Event type
Press conference
A press conference is short and dense: within an hour it either all happens, or it doesn't.
Headcount rule of thumb
One accreditation host up to fifty journalists, plus one for wayfinding.
In short
A press conference needs few people, but precisely placed: an accreditation desk, wayfinding and support around the technical set-up. As a rule of thumb, one accreditation host handles up to fifty journalists, because press don't arrive together but spread across the half hour before the start. What sets this apart from other events is that the list is sensitive: someone not on it cannot simply be waved through, and someone on it cannot be kept waiting. Camera crews need separate handling, because they arrive earlier and need space reserved.
Who you need, and why
- Accreditation hostess
- Press list, ID, press pack. Here the list isn't a formality.
- Wayfinding staff
- Camera positions, seating, order of questions.
- Waiting staff
- Coffee and pastries at the reception, if a press briefing follows.
What to decide, and when
1 week ahead
Press list, who may attend, and the protocol for anyone not on it.
2 days ahead
Press packs assembled, camera crews confirmed.
On site, 60 minutes early
Desk, list, press packs, camera positions marked.
30 minutes before start
Crews arrive. This is the real peak, not the start time.
What usually goes wrong
- Nobody decided what happens to someone not on the list, so the hostess decides for you at the door.
- Camera crew arrival is planned like guest arrival, when they come half an hour earlier.
- Press packs stay behind the desk and nobody receives one.
- It isn't agreed who picks the order of questions.
The staff we usually supply for this
Where are you organising it?
Information tailored to the city, with local venues.
Press conference
Give us the date and the guest count and you'll have a concrete headcount and price within one working day.
- A real quote within 24 hours
- Replacement guarantee for drop-outs
- No minimum order
- A dedicated coordinator on every booking
Frequently asked questions
How many staff for a press conference?
Usually two or three: one on accreditation, one on wayfinding, and a waiter if there's a reception. Above fifty journalists, two on accreditation.
What should the hostess do if someone isn't on the press list?
Whatever we agreed in advance. This is a decision, not on-the-spot improvisation: either take their details and alert your contact, or admit them, or don't. Tell us beforehand.
What languages are needed?
English as standard if international press attend. Other languages on request, though the press list usually shows what's needed in advance.