Special events are envisioned and planned worldwide on a daily basis. They entertain, excite, educate, enthuse, and inspire audiences of all ages. Usually, event professionals are successful at delivering what is promised and planned. Usually, spectators and guests align with and participate in a way that generates resonance. Together they share appreciation, gratitude, and well-being with friends and strangers.
Since 1986, I have been dedicated to providing consulting and education that has contributed to the success, safety, security, and magic of events. Since then, and thanks to so many, the special event world has transformed itself with professionalism and commitment. Given the thousands of events taking place annually, negligence or failure of event planners is rare. Given the millions of spectators and attendees, irresponsible recklessness and criminal activity is also rare.
‘Rare’ implies infrequent, not zero. Just as every event is unique, so is every failure. In the business of planning and producing special events, just as with parenting, it is essential to stay alert and keep learning. When we assume that we know everything, and that everything is under control, is usually when we make mistakes.
There is an ‘us’ that must be respected and protected whenever we gather together. In different ways, this ‘us’ is generated by both event planners and their guests. Both want rewarding, not costly memories. Our work continues.
Alexander Berlonghi