Categories
Special Events

6 Event Marketing Ideas to Elevate Your Brand

With so many distractions these days, finding creative ways to market your brand is difficult – but it can be easier with these 6 event marketing ideas.

Marketing an event, whether you are hosting it or participating in it, will require you to be creative. Of course, how creative you get may depend on your industry. Some are much larger and more competitive than others.

No matter what, though, if you are working to make your brand known, then you need some skills.

When it comes to event marketing ideas to elevate your brand, you are going to need to call in back up. Good thing – we’ve got you covered. Literally. (yes, that pun was intended). Here are 6 ideas to get your name out there.

 

1. Create Friends, Not Presentations

People get nervous when it comes to first-time business and networking interactions. After all, you have to be friendly, shake hands, and make that awkward small talk with strangers.

Do this over and over again throughout an event, the chances of anyone actually remembering someone is quite slim.

So, what can you do to make yourself – as the representative of your brand – known and remembered by everyone you come in contact with?

Make friends.

Be genuine, kind, and comfortable. Talk to the people you meet as if they were your new friend. Mention your brand and talk about it, but do so as if you were talking to a friend.

Don’t make it awkward. Don’t state memorized facts and numbers. And, by all means, don’t follow a script.

 

2. All About the Hashtags

In our world full of social media, hashtags are a must when marketing your event. When you have an event on the horizon, creating – and heavily using – a hashtag can increase your presence.

It is a great way to get your brand in the forefront of event-goers minds. And, well, anyone who stumbles upon the hashtag.

If you are privy to email lists, send out an email regarding the event and include the chosen hashtag to follow. Let your audience know that you will keep them up to date with what is happening before, during, and after the event.

When you market your event on your social media accounts, be sure to keep the posts engaging.

For instance, create reveals showing the event unfold. Or, continual pieces of something that they can try to guess what it is – that won’t be revealed until the event. Talk about giveaways and various contests, etc.

You get the idea.

 

3. Custom-Branded Event Tents

If you truly want to elevate the awareness of your brand, then you need to visibly make yourself known and your events. You need to be present with a heavy presence.

Luckily, you can do this with a custom-branded event tent.

An event tent is completely customizable. This means you can have your own logos, colors, hashtags, and so forth printed directly on the tent. It is one of the most memorable event marketing ideas to help people recognize your brand.

The more they see you at events, the sooner they will recognize you.

Invest in signage that will match the event tent with your catch-phrase, name, logo, and more. Place the signs in various formats throughout the event.

  • Host events.
  • Visit tradeshows.
  • Pop up your customized tent whenever and wherever seems logical.

Get yourself out there – and let your tent speak for you.

 

4. Announce a Giveaway – and Make It Known

People love free stuff. It is that simple. Whether you are giving away pens or tropical vacations, you will get interaction. But, how can you make a giveaway elevate your brand awareness?

Announce it and make it known.

Now, this is not going to work with something such as pens. It is going to require something bigger – something that will entice people and get them talking.

Here are a few ideas for event giveaways, but you’ve got an infinite amount of possibilities to choose from.

  • The latest iPad or MacBook.
  • Gift cards.
  • A weekend getaway.
  • Free expert advice with an extended, personalized consultation.
  • Something worthwhile relative to your industry.

For event marketing, choose something you think your event attendees would appreciate and desire. Otherwise, you may find that you are wasting time and effort.

Once you choose your idea, create a giveaway specific website. Get people talking about the giveaway and get them excited to attend and sign up.

 

5. Make Yourself Stand Out

Blending in with the crowd will never get you anywhere. You’ve got to make yourself stand out with your event marketing!

Wear goofy costumes or brightly-colored shirts with funny sayings.

Wear loud, stand-out hats.

Have yourself and your team take on the role of different characters in the most popular series, i.e. think Stranger Things.

When attendees run into you, they should be able to know who you are and who you are with. Don’t allow yourself to fit in with everyone else.

Be bold.

 

6. Go Big with a Small Crowd

Imagine, if you will, that you take your kids and all their friends to the water park outside of Disneyland.

They can see the castle. They can see everything around them is Disney-related. But, they will hang out with all their friends outside the parks.

Why?

Because you brought more people, your budget wouldn’t allow for you to go to the big parks. So, instead, you all will enjoy the little water park.

Now, what if you chose not to bring all those friends? What if you only took your kids? Your budget would allow you to take to Disneyland to have one of the most memorable vacations of their lifetime.

That is how you should make guests feel at events.

It is better to spend money to create a magnificent impression on a smaller crowd than to give a mediocre impression to a larger crowd.

People remember the things that you do for them. And, they remember how they were treated and the experiences they have. If you can take an event and make it personal and memorable, you will elevate your brand and you will create lasting followers.

Quality over quantity.

 

Utilizing Event Marketing Ideas to Succeed

Elevating your brand in today’s world can be tricky.

But, by using these event marketing ideas such as custom-branded event tents, giveaways, and hashtags, you can make yourself recognizable within the bigger picture.

And, that is what it is all about, isn’t it?

 

Categories
Event Industry

Standing Out at Conference Events Is Difficult. We’ve Got You Covered.

There are thousands of people and hundreds of brands at conference events, which means standing out among the crowd can be difficult. It doesn’t have to be with these five tips.

In a crowd of a thousand, you want to be that one that stands out and gets noticed. Of course – who doesn’t?

Especially when you are trying to promote your product or service. But you don’t have to find yourself lost and lonely.

Believe it or not, there are things that you can do to help yourself stand out and be noticed when you are at conference events with many others just like you.

All you need to do is learn these tricks and you’ll be pulling ahead of the crowd in no time.

 

1. Location Is More Important Than You Think

You may think that as long as you have the best product (or service) or you have the booth with the boldest statement that you don’t have to worry about where you are located at conference events.

In fact, you may even think that having a booth in the far back corner may serve you just fine as long as you have everything else in line.

