Why Event Planning is One of the Most Stressful Jobs in the World
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The High-Stress World of Event Planning
Event planning has consistently ranked as one of the most stressful jobs in the world. It frequently appears in lists highlighting the top five of high-stress careers, alongside professions involving life-or-death decisions such as firefighting and healthcare. While event planning may not deal with direct physical danger, the immense mental and emotional strain of the job can be quite overwhelming. Event planners are responsible for coordinating numerous moving parts, managing multiple stakeholders, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Even the smallest mistake can lead to major disruptions, creating intense pressure in a “one and done” situation.
 
Whether it’s a corporate conference, wedding, or large-scale public event, the stakes are high, and the stress levels reflect that. Research consistently highlights the unique demands of the job, with many surveys recognizing event planning as one of the most anxiety-inducing careers worldwide.

​The Unpredictable Nature of Event Planning
A key factor contributing to the stress of event planning is its unpredictable nature. From weather disruptions to last-minute changes in client preferences, planners must remain flexible and quick on their feet. This unpredictability means that event planners can never truly relax until the event concludes successfully. Any unforeseen issue, such as a vendor failing to deliver on time or technical problems with audiovisual setups, can lead to elevated anxiety levels.
 
Managing these unexpected challenges while still delivering a perfect event experience is difficult. Planners must often troubleshoot on the go, making quick decisions to prevent any negative impact on the event’s outcome.

​Post-Covid Challenges in Event Planning
The COVID-19 pandemic introduced new stressors to an already demanding industry. Following this worldwide disruption, event planners now face higher costs in several areas, including audiovisual equipment, beverage services, and most deeply felt, food. Some of these costs have risen by over 20% compared to pre-pandemic levels. This financial burden is particularly stressful for planners working on tight budgets - especially those who have been charged to plan large-scale fundraisers for nonprofits and service groups. With senior leadership and Board of Directors demanding profitable events, planners are left in a tough spot - they must meet expectations without compromising on quality or attendee experiences.
 
Adding to this pressure is the challenge of reduced revenues and attendance. Many organizations report that their event income has fallen significantly since 2019, yet planners are still expected to deliver exceptional experiences despite fewer resources - “do more with less”. This has produced a perfect storm of rising costs and reduced incomes, creating an environment ripe for stress and anxiety.

Beyond the state of events in the aftermath of COVID-19, there are many other reasons why your favorite event planner is a ball of stress:

1. Lack of Event Management Tools and Technologies: Unlike industries such as marketing or sales that are supported by advanced automation tools, event planning often lacks comprehensive, specialized technology solutions. This forces planners to handle multiple complex tasks manually - from juggling schedules and coordinating with vendors to creating the perfect backup plan for any unforeseen emergency.
2. Venue Selections - A Time-Consuming Process: Finding the perfect venue for an event is one of the most critical tasks event planners face. The process can be extremely time-consuming, as it involves evaluating multiple options and analyzing location logistics, audience capacity, and amenities. Simply securing a venue that fits the event’s specifications isn’t enough - planners must also conduct on-site inspections, check for potential problems, and ensure the venue aligns with the event’s overall vision. And - even after selecting the “perfect venue”, planners might still face issues during the event, such as poor technical setups or “less-than” coordination and communication from the venue’s staff.
3. Managing Expectations of Multiple Stakeholders: Event planners are often caught in the crossfire of managing the expectations of multiple stakeholders - and they have the added stress of producing many “once-in-a-lifetime” events. From clients and attendees to vendors and service providers, each party has its own set of demands and priorities. Meeting these varying and sometimes conflicting expectations requires careful coordination and most importantly, clear communication. A misstep in any one area can lead to dissatisfaction, ultimately impacting the overall success of the event.
4. Financial Risks and Uncertain Budgets: Budget management is a crucial component of event planning, and it is often one of the most stress-inducing aspects of the job. Most event planners are forced to work within limited budgets that must stretch to cover a wide range of costs - from venue rentals and catering to marketing and audiovisual services. Rising costs and fewer venues and vendors to choose from post-pandemic, make financial planning more difficult than ever. Planners often have little control over unexpected price hikes, such as increases in food and beverage costs and labor charges. These unpredictable expenses can create financial strain and they often force planners to make difficult decisions to cut costs in areas that could impact the overall experience.
5. High Expectations for Flawless Execution: The pressure for perfection in event planning is huge. Clients expect events to run seamlessly, and even minor hiccups can lead to anger and damage a planner’s reputation. Whether it’s technical glitches, logistical errors, or last-minute changes, any disruption can be detrimental to the event’s success. Event planners must be proactive problem solvers, anticipating any potential issues before they arise.
6. Having to Rely on Others: Another key factor that often contributes to the most stress of event planning, is the need to rely on multiple vendors and external teams to execute. Coordinating with suppliers for services such as catering, audiovisual support, and venue management often presents challenges. Late deliveries, miscommunication, or underperformance by vendors can create chaos. Event planners often also fill the role of relationship managers who have to oversee and manage relationships in order for everything to run smoothly.

