Keep Hidden Costs at Bay: 5 Smart Tips for a Seamless Event Styling Experience

Hey there, party planner! 🎉 Planning an event is thrilling, but those sneaky hidden costs can definitely throw a spanner in the works. Once you’ve nailed down a quote with your event stylist, you want to avoid any surprises. So, here are my top five tips to help you dodge those unexpected expenses and keep everything running smoothly:

1. Go for a Refundable Mock-Up

Here’s a little gem of advice: think about getting a refundable mock-up of your event setup before you fully commit. It’s like a dry run for your big day! You get to see a scaled version of your vision and make any necessary tweaks. The best part? If you decide to go ahead with the quote, the mock-up cost usually gets credited towards your final payment. Win-win!

2. Have a Clear Vision from the Start

Imagine trying to put together a jigsaw puzzle without the picture on the box—pretty tricky, right? That’s why having a clear and detailed vision for your event is so important. Be upfront with your event stylist about exactly what you want. From colour schemes and themes to specific decorations and layouts, the more detailed you are, the less likely you are to face unexpected costs or miscommunications later on.

3. Stick to the Plan—No Last-Minute Add-Ons

Here’s the deal: once you’ve agreed on a quote, try not to add extra items or make changes unless absolutely necessary. Any additions or last-minute changes can lead to extra charges. If you’re thinking of adding something new, have a chat with your stylist before finalising the quote. This way, everything you need is included in the original price, and you won’t be hit with any surprise costs.

4. Be Clear About Set-Up and Collection Times

Nailing down the set-up and collection times is crucial. Make sure you and your stylist are on the same page about when they’ll arrive to set up and when they’ll come back to collect their props. If you have any changes in your schedule, let them know ASAP to avoid extra fees for extended rental periods or overtime. It’s all about keeping things on track!

5. Don’t Overlook the Details—Big and Small

This one’s a biggie: make sure you cover all the little details of your event. This includes guest sizes, the gift table, welcome signage, and any other elements you might overlook. The more details you provide, the better your quote will reflect the actual cost of your event. No forgotten areas mean no surprise charges!

There you go—my top tips for avoiding those sneaky hidden costs and keeping your event styling budget-friendly. If you’re after a team that truly listens to your vision and delivers without the stress, get in touch with us at Lush & Lavish Events. We’d love to help you create something truly unforgettable!