Reduce Corporate Event Costs – Part Two
Yesterday, we shared ways you could reduce event costs for your next corporate entertainment event. They included tips on setting your goals to guide decisions, and planning the timing and location of your function. If you missed that post, you may find it here.
Today we continue with two very important areas. People remember the food and the corporate entertainment, so these tips are extremely important.
Food And Beverage:
There are plenty of ways to save on food and beverage expenses without hurting the quality of the catering. Great food makes happy guests – so don’t skimp on taste!
One of the easiest ways to save on food and beverage is to select a venue that has in-house service. They will usually be flexible with you to help meet your budget. Outside catering tends to cost more since food must be prepared and brought in for service.
A buffet is usually less expensive than a full service banquet. If you choose to have a seated meal, make sure to arrange all vegetarian, diabetic or kosher dishes in advance. This way you aren’t paying for an extra entrée that isn’t eaten because someone required a specific meal. Special requests can also slow down service.
For beverages, consider a beer and wine bar, instead of full service. A cash bar is also an option. Some events offer guests drink tickets for a complimentary beverage or two. If someone wishes to drink more, he or she can then purchase alcohol.
Corporate Entertainment:
You may think, being on a corporate entertainer’s web site, that we would encourage you NOT to cut your budget when it comes to corporate entertainment. You would be wrong. You can save money on your corporate entertainment; you just want to be careful how you proceed.
Big name entertainment makes a nice headliner, but they can be expensive.   They often come with a hefty price tag, an expensive technical rider and other travel/transportation fees. With a bit of research, you can usually find great corporate entertainers that are less expensive. They may not be an instantly recognizable name, but by working with you to create personalized content, they can engage your audience on a more intimate level. You get value for your investment and guests receive a unforgettable experience.
These acts usually have less stringent technical requirements, meaning additional savings on your AV requirements. In some cases, you can have the talent roll all travel into their fee. This way you aren’t hit with any surprises.
That's all for today. Tomorrow we will close this series out with three more important tips to help reduce the cost of your next corporate event.  As always, wishing you success with your next corporate function!
For part three, click here …
