Category Archives: Event Tips

After the pandemic, 88% of companies started getting back to planning in-person events for 2022 and beyond. Corporate events are essential for office morale, team building, and can even help with branding to consumers.

No matter your event plans, it’s important to consider hiring a company event planner in Dallas. An event you plan yourself might be dull, boring, and end up costing you a lot of money for no reason. Event planners prevent this.

Keep reading to learn why it’s easy to go with the event planning pros.

Expertise and Experience

A company event planner in Dallas with years of experience has the expert knowledge to fast-track the planning process whether you are planning a corporate retreat or holiday party.

A professional will have a network of trusted suppliers, venues, and vendors. You can focus on your business instead of working on your event. A planner will present you with great options and help you choose the right fit.

Additionally, an event management company knows exactly what questions to ask when talking about your event, such as:

• Does the venue have a curfew?
• Do I need a special permit to host an event?

When you plan to host an event, you likely won’t think about getting these important answers.

Venue Management

Let’s talk more about venue management because it can be more complicated than many realize. For someone who has never hosted an event, venue management is best left to the professionals.

An event planner will take a site selection scouting trip to see how to use a venue to bring your ideas to life. They will also negotiate a favorable contract between you and the venue.

The help doesn’t end there. Once the event day rolls around, a planner will handle the details of the event with the event staff and management. They should monitor these elements to ensure a successful event:

• Guests
• Food and beverages
• Music
• Safety

If troubles arise, a planner will take care of these concerns. You won’t be bothered with anything unless absolutely necessary. This means you can spend your time talking to your guests and growing your business.

Saves Time and Avoids Stress

You are successful at running your company because you do it every day and know exactly what to do. If you aren’t planning events regularly, you need to start from scratch and learn the basics.

The process can become time-consuming, especially if you have never planned an event before. It’s not feasible to dedicate time to event planning when you have your work to do.

Event planners exist to save you time and prevent stress. You can focus on other aspects of your business and life while letting the professionals take care of the necessary details.

When you hire a planner, they will take on these tasks, and others, so that you don’t have to:

• Venue research
• Venue selection
• Vendor negotiations
• Budget management
• Event invites

Just tell them what you expect for the event and they will work to make it an event to remember.

Keeps You Within Your Budget

The cost of hiring an event planner is nothing when you realize that they can save you money and help you stay on budget.

Event planners have an eye for finding ways to make the most of your budget. They also have a network of people they’ve worked with before that might offer them special insider pricing or opportunities to negotiate.

A professional can recommend cost-effective solutions for entertainment, catering, decorations, etc.

If you try to host an event yourself, you might find that you quickly go over the company budget. It’s difficult to stay within budget when you don’t realize all you need to plan a business event.

A Fresh Perspective

Sometimes an outside perspective can turn something good into something amazing. Even if you’ve planned an event before, a professional can bring a valuable perspective to take your ideas to the next level.

A Dallas event planner will have an eye for design and can help you create a visually appealing event as a starting point. They will also help bring your concepts to life even if they are big ideas you aren’t sure how to pull off.

An undervalued reason to hire an event planner is to get updated information about event planning trends and elements. You won’t have to worry that your decor is outdated or that your entertainment is old-fashioned.

A corporate event planner will take the latest techniques to offer you something new and memorable.

A great event planner is always educating themselves on the greatest products that the industry can offer. If you are still in your search for an event planner, make sure the one you choose stays up to date on trends.

Brand Marketing

A company doesn’t exist without a brand identity. If you are planning on unveiling a new product or service at your corporate event, an event planner in Dallas can help you convey a specific message to attendees.

They will help you utilize florals, custom signs, lighting, and even furniture to enhance the environment and get your point across.

Tell your event planner that you are looking for a specific atmosphere to launch a product or service and have the planner create custom event concepts for you to choose from.

The knowledge of an event planner should lead to your business making a priceless impression on guests through a well-branded event.

Do You Need a Company Event Planner in Dallas?

There are many reasons to hire a company event planner in Dallas.

Event planners do much more than bring your idea to life and get everything ready for the big day. They will be there for you at the event to handle important details and any troubles that might arise.

The experts at Total Events DFW will make your next corporate gathering one that people talk about for years to come. With more than 20 years of experience, we’re ready to be your full-service corporate event team.

Contact us now to get the party started.

Planning an event can be a tricky task, but what if you could hand over all the hard work to an expert? There are over 900,000 wedding services workers in the US, not counting event planning specialists who help plan other parties and corporate events. Simply put, there’s a company that can take care of every tiny detail so you can enjoy your special occasion.

