With the right strategies and equipment, venue managers and event planners make a dynamic duo. These tips will help you enhance your partnerships so you bring in more revenue for both businesses.
#1 Start with Strategy
Explore strategies that can help you become every event planner’s dream venue.
Check off their wish list
Ask event planners for the top 3 things on their venue wish list. It might be tech for event registration, beverage discounts, or white-glove attendee personalization. Offer the right incentives and staff up where it matters most.
Make a name for your venue
Stay visible at local Chamber of Commerce meetings and hospitality industry nights. Sponsor local fairs and events. Do whatever you can to maintain a local presence via media or word of mouth. The more buzz there is about your business, the more event planners you’ll attract.
Host vendor fairs
Vet resources for event clients by hosting annual vendor fairs for florists, food trucks, A/V professionals and caterers.
Get the most out of routine updates
Is your venue showing its age? Evaluate your spaces regularly so you can schedule necessary upgrades—from refreshed furnishings to up-to-date health and safety arrangements.
Diversify your food and drink
A variety of food and beverage vendors means shorter lines at events and happier attendees.
Help guests find their way
Whether it’s a bathroom break or a quick bite, establish a system that helps people find their way during crowded events. Think directional signs or posting average wait times at popular stands. These thoughtful details can help avoid long lines and frustrated event goers.
Take experiences to the next level
A warm welcome is essential, but don’t stop there. Think of other ways to improve a guest’s experience. Have staff ready where visitors may need them to answer questions. Consider next-level extras like cocktail service in lounge areas.
#2 Invest in Equipment Every Event Planner Needs
Event planners face the challenge of creating memorable, seamless experiences for guests—whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, festival, or private party. You can help them by investing in a versatile suite of portable bars, valet podiums, security stations and hostess stands. Here’s why you need the right equipment.
Enhanced guest experience
- Portable Bars: Offer convenient beverage access anywhere in the event, reducing wait times and preventing overcrowding. Easily add an extra bar, when and where you need it.
- Valet Podiums: Elevate the arrival and departure experience, making it smooth and professional.
- Security Stations: Provide security at entrances/exits so guests can safely relax and enjoy events.
- Hostess Stands: Provide a centralized point for welcoming guests, answering inquiries, and managing reservations or seating. This helps streamline the entry process.
Increased service capacity
- Deploy multiple bars or hostess stands to handle large crowds better, ensuring guest service isn’t compromised during peak times.
Operational efficiency
- Avoid confusion and keep events flowing smoothly from guest check-in to cocktails with specialized stations for every service.
- When equipped with the necessary tools and information, each unit allows staff to perform their roles more effectively.
Flexibility and mobility
- Portable units can be moved and adjusted according to the event space or the specific needs of an event, providing unmatched flexibility.
- They also offer adaptability to various venues, indoor or outdoor, without permanent installations.
Professional appearance
- Professional-grade event equipment like sleek hostess stands or elegant portable bars can significantly enhance the visual appeal of a setup, highlighting the event’s quality and the host’s attention to detail.
Revenue opportunities
- Portable bars can open up additional revenue streams at events through drink sales.
- Customization and sponsorship branding on units such as valet podiums or hostess stands can also generate extra income.
Cost-effective in the long run
- Investing in quality equipment may seem costly but can reduce rental costs over time, particularly for event planners who handle multiple events annually.
- Durable materials and designs mean these units can be used for numerous events over many years.
Custom style and branding
- Many types of portable event furniture offer branding and other customization options that can be tailored to fit an event’s specific aesthetic or theme.
Success Starts Here!
Set your event planner—and your venue professionals—up for success with the right AE International bars, podiums and stands. Shop online or call 866-224-7212 today.