Perhaps you’d like to think again.

The location of your booth at a conference is much more important than you’d think. Those companies seeking to gain the most exposure are often found at corner tables or on islands – away from any neighbors. Let’s explain.

You can’t physically make anyone visit your booth. And, while sometimes making a bold statement with your booth can actually draw a crowd, it is not always a guarantee.

Having a booth where people will often walk by on their own – such as on a corner – means that you have a higher chance of getting noticed.

Those who choose to go with a booth on an island gain the benefit of not being surrounded by others in close proximity. And, since the eyes have to focus somewhere – they can focus on these islands, uninterrupted.

 

2. Be Visual

We’ve talked about bold statements with your booth. And, while it may not be the say all when it comes to exposure, it surely does help – especially when combined with a great location.

What do you think about when you visually see conference events? Likely, booth after booth after booth. Some may have signs and others may have logo tablecloths, but what happens when all of them get pushed together?

They easily get overlooked.

If you are wanting to be visibly noticed at your next event, consider getting a tent. This customizable, branded signage can have your name, logo, company colors, quotes, and more.

However you can transform the tent into something that will let everyone notice you, that is what you do. Stand out from the crowd.

And, yes, even using your tent for an indoor event works, too. So, don’t hesitate to do so.

 

 

3. Take Hold of the Power of Social Media

Social media provides a great way for you to get your name out there – and interact – with those in attendance at an event. With the use of special pages and hashtags, you can easily get your company heard.

  • Know which events you will be attending and shout out to your followers before the event. Let them know you will be there and encourage them to join you there.
  • Entice those at an event to visit your booth. Offer prizes, giveaways, games, and more for them to enjoy.
  • Once the show is in full effect, keep interacting with your followers on social media. Engaging them and keeping them interested in the best way to spread the word about your company and what you offer – and how (and where) to find you.

Keep social media fun and interactive. And, of course, don’t forget to upload pics of your booth – and tent – onto social media.

The more recognizable you make your booth online, the easier it will be to spot you in person. And, if you have a great social media presence, that can be a great thing.

 

4. Choose Your Conference Events Wisely

Going to any and every event available in your niche (and those outside of it) can end up costing you a lot, both in time and money.

To get the best benefit from the conference events that you attend, be sure that you attend the right ones.

What does that mean for you?

It means you should let go of the smaller, community events that may or may not bring you a new client or two.

Instead, focus your time, skills, and presence on the attendance that will bring your company the forefront of potential buyers.

Think about it: You can attend your local town fair and have 5,000 people walk by your booth.

But, if none of those individuals have any interest in your service or product – and are in no way associated with your target audience – then you’ve just wasted your resources.

 

 

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Do Something Different

Most people strive to fit in. But it is the one who goes above and beyond to stand out that leaves a lasting impression.

If you are hoping to stand out for the attendees at your conference event, then you need to change up the way you do things. Don’t be like everyone else.

Invest in a tent and customize it. Make it speak for you.

That way, others can know where you are and who you are without you ever opening your mouth. Offer games and prizes. Serve snacks and drinks. Be loud, be goofy, play music, etc.

Whatever you can do to draw attention – in a positive way, of course – then do it.

Not only will the attendees find you, but they will be more likely to remember you, too.

 

Conclusion

Standing out at conference events is difficult. But, thanks to great ideas you will be covered and standing proud.

Get yourself noticed by choosing the best location, promoting yourself and the event on social media, and choosing to attend the right event.

Then, add a customized tent so you can be easily spotted by everyone who is looking for you.

Categories
Special Events

Why Do You Need Event Signage to Promote Business?

Regardless of your industry, promoting your business is necessary, and it just got much easier with event signage tents.

Are you getting ready to launch a new product or service? Or, are you trying to boost your current brand in an attempt to gain exposure?

Your reason for promoting your business does not matter as much as how you promote it.

You could…

  • Start an online campaign targeting consumers with your brand.
  • Hire a human billboard and sign spinner directing potential buyers to your location.
  • Bombard social media with a heavy presence, engaging potential buyers.
  • Offer promotions and exclusive deals online or in your store (if you have one).
  • Share testimonials and customer reviews.

All of these are ideas of things you could do to promote your business. But perhaps one of the best ways of getting your brand out there is by either hosting or attending an event.

In other words, put your product or service in the middle of a huge audience.

 

What Is Event Signage?

Event signage can be any type of sign that you use to gain attention while at an event.

Believe it or not, they come in many different forms.

For example, you could create signage such as:

  • Banners
  • Balloons
  • Posters
  • Flags
  • Tents

These items are designed with your company’s information, such as logo, name, social media links, and so forth.

It should be created in a way that it grabs the attention of consumers and tells them about your business – all in less than a few seconds.

 

Why Is It So Important?

Having your business be present at an event serves little purpose unless you make yourself known.

As is the case with most events, you don’t have very long to grab the attention of the consumers.

By creating event signage that is snazzy and eye-catching, you can draw the people to you.

Take a moment to think about the last event you were at. If it is was a typical event, then there was probably a lot of people and an overwhelming number of things to see.

This is the exact reason promotional business signage is so important.

In a sea of fish, be a shark.

 

 

Event Signage Locations – Where You Need to Be Exposed

Your signage doesn’t only have to be used just once each year at your industry’s annual conference. Instead, you can utilize it in many different settings.

  • Various industry events and conferences.
  • Local community events, such as festivals, green markets, and so forth.
  • Setting up outside your brick and mortar location when offering promotions or incentives.
  • Nearby school fundraisers, carnivals, and such.

The idea is that signage is vital to drawing in customers. And, it is versatile enough to be used in a variety of locations, creating a multitude of benefits for you and your business.

Don’t limit yourself on yourself – take full advantage of any event signage you choose to develop.

