We have gently put our toe into events management and our June event is gently bubbling along has already seen loads of cross contact and sharing going on amongst all the attending stall holders which is how it should be.
Many years ago I was extremely fortunate to work with a brilliant public relations company and was lucky enough to get involved in setting up stands for clients. These stands were at events like Hotelympia and BBC Good Food Show with international clients. It gave me the most amazing insight into what actually needs to be done, the timescales involved and at all times give the impression that it took no effort at all. My boss was a consumate lady, and there was never a time when it was appropriate to scream or go 'aarrrrggggh' even if the most appalling disaster was heading our way. She saw event management as a swan, the world sees a graceful bird doing nothing in particular while the legs are going like billio underneath - and that's how she explained it and she's right. We could argue the toss and yell in the privacy of the board room to each other but never in front of a client, supplier or customer and this ethos is so true. This is what one client wrote to me after an event:
see, a swan to the client and a huge white paddling bird trying to beat the current to those behind the scenes!! If memory serves right this is the one with the missing toaster - had to barter one off another stall in exchange for food products from the client, you would be amazed how much bartering goes on at these big events. To this day we still don't know where that wretched toaster ended up but it certainly wasn't on the stand where it was supposed to be!
To those of you arranging and setting up craft fairs, the very best of luck to you because they are a lot harder work than some realise. Those of you in the know will be nodding thinking yep, while re-arranging a floor plan yet again! However, get your support network right, get your time planning in place and know your stall holders and it is the most amazing day out for everyone and no-one gets stuck in the current :) And if we can help or just offer virtual hugs in support please drop me a line at angie@chezhippo.co.uk as if we don't help each other we are definitely sunk!
