Three Years of STRONG: What I’ve Learned About Time, People, and the Power of a Good Plan

Wow.

Three years.

We’re officially three years into STRONG PR, Marketing and Events — and what a journey it’s been. I look back at the countless moments we’ve created, the brands we’ve brought to life, and the people we’ve celebrated along the way… and I honestly feel so proud, and so grateful.

It’s also made me reflect on everything I’ve learned. Not just in these three wild, beautiful years of running STRONG PR, Marketing and Events, but in my many years before this in the industry.

If I had to choose one thing that’s been a consistent truth, it’s this: Time spent planning is never wasted.

Whether it’s an intimate strategy session or a 600-person awards show — planning is where the magic starts. And if you invest the time upfront, you save so much down the line: You avoid surprises, overspending, and last-minute chaos. You unlock creativity. You give yourself space to make better decisions.

And more than anything — you create space to think about the people.

It’s That Season Again…

We’re creeping toward that time of the year again. The final quarter. When words like “year-end function,” “staff awards,” and “recognition event” start popping up in inboxes and meeting agendas. And yes — I’m here for it. Because recognition is everything. Your people have shown up. They’ve made it through the hard days. They’ve made your year possible. So now’s the time to honour that. But here’s my gentle reminder as you plan…

Don’t Just Tick the Box. Make Them Feel Something.

A year-end function should never feel like just another entry in the company calendar. It’s a chance to stop. To breathe. To look each other in the eyes and say: “You matter. Thank you for everything.” So, if you’re planning something special this year — whether it’s a black-tie awards evening or a backyard summer celebration — here are some tips I hold close

Top Tips for Creating a Year-End That’s Full of Heart

Make it Personal

Recognition doesn’t have to be flashy — but it does have to be real. Highlight real moments. Tell stories. Thank people by name. If it feels personal, it’ll feel powerful.

Three-Course Meals Don’t Equal Meaning

Don’t get me wrong — we love a beautiful plate of food. But if your people leave feeling full but emotionally empty, you’ve missed the point. Create an experience, not just a meal.

Put Your People on Stage

There’s nothing more moving than seeing your colleagues come to life on stage. Whether it’s a song, a dance, a shared story — involve them in the programme. Let them shine. Let them feel seen.

Surprise and Delight

Small surprises leave the biggest impressions. A handwritten note. A thank-you video. A playful award nobody saw coming. Those are the moments that stay with people long after the DJ packs up.

Start Now — Not Later

Please, please don’t wait until November. The earlier you start, the more room we have to create something truly special. Planning early doesn’t mean overcomplicating. It means being intentional.

From Our Heart to Yours

At STRONG PR, Marketing and Events, we don’t just plan events. We help create moments of connection — the kind that make your team walk away a little prouder, a little closer, a little more seen. So if you’re thinking of hosting something special to round off the year — we’d love to help. We’ll bring the ideas, the structure, the sparkle. But more importantly, we’ll bring the heart. Here’s to the people who make it all possible — and to celebrating them in a way they’ll never forget.

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