Hundreds of top event professionals from across the West Coast came together in Los Angeles to celebrate and connect at PartySlate’s exclusive two-day gathering. Designed to highlight collaboration and creativity, the experience featured a stylish welcome party, a full day of educational panels, and a celebratory cocktail event — all thoughtfully curated to showcase the best in the event industry.
Hosted by PartySlate, the opening night was held at the iconic The Maybourne Beverly Hills. This luxury hotel set the tone for an evening of connection and celebration with elevated hospitality by House of Maybourne, who delivered impeccable catering and beverage service.
Bruce Russell Events expertly planned the evening, ensuring seamless execution from arrival to last call. Revelry Event Designers transformed the space with custom Parisian-inspired furniture that complemented the venue’s style and garden party vibe. Their design was beautifully enhanced by bold floral arrangements from Butterfly Floral & Event Design, featuring premium blooms sourced by FiftyFlowers that elevated the overall aesthetic. Their arrangements, layered with texture and elegance, filled the space with lush color and depth.
Dart Collective curated the entertainment with a blend of vibey tunes and live performance elements, creating an upbeat, rooftop-inspired atmosphere that set the perfect tone for networking over background jazz. Meanwhile, DarkBright Production illuminated the evening with lighting and top-tier AV production that gave the entire event a cinematic feel.
The luxurious linen selections by BBJ La Tavola provided the perfect base for each decor element. Personalized calligraphy by Cat Lauren Calligraphy and Signs of Our Lives added a chic, custom touch, sending guests home with bespoke luggage tags.
Day two began at the elegant and versatile Candela La Brea. Once again produced by Bruce Russell Events, the day delivered valuable insights and connections in a beautifully curated setting.
PartySlate leaders shared the latest technology offerings, including AI tools now available in Content Library, and the future vision for the company. Industry leaders and experts took the stage for panel discussions and fireside chats focused on industry trends, digital marketing, and invaluable networking.
Revelry Event Designers provided our beautiful stage rentals for our various speakers. Butterfly Floral & Event Design delivered over-the-top, sophisticated floral installations that beautifully complemented the event’s modern, neutral palette, with fresh, premium blooms sourced by FiftyFlowers enhancing every arrangement.
DarkBright Production handled all AV, lighting, and DJ services, ensuring clear sound and polished transitions between speakers and panels. Schaffer created a thoughtfully executed culinary experience with flavorful fare, while Candela provided the beverage program and morning bites.
The panelist and speaker setup was enhanced by stylish chairs from Event City LA and essential catering rentals from Town and Country Event Rentals. BBJ La Tavola’s linens once again added texture and elegance to each setting.
The day’s sessions included top event professionals sharing their experiences and insights:
The Future of PartySlate with CEO, Julie Roth Novack and COO, Phil Brown
That evening, guests returned to Candela La Brea for a cocktail celebration that served as the perfect finale to the two-day experience. Produced by Bruce Russell Events, the event radiated effortless LA style.
PartySlate leaders shared the latest technology offerings, including AI tools now available in Content Library, and the future vision for the company. Industry leaders and experts took the stage for panel discussions and fireside chats focused on industry trends, digital marketing, and invaluable networking.
Revelry Event Designers reimagined the venue for evening festivities with dramatic draping and fresh lounge setups. Their custom bar build-outs and sophisticated furniture selections enhanced the rich taupe and espresso hues seen throughout the event design. Butterfly Floral & Event Design’s florals, sourced from FiftyFlowers, brought subtle color and creative structure to the design, perfectly complementing the event’s neutral tones and luxury feel.
Entertainment was provided by The Golden Coast All Stars, who kept the energy high with lively, engaging performances. DarkBright Production set the tone with dynamic lighting, immersive production, and a perfectly tuned soundscape.
Schaffer once again elevated the culinary experience, with creative stations and tray-passed delights from savory focaccia to a mozzarella bar and pho station. Candela’s in-house bar team served curated cocktails that kept the vibes going.
A photo booth experience from LA Photo Party gave guests the chance to take home fun memories. Town and Country Event Rentals provided key pieces for food and beverage service, while BBJ La Tavola’s linens tied everything together.
Guests toasted the end of a magical two days with sparkling rosé from Aphrodise, while custom calligraphy and engraving activations from Cat Lauren Calligraphy and Signs of Our Lives delighted guests with keepsake espresso cups.
PartySlate’s first two-day premium member event was one to remember, and we’re incredibly grateful to have partnered with top-tier creative teams to capture it all. Duke Images captured the energy and elegance of the event through candid, editorial-style photography — from joyful guest moments to stunning design details. Meanwhile, René Zadori Films documented the experience with cinematic precision, producing a dynamic video that immerses us in the event’s spirit from start to finish. Both teams are trusted collaborators, known for their ability to preserve the essence of an event through timeless visual storytelling.
A special thank you to Ceci New York, whose artistry elevated the entire guest experience. From custom invitations and event signage to menus and printed materials, Ceci’s signature aesthetic added a layer of luxury and cohesion across every touchpoint — seamlessly tying together the branding and design.
The night’s success was made possible in part thanks to event sponsor Rock Paper Coin, who supports event pros with streamlined digital planning tools.
Lastly, we’re grateful to LM Media Worldwide and LLC / Kleinfeld Hotel Blocks for securing hotel accommodations for the hundreds of guests who traveled in from all over the country and beyond, ensuring a smooth and comfortable stay throughout the celebration.
For more than 25 years, NXTevent has been a leader as an event and Destination Management Company (DMC), crafting seamless, high-touch event experiences that leave a lasting impact. At the helm is Ally O’Connor, a visionary entrepreneur whose unique blend of creativity, logistical expertise, and deep industry knowledge has made NXTevent the go-to partner for clients navigating the complexities of large-scale events in Boston and beyond.
