Whether you've been nominated to help plan the company's annual Christmas party or you're organizing a sales luncheon to showcase your company's latest and greatest product or service, the pressure is on you to create a special event to be remembered. Planning a special event can be a difficult process, and there are many pitfalls you can avoid along the way if you know what to look out for. From choosing the corporate catering provider to arranging for clean up after the event is over, every detail can mean the difference between a great event and an abysmal failure.
One of the first things you need to do when planning your company's special event is to decide exactly what kinds of services you'll need to hire, and what things you can do in house.
Obviously, you're going to need a corporate catering company. But, will you need other services? Will you need a DJ, an LED projector for a computer, or other special services? Identifying the particular tasks involved in the event and then deciding who will do them is one of the most important parts of the planning process.
You also need to think about what the intention truly is for your special event.
If you're revealing a new product or service, you're going to create a very different atmosphere than if you're celebrating someone's retirement. The purpose of the event should affect everything from the guest list right down to the venue in which you choose to hold the special event.
Marketing is a key part of your event, as well.
Obviously, an internal celebration is easier to market than a sales luncheon, but many of the principles are the same. You need to figure out who your target audience is, get the word out, and then give them a good reason to come.
One of the most important things you can think about when it comes to planning your company's event is the corporate catering company.
A good corporate catering company can make a good event into a truly memorable one. A bad catering company can turn a good event into a disaster. You'll want to choose a company you can work with, and one that's willing to listen to your needs. A catering company is about more than just food; a good company will care about the success of your event, not just whether the rice pilaf is correctly prepared. Choose only a catering company that holds to the highest standards, and one that comes highly recommended.
Your choice of corporate catering service can also make other areas of planning easier.
Many catering services can help with other sorts of details, from decorations to entertainment to marketing. In terms of vendors for your event, the caterer is probably the single most important. Talk to your caterer to find out what exactly they can do for you, and how they can work for you to make sure your event is as successful as it can possibly be.
Ann Rivers is the Owner and Chief Party Planner of Great Endings, a North Dallas catering company for over 12 years. Ann and her long-time staff specialize in corporate catering services, wedding planning and special events. Give her a call at 214-390-3989. Or fill in the short-form below, and schedule some time to visit her planning facility and kitchens. She'd be very happy to meet with you at the event venue of your choice if you prefer.