 

Popular Types of Signage Available

Imaginations can come up with some incredible ideas. For those seeking to promote a business, the ideas that are brainstormed for promotional signage can get a bit creative and even bizarre.

By now, you should have a good idea of who your ideal customer is and how to reach him (or her).

There is a very good chance that you have an idea about what types of event signage will entice your customer to seek you out and the types that wouldn’t get a second look.

1. Banners

 These can be hung at your booth, up high or low. They can be hung up or displayed, providing consumers with all the information they need to know.

2. Inflatables

Inflatables work wonderfully for products and services geared toward families with children. A large, inflated means of fun and excitement will have kids dragging parents across the event.

3. Walking billboards and sign spinners

These are also a great way to drive traffic to your booth. This is especially helpful if you find you have been assigned a less-than-ideal space. Grab the attention of those at the event with your sign spinner – then direct them to your booth for more info, to sign up for promotions, and so forth.

4. Digital signage

It can be ever-changing and is likely to stand out. However, keep in mind that this type of signage requires electrical outlet access and may not work so well outdoors during the day or in inclement weather.

5. Customized tents:

Customized tents may just be the ultimate form of event signage. They work for any type of service or product. You can create your tent to reflect all of your business information. Tents are a sort of one-stop-shop for promotional signage.

 

 

Create Your Own Event Signage with a Customized Tent

At just about any event, it is common to have a tent – especially if outdoors.

Tent rentals provide a designated space for your business, safety from inclement weather for you and your products, as well as a place created to entice potential customers to stay awhile.

But, did you know that tents can be customized and become your own event signage?

It’s true!

Imagine having something on your side at events that provides you so many benefits.

Benefits of Tents as Promotional Signage

Customizations for event tents can include:

  • Specific colors
  • Logo and name printing
  • Any information you deem necessary

This allows you to set up shop without having to worry about hanging banners or damaging posters. It’s all right there on your tent.

Plus, in an event that is full of tents – many the plain white version – your tent will be able to be spotted from afar.

So, not only can you attract customers, but you can also be spotted by return customers, too.

What a giant win for your business.

 

Conclusion

It does not matter what type of business you have it will not take you far if consumers don’t know about it.

Therefore, promoting your product or service is so important. And, of course, signage can be a great asset.

Before you start planning your next event, spend time developing your event signage – and creating your customized tent rental.

 

Categories
Special Events

5 Reasons Corporate Events are More Fun in Tents

Corporate events are a fact of life for many companies, so why not make your next company event as fun and interactive as possible?

Corporate events can bring on a mixture of emotions for employees.

For many, the social aspect of them can be fun, but the mere requirement of having to attend – and participate – can be daunting.

So, what if you held a corporate event that was actually fun? And what if your employees wanted to attend?

 

How To Make Corporate Events More Fun With a Tent

Creating high attendance at corporate events – willingly – can increase your company’s morale and your overall production efficiency.

And, for these reasons alone, you need to host your company event in a tent.

Why?

Because corporate events are more fun in tents.

Don’t believe us?

Try it!  

 

1. More Space, Less Stuffy

Have you ever gone to an event at a bland old banquet hall?

If you have, then you know how plain and boring the surroundings can be.

And, if you have ever had to spend many hours (such as for a corporate event), then you know that the walls around you can seem to gradually be closing in on you in the sense of suffocation.

Don’t put that awful feeling on your employees.

Instead, choose to have more space.

All you need is a tent.

This will provide you a wide open space (with no interior barriers) to set up how you desire while also allowing room for your attendees to mingle.

Plus, because it is a tent, you can open the side walls (or choose to have none at all) so that the walls aren’t smothering those present. Say goodbye to stuffiness.

Tents can be customized to meet your needs.

No matter how large or small your corporate event is, you will find a tent that will provide an ample amount of space for your needs.

 

 

2. Get out of the Office

Your employees spend hour after hour, day after day sitting in the office.

And, you may very well have your own conference room and space in the building to hold your next corporate event.

But what about allowing your employees to have a break from the confines of the company building – and enjoy some fresh air.

Getting outdoors can be very beneficial and uplifting.

If you are looking to gain a positive outcome from the event, then you may want to start with the location.

A tent can provide you a beautiful and welcoming space to host corporate events.

It can give your employees a chance to:

 

3. Increase Your Potential for Fun

There are only so many things that you can do while indoors. This is especially true when it comes to things such as team building activities, ice breaker activities, and such.

Imagine being able to allow your employees to let loose and engage in activities that are going to stimulate creativity and the blood flow through the body.

Just like kids, adults can benefit from moving around and burning off excess energy.

Choosing to hold your corporate event in a tent allows you space and atmosphere to do so much more than you could indoors.

  • Get your employees outdoors and moving
  • Play those games you could never play indoors
  • Even a company game of softball can do wonders for the bond of those involved

You may be surprised at how many people truly will enjoy a corporate event like this. It will be evidenced by the smiles and laughter.

 

4. Relaxed Atmosphere

Isn’t the point of corporate events to bring people together?

That is a fairly tough task when you have so many people in formal work attire and trying to pretend that they want to be at your event.

Choosing a tent and inviting your employees to a corporate event that boasts a relaxed atmosphere is likely to spark more positive attention than the alternative.

While they still may not be overjoyed about attending a company event, they will come with much less dread than having to sit for hours in a formal banquet hall.

Take the formality out of the event and bring everyone together in ways they have never been.

Play games have a barbecue, let your hair down – and they will too.

This is something that can only be done with the use of a tent and an outdoor venue.

 

 

5. Creative and Fun Vibes

Do you know that bright, floral, loud carpet that dons banquet halls everywhere? What about those pale walls and blah décor?

Don’t do it.

If you want your corporate event to be enjoyed by all of those who attend, then you are going to need to create a space that speaks to them.

You want a place where your attendees can automatically know that this is unlike any formal corporate event they have ever experienced and that it is ok to let their guard down and have fun.

