8 Things to Look at in a Prospective Venue

Whether you are looking at a venue for a large conference or small breakfast, there is crossover in details to pay attention to. Above and beyond that, there are key factors you and look for to leave a lasting impression on your clients and guests.

1. Location - While this may be obvious, think about how your guests will be arriving. Will it be an area that is easy for them to get to? If not, somewhere they will be willing to travel to? 

2. Furnishings - Depending on the type of event you are hosting, it may be important to think about why types of tables and chairs they have in-house. If they are something that will work for your event, it could be an additional line item in your budget to supplement. 

3. Food & Beverage - Finding somewhere that has food & beverage in-house is always the easiest method. You will not have to worry about setting up any f&b needs or worrying about another vendor. Additional items to consider are if the cuisine is good? (if that matters to you) And what their level of service is. 

4. Security - There are many levels to this, but it's important to know how they will monitor who is coming into your space and how it will be reserved for your group. If you need additional levels of security, inquiring about their in-house team and how you can work together is always a key factor. 

5. Sounds - Think about your type of event and how sound will affect it. Is it a quiet meeting where outside noise will be a disturbance? Or is it a lively cocktail reception that the silence of the venue will be a drag?

6. Storage - This is important from the guest experience and from yours. Is there a coat check where attendees can store their coats? Maybe they'll be coming with suitcases and need to store them somewhere. For you, having a space to store an extra event materials or work out of is also key to be aware of. 

7. Surrounding Spaces - A hot tip is to ask the venue if they book additional events at the venue. This could either apply to before/after your event or in the next room. It's good to know what may be also going on around your event and if that raises any concerns for your group.  

8. Booking Policy - Ideally this is something you know before you even go visit a space - but knowing how they charge and what their booking policy is an important piece. Some charge with a F&B minimum and others with a room rental (or sometimes both). Understanding this will help you have a grasp on the full budget of your event.