The company offers a full range of services that include special event design, entertainment production, transportation management, activities and excursions, tours and recreation, team-building, meeting and registration services, airport meet and greet, and program staffing. They should be your go-to fundraising galas and corporate events, from product launches and conferences to product launches and holiday parties in Boston and far beyond.
In this exclusive Q&A, O’Connor shares the evolution of the events and DMC industries, the story behind NXTevent, and what sets her team apart. From balancing artistry with strategic problem-solving to staying ahead of industry trends, she offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to create extraordinary events.
Read on to find out why you need a company that combines both event and DMC services and why we love NXTevent.
What first drew you to the event planning industry, and what has kept you passionate about it over the years?
“My journey started at Cornell in the hotel program. A friend, who was working for an event firm in New York, raved about her job but was leaving to start a family. She literally set me up with an interview, and that’s how I got my start in events—I didn’t know much about the industry, but I had a passion for food, beverage, and creativity.
“What’s kept me passionate? The fact that no two days are the same. My brain thrives on both creativity and logistics, and this industry constantly feeds both sides. One day, I’m designing lighting concepts inspired by the changing light near the ocean where I live, and the next, I’m tackling complex project management. It’s a blend of art and problem-solving, and that’s what keeps me hooked.”
A glamorous evening inspired by the Kennedy era, including Boston Minutemen, exquisite period décor, and live pop jazz. Exclusive insights into the lives of the Kennedy clan created an immersive journey.
Tell us about NXTevent and what sets you apart.
“Being a singly-owned DMC for 25 years is pretty extraordinary. Many DMCs have been absorbed into experiential marketing agencies or consortiums, whereas we’ve remained focused solely on destination management. Our strength lies in truly listening to our clients—understanding their vision and reimagining it for them. Every project requires creativity, whether in design, logistics, or even finance. Our experience allows us to anticipate challenges, overdeliver, and ensure that every event we produce leaves a lasting impression.”
This colorful Colorado-themed corporate event combined rustic elegance and vibrant mountain-inspired details. With dramatic wooden structures, cozy lounge areas, loads of greenery and texture, the design brought nature’s beauty indoors.
Explain the scope of an event and DMC and how you operate within the industry. How are you different from what people would call an “event planner”?
“The term ‘DMC’ was created around the time I graduated from college. Before that, events either fell under advertising agencies or general tourism services.
“A DMC’s role is to manage groups coming to a destination. I often compare it to building a skyscraper—we create entire event ecosystems for a day or a week, handling everything from transportation and venue sourcing to entertainment. Unlike event planners who might focus on weddings or corporate meetings, we’re curating full experiences, ensuring that every detail aligns seamlessly. We don’t just plan events—we design the entire guest journey.”
San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter was transformed into a high-energy street festival. From dazzling lights and curated art installations to food trucks and live performances, every detail was meticulously designed to celebrate local culture.
What are the biggest trends you’re seeing in the event planning and DMC industry right now, and how is NXTevent adapting to or driving them?
“There’s a growing demand for events that balance creativity with risk management. Security is a big one—many venues, especially stadiums, now require mandatory security screenings, even for private events. Clients often resist this at first, but when they see the larger picture, like the necessity of safety in today’s world, they understand why it matters.
“Sustainability is also huge. Clients want eco-conscious events that minimize waste and have a lower carbon footprint. At NXTevent, we integrate these trends seamlessly while ensuring our clients feel like their events are unique and personal.”
Guests and executives won’t forget this evening at AT&T Stadium. After a true VIP entry experience, partygoers enjoyed live music, drum-lines, roving entertainment, and delectable food stations. A pyro-technics show closed the evening.
Can you share an example of a logistically complex event and how you exceeded the client’s expectations?
“There isn’t just one complicated event—every event has its challenges. One moment, we might be problem-solving a budget that doesn’t match the vision; the next, we’re redesigning an entire program on the fly because of an unexpected obstacle.
“One of my early experiences with crisis management was during the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta when the bombing happened. I was at the event as a spectator, and later, when we faced a security crisis during an event in Boston, that past experience helped me react quickly and ensure our clients and staff were safe.
“In terms of logistics, we often take an existing event model, break it down into tiny pieces, and rebuild it for the modern era. Clients appreciate that deep-dive approach—it’s what makes them say, ‘How are we going to do the next one without you?’ That’s where our name comes from: my best event is always my next event.”
This conference invited global engineers to Boston for four-days of meetings and celebrations. From meetings to a festive reception featuring dueling DJ’s, mirror people, stilt walkers and more, guests had a great time (with a surprise flash mob to top off!).
We know relationship and referrals are everything. Tell us what drives your growth and how you connect with new clients.
“It all comes down to trust. People buy from people they like and trust, and in a city like Boston, relationships are everything. You need to understand the key players—Meet Boston, Signature Boston, the hotels, and how business is engineered into the city. Each venue has different priorities—some focus on incentive groups, others on large conventions—so knowing how to navigate these relationships is essential.
“At NXTevent, we also leverage our digital presence. PartySlate has been a huge driver for us because it showcases our work in a way that’s searchable and easy for clients to find. We’re intentional about our brand—we don’t want to be everything to everyone. Instead, we focus on high-touch, full-service projects that align with our expertise.”
In the age of social media and influencers, corporate events are the marketing gifts that keep on giving. With new products, photo ops, and creative ideas constantly circulating on channels like Instagram and TikTok, hosting an experiential marketing event is the key to getting influencers and social media algorithms to do the work for you.
Popular beauty brands and clothing lines, in particular, influence much more than fashion trends. From Sephora shelves to department stores, some of your favorite cosmetic and clothing companies have perfected experiential marketing and corporate event execution. Below, you’ll find 33 branding moments and experiential marketing ideas that range from juice pouches to caviar tins, tennis matches, painted products, and more ideas that you’d never think of yourself.
