Speaker 1: The top seven budgeting mistakes event planners make and how you can avoid them. Crafting a budget for an event is a complex task that requires meticulous attention to detail. Event planners must consider numerous factors, from venue cost to logistics. Here are some common mistakes that event planners make when budgeting for these crucial elements. Number one is underestimating Wi-Fi costs. In the digital age, a reliable Wi-Fi connection is indispensable and many consider it as necessary as air. Event planners often make the mistake of forgetting or underestimating the cost associated with providing high-speed, secure Internet access at their events. Failure to allocate an adequately budget for Wi-Fi can blow your budget and or result in connectivity issues negatively impacting the attendee experience and overall event success. Number two is overlooking audio-visual requirements. The audio-visual setup is the cornerstone of any successful event. Failing to accurately assess the AV needs and associated costs in advance can lead to subpar presentations, technical glitches, and a diminished overall experience. Gather as many requirements in advance from your management, guest speakers, entertainment writers, and vendors and sponsors possible, so that you can avoid the explosive rack rates that will destroy your budget for technical support, equipment rental, lighting, and more. The next one is neglecting rigging and power needs. For events involving elaborate setups or stages, rigging and power requirements are often overlooked. Rigging for lighting and stage setups as well as ensuring ample power sources should be factored into the budget from the outset. Next is underestimating your branding costs. Branding is a key aspect of event success, but its costs are frequently underestimated or neglected altogether. From signage to promotional materials, overlooking the full scope of branding needs can lead to last-minute expenses and a lackluster event presence. The comprehensive budget should include all aspects of branding, ensuring a cohesive and impactful visual identity. Next is ignoring labor costs. Event labor encompasses various roles, from event staff and security to technical support. Underestimating the number of personnel required and their associated costs can strain the budget and compromise the event's execution. Properly account for labor needs, factoring in overtime costs and potential additional support required during your peak event times. Next is missing talent writers. Your guests, speakers, and entertainers normally have a writer, in addition to the contract that lists their needs. These can run from green M&Ms to hotel suites, first-class airfare, additional rooms, lavish meals, expensive instrument or equipment needs, and more. Be sure to review carefully what your talent requires before you execute your contract with them. And lastly, misjudging internal event needs. Event planners often overlook the importance of accommodating their internal team. Neglecting to budget for sufficient sleeping rooms and coordinating meals can lead to logistical challenges impacting your team's performance during the event. Underestimating your travel costs, failing to account for potential changes, or booking last-minute flights can result in budget overruns. A thorough assessment of travel requirements, including potential changes or delays, is essential for accurate budgeting. Also, be sure to take a hard look at your needs on-site. You don't need everyone from your headquarters to attend the event. Successfully navigating the complexities of event planning budgets requires a keen understanding of the myriad of factors involved. By avoiding these common mistakes and taking a proactive approach to budgeting, event planners can ensure a seamless and successful event experience for both organizers and attendees alike. Are you looking to host your first event or just up your event game? Get in touch for a no-obligation consultation with an expert at T3 Events Group. We wish you much success on your next event.