It’s A Match! Why Looking For Event Suppliers Is Like Online Dating

eharmony, Hinge, Happn . . . HOPP? Ok, so it might seem odd to compare event planning to online dating but bear with us – navigating a digital sea of suppliers isn’t actually too different from searching for that special someone on the world wide web.

Much like seeking a romantic match, there’s some things you need to consider when looking for the right team to make your event dreams come true. You need to be sure that you click, that there’s genuine connection, authentic chemistry and a real vibe going on between the two of you. Before you dive into the world of event suppliers, here are some lessons that we’ve learned from digital dating that will help you in your quest to find the perfect match.

1) Click or Clash

The first thing you’ve got to ask yourself when reviewing a supplier’s profile is, “are we going to click or clash?”. Any kind of collaboration requires compromise but you’ve got to be more-or-less  on the same page. Let’s say you’re allergic to cats (or maybe you just can’t stand their smug aloofness) – it’s likely that you’re going to swipe right past someone who poses with their feline friend in every single profile pic. It’s just not compatible. Compatibility can range from practical considerations like physical location (can you commit to a long-distance relationship or are you going to need frequent face-to-face meetings?) to personality traits (are you looking for a leader to take the wheel on decision making or are you a perfectionist who wants sign-off at all stages)? Every supplier has their own way of working and while there is no wrong way, there might be a right way for you.

2) First Impressions

Come off your high horse – this isn’t as shallow as it sounds. Of course, it’s not all about looks and appearances but there’s no denying that first impressions play a part in any relationship. If you’re telling us that profile photos don’t play into your decision making when scrolling through potential suitors online, we’re going to call your bluff. There’s no shame in it! You can tell a lot from a person through their photos and the same goes for event companies. Looking at portfolios of previous work is key to making your decision. It’s the best way of assessing their aesthetic, seeing what they could bring to your event and ultimately, figuring out whether or not they are your ‘type’.

3) Shared Priorities

Here’s where the heart comes into it. If you’re very passionate about something, you need to find a match who shares this with you, or at least respects its importance to you. For example, if you’re an ardent environmentalist planning your wedding, you’ll probably best click with a catering company who specialises in locally-sourced vegetarian meals and a decorator committed to using only sustainable materials. Or maybe it’s always been a dream of yours to have a hanging floral centrepiece at your 21st birthday? Find someone who is going to support that dream and stand by your side as they make it come true.

4) Fair Expectations

You need to choose someone based on who they are, not who you want them to be. If you’re a gym bunny who’s looking for someone to spot you at 5.30am every morning, don’t set up a date with a club promoter who’s up until 3am every night. Likewise, if your ideal Friday evening is a Netflix marathon, don’t swipe yes to the person that’s living for weekend-long raves. The same goes for event planning. Consider what you’re looking for and choose accordingly. Save everyone time and disappointment by being realistic and transparent with your budget and vision from the outset. Planning an event can be stressful so make it easier on yourself by choosing the right team to pull it off.

5) Respecting Boundaries

“Boundaries”– it’s a term that we’re all hearing a lot more of these days, and it’s an important one to consider at the start of any relationship. Establishing and respecting healthy boundaries gives both parties a clear idea of the other one’s comfort zone and limits. When it comes to event planning, boundaries are key to ensuring that the process doesn’t become overwhelming. Set clear budgets with your suppliers and make sure that they can comfortably deliver on your vision within it. If you have specific dietary requirements tell your caterer, if there’s a type of flower you simply cannot stand, tell your florist, and if you can only communicate with your planner via email or outside office hours, make sure they know that. Set your boundaries before you start your working relationship to avoid any nasty surprises down the line.

HOPP TOP TIP:

If you’ve ever looked to close a chapter of singledom in your life, in true 21st century fashion, you’ve probably sought the help of a trusty dating website or app. When we’re feeling a little romantic, that’s how we like to envisage HOPP – the digital cupid and online match maker of the event planning world. Let us help you find those special someones in our wonderful community to create your magical event and ensure that it is remembered happily ever after . . .