In the last 2 weeks, I’ve been really reminded of the misconceptions that many people have about event planners. So, I decided to go Mythbusters on you and give you the skinny on one of the most prevalent myths of our industry…
Myth: The life of an event planner must be so glamourous!
Status: Busted!
Contrary to popular belief, an event planner does not go to parties 24/7 (unless she is working), does not hobnob with the rich and famous (unless she is working) and does not get free swag all the time (unless she is lucky). The life of an event planner is hard. 8 hour days are unheard of – the norm is more like 12-15++. You are standing for the majority of it, most times you won’t have had anything to eat or drink and it’s constant, constant work. An event planner needs to make sure the food and beverage is going out in a timely fashion, the entertainment is cued up and ready to go, all vendors are doing their jobs and most of all that the client is happy.
Sometimes, an event planner may even be on the periphery of the actual event (especially if they’re acting in a support role). They may be standing outside, in all types of weather, advancing and dispatching coaches, dealing with unruly guests… heck, I even spent 3 hours recently standing in a garage parking lot jumping on an air hose so that guests can access their car without getting locked out. Glamourous? I think not.
And, when you’re not working an event, a lot of time is spent at your desk calling suppliers, drawing floor plans, making up production schedules or even simply cold calling to drum up business.
The reality of event planning is that you do it because you love it. You love the thrill and adrenaline rush of pulling off a successful event and seeing your client beaming with joy. You love the creativity this job allows as there really is no limit to what you can do. And every so often, you’ll get a moment where everything is perfect and it really will be glamourous. (Case in point, the photo below from the Times of India Film Awards in Vancouver).
At the end of the day, I love what I do and wouldn’t have it any other way.
Do you agree? What other myths do you think need to be busted or confirmed about the event industry?
Priscilla Chan 