The Dispatch
Guides, field notes and unfiltered opinions for the people who put on live events, and the fans who turn up.
All guides
1,023 guidesHow to Survive Your First Festival: A Practical UK Guide
First-time festival goers tend to overpack, underplan, and run out of phone battery by 6pm. Here is what veterans actually do, with no guess-work.
How to Organise Your First Event in the UK: A Beginner's Guide
A clear path from "I have an idea" to "the doors are open" without the small mistakes that cost first-time organisers half their margin.
How to Get a Refund from StubHub
StubHub is a major secondary ticket marketplace. If you need a refund, this guide explains your rights and the most effective approach.
How to Get a Refund from Ticketmaster
Ticketmaster is the UK's biggest ticketing platform. If you need a refund…
Eventbrite Alternatives UK: 9 Better Options for 2026
Eventbrite has a place but it is rarely the best fit for UK organisers.
How to Get a Refund from Twickets (UK Guide 2026)
Twickets ticket not delivered or event cancelled? Here is how to claim a refund, escalate via Section 75 and chargeback…
Guide to Adding Event Tickets to Apple Wallet
Apple Wallet lets you store event tickets alongside boarding passes and payment cards.
Guide to Adding Event Tickets to Google Wallet
Google Wallet stores event tickets on Android devices for quick access at venues.
Event Catering: Planning and Budgeting Guide
A practical guide to planning event catering, covering in-house vs external caterers, per-head budgeting, dietary requirements, food hygiene, alcohol licensing, and food trucks.
AV Requirements for Events: Sound, Lighting, and Visuals
A guide to planning AV for events, covering PA systems, stage lighting, projectors, in-house vs hired equipment, technical riders, power requirements, and sound limiters.
Venue Capacity Planning: A Practical Guide
A practical guide to planning venue capacity for events, covering fire regulations, standing vs seated layouts, production footprint, overselling risks, and on-the-day monitoring.
How to Choose the Right Event Venue
A practical guide to selecting the right venue for your event, covering capacity, location, facilities, budget…
