When you think about it, finding the right venue
for your event is not so easy. The decision would be so simple
if it just boiled down to your numbers, budget and location. Here
are some ideas from the EventWise team to get you started. Click
any of the links below to jump straight to a section.
If you have 100 guests or more, and would
like EventWise to organise your event, or help you find a venue,
simply fill out this briefing form. Our team will provide their
services at no additional cost to you.
Budget
Your budget will
provide a good start point for your venue search, and
will dictate whether you can use a top venue or something
slightly less grand.
However, with
some imagination you can often find a unusual venue
which both fits the budget and impresses the guests.
Check out museums, galleries, boats and places like
the zoo.
Another good
way to ensure value for money and reduce hassle is to
opt for an All Inclusive Party Package. Organised by
the venue, or professional Event Organiser, these frequently
include food, drink, theming and entertainment. If your
numbers are low you can opt to share the event with
others at the same venue.
Check when you
are required to make payments. Deposits of between 10%
and 50% are usually required when you confirm, with
the final payment being required a couple of months
beforehand. Check through the cancellation policy before
signing up.
Guest Numbers
Get a good estimate
for your numbers. Many venues can be ruled out early
in your search if you know your guest numbers. Venues
can be suprisingly precise about maximum numbers, so
either get your numbers right or make sure the venue
can cope with a few more. Always factor in how many
refusals / no shows you think you will get.
Date
The most popular dates
for corporate events are Thursdays and Fridays. You
should book as far ahead as possible.The more time you
have to book the more precise you can be with you date.
But always allow some flexibility until the venue is
booked.
When to Book
Booking the venue
is the first step you should take. It's never too early!
Most of the top London venues are booked up months ahead
- for instance the key dates for Christmas are already
booked. If you're unsure but want to get started you
can always make a provisional booking to hold a date.
Budget
