Corporate social events are a fantastic way to build connections, celebrate achievements, and boost employee engagement. As a corporate event planner with over 20 years of experience, I want to share where to splurge and where to save will help you get the most return on your investment. Here’s a guide to making smart spending decisions for your next corporate event.
Where to Splurge
Catering & Beverages
Food and drinks are among the most memorable aspects of any event. A well-curated menu with high-quality ingredients, diverse options, and premium beverages leaves a lasting impression. Consider offering a mix of gourmet appetizers, signature cocktails, and dietary-inclusive options to ensure a top-tier experience. For a little more insight check out this post on why menu tasting is so important. The Value of a Menu Tasting.
Entertainment & Speakers
Entertainment can make or break your event. Investing in engaging performers, a well-known keynote speaker, or an interactive experience (such as a live band, comedian, or magician) will keep your guests entertained and engaged. Quality entertainment also adds a layer of exclusivity to your event. As an event planner who has been fortunate to work with some of the most talented country music acts in Canada, I can attest that music brings people together.
Photography
Capturing the best moments of your event is invaluable. Hiring a professional photographer and photo booth ensures high-quality visuals that can be used for marketing, social media, and internal promotions. Candid shots, team interactions, and event highlights provide lasting memories and promotional content. We wrote about this too in the Importance of an Event Photographer.
Audiovisual & Lighting
A well-executed audiovisual setup ensures clear communication and enhances the overall experience. Investing in high-quality sound systems, LED screens, professional lighting, and stage design can elevate your event’s impact. Poor AV can lead to technical glitches, which can be distracting and unprofessional. Also, we are big believers that lighting can transform any space. We wrote about this event secret in Event Planners Tool Box.
Where to Save
Invitations & Event Branding
Instead of printed invitations and elaborate event branding, opt for digital invites and social media promotions. Platforms like Eventbrite, Canva, and email marketing tools can help you create professional-looking invitations at a fraction of the cost.
Swag & Giveaways
Branded merchandise is nice, but it doesn’t have to be extravagant. Instead of expensive gift bags filled with generic items, consider meaningful, high-quality giveaways like digital gift cards, experiences, or personalized items that attendees will actually use.
Event Staffing
While experienced event staff is crucial, you don’t necessarily need an extensive team. Hiring a lean but well-trained group or utilizing volunteers for check-in and coordination tasks can help you save costs without sacrificing quality.
Spending wisely is key to planning a successful corporate social event. By splurging on elements that create impact and saving on aspects that don’t directly affect guest experience, you can host an unforgettable event without unnecessary expenses. Prioritize what matters most to your audience, and you’ll achieve the perfect balance between cost and experience. One last place to invest is in an experienced event professional. Looking to take elevate your next event? We would love to help you info@jenniferjamesevents.com
