The run sheet is where the dinner, the programme and the venue's constraints become one plan. A good run sheet shows dependencies and owners, not just times.
Cover guest arrival, seating, host cues, leadership remarks, each dining milestone, lo hei, entertainment, recognition and departure. Name an owner for every cue, and name the person who can shorten or move a segment if the night runs late. Date every version and keep a single current copy so nobody works from an old file in a chat thread.
Decide whether seating should mix teams, keep departments together or support client hosting. Mixed tables spark new conversations; familiar groups feel more relaxed. Consider language, mobility and the experience of new joiners. A seating plan should make the room feel welcoming, not turn dinner into an organisation chart.
Loading access, setup windows and teardown timing.
Power, sound limits and screen formats.
Microphone tests from the actual speaking positions.
Slides legible from the furthest table.
Clear walkways and visible steps if lighting dims.
Confirm these with the venue and check current details before approving programme ideas.
List the problems that would really affect guests: late arrivals, delayed service, an absent speaker, a technical fault or a segment that overruns. Agree a response and a decision-maker for each, so no important call is made in front of guests.
After the dinner, compare attendance, timing and guest comments against your success statement. Separate feedback on the food, the programme, the venue and communications so it is useful next time. Store the final run sheet for whoever plans the next one.
If you would like help shaping the dinner around your audience and confirmed requirements, see Get Out! Events' company reunion dinner page.
About this guide: Company Chinese New Year Dinner Guide is written and maintained by Get Out! Events, a Singapore corporate event company at 14 Robinson Road #08-01A, Singapore 048545. It contains general planning guidance only; confirm current venue rules, permits and partner requirements before you book anything.