Lake Superior Bridal Magazine 2016 2016 Lake Superior Bridal Magazine | Page 7

Do you need security at your event?
Although not always required, all too often security is
overlooked when planning an event of any kind. Most
people believe that they can keep their event/reception
organized and secure without any outside help. Even
the most organized person will be overwhelmed
when the caterer says they are blowing breakers, the
photographer is saying it time for photos, and the DJ
needs to know where to setup. Oh…and the cake just
arrived. So while all this is happening your guests are
making their way in, and no one is there to greet them. If
you are dealing with running the event, who is guarding
the entrance in case of unwanted guests?
A good Security Officer is more than a bouncer or
rent-a-cop. Most of my time working at events deal
with greeting and helping guests find their seats,
directing vendors where to setup, and help the event
organizer work problems out These are the things you
don’t always plan for. Also, it’s a great help when Uncle
Al has had a couple too many and is voicing his
opinions on politics loudly… or a person who no one
can identify is in the buffet line. Security personnel can
take care of the problem and prevent the host from being
put in an uncomfortable or even compromising position.
Liability-wise, you will also be prepared in case there is a
problem.

if you don’t want to pay for the morning, someone else may
have the park rented before you, or the public can use the park
(unreserved) and have a family reunion up and running when
you arrive to set up. This is another plus where having the
security start an hour before you have it reserved and stay for
your whole event is a smart idea.
I know it might be tempting to ask a family member or friend
to help with “security” duties. This can save you money, but
it could also cost more in damages, and be dangerous for the
person you assign the duties to. It takes a huge amount of
time to create a great event and only a minute to ruin it with a
disturbance. Be aware of how much more effective a professional
security officer will be. A good Security Officer will evaluate the
site continually, and ensure that your guests are well cared for.
by Rick Minotte, security professional for over 35 years.

Whether you are required by the venue or not to
hire security, you should evaluate your ability to
create a safe and secure environment. It will be your
responsibility since some venues open the doors or give
you a key, and then leave.
It’s your job to:
· Control access to your event
· Control guests at your event
· Breakup instances that turn ugly
· Protect the venue from damages
· Control Beer/Liquor consumption
· Assess your guests as they leave (i.e. taxi cabs) when
necessary
Outdoor venues can be particularly tricky. Especially
with perimeter control, bathrooms and noise. Most of
City of Duluth Parks are rented in four hour blocks. So

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