How to organize a launch event for a new product or service offering?

Excellent answers above, here is my input as well after setting the date and time 2 weeks ahead, send invitations and have someone take care of RSVPs: - Do have some incentives with the company profile/ folder you are giving to the press; journalists or bloggers.
Don't bribe them.
Let it just be something that they'll use and remember your brand by.
ex: USB stick or a nice pen.
The more eccentric your brand is the more creative your giveaway should be.
- Do prepare them ahead of time with a simple agenda of what to expect at the event, dress code ...etc so they come prepared and not feel out of place.
- Do pay attention to catering as this allows for massive networking opportunities that can start over an interesting piece of cake.
- Do have a photographer or a more creative approach would be having a funky booth where they could actually take nice pictures & tag themselves and share on different social networks.
Whatever you do, don't BCC attendees, spend more time personally inviting people as it will mean so much more to them and make them feel that you REALLY want them there; which should be the case.
Of course different brands and product launches require different events, this is where you meet with professionals to get inspirations and broaden your thinking.
See you soon!

First of all you should determine the goal of this event (boost sales, increase awareness etc.), then you have to decide on the location and send out invites to people you would want to attend - mainly influential people such as journalists who can help you spread the word about your new product/service and anyone you know would be interested in such an event.

To have a organized launched event for a new product or service offering,  We should know very well first the product or service offering we should describe the company's unique selling proposition, we have to know also our target market so we can adjust everything to their needs, tell the benifits of our product, and advertise using, internets, direct marketing, or public advertisements, we should also take care of the employees so that they will also have a sincerity on their work. 

You have to decide how would you like to achieve a sales boost for your new product.
By product distribution, media coverage, consumer awareness, sales, or influencer outreach.
You chose a location that is easy accessible by your targeted audience and it also reflects your product.
Once this is done, you can send out invitations to your targeted audience (very important to be key people or influencers from your industry).
Dont target mixed audience from different industries.
Your product might not fit them).
Send out invitations and make sure the message is consistent and showing a "reason to go".
Follow-up.

First you need to choose a date that doesn't clash with other important events taking place.
Then you need to choose a central location with easy access were people can find easily.
make sure that the venue has all the communication facilities available, including a projector, AV system and internet access...etc.
treat all journalists equally and give them your undivided attention.
make sure they are welcomed by personnel that are fully aware of all details.
All staff on the day should be on the ball, totally informed, prepared for the worst and full of confidence.
Good luck!

Determine an adequate budget

Choose a unifying theme

Design animations

Set the right date

Find an attractive place

Edit an invitation

Revive the guests

 

Must have to target the place where easily find potential customers with the need of your product

That is pre-Launching Product Strategy and its necessary a awarness of product before physical presence of product in market.

A same event could target different type of journalist (IT, Sustainable development, eco-biz..) We need to treat equally but differently.
And IT journalist won't search the same info than an Eco Journalist.
We should know exactlly who we invit and personnalize the information we give to every one.
All of that to assure a wonderfull coverage.

From my previous experience on event marketing. It is important to know first the background/field of the products or materials you're about to advertise. Example: Bikes, we can organize an event or promotional event that will allow them (customer) to have to use the units with free of charge. Make some attractive booths or tracking fields. 

1. Avoid opening day of the week.

2. Avoid closing day of the week. 

3. Avoid Public Holiday. 

4. Prepare a detailed list of expected guests. 

5. Check and Book VIP Guests schedule. 

6. Prepare a check list with duties and responssible officials detailing with deadline.

7. Daily thorough monitoring could be useful.