Sunday Riley proves branded backdrops are the key to a memorable corporate event. The launch of their CEO Afterglow face cream perfectly matched packaging to the party palette, with shades of their brand’s signature orange throughout.
There’s no place like home — especially when it looks like a LoveShackFancy catalog. The clothing brand expanded their offerings into home décor, and they celebrated by putting their new products to work. The brand’s signature feminine patterns and soft hues covered lounge chairs, pool floats, tables, and more.
Take out the team with branded take out. Glossier treated employees to an all-company dinner, and they didn’t miss a beat when it came to showing off their logo. It’s no surprise that a makeup brand paid plenty of attention to detail in the makeup of their entire event, from key place cards to floral centerpieces.
Skims is no stranger to innovative events — after all, their founder Kim Kardashian is a marketing genius herself. Their latest company Christmas party doubled as a holiday advertisement with branded tacos, projection mapping, lounge throw pillows, and more.
The 7 For All Mankind “Beach Club” in Malibu celebrated the brand’s summer collection with a day at the seashore. Branded popsicles, beach towels, and lounge chairs kept guests enthused between trying on jeans in the (also branded) pop-up dressing room.
Class is in session. What better way to tell customers that they need your products than by teaching about them. Laneige’s “Hydration School” event in Los Angeles included product-filled lockers for each guest, along with hydrating smoothies, ombré blue florals, and informative skincare sessions. Forget evidence-backed formulas; we want evidence-based marketing.
Toes in the water, bags in the sand. Rebecca Minkoff partnered with Magnum Ice Cream on the launch of their new vegan clutch and Magnum’s new vegan ice cream flavors. The beachfront celebration was hard to miss thanks to neon lettering that could be seen from all angles — making it the perfect photo focal point.
FP Movement, the athleisure line by clothing brand Free People, got active with an experiential event. Green juice shots, a yoga class, and a floral-adorned photo op were the perfect way to get influencers practicing and posing in their workout gear.
Kosas brought cool looks to hot temperatures in honor of their summer beauty line. A frozen fruit station, ice sculpture, “wet bar,” and colorful candy spread — all with the company’s branding on it — made this rooftop experience a social media home run.
A hint of backstory in your branding is always a good idea. This Hollywood-style vanity mirror was the perfect branded photo op for Charlotte Tilbury’s summer celebration — reminding influencers and customers alike that the company came to be thanks to Princess Diana and other iconic celebrity figures who hired Charlotte Tilbury to do her makeup.
What better way to start a new year of marketing than on the first night of the year? Ole Henriksen’s New Year’s Eve party was planned to perfection with a branded beer pong table and to-go bags filled with sample-sized products.
We love a blush palette for a blush launch. Lawless, known for its plumping lip gloss, officially ventured into face makeup with a “pinch my cheeks” event. Each shade of their new cream blush was perfectly placed in a bed of matching florals for guests to awe over before grabbing their own. Not to mention, each attendee got their name engraved on their brand new product.
Stop and smell the toner. Kiehls produced a lab-inspired event, taking guests through the ins and outs of their most popular products. A giant Kiehl’s “Calendula Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner” bottle spilled florals in their signature orange shade, ingraining the product in our minds — and our wallets.
Patrick Ta took corporate branding to chic places at their latest showcase. Clever pedestals and stations filled the space, including a “Patrick’s Playlist” DJ booth, a “Cafe PTB” coffee stand, and a “Find Your Flavor” ice cream cart — all in the brand’s signature block font. Attendees posed in front of lush cascading florals and collected products off of crisp branded displays.
Check out this renovation with innovation. Saks Fifth Avenue unveiled their brand new Beverly Hills store with light bites, lovely music, and lots of florals. Guests got a taste of glamour, being pampered with deluxe savory appetizers, gold-encrusted macarons, and high-end Champagne. What more could put you in the shopping mood?
How do you stand out with a branded photo op? Put it on a boat. Murad switched their corporate event venue from land to sea, wowing guests with a social media-worthy experience. Aside from receiving Murad’s latest skincare products, guests got to customize hand-woven fans to keep them cool.
How do you celebrate a botanical new perfume? Lots of botanicals, of course. Vince Camuto put on a floral-filled product launch in New York City, equipped with a fresh bottle for each visitor, and a custom engraving station.
Aced it. Too Faced Cosmetics hosted a tennis tournament to promote the re-launch of their “Born This Way Matte & Blur” collection. The Newport Beach event was filled with branded moments, from tennis balls to hot pink sideline benches and racket bags. A brilliant way to play (and sell).
La Mer, the epitome of luxury in the skincare world, maintained its lavish reputation with an exclusive rooftop party in the hills. Synchronized swimmers performed in front of chic branded signage — not to mention, a stunning view of downtown Los Angeles. Guests also enjoyed elevated bites like grilled shrimp and fresh cucumber rolls.
Hair bonding, that is. Olaplex put on a “bond shaper” launch party for customers to explore their latest hair care products. The brand treated guests to branded black-and-white soft serve and carbon black waffle cones as they meandered through tube installations displaying new bottles.
Estée Lauder celebrated their new scent, Beautiful Magnolia, with an event for the senses. The pink carpet was rolled out in Miami for each attendee as they posed in front of a floral-filled pink convertible before getting their own hand-painted bottle and branded beach towel.
Lululemon opened their largest retail store in the world in Lincoln Park, Chicago — and they didn’t skimp on fresh details. A branded succulent wall made for the perfect photo-op entrance, while a “#sweatlife” Champagne wall greeted guests as they made their way to the store’s second floor.
Is there anything better than a good hair day? Prose is all about a truly customized hair care experience, with personalized products based on your hair type and needs. Their launch event accentuated their company values, offering each guest the opportunity to talk with experts and explore various product combinations to find the perfect fit.
