Five things to consider when choosing your (Corporate) event venue
It feels like a breath of fresh air to acknowledge that corporate events are making their post-pandemic come back! Employees are slowly transitioning back into offices, and it’s so amazing to see everyone’s faces (and not on a screen!)
That being said, it’s time to bring back all of that buried knowledge of planning events for your staff, and to help you out, we’ve outlined five things you should be thinking about when planning your next event - whether that be a holiday party, training session, or even an employee appreciation event! So what should you be looking for when considering your next event?
#1 - CATERING OPTIONS
Whether you’re planning a holiday party or a training session, ask potential venues what the catering opportunities are! Needless to say, venues that provide packings with catering involved will save you money and the hassle of having to coordinate with multiple vendors! An all-inclusive package is going to be your best friend when planning. If your preferred venue cannot cater, be sure to ask if they have catering recommendations and ensure you select a venue that has previously catered events at that location. That will (hopefully) ensure an easy process without many kinks to work out.
#2 - LOCATION
Where is a central location for your employees to travel to? Keep in mind whether your main employee base is local or if you need to pay attention to easy access to hotels + airports. Easing back your staff into actually traveling further than from their desk to their couch should be a top priority when planning!
#3 - PARKING
Don’t make your employees deal with a tricky parking situation! Look for event venues with plenty of parking for your group size (or if there is no free parking in the area, potentially ask about valet parking options). You want to make their experience as seamless and streamlined as possible, so they aren’t stressed out before they even get into the building.
#4 - VENUE LAYOUT
Especially if you are holding training sessions where you may have some sensitive management training separately from specific staff members - make sure there are options for breakout sessions that provide plenty of room for everyone while still giving each group the privacy they need to get things done!
On the other hand, if you’re throwing a party - make sure you confirm how many people can comfortably fit into a ballroom type-setting. Be sure to ask what types of table layouts make the most sense for your plans. If you plan to have a DJ/dance floor, be sure to factor that into the set-up as it will take away seating and affect the size of space you are looking for!
#5 - SERVICES + AMENITIES
First and foremost, what’s the WiFi situation!? Most corporate events will more than likely need a strong internet signal for potential video streaming to remote employees. Furthermore, does the venue include linens? Bar services? Clear signage to relay any necessary agendas and room locations to easily get your employees where they need to be? What does the clean-up situation look like after your event is over?
All of these amenities and services are so important to creating an environment that makes your staff feel like you really put thought into their experience!
Finally, we KNOW this is so much to think about! That’s why you should look for a venue that has experienced staff members who can ensure you have thought through every piece of an event that you might not even consider. A friendly, knowledgeable event coordinator will be your best resource and says a lot about the venue itself.
And this is the point in the blog where we insert a shameless plug about 502 East Event Center! Click below to get more information on our corporate event offerings and to get into contact with one of our amazing (and experienced) staff members. They will answer your questions and help you decide if our venue is the right fit for your next event!