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September 18, 2024

Tips for Planning an Event in Los Angeles

Bride and bridesmaids having a good time at a bar on her wedding day in Los Angeles

As the city of dreams and possibilities, Los Angeles offers the perfect backdrop for hosting extraordinary events. But with its glamorous reputation and world-class status, there are high expectations for creativity, execution, and guest experience.

Whether you’re organizing a corporate gathering, a private event, or a branded experience, event planning in Los Angeles requires next-level expertise. As seasoned event marketers deeply rooted in the LA scene, we're here to share our insider knowledge and help you navigate the intricacies of event planning in this dynamic city. Take a look at our Los Angeles event planning tips!

Make the Most of Influencer Culture

Los Angeles event planning companies have the unique advantage of operating in the epicenter of influencer culture. Savvy event marketers know how to strategically leverage this powerful asset to generate maximum visibility and engagement in event planning in LA.

You can incorporate influencer marketing into your Los Angeles event planning in various ways:

  • Invite celebrities and influencers to attend or host your event
  • Create photo-worthy backdrops, branded decor, and interactive elements that encourage attendees to post and share on social media
  • Collaborate with influencers before and after the event for promotions
  • Offer exclusive experiences to influencers and VIPs
Influencers testing products at a Sol de Janeiro influencer event hosted by Concierge Club

Learn the City’s Geography

Los Angeles is vast, and its sprawling layout can create challenges when planning an event. Don’t look at the Los Angeles metro area and assume it’s the full picture. The Greater Los Angeles area is far larger, encompassing over 90 incorporated cities—each with its own vibe, traffic patterns, and accessibility concerns. 

For this reason, Los Angeles event planning must take a strategic, hyperlocal approach when selecting a venue. A rule of thumb is to choose a location convenient for your target audience, factoring in their likely starting points and peak traffic times. 

For example, an event planner expecting guests from all over the city would be smart to choose a venue in a central location, easily accessible from multiple directions. Downtown LA, Mid-City, or West Hollywood are the usual go-tos for this situation. 

If guests are flying in from out of town, a venue close to major airports would be better. Locations in Culver City, Marina Del Rey, or Playa Vista often fit this bill.

Plan Around LA Traffic

Another major consideration when event planning in Los Angeles is the city's notorious traffic congestion. The best Los Angeles event planners and marketers know that navigating these transportation challenges is key to seamless event production.

When possible, schedule events around peak traffic times and avoid mornings and late afternoons. To alleviate parking-related issues, provide guests with clear parking solutions, like shuttle services, valet parking, or directions to nearby garages or lots. Prepare contingencies to help elevate the attendee experience on the day of execution.

Be Mindful of the Weather

One of LA's greatest assets is its fantastic weather, but even a city known for sunshine requires careful event planning. Los Angeles can occasionally get unpredictable heat waves during the summer or cooler temperatures in the evenings. For private and corporate event planners, this means setting up plans A, B, and C to ensure guests stay comfortable no matter what. 

Here are some steps LA event planning companies can take to create a welcoming and enjoyable environment for their special events:

  • Monitor weather forecasts
  • Select flexible venues that allow you to easily shift plans based on weather conditions
  • Equip outdoor spaces with shade structures, fans, and coolers filled with water for hot days
  • For cooler evenings, provide heaters, blankets, or fire pits for a cozy atmosphere
  • While rain is rare, be prepared with tents or indoor alternative

Research and Comply With Event Regulations

Los Angeles event planning often involves following detailed regulations depending on the type of event and its location. Make sure to research and obtain any necessary permits in advance to avoid potential disruptions.

Stay mindful of:

  • Noise ordinances
  • Public space permits
  • Health and safety guidelines
  • Insurance requirements
  • Accessibility regulations
  • Fire codes (especially for event production involving pyrotechnics or open flames)

Plan for Diverse Guest Needs

Wedding events, corporate events, or Beverly Hills events—whatever you’re planning in LA, make sure to anticipate a diverse guest list. The city attracts a wide range of attendees from different industries and backgrounds, so be mindful of diversity in event planning in LA. 

Make sure you provide accessible and inclusive options for wherever options apply. Take careful note of venue accessibility, dietary needs, cultural sensitivities, and language accommodations if you want to ensure your party planning is thoughtful and effective.

Attendees in costume enjoying the West Hollywood Carnaval event in 2017

Image Source: Shutterstock

Go Sustainable

In Los Angeles, sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. So, when event planning, LA planners and marketers would do well to align their events with the city’s eco-conscious values. Incorporate sustainable practices and reduce your event’s environmental impact while appealing to a growing audience of eco-conscious attendees.

Here are some ways marketers and event planners in Los Angeles can go sustainable:

  • Choose eco-friendly venues (green certifications are great indicators for this)
  • Go paperless with digital solutions (think QR code passes, online registrations, and cashless payments)
  • Partner with local caterers who prioritize farm-to-table menus, organic ingredients, and plant-based options
  • Say no to single-use plastics like straws, cups, and cutlery
  • Encourage guests to carpool, use ride-share services, or take public transportation
  • Partner with vendors that prioritize waste reduction

Direct Your Dream Event in LA With Concierge Club

In the city where dreams come to life on the silver screen, why settle for anything less than a blockbuster event? Concierge Club is your A-list director for Los Angeles event planning, turning your vision into a star-studded reality.

From scouting iconic locations to orchestrating show-stopping moments, we bring Hollywood magic to every detail. Plus, as a 100% woman and minority-owned agency, diversity is at the heart of everything we do. Our creative and experienced team will ensure your event reflects the vibrant cultures and communities that make LA unique.

Ready to create an event that rivals any Hollywood premiere? Let Concierge Club be your ticket to LA's VIP event scene—contact us today!