Checking the List and Checking it Twice

Traveling is a big part of what we do at Cache' Connections. The week of an event is planned around finalizing last minute details, contacting the volunteers, gathering all items needed for the event, taking sign ups and packing it all up. We all moan and groan (especially Linda) when we have to go through what we call "the final walk-through," which is where we all gather and talk through an event as though we were actually there. It is quite tedious and mind stretching, but helps us to focus on each aspect of the event in order to cover every little detail.

We have found when we do an Dating Game event, it all flows better the day of the event when we hold rehearsal the night before. It also helps keep the contestant's nerves in check. It was an long day for Linda and I as we had to leave home by 6:00 a.m. We had to be in Lombard by 9:00 a.m. for a pastor's wives luncheon that was coordinated by WYLL Radio. We had a sponsor's booth which provided an opportunity to share the business with those in attendance. Several women who visited the booth were very excited to hear about Cache'. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing from Jill Briscoe and a yummy fluffy cake for dessert... quite an indulgence for two healthy eaters.

We had another appointment in the afternoon unrelated to Cache' and then had to scramble to get over to Calvary Church before the rehearsal. (We only got lost a few times.) Since we have had this event a couple times before, we have worked out some kinks and streamlined the rehearsal as much as possible. The tricky part is keeping the special guests and contestants separated. We practice such items as where to go when they arrive, how to keep separated from each other, the lineup of contestants, talking into the mic, when to sit, when to stand and how to exit off stage, etc. Our sound and lights technicians are there also and we figure out the lighting and music cues. Overall, it went pretty smoothly and everyone seemed to get it. I probably drove them crazy though as I reminded several times - PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE! The evening is coordinated down to the last minute and it really messes things up when people do not show up on time. I then had one of the guy contestants tell me he is in a golf outing and probably won't arrive until the show starts. What can you do? He's so cute and nice, I just told him to make sure he's ready when his game starts.

So far the pre-registration is somewhat low, but we have found through past events, it is not a true indicator of how many will show up at the door. The tough part is figuring out how much food to order.... don't get me started. Oh well, we are hoping and praying for another great event and God's name will be glorified through it all!

Kim