Top 5 Tips for Planning a Corporate Summer Party
Planning a corporate summer party is a great way to reward your team, strengthen company culture, and create lasting memories. Whether you're looking for a rooftop venue in London, a garden party setting in Birmingham, or a festival-style corporate event in the UK, finding the right venue and suppliers is key to success.
At Ginkgo Events, we offer a free venue-finding service to help you secure the perfect location. Here are our top five expert tips to ensure your summer event is a hit.
1. Choose the Best Venue for Your Corporate Summer Party
Your choice of venue sets the tone for your event. Whether you're looking for a casual outdoor space, a sophisticated rooftop, or a unique venue with character, it's essential to find a setting that suits your company culture and objectives.
Key factors to consider when choosing a corporate event venue:
- Location: Ensure it's easily accessible for all employees.
- Capacity: Match the venue size to your guest list.
- Facilities: Does the venue offer private event spaces, catering, or AV equipment?
- Weather protection: Outdoor venues should have covered options in case of rain.
💡 Did you know? 78% of employees say corporate events improve workplace morale and engagement. (Eventbrite, 2023)
Top corporate summer party venue recommendation: The Roof Garden at Century Club, London — *A stunning rooftop venue in the heart of Soho, offering spectacular skyline views—perfect for corporate summer parties, networking events, and team celebrations.*
2. Plan for the British Weather
The UK's unpredictable weather can be a challenge, so choosing a versatile venue with covered outdoor areas or indoor backup options is essential.
Ways to prepare for unpredictable UK summer weather:
- Select a venue with an indoor space as a contingency plan.
- Provide weather-appropriate amenities, such as parasols for sun protection or heaters for cooler evenings.
- Choose venues with retractable roofs or marquee options for flexibility.
Top venue recommendation: The Fazeley Studios, Birmingham — *This stylish venue blends indoor elegance with a private courtyard, making it ideal for all-weather corporate summer events.*
3. Enhance Your Event with Catering and Drinks
A corporate summer party isn't complete without great food and drinks. Whether you opt for BBQs, grazing tables, food trucks, or gourmet dining, catering plays a huge role in the success of your event.
💡 Fun fact: 65% of corporate event attendees say that food and drink are the most memorable part of an event. (C&IT, 2023)
Trending corporate event catering ideas:
- Interactive food stations, such as build-your-own burger or taco bars.
- Signature cocktails or craft beer tastings to add a unique touch.
- Locally sourced and seasonal menus for a fresh, high-quality experience.
Top venue recommendation: The Mowbray, Sheffield — *This beautifully restored venue offers bespoke catering, including wood-fired feasts and curated summer cocktail menus, perfect for corporate events.*
4. Engage Your Team with Entertainment & Activities
Adding entertainment and activities ensures your event is engaging and memorable. Whether it's live music, team-building games, or interactive experiences, the right entertainment will keep your guests involved.
💡 Corporate event trend: 72% of companies now include interactive elements, such as games and team challenges, in their events. (Conference News, 2024)
Top entertainment ideas for corporate summer parties:
- Live music or a DJ to set the mood.
- Outdoor games such as giant Jenga, cornhole, or boules.
- Unique experiences, including silent discos or mixology classes.
5. Incorporate Sustainability into Your Event
With sustainability becoming a growing priority for businesses, incorporating eco-friendly practices into your corporate summer party can align with your company's values while reducing environmental impact.
💡 Did you know? The UK events industry generates around 100,000 tonnes of waste annually, but sustainable event choices can significantly reduce this footprint. (Sustainable Event Alliance, 2023)
Ways to make your corporate event more sustainable:
- Choose venues with eco-friendly initiatives, such as renewable energy use and recycling programs.
- Opt for locally sourced, seasonal catering to reduce food miles.
- Encourage sustainable transport options, such as public transport, carpooling, or bike hire.
Top eco-conscious venue recommendation: The Conduit, London — *This exclusive venue is powered by 100% renewable energy and offers sustainable catering with a zero-waste approach.*
Book Your Corporate Summer Party Venue Today
At Ginkgo Events, we specialise in finding the best corporate summer party venues in the UK, completely free. Whether you're looking for a rooftop bar in London, a countryside retreat, or an outdoor festival-style venue, we'll find the ideal location to match your needs.
We also help with:
- ✔ Event planning and management to ensure a seamless experience.
- ✔ Sourcing top catering suppliers for gourmet dining, BBQs, or food trucks.
- ✔ Booking entertainment and team-building activities to engage your guests.
- ✔ Arranging accommodation for overnight stays.
- ✔ Finding meeting and conference spaces if your event includes a work element.
📅 Get in touch today to secure the best venues and suppliers before they book up.