Tents have a wide open, blank space for you to decorate. This means that you have the power to set the vibe for the whole event.

Choose colors and décor that will lead you in the direction you want to go. For example:

  • Red is known to grab attention. It dominates passion and demands action. It gets the blood moving.
  • Yellow is mostly used for cheerfulness and warmth. It grabs attention in a positive, jolly way.
  • Orange is exciting and bright. It combines the above two, leading to action and cheerfulness.
  • Green is what you want for a fresh vibe. It leads to focus on the environment, health, vitality, and life.
  • Blue is the go-to for dignity and loyalty. It’s the perfect color for a cool, calming, relaxed environment.
  • Purple is a spiritual color. It can awaken the senses, bring relaxation, along with passion and action.

With a blank canvas, the decorating choice is yours to set the vibe how you desire. What colors will you choose?

 

Conclusion

Hosting your corporate events in a tent means that you have the ability to provide your employees with more fun, relaxation, and enjoyment.

Reduce your costs, increase the space, reduce the formality, and breathe in the fresh air – and watch your teams grow together.

Categories
Event Industry

How to Have the Best Trade Show Display Tent

Creating the best trade show display tent will gain the attention of customers and help to make your trade show more successful. Use this guide to help.

Trade shows can be busy, chaotic times, but they can also be the perfect opportunity to get your name – and your product or service – out to many people in a relatively short period of time.

Because trade shows draw such a crowd of vendors or attendees, you may be wondering how in the world someone is going to remember you over everyone else.

This is where you have to get creative and make yourself known.

How do you to that?

It starts with the first thing potential buyers will see – your trade show display tent.

 

It’s All About the Color

Imagine, if you will, going to pick out your new car. When you arrive in the lot, all you see is a sea of white and grey cars.

But then, off in the distance, is a bright and shiny red car.

Would you opt for one of the regular cars that look like the next one? Or, would you begin making your way through all the boring cars to the eye-catching red one?

That’s what we thought. Red is not the only eye-catching color, though.

Here are the most popular colors for those looking to make the sale:

  • Red is a color of power. Just like in the example above, it demands attention. It can catch an eye from across the room and holds it, just like the red car.
  • Blue is cool and calming. It can give a feeling of trustworthiness and loyalty. Whether it is the use of the color blue or blue lighting, this color can be a very inviting choice.
  • Green is a mixture of being a money color and being clean and sleek. Its association with the environment can give a boost to the reputation of your company.
  • Orange is the color of energy. Its powerful enough to get people pumped and ready to jump on whatever it is you are selling.

Choose the color for your trades how display tent that will be suit your needs – and your intentions for the show.

Have your trade show display tent customized with your chosen color and your logo or brand. Remember, you are just like all of those around you – so make yourself stand out.

 

Create the Perfect Environment

You’ve got yourself a trade show display tent for your trade show space, now you need to create the perfect environment underneath it.

1. First and foremost, you want to keep a clean space. The last thing you want is to crowd your potential buyers in a cluttered, disorganized tent. This is a very big turnoff that will leave you without the sale.

Keep your space organized and neat, allowing people to move freely in your trade show space.

2. Next, you are going to be exhausted after manning your booth. Imagine the potential buyers who have been walking and walking through aisle after aisle and tent after tent. They are going to be tired, too.

So, why not offer them what they are looking for?

A place to sit down.

And, we aren’t just referring to some metal folding chairs. Provide your guests with a comfortable lounge to kick back and learn about all you have to offer. Informally, of course.

In other words, invite the attendees to stop by your booth, sit down, relax, and chat with them. It’s a great way to get them to stay awhile as they learn about your company – and you learn about their needs.

3. Lastly, keep the lighting under the trade show display tent inviting. Depending on the venue, the lighting can be too bright – or not enough.

Provide your patrons with the perfect amount of bright LED lighting to showcase your booth and all you have to offer within it, but not too bright that they will feel as though sunglasses should be provided.

 

 

Make Your Trade Show Display Tent Interactive

It’s likely very believable that more people will tend to remember your trade show booth if they spent some time there engaging in something interactive, rather than simply walking by and grabbing a free pen.

Interactive booths will grab – and hold – attention. Here are a few ideas:

  • Host a giveaway (this is a great way to pick up leads, too).
  • Host a game show or contest.
  • Use iPads for quizzes or to gather information.
  • Provide a hands-on example or experience that fits your product or service.
  • Give out samples of whatever you are selling – or something that relates to it.

Remember, you want to entice attendees to spend some time with you so that you may reach out and either get a sale, gather information, or plant a seed in their head.

 

Give Away Freebies at Your Tent

Who doesn’t like freebies? Everyone likes them. At trade shows, many people are found walking around with bags full of free koozies, pens, t-shirts, hats, cell phone cases, and more.

Anything that can be branded and given away will work.

Attendees love getting this loot. But, what can you give away that will set you apart from the next booth?

Things such as:

  • Samples of what you are selling.
  • Chocolates or other sweets.
  • Travel alarm clock
  • Backup cell phone charger (or provide a charging station at your booth!)

Playing into what your company sells or stands for can be fun, too. For example, if you want to emphasize that you are an environmentally-friendly company, provide a reusable, recycled coffee cup.

If you want to show that you support the potential client and will make their job easier, provide a free 5-minute chair massage. Get the idea?

 

Take It Social

Finally, take it social. Prior to the trade show, set up your display booth and take some pictures. Then, begin a campaign on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn– or whatever platform is most relevant to your business.

Post pictures, give insights as to freebies or contests and persuade those coming to make their way to your booth.

By giving them a visual, they will be able to spot you when the time comes.

 

Conclusion

Trade shows can be the perfect time to fulfill your leads list, but they start with an amazing trade show display tent.

So, be prepared, stand out, and make the best use of your tent space. You never know who you’ll meet.

Categories
Special Events

Why Are Tents Perfect for a Company Holiday Party?

