The key to a successful event starts in the event planning preparation stage. To some this could be going straight into exploring menu options, color themes, or décor, However, an event planner must move past the urges to get into the "fun" part of the process, and ask themselves the 5 W's: Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Asking these questions will not only build the events foundation, but guide the research needed to make sure you have thought of every detail.

WHO Begin by asking yourself "who is the target audience for my event?" Or "who am I throwing this event for?" The answer will help narrow down the demographic of your guest list. This is important, as guests can effect many aspects of an event, such as schedules, etiquette, or security precautions.

WHAT The second question to ask yourself is "what is my reason for throwing this event?" Or "what do I want the main takeaway of my event to be?" The answer should be a list of ideas you can pull from during the event planning process. Inspiration such as a drafted schedule, venue requirements, activities, or theme.

WHEN The next question "when will I be throwing this event?", should never be taken lightly. The date, time of day, or even year is crucial to a successful event. It is important to know how much notice is appropriate to give guests, remembering that giving invites out too far in advance could ruin the anticipation. Too soon, and you could be scrambling to fill the seats. Using the theme and guest list, will be key into figuring out the sweet spot to sending out invites.

The date should correspond with the events theme, and not cause confusion for guests. A tropical wedding in New York City, during December, might not be received well by guests. However it is important to give yourself enough time to plan. If you are unable to plan a tropical wedding for this year due to short notice, wait the following year for the appropriate date. Never settle for a date that does not work with the events theme, you can always hold off invites and marketing.

WHERE The question "where will I be hosting my event?", is one of the many reasons, why an event is unsuccessful. The venue or location must fit all the requirements laid out in the answers from the above questions. Is there room to accommodate all the guests? Can it hold any of the security measures needed to ensure a safe environment? Is the venue able to accommodate the guests sitting down or standing up? Can it handle all activities safely? Is their availability for my desired date? Is the venue near a city, has access to transportation, or in the general area of my guests?

WHY The final and last question will be a guide as you continue on during the event planning process. Asking, "why this over that?", allows you to make research based decisions. Which will lead to a more successful event. The answers will allow you to pin point the basic necessities for the event, and start ranking them by must have, would like to have, and wish list. Every category such as: staff, venue, décor, menu, guest list, etc. has to make it under a category. From there, you can start budgeting.