The dramatic increase in the number of corporate events and private parties has created a need for more event planners. Many companies are now considering hiring an experienced professional event planner to plan their events.
However, the most common misunderstanding is that there is a difference between an event planner who is a full-time corporate employee and an independent, freelance event planner. Are they really different? Let’s find out.
Who Do You Need in Event Planning?
When you run a search for a corporate event venue and event planner, two types of professionals will pop up. The first type is an independent contractor or freelance event planner. The second type is a professional event planner who is employed by a corporation, hotel or catering company.
The key difference between the two types is that independent contractors work for themselves, whereas professional event planners work for a company.
There are pros and cons to both choices. It depends on your needs as to which type of event planner you should hire.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Professional Event Planner
Hiring a professional event planner for your corporate event can be a great way to ensure that your special occasion goes off without a hitch. Here are key notes on why a professional event planner for your corporate events is better compared to a freelance event planner.
• Experience and skills
A professional event planner has experience in planning events and will know how to handle everything from setup and takedown to catering and entertainment. With the years and knowledge they gain, professional event planners have experienced different situations that they can handle with a fitting solution. The skills they have are backed up with certifications and awards.
• Industry know-how and wide connections
Professional event planners can recommend vendors who are reliable and affordable, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden costs. Because they’ve been in the events industry for quite some time, they are familiar with the ins and outs of how events planning, execution to closing.
Professional event planners can have a few drawbacks, too.
• Costly
Hiring professional event planners can be costly. This may not be an issue if you have lots of money to spend, but it’s something you should keep in mind if you’re on a budget. The reason why they are costly is that they can provide time-saving planning and execution. Plus, they have the experience and skills to pull off a highly successful event.
• Professional but could be of poor quality
Just because an event planner is professional, it doesn’t mean they are good at what they do. Some are just in it for the money and will not put in the extra effort to make sure your event is a success. Therefore, it’s important to research event planners before hiring one.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Freelance Event Planner
A freelance event planner can provide a few benefits for corporate clients.
• Cost-effective solution
A freelance event planner can be a cost-effective solution for your events compared with professional event planners. The latter often have a large team that they need to manage and coordinate. This can result in higher costs for your company.
• Flexible schedule
A freelance event planner can often work around your schedule and meet your deadlines.
• Access to resources
A freelance event planner has access to resources that you may not have. This includes contacts, vendors and suppliers. They can use these resources to help you plan an event that fits your budget and target audience.
However, there are cons to choosing a freelance event planner for your next sporting event in Sydney.
• Potential conflict of interest
One of the potential drawbacks of working with a freelance event planner is that there may be a conflict of interest. For example, if the freelancer is also working with the venue, they may be reluctant to work with you.
• Higher Rates
Another potential drawback of working with a freelance event planner is that you may have to pay higher rates. This is because they typically have higher overhead costs.
If you want a hassle-free experience and are willing to pay, then a professional event planner is the way to go. However, if you’re on a budget or have specific ideas that you want to be implemented, then a freelance event planner might be a better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you value more: experience and connections or flexibility and affordability.
Eventpod: Corporate Hospitality Experiences Like No Other
A professional event planner can help you decide what type of event you need so you can have an effective marketing and branding campaign.
Here at Eventpod, you can be assured that we will cater to all your corporate event needs whilst having fun. We offer unique experiences that are created specifically for your brand. Our team of professional event management provides a large range of services tailored fit to your company’s corporate event goals and branding. Contact us and know more about what unique experience we can offer you for your next corporate event.