{"id":55151,"date":"2022-09-01T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-01T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/newrcblog.wpengine.com\/us\/en\/blog\/?p=55151"},"modified":"2025-03-13T06:58:43","modified_gmt":"2025-03-13T13:58:43","slug":"event-planning-timeline","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"\/us\/en\/blog\/event-planning-timeline\/","title":{"rendered":"The ultimate event planning timeline"},"content":{"rendered":"

Hopin is now RingCentral Events<\/em><\/p>\n

You\u2019re behind schedule on a major event. Each tick of the clock increases your stress level. That knot forms in your stomach. The wave of impending doom washes over you. Sound familiar?<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s tell it like it is: running low on time when you need it most is universally stressful. But, for events, a lack of time can seriously call into question whether the show will go on \u2013\u2013 or not. For event professionals, not having enough time to plan and execute produces a kind of agony that\u2019s as panic-inducing, as it is spirit-crushing.<\/p>\n

Preserving our collective wellbeing <\/a>should be paramount. So, why not avoid these not-so-enjoyable time crunches and emotions altogether? With that in mind, let\u2019s talk lead time.<\/p>\n

How far in advance should you start planning your event?<\/h2>\n

This is the question that can make all the difference. Whenever possible, give yourself the gift of more time rather than less. Having enough time to produce the caliber of event you want to put on can make or break the entire experience \u2013\u2013 and dictate whether planning your event feels like a fulfilling, organized, step-by-step exercise, or a chaotic rollercoaster ride.<\/p>\n

Assuming we\u2019re aiming for the former sanity-saving scenario, when should you start planning your next event? The timing of your first steps varies based on the size and scale of your event. Makes sense, right? You\u2019d probably need less time to train for a 5-kilometer race than you would to compete in a triathlon, for example. This concept holds true for events, which require intensive preparation (ideally minus the cardio, unless, of course, that\u2019s your thing).<\/p>\n

Use the below timeline to get an idea of when to begin the planning process for your next virtual, in-person, or hybrid event:<\/p>\n

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You know your events best, so think of what\u2019s outlined above as a guidepost, not a set of hard-and-fast rules. Be sure to add some extra cushion to your event timeline when your experience is complex \u2013\u2013 even if your attendee count isn\u2019t high. Here are a few examples of when you might need that extra buffer time:<\/p>\n