Event planning in the third sector

Children in Scotland Learning & Events Officer Monica Sellers tells us about their upcoming event

Event planning, in the best of ways, is a puzzle with ever shrinking pieces. Each element you identify that needs an answer breaks into smaller and smaller parts, each holding their own unique needs.

 It can become daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are some tips and tricks for planning your next event. 

• Write out your goals for the event andcheck each decision against those goals. This keeps you on the track to success and ensures a cohesive event. 
• Break planning down into manageable chunks– what is the shape of your event? When does it start? How many speakers do you have? Breakout rooms? Lunch? … Then figure out what needs to happen before, during, and after each element. Not sure where to start? Check out my event planning template in our resources library.
• Budgeting: we all know money is the big question in the third sector. Where can we find concessions, or sponsors, to support the work we’re doing? Does a partner organisation have a venue? Can you trade training for tea & coffee? But most importantly spend what money you do have smartly to ensure the right impact for your event. 
• Get input from your stakeholders! This should include children and young people.If you don’t have your own advisory group, start by reading through the Children & Young People’s Evidence Bank.  
• Join me as I share two decades of events experience and expertise. Members can register for free, everyone else can register for only £25.