Are you intimidated by planning events? Or maybe you have already done it, and it was just so overwhelming that you don’t plan on doing it again.

We’ve made it easy for you by having a detailed, step-by-step plan of what you need with all of the things to consider!

The Business Mixer Event Project Plan

Business owners and professionals are a great source of referrals and business. Work on growing your professional network by offering business mixers in your area.

There are lot’s of different types of events you can do, you can use this for a business mixer or any form of client party or event you want to host, just making sure you’re looking at all of the details so that you’re taking advantage of that opportunity. Offer something of value in exchange for them giving you that time.

Conversely, start by joining a meet up and participate in one to get a sense of how to do it.

Meet up groups or go check some out to get ideas. Meetup.com has groups of people getting together in your area all the time around various topics of interest. Great networking events and way to meet people.

Planning The Event

Start planning two months ahead of the projected date of your event. Enroll an assistant or support personal to help you with all of the planning, it’s going to be a lot easier to manage all of the details with an extra person to help.

Pick a theme for your event, some ideas include:

• Happy Hour

• Poker / Game Night

• Holiday Party

• Spa Night

• Business Seminar

Determine your budget – you’ll need to provide the following so you’ll want to create a budget first to keep your spending in check.

• Venue

• Entertainment

• Food and drinks

• Photographer

• Digital marketing (i.e. Facebook ads)

• Print collateral (i.e. invitations to hand out in person to business owners)

• Some of these expenditures can be offset by vendors

Remember; this event is an investment in your business to build assets that will benefit you over time!

Pick the time and date – around 7 to 8 p.m. on a Friday or Saturday is normally the best time.

Book your venue and secure your food and drink.

TIP: Look for sponsors who may want to join in on your business mixer to help spread the word about their business AND give you a discount on the food and beverages. 

Choose entertainment for the night that fits into your theme. Some themes may only need props and games for entertainment, while others may require more expensive or live entertainment.

Organize your guest list and send out invitations two months ahead of time. If you send out invitations too late, half of the guests more than likely will not come.

Set a deadline for the RSVP so you can get a good head count well in advance.

Prepare goodie bags depending on the theme of your event. Small gift bags with some promotional items will remind guests about your company and the wonderful experience they received at your mixer!

• A video highlighting the event location or speaker, if applicable

• A blog post detailing the event specifics

• A graphic to post your social media accounts to advertise the event

• A print invitation to personally hand out to business owners