What’s in my Event Planner Emergency Kit | @jessicalarotta

Part of being an event planner it’s not only important to be organized and detailed but to also be prepared for the worse at any given moment.  Part of the worse possible scenarios is not only the big stuff such as losing power, weather problems or even catering mishaps.  What about mishaps with your centerpiece or setup/event or your guests or staff feeling ill, getting a stain or having a wardrobe malfunction.   I’m sure many of us have experience one of these!

Many things can go wrong but you can eliminate much of the stress and frustration by preparing ahead. As I prepare for my clients event whether corporate or social a big part of my preparation is making sure I have everything I need in my Emergency Kits. Yes Kits! I keep 2 different types of kits one which will save my event details and one which will save my client, myself or my staff!!

The fist step to creating an emergency kit is finding a carrying solution for your items, this can be a large Tupperware or hard shelled suitcase.   As well you might want to even think about having a hip back to store small needed items you can carry at all times. Now it’s time to go shopping for all the items you need but now you’re wondering what do I buy? When preparing your shopping list start thinking through some of the many mishaps that can happen. You might want to consider: What can happen to my decor or event setup? What might your client/guests need in case of an emergency or what have they forgotten?

Here are some suggestions of things my client may need that we continue to add as different scenarios happen:

• Small first aid kit
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and mouth wash
• Mints or gum
• Hand sanitizer
• Contact solution
• Tissues
• Tide Sticks or Clorox bleach pen
• Lint Roller
• Charger with different charging tips
• Safety Pins, double sided tape
• Hair Goods: hairspray, bobby pins, hair ties, brush or comb
• Mirror
• Makeup
• Travel sewing kit
• Static cling spray or dryer sheets
• Bites: granola bars and water
• Feminine hygiene products
• Sunscreen
• Spray deodorant
• Baby wipes
• Unscented bug spray (for outdoor events)
• Nail clipper
• Scissors
• Baby powder
• Dr. Schols foot pads
• Hand lotion or body spray
• Pills for ill guests: Advil, tylenol, tums, immodium
• ear plugs
• Nail polish remover/cotton balls

As you prepare for the big event day, it is always important to have everything you need to get your day going. Items such as your timeline, floorplan, agenda and clients agenda readily available as well as multiple copies for any and all parties involved. Now it’s time to prepare your second emergency “working” kit.  Keep in mind that your emergency working kit can change due to project or client needs but these are typically the core items I need to keep my sanity.

Some items to include are:

• Screwdriver, pliers, wire cutters
• Scissors
• Blades or pocket knife
• Different types of tape: scotch, electrical, masking, gaffers tape and double sided tape
• Paper clips, binder clips
• Power strip, extension cords, converters
• Twist ties, fishing line, zip ties
• Sharpies in all colors
• Measuring tape
• Adhesive hooks and tape
• Floral tape
• Windex
• Paper Towels
• Flash drive
• Flash light
• Velcro
• Batteries

Last but not least it’s always important to carry your patience, sanity and a smile!

We would love to hear what is in your emergency kit.

Click on this link for a downloadable Emergency Kit Checklist