Payden A.

I know, we all wish that every detail of each event would execute as planned… however we all know that’s not the reality of live events. Have alternative plans you can dump to or side step toward to mitigate the effects. Rain? No problem, we have a rain venue. Lighting fixtures not working? All good because you negotiated backup fixtures with your AV partner at no cost. It’s about learning to see and anticipate problems before they arise, and having proactively addressed and solved them.

I never consider myself the smartest person in the room. In fact, my goal is to consistently build out a team of left and right brained individuals who bring dynamic perspective and creative thought. Once you understand the strengths of each of these contributors, empower them to carry the vision forward. Hopefully you’ve defined your North Star, your goals and the metrics by which you weigh choices and measure successes- And since everyone on your team should be in-tune with one another, you can collectively move the various aspects of the event consistently forward, TOGETHER!

I’ll keep it simple- What’s your North Star? How can you use its’ guiding light to inform each of the creative choices you make? This can help you to find consistency in your storytelling, messaging and intent for your the event while also providing an experience that is well conceived and thoughtfully fleshed out.

I make it my MISSION to effectively communicate. An important task you have as a producer is to understand how to effectively communicate to you client in a way that works for THEM. Visuals? Make a plan with detailed tenders, mood boards and samples. Scope of work through detailed budget breakdowns? Make a plan with budget breakdowns and effective notes with alternate scenarios. Email? Email often! In person? Capitalize on your time and ensure each meeting has deliverables you need answers to, then recap it before leaving. Remember that you’re partners in the success of this event- Effective communication about all things, good and bad, will be key.

Some people will say, “there are no bad ideas” RED FLAG! There are a lot of bad ideas, but be willing to get creative in sussing out the good from the bad. As I always say when someone asks how things are going, knowing full well it’s not going well, I say, “ Making lemonade!” I know that through my creativity, I can turn the sourest lemons into the sweetest lemonade.

When choosing between candidates, I’ll always choose the person hungry to learn and grow. Be that person, and be reliable in your ability to get anything done.