When planning an event, you are confronted by many decisions. However, choosing a venue is the one decision that will have the largest impact on your event. Jeff Kear at Planning Pod says ‘‘the venue sets the scene, dictates many choices related to the event, and influences the experiences of your guests probably more than any other factor’’ Bearing this in mind here are some variables you should consider when choosing a venue,
Accessibility
A big part of organising events is looking for a good venue that is accessible to anyone who might want to come. There are many ways a venue can impact on how easily different people can get involved in your event one of which is the accessibility of the venue.
Ample parking lots
Having ample parking lots at the event venue or at least within short walking distance should be a priority. Otherwise, your event could very well start late due to attendees having problems with access to parking.
Cost and your budget
No matter what else you’ll need to consider when planning an event, your budget will determine your options. According to Solaris, the venue decision will have “the biggest impact on your budget and overall performance of the event”.
Identify necessary amenities
Not all venues are purpose-built for all events. Many are set up perfectly for some things, but not others. So it’s a good idea to go through all of the amenities or inclusions you’ll be needing for your event, and cross-check those with the venue’s capabilities.
Large screens for projection, commercial kitchen, tables and chairs, Public Address system are among the most requested feature of event venues.
Assess safety risks
While most commercial venues have to meet certain safety standards, there will inevitably be other factors that could pose potential safety risks to your guests.
It is always a good idea to keep an eye out for location hazards. For example, a slippery pathway or a poorly lit entrance could result in an unfortunate bump or tumble.
With my years of experience in events planning and management and having visited many event venues in Africa, Chemline House Training and Event Centre, is one event venue, I would highly recommend for people that are safety cautious, love quality services with both low and high budget, doesn’t want any traffic delay to their events and wants to enjoy the ambience of good space.
You can visit Chemline House Training and Event Centre @ 7,Obasa Road Off Oba-Akran Avenue Ikeja Lagos to see for yourself.