7 Keys To Save Money Booking Events Guide
#1 Venues
Regarding venues, look into VFWs, fire halls,
Knights Of Columbus, community centers, etc
These are usually reliably affordable venues, especially in comparison to their more expensive counterparts. Some of these places come pre-decorated, and others come bare. Now this can be a great thing, because you can customize the venue to suit your style and flavor, all while saving massive funds. Another possible venue is the house/backyard of a loved one. Be careful using an outdoor venue though, because you will then be subjected to constant weather changes. Also, be very realistic with your budget. There's no need to spend a large portion of your designated budget on just the venue alone.
#2 Decor
This goes hand in hand with the venue tip. One of the absolute best ways to save on a venue is to find a basic space for gathering and decorate it. This can be done with a singling or combination of lights, flowers, etc
You can also hire a vendor that specifically specializes in decorating event venues.
#3 Food
Food is a big one, and arguably one of the most important things that a significant part of the budget should be set aside for. A great option is to look at some of the restaurants that you and your loved ones already enjoy, especially smaller ones that are not chain restaurants. Many times these places will have specific catering menus that will have exactly what you need where you can pick entrees, sides, desserts, etc. Some of them will even include servers, utensils, and whatever else you may require for a convenient fee.
#4 Music
Music is another big one. Book a DJ and there's no other choice! Haha just kidding. Listen this may surprise you that we're saying this, but there are plenty of options for music. Booking a DJ, a band, or a solo musician are options. When looking for DJs, they must have a few things. A website, footage of them in action, mixes, and reviews to name a few. These things are a must. Of course also, it is understood that some events just don't require a DJ for whatever reason. Perhaps you just want people to gather and talk and catch up in a social setting, or something else. A great option in this case, is if a musician or DJ is not in the budget to rent a sound system and play from Spotify or Youtube. It's recommended to get at least two speakers that are fairly loud and clear, speaker stands to elevate them, and at least one microphone. When going this route make sure to elevate the speakers high so the sound travels. And only choose UHF microphones so they will be more clearly heard and not have to combat with other frequencies. With some thorough research, you can pick up most of the things you'll need on the common shopping outlets, online and offline. Read the reviews and carefully measure your options and you can't go wrong. Shoot, you may even have someone you know already who is musically inclined that may help you select some great options. There are tons of free mixes (actually uploaded by DJs) that can be utilized for this sort of thing. It does go without saying though, at the end of the day nothing beats having a professional in charge of the music, flow, and any announcements that may need to be made as well any curbs or wrenches that may get thrown into the schedule.
#5 Photography
Photography is a biggie as well. Now you can use a family member or friend, but it is recommended to get a professional, however. Another recommendation is to get a content creator, which has been a new trend that has arisen over the past few years. Basically what a content creator does, is they meticulously take photo or video, or a combination of both for whatever time slot you may need them for. One great thing about content creators is they are typically known to be more affordable than other professionals. Not to mention, you typically get your pictures within a mere few days (as opposed to months).
#6 Attire
This goes for the any type of formal wear that will be utilized for any general event. Whether it's corporate attire, birthday girl's dress, the groomsmen suits, the son's mitzvah, etc. Don't let high end retailers be your first choice when it comes to shopping for these items. There are a ton of other better options where you will get best bang for your buck. Facebook groups, thrift shops, family members, and popular online retailers are just to name a few. Be sure to read reviews and go only with the sellers that have good reviews, as well as some type of selling history. One other thing I might add, is with the popular online retailers you can always order something in advance, try it on and if it doesn't fit you or it's just not to your liking, you can easily send it back.
#7 Event Planning
Now there are few DJ companies that encompass all around event planning services like us, which can potentially save you a ton of money, stress, and headache with all of the moving parts that come from planning events. Typically, these companies don't charge that much of an extra fee (if any) at all. However, you can also function as your own event planner. Now we will caution you that it can be a lot of work, and time investment but it can definitely be done. Best way to go about doing this is to make a large list (written and digital) of all the things that you need or want for your event. Make the list in a category formation. Planning a party narrows down to several key things that include venue booking, picking a theme, sorting a budget, food and drink, decor, vendors, and many others. You can also hire an event planner. This part of the budget can be better served in other areas, but it really all comes down to personal preference. If an event planner is a must, just like all other vendors, be sure to diligently do your homework on them.
Now it arguably goes without saying, easily the 3 most important things when it comes to throwing ANY event of ANY capacity are good music, good food, and good pictures.
And that's it! Thanks for reading, hope this was helpful. Stick around. I've got a lot more cool stuff in store for you. And within the next several months, I, Kevin Sounds the owner will be launching a live Q & A where you can come, ask your questions, address your concerns, and get real time feedback LIVE. Stay tuned.