​A Rewarding Yet Stressful Career Path
Event planning is undeniably one of the most stressful jobs in the world, but it can also be one of the most rewarding. The ability to turn a vision into reality, create memorable experiences, and contribute to an event’s success brings immense satisfaction. However, the journey to that successful moment can often be filled with challenges, stress, and BIG pressure.
 
The key to surviving and thriving in this industry is to find ways to manage stress through proper planning, the use of technology, and seeking support from a reliable team of vendors.

At Big Deal Company, we understand these challenges, which is why our team of professional event planners is equipped with diverse skills to ensure that every event runs smoothly. Our collaborative approach helps us support one another, share the workload, craft creative touches and solutions, and eliminate much of the stress that comes with high-stakes events. With our experienced team at the helm, our clients can rest assured that their event will be successful and stress-free. 

​Want to work with Big Deal to create memorable and stress-free events?
We’re here to help you elevate your next event and leave a lasting impact on your audience. Contact us today for a consultation: 970-613-1455
 
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Let’s create something amazing together!

Why a “Day of” Wedding Coordinator is a Thing of the Past
A wedding is more than just a ceremony - it’s an intricate event filled with emotions, many details, and months (sometimes years) of preparation. Big Deal Company has worked for years in the wedding industry. In the past, many couples relied on our expertise and secured our services as “day of” wedding coordinators to help bring their vision to life on their big day. However, recently, we have seen this role of “day of” coordinator fade away. More couples have realized the importance of a comprehensive, all-inclusive wedding planning service. This shift is driven by the growing understanding that successful weddings are the result of meticulous planning, consistent communication, and thorough collaboration - elements that are hard and nearly impossible to achieve well with just a “day of” approach. Bottom line - a wedding is often a huge investment, and you want to support and see that investment thrive!

The Evolution of Wedding Planning
Weddings have always been complex events, but the expectations surrounding them have evolved significantly over the years. Today, weddings are not just about two people exchanging vows - although that is the most basic and important part of the day. Today’s weddings are about creating unforgettable experiences reflecting the couple’s personality, style, and love story. As a result, wedding planning has become a year-long process that requires attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to manage unexpected challenges. (This is especially true when it comes to finding the perfect venue - many of our favorites are booked out months, if not years, in advance!)
 
The “day of” wedding coordinator was once a popular option for couples who wanted to save money by handling most of the planning themselves, only to bring a professional in at the last minute to ensure everything ran smoothly. However, the limitations of this approach have become increasingly apparent. Coordinators who come in at the eleventh hour often lack an in-depth understanding of the couple’s vision and the intricate details that have been planned over months. This can lead to disjointed events that often fall short of expectations.

Why “Day of” Coordination Falls Short
Imagine a situation where our team of highly skilled and professional planners is brought in just days before the big event. Our team must familiarize ourselves with all of the vendors, the timeline (sometimes multiple), and specific details in a very short period of time. Our team has the expertise to manage logistics - no problem! - but sometimes there is a disconnect with the couple’s unique preferences, like for example, the significance of certain elements, and such. This can mean that certain subtle nuances that make the wedding truly personal for the couple, run the chance of being missed or understated. The result is often a cookie-cutter event that is well-executed but lacks the more personal touches that automatically come from a deeper, more involved planning process.
 
“Day of” coordinator roles are more reactive rather than proactive. Their main role is to put out fires and ensure nothing goes wrong. Without prior involvement, a day-of coordinator might not be able to anticipate potential issues or have a full contingency plan in place. In contrast, a coordinator who has been involved from the beginning is better equipped to foresee challenges (hello, wild family dynamics – weddings sometimes bring out the worst in people!), address concerns, and ensure the day unfolds seamlessly according to the couple’s vision.