That’s especially true in Dallas, the third-largest city in Texas, which is a fantastic place for events. With its warm weather almost all year round, outdoor gatherings are a big hit. But it’s not just about the weather; this city has attractions like world-class museums, stunning botanical gardens, a vibrant art district, and exciting live music venues.

Choosing an event planner isn’t a decision to take lightly, though. It’s crucial to understand their process and how they will use your budget. Follow along as we delve into the world of event planning services in Dallas, helping you make the best choice for your event. 

Understanding Event Types

First thing first: to find a great party planner in DFW, you need to know what kind of event you’re hosting. Events can range from small, intimate gatherings to large, public spectacles, but here are some of the most common events we help people plan.

Corporate Events

Businesses or professional entities organize corporate events. These events could be internal, like team-building activities or company-wide meetings. They could also be external, such as product launches or trade shows.

Overall, corporate events aim to enhance company culture, celebrate achievements, or promote products and services. They are typically formal and require careful planning and execution. It’s also important to choose the right event venue.

Wedding Events

Wedding events include activities such as the ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinner, and bridal shower. Each aspect of a wedding event is carefully planned to make the day memorable for the couple and their guests.

Because it’s (usually) a one-time thing, you want to work with a wedding planner who will ensure your day goes off without a hitch.

Social Events: Parties, Birthdays, School Dances

Social events are gatherings that bring people together for enjoyment and fun. Parties and birthdays are social events where friends and family celebrate an individual or a special occasion.

On the other hand, school dances are events held by educational institutions where students can socialize, dance, and have fun. These events provide a great opportunity to interact, make new friends, and create lasting memories.

Why does this distinction matter? Party event planners need to know what kind of event they’re planning. It affects everything from venue selection and budget to entertainment and catering.

Key Factors in Event Planning

Do you know what kind of event you’re hosting? Great! Now it’s time to start thinking about the specifics. From setting goals to handling logistics, a few key factors can make or break your event. 

Event Planning Costs

First, you need to establish a budget. Your event budget should cover everything from the event venue rental, catering, and entertainment to marketing expenses (if it’s a corporate event). Planning your costs early ensures that your event is financially viable and helps avoids any unpleasant surprises.

Site Selection and Logistics Handling

Choosing the right venue and managing logistics is key to making your event run smoothly. You need to consider factors like location, capacity, accessibility, and facilities available. Also, plan for transportation, parking, and accommodation if necessary.

Program Creation and Content Development

The program and content of the event play a significant role in engaging your audience. This includes planning the schedule of activities, selecting speakers or performers, and developing engaging content that aligns with your event’s purpose.

If you’re planning a wedding or large birthday party, you’ll still need a schedule. You might not need to coordinate things like presentations or workshops, but you do need to plan for speeches, dinner, and other timely events throughout the evening.

Coordination on the Day of the Event

Good coordination ensures everything goes as planned on the event day. This involves managing the schedule, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring guests have a great time.

How to Find the Ideal Event Planner

Choosing the right event planner can make a big difference in the success of your event. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a birthday party, or a corporate function, the right planner should offer event planning services that help ensure everything runs smoothly.

Here are some key things to consider when searching for that perfect planner.

Area of Specialization

Different event planners specialize in different types of events. Some may be experts in weddings, while others excel at corporate functions. It’s important to find a planner specializing in the event you’re hosting.

Range of Services

Event planners offer a variety of event planning services. Some may provide full-service planning, which includes everything from venue selection to day-of coordination. Others may only offer specific services. Understand what each planner offers to see if it meets your needs.

Pricing Structure

Every planner has a different way of charging for their services. Some may charge a flat fee, while others take a percentage of the total event cost. Make sure you understand how a planner charges before you hire them.

Event Design vs. Event Planning

Remember, there’s a difference between event design and event planning. Design focuses on the look and feel of the event while planning handles the logistics. Some planners may do both, but not all events companies do. 

Planning Timeline

Ask potential planners how far in advance they start planning. This can give you an idea of their organizational skills and reliability. 

Refund and Cancellation Policies

Finally, understand your planner’s policies on refunds and cancellations. This information will be essential if any unforeseen circumstances occur.

Get Event Planning Services in Dallas

Need event planning services in Dallas? Whether you need DJs, live entertainment, meticulous event planning and coordination, dazzling décor and lighting, thrilling casino parties, professional photo, and video services, or end-to-end event production, we’ve got you covered.

If you dream it, we can make it happen. Don’t settle for anything less than amazing. Contact us at Total Events DFW today, and let’s start turning your event dreams into reality.

