What’s the Secret Behind Connection?
Connection seems to be the word of the moment in the events industry. I’m reading more and more about how connection has become a top priority for event planners. And when people talk about creating connection, they’re often referring to engagement, networking opportunities, interactive sessions, and shared experiences. I couldn’t agree more. AND . . […]
Nonprofit Events, Part 3: Design the Event Through the Eyes of Your Guest
In Part 1 of this series, we started with the purpose of a nonprofit event: to have fun and create community. In Part 2, we looked at the teamwork required to make that happen. Now comes the next question: How do you actually create that experience for your guests? You look at the event through […]
Nonprofit Events, Part 2: Producing the Fundraiser Is Not a One-Person Job
You’ve been given the job of producing the organization’s annual fundraiser. Suddenly, you are responsible for the venue, catering, rentals, entertainment, invitations, registration, volunteers, timeline, floor plan, décor, auction, program—and the countless details that come with producing an event. But there is another challenge that can be even more difficult: Everyone thinks the event is […]
Nonprofit Events, Part 1: Connection Is Why We Gather
Human beings have always gathered. Long before conference centers, banquet halls, or virtual meetings existed, people gathered around fires, in homes, in marketplaces, and in sacred spaces. We gathered to tell stories, celebrate, exchange ideas, solve problems, laugh, eat together—and to belong. The way we gather has changed enormously, but the fundamental reason has not. […]
How is Jam Making the Same as Designing Events
This summer, I have been teaching canning classes, something I have done for many years. As I was teaching a recent class, I realized how much making jam has in common with designing and planning an event. To make jam, you need the right tools, a proven process, time to prepare—and your full attention. Sound […]
The Real Source of Overwhelm in Business and Event Planning – Part 4
Creating a Trusted System for Your Brain So, what is the solution? One of the most effective ways to reduce overwhelm is surprisingly simple: Create a trusted system. A place where information can live outside your head. Because the truth is, your brain was designed for thinking, creating, and solving problems. It was not designed […]
The Real Source of Overwhelm in Business and Event Planning – Part 3
Decision Fatigue and the Power of Clarity of Intention In Parts 1 and 2 of this series, we explored how overwhelm often begins by holding too much information in our heads and how a lack of structure can make everything feel urgent. The next challenge that follows is decision fatigue. Every day, we make hundreds […]
The Real Source of Overwhelm in Business and Event Planning – Part 2
Why Everything Starts Feeling Like an Emergency In Part 1, we explored how overwhelm often comes from trying to carry too much information in our heads. But there is another reason overwhelm grows so quickly. Without clear systems and structure, everything starts feeling like an emergency. Every email. Every phone call. Every request. Every change. […]
The Real Source of Overwhelm in Business and Event Planning – Part 1
The Hidden Cost of Holding Everything in Your Head Do you ever have that feeling that your mind is carrying far more than it can comfortably hold? A growing to-do list. Unanswered emails. Decisions waiting to be made. Details you don’t want to forget. People needing answers. Deadlines approaching. Whether you’re running a business or […]
Why Event Planners Burn Out — And How to Prevent It
It’s Not Just About Being Busy Event planning is demanding. Long hours, high expectations, and constant coordination are part of the role. But burnout isn’t just about how much you’re doing. It’s about how you’re experiencing what you’re doing. The Weight of Holding Everything Together Event planners are often the central point for everything: Communication […]