You’ve got the million-dollar business idea, the passion, the product, the drive and the enthusiasm, but do you know how to throw a corporate event that will impress clients and stakeholders? We spoke to Sydney’s most glamorous and award winning venue group, Doltone House, who have set the stage for some of Australia’s most well known businesses events, gala dinners, catwalk shows, exhibitions, meetings and more, to reveal the secrets to successful corporate events…
1. Set The Scene!
Top locations will impress the corporate crew before they even enter the room, so set the scene with a show-stopping location with stellar views. Top picks include waterfront and harbour-side locations, as well as stunning views of greenery and parks, city skylines and iconic features, like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
2. Make it ‘Access All Areas’
The easier your corporate event is to get to, the more appealing it will be. Make sure your venue has parking available and access to public transport – buses, light rail, ferries and trains, or at least be within walking distance of transport. Access to your event by water taxi or chartered boat will really impress guests!
3. Add Form, Function & Flair
Décor, decorations and flowers can make a huge first impression. Your corporate event should be reflective of your business in some way, so consider what makes it special. If it’s a creative business, set the scene of your event with stunning decorations and flower arrangements. A prestige business selling five-star services might choose a stylish and contemporary venue, with five-star facilities. Or perhaps your going for a more traditional feel, in which case a heritage room might be more appropriate.
4. Create Room & Movement
Whether it’s a gala event for 500 people, a catwalk show for 1,000 fashionistas, an exhibition for thousands over multiple days, a sales conference for 80 or a business meeting for 20 people, choosing the appropriate venue and space for the guest list is paramount. For smaller parties or corporate meetings, an inviting meeting room might be more suitable (park or water views is a bonus!). For conferences, check capacity and speak to the venue organiser about acoustics and onsite facilities, such as podiums, touch screen technology and other essentials required to host a seamless presentation. Larger capacity spaces with seating and stages are perfect for gala events and black-tie dinners, with rest areas and room to socialise.
Networking spaces are a huge bonus. Informal areas that encourage relaxation and relationship building. Outdoor entertainment spaces are a great breakout area and option for guests to soak up the atmosphere and views while networking in a relaxed setting. Speak to the venue catering team for their expert advice on the right space for the right event and guest list.
5. Impress With Sipping & Catering
You may have the most compelling business proposition, but it’s often the incredible food that guests remember! Choose a venue that offers wow food, caters for allergies and intolerances and offers great refreshments and beverages and you’ll be ticking the boxes. Speak to the food and beverage team for great advice on popular, modern and traditional options, serving sizes, timings and more to ensure guests are happy.
Doltone House Venue & Catering Collection are hosting a free Business Events Open House on Tuesday 23rd and Wednesday 24th of February at their venue in Sylvania Waters. Register here to book your tour date and session time.
BOOK IT: Doltone House Venue & Catering Collection are holding a free Business Events Open House on March 1st, 2016, at their other three venues – Jones Bay Wharf, Darling Island and Hyde Park. Guests will be able to sip and savour while discovering what’s new at Doltone House in 2016, with personalised tours of the venues. Get expert tips on the latest trends, hospitality, styling and winning tricks to host an incredible business event. Register now for the different tour sessions and venues.
This is a sponsored post by Doltone House. All opinions expressed by the author are authentic and written in their own words.
