Hello and happy Friday - the end of the week for many, unless you are an #Eventprof! Today we are going to explore events from the attendee's perspective. Far more effective than a post-event survey, attending events is one of the best ways to improve your own. It is easy to think like an attendee when you are one! Just slip that notepad into your pocket, and jot down your thoughts and observations as you go. I took this assignment myself, here's my takeaway: 1. Parking - Aff

Hello #EventProfs and #MeetingProfs! It has been a while since I've posted. Why? Because I've been busy working some great events here on the east coast! I haven't forgotten about you, and I look forward to hearing your comments and additions to this list. Here's the goal of this post: To help you get inside the mind of the attendee so you can craft the most rewarding, engaging, and profitable events! 1. Because their boss expects them to 2. To learn something valuable 3. To

In this episode . . . Humorous Happenings, of course! Planning the Flow of the Event Getting the Audience's Attention Optimal Entertainment / Speaker Length We want to hear from you! Tell us your tips, funny stories, and ideas: info@gracieandlacy.com | Facebook | Linkedin Happy Planning! G&L #dinnershow #afterdinnerentertainment #dinnertheatre #gala #socialevents #blacktieevents #eventplanning #eventplanner #meetingplanner #eventprofs #corporatedinner #clientappreciat

Good morning all! I hope you have had your coffee and a doughnut or two. One of my commenters from a previous post (How To Hire The Wrong Entertainment) brought out such a good point, that I felt it important to point out in today's post (Thanks, Bob). The following question can save an event planner, particularly a newer planner, a lot of grief. After all, a planner is often expected to know the ins and outs of the entertainment industry . . . and the hospitality industry .

This article was written by Gracie & Lacy's audio guru, Sallie the Sound Lady - enjoy! As event professionals, we are all too aware that others expect us to be good - no, PERFECT, at just about - no, EVERYTHING AT ALL TIMES. The purpose of this post is not intended to certify you as an audio technician, nor add to your ever-growing list of duties. This crash course should equip you in your audio checks, and will help you at least LOOK like you know what you are doing! Audio i

So you missed one lousy meeting, and your co-workers gave you the leftover task nobody else wanted. You have just learned you are now in charge of booking the upcoming corporate convention entertainment. Sounds easy enough - Google . . . click. Corporate entertainment . . . click. Yikes! Narrow it down . . . let’s see, theme . . . Hollywood click. Town . . . Orlando, FL click. Singers and dancers click. Oh boy, I need some help here. Breathe in, breathe out . . . sound

Don't miss the opportunity to enhance the mood and impact of your events through the power of music. Merge the tips below with my previous article on Lighting and you will have yourself a smashing combination that wins your guests over without a word! You no doubt have some tips of your own to share - I look forward to your comments. The Entrance From the moment your guests step through the door, you want them to be completely immersed in your theme. Lobby music sets the t

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Benjamin Franklin I know Mr. Franklin was not an event planner by trade, however his wisdom carries into every industry. As an event planner you are very familiar with stress.However, if your goal is BURNOUT here are the simple steps: 1. Keep all of your notes in one place Even better. Keep them all stored on the cloud and lose your password right before your event. Don't bother to print a hard-copy - what's life without

13 Showbiz Words Talent Buyers Should Know . . . Don't let entertainers scare you with big technical sounding words. Here's a cheat sheet to keep you savvy! Have any to add to the list? Feel free to post a comment. 1. Tech Rider - A document outlining the technical needs of an entertainer (i.e. sound, lighting, etc.) 2. Backline - This word is used broadly so be sure to ask the band / performer to clarify what they mean by "Backline," and ask them to itemize their expectat

Here are a few easy-to-forget items that should be on every event planner's checklist. The great news is that they are easy to implement using technology such as calendar reminders and smart phone notifications. 1. News It is easy to be so caught up with preparations for an event that you skip reading the morning paper or watching the headlines. It is imperative that you are aware of any local or national emergencies that could impact your event or travel. Read the local h

Why should event planners and meeting planners read this post? To avoid common pitfalls that lead to guest boredom and depletion of future attendance. After many years of being involved in corporate, charitable, and special events we have compiled a list of things that drain the energy of an event and put the audience to sleep. Do you have anything to add? Feel free to post to help others keep their events engaging and memorable. 1. Choose a monotone, soft-spoken emcee "

The Greatest Generation is marked by fabulous Big Bands, Swing Dancing, Patriotism, Fashion, and some of the best loves songs of all time. Golden Era entertainers Gracie & Lacy have compiled some of their favorite tips for planning your Vintage 1940s bash. As your imagination runs wild, we'd love to hear from you! Share your tips, brainstorming, and successes with us at: info@gracieandlacy.com Event Types - 1940s Dinner Dance (Dinner, Dancing) - 1940s Supper Club (Dinner,