Plan Events

The Essentials

Time

With any event, start with a rough estimate of how much time you’ll need to plan and coordinate. The more time you allow yourself to plan, the smoother the process will be.

Place

Once you’ve got your time frame in mind, your next stop will likely be reserving space. All reservation requests are processed via the Reservations Office. You’ll need to work with your club Secretary to book space at this time. The secretary role is currently the only club member eligible to make requests for space on behalf of their organization. Once they complete the Blackboard course to learn how to use 25live, they can logon at 25live.collegenet.com/bu. Check out some of the various available space and the rules governing those spaces. If you’re group has a new secretary, ensure they complete the position forms on your portal so we can get them enrolled in the 25live program we use on campus for booking space.

Paying for it

From the essentials to those elements that really make your event stand out, it costs money to hold an event. If you’re an undergraduate group, the Allocations Board (AB) can help with many of your funding needs. Requests for funds are handled directly on Terrier Central.

Getting the Word Out

If you want to fill the Tsai Performance Center, you’ll need to promote your event. Social media provides a great—and free—channel for that, but don’t underestimate the power of a poster on campus. Our office can help you get your designs on digital signage for free. Make sure you’re familiar with BU’s rules about publicity distribution.

Tickets

No need for lines around the block—we use Eventbrite for all online ticket sales. That covers almost all student events, with the exception of those held at any of the athletic facilities on campus.

Nailing the Details

Now that you’ve got so many people pumped about your event, you want to make sure it goes off hitch-free. If your event is on campus, BU Services (provided at University rates) is your one-stop shop. To secure any of these services, visit with an Activities Consultant at SAO or select an option from the Packages Handbook available on Terrier Central.

Facilities Management & Planning—These folks will literally open doors for you after hours and set up any campus space. And they take care of special electrical needs.
Catering on the Charles—You need not fear the hungry hordes. After all, feeding them is no problem with BU’s on-campus caterer.
Student Production Services (SPS)—Whether you just need an microphone or a whole dance floor, SPS has you covered in the GSU and beyond.
LETS— Check out the how-to instructions and use the computer/projector systems in any classroom.
Parking & Transportation Services—Parking on campus can be quite a hunt. Spare special guests and others the traffic hazards with event-day parking passes.
Boston University Police Department (BUPD)—There are times when extra precautions are called for, such as large crowds, high-profile guests, and contentious topics. BUPD can be on the scene to keep things safe for everyone.