By Ashely Davidson, The Legends Golf Club
Does your company have something to celebrate? Now’s the perfect time to plan a company picnic, anniversary party, training retreat, or employee appreciation event. Here are some tips for planning a successful celebration for your co-workers.
Choose the Date Carefully
If your company is celebrating a milestone, the date can guide your timing – but don’t get too hemmed in by an exact anniversary date. It’s more important to avoid days that will prevent your co-workers from being able to attend, like holidays, company conferences, or industry conventions.
Location, Location, Location
Venue selection is key. You’ll need a place that’s big enough to accommodate everyone, taking into consideration the season and weather. Make sure your venue has enough parking, restrooms, seating, and socializing space to create a pleasant atmosphere. Business events usually fall somewhere between casual and formal in terms of style – more formal than a family get-together, but far less fancy than a wedding. Locate a venue that’s familiar with hosting business events and can match your company’s culture.
A wedding venue can actually be a great place to hold a company event. Wedding venues are used to hosting crowds, have excellent behind-the-scenes services like food, drink, bathroom maintenance, and trash removal, and they offer a beautiful spot for your co-workers to enjoy. A local golf course makes a great choice, because businesspeople are often familiar with golf and course staff members are used to providing a high level of service.
Ask the Experts
After you’ve settled on a location, don’t hesitate to ask your venue contact for advice. Any venue that hosts crowds usually has an events coordinator who can answer questions. Remember, they have handled numerous special events and are well-versed in the kinds of details that come with planning a gathering. Work with your venue as you select other vendors, like bartenders, linens, and entertainment, to ensure everything will come together smoothly.
Don’t Skimp on Food
The quickest way to dampen the mood is to leave your guests’ stomachs rumbling. Budget for quality food and drink options that will leave a good impression on your co-workers. Ask your venue about in-house catering options or nearby restaurants. You can also bring in a local chef, as long as the venue is willing, or hire a food truck to bring a variety of fun food right to your event. You could even offer small boxes of take-home treats for your co-workers to enjoy later.
Add Something Special
Make the event memorable by adding some special touches. Music sets the mood. Play it over in-venue a/v equipment, or hire a deejay, local band, or group of youth musicians. Plan door prizes to announce throughout the night. Invite a motivational speaker or team-building presenter to offer your company some inspiration. A custom audio/video presentation is also a great way to celebrate your team’s achievements.
Preserve the Moment
When planning a business event, remember to capture the memories. Consider hiring a professional photographer or putting a willing employee in charge of photography. Work with your venue to select a great place for group photos, because a company event is the perfect place to include everyone in a group shot. Don’t forget to share photos on social media and boost morale for your whole company.
Looking for a legendary place to hold your next company celebration? Consider The Legends Golf Club.
Ashely Davidson is the Member, Event and Wedding Coordinator at The Legends in Franklin, IN. If you are planning an event, please feel free to contact her or call 317.736.8186.