Though I agree with the phrase “many hands make light work,” I have recently seen how too many hands create confusion.

With many trying to help by showing initiative, they act without consulting the coordinator. The results are time-consuming and chaotic in the midst of a fun event.

On the other hand, I had the privilege of assisting with a luncheon, seating 15-20 people. Working with two other talented organizers, we quickly and efficiently staged the area, set the tables, and arranged the food. Not only was the preparation effortless, but also fun.

Without confusion, I enlisted the help of my girls. They helped wiped down the chairs and place the programs. Teaching my girls how to organize, plan, and coordinate events gives them the framework to organize, plan, and coordinate their daily lives.

My goal is to see my children take on any project knowing they can organize, plan, and coordinate because they have learned the framework. My oldest daughter has the gift of creativity. I look forward to cultivating her framework to see how her creativity will blossom into magnificent spectacles.

Though your goals and events are different from mine, practicing a framework and working with a core group of assistants eases the confusion and increases the productivity. In using time wisely, I prefer to work with one or two adults to coordinate an event for 15-20 attendees. Any more than two is too many helpers which is not helpful.

Determining the size of your event and minimizing the amount of help keeps all helpers on-task while using time wisely. Happy planning!

Question: How many helpers is too many for a 15-20-participant event?