Shiseido gave influencers more than a one-night event. Instead, they took them on an extended trip to the Southern Hemisphere, where guests explored the local Chilean culture by day and star-gazed by night. As guests hiked trails, played branded Jenga, and dined on local, fire-grilled fare, they continually posted about the brand, the products they were using, and the information they were learning from company experts.
Ilia is all about clean beauty products, from the ingredients to the application. Their branded dinner party followed suit — with neutral tones, natural woods, clean lines, and chic, simple place settings. The event honored inspirational women, with a hand-picked guest list of accomplished ladies, and offerings from woman-made-and-founded wines and tequilas.
photographer: Beatrice Howell Photo | posted by: The Revery LA
Biossance is known for their sustainable, plant-based skincare products — so it only makes sense that they hosted a sustainable, greenery-filled product launch. The luncheon took place at a venue teeming in natural light, where guests were offered fresh fare and bright beverages.
How do you emphasize the magnitude of your biggest brand launch yet? A branded spaceship in the desert might just do the trick. This multi-day Benefit mascara launch leveraged futuristic décor and glitzy entertainment to ensure a memorable experience for everyone in attendance (as well as those following along from home).
Marc Jacobs’ iconic Daisy Love perfume had a just-as-iconic launch day at the Santa Monica Pier. The designer took corporate event branding to new heights with a Daisy Love carnival that included a printed ferris wheel, carnival toss, ice cream cart, and surfboard-lined entrance.
Neutrogena went heavy on color at their Coachella pop-up dinner. The activation went from day to night with color-blocked candle sticks, photo ops, place settings, and pampas grass. Guests were buzzing over the boho affair as they learned about the company’s latest line of skincare products — while sipping on a variety of tequila concoctions.
Khloe Kardashian took the denim world by storm by creating a line that comfortably fits all shapes, sizes, and curves. Good American markets to real women, by real women, as shown by their branded New York City casting call in search of their next ambassadors.
Christian Louboutin, a designer brand known for its luxe red-bottom shoe soles, hosted a sultry fashion week party in partnership with Pernod Ricard spirits. Smoky cocktails with branded ice cubes, red-bottom serving platters, and bright red neon signage ensured that no guest forgot what brand they were there to celebrate.
You may not be able to judge a book by its cover, but Mario Badescu knows you can judge a product by its packaging. The brand turned their most popular items into lofty coupe towers — and put their classic company logo onto cocktails, pool stands, and more.
Sol De Janeiro partnered with Ulta Beauty on a multi-day influencer trip to Southern California. A memorable event from the trip took place at a bohemian Los Angeles restaurant, where the brands brought product-shaped photo ops to life and offered hand painted “Bum Bum Cream” — a fan favorite.
People Also Ask…
How can I find a corporate event venue?
PartySlate is a one-stop-shop for all of your party-planning needs — including finding a corporate event venue. Whether you’re looking for a private dining space for a team dinner, a rooftop for a product launch, or a raw space for a holiday party, PartySlate’s local venue directories help event hosts discover unique spaces for all event types.
From branded food and drinks from top caterers, to logo-inspired photo ops from experienced designers and florists, and social media-worthy content from skilled photographers and videographers, corporate event hosts can build their entire vendor team on PartySlate using our curated vendor directory.
Chicago boasts one of the most diversified economies in the United States — so it’s no surprise that the City of Big Shoulders is also the city of big corporate events. With such an abundance of Chicago corporate event venues, it’s important to know what to prioritize.
We reached out to five top Chicago corporate planners to learn more about their favorite venues in Chicago. From iconic hotels to hidden gems, these event venues offer the perfect setting to facilitate meetings, celebrate with co-workers, and connect with customers. Keep scrolling to discover 47 premier Chicago corporate venues with convenient locations, high-tech amenities, and photo-worthy backdrops.
*Venues listed in no particular order within locale…
Avondale
Known for its strong Polish roots, Avondale is becoming more diverse every year — resulting in a vibrant mix of Mexican taquerias, trendy coffee shops, upscale dining, and a growing arts scene — making business leaders take note.
With seasonal and garden-fresh meals from the on-site greenhouse and local farmers’ markets, Eden pairs ethically-sourced dining with a sleek, moody setting — such as the intimate private dining room for a VIP gathering.
Eden can accommodate up to 100 seated and standing guests.
Home to iconic Wrigley Field, Wrigleyville is a sports-centric neighborhood with charming residential blocks that pair harmoniously with the thriving nightlife scene. It’s the perfect neighborhood for an employee appreciation day or company-wide party.
For a blowout bash in one of Chicago’s most iconic destinations…
Wrigley Field offers unique team building activities like none other. Experience the batting tunnel, behind-the-scenes tours, Gallagher Way, or American Airlines Conference Center — plus welcome your guests with custom messaging on the famous marquee.
Wrigley Field can accommodate up to 1,000 seated guests and 40,000 standing guests.
Business leaders looking to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown gravitate toward Lincoln Park for the spacious urban park that spans over 1,200 acres along Lake Michigan. World-class cultural attractions and 19th-century mansions add to the beauty of this idyllic part of the city.
For a grand space with impressive views and engaging activities…
Cafe Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo boasts a dramatic Prairie School-style design with a vaulted skylit roof and sits adjacent to the picturesque Nature Boardwalk, a lush praire ecosystem where you’ll find plenty of wildlife and native plants.
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s “In Our Chicago Era” cocktail party which featured a towering Ferris Wheel replica and an LED wall that showed vintage clips of Chicago
Noelle McInerney of Ladidadi Events & Incentives shares, “Theater on the Lake is second to none when it comes to truly being lakeside. With a full buyout, the indoor/outdoor flow also provides clients with the ability to have food and beverage (as well as breaks) outside — complete with incredible views.”
