Planning The Perfect Social Event: Four Essential Steps To Begin Planning

At LaBelle Winery, we host a wide spectrum of social celebrations – from intimate rehearsal dinners and celebrations of life to milestone birthdays, retirement parties, and family reunions. In this first guide of our planning series, I’ll focus on celebratory occasions like showers, birthdays, and anniversaries.

What makes an event “social”? At LaBelle, these are personal celebrations distinct from weddings, non-profit gatherings, and corporate functions. My team and I are here to guide you through every step of the event planning process, making what might seem overwhelming feel effortless and enjoyable. Let’s break down the essential first steps to creating your perfect celebration in four easy steps!

1. Building Your Planning Team

Before diving into the details, consider who should be involved in the planning process:

• Does your guest of honor want to participate in the planning, or would they prefer a surprise?
• Are there specific family members or friends who should be included in the event planning?
• Who will be the primary point of contact with the venue?

Erin’s Helpful Insight: Having one designated planner ensures smooth communication! I’ll work directly with your point of contact to keep everything streamlined and stress-free. If some guests—such as the honoree’s partner or friends—won’t be attending the shower but want to stay close by, I can help schedule a fun activity like golf at The Links at LaBelle to keep them entertained while the event is underway.

For bridal and baby showers, I’ve seen it all: some honorees love being involved in every detail, while others prefer to walk in and be surprised. There’s no wrong approach – it’s all about what makes your guest of honor comfortable and excited.

2. Creating Your Guest List

Your guest list is the foundation of your event planning – it influences everything from venue selection to menu planning. Here’s what I typically see:

Bridal/Wedding Showers:

• Consider whether to keep the guest list intimate with close family and friends or expand to include coworkers and extended social circles.
• Many couples now incorporate a “grand finale,” where partners join at the end to help with gifts and celebrate together.

Erin’s Helpful Insight: If you’re unsure how many guests our spaces can accommodate, I can help! I’ll guide you in choosing the right room at our venue that best fits your vision and guest count.

Baby Showers:

• Some parents-to-be opt for a family-friendly baby shower, inviting children to celebrate alongside adults. Consider activities or a designated kids’ area if little ones will be in attendance.
• Guest lists can vary—some showers are intimate, with close family and friends, while others are larger gatherings that include coworkers and extended networks.

Erin’s Helpful Insight: Ask me about space setups, activity packages we offer, and kids’ meals here at LaBelle! We have engaging activities to keep little ones busy so everyone has a great time.

Erin’s Helpful Insight: I can help you find the perfect space, whether you want a small, intimate setting or a larger celebration with plenty of room to mingle.

Birthday Celebrations & Anniversary Parties:

• Focus on those who truly celebrate and support your guest(s) of honor.
• Consider consulting close friends or family members who know their inner circle well.

Erin’s Helpful Insight: If you’re unsure who to invite, I recommend starting with a core group and expanding from there. Our flexible event spaces can accommodate a wide range of guest counts.

3. Timing is Everything

Bridal/Wedding Showers:

Consider spacing out pre-wedding events (think one celebration per month), leaving the final month before the wedding free for last-minute preparations. For example, if the wedding is in August, aim for a June shower that doesn’t conflict with other pre-wedding festivities.

Erin’s Helpful Insight: Let me know the guest of honors wedding date! I’ll help you plan a timeline that ensures a smooth flow of events leading up to the big day.

Baby Showers:

The sweet spot is typically 6-8 weeks before the due date. This timing is especially important if the parent-to-be is traveling from out of state.

Erin’s Helpful Insight: I can help you select a date that ensures a stress-free celebration, especially if your honoree is traveling.

Birthday Celebrations & Anniversary Parties:

While celebrating on the actual date is wonderful, don’t hesitate to schedule for the weekend before or after. Just be mindful of nearby holidays that might affect guest attendance.

Erin’s Helpful Insight: Not sure about potential scheduling conflicts? I can advise on the best dates to ensure great attendance and a lively atmosphere for your celebration.

4. Choosing THE PERFECT LaBelle Location

With our stunning properties in both Amherst and Derry, NH, you have options! Consider:

• Which location is most convenient for the majority of your guests?
• What type of atmosphere matches your vision?
• What space best accommodates your guest count?

Erin’s Helpful Insight: Not sure which location would be best? I’m here to help! If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure which space fits your event best, let me guide you. I’ll help you navigate the options and find the perfect fit.

Ready to start planning?

Erin is here to help you choose the perfect space and begin bringing your vision to life. Contact her today to start the conversation about hosting your upcoming event at LaBelle Winery!

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Email Erin Rock: erin@experiencelabelle.com

Call Erin Rock: (603) 672-9898 ext. 100

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