Running an event business involves many moving pieces and, as many of us have experienced, sometimes one of those pieces falls out of place. Even the most flawless of plans cannot always prepare for unforeseen circumstances, especially when we must rely on other people to help bring a vision to life.
While there are surely elements of planning an event that cannot be controlled, the one thing every event professional can do is protect their business and its clients with insurance.
Now, insurance tends to be a touchy subject as many people have predisposed opinions about the true value of insurance. Some people are quick to opt for the safest route, while others are more inclined to take a risk if it means saving a few pennies. This goes for business owners and clients alike, but it’s important to recognize that there is far more on the line for those that operate event businesses. Sometimes, problems arise that are out of your control—whether it’s a broken water line or an unexpected storm—and it’s not worth the integrity of your brand.
If you’re on the fence about insurance, consider these three ways it can save your business in the long run.
It protects you and your clients from injury liability.
Hopefully, you’ve never had to deal with an injury at an event but things happen and it’s best to prepare for every possible situation. What happens if somebody trips over a lighting cord because it wasn’t taped down well enough? How would you handle if someone fell on the caterer’s food station and scalded their hands? Without insurance, your business and/or your clients will be expected to shell out on medical bills—or, worse, you may have a long and exhausting lawsuit on your hands. Ultimately, insurance will safeguard you and your clients from any accidents on behalf of anyone on the vendor team.
It covers worst-case scenarios.
Natural disasters, fires, no-show vendors—think about all of the possible things that could go wrong that are outside of your control. If an event is cancelled due to bad weather or a power outage, insurance will help you recoup those losses and help keep your business in the black. What if a vendor doesn’t show up for the event? Or, what if a photographer’s camera is stolen and all of the photos are lost? Your clients will surely want their money back (and it’s their right!), so insurance will provide compensation and simplify the process for everyone.
It shows clients you’re serious.
Beyond business protections, insurance also demonstrates to clients that you have high standards and will protect their events at all costs. While this could turn away some people, it will attract those who appreciate the guarantee of a safe and risk-free event experience. For those tend to be averse to insurance, step in to educate them about the importance of risk management and how it can protect them and their assets throughout the process. If you want to provide a top-notch luxury experience, insurance is a must.
When you up your standards, you up your clientele. You must first take yourself seriously if you want others to do the same, so it’s essential to take the steps in creating a safe and seamless planning experience. Planning an event is a financial and emotional investment; being insured shows clients you take it just as seriously as they do and ensures them their event is in good hands.
Lead photo courtesy Mike B Photography
