I’m planning a corporate event, where do I start?
There’s a lot to consider when planning a corporate event, including date and time, food and drink, AV capabilities, entertainment and, of course, the venue. The first thing to do is identify your goal; are you looking to promote a service or product, or boost brand awareness? Once you know your 'why' you can start to build a plan – and choose a venue! Make sure to book a venue plenty of time in advance by browsing our directory or getting in touch with our friendly venue-finding team for some free assistance.
What does venue hire include?
There are lots of different venue hire options and it's important to identify which one is right for you. Some venues offer all-inclusive packages, others might include catering but not added extras like entertainment, while dry hire venues only include use of the space itself. Have a think about how much flexibility you’d like when planning your event and go from there.
I’m planning a private party, can your concierge team help?
Absolutely! Our concierge team are experts in planning both corporate events and private parties. So, whether it’s a special dinner to celebrate an anniversary, a milestone birthday party or an unforgettable baby shower, our concierge team can help.
How much is venue hire?
Venue hire can vary from anything between £200 to £20,000+ depending on the size and style of venue. Some venues include a flat hire fee, while others may charge per head, so speak to your shortlisted venues about their pricing structures before booking.
What is a dry hire venue?
Dry hire includes hire of the venue only, with no additional catering or furnishing. If you prefer to have greater flexibility over the finer details, such as menu options and decor, then dry hire could be the best option for you.
Can I hire a venue for free?
Yes! It really is possible to find free venue hire, but it often means that you’ll have to spend your budget elsewhere. Some venues offer free venue hire on the condition that you use their services and catering. Speak to your chosen venue to see what pricing structures are available.
Can I choose my own catering for my event?
If you have chosen a dry hire venue, then you will be able to use your own caterer. Venues that offer their own in-house catering services may also allow you to use your own caterers for a flat fee.
How many venues should I visit when planning my event?
You don’t have to view a venue before booking one, but it can be a huge help if you’re struggling to decide which one to book. Once you have a venue shortlist (no more than ten), narrow them down to two or three that you’d like to visit. The shorter the list the better to ensure you’re not overwhelmed with choice.