Selecting the right venue is a crucial factor in the success of any event, regardless of its nature. The venue choice significantly influences nearly every aspect of the event, searching for the perfect venue a challenging task. In some cases, conventional options like conference centres and hotels may not align with the event’s requirements. Opting for an unconventional or unique conference venue, coupled with subtle decor adjustments, can be the key to seamlessly bringing your event together and achieving perfection.

 

If you aim to impress your attendees at your upcoming event, this article is tailored for you.

 

Why Choose an Unconventional Event Venue?

Numerous annual events follow a predictable pattern, either recurring at the same venue each year or rotating among a limited selection. Tradition often dictates the continuation of this practice. However, for those without such traditions, the freedom to select any venue that aligns with their purpose exists. In such cases, an unconventional or unique event venue may prove more fitting than the typical hotel or conference centre. What advantages come with opting for an unusual venue? Event stylists, experts in their field, provide several compelling reasons:

 

Enhanced Memorability

 

The success of events often hinges on creating memorable experiences. While many conferences opt for large hotels due to the convenience of combining conference facilities and accommodations, this choice may lack memorability. Selecting distinctive conference venues over traditional hotels has the potential to imbue conferences with a lasting impact.

 

The Venue as Inherent Décor

 

Transforming a space to look appealing can be a labour-intensive task at many events. Yet, when opting for a unique event venue, the venue itself becomes the backdrop. Choosing a location with inherent visual impact or panoramic views can minimize the need for extensive decorations, streamlining event preparation.

 

Amplified Brand Messaging Impact

 

Strategically selecting a venue with brand messaging in mind can significantly amplify the effectiveness of marketing efforts, requiring less direct involvement. When the venue aligns seamlessly with a brand’s values, it can enhance the sincerity and impact of messaging. For example, if sustainability is a core brand value, an urban farm might be an ideal choice for team-building activities.

 

5 Types of Unique Event Venues

1. Art Galleries and Museums

 

Art galleries and museums offer versatile settings for a wide array of events. Many museums now boast designated spaces tailored for hosting banquets, galas, meetings, and conferences.

 

A significant advantage of these venues lies in providing an opportunity that most individuals seldom encounter. Few people have the chance to explore a museum or gallery after hours, free from the usual crowds. The unique nature of these spaces allows for experiences that are distinct and unavailable elsewhere. Offering private tours or lectures to event guests, for example, can enhance the allure of the event and contribute to increased ticket sales.

 

2. Gardens and Farms

 

From botanic gardens to urban and rural farms, outdoor spaces present a distinctive ambience for various events. They prove ideal for team-building activities and company picnics, providing ample room for large gatherings. Botanic gardens, with their elegant and picturesque settings, are perfect for outdoor banquets and corporate soirées. Explore a collection of over 90 barns and farm venues nationwide for additional inspiration.

 

3. Camps and Retreats

 

Camps and retreats offer both a tranquil backdrop and the chance for engaging and enjoyable physical activities. Particularly suitable for team-building exercises and executive or corporate retreats, these venues often cater to relatively small groups, although some can accommodate gatherings of several hundred.

 

In these settings, the venue itself becomes both the location and the activity. Challenges often involve conquering physical tasks situated on the venue grounds or participating in camping-style activities to foster team camaraderie.

 

4. Historic Homes

 

Open to the public, historic homes are typically grand residences surrounded by breathtaking gardens. These elegant structures, characterized by historically significant architecture and diverse interior spaces, make them ideal for executive retreats, exclusive events, and unique conferences. They can comfortably host medium to large groups, offering multiple interior spaces for concurrent sessions and activities.

 

5. Warehouses and Industrial Spaces

 

Converted warehouses and former industrial spaces, boasting expansive rooms and high ceilings, serve as remarkable event venues. These spaces are particularly well-suited for live performances, small trade shows, consumer-focused events like branded pop-ups, and exhibitions.

 

The key advantage lies in the venue itself serving as an integral part of the decor. Spacious, airy environments with features such as exposed brick or steel, and large windows, contribute to the memorability of events held in these venues.

 

10 Event Decoration Tips and Ideas 

1. Creative Food Presentation

 

Elevate your event experience by treating food as an art form that leaves a lasting impression. Beyond serving delectable dishes, the innovative arrangement and display of food can add an exciting element to your event decor. Consider unique features such as a doughnut wall or a DIY bar to captivate your attendees.

 

2. Textiles as Decor Elements

 

Unleash your creative flair with pipe and drape to achieve a welcoming and upscale event ambience. Fabric, strategically used, can transform the event decor by introducing a spectrum of colours. It creates an intimate atmosphere and gives the illusion of a larger space. If budget constraints exist, consider draping fabric selectively, focusing on buffet and serving stations.

 

3. Ceiling Embellishments

 

Create a visually striking experience by draping multi-coloured pennant banners or streamers from the centre to the corners of the ceiling. This impactful decoration works exceptionally well in smaller spaces with lofty ceilings. Using ceiling decor can reduce the need for extensive floor embellishments, saving both budget and space.

 

4. Innovative Table Decor

 

In the absence of an extravagant budget for crystal stemware and fine china, explore inventive table decorations. From distinctive napkin folds to captivating centrepieces, find unique ways to grab your attendees’ attention. Incorporating technology, such as using iPads as centrepieces, offers a cool way to keep attendees engaged by displaying event information, presentations, or images.

 

5. Creative Seating Arrangements

 

Set your event apart by reimagining traditional seating arrangements. Move away from banquet or theatre-style setups and opt for community seating to foster attendee engagement. Elevate the decor by choosing diverse chair styles, such as couches, bar stools, and bean bag chairs, depending on the setting.

 

6. Decorative Backdrops for Visual Appeal

 

Event backdrops serve as visual stimuli, bringing stages to life without overshadowing the main presentations. Depending on your budget, consider digital backdrops or use marquee letters to draw attention to the stage. Digital backdrops offer diverse options, from LED screens to captivating effects that enhance the overall presentation.

 

7. Creative Stage Design

 

Unleash creativity when setting up temporary staging by using distinctive elements to capture your guests’ attention. Whether incorporating statement furniture or opting for casual pieces like couches, the stage design can direct conversations and infuse interest into the decor. Modular staging, known for its versatility and affordability, can be easily assembled and integrated into existing or stageless venues.

 

8. Stylish Goodie Bags as Decor Elements

 

Transform small, attractively packaged goodie bags into part of the presentation, adding a decorative layer to the table. Beyond the excitement they bring, conference swag can serve as a branding and sponsorship opportunity, presenting your organization positively.

 

9. Strategic Event Lighting

 

Illuminate your event with a strategic lighting design that complements the overall ambience. Tailor the lighting to the type of event, ensuring ample light for note-taking in conferences without distracting from on-stage presentations. Utilize lightweight, colourful LED lights or explore 3-D projections to add a vibrant touch to the venue.

 

10. Digital Integration for Engagement

 

Infuse technology into your event by incorporating digital elements. Utilize digital media and technology to streamline event decoration. Enhance engagement by implementing a social wall that displays attendees’ social media posts on a large screen. Encourage attendees to share event photos using a designated hashtag, creating a dynamic and memorable experience.