Companies are starting to host corporate parties to for the purpose of networking and building customer relationships. According to a study, the meeting industry contributes $106 billion to the GDP (Gross Domestic Product).
A great way to plan a corporate event is to satisfy the following elements:
- Vision: Prior to planning, clearly define the goals and objectives for the event by consulting with your client. Keep your notes about all conversations with vendors and with your client.
- Budget: When setting a budget, be aware of the following: promotional/marketing expenses, venue rental, security, catering, alcohol, booklets, name tags, printing, paying for speakers or special guests, table décor, entertainment, photography, event insurance
- Venue: Consider the size and location of the venue. Is it easy accessible? Will there be enough room for all the guests, comfortably? If the venue is outdoors, be sure to account for the weather.
- Timeline: Create a schedule of events and share it will all vendors. This will encourage you to follow the schedule yourself. On your timeline you should include: venue set-up, guest arrival, cocktail and dinner serving times, speakers or presentation times, closing ceremonies, clean-up and any other details that are unique to each event
- Décor: Develop a theme for the event, in accordance to the vision of your client. Check Pinterest for some ideas or color combinations. Are there any special touches you can add to make the event stand out.
- Catering: Never skimp on the food, especially when planning a corporate party. The food should be of good quality and presented nicely. No one has time for bad food. Also try to offer a variety of foods to make sure there is something for everyone.
- Entertainment: This can make or break an event. If you have music, make sure it compliments the theme of the party. If you have live music, listen to a sample before. Caricature artists, photographers and of course, psychics, can be great additions to the event.