When it comes to planning a corporate event, the brief is often two-fold: deliver something professional, polished and on-brand while still making it enjoyable and engaging for everyone in the room.
Too formal and it can feel like an extension of the working day. Alternatively, too relaxed and the message may get lost. Finding the sweet spot between the two isn’t just important, it’s what will make your event engaging and memorable.
At Glaziers Hall, it’s something our team can support with. Working alongside clients, we help those planning corporate events to find a tone that reflects their business values without losing the energy that turns a good event into a great event.
Start With Purpose
Before choosing a theme, activity or menu, think about the objective. Is it to celebrate success? Share knowledge? Build relationships? Once that’s clear, it’s easier to define the atmosphere you’re trying to create.
For example, a teambuilding event might allow for a more relaxed environment perhaps with informal seating, group activities or opportunities for people to win prizes. A product launch on the other hand could benefit from the space to really showcase the item or range with the opportunity for those attending to ask lots of questions and find out more.
Let the Venue do the Heavy Lifting
The setting plays a crucial part in any event. Glaziers Hall is a space that can easily adapt to both formal and more relaxed functions. Its riverside location and mixture of stained-glass features, historic architecture and modern AV equipment makes it the perfect choice for companies that want atmosphere and functionality.
Many clients choose the Banqueting Suite for awards evenings with theatre-style seating, while others opt for the River Room or The London Bridge Arches to host intimate networking sessions.
Think Outside the Box
Engagement will make or break your event. If your agenda includes speakers or presentations, consider formats that will hold the attention of your guests. Panel discussions, live Q&As or interactive elements often work well. Finding the right balance between information and interaction is key.
Adding in a surprise element, like a branded cocktail bar, live sketch artist or a tasting station can lift the energy, particularly when you are delivering full-day events that could include breakfast, lunch and possibly even dinner.
Provisions Make a Difference
Let’s be honest – nobody remembers a great spreadsheet, but they do remember great food. Glaziers Hall works closely with its resident catering partner, Life’s Kitchen, to create menus that reflect the tone of the event. Whether it’s canapés or a formal three-course dinner.
It’s about creating an experience that feels elevated but not rigid. A well-planned drinks reception with non-alcoholic options can also help to encourage guests to relax and interact.
Keep Timing in Mind
A successful agenda doesn’t just focus on content, it flows. Be mindful of how much content your audience can take in and allow time for natural breaks and informal conversations.
Too much information can be overwhelming. An agenda that has been well thought out helps guests to absorb what matters, while still enjoying the event.
Rely on Your Team
You can’t be everywhere at once and you don’t need to be. Working with an experienced events team means you can trust that the logistics are under control, allowing you to focus on your guests and goals. That’s why Glaziers Hall provides clients with a dedicated events team, working behind the scenes to ensure the flow, feel and format of the day aligns with your goals.
From technical setup to subtle touches, like background music and lighting, every detail contributes to the overall experience. It’s this behind-the-scenes support that ensures you can deliver a smooth and well-balanced occasion.
Your Event
Professionalism doesn’t have to mean rigid, and fun doesn’t have to mean fanciful. With a clear purpose, the right venue and team will make all the difference, making it possible to deliver a corporate event that informs and entertains in equal measure.
If you’re planning your next corporate conference and want to create something that gets people talking (for the right reasons), the team at Glaziers Hall would be pleased to support you. Simply give us a call, to book a venue tour.