The Benefits of Full-Service Wedding Planning
Couples who truly want to enjoy their wedding day without stress or last-minute surprises are increasingly opting for full-service wedding planning contracts. These contracts typically involve the coordinator from the early stages of planning, allowing them to work closely with the couple to understand their vision, preferences, and priorities. Our team spends time listening to our wedding couples, and asking a series of in-depth questions so that we can walk with that couple from the beginning stages of planning all the way down the aisle (not literally - although ask us about our tips on how to get a shy flower girl down the aisle - sometimes you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do!).
 
Here are some key benefits of choosing a full-service wedding planner over a “day of” coordinator:
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Seamless Communication and Collaboration
When a wedding planner is involved from the start, they become an integral part of the planning process. They communicate regularly with the couple, vendors, and venue staff, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. This continuous communication helps to build strong working relationships, allowing the planner to better understand the couple’s needs and wishes. It also provides a strong foundation, making sure that any changes or adjustments can be made smoothly and efficiently.
 
Personalized Wedding Experience
A full-service planner has the time and opportunity to get to know the couple on a personal level. They can offer creative ideas, suggest vendors that match the couple’s style, and help to create a wedding that truly reflects the couple’s personality. Our expertise comes with years of connections - we have a deep understanding of the wedding industry and we know the “exceptional” vendors who will make the day perfect in every way.

Detailed Planning and Execution
A full-service wedding planner is involved in every aspect of the wedding, from the initial concept to the final details. They help create a detailed timeline, coordinate with vendors, and manage the logistics of the day. This level of involvement ensures that every aspect of the wedding is carefully planned and executed leaving nothing to chance. You don’t know what you don’t know – but Big Deal Company DOES know! We won’t miss important details and will help guide couples with the big and small decisions. We’ve planned hundreds of weddings - most couples, hopefully, have not!

Peace of Mind
One of the biggest benefits of hiring a full-service wedding planner is the peace of mind it provides. Couples can rest assured that every detail is being handled by a professional who is fully invested in making their day perfect. They can relax and enjoy their wedding day without worrying about whether everything is going according to plan.
 

Why Investing in a Wedding is Worth It
Weddings are one of the most significant investments a couple will make, both financially and emotionally. Given the importance of the day, it’s worth investing in a planning service that offers comprehensive support. While a “day of” coordinator might seem like a cost-effective option, it can ultimately lead to stress and disappointment if things don’t go as planned.
 
Couples who choose a full-service planner are investing in more than just a coordinator - they’re investing in peace of mind, a well-organized event, and a wedding that truly reflects their vision. The higher upfront cost is offset by the assurance that the wedding will be handled with care, expertise, and attention to detail, possible vendor discounts through established relationships, and more - resulting in a day that is both memorable and enjoyable.
 
The Changing Expectations of Couples
The wedding industry has changed a lot over the years. As a result, today’s couples are more informed and have higher expectations for their wedding day. They are less willing to leave important details to chance and more likely to seek out services that offer comprehensive support. The rise of social media, Pinterest, and wedding blogs has also played a role in shaping these expectations, as couples now have access to a wealth of information and inspiration.
 
With this increased awareness comes the realization that “day of” coordination may not be enough to achieve the desired outcome. Modern couples want a planner who can guide them through the entire process, from the initial concept to the final details. They want someone who can offer personalized advice, handle the unexpected, and ensure their wedding day is everything they dreamed (and paid for) it to be!

BIG DEAL Company was honored to celebrate with wedding of Will & Mellissa in Windsor, CO. This beautiful backyard celebration was perfect! Close friends and family, happy  inspirational signs that reflect Mellissa's whimsical and sweet personality, and wildflowers everywhere!

Thank you to the following event vendors for supporting this lovely couple and their beautiful love:
--Rentals:  Flexx Productions
--Photos:  Photography by Jewels
--Catering:  Backyard Bird
-- Flowers:   Bouquets Your Way
-- Music:  String Quartet Con Brio
-- Planning:  BIG DEAL Company

We hear the question all the time, "Do I really need to hire an event planner?"
Maybe you are really organized...
Maybe you are surrounded with helpful people.
While there is no question that organizational skills and reliable friends can aid in an event's success - there is nothing like having a professional team to ensure your event is successful and stress free.

With over 160 years of combined experience on our event planning team, we have compiled a number of memorable 'Event Planner to the Rescue' moments during our time working together. So many popped up that we had to make this a multi-part blog!

