Social StudentAs we grind our way through our third national lockdown here in the UK, it can be hard to see the wood for the trees. Depending on where you are, it might feel like you haven’t been out of lockdown since the summer. However, better times are on their way and we will soon be looking to plan some (socially distanced) celebrations to kiss goodbye to this long cold winter and ring in happier, warmer, less COVID-19-focused days ahead. If you’re looking to put on a big event later in the year, you’re going to need to make sure that you have the right equipment. Here are a few of the key areas you’re going to want to have covered.
Where Are You Going To Host It?
The government is preaching caution when it comes how quickly we are going to be leaving lockdown and the speed with which things will return to normal when we do, so if you are set on hosting an event, you are going to need to think very carefully about your location. It goes without saying that planning an indoor event for a lot of people is probably asking for trouble at this point, as it seems likely that there will still be strict limitations on numbers for some months to come. So, with that in mind, think about the pros and cons of the outdoor spaces available near you. Are they accessible enough? Can you provide cover in the event of inclement weather? Can you get permission for the size of event you want to put on? Researching the answers to these questions will take time so start planning now.
What Kind Of Equipment Are You Going To Need?
This is never something that you want to leave to the last minute. That is how you end up with a stage laden with equipment that is not getting the job done and a lot of very angry people asking questions you don’t have the answers to. So, before you get started, ask yourself some simple questions instead: what do you need for your event, what is your budget, and how are you going to get it to your location? If you have a clear plan, then you will be able to find an AV supplier with the expertise to recommend the right equipment for your purposes at a price range that won’t tank your budget. Energy AV Sales offers an incredible range of lighting, sound, and effects gear, as well as cables and rigging hardware, and their sales team can talk through your requirements in detail.
Can You Stay Flexible And Stay Safe?
As we mentioned, planning any kind of event during this pandemic has been a bit like walking through a minefield, but as the seasons change we should start to see more and more opportunities for outdoor events opening up. However, staying flexible on your date and location will inevitably be a huge bonus as we have seen that lockdowns can come in overnight.
It is also worth bearing in mind that you will almost certainly be asked by the authorities how you plan to ensure the safety of anyone attending and minimise the risk of infection. Make sure that the area where you plan on hosting the event offers enough room for proper social distancing, that you can provide anyone working at the event with the proper PPE, and that you have a clearly defined and effective cleaning strategy. One day, these issues will be a thing of the past, but for the moment you absolutely must go above and beyond to make sure that you have all your bases covered.