Spoiler alert: The size of your clipboard does say something about your event planner.

Ever spot an event planner gliding through chaos with a massive clipboard in hand? That’s not just for show. Inside that binder-on-steroids is every detail that keeps the event on track — timelines, contracts, tech specs, vendor contacts, entertainment notes, backup plans… the works.

And while we’re all digital now (yes, iPads count), the point is this: Great event planners don’t show up on event day hoping it all works out. The work is done in advance — mapped, confirmed, documented, and double-checked.

Still, even with flawless planning, things can go sideways. Misread tech riders. Payment disputes. A vendor who ghosts at load-in. We’ve seen it all. But when every detail is at your fingertips — paper or digital — you stay in control and keep the chaos contained.

Recently, at one of our largest events ever, a flurry of early-morning curveballs came flying in. But because we had every answer in hand, every issue was handled quietly, quickly, and professionally — no drama, no delay.

---

So here’s the real advice:

• If you’re a planner: Build your system. Know your stuff. Have the receipts.
• If you’re hiring one: Choose someone whose clipboard — physical or virtual — is bursting with experience, not guesswork.

Because on event day, the details aren’t just details. They’re everything.

---

About the Author:
Michelle Smith is Co-Founder of Real Communications, a boutique event and communications agency based in Toronto, and co-creator of Real Event Tools — expert, downloadable templates designed to keep planners sharp and events seamless.

---