Alright… let’s talk events — and everything that comes with them. This may turn into a mini-series of blogs because, honestly, we could be here for a very long time if I tried to cover it all in one go. There are just so many different types of events, each with its own personality and challenges, that they deserve to be broken down into smaller conversations.
I want to preface this by saying this post is geared toward those getting ready to do their first poolside fair deck event or even emerging professionals looking to get into the industry. I often hear college students say they want to get into events. I completely understand the excitement — the glitz and glamour can be incredibly appealing. But before you experience that side of the industry, you have to be willing to put in the blood, sweat, and tears that come first. Sometimes, by the time an event finally begins, you may already feel exhausted enough to wish it were over — especially if you’re balancing it with your primary role.
That said, don’t get me wrong… if someone called me tomorrow and asked me to jump back in, I’d do it in a heartbeat. You just have to be ready for all of it — the highs, the chaos, the last-minute surprises, and the unforgettable wins.
And to any seasoned professionals reading this — please feel free to add your own two cents (or five or ten!). Sharing experiences is how we all continue to learn and grow.
Over the years, I’ve been part of some truly incredible — and at times nail-biting — events. Most bring back amazing memories… while a few are best left in the past. Still, those are often the stories we laugh about the most today.
I’ll start with holiday fairs on the pool deck events at a resort. During my time at Atlantis Paradise Island, we produced some absolutely spectacular celebrations. My boss at the time was — and still is — one of the most creative and detail-driven people I’ve ever worked with. Every “i” dotted, every “t” crossed. Her vision and execution were simply inspiring.
So let’s begin with the basics. If you’re planning a special holiday fair event, here are some essential skills and qualities to develop:
Outgoing and friendly personality
The ability to handle adversity, change, and emergencies calmly
Confidence speaking clearly and engaging groups
Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays
Strong written communication skills (we didn’t have AI back in the day)
Excellent listening skills
Initiative and the ability to work independently
Multitasking and follow-through on projects
Exceptional organization and attention to detail
That’s a solid foundation for anyone considering a career in events.
Next comes creating your Recreation Checklist — something I mentioned in an earlier blog. Trust me, checklists will become your best friend.
Before diving into event logistics and the pure joy (and adrenaline!) of bringing an experience to life, it’s important to identify your key players. As part of the Guest Activities team, we collaborated closely with multiple departments to ensure everyone understood the step-by-step event plan. Our core partners included:
Food & Beverage
Housekeeping
Public Spaces / Stewarding
Security
Accounting
Events & Entertainment
Engineering
Landscaping
Banquets
Vendors
Public Relations
Marketing
I am sure I’m forgetting a few…but this too is a great start!
Our team was responsible for developing games, crafts, room amenities, and invitations. We worked with graphic artists and vendors to bring our vision to life — from themed entrances to creative game facades. Even simple activities were elevated with immersive design elements that sparked curiosity and excitement among guests.
Over time, the team became so invested that they began building facades themselves. Hidden talents surfaced, creativity flourished, and the sense of camaraderie grew stronger with every event. Watching that evolution was truly incredible.
Brainstorming sessions covered everything — photo booths, caricature artists, interactive game stations, prize booths, themed retail spaces, and menus that matched the event concept. Costumes and character performers added another layer of storytelling. Roaming entertainers, signage, décor, strolling magicians… the atmosphere became an experience guests could feel.
Of course, pulling resources together and gaining buy-in from multiple departments isn’t always easy. Compromise is sometimes necessary. But when you can clearly communicate your vision, assign responsibilities, set realistic deadlines, and maintain consistent communication, you significantly increase your chances of delivering a successful event — both for guests and for staff.
Looking back, I remember the late nights spent organizing inventory into labeled bins, coordinating with Banquets on precise setup locations, and walking the event space with Engineering to confirm power needs for food stations and vendors. By morning, teams were loading in, setting up booths, and preparing for guests — while Security ensured outside vendors had proper access passes.
This is where countdown checklists become lifesavers. From moving deck chairs to building stages, coordinating floral deliveries, arranging table logistics, and finalizing your event-day timeline — these tools keep everything on track, no matter your level of experience.
Equally important is your post-event load-out checklist. Once the celebration ends, guests still expect their spaces to be restored — and operations to run smoothly.
And finally, one of the most meaningful steps of all:
Never forget to send a sincere thank-you note to every department and individual who contributed to the event’s success. Gratitude strengthens relationships — and those relationships will carry you through your next big production.
More event stories and insights to come… stay tuned!
This quote is truly how I felt about our Easter, 4th of July and Thanksgiving Fairs on the pool deck. People came back year after year to see what we were going to do next, what was our next theme, who were our next entertainers and so much more.
Favorite Quote: “Whatever you do, do it well. Do it so well that when people see you do it they will want to come back and see you do it again and they will want to bring others and show them how well you do what you do.” – Walt Disney
Next Up: Events and More continued…