1st July 2015

Being An Event Host – Tip No. 63 – Briefing Meetings

For nearly every event where I’m to be the host there’s a briefing meeting, or possibly two.

Around a table is usually the event organiser, a representative from the location and their assistants. Central to the meeting will be the running order of the event itself. This, of course, can chop and change..and frequently does! So from my perspective, it’s important to get a proper handle on what will happen on the night (or the day) well in advance.

As I’ve mentioned in a previous post, it’s essential you get on with the people who are in charge of the sound and lighting – another essential is the technical rehearsal with the AV crew the night before the event (if possible) – sometimes a second run through is required but it’s important that you work as a team. This of course applies to everybody who’s involved.

After a briefing meeting, I like to know three main things:

1. What time should I arrive? (I always allow an extra hour)

2. What time is the technical rehearsal?

3. What are the transport arrangements?

On top of these, there’s a second three:

1. Mobile numbers of key people.

2. What is the dress code?

3. Have a Plan “B” ready just in case.