planning a corporate event like a pro

by Vlad & Olga | August 30, 2024
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Events within a busy corporate environment have only developed appreciation among colleagues, motivation to work, and a bond between them that grows strong.

We have facilitated several corporate events, and one thing is certain: well-organized corporate events improve team building and raise the brand’s profile amongst colleagues and customers.

It involves minute details, from selecting a perfect spot to choosing appropriate games. The ultimate goal is to see every employee leave satisfied and with a memorable feeling.

Of course, the latest fad can be listed as luxurious picnic set-ups that integrate nature into the scenery. So, be prepared to play architect for an event that will be the talk of the town long after the last guest has left 🎉✨

Determine the purpose of your event 🎯

Before dwelling into the details of the event organization, you, as a chief and corporate event originator, should first answer the following question: What`s the purpose of this event? Is it to foster team unity, show gratitude to clients, launch a new product, or celebrate a company’s achievement?

Once the objective has been set for the event, the first and foremost step is personalizing the experience to exceed the client’s expectations. For example, a corporate picnic setup can be a novel backdrop for team-building experiences or an elegant backdrop for client appreciation, thereby providing an alternative to traditional company event planning.

Why opt for the same old, overused solutions when the modern alternative delivers its results quicker and without any harm? We are a corporate picnic, the top-of-the-line event organizers in LA. Let us boost your team’s morale so you can all go out in style.

Choose the right venue for your event 📍🌳🏢

If you decide to look for other alternatives, the next step is to choose a location that may decisively influence the dynamics of the event. The location promotes interaction and engagement among team members.

In an event meant to bring together the group with lifelong memories, the venue should be practical and meet the atmospheric needs of the gathering.

  • Choose facilities that permit indoor and outdoor events. Flexibility in the event schedule itself is always a good idea, just in case the weather behaves badly.
  • Consider modern coworking spaces if you want an unforgettable team-building experience. Such venues are suitable for many activities and can accommodate numerous social interactions.
  • Ensure the venue has the needed technology to support any presentations, plus space for group activities or games.
  • Ensure accessibility and convenience are warranted to ensure full participation by the team members. If you consider more participants, there will be enough chairs and tables to accommodate all of them.

Why it`s important: incorporating these key elements into choosing your venue will align with the objectives of promoting team dynamics and ensure a setting that complements the planned activities.

Think of a memorable theme for the event you will organize ✨🎉

A cohesive and well-thought-out theme is critical for bringing your company’s event planning to life.

tablescaping

The theme should dictate everything, from the invitations to the decor, activities, and catering. It should reflect your company’s culture and the purpose of the event and uphold your corporate identity.

Planning tip: The bespoke linens, artisan centerpieces down to the smallest detail, such as artificial flowers, and ambient string lights will add to the setup while ensuring that it qualifies according to your theme and a lasting impression on all employee guests.

Elevate a corporate event 🌺💡

The aesthetic appeal of each setting and the creation of an ambiance create a situation in which real connections and memorable experiences take place. Some mainstays for setting this mood include gourmet catering, fine china, and bespoke decor.

You can book a large picnic party and tailor it to the needs of various organizers’ goals and themes, from casual chic to opulent elegance. This approach will ensure a really unique event that speaks volumes of the company’s appreciation of the attendees.

Engaging activities for corporate event attendees 🖌️🏃‍♂️

A luxury picnic corporate event offers a variety of engaging activities that make it visually memorable and effective. Activities should be chosen according to the theme and setting. It would look weird if you chose Halloween vibes in summer or a Christmas atmosphere during fall.

Here is what you can do, irrespective of the season and the weather, to make your luxury picnic experience one of a class to build up team spirit or client rapport:

  • Group Mural Painting: Set up a large canvas or mural space where teams collaborate to paint a piece representing the company’s values or event theme.
  • Creative Team-Building Exercises: Utilize the open space to implement various creative team-building activities for small groups, such as a scavenger hunt, relay races, or the execution of a group art project. Activities should be targeted toward team spirit, communication, and problem-solving.

Why it`s great? These activities encourage social interaction and can be a sophisticated addition to your event. Here, employee appreciation day event ideas will help you with more inspiration to learn how to show gratitude towards them.

These activities should be entertaining for them and should fall within the event’s goals, such as team cohesion, sparking creativity, or simply relaxation. With some well-thought-out activities, this event can definitely be more than just a meeting-it can be an experience to remember and be talked about over time.

Take care of catering services  🍽️🥗🍇

High-quality gourmet that delights the palate and aligns with the event’s sophisticated theme can significantly elevate the planner’s event.

corporate event cuisine

A menu comprising fresh, locally sourced ingredients, artisan dishes, and fine presentation all speak volumes about quality and extravagance.

