Many meetings involve extensive planning and coordination. Here's a list of things to consider whether your gathering is next year or next month.

1. Visit the OCVB for advice on hotels, restaurants, or event spaces that will fit your group's needs.
2. Contact association members and/or meeting attendees and set a date.
3. Develop a database of names and contact details.
4. Form committees to divvy up work.
5. Book event and hotel rooms.
6. Hire outside help: caterers, photographers, babysitters.
7. Send out invites or set up a Web site with registration information.
8. Finalize numbers for caterers or restaurants.
9. Confirm hotel rooms.