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Consider a Non-Traditional Venue

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Event Sites: Consider a non-traditional venue

An increasingly popular event site is the non-traditional venue.  Choosing a venue for an event is one of the most important decisions in the event planning process. It can influence the energy in the room, the event’s performance, not to mention the budget and logistics.

While there are the tried and true traditional hotel/conference center options, a non-traditional venue, such as a gothic church, barn, or museum are increasingly popular, and with good reason – they provide attendees and guests with a truly unique experience, ignite conversation, and usually offer the choice of bringing in your preferred rental partners.

After fleshing out the event details and requirements, you can begin your search for an unconventional space to meet your needs. The McColl Center for Art and Innovation, located in uptown Charlotte, NC, is a great example, having just recently become available to rent. This neo-Gothic former church provides a fresh, unique space with edge and excitement for corporate events, non-profit fundraisers, holiday parties and more. With a revolving display of work by the Artists-in-Residence, a convenient location with free parking, and large, open space featuring warm brick walls and high, beamed ceilings, this architectural treasure offers a one of a kind guest experience for both intimate and large scale events.

The bottom line: choosing a unique venue for your event will complement and enhance the purpose and energy you are striving for. There are many exciting options available that will work logistically and within your budget.

Is Venue Selection Really That Important?

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Ever heard someone say, “It’s no big deal, let’s just have the event at the museum uptown”? Don’t be among the many event hosts or planners that make this common mistake. Venue selection can make or break your event. Here are 4 key reasons why venue selection is critical to the success of your event.

  1. How many times in the past year has your guest been to the venue you are considering? Don’t get caught sending an invitation to someone who has had five other invitations come across their desk for a similar event at the same venue. Choose something more unique that piques the guests’ interest rather than reminding them of another long redundant evening.
  1. Consider your budget. When your budget is limited, it is important to make sure that your venue provides optimum value. Every dollar counts and extra money spent on chairs, tables, linens, audio visual support, air conditioning, heat, etc. can be draining to a small budget.
  1. Consider the style of your event. It’s our belief that most any space can be turned into the perfect venue with a little bit of vision and creativity. However, some spaces are better suited for specific event themes. Avoid choosing a venue that is counter-productive to your theme or event style.
  1. What is your headcount? Don’t assume that you can fudge on the numbers. Filling the venue to capacity with guests on top of added elements such as staging, food tables and a band can make for a very congested and uncomfortable evening for your guests. On the flip side, avoid using a venue that fits 1000 people when you only have 100 guests. You don’t want your event to feel empty.