Have you ever heard the phrase “company culture?” It refers to the personality of a workplace, and it’s essential to the success of a business. A positive corporate culture can lead to higher engagement, better morale, and increased productivity. Conversely, a negative culture can have the opposite effect and even drive away employees.

And according to recent reports, having an “average” company culture won’t cut it anymore. However, don’t worry if you feel like your office’s corporate culture could improve a bit. The good news is that you can positively impact the environment. And it’s not that hard to do so.

Follow along as we explore six effective ways to improve corporate culture. From encouraging teamwork and open communication to promoting employee well-being, these tips will help create a more positive workplace. Let’s dive in and learn how to improve your office culture for the benefit of everyone involved.

The Importance of Good Corporate Culture

As mentioned, good company culture is vital to the success of any organization. It refers to the values, beliefs, and behaviors governing how employees interact with each other and the work environment. But why is a good corporate culture so important? Simply put, it affects everything.

For starters, it impacts employee retention rates. Employees who feel valued, appreciated, and included are less likely to leave. This leads to a reduction in recruitment costs and a boost in morale.

Additionally, it can lead to improved productivity as happier employees are more motivated and engaged. Employees engaged with the company culture and values are more likely to work hard and produce higher-quality work. This translates to increased:

• Revenue
• Profitability
• Market share

Lastly, it contributes to the overall happiness of your employees. A positive corporate culture leads to an environment where employees feel supported and fulfilled. Happier employees also become brand ambassadors, sharing their experiences with others and attracting high-quality candidates for open positions.

Ultimately, it pays to invest in your employees.

How to Improve Company Culture

Most businesses believe creating a positive company culture is expensive. While you do have to invest a bit of time, it doesn’t have to cost your company tons of money. Implementing these six tips can help you cultivate a culture you and your employees will be proud of.

Prioritize Employee Well-Being

One of the most important factors in creating a positive work environment is prioritizing your employee’s well-being. This means more than supplying healthy snacks and ergonomic chairs. Creating an environment that promotes mental health, work-life balance, and employee support is important. Consider offering:

• Mental health resources
• Flexible work schedules
• Company-wide wellness initiatives

Not sure what else to offer? Ask your employees! They’re the ones you’re doing this for, and listening to their feedback and suggestions is a great way to learn about their needs and wants.

Encourage Open Communication

Encouraging open communication is critical to a positive company culture. Encourage employees to share their thoughts, ideas, and feedback regularly. You can do this through regular one-on-one meetings or company-wide forums like all-hands meetings.

Ultimately, it’s not as important how you do it. Letting your employees feel heard through active listening and providing feedback can improve morale and productivity. However, ensure you’re actively implementing that feedback. If not, they can feel like you’re asking but not listening.

Foster Employee Growth

Encouraging employee growth goes beyond job training and development programs. Provide genuine opportunities for career growth through mentorship and allow them to take ownership of their work. Unsure what these kinds of programs look like? Consider the following:

• Leadership Training
• Skill Building Workshops
• Professional Development Programs
• Diversity and Inclusion Training
• Performance Management
• Volunteer Programs

Any of these programs will help employees feel valued, and the company can benefit from their growth and development.

Recognize & Reward Employees

Recognition of an employee’s hard work can serve as an extra motivation to keep working or improve. Rewards can come in bonuses, extra PTO days, or even acknowledgment of a job well done. However, if you really want to go above and beyond, implement a peer reward system. Hearing “good job” from coworkers can greatly impact morale.

Prioritize Diversity & Inclusion

A diverse workplace can bring fresh ideas and perspectives to your business while creating a more welcoming environment for all employees. Make sure to prioritize inclusion by implementing an open-minded hiring process and providing training courses focusing on diversity, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity.

Establish strong company values and ensure they’re shared values among all of your employees. Infuse those values into all the training you offer employees at every level.

Host Fun Corporate Events

Finally, hosting fun corporate events and team-building activities can be essential to creating a positive company culture. Your employees need to know that they’re cared for and that their life outside of work matters. These corporate events allow employees to socialize outside of the work environment. This can improve camaraderie and workplace happiness.

Whether it’s a company-sponsored happy hour, a friendly competition, or a charity event, providing ways for employees to bond and build relationships can help strengthen your company culture.

How to Host Great Corporate Events

Ready to boost morale by hosting fun corporate events? Hosting great corporate events is all about creating memorable experiences for attendees. The key to achieving this is to work with a team of specialists who can help you with everything.

From lighting and event planning to options for entertainers, a corporate event planner has the experience and connections you need to take your event to the next level. At least, we do at Total Events DFW.

