Choosing a venue is the one decision that will have the largest impact on your event. The date, time, catering options, and attendees’ pleasant experiences are all partly affected by which venue you select. This may sound intimidating so here are some guidelines about when to make a decision, what to consider, and how to do better!
Make it easy for me and my guests and I’ll choose your venue. Have Valet options available, and if you do not, there are companies that outsource this - it makes a difference, especially for those that have a hard time getting around, or if the weather is not cooperating!
You must be able to accommodate multiple themes to attract the largest customer base. Customers pay for experiences, not for cookie-cutter menus and one size fits all establishments. Think Disco, Big Band, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, etc!
Are you a one-stop-shop for packages including photography, music, food, tables, linens, chairs, AV equipment, setup crew, and clean up crew? Clients look to have as much as possible included so that they know they are getting what they paid for and can count on the necessities being taken care come the day of their event.
If there are out of town guests attending you must be accessible and easy to find. If you want to reduce the chances of attendees showing up late, provide them with a mobile event app, which is essentially a standard these days.
What does the existing decor look like? Is it easily able to be changed? Updated for an expo or a gala? The more universal your decor is the less decorating you will have to provide for each event. For activities, if you are having a keynote speaker do you have access to a stage, podium, or at least a spot to place a rented stage? Will you need a demo area and do you have a large space set aside for a bar? All of these items can be the deciding factors as to why one would choose one venue space over another, and great experiences equal great referrals for your next event from your last happy guest!
Author: Jeanette Sciandra