Every great event begins with a vision, a concept, and a dream. Turning that dream into reality requires meticulous planning and flawless execution. With the pressure of perfecting the attendee experience, organizers need to find a venue for an event that sets the stage for their vision. It will be the first impression on the attendees and will define how the whole event goes.
It’s not just about a visually pleasing locale, but a lot of considerations go into the selection of the right venue. In this blog, we cover every box you need to check off your list when choosing the right event venue – from costs to event technology support – we’ll make sure you don’t miss anything.
1. Location
The venue’s location is often one of the most critical aspects. As an event organizer, keep the convenience of your target audience in mind when going through locations for events. Consider factors such as proximity to transportation hubs, ease of access, and whether it complements the event’s theme. If most of your attendees are from out of town, it is better to choose a destination near their hotel or the airport so they can commute easily.
2. Service and Amenities
One of the key elements that play a role in venue selection is the services that come with the event venue. Your attendees and exhibitors would be spending hours at the event, some might have an 8 to 10-hour shift. You must provide everything they might need to ensure they stay comfortable. When trying to find a venue for an event, try to look for the following:
- Catering Service: Many venues offer in-house catering or partner with professional catering companies. Consider the quality and diversity of the menu options, as well as their ability to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions.
- Furniture and Seating: Look for event venues that offer furniture, linen, and tableware options that you can style according to the event theme. Vendors may offer a discount or include the furniture within the venue package. You’ll also save time and hassle of dealing with multiple vendors.
- Event Staff: Having a professional crew to set up and clean up can be a lifesaver. This support ensures that your event starts and ends smoothly, allowing you to focus on the main event activities.
- Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Choose an event venue that is well-equipped with Wi-Fi so that your event runs smoothly. This way presenters can ensure live streaming and attendees can stay connected throughout.
- A/V Equipment: If the venue provides the audio and video equipment including microphones and screens, it will improve the efficiency as you won’t have to worry about it separately.
- Lights: Check with the event venue providers about what options they have for lighting the space, and choose the ones that suit your event theme and feel.
3. Cost
While you dream about the ideal event venue, it’s vital to keep one foot firmly planted in reality by considering your event budget. Determining how much you can spend on the venue is a fundamental step in the event venue selection process. When you are trying to find a venue for an event, here are the budgeting points to consider:
- Begin by setting a clear budget for your event.
- Be sure to consider any additional expenses, such as service charges, taxes, and security deposits.
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate to get the best deal possible.
- Compare the value of the venue with its cost and see if it’s reasonable.
- Research and visit multiple options within your budget range to compare what each one has to offer.
- Understand hidden costs, cancellation policies, and overtime charges of the event venue.
- Be realistic and flexible when finding the perfect balance between your vision and your budget.
4. Ambiance
Ambiance is the intangible essence of an event that captivates attendees. It’s not just about the venue’s physical attributes, but how it can transform the guest experience. Find a venue for an event that complements the aesthetics of your event theme. Are the colors, lighting, and overall design in sync with your event’s vibe?
A well-decorated venue can immediately immerse attendees in the desired mood. Small details, such as table settings, centerpieces, and the overall layout, should harmonize with the ambiance you wish to create. If it’s a pop-up event, product launch, or holiday party, you can go for funky lights to match the theme.
5. Venue Capacity
The primary role of any event venue is to provide a suitable venue space for your guests. Find a venue for an event that can accommodate your anticipated number of attendees. An overcrowded venue can be uncomfortable while a venue that is too large can make your event feel sparse and disconnected.
Beyond just the headcount, consider how the layout and configuration affect venue capacity. Different types of events, such as conferences, weddings, or exhibitions, may require unique seating arrangements. The venue must offer flexibility, allowing for adjustments as needed. This can be particularly advantageous when your event involves breakout sessions, workshops, or multiple activities.
6. Parking
Having a parking lot with your event venue would be ideal so look for one that has on-site parking available. However, you still have a few alternatives to look into if that is not the case.
Here are some options if your event venue doesn’t offer parking:
- Rented Parking Lots: Book a nearby parking lot and include the price in the event ticket or let attendees pay when they park.
- Discount Codes for Uber: You can offer coupons to attendees to get to the venue through Uber or Lyft and encourage them to carpool.
- Valet Parking: If you are hosting a huge event such as a Gala, you can offer valet parking to attendees and exhibitors.
7. Accessibility
According to WHO, 2 billion people in the world live with a disability, 20% of whom face difficulties in their daily functions. By prioritizing accessibility, you create a more inclusive and welcoming event for differently-abled people and expand your potential attendee base.
Check for event venues that offer features like ramps, elevators, and wide doorways to accommodate wheelchairs. Accessible restrooms with adequate space are also crucial. To prepare beforehand, you can customize your event registration forms to collect disability information.
8. Contract Flexibility
Always expect the unexpected. Circumstances can change and you might have to cancel or postpone your event. Especially for outdoor events, even a downpour can put the arrangements on halt. In such cases, a flexible event contract can save you from losing your deposit.
It is a good idea to negotiate flexible contract terms with the event venue providers. You can include force majeure and disaster-related clauses in your contract in case of a natural disaster or a lockdown order.
9. Acoustics
Acoustics, the unseen conductor of your event’s auditory symphony, holds the power to make or break your guests’ experience. When you are out to find a venue for an event, make sure to test the acoustics of the venue spaces you’re considering.
It depends on what kind of event you are hosting and how sound works in a certain place. For example, a low ceiling can create an intimate atmosphere, but when the place is packed, it can also amplify sound to ear-ringing levels. It’s like packing a concert into your living room. Acoustical clouds and canopies can be a great choice to go for.
10. Event Tech
For hybrid events, you need to incorporate your virtual audiences as well. That needs sufficient event tech to make sure everybody stays connected. Here are some event tech options you should consider:
- Live Webinar: When you live stream your webinar, you allow the online attendees to enjoy the event in real-time. Not only that, but anyone running late for the venue can also benefit from it.
- Event Apps: Allow attendees to network on their mobile phones, display sponsors, and check-in attendees faster at the event venue with a mobile app.
- Badge Scanning: Once you provide unique QR codes displayed on attendee badges, it is easier to scan them and make check-ins faster.
- AV Tech: Entertainment activities can only be used to the fullest with proper audio and video provision at the event venue. When you find a venue for an event, make sure that their AV production is up to the mark.
Final Verdict: Elevate Your Events with the Right Venue
A successful event is not merely about the physical space. It’s about creating an immersive and memorable experience for your attendees. You need to keep your event theme, budget, and objectives in mind when you’re out to find a venue for an event. From location to ambiance, capacity, accessibility, acoustics, and event tech, every detail contributes to the overall guest experience. So, choose wisely, consider all the nuances, and let your event shine.
