Planning a corporate event and not sure where to start? With so much planning involved, putting together a great corporate event is no easy task. There are so many different elements to consider and decisions to make that it can often seem overwhelming.

Let’s face it, corporate events often don’t bring up memories of fun and excitement. However, you can easily break the mould. Whether it’s being conducted via Zoom or face-to-face, the best and most memorable corporate events are out the box, innovative and different.

Organising a successful corporate event doesn’t need to be stressful. With some careful planning, you can easily lay the foundations you need to ensure your event goes to plan! Thirst outlines 8 essential tips to ensure your next event is unforgettable.

1. Over budget

Working with a budget that’s stretched thin will make planning your event even more stressful and limiting. Instead, inflate your costs slightly higher than you’re expecting. Also allocate a contingency amount to cover unforeseen extras (There are always unforeseen costs when it comes to events). If you’re left with extra, you can use it for last-minute wow factors or set it aside for your next event.

2. Know your audience

Make sure you really understand your audience in order to determine the activities, entertainment and food. Think about what the majority of your guests would love and plan accordingly.

3. It’s all in the detail

Remember that every touchpoint is an instrumental part of the experience. Guests might not notice when things go right, but they certainly notice when they go wrong. Choose an event theme that will set the tone, and influence all other aspects of the event.

4. Location, location, location!

Regardless of how great the venue is, if it’s hard to get to or too far away, it is likely to become a logistical nightmare. Choose a venue that’s convenient and easily accessible. If it is situated far away, make sure you organise transportation.

5. Always have a Plan B

Since things are often unpredictable, it never hurts to be a little bit over prepared. While you can’t foresee the future, be ready to expect the unexpected. Things like weather are only predictable to a point. Put in place alternate venues and setups to ensure that the party will go on.

6. Make sure the drinks are sorted

Nothing can put a damper on a party as much as a long line at the bar or a long wait for a drink. A well stocked and staffed bar is something that is often a blind spot for event planners and organisers. But getting your drinks right from mixing cocktails, to serving, is key to a successful event. Make sure you do things properly with a Thirst mobile bar.

At Thirst, we believe in pushing the boundaries and this has been translated into our cocktail experience. By using the freshest ingredients and premium spirits in our cocktails each and every element is considered. This is a great add on to any event at any venue across the country. What’s more our bars can be customised to fit briefs, budgets and brands.

7. Don’t forget the food

Food is one of the most vital elements of any event. Whether you choose a sit-down meal, a buffet, a food truck, or different food stations, make sure you choose a reputable caterer who has had experience running a corporate style event.

8. Take it outdoors

With venue capacities currently limited due to social distancing and gatherings dependent on the size of the space, it’s a good idea to get outdoors if you want to host a physical event. The summer weather will be perfect to get out in the sunshine, whether you choose an outdoor venue, or get creative by heading to a game reserve or venue set in nature.