Top 10 Event Planning Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Planning an event is like walking a tightrope – you need balance, focus and a dash of creativity. Whether you planning a dreamy wedding or a party for family and friends, even the best-laid plans can go downhill. At Tables and More, we’ve seen it all, which is why we are here to navigate the minefield of event planning pitfalls. Avoid these 10 event planning mistakes and make sure your party or wedding is the talk of the town for all the right reasons!
1. Ignoring the guest list
Your guest list is the backbone of your event. Over-invite and you’ll risk overcrowding; under-invite and your party could feel more like a quiet night in. Always confirm your RSVPs in advance and plan for a few unexpected guests. Make sure you have enough seating, food and drink – it’s better to have too much, than too little and risk guests being uncomfortable.
2. Forgetting the weather
Another one of the many common event planning mistakes we see all the time is not having a weather plan. Living in the UK and planning a great event can be hard. Even in the peak of summer the weather can have second thoughts and start pouring with rain. An outdoor event without a backup plan could leave your guests drenched and the event a disaster. Consider hiring a marquee or gazebo just in case the weather takes a turn for the worst. If your party is in winter, consider hiring outdoor heaters to keep everyone comfortable.
3. Overcomplicating the theme
Themes can add flair to your event, but too much of a good thing can overwhelm your guests. Stick to a simple, cohesive theme that resonates with the occasion and season. Whether you’re going for a rustic charm or modern elegance, our wide range of furniture will seamlessly fit into your vision.
4. Skimping on seating
The quickest way to turn an event into a disaster? Not enough seating. I’m sure we’ve all been at an event where we’ve seen guests awkwardly standing, or worse, leaving early due to lack of seating. Make sure you have ample seating that’s both functional and stylish. At Tables and More, we have options that cater to all tastes and event sizes.
5. Neglecting the timeline
An event without a timeline is like a ship without a compass. Without a clear schedule, your event could easily run off course. From the arrival of the first guest to the last dance, plan each moment meticulously. Renting furniture from hire companies means you can focus on the finer details while we handle delivery and setup.
6. Underestimating the budget
We all want the perfect event, but it’s easy to get carried away and blow the budget. When budgeting for your event, be sure to prioritize the essentials first. This includes the venue, catering and furniture. After this, you can allocate the remaining budget to extras like entertainment and décor.
7. Choosing style over comfort
Sure, that avant-garde chair looks stunning, but will your guests be comfortable sitting in it for hours? When choosing the right furniture, you need to consider the comfort as well as the looks, as uncomfortable guests can quickly lead to a failed event. Try considering something like our Limewash Chiavari or Oak Cross-back that combines both comfort with aesthetics.
8. DIYing too much
DIY projects can add a personal touch, and when done correctly can be fantastic. However, taking on too much on short schedules can lead to stress and burnout. Focus on a few elements in which you can perfect your DIY and leave the rest to professionals. This can save you a lot of stress and ultimately contribute to a seamless event.
9. Ignoring accessibility
Ensure that your event is accessible to all guests, including those with disabilities or special needs. This could mean arranging for ramps, accessible bathrooms or seating that accommodates everyone. Know your guests and really plan the fine details to ensure everyone can enjoy your event as much as each other. This will lead to lasting impressions being left for everyone.
10. Overlooking the little details
Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest impact. Don’t overlook little details like lighting, table setting and the flow of the event space. These small details can sometimes not even cross your mind, but when done correctly can transform your event. At Tables and More, we don’t just offer tables and chairs, but also a range of accessories to add that final touch of perfection!
Planning an event doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding these common event planning mistakes, you can create a memorable experience for your guests—and yourself. At Tables and More, we’re here to make your event planning process as smooth as possible. From weddings to small parties in Somerset, our furniture hire services will help you turn your vision into reality.
Ready to plan your perfect event? Contact us today to learn more about our wide range of furniture hire options!
