# Event Planning Master Checklist

Planning an event can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into clear phases makes it manageable and ensures nothing falls through the cracks. This master checklist walks you through every critical step—from concept to post‑event wrap‑up—so you can deliver a seamless, memorable experience.

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## 1️⃣ Concept & Strategy  
*Define the vision, goals, and logistics foundation.*

- [ ] Set clear event objectives (e.g., brand awareness, lead generation, fundraising)  
- [ ] Identify target audience personas and expected attendance numbers  
- [ ] Choose a date (consider holidays, industry events, and venue availability)  
- [ ] Draft a preliminary budget with line items for venue, catering, tech, marketing, and contingency  
- [ ] Select a theme or branding concept and create a mood board  
- [ ] Secure a project sponsor or steering committee and schedule weekly check‑ins  
- [ ] Conduct a risk assessment (weather, permits, insurance needs)  
- [ ] Research and shortlist 3–5 potential venues that match capacity and vibe  
> 💡 Use a simple spreadsheet to compare venues side‑by‑side on cost, amenities, and restrictions.  

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## 2️⃣ Venue & Vendor Management  
*Lock in the location and essential service providers.*

- [ ] Visit top venue choices, take photos, and verify accessibility and parking  
- [ ] Negotiate contract terms, cancellation policy, and payment schedule; obtain signed agreement  
- [ ] Book catering (menu tasting, dietary options, beverage service)  
- [ ] Hire AV/production crew (sound, lighting, live streaming) and confirm equipment list  
- [ ] Secure décor, furniture, and signage vendors (if not included with venue)  
- [ ] Arrange transportation and parking logistics (shuttle service, valet, rideshare zones)  
- [ ] Obtain necessary permits/licenses (alcohol, noise, street closure)  
- [ ] Purchase event insurance covering liability, cancellation, and equipment loss  
> 💡 Create a vendor contact sheet with primary/backup contacts, delivery times, and on‑site responsibilities.  

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## 3️⃣ Marketing & Promotion  
*Drive awareness and registrations.*

- [ ] Build an event website or landing page with agenda, speakers, and ticketing integration  
- [ ] Set up online ticketing platform; configure early‑bird, group, and promo codes  
- [ ] Design a branding kit (logo, color palette, fonts) for all communications  
- [ ] Draft a 12‑week content calendar (email blasts, social posts, blog articles)  
- [ ] Launch paid advertising (social, search, retargeting) with UTM tracking  
- [ ] Reach out to media partners and influencers for coverage or co‑promotion  
- [ ] Create press release and distribute to relevant outlets  
- [ ] Set up an RSVP tracking dashboard to monitor registrations and no‑shows  
> 💡 Use a QR code on printed materials that links directly to the registration page for on‑site sign‑ups.  

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## 4️⃣ Program & Content Development  
*Craft the agenda, speakers, and attendee experience.*

- [ ] Draft a detailed run‑of‑show with timings for each session, break, and transition  
- [ ] Identify and confirm keynote speakers, panelists, and moderators  
- [ ] Send speaker briefs (topic guidelines, slide specs, bio format, travel logistics)  
- [ ] Collect speaker presentations and run a technical rehearsal (dry run)  
- [ ] Arrange for live translation or captioning if needed  
- [ ] Plan interactive elements (polls, Q&A, networking games, swag stations)  
- [ ] Create signage and directional graphics for each zone (registration, stages, restrooms)  
- [ ] Prepare attendee kits (badge, agenda, swag, safety info)  
> 💡 Schedule a “walk‑through” with the AV team 48 hours before the event to verify cue points.  

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## 5️⃣ Operations & On‑Site Execution  
*Ensure flawless delivery on the day(s).*

- [ ] Develop a master day‑of timeline with staff call‑outs and vendor arrival windows  
- [ ] Assign roles and distribute a contact list (stage manager, registration lead, tech support)  
- [ ] Set up registration/check‑in system (badge printer, QR scanner, staff training)  
- [ ] Conduct a final venue walk‑through to confirm layout, power outlets, Wi‑Fi, and emergency exits  
- [ ] Test all AV equipment, lighting cues, and livestream connections  
- [ ] Place signage, wayfinding, and branding elements according to floor plan  
- [ ] Stock a “command center” with spare cables, batteries, first‑aid kit, and contact cards  
- [ ] Monitor crowd flow, wait times, and attendee feedback in real time (use a mobile app or walkie‑talkies)  
> 💡 Have a backup power source (UPS) for critical devices like laptops and streaming gear.  

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## 6️⃣ Post‑Event Wrap‑Up  
*Capture insights, settle finances, and nurture relationships.*

- [ ] Send thank‑you emails to speakers, sponsors, vendors, and attendees (include post‑event survey)  
- [ ] Export and analyze registration data, attendance rates, and engagement metrics  
- [ ] Conduct a debrief meeting with the planning team to discuss what worked and what didn’t  
- [ ] Reconcile all invoices; ensure final payments and retain receipts for accounting  
- [ ] Deliver sponsor deliverables (report, logo placement screenshots, attendee list)  
- [ ] Upload session recordings, photos, and highlight reels to a shared drive or cloud library  
- [ ] Update the event website with post‑event content and a “stay tuned” teaser for next year  
- [ ] Archive all contracts, permits, and planning documents for future reference  
> 💡 Store the final checklist and lessons‑learned document in a dedicated “Event Archive” folder for easy retrieval.  

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## How to use this checklist  
1. **Print or duplicate** the list in a project‑management tool (Asana, Trello, Notion).  
2. **Assign owners** to each bullet point and set realistic due dates aligned with your event timeline.  
3. **Check off items** as they’re completed; use the “💡” tips for quick best‑practice reminders.  
4. **Review weekly** during planning meetings to keep the project on track and adjust deadlines as needed.  
5. **Customize** sections to fit the size and type of your event—add or remove items, but keep the overall flow from concept to post‑event.  

Happy planning! 🎉