Key legal lessons for event planners from the Legal Essentials Masterclass—and why you can’t afford to miss the next one.
On Thursday, 7th August 2025, Launchpad Coworking was buzzing with conversation, laughter, and just a touch of nervous realization. Event professionals from across the city had gathered for the Legal Essentials for Event Professionals Masterclass, eager to finally address the “boring but important” side of their work the legal stuff most planners try to avoid.
The standout moment came early. As introductions rolled around, something surprising happened: every single person had a similar story. Whether it was a client who backed out last minute, a vendor who didn’t show up, or a payment that never arrived, the patterns were painfully clear. It wasn’t just bad luck; it was an industry-wide problem.
For years, many Kenyan event planners have relied on trust and verbal promises. Contracts were seen as too formal, too intimidating, or something only “big” companies needed. But the risks are enormous verbal agreements are easily denied, cancellations happen without compensation, scope creep eats into profit, and invoices remain unpaid. This masterclass was about ending that cycle.
Leading the conversation were two powerhouse legal minds: Mercy Mwaura , Legal Strategy Lead at Impact Africa Network with seven years of experience navigating business law, and Regina Wanjiku , Legal Associate at B. Kagunyi & Company Advocates, known for her hands-on, plain-English approach to legal education. Together, they took attendees deep into the heart of risk management for event planners, stripping away jargon and replacing it with real-world, usable advice.
The lessons were practical and immediately actionable. Mercy stressed that contracts are not relationship-killers but trust-builders, setting clear expectations and protecting everyone involved. Regina drove home the point that vendor liability often falls squarely on the planner’s shoulders without the right agreements in place, any mishap could cost a planner dearly. The duo also unpacked the essential permits and licenses needed in Kenya, from noise and environmental compliance to fire safety and alcohol permits, showing how skipping these can shut down an event before it even starts.
And then there was insurance a word that drew a few groans but quickly turned into a lightbulb moment. Public liability, professional indemnity, equipment coverage all safeguards that could mean the difference between a minor hiccup and a financial disaster. The speakers didn’t just talk theory; they shared cautionary tales from the field, including a planner who had to pay KES 850,000 out of pocket when a tent collapsed, simply because they had no insurance.
Attendees didn’t leave empty-handed. Each went home with a contract drafting guide, a vendor agreement checklist, a permits cheat sheet, and tips for securing progressive payments. One participant summed it up perfectly: “It was well timed and very tailored to each planner’s circumstances. I left knowing exactly what I need to fix in my contracts and processes.”
For those who missed it, the FOMO is real. They missed a rare chance to ask legal experts their burning questions in a safe, open forum. They missed real-life examples that showed just how expensive legal blind spots can be. They missed connecting with fellow professionals who share their struggles and now share better solutions.
But there’s good news. The next event is coming in October, promising even more industry experts, richer insights, and another round of those “I wish I knew this sooner” moments.
If you’re serious about protecting your business, building your credibility, and sleeping better at night knowing you’re legally covered, don’t wait for disaster to be your teacher. Join our event professionals’ community today to get first access to masterclasses, year-round expert insights, and exclusive opportunities.
👉 Join the community here: https://airtable.com/app0oHcDe3bEcvPFY/pagdwkoOCb4Sjfryc/form
