Christmas is over and we’re about to step into a new year – 2018 to be precise.
If you’re responsible for organising your company’s events, you may well be looking ahead, with plans to book a venue, either for a one-off or a series of events.
There are many beautiful venues in Devon, each with their own USPs. Here are some of the things to consider when choosing your venue.
- Location
This is key, as you want your delegates to find the venue and not get lost in country lanes.
- Flexible set up
You might need more than one room, so your delegates can be split into groups.
- Natural light
Nothing is more tiring for delegates than to sit for hours in a room with little or no natural light. Daylight is crucial to keep minds focused.
- Parking
Free parking right next to the venue with access for delegates with disabilities.
- Catering
In-house catering using locally sourced produce, with flexibility to respond to any dietary requirements
- Experience
You will need a dedicated point of contact to make sure that your event goes exactly as planned.
- Activity options
Some organisations like to mix up their conference and combine serious seminars with teambuilding activities.
- Exclusivity
Your delegates won’t necessarily want to rub shoulders with others using the same venue, so an exclusive use option is worth considering.
- Costs
All venues will have their own tariff so make sure you know your budget before you approach a venue.
- Suitability
Does the venue reflect your organisation’s ethos and branding? Your delegates may want to tweet or Instagram about their day, so make sure the venue is going to look good.
Of course, in our top tips we have described Escot House!
Escot Park is easily found from the A30 and is located close to Exeter Airport and Feniton / Honiton train stations. It is a picturesque, historic house built in 1837, with three large rooms basking in natural light (each with beautiful views) that can be used in various set ups and can be booked for exclusive use. Your delegates will park right by the house.
Lucy Kennaway and her team will give you all the help you need to organise your event – with over 20 years of event and wedding planning, they are well-placed to advise you. Lucy is an experienced caterer and is used to catering for all dietary requirements. The Kennaway family have strong links with local producers and a commitment to supporting the local economy.
Our grounds are extensive, and we are fortunate to be able to offer a wide variety of team-building activities on site, including quad biking on a dedicated course, Segway, archery, clay pigeon and much more right in front of the house.
What’s more, we pride ourselves on offering an affordable venue that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Please get in contact to discuss your upcoming conference needs for 2018.
