15 December 2023
Planning a holiday function? ‘Tis the season and we’ve got you covered! Our SM TAFE events extraordinaire shares her top tips to prepare you for festive fever…
Advanced Skills Lecturer Kylie-Anne Stokes is the queen of events at SM TAFE; she has spent over a decade working as a lecturer priming the next generation of events enthusiasts to conquer the industry she is most passionate about, with attention to the finest of details of course.
Kylie-Anne brings a smorgasbord of extensive experience to her role championing events at SM TAFE. She has a range of qualifications including a Diploma of Events and a Bachelor of Organisational Leadership, as well as professional experience managing a range of stakeholder events for not-for-profit, government and corporate needs.
“If you’re thinking about studying events and entering the industry – do it now! There has never been a better time, work is plentiful, and the training will give you the confidence and skills you need to do the job,” says Kylie-Anne.
Now, buckle up as we dive into the festive spirit with Kylie-Anne's expert advice. Given all her experience, we thought Kylie-Anne was the best person to provide some top tips to get you through the holiday event season. So here you have it – her invaluable insights for planning and fun and hassle-free holiday function. Get ready to sleigh your event planning game!
HOLIDAY EVENT PLANNING
TIP ONE – THE DATE
It’s all about the date! Select a date as soon as possible that everyone (or the majority) can attend and save this date in your diaries. New Year’s events need to be booked ahead well in advance!
TIP TWO – BUDGET
Whether it is a work, external or your personal event, know your budget. At this time of year, some items are more expensive. Collecting things throughout the year can help with your budget needs. If it is a family or friend’s event, ask family and friends to pitch in and bring things to contribute.
TIP THREE – CATERING
Set the food and drinks options and inform guests in advance so that everyone can be catered for and no one has any outlandish expectations. Check for dietary requirements, such as gluten, vegan or other requirements.
TIP FOUR – TRADITIONS
Think about traditions, and what traditional aspects can you bring into the event to make it fun and memorable. Perhaps you can even start a new tradition!
TIP FIVE – MEMORIES
Take photos or short videos, capture the fun and share the memories with those who attended in a closed group or chat.
“Remember your event doesn’t have to go perfectly to plan; you just need to look around and see if everyone is having fun. If they are, then it probably is already perfect!” says Kylie-Anne.
Did you know? In 2024, SM TAFE can help you break into the events industry for free! The SIT30522 Certificate III in Events is offered fee free * at our Mandurah and Bentley campuses and is a direct pathway to an exciting career in tourism and travel, hospitality, sport and many cultural and community sectors.
Want to take your career even further? The SIT50322 Diploma of Event Management prepares you to work as an events/functions or conference organiser, watching your very own portfolio of events come to life before your eyes.
Applications are still open for 2024 - find out more here and take the first step into your career of Hospitality, Tourism and Events at SM TAFE.
* Please note that eligibility requirements apply to some of the free training. Tuition fees are free, but resource fees may be payable for some courses. Please see the FAQs on our Skills Ready page for further information.
Lecturer Kylie-Anne Stokes training students for industry.
Lecturer Kylie-Anne Stokes training students for industry.