I know, everyone is talking about the GFC. We have had our first conference fall over because of it! So I thought maybe it was time I did a list of things you can do to keep the costs down for your event - so you can still have it.
1. Don't print anything. Do it all via email. Invest in the design for a cool e-newsletter that will catch people's attention, and save the postage.
2. Cut back on theming for dinners. You can be really creative with props from Crazy Clarks, and let's face it, your guests will probably nick the centrepieces anyway. Perhaps invest in the services of a good creative person, but tell them to think outside the box with what you use for the theming. Or try having your dinner at a unique venue, that doesn't need to be themed!
3. Try using edible centrepieces - check out Edible Blooms. That way you can pay for a two course lunch/dinner, and people can eat the choccies (or fruit) from the middle of the table.
4. Twin share your staff accommodation. If they are used to being in single rooms, just tell them that the economy is dictating this. And it might be fun!
5. Some hotels are really feeling it, so now is the time to get some fantastic special deals!
Now is the time to keep your meetings going. The tough times are when everyone needs to band together and move in the same direction. Meetings give you the platform to spread some optimism instead of the doom and gloom, even if you do it on a budget.
J ;-)
Iceberg Events - conference and events planners based in Brisbane but organising events anywhere