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s celestial-themed cocktail party which featured a ceiling installation of hand-drawn stars and fluffy clouds
Theater on the Lake can accommodate up to 450 seated guests and 1,500 standing guests.
This historic neighborhood in Chicago is picturesque with its Victorian-era brownstones, greystones, and cottages — and home to the world-famous Second City and St. Michael’s Church, one of the few buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Out-of-town business guests will appreciate the mix of tourist sights, shopping, and dining that the neighborhood has to offer.
Perched on a rooftop above The Second City, Utopian Tailgate delights party-goers with its colorful décor, tabletop games, swings, faux turf, and elevated pub grub — also did we mention the sweeping city views?
Utopian Tailgate can accommodate up to 90 seated guests and 300 standing guests.
Leave the office routine behind and venture out to IO Theater where your guests can enjoy custom shows and one-of-a-kind improv workshops in one of four theaters and 5 breakout room and studio spaces.
iO Theater can accommodate up to 250 seated guests and 1000 standing guests.
Known for its historic mansions, Michelin-starred restaurants, and luxury lifestyle, the Gold Coast is home to many of the city’s most successful business leaders. It’s numerous luxury hotels, exclusive clubs, and sophisticated nightlife scene make it an attractive choice for executive meetings and conferences.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago Hotel is renowned for their hospitality and luxurious backdrops inspired by Parisian style and 20th century writers — plus, you can even create a custom attendee website for your event with their services.
For a boutique luxury hotel with premier amenities…
Thompson Chicago boasts state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and sleek interior designs for the perfect corporate setting; we especially love the Froines Room for an executive business meeting.
Thompson Chicago can accommodate up to 170 seated guests and 220 standing guests.
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, Chicago combines delectable dining with stunning views and an elegant event space with a cozy fireplace, rich wood paneling, and dynamic views of Rush, State and Bellevue.
Located on the Magnificent Mile, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago offers a sophisticated setting — from the spacious Grand Ballroom to the exclusive 8th-floor lounge — that’s just steps away from your favorite attractions.
Park Hyatt Chicago features award-winning cuisine in a luxury Michigan Avenue setting and several versatile meeting rooms that can easily cater to any type of corporate event, including the spacious Nomi Garden for an outdoor cocktail hour.
Park Hyatt Chicago can accommodate up to 150 seated guests and 200 standing guests.
This vibrant neighborhood is conveniently located next to major attractions such as Navy Pier, The Magnificent Mile, and picturesque lakefront trail. You’ll find a mix of historic buildings and sleek, modern skyscrapers for a more laidback atmosphere just minutes from downtown Chicago.
Located on the iconic Michigan Avenue, Museum of Ice Cream boasts one-of-a-kind interactive playscapes (such as the sprinkle pool and make-your-own ice cream stations) and unlimited ice cream with Chicago-themed flavors available.
Anthony Navarro, Creative Director of Liven It Up Events, shares, “What’s great about this venue is the gorgeous outdoor garden and terrace paired with the modern and sleek interior that can easily be transformed for any event.”
Conveniently located on the Magnificent Mile, this renowned hotel features 45 event spaces and 42 breakout rooms for a productive business meeting, company-wide summit, holiday party, product launch, or other type of corporate event.
Foodies revere River North for its upscale dining scene that includes some of Chicago’s most lauded restaurants. Its vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and close proximity to Merchandise Mart make it the perfect destination for a corporate event.
McInerney of Ladidadi Events & Incentives shares, “House of Blues is quintessential Chicago and definitely unexpected when it comes to a meeting space. However, the built in A/V is second to none, and they are SHOW READY for any entertainment you could dream of. The beautiful architecture also helps save costs when it comes to décor, because the space is stunning on its own.”
House of Blues Chicago can accommodate up to 500 seated guests and 1,800 standing guests.
In addition to delectable bites and an on-site private events team, River Roast Social House boasts several stunning event spaces like The Veranda situated right on the Chicago River and the elegant Monarch Room with direct access to the River Walk.
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s spring soirée which featured blush hues, tropical-glam centerpieces, and faux fur-covered lounge seating
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago offers everything from sumptuous ballrooms to luxe meeting rooms with private entrances, flexible floor plans, and the most enviable views.
Imagine entering your corporate event through a 100-year-old, Chinese gate and then down a lantern-lit exterior alley before discovering one of many one-of-a-kind event spaces. The Chandelier Room is particularly impressive with its vaulted ceiling, customizable LED archways, and 20-foot-tall mural with a full projection-mapped light show.
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s cocktail party for influencers and event luminaires which featured a lantern-festooned cherry blossom tunnel and a wow-worthy backdrop of rich red roses, paper fans, and umbrellas
River West boasts a mix of industrial, residential, and artistic elements that make it increasingly popular with the city’s young professionals. Out-of-town guests appreciate the direct access to both downtown and O’hare on the Blue Line.
The Dawson’s Courtyard is easily one of the city’s most lauded outdoor event spaces. The full-amenity patio features a pergola, fireplace, custom paving, and chic urban backdrops.
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s happy hour which featured an indoor/outdoor space for the perfect event flow
The Dawson can accommodate up to 220 seated guests and 400 standing guests.
Chicago’s official downtown area is home to some of the most iconic tourist attractions, like Millennium Park campus and the Chicago Riverwalk. Named after the elevated L train that makes its circuit around Lake Street, Wabash Avenue, Van Buren Street, and Wells Street, this neighborhood makes transportation from the office to your event spac both quick and hassle-free.
Situated on the 66th and 67th floors of Chicago’s Willis Tower, The Metropolitan offers prime amenities such as member work stations, video conferencing, on-site event support, and, of course, dramatic city views.
The Metropolitan can accommodate up to 240 seated guests and 400 standing guests.
With galleries, auditoriums, and magnificent gardens, The Art Institute of Chicago provides a stunning backdrop with access to some of the most beautiful artwork in the world.
