The events industry has been drastically affected by the current economic climate but there are still ways to host a great event that reflects your brand, by simply taking a closer look at how and where you allocate your budget.  Here’s Core’s top tips for hosting an unforgettable event without breaking the bank…

Events can make or break a companies’ reputation depending on the quality of what is delivered and cutting costs can be a dangerous false economy if it leads to a substandard event which appears careless and is badly executed. Quality and attention to detail are what make an event brilliant, but there are ways in which to reduce costs.  One quick and easy way is to consider the format. Whereas big awards ceremonies were once standard, today it is acceptable to scale down an event. By inviting fewer people to a shorter and therefore less costly lunch or breakfast event, costs can be drastically reduced but quality can be retained.

Events which show thought and careful consideration are the most memorable, and by going the extra mile and executing ideas that stand out from the crowd, you can be sure to leave guests with a positive impression of your business.  Extras such as place-cards, flowers, programmes and decorations  are what your guests will remember, so rather than culling them, consider sponsorship or exchanging them for services to cut costs.

Drinks can be costly, and it is fine to ask guests to pay for their own drinks rather than running up thousands of pounds in bar bills. If there is a reception, consider making it shorter and providing a drink upon arrival only.

There are however places where guests will notice that costs have been cut. Food should never be compromised, and rather than stretching to more and skimping on quality, instead maintain a high standard across fewer courses.

The venue is important for creating the right atmosphere and complementing your brand.  Choosing a cheaper but distant venue drastically reduces the number of guests who will be able to attend. Never cut back on a venue for this reason and make sure that it supports a high-quality sound system.  Stage production and sound are imperative and importantly memorable and poor quality sound will lead to guests ignoring the speeches, so don’t be tempted to use a cheaper alternative. However, using a local compere rather than a national celebrity can be a cost effective option as can celebrity doubles…

Ultimately, a successful event will pay for itself by presenting your company in a positive light and persuading attendees to work with you in future. The best way to make sure that an event is successful is by letting an experienced events team organise it for you and taking advantage of their expertise and creativity.  An experienced advisor will be able to tell you exactly what you should be paying and for what. In addition, they can negotiate costs on your behalf by drawing on their contacts. With an events team on hand to fill glasses and take coats, this will create a lasting wow factor and leave you with time to greet and network with your guests.