Event Planning Glossary

Your comprehensive guide to event planning terminology

A

AV

Audio/Visual equipment and services used in events, including sound systems, projectors, screens, and lighting.

Technical

B

BEO

Banquet Event Order - A detailed document outlining all arrangements for a catered function, including menu, setup, timing, and special requirements.

Catering

C

Call Time

The designated time when staff, performers, or vendors should arrive at an event.

Planning

D

Dry Hire

Renting a venue without any additional services like catering or staffing.

Venues

E

Event Flow

The planned sequence of activities and timing during an event.

Planning

F

FOH

Front of House - The public-facing areas of an event venue and the staff who work in them.

Venues

G

Green Room

A private room for speakers, performers, or VIPs to prepare and relax before and during an event.

Venues

H

Hold

A temporary reservation on a venue, date, or service pending final confirmation.

Planning

I

In-House

Services or equipment provided directly by the venue rather than external vendors.

Venues

L

Load-In

The process of bringing equipment, decorations, and supplies into a venue before an event.

Technical

M

Minimum Spend

The minimum amount a client must spend on food, beverages, or services as part of their venue contract.

Financial

O

OOO

Out Of Office - Important to note when key team members will be unavailable during event planning.

Planning

P

Per Head

Cost or calculation based on the number of attendees.

Financial

R

Run Sheet

A detailed timeline of an event, including all activities, responsibilities, and technical requirements.

Planning

S

Site Visit

An in-person inspection of a potential venue or event location.

Planning

Strike

The process of dismantling and removing equipment and decorations after an event.

Technical

T

Turn Time

The time needed to reset a room or space between different events or sessions.

Planning

V

Venue Capacity

The maximum number of people allowed in a venue, often varying based on setup style.

Venues

W

Walk-Through

A detailed on-site review of event plans with key stakeholders.

Planning

Z

Zero Hour

The official start time of an event, used as a reference point for scheduling.

Planning

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