The document outlines various challenges that have arisen in planning an event including: a keynote speaker becoming available at the last minute requiring a reworked timetable; additional unexpected costs such as providing academic publications to all delegates; a client requesting high-quality conference folders; inviting all delegates instead of just VIPs to a drinks reception; cancellation of elements of the program; a speaker failing to turn up; and responding proactively to any negative social media posts about the event. Managing these types of issues requires creativity, flexibility and patience from event planners.