I hope your family is staying healthy! I'm happy to report that we've been a part of several successful events in recent weeks, as safe gatherings are beginning to resume. Planning an event during this time can certainly be a challenge, balancing any potential health concerns with a gathering, knowing the guidance and health data changes virtually weekly. I've had many clients reach out with questions about planning their event in the next several months.
Here are a few thoughts and suggestions to consider as your event nears:
First, know that events ARE taking place! - There is no current government restriction that prevents events of fewer than 300 guests from taking place, including with a dance floor. Social distancing measures should be in place to ensure the safety of all guests.
Have a backup venue in mind - We are finding that some venues are remaining closed for events or gatherings by their choice. It is a good idea to begin a conversation with your venue to ensure they will still accommodate your event, and, if not, begin to explore backup options.
Wait as long as possible to make decisions - The uncertainty can be stressful, so understandably there is a desire to take action. We have seen how quickly guidance can change, so I encourage clients to wait until as long as possible to make decisions regarding cancelling or rescheduling. Understand your vendor cancellation policies and know important dates involved with making changes. There is often no benefit to making changes before key dates in your cancellation policies.
Making the tough choice to cancel - If you are considering making the tough choice to cancel your event, we can work within the parameters of your contract's cancellation policy to hopefully enable you to utilize the deposit you have placed with us.
What if there is another shutdown? - If the government would impose new orders that would prohibit events from taking place (the re-closing of banquet facilities, for example), any event impacted during the time of that order would be given special consideration with regards to rescheduling and cancelling.
What considerations should I have for my 2021 or 2022 event? - If you are planning an event for 2021 or 2022 and have not yet reserved your date, availability beyond 2020 is becoming increasingly limited as 2020 events are being rescheduled into 2021 and 2022. This is resulting in a more limited supply of dates for events that would normally take place during that time.
As always, feel free to reach out if you have any questions! I am always happy to help!
Mazel tov and I'll see you soon!
