As we settle into 2018, we need to start the process of planning our events. The New Year brings plenty of exciting new trends, and we are sharing our top tips to throwing a fantastic event. Keep on reading for our best corporate event ideas of 2018...
Well Planned Idea
All good corporate events start with an excellent idea, one that represents the brand’s values and core strategy. It’s not enough to simply ‘throw a party’ but to entice the right guests, find the correct event entertainment and create an image that represents and understands the brand's objectives. For example, a carnival-inspired event isn’t a style that would suit a law firm. While you need to stand out and be considered exciting, you cannot stray too far from your brand values with corporate event ideas. Detailed prior planning also helps you gain insights into the budget, manage how much of it has been spent, alongside when and where.
Good Location
One of our top corporate party ideas is to pick an event suited for guests. When hosting a trade show or product launch, for example, a central location is recommended. You need an area that is accessible for the majority of your guests, and in a sought-after location. It’s also worthwhile looking at large spaces, such as function rooms within popular bars when it comes to corporate event ideas. You need a position that is easy to get to and offers good public transport links and parking, as well as accessible entrances.
Unique Venue
A hotel or conference centre will not cut it in 2018. This year is all about unique corporate event ideas and venues. The wow factor starts as soon as your guests turn up to the occasion. If you are hosting a product launch or event regarding a new business service, you want your guests to walk away needing your brand. To do so, you need to offer excitement and a reason to work with you. Make a statement by looking into the most popular bars and restaurants within the city, but always inquire as to whether they have enough space for your event and guests. If you opt to follow our corporate event ideas and choose a unique venue, you are likely to entice more guests, particularly those your company is looking to attract.
Industrial Style
Industrial is a theme we are seeing a lot of already in 2018, and it’s one to look out for with office party ideas and corporate events. The industrial trend perfectly complements most brand values and, most importantly, looks good. While you want your guests to buy what you are selling or discussing, your event needs to look good. First impressions count in the business world, and you need to make a statement as soon as your guests arrive. Think copper structures, concrete and steel accessories to help decorate your venue, or your pop-up stalls etc.
Props
Props are the next big trend in 2018. A DJ and a photo booth aren’t enough (although, the photo booth is always fun). However, it’s not just any props that are part of our unique corporate event ideas, but giant props. Think outside the box (literally) for your event. You could place huge social frames around your venue, as a fantastic way of engaging social media and encouraging your guests to share pictures of the party. Similarly, if you are throwing a product launch, you could incorporate the product into your props. A London cosmetic campaign event boasted the slogan ‘keep calm and cherry on’, and placed giant, photo-worthy cherries around the event. If it’s not a corporate event and you are just looking for office party ideas, you can still use the idea but perhaps use props more relevant to your industry.
Innovative Catering
Food no longer has the backseat at events. Catering expectations are high in 2018, especially as the foundation to all good corporate event ideas. This year, event planners are expected to push the bounds of creativity and produce food that is truly astounding (and social media worthy). You could create edible cocktails that feature your company’s colours, appetisers boasting your business logo and so on; the possibilities are endless. You could even follow the Pinterest trends and combine food with event entertainment, with DIY popcorn and cake stalls, for example.
Games
As mentioned above, you cannot forget event entertainment. In this day and age, where guests expect to be entertained from the start to the finish, you must offer them some incentive to buy your product or work with your company. Corporate entertainment ideas have come a long way in the past decade, and you can hire almost any game. As event entertainment hire experts, we offer a range of services for your corporate party. Our most popular is casino theme hire, with roulette tables, poker and blackjack available. The casino theme is looking to hit huge heights in 2018. Likewise, summer events could incorporate the fun of the fair with carnival hire. Think ‘roll the ball’ and ‘basketball shootout’ for event entertainment.
If you would like to discuss corporate entertainment ideas, get in touch with one of our team today who will ensure your event is memorable.
If you would like to discuss corporate entertainment ideas, get in touch with one of our team today who will ensure your event is memorable.