Calling the Weather: The Worst Part of Being an Event Planner

Sky Over Fairmont Mayakoba

Calling the rain has to be the worst part of my job.

It ain't as easy as deciding if its going to rain for a family picnic. For my group of 200 tonight, I've got tables, chairs, major audio visual setup, not to mention tiki torches and Mexican folk dancer costumes to worry about.

This morning, Melissa, my contact with the Fairmont Mayakoba Resort, confidently sauntered up to me at our hospitality desk. She fanned out before me weather reports from five or six reputable websites with the storm clouds circled in green highlighter.

"It's going to rain on your event. There's at least a 65% chance. When its over 50% we strongly suggest you use the backup."

I thought she was rather smug and inflexible in her prognostication. I told her I would almost rather cancel the event than hold it in a ballroom. I think I offended her.

"I will have to consult with my committee. I don't think you fully understand what's involved here. You may not even have the choice."

I think she was bluffing.

On my first event in Hawaii one of my bosses told me always to risk on the side of good weather. After all, storm clouds at sunset make for a wonderful backdrop. 

As I write this I'm in my room praying for clear skies. I wouldn't doubt if Melissa is in her office praying for buckets of the wet stuff if only to spite me.

There's an hour to go before my dinner. The sky is looking darker by the minute.

I'm going to risk it.