What’s more, it is your duty and obligation to consider the food preferences of each guest and the possible limitations of their diets. Otherwise, there is a risk of causing someone’s allergy or poisoning. In this case, we always recommend you have a first aid kit at your side.

Making the scene interactive—not with cooking stations but with picnic baskets—will give the event a personal touch that your guests will most welcome.

For an extra fun twist, why not incorporate a popcorn machine? It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of nostalgia and a sense of playfulness to your event. Plus, freshly popped popcorn is the perfect snack to enjoy during activities or while mingling with colleagues.

Tips for smooth corporate event logistics planning 📅

Proper logistics planning is half the battle won in any corporate event. Everything from invitation cards to transportation shows what will be covered at the event’s core.

From our experience in event planning, one of the most critical things for an outdoor event will be a weather contingency. At work, we checked the weather and created our materials. However, laying with a backup plan during inclement weather was smooth processing, and no hitch happened that would have ruined the whole event.

  • Transportation arrangements: ensure easy access to the venue for all attendees. Reserve a bus or ask the local taxi company to help you transport all the participants. Also, notice whether the members want to drive their vehicles to the event spot or need a solution.
  • Weather contingencies: plan for inclement weather to ensure the event’s smooth progression.
  • Comfortable seating: provide seating that enhances attendees’ comfort.
  • Adequate restroom facilities: ensure restroom facilities are sufficient and accessible.
  • Seamless audio-visual setups: implement effective audio-visual solutions for presentations or entertainment. Outdoor projectors will ensure a good image, while the best outdoor Bluetooth speakers will ensure high-quality sound.
  • Clear communication with vendors: maintain open lines of communication for flawless execution.
  • Onsite coordination: ensure onsite team coordination from setup to breakdown.

Why it`s important: by managing the logistical details, you set the stage for a corporate event that is enjoyable and memorable for all participants.

Promote your event 📣💻💌

Marketing towards the business event planning will drive the highest level of participation and enthusiasm from attendees. Other internal marketing strategies include hard-to-ignore e-mail campaigns, eye-catching posters, and information-sharing intranet posts that build a buzz about the event.

This approach would involve promotional materials designed to create curiosity and anticipation by focusing on what makes that event unique—the exclusivity of an activity, for instance.

Promote your event

Leveraging social media platforms, with teasers of the venue and hints of what’s to come, can also amplify interest.

Create memorable experiences for your team

Corporate event planning takes time and needs a creative yet keenly detailed and well-organized approach. More to the point, it offers a window for business event planning objectives and showcases a dedication to luxury, quality, and creating experiences worth remembering.

With picnic setups, fun activities, and much thought, companies are potentially drawing closer to their staff, clients, and business partners.

FAQs

How early should you start planning a company event?

You should begin planning 3-6 months for small to mid-sized events and 6-12 months in advance for larger events so that you will have the time necessary to find and book a location and select your vendor’s services, as well as allow time to solve any unexpected obstacles that may surface.

What’s the best way to set a budget for a corporate event?

List all the potential expenses, including those for a venue, entertainment, and catering. Allocate extra cost provisions for unforeseen expenses, such as around 10-20% of your total budget. If feasible, draw from past levels achieved in running different events.

How can you enhance attendee engagement at your event?

Use interactive technology, such as event apps, for networking and engagement. Plan for break-out sessions or interactive workshops depending on the event’s theme. Does personalization work where possible? For example, using a customized agenda will do that work.

How can feedback be collected and utilized post-event?

Send a digital survey no more than 24-48 hours after the event when it’s fresh in their minds. Use very directed questions about your objectives, event experience, and what could be improved. Leverage this to inform the next event.

What tips can you offer for selecting event vendors and partners?

Try to find experienced or specialized vendors in such events relative to the corporate event. Check and verify references and reviews for them. Check whether the services they offer will suit your budget and quality. Clearly negotiate the terms to avoid any surprises.

For those seeking to make their next corporate event truly stand out, embracing the concept of luxury picnics may just be the perfect strategy. Discover more company picnic ideas to inspire your next event.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.

Olga and Vlad Picnic Makers

Founders: Vlad and Olga

Hello, beautiful souls! 🌸 We’re Vlad and Olga, the hearts behind Picnic Makers. With years of creating bespoke picnic adventures and luxury events, we’ve mastered the art of bringing joy, celebration, and connection to every moment. Join us as we share a life well-lived. Thanks for being part of our magical story 🌟

Learn more >> About Us >> Contact Us

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