In appreciation of your interest in Five Star Events, we would like to share with you some event planning tips and advice.

What Makes An Event Memorable?

There are many things that make an event memorable. When we plan events, we try to focus on the event through the guests' eyes. Our event schedule, ambiance, entertainment, food selection and decorations are geared around those thoughts. If we want them to walk away energized, then the event mood, sound, taste and intinerary will reflect that purpose. If we want them to walk away relaxed, then another whole set of food, entertainment and schedule is set. We suggest you visualize your guests leaving the event. How do they feel? What are their comments? What do you see them doing? What expressions do they have on their faces? What did they like best about the event? If you spend some time thinking about these details, then you can plan and create a memorable event for your guests. Visualize, listen, taste and feel the event for your guests and they'll walk away always remembering it.

How do I go about finding the right photographer for my wedding?

There are many reputable photographers doing business today. You can find listings of photographers in your city's yellow pages, in local chamber of commerce listings and most importantly from personal references. Check with friends, business associates and family to see who they've hired for weddings. Once you have a few names, you should schedule an appointment to visit their studio. One of the most important things to consider in finding the right photographer for your wedding is to see their work. Ask for photographs of both day and night, and garden and church weddings. Some photographers are better with natural light, others are better with articifical light. Keep notes on what you notice. Also notice if the photographer's portfolio shows mostly formal shots or candid shots. Your personal taste in the type of photos you want for your wedding will help determine which photographer matches your vision and style. When reviewing a photographer's wedding packages, make sure they discusses the amount of time the photographer is available on the day of the wedding, how many rolls of film he'll take, whether or not you get copies of all pictures, the price of wedding albums, who keeps the negatives, and the cost of reprints. A reputable photographer should be able to outline these costs for you.

Should I have a back-up plan for my outside event?

Outside events are usually some of the most unique and visual events someone can plan. When the weather is perfect and the conditions just right, outside events are spectacular. Unfortunately, the weather can be unpredictable. Experienced event planners always suggest to their clients to prepare a bad weather plan. If you are hosting an event at a restaurant or banquet facility, make sure you can move your event inside if you need too. Another option is to rent a tent to ensure the weather conditions can't effect your event. Consider having a "rain date" selected as another back-up plan possibility. Remember the best laid plans can be spoiled but foresight can minimize the effects of unexpected conditions.

Why do I need an event coordinator to help me with my event?

An event planner is an experienced professional whose main responsibility is to assist a client in the planning and organization of the event. An event planning professional is usually hired because their clients don't have the time to plan the event, don't have staff or assistance to help them, or don't know what to do when planning an event. Event planners are valuable resources. Event planners keep their clients organized, offer advice, manage and coordinate intricate details, and save their clients time and money.

When should I start planning my event?

As any successful event planner knows, it is never too early to start planning. Start thinking about your event early. Usually six to nine months prior to the event is enough time to prepare -- especially if you plan on using vendors. The earlier you begin planning the more options you have in selecting the location, caterer or entertainment you want, especially if it is a busy time of year (graduation, holiday season, or summer). Also by planning early and sending invitations out on time, the better chance of having more people attend your event. Advance planning also gives you more time to enjoy your event.

What's the best tool for planning an event?

An event planning timeline is a perfect tool to use when planning an event. A timeline is basically a "To Do" list with dates. It helps you organize your event on paper. Once you fill the timeline with tasks and deadline dates, it is much easier to coordinate your party. Party planning details can be overwhelming at times, but listing all the tasks on paper eliminates the worry of forgetting a task. They are easy to compile and easy to follow. Just start with the event date and work backward in time. List information such as your invitation mailing date, RSVP deadline, vendor deposit/payment dates, order dates, etc. Try using one when you're planning your next party and you will feel more organized.

Why do I need to check vendor references?

Worst case event scenarios occur when the caterer, florist, musician, photographer you hire doesn't show up, leaves early, or doesn't deliver what was promised. Everyone has heard of vendors hired to offer a service or product who don't fulfill their promise. The quality of your event hinges on the quality of the vendors you hire. They can make or break your event. Before checking the yellow pages, ask family and friends for names of vendors that they have used in the past. When contacting a vendor, have a list of questions prepared. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask for references. Make sure you feel comfortable with the way they answer your questions. A quality vendor should be courteous, forthcoming, and enthusiastic about your event.