(Show Notes: Season 1, Episode 1)

This is the summary of the premier episode of the How to Event Podcast, Pandemic Planning: Contracts & Cancellations! I am so excited to be sharing this information with the masses and providing a one-stop-shop and resource for ordinary folks who want to plan the most memorable events possible. As our world is currently revolving around the developing COVID-19 crisis, I would be in remiss if I did not address this topic first and foremost.

Event hosts are experiencing heightened challenges in wedding and event planning during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The How to Event Podcast will be featuring content in this first “mini-season” to help everyday people safely plan their events, or protect themselves in the event of cancellation or postponement.

This first episode installment in the Pandemic Planning Mini-Season focuses on the important aspects of contracts and cancellations to be aware of in this unusual climate. Specifically, I discuss:

• How to review contracts and protect yourself and your event.
• Specific sections/clauses to review in your event contracts.
• Force Majeure
• Cancellation Policy and Non-Refundable Retainers
• Hotel Room Blocks: Attrition
• Steps to cancelling your event during a pandemic (or anytime)
• Alternatives to cancelling your event

For more information about Force Majeure clauses, how they can be applied, and how it may (or may not) work in your favor during the pandemic, check out this article from the American Bar Association that covers this topic in detail.

While reviewing your contracts after-the-fact is clearly important now that there is a need (i.e. COVID-19), this simply proves how crucial understanding your contract is from the start. Going forward, ensure that you read and comprehend all aspects of any contract you enter into for your event. This could include (but is not limited to): venues, caterer, vendors (photographer, florist, planner, etc.), transportation, etc. This is the first step to successful event planning!

Continue the conversation and ask your questions by joining the How To Event Facebook Group. Or you can keep up with us on Instagram by following @HowToEvent.

Season 1, Episode 2 (coming July 2nd, 2020) will further discuss alternative options to cancelling your wedding or event.