How to Plan an Event

by Jim Griffith (2004)

1. Is the event doable for us and for the people we are inviting? Will it last too long? Is it too far away? Is it too much for us to do?
2. Most people come to events, because it's within reach and their comfort zone: e.g., their neighborhood, at a location where they feel comfortable and could leave when they want.
3. If young families in your area, plan events where the main draw is for children; they bring their parents.
4. What will make the event doable? Break events down into smaller bites.
5. Always have a "what's next?" Plan events several months out so that at each event you can tell the guests about the next one.
6. Adult parties need good bait. Have a theme or idea that will make people want to come i.e. New Year's Day Party, Super Bowl Party, etc.
7. People only attend out of relationships. Invite the people you already know. Have them ride with you, share a baby-sitter etc.
8. Small events have a higher rate of return. They are more personal and help build relationships. Invite people over for dinner and invite another launch team couple to attend as well.
9. When people arrive they look to see who else is involved. Their main question is "Are these people normal?" Act normal. Do normal things that normal people do. Be yourself.
10. After events, follow up with the people who seemed interested or with whom you connected. Devise a system for follow up and work in teams. Be intentional and systematic-use a database to keep track of everyone.