Hosting a reception: tips and tricks for an unforgettable event!

Organizing a reception is not complicated in itself, but it does require a minimum of preparation beforehand. Very often organized for a special occasion, it always leaves a lasting impression on your guests, provided that everything goes smoothly... Here we provide you with the key points for organizing a reception so that it is a real success.

Why hold corporate receptions?

Basically, a corporate reception is an event that allows a company or group to celebrate a special occasion. It can be very important because it is an opportunity to bring together employees, teams, but also customers and partners...Receptions are therefore part of the internal and external promotional tools for any company. But let's be honest, in many cases it boils down to a buffet with a more or less prepared message, which may or may not be good (just like the buffet, for that matter :) ). And even if this format remains simple, it is nonetheless important in the eyes of the participants. However, it does not necessarily contribute to improving your employer brand image.

What if this reception could be taken to the next level by truly helping to promote your company and your employees?

• First, the context:
  Ask yourself why you are organizing a reception. The context and objective are essential for creating momentum around this event. There are many different opportunities to link this reception to a key moment in the company's activity: the launch of a new product, a merger or acquisition, the appointment of a new executive, the announcement of annual results, etc.

• Second point: the venue:
  Receptions are often held in the office. If possible, think outside the box! Organizing this event in an outdoor setting is symbolic for all participants, especially if the venue is linked to the messages to be conveyed.

• Third point: involvement:
  How many of us have ever attended a reception where we felt barely involved? Many... To prevent your audience from feeling the same way, involve your employees, give them the opportunity to speak, present a project, be rewarded, etc. As you can see, in this era of participatory management, top-down communication has less impact.

• Fourth point: communication:
  Regardless of the first three points, communication must be specific, targeted, and perfectly structured. Your organization can organize this communication (often digital) itself, or entrust it to a marketing agency (to create more creative, lively content, etc.). In any case, don't neglect this invitation, as it is the first impression and, as they say, first impressions are lasting!

In summary, what are the basics of organizing a reception?

First, you need to choose the date of the reception. Make sure that the date you choose fits in with your employees' availability. During busy periods, the mood may not be ideal for this. You also need to choose the venue. There are many places that can host your reception: restaurants, hotels, prestigious venues, etc. Then you need to draw up an organizational plan, assigning tasks, setting a budget, compiling a guest list, and deciding on catering, service, and entertainment. Finally, don't forget to send out the invitations, either digitally or on paper.

Why use an event planning agency to organize a reception?

Organizing a high-quality reception can be very time-consuming. It is a demanding task that may be worth entrusting to an agency specializing in events. Agence IS (an event communications and marketing agency based in the Paris region), through its IS Corporate division, specializes in consulting, support, and management for this type of project. We are committed to organizing a reception that reflects your image and meets your specifications. Our consulting team is here to guide you in your choices, putting their expertise at your service. Contact our corporate team for more information!