Be a Rockstar Event Planner — Even Under Mercury Retrograde!

Because your job isn’t challenging enough, right?!? From March 6 through March 28, the planet of communication, Mercury, will go retrograde, upping the chances for mix ups, technological glitches and communication snafus. But you’ll still shine – just use these tips to make your events as stellar as ever, even under Mercury Retrograde!

  1. GIVE YOURSELF WIGGLE ROOM IN YOUR BUDGET
    Under Mercury Retrograde, “expect the unexpected” including expenses that may be required for you to save the day and ensure success!

  2. VISIT FACILITIES OR REQUEST VIDEO
    Check and double check your clients’ requirements against each venue’s capabilities! Ensure room capacity, confirm ramps/elevators, podiums, stage, special equipment, enough tables and chairs for guests etc. Take nothing for granted under Mercury Retrograde! Additionally, if you can hold the event where you’ve held one before, it’s likely to go more smoothly. (All things done previously are favored under the retrograde.) Also, since Mercury Retrograde can make electronics glitchy, ensure vendors have backups; it doesn’t hurt to inquire about “what if” scenarios.

  3. GET CRYSTAL CLEAR WITH EVERYONE
    You probably do this, but it’s even more important under Mercury Retrograde. When collaborating with clients, vendors, etc., create follow-up emails to ensure that nothing is being misunderstood. Lists are an event planner’s best friend and over-communicating isn’t a bad idea. 

  4. CONFIRM WITH VENDORS AND HAVE BACKUP VENDOR OPTIONS
    Communicate your needs clearly with vendors, and be anal retentive in confirming dates and times. Since traffic can be bad under Mercury Retrograde, perhaps make vendor start-times earlier for buffer. It doesn’t hurt to have backup vendor options in your back pocket in case someone falls through. 

  5. KEEP CALM
    An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! By instilling mindfulness practices in your day-to-day, like hot baths, meditation, and exercise, you can maintain your equanimity no matter what. Even better, you can work any situation to your advantage when you’re in a state of grace. Remember, the more secure you are, the more secure you can make your client. If feeling supported means recruiting extra help — someone who can act as a second pair of eyes on your event plans, for instance — go for it! Your peace of mind is priceless!

    To learn more about having Joshua at your event, visit his events page or contact him today.

Joshua MacGuire1 Comment