A company holiday party is an excellent way to build teamwork and boost morale throughout the office. But planning one isn’t always easy. Luckily, clear span tents can help ease the stress of planning.

It is that time of year again. The infamous company holiday party.

You know, the one where the entire office may be placing bets to see if Joe in Accounting will drink too much this year or if Betty from Communications will perform her sour tradition of Santa Baby karaoke-style.

Company holiday parties can be a fun time to socialize with your co-workers outside of the formal workplace.

You can let your guard down (for the most part) and have a jolly good time. And, perhaps make memories that will still be talked about at next year’s holiday party.

But just as it matters who attends the party, it also matters where you have the party.

Believe it or not, tents provide the perfect location for any company holiday party. Here’s why.

 

1. Have the Company Holiday Party Anywhere

When planning a company holiday party, you want to make it convenient.

Face it, this is perhaps the busiest time of year.

The last thing anyone is going to want to do is to drive to an unknown location to attend a holiday party with people from work.

Instead, having your party somewhere convenient can make things much smoother for everyone involved.

With a tent, you can just about have your party anywhere – including in your company’s parking lot. You cannot get much more convenient than that.

Clearspan tents don’t require any special ground for setting up.

They can be constructed on

  • Sand
  • Grass
  • Dirt
  • Concrete

So, stop the search for the perfect indoor venue that may meet your needs and instead find a place that will work best for all of your employees and go for it.

 

2. Accommodate Both Employees and Guests

Depending on how large your company is, you may find it difficult to find a venue that is large enough to encompass all of your employees – not even including spouses, family, or other guests.

When you decide to rent a tent, however, you will find that this is not an issue at all.

In fact, you could allow your employees to come alone or bring their entire families.

Why?

Because tents can be customized to meet your exact sizing needs.

A tent can reduce the embarrassment of having to tell your employees they cannot bring a guest.

And, it reduces the stress of trying to search for the venue that is the right size.

 

 

3. Saving Money on Venues = More Money for Important Things.

Have you ever paid attention to the rental fees associated with hosting a party at a specific venue?

These fees can be very high. And, unfortunately, many venue rentals require you to either use their catering services or use those from a designated list.

Doing so can reduce your ability to shop around for the best price to meet your needs.

Choosing to rent a tent means that you don’t have to worry about catering venues.

You have a lot more freedom when it comes to your party, which means you can put your money in things you want and not those you don’t.

After renting your tent, you can take a look at your budget and discover the great savings.

Then, utilize those extra funds for more important things, such as prizes or gifts for employees, or even a special entertainer.

 

4. Tents Give You Privacy

Privacy is more important for some companies than others. But, no matter how private and secure your company is, having some privacy for your company party is often welcomed.

Many party rental venues you have to choose from are located in busy convention centers, hotels, etc.

This easily blasts your company’s holiday party to anyone who passes by.

However, when you rent a tent – and have it erected at a location of your choosing – you are provided a confidential party space.

Think about this – you are less likely to have a stranger make their way into your company parking lot and into your party than you are to have your party in a resort’s banquet hall during the holidays.

 

5. Design the Layout However You Want

Clearspan tents offer you a wide-open space to design for the holiday party. There are no walls or poles to get in the way.

So, your space can be transformed into many areas:

  • A dining area
  • A dance floor
  • An entertainment area
  • A lounging area

Just as every party will vary, so will every space’s design. With a banquet hall, your design abilities are limited. But, with a tent rental, you will find they are limitless.

It is important to note that you can rent your tent customized in ways that make your job much easier. These include options such as:

  • Sidewalls
  • Floorings, such as wood or carpet
  • Elegant entryways
  • Clear or fabric panels
  • Lighting
  • Generator
  • HVAC climate control system to keep your guests cool or warm, depending on your needs

 

 

6. Make Set Up and Clean Up a Breeze

Renting a tent means that you will have a crew come to construct – and deconstruct – the tent for your party.

This makes it simple for you.

There is no need to have to figure it out yourself – or find someone to do it for you.

Furthermore, have you ever considered the cost of having spills or other damage to a rented venue?

If you have some rowdy employees, then you may want to consider the benefits of having a party outdoors.

 

Conclusion

Your employees deserve a holiday party.

By creating a budget and making some smart decisions, you can pull it off.

Find a location that is both convenient for your employees and that will allow them to bring their significant other.

Then, rent a tent that will accommodate everyone.

Overall, this choice should allow you to use some extra funds to do something special for those who work so hard for you all year long.

Now that you know why you should rent a tent for your company holiday party – what are you waiting for?

Categories
Event Industry

5 Trade Show Planning Techniques to Be Successful

When it comes to designing and implementing a successful trade show, there are many details that need to be addressed. Business events are no small feat and require particular trade show planning and management techniques to be successful.

From every angle, specific steps need to be taken to ensure the overall success of the event.

 

Why is trade show planning and management important?

Take a moment to consider all the trade show planning that is necessary for a successful event.

First, you must decide on a location/venue. Then, you must design the layout and theme of the show. Enticing vendors to partake in your trade show is another very important aspect. And then, of course, getting the right people to attend.

If one part of this equation is off, it could ruin the entire event.

With a trade show or convention looming in the near future and victory in mind, let’s look at the key points and techniques that you will need to find success.

 

1. Choose a convenient location

If you want anyone to attend your trade show, you are going to need a convenient location. This is the first step in trade show planning.

Face it – no one wants to drive out of their way to a location that is going to be either difficult to access or less than ideal for the event.

So, what does that mean? It means that you better be selective when it comes to your event location.

The best piece of advice you will get will be to utilize a temporary event tent structure. These are able to be used at any location – whether you choose grassy ground, dirt, or a vacant parking lot. You select a location that will:

  • Be easily accessible by vendors and attendees.
  • Have ample amount of space to accommodate all in attendance.
  • Provide easy loading and unloading for vendors, caterers, etc.
  • Make parking a breeze.

