Why the Right Venue Can Make or Break Your Corporate Event?

When selecting the perfect event space for corporate events in Omaha, it's common to have this thought in mind, - "Why Does Venue Selection Matter So Much for Corporate Events?" Well, the answer lies in the fact that the venue can genuinely make or break your corporate event.

No matter, you've been tasked with hosting employees celebrations, award parties or sales conferences, the event space sets the stage for how attendees will experience your occasion.

So, how will you ensure that you've picked the right venue which is ideal for your company and guests? What factors should you consider to evaluate the potential spaces effectively? In this post, we've covered why choosing the right corporate event venue in Omaha matters, and we've shared insider tips for corporate event success. Read on to know.

Why Does the Right Corporate Event Venue Matter?

You likely put careful thought into your event goals, budget, activities, food and beverage selection, audiovisual needs, décor decisions, and more during the corporate event planning process. But your event space choice in Omaha ties all these details together into one cohesive guest experience.

Here’s why choosing the right corporate event space is so critical:

• It Sets the Tone and Vibe:

The corporate event venue you select influences the overall ambiance and tone of your event. Consider the impression you want to make. Do you envision a glitzy awards gala or an informal employee picnic? Formal banquet hall or relaxed coffee house vibe? The event space should align with your desired atmosphere.

• It Can Make or Break the Budget:

Before you fall in love with a venue, examine the budget implications. Beyond the rental fees, evaluate catering costs, fees for tables/chairs/linens, labor charges, insurance requirements, and any hidden expenses. An affordable venue choice leaves room in your budget for ideal food, décor, entertainment, AV, etc.

• It Impacts Convenience and Accessibility:

For attendee satisfaction, convenience is key. Consider if the venue has ample parking, is accessible by public transit, and accommodates those with disabilities. Also, evaluate if the location is easy for attendees to access from their lodging for multi-day events.

• It Sets Capacity Expectations:

There’s nothing worse than picking a space that’s too small and leaves eager attendees disappointed. Or securing one far too large for your guest list, resulting in a sea of empty tables. Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected (and maximum possible) attendance.

• It Can Make Set Up and Logistics Simple or Complex:

Some spaces are a dream to transform with lighting/sound, catering stations, registration tables, etc. Others have restrictions and limitations that complicate décor and vendor coordination. Factor in set up/tear down time, lodging/traffic/parking implications, noise issues, union and insurance requirements, power accessibility, and more.

• It Directly Impacts the Attendee Experience:

Are you a raving fan who can’t stop talking about your amazing event? Or are bored attendees counting down the minutes for the exit? The corporate event venue significantly shapes guest experience and satisfaction.

Essential Checklist for Booking a Corporate Event Venue

When touring potential corporate event venues, keep this comprehensive checklist top of mind:

• Location and Accessibility:

Consider proximity for attendees traveling to the event. Easy access from major highways and airports is ideal. Validate parking availability and costs.

• Capacity:

Will the venue accommodate your expected guest count? Make sure the space is large enough for your headcount, desired room layout, activities, booths, etc.

• Ambience:

The venue should align with your company brand, culture, and event vision. Consider décor, lighting, acoustics, etc.

• On-Site Amenities:

From AV equipment to Wi-Fi, what's included vs. what will need to be rented? Validate any amenity costs.

• Catering and Bar Services:

Ask about on-site vs. outside catering and bartending policies. Review menus and pricing options.

• Layout Flexibility:

Make sure the venue offers enough flexibility to achieve your ideal room design, seating arrangements, stage/podium placement, etc.

• Load-In/Load-Out Access:

Validate ease of load-in/load-out access for event materials, vendor equipment, supplies, etc. See if the venue has experience coordinating with event vendors related to deliveries, equipment setup, etc.

• Technology:

Validate Wi-Fi capacity, outlets, AV equipment, and support for presentations, charging stations, virtual attendees, etc. Ask what staffing is included with the venue rental to assist throughout the event if needed.

• Budget:

Get detailed pricing estimates and understand what's included. Make sure the venue fits within the budget.

• Safety Precautions:

Ask about venue protocols related to emergencies, security, first aid, disease mitigation, weather, etc.

• References:

Request 2-3 client references that have hosted comparable corporate events.

By thoroughly vetting venues against this checklist, you'll ensure you select a space primed for corporate event success!

Top Tips for a Successful Corporate Event

Beyond using the checklist above to assess venue options, keep these success tips in mind:

1. Start Your Venue Search Early: Ideally begin touring venue options 6-12 months in advance for large corporate events. Popular venues book out fast, especially during peak seasons.

2. Tap Your Network: Talk to planner peers about venue referrals. Check corporate event space reviews online. Reach out to CVBs and event marketing firms for advice.

3. See Spaces in Person: If possible, visit venues in person versus relying on photos and virtual tours alone. Get a first-hand feel for the vibe, flow, sight lines, and versatility.

4. Visualize Floor Plans: Have your short list of venues provide sample floor plans for your expected headcount and event components. Review traffic flow, seating, staging, etc.

5. Create a Venue Shortlist Matrix: Track venue specs, pricing, and pros/cons in an at-a-glance matrix to easily compare top contenders.

Bottom Line

Securing a corporate event venue aligned with your desired atmosphere, attendance, experience goals, and budget may feel daunting. But the right corporate event venue in Omaha truly transforms an ordinary company gathering into an extraordinary occasion.Follow our handy venue selection checklist to identify options primed for success.

Ready to pick the corporate event space that uniquely brings your company celebration, sales meeting, gala, and more to life? Reach out to Omaha Sports and Games Events now. Contact our team today or explore further venue details here to lock in ideal dates!