How small events make a big impact
Small events are still prevalent even though restrictions have now eased. Groups are meeting in reduced numbers for face-to-face occasions as well as online for virtual and hybrid gatherings. Looking for inspiration for your next event? Read on as I share my top tips to make a big impact with little events.
? Choose a venue to make an immediate impact
These days, the volume of choice of event spaces is exceptional. So much so, finding a meeting room for 30 people can be a daunting task! Try to opt for an inspiring venue, perhaps with a link to the content of your event. Does the history of the venue blend with the theme of your conference? Importantly, think about what inspires and engages your guests. I love the newly refurbished Holmes Hotel in Baker Street. With notable nods to Sherlock Holmes throughout, the residence is the perfect space to bring a boutique event to life. With a homely feel, there is a kitchen space where you can help yourself to a drink from the fridge before heading to the Billiards Room for a boardroom meeting or dinner around the cleverly designed snooker table. You can even sneak outside for a drink on their hidden gem terrace.
? Make your content count
Let’s face it; your guests may feel apprehensive about returning to live events following the pandemic. More so than ever, it is vital to make the content of your event count. Ensure the day is compelling enough to entice your audience to attend. The last thing you want is people dropping out. With smaller groups, you tend to have more flexibility to be creative with how the content is delivered. Could you use group work more? Perhaps inject elements of gamification to enhance engagement. You could even introduce a team-building activity throughout the day. The team at GOTO events offer inspiring games that can break up the day and get your team working together again. I love their Master of Tasks activity – based on the famous TV show, and it gets people collaborating and giggling at the same time!
? Food (and drink) for thought
As the famous saying goes, the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. Do you agree? From my experience, food and drink are critical considerations when planning any event. Catering for a pint-sized, intimate affair means you can be much more creative than perhaps for 500 conference delegates. Why not offer everyone a personal bento box style lunch instead of the typical fork buffet. I love the pantry bag idea provided by the Hoxton Hotels. Also, mix up the drinks on offer; a tropical fruit smoothie station during your mid-morning break would give everyone a healthy boost!
? Hybrid potential
Whilst you might only be able to have smaller numbers in person at your event, that doesn’t mean you can’t deliver a hybrid event to a broader virtual audience. With the right choice of venue and agenda, this is not as complex as it may sound. Many event spaces have everything you need to deliver a hybrid event. Alternatively, give the guys at MSP a shout. They have excellent cost-effective online event solutions. Take the day to the next level of engagement, send your virtual audience a gift hamper containing similar food options to those attending in person. It will feel almost like everyone is in the same room. My go-to hamper supplier is Moving Venue. Their food options are divine – remember that saying about a way to someone’s heart!
Diary of a Party Girl
For lots more tips and ideas, contact the friendly team at Eventify. They will find you the perfect venue for your next small event and guide you through the entire planning process too with full event management. No event is too small!
Planning a special small event?
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