Unveiling the Perfect Event: Making the Choice Between an Event Consultant and an Event Planner

Unveiling the Perfect Event: Making the Choice Between an Event Consultant and an Event Planner

When planning a special event, it can be difficult to determine the right choice between an event consultant vs event planner. An experienced professional will have the skills and knowledge needed to ensure that your special occasion runs smoothly, but it is important to understand the differences between these two roles before making a decision. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore what exactly each professional does and discuss how they differ from one another so you can make an informed decision when selecting someone for your next big occasion.

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The difference between these two event specialists

When you have made the decision to launch an event for business, but now you need help to bring your vision to life, you must ask yourself do I hire an Event Consultant or an Event Planner? 

You may also ask what the difference between these two event specialists is - the answer is simple.

  • The main difference between the two is that an event planner will most likely execute any type of event from start to finish (establishing a timeline, budget, relationships with vendors, signing contracts, all the things, A to Z an event needs).
  • An event consultant, on the other hand, will aid her client in what type of event will work best for her business, establishing her WHY behind creating the event, and helping her to develop a strategy and plan for launching this gathering.


Find the Perfect Fit for Your Special Occasion 

The most important question to ask before you begin anything is, do you have the bandwidth to have a staff member or members assist with the event itself? 

  • If you feel you have the internal support to execute a plan, then hiring an event consultant would be the perfect solution. 
  • On the flip side, if you don’t have the manpower and would like someone to come in and handle everything from start to finish, then an event planner would be your best bet. 

Both are amazing assets to have, it just ultimately depends on your needs + what you are able to take-on.


9-Point Checklist


Here is a handy checklist to follow when you make the choice to hire an Event Planner:

1. Clearly define your goals and expectations: Before working with an event planner, take the time to clearly articulate your event goals, objectives, and vision.

2. Communicate openly and regularly: Establish effective communication channels with your event planner.

3. Set a realistic budget: Determine a realistic budget for your event and communicate it to your planner from the beginning.

4. Collaborate on event concept and design: Work closely with your event planner on the concept and design of your event.

5. Provide timely feedback: Provide prompt feedback and decision-making to avoid delays and keep the planning process on track.

6. Trust their expertise: Event planners have extensive experience and industry knowledge.

7. Maintain flexibility: Events can be unpredictable, and unforeseen circumstances may arise. Stay flexible and open to adjustments or changes during the planning process.

8. Stay organized: Maintain a centralized system for event-related documents, contracts, and communication.

9. Provide post-event feedback: After the event, share your feedback with your event planner. Let them know what worked well and areas that could be improved.


Here is another handy checklist to follow when you make the choice to hire an Event Consultant:

1. Clearly define your objectives and desired outcomes: Before engaging with an event consultant, have a clear understanding of what you hope to achieve through their expertise.

2. Collaborate closely: Embrace a collaborative mindset when working with an event consultant.

3. Be open to new ideas and approaches: Event consultants often bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table.

4. Establish clear communication channels: Maintain regular and transparent communication channels with your event consultant.

5. Leverage their network and industry connections: Event consultants typically have a vast network of industry contacts and vendor relationships.

6. Seek their guidance on budget optimization: Event consultants can help you optimize your budget by identifying areas where costs can be reduced or reallocated for maximum impact.

7. Provide feedback and evaluate progress: Throughout the planning process, provide timely feedback to the event consultant. Let them know what is working well and areas where adjustments may be needed.

8. Utilize their expertise for event evaluation: Event consultants can offer valuable insights during post-event evaluation.

9. Maintain a long-term relationship: Building a long-term relationship with an event consultant can be highly beneficial. Continuity allows them to develop a deeper understanding of your organization, brand, and event goals, leading to more effective planning in the future.

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Find the Perfect Match: Event Consultant vs Event Planner

Regardless of the choice you make for your business (event consultant vs event planner), be sure to align yourself with a professional that understands your business, brand, and mission. They need to be an extension of your team and bring to light to light your vision for the event.