Award event checklist: before, on the night and after

Before the night

Rules and entries

• The regulation is written and signed.
• Categories are fixed, with final names.
• The entry form is ready.
• The call for entries has a published deadline.

Jury

• Jurors are named and briefed.
• The voting rules are written.

The night

• Date, venue and show length are agreed.
• The running order is timed.
• Special guests and order of precedence are confirmed.
• Decide in advance what happens when an award recipient is absent. Read more →
• Accessibility and language needs are covered.

The last week

• Each name is checked before the night.
• The host reads each name aloud, including the hard ones.
• Certificates are checked, with a spare.
• A rehearsal is done.

On the night

• The team arrives early and knows its role.
• A microphone check is done before the doors open.
• A plan for late arrivals is agreed.
• The team knows who to ask.
• Photos are taken with consent.

After the night

• Certificates are sent.
• Guests are thanked.
• A debrief is held within a week.

Rules differ by country and by council. Ask your legal adviser.