The Root Cause Behind Broken Event Series
There’s a pattern I keep seeing, especially at breweries, bars, and other casual venues: launching and relaunching event series that didn’t work the first (or second) time around. New flyers, new DJs, new names… same mistakes.
In most cases, the problem isn’t the event type itself, rather it’s the approach. These places either try to manage things in-house with someone already stretched thin or they outsource it to whoever offers the lowest price. I get it: money’s tight, and business margins can be brutal. But when it comes to events, you really do get what you pay for.
I’ve seen venues change hands, and the new owners try to revive a series they heard “used to work.” Same category of event, completely different execution. The crowd doesn’t come back. The energy doesn’t stick. And the venue ends up blaming the concept rather than the implementation.
What’s missing is strategy. Intention. A willingness to invest up front in doing it right. Because when it’s done halfway, you don’t just lose money on a bad night, you damage your brand. You turn off potential long-term customers and burn bridges with creatives or promoters who might’ve helped you build something real.
I’m not saying you need to throw unlimited funds at every new idea. But I’ve learned this the hard way: some things are better left undone than done poorly. A weak event doesn’t just fail quietly, it echoes. And sometimes, it’s better to hold off, plan properly, and wait until you can commit the resources to do it justice.