You can avoid costly mistakes and delays that can eat away at your budget by getting all the services you need in one place. However, when selecting a team of specialists, it is essential to consider their experience and expertise. Ensure they’re equipped to handle the job and possess the skills and equipment needed to help you create a unique and memorable event.

Book Corporate Event Services

Investing in a positive company culture can impact your business in many ways. Armed with these six tips, you should be able to easily improve your company’s culture. However, if you want to take things to the next level, consider partnering with us.

Our expertly planned corporate events can help bring your team together and instill a sense of camaraderie and solidarity. Contact us today to learn how we can help you transform your corporate culture and take your business to new heights.

Did you know that a corporate retreat can not only boost employee productivity, but morale as well? 

When organized in a thoughtful manner, corporate retreats can encourage collaboration, while rewarding your team for their hard work. 

What are the key benefits of hosting a corporate retreat? What is the best way to plan a retreat? Continue reading to learn more. 

Benefits of Corporate Retreats 

Before planning a corporate retreat, it is important to reflect on the goals of the retreat. Why are you hosting a retreat? What do you hope to accomplish by planning a retreat for your team members? 

As suggested above, corporate retreats have attractive benefits that can help take your business to the next level. It all starts with your employees.

Retreats are designed to provide an opportunity for your employees to grow as professionals. More so, retreats serve as enjoyable motivators. They are meant to be fun and social engagements. 

From scavenger hunts to mind games, entertaining activities can teach your employees more about teamwork, strategy, and critical thinking. Not only can retreats help with mastering essential skills, but can also encourage your team members to think more creatively.

As an example, you plan an activity in which you ask your employees to gather in small teams and dream up the next big project for your company (on the condition that money is not an object). The task excites your team and encourages them to think out of the box.

This, in turn, lets them think innovatively without the fear of failure or judgment. Not only does the activity boost employee creativity, but it also may present some great ideas to consider exploring! 

If there are certain skills you wish to address in a corporate retreat, be sure to plan activities accordingly. A company event planner can help you select activities that highlight these skills in an engaging and enjoyable way. 

Determine Who Will Be Attending 

When planning a corporate retreat, one of the first tasks to consider is determining who will be attending. Depending on the size of your company, you may wish to invite your whole team, or just a department (ex. marketing, finance, etc). Some companies may plan retreats that are strictly for company executives or leaders, such as Apple’s Top 100 retreats under co-founder Steve Jobs. 

Determining who will be attending is dependent on the goals of the retreat. If a specific department in your company has been performing well but could use some motivation, a retreat could be the perfect opportunity to show that you care. 

Knowing how many individuals are invited to attend is essential before selecting a location for the retreat. 

Be Creative with the Location

Location matters. One of the most fun aspects of planning a corporate retreat is selecting a thoughtful location.

Whether you want to host the retreat nearby your headquarters or out of state, there are plenty of options to consider. Some retreats may be held at major houses or compounds that offer seclusion. While others are hosted at hotels in major cities. 

Considering the time of year is a thoughtful perspective to selecting a location. If it is summertime, your employees may appreciate having quick access to a pool or beach.

On the other hand, if it is winter, your employees may love attending a retreat in snowy mountain terrain. During meeting breaks, they can enjoy snowboarding or skiing on the slopes! 

As with every key decision regarding the retreat, selecting a location is ultimately dependent on retreat goals. A private environment may be the perfect place for your employees to socialize, grow, and have fun. 

Plan Transportation Needs

While selecting a location is a critical step in the corporate retreat planning process, it is equally important to plan for transportation needs.

Depending on the location you choose, you may need to fly your employees to the retreat. Book tickets well in advance and see if you can get a bulk discount. 

A common retreat transportation method is bus charters. Buses can transport your team to the retreat location and to any off-site events. The benefits of charting a bus include that it is convenient, safe, and cost-effective. 

Retreats Should Reflect Company Culture 

Retreats are enjoyable getaways, but they still are business trips. Throughout the planning stages of a retreat, it is essential that all activities reflect your company’s culture. 

A retreat is an opportunity to have your team members practice company values. Through the various activities you plan, you can encourage your team members to embrace company goals. 

You may wish to have a dress code for certain events or meals and that is more than okay. Additionally, when creating banners or any other materials for the retreat, be sure that they reflect company branding. 

Staying true to company culture is imperative for a retreat to prove successful. 

Retreats Should Not Only Address Skills, But Encourage Fellowship

Fellowship is a common retreat goal and for great reason. One of the best results of a successful corporate retreat is that your employees bonded and build friendships.

