Nothing has caused a more rapid and wide-scale change in recent years than COVID-19. Between social distancing and stay-at-home orders, it has been quite a challenge to set up a meeting, let alone organize an event. In many parts of Canada, gatherings of more than 10 people have been prohibited, with events from birthdays to weddings being postponed or cancelled altogether.

As restrictions ease and in-person events are slowly being permitted, event planners and hosts have to acknowledge their new responsibilities of managing events while COVID-19 remains at large. While event planners are no stranger to crisis management and last-minute changes, past issues pale in comparison to event planning during the pandemic. The new normal for event management will involve new and more stringent measures to keep physical gatherings safe.

Here is a rundown of things to keep in mind when planning and executing events amid the pandemic :

Adapt to the Uncertain

Events will require additional preparation and caution moving forward

Without doubt, gatherings and events post-lockdown will have to deal with the uncertainty. As a result, planners and hosts must understand that organizing an event during the current crisis is faced with many difficulties. However, event planning can only embrace these uncertainties moving forward.

To do so, start crafting a preparedness plan. Make this available to your partners and guests. Not only will it assure your attendees that you are taking the new coronavirus threat seriously, but it will also help you be confident in forging ahead.

Other actions you can do to prepare include:

Think Virtual

One of the adjustments for planning events that came out of this pandemic is the growth of virtual options. Zoom, Skype, Facebook, and Google all rolled out updates to meet the skyrocketing demand for remote meetings and online gatherings. In this new normal, planners must consider going virtual if applicable.

Plan the Registration Process

Invite only a minimum number of guests

Getting the information of attendees is a standard operating procedure in event management. However, with the new regulations to meet, it is vital to collect data beyond what is usually asked in registration forms.

You can also have guests sign terms, conditions, and liability waivers to have them agree on and abide by the safety protocols. It will also release you from any liability in the event of any legal trouble.

Select Appropriate Venues

Select a venue that allows you to comply with new safety measures

Choosing the appropriate venue to hold your event entails evaluating various factors.

Implement “New Normal” Protocols

Social distancing in venues must be observed

Event planning with COVID-19 still looming, safety protocols are paramount. The following elements must be considered if attendees will physically be present at the venue:

Seek Feedback

At the end of the event, send out feedback forms or surveys to all your participants, in person or online. This will help you assess how you did, and at the same time, seek valuable perspectives from your guests.

Reaching out to your attendees after could also be useful in contact tracing efforts just in case someone has tested positive following the event.

Have a memorable celebration even during a pandemic

Planning and managing events can already be tough to pull off in normal circumstances, so it will likely be more challenging in the future. Events will require more preparation and caution all throughout. Nevertheless, it is still extremely achievable if done right.

As one of Toronto’s most trusted event planners, elle cuisine is here to help you create a memorable and one-of-a-kind celebration even during this pandemic. Call us today at 647.430.3553.