Whats the Difference Between Event Management and Event Production

event production vs event management

If you've ever hosted an event, you know that it's no easy task. Putting on a good event can be tricky. There is a lot of prep work and planning that goes on behind the scenes that attendees don't often see. All of this preparation work is to ensure that the event is a success and runs smoothly. Between securing a venue, hiring a catering company, deciding on event staff, and many other logistics that go into event planning, it can quickly become quite an overwhelming task. However, hosting an event doesn't have to be so difficult and hiring professionals to help you through the process of your event is always a great idea. These professionals are highly trained, have extensive experience in the event industry and do a great job at carrying out your needs and desires for your specific event.

Event Management vs Event Production  

When it comes to hiring these professionals to assist you with your event, you generally have a two options to choose from. Regardless of which type of company you decide to go with, or if you decide to choose both, one thing is for sure: They are there to make your event planning simpler.

Two disciplines that you may look into when searching for assistance with an event are "event management" and "event production" companies. While the terms "event management" and "event production" are often used interchangeably, there are a few specific differences that set these two types of companies apart. In this article we are going to discuss these said differences and also discuss how event management and event production can work hand in hand to execute a successful and unforgettable event that your guests won't be able to stop raving about.

Event Management

event management

The first type of company that you can hire for your events is an event management company. Event management refers to the entire process of an event from start to finish. This includes planning, organizing, coordinating, and executing the event. Event management companies focus on the overall strategic planning of an event. This includes but is not limited to: scheduling, budgeting, venue selection, catering, event staffing, handling permits and legalities, technology, parking, and vendor collaboration.

What Is Event Production

what is event production

Another type of company that can be utilized to assist you with your events is an event production company. Event production generally focuses less on the actual planning of the event and rather on the physical side of things. This includes the setup and decorating of events, the breaking down of events, running the technology of the event, and making sure all the equipment for the event is in order and working.

Both event management and event production have the same end goal, but where the difference lies is in their varying approaches. Think of event management as the brains behind the event, handling all the logistics. In this case, event production would be the heart of the operation, filling the event with imagination, creativity, and flair. Another area where they differ is the scope of what they pay attention to. Event management tends to focus more on the big picture whereas event production focuses on the smaller and more specific details of the event. The timeline of when these companies get involved also varies. Event management tends to get involved during the preparation stages of an operation and once they have laid a solid foundation, this is when event production steps in to bring these plans and ideas to life and set the scene for the event.

event production meeting

After looking at all the differences between event management and event production, you might be thinking that they are two completely different worlds. However, despite their differences, they are actually two peas in the same pod that can work together seamlessly to make your event a hit. Collaboration between event management and event production results in a shared vision. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal. When the logistical side of management and the creative side of production combine, it always results in an efficient and spectacular event. Both areas rely on the other for varying reasons. Event management relies on production to bring their ideas and plans to life for the event, whereas event production relies on management to support and guide them through the process.

In the crazy world of the event industry, event management and event production are both essential to the success of any event. While event management focuses on the strategic planning of all logistical elements, event production brings the creative vision to life through technical expertise and innovative design. The teamwork between these two disciplines is extremely crucial to the success of any event and through understanding what each discipline brings too the table, event planners can utilize their combined strength to host an incredible event.

Previous
Previous

Types of Bar Service for Private Events

Next
Next

How to Hire a Bartender for a Private Party