Situated in the 1929 Art Deco Carbide & Carbon Building, Pendry Chicago honors both past and present with its iconic exterior and stylish modern suites. In addition to its grand ballrooms, this luxe hotel boasts the best rooftop views and a cozy restaurant bar for an elevated corporate gathering.
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s chic summer soirée which featured the perfect rooftops space for an afternoon of networking — and spectacular city views
Pendry Chicago can accommodate up to 200 seated and 400 standing guests.
Navarro of Liven It Up Events, shares that The Chicago Cultural Center “is the perfect backdrop for a formal affair. The architecture is a vision of what Chicago is known for and the various spaces work well for dinners, cocktail parties, galas, and more!”
Game Room at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel offers on-site pool tables, bocce, shuffleboard tables, and foosball for immersive team-building activities or holiday party fun.
Rachel Axelrod, Founder of Axelrod Consulting, shares, “Convene’s property in the Willis tower is AMAZING! On the tech side, it is super modern and state of the art, but, at the same time, it has a cozy, warm feel. Also, the space overlooks the coolest high-end food court in all of Chicago. The best part is that its largest ballroom has floor-to-ceiling windows, something you almost never see in a huge conference space.
Once a mostly industrial area, West Loop is now the place to go for the city’s trendiest restaurants and nightlife. You’ll find plenty of Michelin-starred dining options as well as the Fulton Market District — a sub-neighborhood filled with boutique shops, unique bars, and trendy eateries.
Take your corporate event to the next level with food and wine pairings, wine blending, and custom wine labels in an exquisite event space that encompasses a concert venue, wine garden, private barrel room, and more.
City Winery Chicago can accommodate up to 240 seated guests and 900 standing guests.
photo courtesy of caterer: Blue Plate Catering | décor: KEHOE DESIGNS, HMR Designs & The Flower Firm | venue: The Old Post Office
For a grand space with a 1920s aesthetic…
McInerney of Ladidadi Events & Incentives shares, “For clients looking for turn-key a/v, the Old Post Office is a great option. The venue has multiple space options for groups of different sizes; we recommend this venue for groups open to being around other groups and transitioning between spaces.”
The Old Post Office can accommodate up to 800 seated guests and 5,000 standing guests.
For an urban-chic event space with a warm ambiance and plenty of light…
With 7,500 square feet of space, Loft Lucia offers a private outdoor terrace as well as a bright and spacious industrial-chic indoor event space with oversized windows and two marble slab bars.
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s 2nd annual summit which featured chic black and white backdrops, marbled linen, and matte balloon décor
Loft Lucia can accommodate up to 120 seated guests and 150 standing guests.
Tasting menus and wine pairings curated by the on-site sommeliers are offered at this stunning two-Michelin-starred restaurant and event space. Make sure to book the After Lounge for an after-party in an upscale yet futuristic setting.
The Canvas by Ever can accommodate up to 80 seated guests and 100 standing guests.
Carnivale is your go-to venue for dynamic entertainment. This colorful private event space, with the ability to host aerial performances, sets the scene for an unforgettable corporate event.
Carnivale can host up to 550 seated guests to 1,250 standing guests.
For a versatile space that can be configured to meet your business needs…
This industrial-chic repurposed factory features 15,000 square feet of interconnected space that includes an open studio, galleries, production office, pre-function space, and prep and green room areas.
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s launch party which featured bold jewel-toned uplighting, creative gobos, and suspended floral décor
Moonlight Studios can accommodate up to 550 seated guests and 1,000 standing guests.
Nicole Fauls, Owner and Lead Planner of Urban Allure Events, tells us that City Hall is “an amazing space that can hold larger groups with flexibility to add on additional space or host additional events at Recess next door.” She also appreciates the in-house a/v and sound system, valet parking options, and “an on-site scissor lift to make décor installs as easy as possible for your vendor teams.”
City Hall can accommodate up to 300 seated and over 980 standing guests.
Fauls of Urban Allure Events, tells us how Room 1520 is “perfect for daytime meetings or evening events for groups of 150 or less — with in-house sound, wireless mics, a VIP suite with privacy lock, conference table, private restroom, and a projector for all of your meeting presentation needs.”
Room 1520 can accommodate up to 150 seated guests and 200 standing guests.
Navarro of Liven It Up Events shares, “This giant industrial loft can be used in a variety of ways. For formal dinners, to cocktail style events, this space can easily be transformed and used for large groups to create a unique experience.”
Morgan Manufacturing can accommodate up to 600 seated guests and 1,700 standing guests.
Home to Chicago’s Museum Campus, South Loop Chicago is the perfect home base for guests looking to explore the top cultural institutions in the city. The myriad of museums also makes it easy to organize team-building activities for employees and business associates.
Katherine Brown, Owner and Lead Planner at Clover Events & Productions, shares, “We love the historical beauty of this space. There are so many options for groups, both large and small.”
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s progressive dinner party which featured three distinct event spaces with their own unique style and color palette
Hilton Chicago can accommodate up to 2,000 seated guests and 3,000 standing guests.
For a corporate dinner beneath the largest dinosaur skeleton ever discovered…
Brown of Clover Events & Productions asks, “Who doesn’t want to dine with the dinosaurs? We love the versatility of this historic venue and the opportunity for use of their outdoor space. Their preferred vendors are truly the best-of-the-best in Chicago, so you are sure to be in capable hands.”
Field Museum can accommodate up to 1,200 seated guests and 7,500 standing guests.
For an epic setting at one of Chicago’s most beloved landmarks…
Soldier Field offers colleagues and employees the unique opportunity to celebrate right on the field with the option for stadium tours or once-in-a-lifetime activities like a field goal kick — plus, you can display your company logo on the TVs or video boards for a picture-perfect branding opportunity.
Soldier Field can accommodate up to 10,000 seated guests and 63,500 standing guests.
