The Certificate Course
Event Planning can often feel like navigating uncharted territory—overwhelming, uncertain, and full of unknowns. At Bright Ideas Event Agency, we understand that feeling intimately. When we launched our company in 1988, resources were scarce. There was no internet to provide instant answers—just word-of-mouth, personal connections, and hard-earned experience.
So why share this with you?
While today’s event planners have access to an abundance of information at their fingertips, the challenge now lies in sifting through it all. With so many sources and conflicting opinions, it’s hard to know where to start—or what you might be missing. Many professionals still find themselves learning the hard way, through trial, error, and costly mistakes.
That’s why we created a comprehensive, 19-module course to guide you through every aspect of planning a meeting, colloquium, or corporate event. It’s built on decades of experience, hard work, and insider knowledge—so you don’t have to start from scratch.
If your answer is “yes,” then congratulations—you’re already on the path to becoming a confident, capable, and successful event planner.
What makes this event planning course different?
Introducing “The Gold Standard”—a premier online course meticulously designed to elevate the standards of event planning excellence. Our founder, Sharon Bonner, in collaboration with esteemed event producer and educator Dianne Devitt, is proud to bring this comprehensive program to the Canadian market.
With a legacy spanning 37 years, Bright Ideas Event Agency has consistently set benchmarks in the Canadian event industry, a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. Our accolades reflect this dedication.
Dianne Devitt brings over 35 years of invaluable experience in event planning. As a former Adjunct Professor at New York University and a Preferred Educator recognized by the Events Industry Council, her expertise is both vast and well-regarded. Her contributions have significantly shaped industry standards.
Dianne and Sharon are introducing Canada to “The Gold Standard Course – The Certificate in the Business of Meetings and Events™,” a comprehensive 19-module program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in event planning. This collaboration merges decades of experience to deliver unparalleled insights into the art and science of event management.
Sharon’s Favourite Event Planning Modules
EVENT PLANNING MODULE 8: FOOD, BEVERAGE, AND CATERING – Let Thy Food Be Thy Medicine
Food profoundly influences our lives, serving as both a unifying element and a reflection of our individuality. Each dish, imbued with unique nuances, distinguishes the mundane from the extraordinary.
This module delves into the complexities of menu selection, emphasizing the assessment of risks and liabilities inherent in this process. Key considerations include understanding the target audience, accommodating allergies, and accounting for timing and seasonality.
For instance, the adage that oysters are best consumed in months containing the letter “R” underscores the importance of seasonality—a principle equally applicable to other culinary choices, such as selecting wines based on their vintage year.
Beyond the selection of individual dishes, the sequence in which they are presented warrants careful planning. Effectively managing diverse dietary restrictions, choosing appropriate caterers, and coordinating multiple vendors are critical to successful menu execution.
Equally vital is establishing the event’s ambiance or theme. Aligning the menu with the overarching theme enhances the coherence and enjoyment of the experience. For example, serving sushi at a Parisian Winter Wonderland-themed event may disrupt the intended atmosphere.
This module offers comprehensive insights into these facets, equipping you with the knowledge to curate exceptional culinary experiences.
EVENT PLANNING MODULE 17 INSURANCE – If Anything Can Happen … It Will!
In event planning, legal considerations must be prioritized to safeguard against potential liabilities. The adage “better safe than sorry” aptly underscores the necessity of proactive risk management; relying solely on optimism does not confer immunity from unforeseen challenges.
This module provides a comprehensive overview of the various types of insurance pertinent to event planning and offers guidance on the acquisition process. It emphasizes the critical skill of interpreting policy details to ensure long-term protection.
Furthermore, the module delineates the distinctions between a certificate of insurance and an insurance policy, clarifying the roles and responsibilities of insured parties. By engaging with this material, you will be equipped with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of event-related insurance and effectively mitigate associated risks.
A Message from Sharon
I am delighted to introduce “The Gold Standard” course to Canada—a transformative program designed to address the critical challenges faced by today’s event planners. In an industry where professionals are often tasked with orchestrating events surpassing their existing expertise, this comprehensive 19-module course is an essential resource. It equips you with the necessary tools and knowledge to confidently and efficiently manage complex meetings and events, ensuring seamless execution and outstanding results.
PSSST! Want a “bright idea”?… Sharon is giving you a 15% discount: Click here for more details.
