Every planner has a toolkit — spreadsheets, timelines, backup plans A through Z. But some of the most important tools I carry didn’t come from a conference or certification program. They came from my mom.
Like most moms, mine had a collection of phrases she repeated on loop — especially when I was trying to leave the house in a rush. And one of her favorites?
“Always wear clean underwear. You never know what could happen.”
At the time, I rolled my eyes. Now? I get it. Because under all the literal cotton and metaphor, this was her way of saying:
“Be ready. Always.”
And honestly? That’s 90% of being an event planner. Here are a few other classic “Mom-isms” that have quietly become my go-to planning strategies:
“If everyone else jumped off a bridge, would you?”
Translation: Don’t follow trends blindly. In the event world, it’s easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing — the latest theme, the flashy new app, the trendy décor. But success often comes from trusting your instincts and doing what works for your client, not just what’s popular on Pinterest this week.
“Because I said so.”
Translation: Set clear boundaries and stick to them. As planners, we’re the keepers of the schedule, the flow, and the final say when it matters. Sometimes we need to draw a line and enforce it — not because we’re bossy, but because we’re responsible. And yes, sometimes we don’t have time to explain why the gator has to be approved in advance.
“Don’t forget to write a thank-you note.”
Translation: Relationships matter. This one needs no translation. Whether it’s vendors, volunteers, or the banquet captain who went the extra mile — gratitude is the secret ingredient to long-term success. It’s not just about what we do, but how we treat the people who help us do it.
“Take a jacket.”
Translation: Plan for the unexpected. Even in Florida. Even in July. Even when the forecast says clear skies.
Mom knew: weather lies. So does event flow. So we pack the metaphorical (and literal) jacket — with extra towels, a backup mic, duct tape, hot glue gun, eye glass repair kit and a plan for every “just in case.”
“Go outside and blow the stink off.”
Translation: Step away before you spiral. When the timeline breaks, the AV fails, or you’re 14 tabs deep into a spreadsheet that no longer makes sense… walk away. Step outside. Sit in the grass. Take a lap around the venue. That fresh air can do more than a dozen reboots. A few deep breaths and a shift in perspective can help you return with a clearer head and a better solution.
This Mother’s Day, I’m raising a Bellini to all the women who passed down wisdom we didn’t always understand at the time… but now, we see it for what it is: pure gold.
Happy Mother’s Day to the ones who shaped us — in life and in logistics.
And yes, Mom — I wore clean underwear today. Just in case.
Cheers,
Bethany