Benefits of a Tented Space

Once you find a space that allows all of this, then you go to work on your tent. Your tent rental has a ton of options and can be customized to meet the exact needs of your trade show.

In fact, temporary structures offer accessories:

  • Sidewalls to enclose the structure.
  • HVAC climate control to keep the space as cool or warm as you need.
  • Sizing to fit your needs, large or small depending on the size of the event.
  • Clear paneling, elaborate doors, and spectacular flooring.
  • A wide-open space to design a customized layout just for your trade show.

Tent rentals can have all of the conveniences of an indoor space while providing you with a space to design your ideal layout. You get to choose to location and the layout and design – sounds like a win-win, doesn’t it?

 

 

2. Design the layout with adequate space

A successful trade show is not going to have a vendor on top of vendor and no room for guests to navigate. If you want to make sure you do not get return vendors or guests, then go ahead and cram it together.

However, since you are here, you are looking for a successful trade show planning tips, so you will want to design the layout of your venue while keeping adequate space in mind.

Your vendors should be able to set up their booths without feeling like they are sharing space with the person next to them. Your guests should be able to roam easily and freely – and should be able to access any booth along the way without too much clutter or congestion.

 

 

3. Solicit vendors and sponsors

Successful trade show planning also includes finding vendors. After all, if you don’t have many vendors, who will want to attend?

Filling up your space with vendors can entice industry insiders to want to come. The more vendors, the more opportunities. And, the more opportunities, the more attendees.

Solicit those who may be interested and provide them with info about the trade show, a layout of the event, and vendor registration info. Be nice and let them choose their own booth location.

Sponsors can help to greatly reduce the costs associated with hosting a trade show. By donating money to your event, they can have their name displayed on a banner or other material throughout the event.

It is a small price to pay and it benefits both parties. Don’t disregard this money-making tool.

 

4. Determine the entertainment and pick a caterer

Trade shows are a space where those in the industry can come together and learn, network, and everything in between. But, it should also provide a time and space for mingling.

Consider booking some sort of entertainment, such as a band, a speaker, a DJ, etc. and promote it as you promote your trade show. This can give the attendees a heads up that there will be a little bit of party mixed in with a little bit of work.

As for food – feed your guests. Hire one or more caterers to provide drinks and bite-sized foods to munch on. Keep it easy and simple – without too much fuss and too much cleanup. It is not at all common for trade shows to offer plated meals, but the entry ticket should include some sort of concessions.

You will also want to make note of this, too, on your advertising material.

 

 

5. Allow yourself plenty of time

Lastly, you will want to make sure you allow yourself plenty of time. This may be the most important planning tip we can give you.

Organizing and executing a successful trade show is a lot of work. And, it involves a ton of planning. Just to give you an idea of timing, it is common practice to begin trade show planning at least a year in advance.

This gives you ample time to secure the location, solicit vendors and sponsors, schedule entertainment, and have materials printed and ready to go.

 

Conclusion

Trade show planning is essential; it means that you are quite a facilitator. You are not just that person who is putting an event together. Your job is bigger than that. You are bringing buyers and sellers, innovators and manufacturers together. In fact, you will bring together insiders who can transform the industry.

Don’t take the role of trade show management lightly. It is never too early to start preparing.

Categories
Special Events

How to Plan a Company Picnic to Show Employees Appreciation

Showing employees appreciation is essential for morale and productivity. Now you can show them just how much they mean to you by planning a company picnic!

You were just put in charge of organizing and planning the company picnic. Except, it isn’t just any ordinary picnic. It is the best company picnic. And it is for all the employees and their families, too.

While you are excited about the challenge, the idea of putting the picnic together seems daunting.

You want to do things right and be sure not to disappoint. And you need to make a lasting impression for all involved. But, where do you even start?

How do you create a successful company picnic for such a large crowd?

It’s simpler than you think – as long as you follow these tips.

 

Plan for the weather

Any time you hold an outdoor event, you have to take the weather into consideration. Of all the things you do have control over, the weather will never be one of them. So, you’ll just have to stay one step ahead.

When it comes to planning a picnic, holding it indoors is an illogical solution. Instead, you will hold your picnic outdoors, but you will bring the protection of the indoor with you.

How do you do this? With a tent rental.

Tents are strong enough to remain standing in inclement weather. They are also able to accommodate any crowd. So, to save your picnic from any chance of Mother Nature’s fury, rent a tent and incorporate it with your outdoor event.

Besides, everyone loves a cool, shaded place to relax outdoors. Your employees are sure to be thankful.

 

 

Timing is everything for your invites

If you are planning a picnic for your employees, then you surely want people to attend. Otherwise, what would be the point? When determining what day – and time – you will schedule it, take things into consideration such as:

  • Work hours
  • Scheduled vacations
  • Holidays

And, while you are at it, you better determine whether you are hosting the event just for employees. Or, if you are inviting employees and their family members, as well as kids. Or if you prefer no kids, etc.

These are important details to consider and can ultimately impact when you have your picnic.

 

The venue can make or break your company picnic

Company picnics are usually put together as a way of showing appreciation. That means the venue you choose should be fun and vibrant – and in an easily accessible area. Don’t make your employees go out of their way to make it there.

The best part of choosing an outdoor venue with a tent rental is the fact that tents can be erected anywhere. They don’t have to be on the soft ground, either. So, whether you choose a local park, a nearby vacant lot, a spot along the water, or an empty parking lot, your tent can go up and your picnic can kickoff.

Don’t limit your options by choosing any other way.

 

Go for a themed-event

You could just host a regular ol’ company picnic. Or, you could host the company picnic. It’s the big one. The one that will be talked about for years to come. And why? Because it had a theme to make it fun and memorable.

