Event Planning Guide
The Christian Retreats Network began nearly a decade ago, rooted in a passion for creating exceptional and affordable Christian off-site events.
It all started with Lake Williamson Christian Center, a facility backed by over 60 years of industry-leading experience, innovative best practices, and a commitment to extraordinary customer service.
As Lake Williamson’s success grew, other like-minded Christian conference and retreat centers joined together, forming what is now the Christian Retreats Network. United by a shared mission and strong brand promise, each property brought its unique strengths to the table—demonstrating the power of collaboration in ministry.
Today, the Christian Retreats Network remains dedicated to being your trusted partner in effective off-site ministry. We understand what it takes to plan and deliver a successful event, and we’re here to support your mission with professional service in a Christ-centered environment.
Keep scrolling for our Event Planning Guide Table of Contents, a comprehensive compilation of expert tips and tricks!
Table of Contents:
Chapter 1 - Marketing 101 (written but needs posted)
Learn simple, effective ways to promote your event and reach your ideal attendees using both traditional and digital strategies that fit your ministry’s voice and values
The right venue does more than hold people. It also supports your mission. Learn what to prioritize so your location enhances ministry impact, not hinders it.
You can’t carry the weight of event planning alone—and you’re not meant to. From defining roles to setting expectations, this guide helps you form a team that serves with excellence and unity.
Chapter 4 - Identifying Your Audience (needs written)
Who are you planning for? This chapter helps you narrow your focus and tailor every detail to meet the spiritual and practical needs of your group.
Create a memorable, mission-aligned identity for your event with logos, language, and design that point people to Christ and build anticipation.
Stay organized and on track with a suggested timeline that breaks down what to do and when—whether you’re planning six months or six weeks out.
Discover creative, ministry-appropriate ways to raise funds and make your event accessible, from church partnerships to community-driven support
Chapter 8 - Social Media Mistakes & Best Practices (written but needs posted)
Use social media wisely to promote connection and avoid common pitfalls. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to steward your online presence.
Cancellations happen—this chapter equips you with practical tips and backup plans to stay flexible without losing momentum or peace.
Chapter 10 - App Integrations (needs written)
Explore helpful apps and tools that can simplify registration, communication, scheduling, and more—saving you time and energy for what matters most.
Choose a theme that ties your event together with biblical depth and relevance. Includes sample themes, verses, and ideas to spark creativity.
Finish strong by gathering meaningful feedback. Learn how to ask the right questions, reflect on what worked (and what didn’t), and use evaluations to improve future ministry events with clarity and purpose.
Keep Christ at the center. This final chapter reminds you how to seek the Lord’s guidance at every stage and cover your event in intentional prayer.
More Resources:
Retreat planning can be a lot of hard work! That’s where we come in to help by providing you with a variety of planning resources. Head over to our Resources Section. Using the checkboxes on the left, you can filter resources by type and property. Based on your selections, you will have access to event planning tools, promotional templates, and key location information for each of our properties.
If you need help with any of these tools, you can contact our team for assistance at 877-833-2272.
Want a printable version of this Event Planning Guide?
Click here to download a PDF.
