Event Design Toolkit
“Gatherings crackle and flourish when real thought goes into them, when (often invisible) structure is baked into them, and when a host has the curiosity, willingness, and generosity of spirit to try.” ― Priya Parker, The Art of GatheringAt Spirit & Place, we believe well-designed events can be transformative. Creating engaging events means intentionally planning for your audience to think, feel, and/or do something!
The following help sheets, worksheets, checklists, and more have been designed to help you create the most dynamic and impactful event possible!
Use the section below to pick and choose from what interests you or download our entire Event Design Toolkit here.
Event Design Toolkit
A sense of passion and excitement should drive your event. Before you dive into planning, however, take a step back and assess where that passion comes from and what your intentions are.
Event Intentionality WorksheetThere is no such thing as “the general public.” Take the time to really think about who your audience is and what they need from you.
Audience WorksheetUse this tip sheet to consider basic accessibility steps when planning your event.
Event Accessibility Tip SheetPlease see our handout Virtual Event Tips for advice on how to design virtual events and effectively communicate expectations to attendees. This handout is specific to Zoom with emphasis on Zoom’s accessibility features.
Zoom Accessibility TipsDesigning virtual events requires the same care and attention as planning in-person events . . . and then some. Get started by watching this short video on leading meaningful virtual gatherings by Priya Parker, author of The Art of Gathering.
After watch the video, check out these additional tips from Spirit & Place including important advice on lighting, camera angles, and sound. We’ve also included tips to share with your speakers to ensure everyone is clear on what’s expected.
Virtual Event & Speaker Tips
These tips have been compiled from multiple sources, including the most important source of all – the public!
Moderator Tip SheetSpirit & Place encourages you to incorporate community engagement activities into your event planning.
Community Engagement Tip SheetSpirit & Place often holds space for difficult and challenging dialogue. Community (or Common) Agreements are a way to invite the audience to take ownership of the dialogue.
Sample Community AgreementPromotions are a key element to any successful event. Our “PR Matrix” will help you map out your event partners and allies to assess who can tackle different parts of a grassroots – but robust! – promotional plan.
PR MatrixThere are a lot of events going on out there. How will yours grab someone’s attention? A catchy title is key, but so is a strong event image.
Choosing an Event Image - Tips & ResourcesUse this checklist to keep track of venue, speaker, and essential promotional steps.
Event Logistics ChecklistCheck out these short Event Planning Video Tutorials to help you think about:
Event Design for Virtual Events
Social Media Training (Bohlsen Group)
Spirit & Place
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Indianapolis, IN 46202
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