Some ideas of themes are:

  • Fiesta
  • Around the world
  • Carnival
  • Tailgate
  • Circus
  • Luau
  • Casino
  • A day at the beach
  • Safari or zoo
  • Wild, wild west

Choose what fits your group. And make sure your picnic décor and, if possible, the entertainment matches the theme, too. This will help keep it uniform.

Themes also help to let your employees let loose. I mean, they work day in and day out for your company, they deserve a little fun and relaxation!

Imagine overhearing employees- years from now – saying, “Oh, do you remember that picnic when Fred in Accounting dressed up like Elvis?” or “We had a picnic one year and we all dressed up like pieces of pizza. Marla from Marketing was our one and only breadstick.”

Now, you’re thinking.

 

Must haves: food and fun

You always want to have food and fun at your picnic. After all, that is generally why most people attend them.

When it comes to food selection, you can stick to the plain old picnic food of hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, and various lukewarm salads. Or, you can opt for food from your theme.

For instance, have a fiesta theme and create a taco bar. Another idea would be to have a carnival theme and contact local food trucks to come.

Use your imagination and keep the event uniform.

As for fun, picnics are going to be full of outdoor activities. You could choose to play the common games, such as horseshoes, cornhole, or flag football. Or, you could opt for scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, and various teambuilding fun.

 

 

Don’t forget about the kids

Last, but not least, whatever you do – do not forget about the kids.

If you’ve told your employees that they can bring their children, then you better be prepared for them to do so. And, those kids are going to want something to do.

Most of the time at family events, without something set aside for the kids, you will find them attached to the parents. The idea behind the picnic is for everyone to mingle. And, while everyone loves their children, it is difficult to carry on a conversation with bored little ones all around.

Kids don’t require elaborate entertainment. So here are a few things you could so the kids can enjoy themselves, too.

  • Choose to hold your event in a location with a playground.
  • Rent a bounce house.
  • Put together easy relay races for parents and kids alike.
  • Offer a kids’ game, hangout, or entertainment area. Create a space that is just for kids. Provide outdoor messy things such as silly string, a homemade slime station, a finger-painting area, and so on.

Remember, though, that a company picnic for the family is as much for the kids as it is for the rest of the family. So, don’t try to exclude the children too much.

 

Conclusion

Planning a company picnic is beyond worth it to show your employees your appreciation, let them mingle and relax outside of work, and treat them to a special day.

Now, you have the blueprints for the best picnic in your company’s history. Plan for the weather, keep everyone full and entertained, and you will be planning next years picnic.

Enjoy!

Categories
Event Industry

How to Plan the Best Summer Corporate Event

Your summer can lead to many vacations, backyard barbecues, fun with the kids. It is also the perfect time to plan a summer corporate event. Why, you ask? Because it is an opportunity to throw out the suits and business casual attire and have some summer fun networking with colleagues and others in your industry in a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere.

 

Why should you host a summer corporate event?

Corporate events are essential in the business world.

It gives your business the opportunity to showcase your talents, as well as the ability to network and expand.

Not to mention, it improves employee morale.

Sure, you could keep everyone locked indoors and host a formal corporate event in some nearby hotel or banquet space. But, it is summer – who wants all that?

If you are ready to have some fun and host the perfect summer corporate event, then here is what you’ll need.

 

The perfect location

The location you choose for your summer corporate event is as important as the event itself. After all, if your chosen space is in an inconvenient location, is less than ideal, or leaves your guests with every complaint in the book – then your event is a flop.

You could plan the best food and entertainment, but if your location doesn’t work, then the rest won’t matter.

Put some time into planning your event.

Doing so will ensure that it will kick off in the right direction. Since it is a summertime event, you should consider hosting your event outdoors.

Of course, you will want to also have some protection to keep your guests comfortable.

Your perfect location?

An outdoor venue with a temporary tent rental for shade and protection from any inclement weather. Tent rentals can be erected in all sorts of places – you company parking lot, a backyard, a nearby park, or even a vacant lot. Just be sure to get any necessary permission or permits in advance.

 

 

The perfect time and date

After you know where the corporate event will be held, it is time that you determine when.

It is very important that you save yourself enough time to give your future guests a notice of least six weeks.

Summertime usually involves a lot of traveling and various activities since kids are out of school. So, planning a summer  corporate event during this time-frame needs to allow for scheduling.

Here are a few tips for selecting the perfect day:

  • If your event is strictly for your employees, you may want to consider doing a survey with some possible available dates to see the biggest response.
  • Another idea would be to allow the entire family to attend so kids can join, too.
  • Determine what you intend to do at the event and decide what time of day would work best. Consider the activities as well as whether it should occur during a meal time, etc.

The more thought you put into planning the time and date of the event, the more likely you are to have a good turnout.

 

The perfect activities and entertainment

What do you have in mind for keeping your guests occupied at your summer corporate event? Because, well, they are going to need to be occupied. Hosting an event with no structure, activities, or entertainment can cause some social frustration among your guests.

Is your event for people in your industry? Do you intend to have vendor space available?

If so, perhaps you’d like to invite a well-known individual within your industry’s community to speak. Also, provide your guests with a great layout to maneuver through the vendors.

A social networking and mingling area will also be important.

If your event is for your company, perhaps an annual summertime bash, then make it fun.

Since you chose an outdoor venue, you are able to enjoy so much outdoor fun. For example, consider:

  • water fun with sprinklers and splash pools
  • scrimmages of football, soccer, or baseball
  • sack races, egg race, or any other type of races
  • consider various relays or group scavenger hunts, too.

This is a great opportunity to work on teambuilding with your employees.

 

 

The perfect food and beverage

Depending on the time of day you are hosting your event, you will likely want food available at your summer event.

Since it is an outdoor venue, perhaps you can stick with the informal, laid-back feel and ditch the formal, plated meals. Instead, opt for some barbecue goodness.

Barbecues do not mean that you have to only offer your guests hamburgers and hotdogs. You can make it more elaborate by serving steaks, chicken, kielbasa, etc. And, grill veggies, fruits, and all sorts of things on your grill.

