5 things to consider before planning an event

Companies and organisations throw events all the time. Whether it’s a meeting with employees or a product launch for the press, events come with the territory of promoting a brand. But why exactly are these events held? Do they serve a clear purpose? Here are five things to consider before you start ordering the caterer.

7 non-negotiables for a successful event

When it comes to hosting an event, there are certain things you have to do in order to ensure its success. These are things that are absolutely non-negotiable. Read on to find out the top seven things you have to keep in mind.

1. Objective
You need to have a clear idea of why you are having the event and who the target audience. That way you can measure the return on your investment. Without these objectives you will not know how to measure the success or failure of your event.

2. Content
The content of your event needs to be of value to your target audience. Always ensure your target audience is at the forefront when deciding what content to include.

3. Event marketing
Whether it’s the invitation you send to the guestlist or the full online marketing campaign you use to spread the word, marketing your event is a must and is the only way to ensure people know the event is happening. A good event management company will be able to assist you in coordinating and strategising an appropriate marketing plan.

4. Catering
Every event needs some sort of refreshments. Even if it’s a one hour meeting in a boardroom, attendees should always be offered some sort of beverage or snack. Chat to your event manager about what sort of catering is appropriate for your event. It also depends on the type of event when deciding whether to foot the bill or not.

5. Entertainment
Usually the event’s entertainment is the main attraction, but sometimes this isn’t the case. Regardless of what type of event you are hosting, there needs to be some sort of entertainment to keep guests amused. Again this is something your event manager can advise on.

6. Audio/visual equipment
And a spare set of this equipment as well. All events will need some sort of tech to run smoothly, but inevitably these things break at the last minute. Ensure you have access to spare equipment on the day.

7. A project/event manager
Every event needs someone to coordinate and manage the event on the day. Sometimes more than one is necessary. Enlist the services of a professional events company and they will manage everything for you. Avoid managing the event yourself, as you will need to be free to take part in the event, meet people and mingle.
Looking for a professional events company in South Africa? Fizz Marketing can assist you with every aspect of your event, from the marketing and conceptualising, right up to the very end of your event. Ensure it’s a successful one by getting the right people on your side. Contact us today!

5 reasons why you need a professional event manager

We lead very busy lives, both at home and in our jobs. So when your company decides to host an event, it makes sense to hire professionals come in and do the job right. You may think it will save you a buck to rather do everything yourself - how hard can it be? Here are five reasons why getting professional event managers is the only way to go.

1. You need to focus on your job
Event management is a job all on its own. Taking on that responsibility on top of your day job will just mean doing double the amount of work each day, and one of those jobs is going to suffer as a result. Do what you do best.

2. Event management is a stressful job
Event managers rank in the top 10 most stressful jobs, right up there with fire fighters and police officers. This means that it really isn't something one can just jump into should the need arise. Event managers handle a lot of stress and still get results, so they are your best bet.

3. Time is money
The old saying is true, so spending precious time on managing your own events takes away from time spent on your own company. Event managers have the experience to handle everything from coordinating the event, to managing caterers, decor and marketing.

4. Event managers have the right contacts
The types of contacts that are invaluable for hosting the perfect event don't just land in your address book over night. Event managers spend months, if not years, building up relationships with venues and other service providers to ensure a smooth event and great service from start to finish.

5. Your event speaks volumes about your business
An event that is poorly run spells a PR disaster for the hosting company. By hiring professionals to run your event, you are putting the image of your company into professional, experienced hands. It may cost a bit extra, but it will be more than worth it in the long run.

Looking for professional event managers in South Africa? Fizz Marketing have been in the game for more than 15 years and has a dynamic, dedicated team. Contact us to find out more info today.

5 tips for keeping your guests warm

It’s winter here in South Africa and although the days are only a bit chilly, the nights are quite cold indeed. Events don’t stop just because of the weather. But how do you ensure your guests stay warm and comfortable during the winter months? Here are five tips.

{INFOGRAPHIC} New tech at events