How Long Should I Plan Ahead for My Event?
At AO Events 😎, we love spontaneity – but when it comes to weddings, corporate events and parties, planning ahead isn’t just wise, it’s essential. Wondering why some couples in Cheshire book us two years in advance while others call us a month before their London party? This guide will help you nail the perfect timing (and avoid those “oh no, the venue is booked” tears).
How far ahead should I plan my wedding? 💍
Think of your wedding as the biggest party you’ll ever throw. Top venues in Cheshire and London book out faster than you can say “I do.” We recommend booking your wedding essentials – venue, photographer, caterer and of course your AO Events DJ – a solid 12–18 months ahead. Prime summer Saturdays can disappear even earlier.
Booking early secures your dream date and lets you lock in the showstoppers – like our famous 3D Infinity Dancefloor, mood lighting and LED dance floors. But don’t worry, we won’t make you choose linen colours a year in advance – décor decisions can wait until closer to the big day.
Fun fact: the fastest booking we ever had? A couple booked our entire wedding package (Infinity dancefloor, DJ, lighting, photo booth) within 24 hours of meeting us. Bold move. They snagged the last Saturday in June, and it was epic 🎇.
What about corporate events? 🏢
Your corporate gala or awards night isn’t a last‑minute Zoom call. For anything classy – think rooftop drinks or a five‑course charity dinner – you’ll want at least a six‑month lead time. Annual galas and high‑profile corporate celebrations in London may require booking 9–12 months out, particularly if your event coincides with peak seasons.
If you’re planning a Christmas party, we suggest booking before summer. You’ll thank us in December when you’re celebrating with an AO Events DJ and dance floor instead of squeezing into the office cafeteria with a Bluetooth speaker.
Smaller seminars or team‑building days? Three months can do it. We’ll help with mood lighting, staging and even custom playlists to keep your colleagues tapping their feet between presentations 🕺.
How long for private parties & birthdays? 🎂
For birthdays, anniversaries and house parties in Cheshire or London, you can be a bit more spontaneous. Two to three months ahead is usually enough to secure a venue, a DJ and one of our sleek LED dance floors. Weeknights or Sundays give you even more flexibility (and lower venue costs).
Want to upgrade the party? Our Infinity Dancefloor always steals the show, so the earlier you book it, the better. You’ll avoid FOMO when your friend calls wanting it for the same weekend.
Tip: surprise party? Tell us it’s a “book club meeting.” We’ll discreetly deliver the dancefloor and DJ without ruining the secret 😂.
Balancing time, budget & fun 🎭
Planning ahead is like spinning plates — you want the perfect date, the right vendors and enough time to save (or put your parents’ credit card to good use 😉). The longer you leave it, the fewer options you’ll have. But plan too far in advance and you’ll end up changing your mind ten times.
- Time vs choice: More lead time means better venues, DJs and dance floors.
- Budget vs flexibility: Booking early locks in current rates and avoids “panic pricing.”
- Stress vs spontaneity: Last‑minute planning may make you feel like a hero, but trust us, you’ll appreciate a calm run‑up more.
Our advice? Lock in your “big‑ticket” items – venue, DJ, dancefloor, lighting – as soon as you know your date. Then, enjoy the fun stuff like décor and cake tastings closer to the day.
Why planning matters for AO Events magic ✨
An event isn’t just four walls and some fairy lights. It’s an experience – the anticipation as you walk in, the gasp when the Infinity Dancefloor lights up, the way your guests never sit down because our DJs keep the floor filled all night.
When you plan ahead with AO Events, you’re not just booking a service – you’re unlocking a team of event superheroes. We coordinate with your venue, handle the tricky logistics and work our magic so you can relax and enjoy your night.
Whether it’s a luxury Cheshire wedding or a London corporate gala, the events people remember are the ones that were thoughtfully planned. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone – we’re right here (with checklists, coffee ☕ and a sense of humour).
FAQs ❓
- Can I plan a Cheshire wedding in under 6 months?
- It’s possible, but be flexible on venue and supplier choices. Our Infinity Dancefloor will likely be booked, so call us ASAP!
- How early should I book a corporate Christmas party in London?
- Christmas dates go quickly. We suggest booking at least 6 months out so you’re not stuck with office karaoke and supermarket mince pies.
- What if my guest count changes?
- Book vendors based on an estimate but clarify cancellation and change policies. We can adjust dance floor size and DJ set‑ups up to a few weeks before.
- Do I really need a year for wedding planning?
- Not always – but for prime dates and our Infinity Dancefloor, the earlier the better. You deserve the best.
- Will AO Events take care of everything?
- From dance floors and DJs to mood lighting and photo booths, yes. We’ll even add humour to your itinerary if you ask nicely! 😄