Are you already tearing your hair out at the thought of upcoming end-of-year events? It’s an exciting time for corporate functions, but one that can certainly amount to stress for organisers. With tight budgets and timeframes, pressure to make an impact and looming ‘unknowns’ as you plan, it’s easy to see why.

But you know what else is easy? Following these tips to stay stress-free!

1. Don’t look too far ahead

Often, event planning stress is caused by looking too far ahead and becoming overwhelmed. It’s important to focus on the outcome, but not to the detriment of completing tasks. Create an action plan with small, easily achievable goals that you can tick off as you go.

2. Try not to multitask

While being a great multitasker isn’t a bad thing, it’s a prime reason for event planning stress. Are you often talking on the phone while writing an email and eating lunch at the same time? You might think you’re getting things done quickly. In reality, by not focusing on each single task, you risk missing important information from the phone call, sending the email to the wrong person and negatively affecting your digestion!

3. Delegate tasks to a team

If you’re the type of person who likes to take on everything to make sure it’s done correctly, you’re most likely dealing with unnecessary stress. You can still ensure things are done right, while delegating tasks. For example, if you need to hire event catering in Sydney, by all means choose your preferred company. However, ask a team member to further liaise with the supplier, to lessen your own load.

4. Stick to your budget

Trying to stick to a tight budget for an event can be a challenge akin to climbing Mt Everest. The thing is, stress generally comes from going over budget and scrambling to make ends meet. From the very beginning, allocate the bulk of your budget to the most important details, such as the venue and party catering. It’s much easier to work with less funds for décor and entertainment if you need to.

5. Create backup plans

Minor mishaps can become catastrophes if things go wrong without a backup plan in place. First up, accept the fact that things can and most probably will go wrong. Then, ensure you have secondary options for details that could make or break your event, such as undercover seating for bad weather. 

6. Have realistic expectations

It’s only natural that you want your event to be the best one yet. However, stress comes from having unrealistic expectations and being too hard on yourself if you don’t pull them off. Congratulate yourself on each goal kicked along the way. Don’t sweat the small stuff and quickly move onto other solutions when your expectations aren’t met.

7. Take care of your health

The last tip, but perhaps the most important, is to take extra special care of yourself during event planning. Schedule regular breaks, so you’re able to step back and look at the bigger picture. Avoid eating on the go, get plenty of sleep and don’t stop your exercise routine. When you maintain healthy living, you’ll find your stress levels remain low. This way, you can breeze through event planning and actually enjoy your well-earned success.

And if you’re looking for stress-free catering that will also wow your guests with something different, talk to us at Yummy Dogs. Our hot dog cart offers delicious dogs and traditional relishes on freshly baked buns, and catering is effortless, no matter how many guests you have!