CORPORATE VENUES
IN WITH THE NEW The beautiful Poets House is steeped in history, but has been renovated into a chic, modern venue
“It’s so important to visit the venue in person. Walk through the space as many times as you need to really picture how your event will unfold. Seeing the layout first-hand can help you plan the flow of the day”
Delegates should be able to sit and move around comfortably. Consider whether the space has natural light, climate control and the right AV equipment for your needs, together with technical support,” says Wain. Layout is key, as general manager of Poets House, Christine Gallop, adds: “Ensure that the venue has adaptable spaces to suit your guest numbers, from intimate boardrooms to larger reception areas for taking breaks.” If it’s a multi-day gathering, try looking for a hotel that can also provide residential event hosting, offering sufficient bedrooms to accommodate your guests, as well as enough meeting rooms for your needs. The level of catering you require will likely be informed by the timing and length of your event, so be sure to find out what venues can offer in this regard. Where food is concerned, Wain shares that many venues will evolve
their menus according to what’s local and in season – whether it be a simple sandwich lunch or a three-course formal dinner. “Ask to see sample menus, and make sure to have your delegates’ dietary requirements to hand, as this information will help catering teams better plan their menus and orders,” she adds. Don’t forget to be aware of the venue’s character and tone too, “which should reflect your brand and purpose,” says Lizzie Baker, marketing executive at The Gonville Hotel. To get a thorough understanding of a venue’s ambience and offering, our experts all agree on the value of a visit. “It’s so important to visit the venue in person,” affirms Alejandro Raton Fernandez of University Arms Hotel. “Walk through the space as many times as you need to really picture how your event will unfold. Seeing the layout first-hand can help you plan the flow of the day, fine-tune the
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