Corporate Events: How to Make It Memorable

As the host, you want to make sure your event stands out from the rest, but how can you give your guests the best possible experience? Even with a limited budget, there are ways to change the norm and create something new and exciting that will make your attendees remember your event and ensure they attend your next one.

Choose a hotlist venue

If you use the same venue for every event or tend to pick the same types of space, consider mixing it up with a brand new backdrop. Each event is unique and, as such, finding a different venue each time gives returning delegates a new experience.

While all event venues need to be practical, that doesn’t mean they can’t be exciting. Conferences don’t need to be held in a conference venue, just as a dinner doesn’t have to be held in a ballroom or restaurant. Think outside the box with blank spaces, alfresco openings and quirky venues which guests themselves will want to visit, such as a renowned racecourse or luxurious country house. Alternatively, pique your attendees’ interest by giving them a first look through the doors of a new bar or hotel. As long as it can fit everyone and can cater to your requirements, choosing somewhere quirky is a great way to be remembered whilst offering a unique experience.

Take it overseas

If you’re really looking to wow your guests, whether clients or employees, whisking them off to another country is certainly something they won’t forget. Taking guests out of their normal routine can provide a much-needed break and a chance to explore somewhere new.

When looking abroad, check out local tours, tastings and memorable locations to make sure guests get a sense of a destination’s culture. Better yet, add a bucket list experience, such as dinner at a top restaurant, exclusive viewing of a popular attraction or a champagne toast from an incredible viewpoint.

Pull out all the stops for a theme

If your event requires a theme, don’t be afraid to go all out. As well as props, a dress code and, of course, the invitations, look at other aspects that can bring the theme to life. Think about how the catering can contribute to the overall theme, such as street food vans, beer tents and snacks from different cuisines. And don’t forget the music! Take it back to a certain decade or mix in older tracks among popular chart toppers.

When it comes to props, think more than just color schemes and table centers. What symbolizes your theme? For a festival carnival, cover the space with teepee tents, fire pits, and hanging lanterns and ribbons. For an enchanted garden, drape some mystical lighting and hire classic lawn games. There are plenty of resources to inspire your creativity — we recommend creating a Pinterest board to collect your ideas!

Surprise guests with high-class entertainment

The entertainment you provide will depend on the event and the guests that are attending. If you’re planning an event with an important guest list, providing them with high-class entertainment, such as an upbeat band or well-known comedian, will create a talking point. Spending a little bit more money to get a minor celebrity to attend and entertain can really pay off by impressing guests and getting them to return next time.

Embrace new technology

There is so much technology that can be used at events these days. From live streaming conferences to interactive product launches, technology can really enrich your guests’ experience. Using augmented reality (AR) is becoming increasingly popular and can bring a whole new dimension and creative streak to your event. From photo booths to product demos, AR can take guests into a virtual world and increase attendee engagement. Think about new ways you can incorporate technology and don’t be afraid to try something new.

Creating a spectacular corporate event can be daunting, especially if it’s important for your business. If you’re apprehensive about planning a corporate event or want some expert advice, hiring an event management company is the best choice. From finding a venue to inviting the delegates and making sure everything runs as it should, an events company can be a true savior when planning your event.

The most important thing to remember is to put your guests and delegates at the forefront of what you do. What would ensure they have the best possible time? Don’t be afraid to try interesting formats and new venues — you might just give them the best event they’ve ever been to.