Five No-Tech Tools Every Event Planner Needs

As an event management professional, As an event management professional, no-tech tools are indispensable. In addition to your technological toolkit, there are certain non-tech items every event planner needs in their arsenal. These basic tools – although low-tech – are every bit as important as your Smartphone in keeping your events running smoothly.

You may recall, I’ve maintained at several points in the past that an event planner should never let technology control them. Today’s post looks at exactly this idea: don’t let your passion for high-tech toys cause you to lose sight of valuable, no-tech, old school stuff every event planner needs in their toolkit.

A Portable Toiletry Case

First and foremost, every event planner should carry around a small toiletry case with all the basics needed to ‘freshen up’ while on the show floor. This toiletry kit should include amenities such as a comb, deodorant, mouthwash/a toothbrush, make-up/touch-up, and possibly even a razor.

Tip: toothpaste is vital, but don’t forget to pack a basic, person first-aid kit. Band-aids always come in handy.  

Office Supplies

Although we’ve started to make the move over to digital, we’ve not quite gotten there yet. You’re still going to need to sign the occasional contract, fill out the occasional survey, or hand out the occasional business card. With that in mind, you should always keep office supplies such as pens, notepaper and pads, a stapler, paperclips, and business cards on-hand.

You don’t need a huge quantity of every back-up office supply, but include your basic, most useful items.

Hardware

No, I’m not talking about stuff like tablets or laptops. I’m talking about tools such as a screwdriver and a hammer and nail. While you shouldn’t be hauling around a full tool-belt, carrying an Allen Key or two along with a multi-tool is a great idea in the event that you need to carry out a last-minute fix-up.

Remember the old adage that Duck Tape can fix any problem. Yes, have a role of Duck Tape handy.

Food & Water

It’s pretty easy to lose track of time – particularly if you’re dealing with the stress of running an event. Unfortunately, it’s way too easy to forget your basic needs – such as keeping yourself hydrated and fed. You’re rushing around from one end of the floor to the other end; you might not have time to stop and take care of yourself.

You should always carry a water bottle and pack a few snacks. Make it convenient for yourself to fuel up and you’ll be far likelier to do so.

A Decent Bag

Last but certainly not least, you need something in which you can carry all of the tools listed above. Invest in a high-quality tote bag, backpack, or briefcase. Make sure your bag has enough storage space, and that it is well organized and easily accessed. Ease of use is the key consideration here; your storage medium should be incredibly simple to carry around with you. We recommend a small suitcase on wheels.

Bonus tidbit: pack a change of clothes! A full day’s events are often followed by a sponsored dinner or cocktail hour. The best way to freshen up is to wash your face, brush your teeth and change your clothes!

In Closing

With all the new toys surfacing lately in the event management field, it’s easy to lose sight of the basics. Doing so is a mistake. Make use of all the technology you like, but never forget your no-tech, low-tech basics!