In the beginning was the fire – or rather: the budget.
Anyone planning an event – especially one that literally starts on a greenfield site – knows that a good idea alone is not enough. It needs structure, an overview and one thing above all: a solid, systematic calculation. colada provides the solution: a planning platform that gives teams orientation, flexibility and transparency.

The key: a clear event structure

Before even a single price is recorded, colada starts with a simple principle: think through the course of the event logically – from the idea to the dessert.
In terms of calculation, this means:

• First record all rough positions: Location, logistics, technology, content, F&B, guest management, etc.
• Then go into depth step by step – as precisely as the event requires.
• Each category can be detailed as required without losing the overview.

The special thing about it: while the event structure builds up, the overall budget remains in view at all times. An important orientation, especially when planning several events in parallel.

Calculating – but correctly

As soon as the structure is in place, it’s time for the figures: Quantities, unit prices, flat rates, graduated prices – everything is added directly to the structure. colada automatically calculates the totals, both at group and overall level.

But calculating correctly also means remaining flexible.

• What happens if an item becomes more expensive than expected?
• What options are there without losing sight of the concept?
• Where can discounts or reserves be planned?

colada takes all this into account – without the system tipping into chaos.

Options, discounts & reserves – everything with a system

In traditional Excel spreadsheets, the attempt to map options, discounts or reserves often leads to confusing constructs. In colada, on the other hand, even complex calculations remain clearly structured and comprehensible.

No matter whether:

• alternative variants of a catering offer,
• negotiated discounts with technology partners or
• internal safety reserves –

colada offers the necessary freedom and systematic approach at the same time.

Snapshots: Budget versions with history

Planning means change. Offers change, requirements shift – budgets evolve with them. colada documents this development with snapshots:

• Intermediate statuses are saved.
• Changes can be tracked retrospectively.
• Decisions in the debriefing are made on the basis of the development.

Cost centers: Mandatory in groups – simple in colada

Especially in larger companies or corporate structures, event costs must be clearly allocated to cost centers. This is easily possible in colada:

• Cost centers can be freely assigned.
• Each position can be assigned individually.
• Evaluations by cost center are done with one click.

This makes event planning transparent and reliable for controlling and accounting.

International planning? No problem with currencies

Not every event takes place in your own country – international events have long been part of everyday life. colada takes this into account:

• Budgets can be managed in several currencies.
• Exchange rates can be set dynamically.
• Invoices from service providers are automatically converted into the planning currency for post-calculation.

This means that the budget overview is maintained at all times, even for complex, international projects.

Conclusion: You can count on colada

colada not only offers functions – colada offers a concept. Calculating correctly means planning with a system despite all creative freedom. For agencies, companies and planners who want to implement events efficiently, professionally and transparently.

Because in the end, it’s not just about creating a budget. It’s about keeping it under control.