Don’t forget all the good sides, too.

As for beverages, you will want to determine if you want to serve alcohol or not at your summer corporate event.

Either way, you can make a unique beverage just for the event. Give it a name that means something to your employees or your industry – and make it pretty.

It will be sure to be a hit.

Top off this part of your planning with a frosty dessert.

Its summertime – and you and your guests are outdoors. Provide ice cold treats, such as Sno-Cones, popsicles, or ice cream, to keep your guests cool and happy.

 

The perfect day

Planning and hosting a summer corporate event can feel tough and challenging. But, creating the perfect day is possible.

Sometimes it is remembering the little things that can take an event from fun to the best ever. You want it memorable, right?

Make it so by incorporating these:

  • Sunscreen or suntan lotion.
  • Sunglasse.
  • Flip flops.
  • Insect repellant.
  • Hats or visors.
  • Music.
  • Lip balm.
  • First aid kits.

You never know what your guests may forget – and keeping them comfortable and happy is key. These items should not put too big of a dent in your budget and the will be worth every penny.

It doesn’t take much to create the perfect summer corporate event.

You will need to plan and do a little research to discover the best date for the function.

Then decide what you will do while there – and what you will provide for your guests, as far as food, drinks, treats, and amenities.

Get everyone outside to enjoy the sunshine and mingle with like-minded people in a laid back, comfortable atmosphere.

Now that sounds perfect.

Categories
Event Industry

5 Easy Ways to Make Corporate Event Planning Successful

You may be a great party planner. In fact, you may be the socialite that your friends and family turn to for advice when they are trying to be the best host or hostess. But, when it comes to corporate event planning, you may find that it is a whole different experience. After all, not only is your reputation on the line with your colleagues and superiors, but the company’s reputation – and, potentially – your livelihood is on the line, as well.

You need your corporate event to be perfect and free of any kinks or mishaps. So, it is important that you don’t assume you know everything about corporate event planning. However, if you approach this task with good time-management, much dedication, and careful attention to detail, you are sure to impress everyone in attendance.

To help you out, we’ve put together some of the biggest factors you will want to take into consideration when planning your corporate event.

 

Pay attention to the budget

When it comes to corporate event planning, you are likely given a budget that you must stick to. As the organizer, you will have to determine how to best allocate the funds so that the entire event can be planned – without leaving any details untouched. This is tough to do for many people.

To make sure you stick to a budget, create it before you start formally planning. Call around to vendors to get a quote. Determine any entertainment, speakers, catering, etc. that you will offer and obtain quotes for that, as well.

Other costs to consider:

  • Venue fees.
  • Rental fees, such as those for tables, chairs, tents, etc.
  • Marketing fees, including advertisements and signage.
  • Goodie bags or various promotional items for guests.
  • Decorations.

You never know when something else may pop up that you either forgot or were misquoted. Therefore, it is important that you add a bit of cushion to each quote you receive. That way, should your event flow smoothly, you will have a little left over in your budget to use for extra perks. Or, if you run into an emergency with your corporate event planning, you will have some money left to fall back on.

 

Find the perfect location and timing

When you start corporate event planning, know that location and timing are nearly as important as the event itself. After all, if the location isn’t convenient or the timing falls during a terribly busy time period, you are likely going to have very few attendees.

When determining the location of your event, you will want to first determine how many guests you expect to attend. That way you can rule out venues that don’t coincide with your needs.

You may also want to consider renting a tent for the event. Because they are incredibly versatile in any weather conditions, this will open your options for finding the best location. Clearspan temporary structures can be erected on all types of ground – which means you can hold your event in a park, a nearby vacant lot, or your own office parking lot.

The best part is that it will allow you choose the perfect size covered space for your guests.

Take a good look at the calendar and ask around – avoid planning your corporate event around any big holidays, popular vacation times, or busy corporate deadlines. The more you avoid these times, the better your attendance.

 

 

Keep your space comfortable and functional

During corporate event planning, you want to create a space that is both comfortable and functional for the attendees. Very few people enjoy spending more time with work then they have to.

The least you can do is make them comfortable while they are there. However, you also want to make sure the space is functional for what you are trying to accomplish.

For example, if you are hosting the event for corporate employees to kick back and mingle with one another, then you are going to want to provide a space when interpersonal communication can take place.

Arrange seating so this can happen and keep any entertainment at a decent audible level. Or, if you are hosting a corporate event such as a trade show or the like, you may have to forego a bit of the comfort to allow for the perfect layout of vendor tables – designed to keep guests moving through the venue.

The idea is to make sure that your guests comfortable while you achieve the results you were looking for from the event. If you choose to rent a tent, you will find this step a bit easier. You can customize your tent exactly how you want it – even to include side walls, flooring, and climate control.

 

Don’t forget the marketing for the event

If you don’t market your event, you will find that your attendance will be low – or non-existent. So, when planning for your event, make sure you are planning for the marketing, too.

You may use a variety of platforms to get the word out about the event, such as email, TV or radio broadcasting, social media, U.S. postal mail, etc. And, the method you choose will greatly depend on your industry.

Have fun with this portion of planning. Don’t just send out one notice to your intended guests.

Instead, build interest over time using the outlet of your choice. And consider offering a giveaway or something to entice your hopeful guests.

The more you invest in marketing, the better chance you have of the turnout you are hoping for.

 

Stay on task during the corporate event planning phase

Corporate event planning can be time consuming and overwhelming. It is easy to start planning so early – then begin thinking you have so much time and push things off until another day.

Before you know it, you will find that you are panicked and stressed because you didn’t stick to your time-management deadlines.

Don’t leave anything to chance when it comes to corporate event planning.

Stay focused, follow your plan, and keep trucking forward. By doing so, you will create a corporate event that you – and everyone around you – will be proud of.

Exit mobile version