The right corporate event venue can create great memories. The wrong one can lead to a sense of time and money wasted without purpose. 

At Grande Bay Resort and Spa, we have hosted over 2000 corporate events of different sizes and formats. We have put together a list of points that we recommend you consider when picking a corporate event venue.

What to Consider When Searching for a Venue?

1. Services and Amenities

Catering Facilities:

• Some venues have fully equipped kitchens, enabling them to provide catering services in-house.
• In-house catering simplifies the planning process, ensuring seamless coordination between the culinary team and the venue staff.

Event Essentials:

• Check if the venue provides essential items like tables, chairs, and linens.
• Utilizing these existing items not only saves money but also reduces the logistical challenges associated with transporting and setting up these necessities.

Setup and Cleanup:

• Determine if the venue offers a dedicated team for setup and cleanup.
• A professional setup and cleanup crew streamline the event process, allowing you to focus on the event’s success rather than logistical details.

Audio-Video Options:

• Confirm whether the venue is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual facilities.
• If not, assess the feasibility of bringing in your AV equipment or outsourcing this aspect to a trusted AV service provider.

2. Location

Proximity:

• Consider the venue’s proximity to attendees’ homes, workplaces, and transportation hubs.
• Opt for a central location to ensure accessibility, making it convenient for attendees to reach the venue without extensive travel.

Accessibility:

• Evaluate the venue’s accessibility for all attendees, including those with mobility challenges.
• Adequate parking spaces, ramps, elevators, and restroom facilities catering to individuals with special needs are essential accessibility features.

3. Capacity and Minimums

Room Capacity:

• Ensure the venue’s maximum capacity aligns with your estimated number of attendees.
• Adhere to fire and safety codes to create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone present.

F&B Minimums:

• If the venue provides food and beverages, negotiate F&B minimums based on your event’s requirements.
• Favorable negotiations can lead to additional perks, such as complimentary Wi-Fi or upgraded audio-visual support.

4. Wifi and Internet Access

Connectivity:

• Verify the venue’s Wi-Fi availability and its capacity to handle a large number of connected devices simultaneously.
• A robust and secure Wi-Fi connection is essential for attendees to engage with event apps, access schedules, and share their experiences online.

5. Parking

Venue Parking:

• Check if the venue offers ample parking spaces or valet services.
• Sufficient parking ensures a hassle-free experience for attendees, preventing congestion and delays.

Alternatives:

• Explore nearby parking lots or garages if the venue’s parking is limited.
• Consider providing discounts for parking services or arranging group transportation options for attendees.

6. Layout

Floor Plan:

• Obtain a detailed floor plan showcasing the venue’s layout and amenities.
• Note essential details such as power outlet locations and AV equipment setups to plan your event logistics effectively.

Event Flow:

• Design the layout to accommodate high-traffic areas, such as registration desks and entrances.
• Consider the need for stages, demo areas, and bars based on your event’s activities, ensuring a smooth flow of attendees throughout the venue.

7. Ambiance

Venue Decor:

• Evaluate the venue’s existing decor and architectural style.
• Align the ambiance with your event’s theme to create a cohesive atmosphere, minimizing the need for extensive additional decorations.

8. Acoustics

Sound Quality:

• Assess the venue’s acoustics to ensure optimal sound quality during speeches, presentations, and entertainment segments.
• Address any acoustic challenges by utilizing solutions like acoustical clouds or canopies to enhance attendees’ auditory experience.

9. Flexibility on Event Date

Date Options:

• Remain open to multiple event dates to increase your chances of finding an ideal venue quickly.
• Venues often offer discounted pricing for filling open dates, allowing you to optimize your budget effectively.

10. Internal Service Provider Obligations

Venue Requirements:

• Determine if the venue mandates the use of its internal service providers for catering, AV equipment, decorations, and security.
• Ensure compliance with these requirements, understanding the venue’s policies regarding external service providers.

Crafting Your RFP (Request for Proposal)

When reaching out to potential venues, use a well-structured Request for Proposal (RFP) to clearly outline your event’s needs. A detailed RFP helps venues understand your requirements, enabling you to compare options efficiently and make an informed decision.

In the pursuit of a perfect venue, Grande Bay Resort and Spa stands out as a top choice. Its idyllic beachfront location, elegant indoor and outdoor event spaces, alfresco dining restaurant and exceptional amenities make it an ideal setting for your corporate gathering. Grande Bay takes it a notch higher with an in-house events manager who can support you in planning your team building and recreational activities. By integrating Grande Bay Resort and Spa’s offerings into your Request for Proposal (RFP), you can ensure a successful event that will leave a lasting impression on your attendees, making your corporate gathering truly unforgettable.