When you want to plan a company event that's memorable and engaging for everyone at work, there are a few things to consider before you start booking. Though you may normally host company events at hotel conference rooms, you don't have to settle for a drab backdrop, boring demonstrations, and uninspired cuisine when planning your next one. If you haven't heard what's going on in corporate event planning, here are some ideas that will get everyone talking around the water cooler.
Tools to Plan
Before you start the planning process, look for booking apps that can make the job easier and more accessible for everyone attending. Booking apps are designed to help streamline the plans and details for both you and the hotel where you're planning to hold the event. Apps can be downloaded to your phone, tablet, or computer, and as plans change, guests arrive, and rooms become available, you can have an up-to-the-minute understanding of how your event will be planned. Because your employees can also use the app, they can find rooms, check in, and also be aware of any changes that are made to the plans.
You may also want to engage guests in social media, like Instagram or Twitter, so you can leave hints about what's to come. Though this takes getting everyone on board with social outlets, you can plan and hype your next event with hashtags, cryptic photos, and tweets that will get everyone excited about the event.
Trends That Top the List
Beyond using booking apps, you should also consider some trends that will liven up the party. Even if you're hosting a conference that isn't entirely meant to entertain, events that are geared toward work can be engaging and inspired with help from some current trends. So when you're in the planning stage of your next company event, look into a few avenues that you may not have considered:
- Bars of Every Sort: Though after-hours cocktail bars, including interactive ones, make for a great event, you don't have to offer alcohol to give employees a good time. Choose themed bars, like juice, desert, nut, appetizer, or doughnut bars, for an unusual treat that is both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Using food bars where items are labeled by bar codes that can be scanned with a phone is another innovative idea that can inspire your team to think outside the box.
- Stylish Centerpieces: Table centerpieces don't have to be simple flower arrangements or coffee carafes for your event. To save money and keep your employees satisfied, think about adding edible arrangements for centerpieces, like pretzel or veggie sticks with dips. If your event is focused on building morale and getting new ideas flowing, use centerpieces made from colorful pencil, pen, or marker arrangements or buckets chock-full of artistic tools.
- Create Your Own: Getting your guests engaged and involved is easier with create-your-own inclusions, like cupcakes or muffins they can decorate, or build-your-own goody bags that can be filled with assorted edibles, baubles, or company gifts. Giving options to expand the imagination and allow everyone to participate in their own way is a great method to build teamwork and company morale.
Contact an establishment like Clarion Hotel - Seattle International Airport to book a conference room and start your planning.
