e're often asked, "Do we need a Coordinator?" and "What does the Venue Manager do?". Each roll is completely separate, though we think that they are the two most important functions during any event.
Your Coordinator (or Planner)
Yes, a coordinator is required. An event without one is, well, uncoordinated. Hosts may have a month of coordinator or full blown planner, we simply want the logistics of the day executed to plan.
Coordinators are onsite for the entire event and control every aspect of the event, including floor plan, vendor management, decoration, set-up/ breakdown - everything. They are like the conductors of the orchestra. A great coordinator will make life easy for you. Unfortunately, it's very easy for coordinators to hang a shingle, so pick wisely. To help, we've written an article on how we think a host should select a coordinator. We do have a list of recommended coordinators with which may want to start.
Our Venue Manager: The Pilot
The Venue Manager at Dragon Park is different that what you'll find at other venues. Our venue manager is what we refer to as the pilot to the plane.
Our manager controls all the "levers" of the building, including the audio, video, lighting and HVAC systems. Call them a building tech if you like. Given their importance, it's great having one onsite for the duration of an event. Kinda like having a pilot if you're flying, it's good to have one.
Our venue managers will, among other things, assist DJs/ Bands connect to our audio system and help perform a sound check, project an event image on our walls or dancefloor/ entry, and set a desired lighting color with our extensive LED atmospheric lighting. They can also answer your vendors' questions.
Our venue managers are all well qualified, so there is no need to know who will be there for your event. Our venue manager will work closely with the coordinator at the event.
And to drive home our pilot analogy, here's a clip of the great Bobby Darin singing Ruby Baby (after our other venue of course) as he drinks a cocktail and flies the plane, with the window open. We aspire to fly the plane like Dion.
