Event planning is a high-pressure industry, filled with intense deadlines, complex scheduling, and a constant stream of communication. With so much action and activity, it's no wonder that planners struggle to keep their feet on the ground. But what happens when the event is over? When it's time to return to the "real world"? This process is what experts have dubbed "Re-entry," and it's a critical moment for event planners. If managed poorly, it can lead to post-program blues, burnout, and even a loss of motivation. That's why it's essential to learn how to survive the ups and downs of the event planning cycle. In this blog, we'll explore how to manage re-entry, pace yourself back into a normal routine, and make the most of your post-event time.

1. Manage the re-entry: The first step in surviving the ups and downs of event planning is to manage the re-entry process. If you've been working non-stop on an event, returning to normal life can feel strange and overwhelming. To combat this, you need to pre-block your schedule prior to departure, so you have enough time to readjust. Additionally, once you've returned, it's essential to manage your time effectively. Take stock of your workload and prioritize what needs to be done. Make sure to tackle your most urgent tasks first, then gradually work through your to-do list.

2. Pace yourself back into a normal routine: Another key strategy for managing re-entry is to pace yourself back into a normal routine. You're not going to be able to jump straight back into your regular work schedule immediately after returning from an event. Instead, try to ease yourself back in gradually. Pick a few low-stakes tasks to start with, and build up from there. Also, look to your friends and family to help facilitate the transition back to daily life. They can provide emotional support and practical help as you readjust.

3. Clean out your email inbox: Before you left for the event, you probably let emails pile up in your inbox, only responding to the most crucial and time-sensitive messages. Now that you're back, it's time to clean out your inbox fully. Set aside some time during your first few days back to work and reply to any other important emails, so you're not playing catch-up.

4. Send thank-you notes: No event planner is an island. Most planners work with colleagues and team members who help produce a successful event. Make sure to send thank-you notes to these people in your team. Take the time to let them know how much their contributions meant to you. And if you can, throw a little gratitude their way with small gifts or other tokens of appreciation.

5. Take a few days off: Finally, it's crucial to remember that you're a human being, not a machine. After an event, it's okay to take some time off, focus on yourself, and recharge. Turn off your phone, shut down your computer, and take a break. Go for a walk, spend time with your family, or do something you enjoy. You'll return to work feeling refreshed and ready to tackle your next challenge.

Conclusion:
Successfully managing re-entry is a vital part of surviving the ups and downs of the event planning cycle. By pacing yourself back into a normal routine, managing your time effectively, and taking care of your mental health, you can avoid burnout and post-program blues. Remember to take the time to clean out your inbox, send thank-you notes, and take a few days off to recharge. By following these simple strategies, you'll be able to strike a balance between your work and personal life, and thrive in the event planning industry.

How do you effectively engage attendees for your event? It’s time to think differently about participant communication. According to Eventbrite many participants believe attending live events and experiences make them more connected to other people, the community, and the world. But how can you empower that sense of connection this year? You can create some special moments that make your participants connect, celebrate and inspire with their work and friends. 

Many of us know how important is to participate in informal networking because they can give work and career advantages with hidden insights. We can think of informal networking is good-to-have? These informal networks are increasing popular in our business today because they have a major impact on business effectiveness. For example, engaging participants to informal networking in a well organised cooking event often open up the hidden informal networks to share insights and resources that could help you and your team member better with their job and career.

Your team is doing a great job to achieve sales or completing an important project. You seem to be too busy with your work and often we don’t give thanks nearly enough: Many employees quit because they didn’t feel appreciated. And ignoring this important gesture may do some harm for the business and relationship so to give thanks to those that we lean on every day in the workplace.

During a time where the end of the year is fast approaching, employees rush to get projects completed, and planning for next year has already begun, it's important to take a step back and give thanks to your team. Here are a few ways you can show your team some love and appreciation this holiday season.

Check out the secret to better work here

Birthdays come once a year, which means a celebratory activity is considered to make the day more enjoyable.  But, over time the means of celebrating may end up becoming too repetitive if an idea is overused. Try something new for a loved one by planning a unique surprise mystery dinner and cooking experience that they will never forget!