Examples of how we have saved the day at events:

-Flashlights - We carry them in our emergency kits. We have supported countless events where lighting was limited, but bathrooms are always necessary. Hey - in Colorado, we have outdoor events nearly year-round! Sometimes guests with simply need an escort... to the parking lot or to the restrooms. 

-Glowsticks - Yes, we get creative. Sometimes hanging glowsticks in restrooms comes with the job. Creativity - it's what we do.

-Keeping peace with the family - There is a reason why the role of Event Planner is commonly in the Top 10 List of most stressful jobs in America. Part of our job is 'making people happy.' When family relationships are strained, we are often the peacemakers.

-Traditions - Speaking of family intervention.... we commonly experience dissention between business partners who disagree about 'the way things have always been done'.... or family members who are insistent on honoring tradition or heritage, even though the recognized parties don't associate with said traditions. In comes your event planner.

-Technology partners - Not only do we rock spreadsheets, we have to be well-versed in every kind of technology. From laptop back-ups, jump drives to tablets and iPods with your playlist back-up.... we have managed it all. DJ showed up with a wireless microphone with dead batteries. We step in.

-Wind storms, Rain storms and Stow storms - With 20+ years of experience and an average of 100 events a year, we've seen and planned around it all. We approach every event with a plan A, plan B and plan C. We have weathered all kinds of storms and don't sweat it, because we have seen and done it all.

Lucky guests, family, and friends in Greeley, Colorado had the opportunity to witness pure magic as high school sweethearts, Savannah and Connor, tie the knot in a backyard wedding that left everyone in awe.
 
A Bridge to Forever
Onf of the standout features of this unforgettable day was the breathtaking bridge constructed by the bride’s Father, over the family’s sparkling backyard swimming pool. This picturesque bridge served as the aisle, creating a beautiful path towards the future for the newly married couple.
The wedding was officiated by the bride’s brother, and the couple exchanged their vows under a beautiful tree decorated with flowers and flowing fabric. As Savannah and Connor exchanged their promises, surrounded by flowers and the serene waters, it was impossible not to be swept away by the sheer romance of it all.

Mariachi Magic
Immediately following the ceremony, guests were invited to visit over tasty cocktails and passed appetizers while being serenaded by the lively tunes of a Mariachi band - adding a touch of tradition and irresistible energy to the evening! This added a special element of fun to the entire evening!

An Evening of Elegance
The reception was equally beautiful and special! Guests dined and danced in a tent adorned with delicate chandeliers and twinkling lights - transforming the backyard into a beautifully lit wonderland. The food was beautifully catered and presented, the wine was flowing, and the music and speeches were heartfelt and entertaining.

A Sparkler Send-Off
As the night drew to a close, Savannah and Connor’s grand exit was nothing short of spectacular! Guests formed a shimmering pathway of sparklers, creating a dazzling tunnel of light for the newlyweds. The joy and love in the air were palpable as the couple made their way through this radiant send off.
 
This special backyard wedding was more than just a celebration - it was a testament to love, commitment, and the power of high school sweethearts turned life partners.
 
Congratulations to Savannah and Connor! BIG DEAL Company was honored to be a part of their BIG DAY! May their love story continue to be as beautiful and inspiring as this remarkable day!

Wedding Magic Makers:
Venue: Private home in Greeley, CO
Wedding Planning Team: BIG DEAL Company
Catering: Coyote’s Southwestern Grill
Lodging: DoubleTree Greeley
Florist: Palmer Flowers
Photography & Videography: Lowercase Imaging
DJ Services: DJ Manos
Cocktail Hour Entertainment: Mariachi Regional de Mexico
Decor Rentals: FLEXX Productions and Primary Event Rentals
Transportation: NoCo Party Bus
Restroom Rentals: Port-a-Lux
Hair and Makeup: James Salon Spa
Rehearsal Dinner: Ginger & Baker

We simply loved working with this family and supporting Andrew & Gretchen on their BIG DAY! We support MANY out-of-state couples on all of the delicate details. This family was another success story of long distance planning so a dreamy mountain wedding could happen - and make dreams come true!

The Wedding Magic Makers:
Rentals: Primary Event Rentals
Venue: YMCA Estes Park
Music: Suit & Tie DJs
Event Planning: BIG DEAL Company
Hair/Make-Up: Bridal Glow Salon & Spa
Photography: Sarah Lee Welch Photography
Florist: Fanciful Florals