Overlooking Michigan Avenue and Grant Park, LM Studio is a bright and airy two-level atelier with bespoke design elements. Guests love the creative catering by LM Catering that turns every plated meal into a work of art.
LM Studio can accommodate up to 150 seated guests and 300 standing guests.
For an eco-friendly celebration in a beautiful setting…
Imagine staring out a 10-story faceted window wall that overlooks some of the best spots in the city, all while knowing you are celebrating in an environmentally sustainable building with state-of-the-art a/v and an experienced on-site event production team.
Venue Six10 can accommodate up to 398 seated guests and 1,000 standing guests.
Once the site of Chicago World’s Fair of 1893, Hyde Park is still an intellectual powerhouse with institutions such as the University of Chicago and the largest science museum in the Western hemisphere (keep scrolling to see why it’s also the perfect corporate event venue).
This glamorous Art Deco-designed ballroom, located atop the former Piccadilly Hotel & Theater, wows with 1920s style, fully restored crown molding, and 20-foot arched windows that feature dramatic skyline and lakefront views.
For interactive displays, guided tours, and awe-inspiring backdrops…
Dine next to a German submarine, hear a keynote speaker in the expansive Auditorium, or dance the night away under the majestic Rotunda for a truly spectacular celebration that offers plenty of “wow” moments and unique décor opportunities.
Home to a thriving arts scene, eclectic boutiques, and neighborhoods rich in Latino culture, Pilsen delights visitors with its colorful buildings and beautiful street art. You’ll also find some of the best authentic restaurants and dive bars in the city for a post-event nightcap.
For a versatile event space with limitless capabilities…
Brown of Clover Events & Productions shares, “This space is impeccably designed and highly customizable, making it the perfect fit for any corporate group. We especially love the permanent registration desk, the existing décor options, and the fabulous green room. Working with Kehoe Designs and BlackOak Technical Productions, who are both on-site, make the planning process seamless and streamlined.”
The Geraghty can accommodate up to 1,000 seated guests and 1,500 standing guests.
Home to five former Chicago mayors, Bridgeport boasts a strong political legacy. This diverse neighborhood has strong blue-collar roots, but it’s also seen a recent influx of artists and creatives. Dining options range from authentic Chicago hot dogs to authentic Chinese cuisine.
For a trendy event space in a historical building…
Bridgeport Art Center boasts a historic 1911 building and wows with dramatic ceilings, unique artworks, sweeping views, and an expansive, customizable floor plan for a seamless event flow.
Bridgeport Art Center can accommodate up to 650 seated guests and 1,200 standing guests.
This designated Chicago landmark is famous for its significant role in the early development of the automobile industry. This designation makes it easier to find preserved historic buildings for a corporate event infused with Chicago’s industrial spirit.
Built in 1936, and once home to Illinois Automobile Club and the Chicago Defender building, Revel Motor Row wows with unique historic details and over 20 event spaces with versatile designs.
Revel Motor Row can host up to 275 seated guests to 2,000 standing guests.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, and host your event in one of Chicagoland’s charming northern suburbs. The Metra Commuter Rail and several expressways make it easy to plan a day trip to Chicago, as well.
Conveniently located on the edge of Rogers Park and Evanston, this beautiful rustic venue space features double bowtruss ceilings, on-site rentals, two custom bars, a full-commercial kitchen, and plenty of breakout space for team activities.
Palmhouse can accommodate up to 400 seated guests and 800 standing guests.
This 2,200 square foot space is beautifully designed and fully furnished with flexible seating arrangements. Guests love the on-site catering, with options like boozy shakes, a full hand-crafted mocktail menu, and mouthwatering bites that range from all-beef salami lollipops to farfalle with pesto.
Uptown Glencoe can accommodate up to 80 seated guests and 160 standing guests.
Situated on 385 acres of manicured gardens, native woodlands, and pristine lakes, Chicago Botanic Garden is the perfect choice for a summer corporate cocktail hour or seated dinner. You can even book the Alsdorf Auditorium for meetings or lectures before celebrating in the beauty of the outdoors.
Where can I find more inspiration for my corporate event?
PartySlate is your go-to resource for corporate event planning. Click on the following to discover the latest corporate event trends as well as classic party ideas that never go out of style:
We especially recommend reaching out to the expert planners who helped curate this list. You can reach out directly to a preferred planner by clicking on the “Contact” button.
New York is a city bustling with commerce and home to many companies. In a city so large, it can be daunting to locate the right corporate event venue for your specific vision. We spoke with the best corporate planners in the city to round up the best spaces for your company’s event, whether you’re hosting an employee party, corporate conference, product launch, experiential activation, or even a fashion show.
Kimberly Seeherman Brown of experienced planning firm Hudson & Nine, shares what she looks for when choosing a space for a corporate event, “Since most of our brand activations include significant build-outs and space transformation, I always appreciate a venue that is versatile with production-friendly capabilities like integrated rigging points, thoughtful power distribution, and ample access for loading. These features greatly ease production logistics and allow for the economical integration of high impact elements like branded architecture, large props and other fabricated elements. Additionally, flexible spaces that have multiple flow options allow the planner to truly customize the guest journey for a bespoke and meaningful experience.”
Our list of the best corporate event venues in New York is conveniently organized by neighborhood and features our in-the-know perspective on each spot. Find even more resources for your corporate event at the end.
For a space that transforms for any theme you can dream…
Brett Galley from the esteemed planning team at Hollywood POP Gallery, says of the space, “It offers a wonderful view of NYC featuring full glass walls looking out to the west side views. GHC has two beautiful floors to create a first half then second part of each event. We recommend this space quite often.”
See how this product launch hosted an elegant lunch gathering, with space dedicated to installations.
Glasshouse Chelsea features two event spaces that can accommodate up to 200.
