One of the biggest factors to consider when we book an event for our clients is the venue we use to host it. Now while this may seem straight forward, it really isn’t. Is the space the right size for the event? Is there enough parking for all the guests? Can this venue host an event inside if the weather changes?
Our in-house venue specialist Daisy has to ask those questions and a host of others to ensure that our venues match our clients and events needs. However, we have decided to ask several of our venue’s representatives over the next few weeks a key question to give you a better view into venue life in our latest feature – Ask the Expert – The Venues View
The Expert View – Gemma Johnson
To kick things off this week we have Gemma Johnson, Regional Business Development Executive from The Jockey Club venue at Newmarket Racecourses.
What advice would you give to someone organising their first corporate event?
Our biggest piece of advice would be that the venue is key. This can make or break your event. The venue needs to be appropriate for the event you are hosting and have facilities to match.
Things to consider when searching for your ideal venue would be:
1. Accessibility
“Is the venue easily accessible? Does it have road and rail networks? Is it wheelchair friendly? Does it have stairs/ escalators/ lifts?”
2. Facilities
“Is there public wifi? Does it have enough toilets for the size of the event you are looking to hold? Is there electric car charging points? Does it have free onsite parking? Is there nearby accommodation?”
3. Catering
“Is there onsite catering? Is the menu diverse? Does it cater to all dietary requirements? When you are considering which venue to use, ensure you visit the site and check it has all of the amenities that you are looking for.”
“Organising your first corporate event can be daunting, however, at Newmarket Racecourses, we assign a dedicated event planner to help with the logistics of your event. They would be on hand to offer advice and assistance where and when required. Newmarket’s Rowley Mile has over 1000 free parking spaces, two electric charging points, close proximity to A11, A14, Newmarket train station and Stansted Airport.”
The Expert View – Natalie Merrin
Our second venue expert answering our questions is Natalie Merrin, Sales Manager at Cheshire’s stunning Carden Park Hotel.
What’s been the best event you have hosted at your venue?
“One of the best events we have recently held at Carden Park was a Festival in 2018. This was a special company celebration and they wanted to offer their employees something different from their usual event.
With our flexible use of our extensive grounds, we were able to recreate a festival theme for their event, starting from face painting and activities throughout the day in their festival tepee, finishing with 5 piece band and fireworks.
The event went so well as it allowed us to show off what we can do and use all of our grounds and facilities in a different manner and the client was absolutely made up with our flexibility. Being independently owned we always like to listen to our client’s preferences, exceed their expectations by going that extra mile, and use our grounds and estate as best we can.
I’m not sure how we’re going to top it this year for their return but we will make sure we do!”
To view more of the amazing venues we work with, take a look through our venues page.