Whether you’re a Virtual Assistant, a blushing bride-to-be or a self-employed person planning to take three whole weeks off, you should never underestimate the power of advance planning.

I check all those boxes, which is why I have two suitcases already half-packed for my honeymoon – on September 4. Yes – that’s just under four weeks away.

It’s so important to me that everything is sorted out well in advance, because whether you’re getting ready for a wedding, a holiday or a big client event, you don’t want to be caught out by anything in the last minute.

Ideally, you want any last minute issues to arise well before the last minute – I like to think of the ‘last minute’ as a good week beforehand!

Just imagine turning up to a big event you’ve organised feeling calm, centred and in control of yourself and your responsibilities.

Now this wonderful experience can be yours. Here’s how I approach it.

1. Made lots of lists – things to think about, buy, pack, people to ring, tasks to complete, you name it, it went on a list.
2. Communicated – I told my clients I was going away and made sure any important work they needed was done well in advance.
3. Delegated – I’ve enlisted my Virtual Assistant, the brilliant Nikki Thurston, of Cloud 9 Admin, once again to keep Kaleidoscope ticking over in my absence. So when I log off on August 26th, it’ll all be smoothly handed over to her.
4. Worked in advance – I’m a couple of weeks ahead on everything, so there’s contingency time built in for any final touches

How do you approach organising big events for yourself, your family or your clients? I'd love to hear your comments - use the box below or drop us a line at Kaleidoscope.