Event Planners Framework For A Flawless Outdoor Event Season
Hosting outdoor events featuring live production elements can be an exhilarating experience for both organizers and attendees alike. However, ensuring smooth operations amidst the unpredictable outdoor environment requires meticulous planning and execution. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into essential strategies and considerations to successfully host outdoor events with a focus on live production elements.
Why are Special Planning Efforts Necessary for Outdoor Events?
Organizing events and live productions outdoors opens a world of possibilities, but it also introduces numerous variables that aren't present in indoor venues.
While indoor venues have improved in anticipating the needs of various events, there's an undeniable allure to hosting events outdoors, creating a unique ambiance and experience.
However, opting for an outdoor venue means forgoing many of the certainties and amenities associated with indoor spaces. Planners must contend with factors beyond their control, such as weather and environmental conditions. Despite these challenges, planners and producers have honed the craft of orchestrating successful outdoor events over the years. Whether driven by necessity or the desire for experiential benefits, this guide will serve as your framework for success, focusing not only on live production elements but also on the myriad of non-technical aspects crucial for flawless execution.
Your Guide to Outdoor Event Planning and Live Production Management
Make These Considerations Before Moving Your Event Outdoors
Choosing the Right Location
Selecting the perfect outdoor venue is paramount to a successful event. Considerations such as accessibility, size, amenities, and local regulations play crucial roles. Every venue has its own set of rules and regulations for their outdoor spaces, necessitating a thorough understanding to execute all desired elements seamlessly.
Many outdoor events take place in public parks, streets, and community-driven venues, each with specific ordinances and permitting processes. Timeliness and advanced planning are imperative, with some cities requiring up to 90- or 120-days’ notice for event applications. Consult your city's special events department for area-specific guidelines.
Weather Contingencies
Weather poses one of the most significant challenges for outdoor events, being one of the few variables beyond organizers' control. A comprehensive weather contingency plan is essential to mitigate risks associated with rain, wind, extreme temperatures, and other conditions. This plan may include having tents, umbrellas, heaters, or fans on standby, as well as identifying alternative indoor locations if necessary.
Collaborate closely with your venue and vendors to understand seasonal weather patterns and develop a plan that ensures the safety of all attendees and staff in the event of adverse weather. Be sure to identify the latest time your vendors can be notified of a venue change to ensure they can be ready for doors to open, on time, at either location. Last, weather contingencies often require additional investments, so be sure to include this in your event budget.
Technical Setup and Equipment
Investing in high-quality audio, lighting, and video equipment suitable for outdoor use is paramount. Collaborate with experienced technicians to set up and test equipment well in advance to avoid last-minute technical glitches. Consider factors such as ambient noise, natural lighting changes, and power sources during the planning phase.
Selecting the appropriate technical equipment can make or break your guest experience and event goals. Get as detailed with your as possible with your technical vendor(s), so they can ensure your desired experience is achieved.
Stage Design and Layout
Crafting an optimal stage layout is essential for enhancing audience engagement and ensuring unobstructed views. Take into account factors like stage dimensions, positioning, and accessibility for performers and crew members. Incorporate designated areas for VIP seating, sponsor booths, and essential amenities such as food and beverage vendors. Don’t forget to consider the outdoor elements such as the direction of sunlight, ground conditions, and other environmental factors.
The layout of your event space can significantly impact its success, whether the live production takes center stage or complements other attractions. Consulting the venue and your contracted vendors, particularly the production company, can provide valuable insights into optimizing conditions to achieve your event objectives.
Crowd Management and Safety
Safety should always be the top priority at any event. Implement crowd management strategies to facilitate smooth ingress and egress, prevent overcrowding, and other unsafe situations. Trained staff or security personnel should be present to address emergencies or disturbances promptly. Don’t forget to include a dedicated first-aid station in your event plan. Local EMS providers are a great resource to assist you in determining needs specific to your event.
Effective communication is a crucial component of safety plans. Your production vendor can likely incorporate wireless communication devices into your rental package to facilitate rapid communication during emergencies.
Talent and Entertainment
It’s often beneficial to curate a diverse range of performers and entertainment acts that resonate with your target audience. Work with your production vendor to coordinate rehearsals and soundchecks to ensure seamless performances on the day of the event. Consider hiring a professional emcee to facilitate smooth transitions between different elements of the live production.
Provide sheltered break spaces and green rooms with amenities for your talent, vendors, and event staff, recognizing their pivotal role in executing your vision.
Engaging Visuals and Branding
Don’t neglect to consider the value technology and other production resources can bring to your event. Elevate the visual appeal of your outdoor event by designing captivating signage, banners, and branding elements. Integrate thematic elements and consistent branding throughout the event, from stage backdrops to promotional materials.
To enhance attendee engagement and encourage social sharing, explore the inclusion of interactive installations or photo opportunities. Digital boards offer dynamic opportunities for branding and messaging, complementing traditional print signage. Your production company should offer a range of options for incorporating digital boards and interactive elements into your event, tailored to your needs.
Stages, trussing, and other support structures often require specific materials and hanging mechanisms for event signage. Consult your production vendor when designing print materials for these structures.
Conclusion
Hosting outdoor events offers unparalleled opportunities for creativity and community engagement. By meticulously considering venue selection, weather contingencies, technical setup, crowd management, talent curation, and branding, you can create memorable experiences for attendees.
Remember, you're not alone in your planning journey—your vendors are valuable resources eager to offer their expertise.
With thorough planning and attention to detail, your outdoor event can be a resounding success from start to finish.
Need more information on any of the recommendations provided in this guide? Contact us! We’re here to help!