Reflecting on 2024: Lessons Learned as an Event Planner
As the year comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the experiences and lessons learned throughout 2024. From navigating unexpected challenges to embracing new trends, each event brought unique insights that shaped my growth as a planner and a small business owner. Here are the top lessons I’m taking with me into 2025:
1. Write Down and Share Your Goals
Back in 2021, as I envisioned starting my own business, I attended a virtual workshop on manifestation hosted by Mysha, a mom group reimagined. In the exercise, we wrote down our vision for our future and shared it with a small group. I was a bit skeptical as the facilitator explained that manifesting does not happen overnight…it can take time, but identifying your goals and putting them out in the world is the key. Indeed, I wrote down my vision for starting my business and included an ambitious earnings goal, then shared it out loud. I’m proud to say, three years later, I exceeded the earnings goal I had manifested. I now have a new financial goal for 2025. On a smaller scale, I write down a weekly personal or work goal every Sunday to help me prioritize for the week and stay focused.
Takeaway: Write down your goals, share them, and dream big - be patient but optimistic.
2. Build a Great Team
Behind every successful event is a dedicated team of professionals who bring their expertise and creativity to the table. In 2024, I was reminded time and time again how crucial it is to build strong relationships with vendors, freelancers, and team members. From brainstorming sessions to execution day, collaboration was key to delivering seamless events. I am grateful for my Events Coordinator, Rhys Hanley, and the amazing freelancers and vendors who make the magic happen.
Takeaway: Invest time in assembling a reliable and talented team and network of trusted vendors and freelancers. Empower them to shine in their roles—because teamwork truly makes the dream work.
3. Technology Is Transforming Events—Embrace It
This fall, The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans keynote speaker, Fei Fei Li, gave the memorable advice: “Certainty is the enemy of creativity. Do not be afraid of uncertainty.” As a pioneer in artificial intelligence, her words ring true every time I hesitate to embrace change. Technology is enhancing events from event apps to virtual walk-throughs for venue tours to AI-driven event registration tools. The integration of tech has improved the guest experience and streamlined planning processes. We are excited to see the evolution of tools in 2025.
Takeaway: Stay curious and open to adopting new tech tools. They can elevate your events and improve efficiency.
4. Mission Driven Events Win Hearts and Clients
Early on in my planning journey, I identified the need to work with mission-focused organizations aligned with my values, including supporting women in business. This year, we were thrilled to work with BBG Ventures, an early-stage fund leading investments in women & diverse founders, for the third year in a row. We also collaborated with a new client, Female Founders Fund, on an incredible founders retreat in the Hamptons. Both events included personal touches that tied to their missions in supporting female founders. Among many production tasks, we managed the speakers including the queen herself, Martha Stewart.
Takeaway: Clients value authenticity. Take the time to understand their vision and find creative ways to bring it to life.
5. Take Care of Yourself to Take Care of Others
Event planning can be exhilarating, but it’s also demanding. This September, I produced back to back milestone birthday celebrations, two venture capital events for New York Climate Week, and my first gala for a nonprofit, all while school started for my children. Any parent can attest that September is a crazy month, even without five events to produce. So how did that work for me? Well, I got shingles, the virus caused by stress! It was brutal but also a wake up call - I took on too much, too fast, and my body was telling me to slow down.
Takeaway: Burnout helps no one. Rest and recharge so you can deliver your best work.
As I look ahead to 2025, I’m filled with excitement and gratitude for the opportunities and challenges that 2024 brought. Each lesson I’ve learned this year will guide me as I continue to create events that inspire, connect, and celebrate life’s moments. Here’s to another year of growth and unforgettable events!
What lessons have you learned in 2024? I’d love to hear your reflections in the comments below!
