When searching for venues for your awards presentation, it is important to have a clear idea of the expected number of guests. If you are planning an awards event for your company then you may have a clear idea of numbers. However, many event planners will be planning awards dinners or luncheons with ticketed sales, which can often mean that the number of guests will depend on a number of variables. As such, it is important to find a venue that will not look too empty if your lowest predicated numbers are reached, whilst having the capacity to hold your upper expected numbers. One way to achieve this is to use a venue that has a large reception space separate to the main event space. This way you may be able to hold the drinks reception in a separate space if a high number of guests attend. If the number of guests is lower than expected then the entire event can be held in the main space; splitting it into a drinks reception area and seated awards space. Many venues will be willing to provisionally hold an additional space without a deposit for as long as possible, which can give event planners more time to assess how ticket sales are going.

There are many different ways of planning an awards ceremony event. Seated awards dinner or luncheons, with guests sitting around round tables are very popular. Another common format is to have a theatre style layout, where guests will take their seats and focus entirely on the awards. Another awards ceremony style that is becoming more popular is to have guests stand throughout the awards, typically with canapes and bowl food for the catering and plenty of entertainment to split up the event. Each format requires a different planning approach and our team of experts is on hand to advise if you are planning your own awards event. Please feel free to get in touch!