KISS – “Keep It Simple, Stupid” – is one of those phrases that has stuck with me throughout my career. It was popularised by the U.S. Navy in the 1960s and rooted in the idea that the simplest solution is usually the best one. I first came across it in my BCom marketing days, and over the years I’ve seen it apply to just about everything I do, especially in event management services.

For me, keeping it simple isn’t just a philosophy – it’s a necessity.

Why I believe in simple

When an event is simple, everyone involved – from my team to our clients – knows exactly what the objectives are. There’s no guesswork. Guests understand the message instantly, and that makes it easier for them to engage.

Simplicity also lowers the chances of mistakes. I like to work with one clear focus for each event. Every decision, whether it’s décor, timing, or logistics, feeds into that focus. It keeps everyone aligned and working towards the same goal. For event organisers in Gauteng and across South Africa, this clarity is what turns a good event into a great one.

Live events don’t need to be overcomplicated

Live events can easily spiral into complexity. Between health and safety rules, budget constraints, and logistics, it’s tempting to pile on more than you need. I’ve learnt that stripping things back often works better.

We’ve used modular designs, straightforward menus, and efficient layouts to save time and money without losing quality. Think about TikTok or Spotify – they’re successful because they’re simple, effective, and easy to scale. Events are no different.

Simple works online too

The KISS principle isn’t just for physical events. In digital and hybrid spaces, overcomplicated platforms can be a nightmare for attendees. Too many features just get in the way.

When we managed the Sasol Built to Last Webinar Series, we kept the experience clear and easy – from registration right through to the live Q&A. The result? High engagement and no unnecessary tech headaches.

It’s also about the customer experience

KISS is really about making life easier for the client. It’s about listening to what they need and delivering it in the simplest, most effective way possible.

I think of it like my favourite coffee shop – they know my name, my order, and have me sorted in minutes without compromising quality. That’s the kind of service I want LMS to give every single client.

Why I’ll always stick to KISS

For me, KISS isn’t just a design principle – it’s how I run my business. From the first conversation to the final applause, my focus is on clarity, purpose, and results.

Whether you need full conference planning, a corporate gala, or a bespoke brand activation, keeping it simple delivers better results. At the end of the day, it’s about providing great service without unnecessary fuss. And that’s what keeps clients coming back.

If you want your next event to be extraordinary without the chaos, let’s keep it simple – and make it happen.