Collaboration is far more effective when team members work well together and care about each other. Retreats are all about providing a safe and fun space for employees to get to know each other better. 

Plan an Engaging Corporate Retreat Today

If you are seeking to plan a corporate retreat, Total Events DFW is here to help! 

As an experienced company event planner, we have helped many companies plan thoughtful and fun retreats. Our team desires to make your vision a reality. We will guide you throughout the planning process and help you create the ultimate retreat for your team. 

To learn more about us and our event planning services, please contact a member of our team today. We look forward to serving you! 

When you hear a song, do you often find your mind flooded with memories? Studies show that music has a profound impact on memories and emotions.

When you ask people what they’ll remember about an event like a wedding, they’ll often say the music. This is why finding a DJ is so imperative to the success of your event.

But, how do you choose a DJ? It may feel like a difficult task to accomplish, but we’re here to help. Read our guide below to learn what to look for.

Experience and Reputation

You want to choose a DJ who has experience in performing at events similar to yours. Head to their website and online reviews to see what other clients have said about their services. A good reputation is an excellent indicator of a DJ’s skill and professionalism.

Music Selection

When planning an event, choose a DJ that has a vast music library that caters to your tastes and preferences. A solid DJ will have all sorts of genres to please diverse audiences. Discuss your favorite songs, genres, etc., to be played at your event before hiring them.

Equipment and Backup Plans

Does the DJ have the proper equipment to handle the size and acoustics of your event? You’ll want to inquire about their backup plan in case of any technical issues (sound system, laptop, etc.). Technical difficulties do happen so be sure the show can go on.

Professionalism and Communication

When searching for a professional DJ in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you’ll want one that arrives on time, dresses appropriately, and knows how to interact with guests. Communication skills are a must and they should take the time to understand your vision for your event. A good indicator is a DJ who responds promptly to emails and calls and is easy to work with.

Pricing

Always stick to your budget when you choose a DJ—especially for corporate events. Consider the DJ’s pricing structure and services included in their package.

Some DJs will charge per hour while others offer a flat rate. Know what you’re paying for (including any additional costs) before signing the contract.

Availability

Finding a DJ can be tougher closer to your event date. So, be sure to perform a search well ahead of time. 

Referrals

One way to find a great DJ is through referrals from friends, family, or event planners. Ask for recommendations and follow up with those DJs to see if they are available and fit your criteria. You can also ask the DJ for references from past clients to get a sense of their work.

Personality and Style

The DJ’s personality and style can greatly impact the atmosphere of your event. Some DJs are more interactive with the crowd, while others focus on the music. Determine the type of DJ you want based on your event’s theme and the vibe you want to create.

Meeting in Person

It’s essential to meet the DJ in person before hiring them to ensure they’re the right fit. Use this opportunity to discuss your event’s details and vision, and ask any questions you may have. This can help build a rapport with the DJ and ensure they understand your expectations.

Contracts and Agreements

Before you choose a DJ for your event, be sure to review and sign a contract that outlines the terms and conditions of their service. Ensure you fully understand the terms before signing to avoid any surprises on the day of the event.

Insurance and Licenses

Check to see if the DJ has liability insurance and the necessary licenses to perform in Dallas-Fort Worth. This can protect you from any liability in case of an accident or injury during the event. Ask the DJ for proof of insurance and licenses before hiring them.

You’ll also want to ensure that the DJ has the necessary music licenses to perform at your event.

In the US, DJs need licenses to play copyrighted music at events. Make sure the DJ has a license from a reputable music licensing organization such as ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. This can prevent any legal issues that may arise due to unlicensed music played at the event.

Lighting and Effects

Consider if you want lighting or special effects during your event. Many DJs offer additional services such as uplighting, dance floor lighting, and fog machines. Determine if these services fit your event’s theme and budget.

Testimonials and Awards

Testimonials and awards can provide additional validation of a DJ’s quality and performance.

Look for DJs who have won awards or received recognition for their services. You can also read testimonials from previous clients on the DJ’s website or social media pages. Positive testimonials and awards can give you confidence in your decision to hire a particular DJ.

Choose a DJ

Selecting the right DJ in Dallas-Fort Worth involves more than just finding someone to play music. You need to choose a DJ who can set the right mood, keep your guests engaged, and handle any unexpected issues that may arise during the event.

A reliable and professional DJ will work with you to understand your vision for the event and deliver an unforgettable experience that your guests will remember for years to come. With these tips in mind, you’re well-equipped to find the perfect DJ for your event.

The good news is that you’re already in the right place. We’ve hand-selected DJs for you. Have a look and get the party started!