Hosting a surprise party may seem a bit tricky at first, but don’t get discouraged. The surprise and reaction of your loved one will make the process well worth it. While planning the event, keep in mind that arranging a surprise party is just the same as organising a birthday party except there is some element of surprise or reveal at the beginning.

The Guide To a Canapé Party

Best party food ideas come in small. The popularity of canapés and bowl food trending in private parties and corporate events. These exquisite bites don’t just look good and taste delicious. Choosing Asian finger foods or making canapé  would not only solve issues with small space but also allows your guests to really enjoy the party. Guest can walk around and interact with each other, while canapés are being passed around on trays and platters by waiting staff. The best thing is that you can offer small or large selection of food compare to a formal sit down meal, so you can be assured that your guests are happy. 

The Guide To a Canapé Party

HOW MANY PIECES OF CANAPE TO MAKE OR TO ORDER FOR A PARTY

People often ask this question then wonder how much would be enough. It is commonsense on a party you are having. Best to know how long want the party to last and whether your guests come on time. It is best for 7-9 savoury and 2-3 sweet canapés per person for a standard 3-4 hour party where no other food is served. Each piece should be good for one or two bites.

If the party food is served pre and post a main sit down dinner then we would recommend for 3-4 pieces per person. This gives the guests a chance to kick off their appetite but this amount won’t be enough before the main meal. After work functions, it would be best to serve 4-6 pieces as people tend to be bit hungry. It is always a good things to have some extra food in case your guests are very hungry. You or your staff will need to control the quantities and will slow down the service if needed.

WHAT FINGER FOODS TO SELECT FOR A PARTY

Quite often party organiser are keen to know who would be in the functions so they can cater to the mass. If you don't know well who is coming then It is best to choose a selection of canapé and ways to make them so you would please everyone. Popular items would be rice paper rolls, spring rolls, dumpling, sushi, tomato and mozzarella skewers, cocktail sausage, fish cake or vegetable tarts or even burgers and salmon blinis... The options are your choice however try to mix beef, chicken, fish, prawn, vegan and gluten free, dairy food and fodmap and other common dietary restrictions so you will make everyone happy. Most caterer or our chef would be able to help you to choose the menu.

SERVING CANAPE

You would need to decide whether you want to set up as in a station or have someone flow around to serve the foods. If you buy your finger foods from supermarket then you would need to find a solution of trays and utensils to serve the food out of the packaging. Catering companies like us would have these foods in the tray and even have staff to serve them for you. Please note the size and shape of the tray is important if you have limited spaces as it would be difficult to walk around for you and catering staff. Lastly think of user friendly finger foods items - sushi might not be easy to eat as it can get quite messy in a party.

MATCHING WINE WITH YOUR PARTY

We found the best wines are the ones that most your guests can enjoy. These wines are easy to drink, mainstream and non obtrusive. Choose a sparkling wine, decent soft red such as pinot, sauvignon blanc or rose. We think beverage selection should be palate cleansing properties and food compatibility. You can add on one or two easy cocktails if you have a caterer in or let the guests make cocktail themselves too.

CONSIDER MOBILE BAR HIRE 

To enhance your canapé party, consider adding a mobile bar. Mobile bar hire can elevate your event by providing a variety of beverages that complement your canapés and create a more enjoyable experience for your guests. 

Firstly, when opting for mobile bar hire, you can curate a beverage menu that caters to your guests' preferences. You can include spirits, mixers, craft beers, mocktails, soft drinks, and water to ensure something for everyone. 

Secondly, mobile bar hire typically comes with experienced bartenders who can craft custom cocktails and ensure smooth drink service throughout the event. They can even assist guests in making their drinks if you include a DIY cocktail station. 

Additionally, consider creating a signature cocktail for your canapé party that complements the overall theme or flavor profile of your canapés. This unique touch can add an extra layer of memorability to your event. 

Furthermore, the mobile bar's setup is crucial to your party's flow. Ensure it's strategically placed so guests can access drinks easily without causing congestion. Don't forget to be aware of local licensing requirements for serving alcohol at your event. Reputable mobile bar hire services often handle these legalities, but it's wise to double-check to avoid any last-minute hiccups.