For projection mapping that can create an immersive experience…
Lavan 541 features the best of both worlds; it’s a natural light-filled space that also houses the utmost in technical capability for 270-degrees of projection mapping.
See how this modern black and white launch party celebrating the new Olay Body Labs Premium Body collection with fun interactive photo ops.
Lavan 541 boasts two events spaces that can accommodate up to 200.
For a customizable waterfront venue that can host large groups…
Pier Sixty, the largest waterfront venue in Manhattan, features an all-season terrace, blackout window shades, an on-site AV specialist, ground floor load-in, valet parking, and more.
Pier Sixty features three event spaces that can accommodate events for 800 to 2,500.
For a unique New York experience with multiple spaces to choose from…
The High Line, a holdover from the city’s elevated railway past, has been revived with a plaza, park, overlook, sundecks, and passage spaces for every style and theme of corporate gathering
The High Line features an amazing 11 event spaces to meet every need, for 80 to 950 guests
For creative, memorable fare and stunning Hudson River & The High Line views…
West Edge, located in Chelsea Market, overlooks The High Line and features truly innovative catering from the Creative Edge Parties culinary team as well as a transformable space.
Editor’s note: see PartySlate’s sophisticated New York launch party which featured a concrete jungle décor theme in a chic black, gray, and silver color palette
The Irish Exit is a creative concept from Dead Rabbit that will transport guests to Ireland with an amazing beer selection — and espresso martinis on tap.
Located in Moynihan Train Hall, the food hall offers variety with some of New York’s finest concepts, including Jacobs Pickles, Pastrami Queen, Alidoro, Sauce Pizza, Burger Joint, Chopt, and Naya, making it the perfect venue for private and corporate party hosts who want to prioritize fresh fare and delectable sips.
Explore the space’s recent launch party to see how cold drinks, food hall fare, and live music came together for an epic occasion.
The Irish Exit can accommodate from 20-300 coworkers, clients, or any other corporate guests you want to entertain with six spaces to choose from.
photographer: Up Studios | photo courtesy of & rentals: RentQuest
For a landmark venue with modern amenities…
Virtually column-free and ground-level, this space was custom-made to easily host memorable events in a landmark historic space.
The Altman Building’s PartySlate profile shows how flexible the space is. From conferences and summits to cocktail parties and gala events, companies choose this venue over and over.
You’ll want to see how this glamorous corporate holiday party used dramatic lighting, greenery, and luxe lounge furniture to transform the space.
For a grand venue with multiple unique spaces to choose from…
Hotel Chelsea has been a gathering place for artists and visionaries since 1884 and continues to play host to events of all kinds, including memorable corporate dinners, cocktails, and more.
Your guests will enjoy a uniquely elevated dining experience, operated by Sunday Hospitality — the team behind Sunday in Brooklyn, Sunday in London and Rule of Thirds.
See how this beautiful dinner for luxury reseller 1st Dibs treated guests to luxe surroundings, vintage fashion, and chic customization in The Bard Room.
Hotel Chelsea can accommodate up to 100 guests with a choice of six unique spaces.
For architectural detail that needs little added décor…
Rachel Behar of NYC-based planning firm, Rachel Behar Events, says that she opts for ”a venue that has enough space for mingling, in addition to keeping the flow going from one room to the other, makes everything more exciting” and notes that she loves hosting in The Bowery Hotel for these reasons.
See how beauty brand Glossier hosted their all-company dinner with an epic entrance in branded steps, ikebana florals, and creative place cards.
The Bowery Hotel can accommodate up to 50 guests for a unique and memorable intimate gathering.
For luxurious, totally-customizable loft space with wow views (and a terrace)…
Both Overland Entertainment and Hollywood POP Gallery — top NYC planning teams — recommend hosting a corporate event at The Glasshouse.
Galley from Hollywood POP says that the venue is, “One of our favorite ‘go-tos’ for corporate conferences and larger events. The views of New York city & large industrial areas are not found in any other location in New York. Also, their in-house a/v team is one of the best so I feel I can rely on their team of experts before we bring in the rest of our team to design our clients’ event.”
See how Hollywood POP created themed immersions for this corporate conference, like a citrus photo wall, green-hued luncheon, and more.
The Glasshouse features a large space to wow up to 2,200 guests, as well as pre-function space, two terraces, and multiple VIP/green rooms.
photographer: Steven Menendez and Oleg Photography | photo courtesy of & venue: Ascent Lounge
For luxe design elements, a cocktail lounge vibe, and dazzling skyline views…
Ascent Lounge offers a swanky atmosphere, dark wood paneling, unique modern chandeliers, and a glowing back-lit bar.
See how this sophisticated Kentucky Derby cocktail party decked the hip space in hot pink and dusty blue-hued lounge spots as well as areas for shopping.
Ascent Lounge can accommodate up to 500 for any type of corporate gathering.
For an eco-conscious celebration in a unique NYC space…
Leah Romeo of Overland Entertainment recommends planning a corporate event in Javits Center. In fact, the venue has played host to all types of corporate gatherings, from holiday parties and cocktails to product launches and summits.
Javits Center, a self-sustaining space with a seven-acre green roof, features stunning views of the Hudson River, soaring ceiling heights, a full production staff, and 45,000 square feet of flexible, column-free space.
Don’t miss how this corporate holiday party bathed the space in vibrant lighting, snowflake projections, and creative branding.
Javits Center features six event spaces that can accommodate up to 5,000
Romeo of top corporate event company, Overland Entertainment, recommends Terminal 5 for corporate events of all kinds. The spot features three floors of raw event space and high-tech sound and lighting.
Lehigh University chose the venue for a school-spirited cocktail party that included a creative entrance, on-point branding, and lots of space for creating connections.
Terminal 5 can accommodate up to 3,000 revelers for truly epic events.
Featuring two large spaces that boast luxe period style, Manhattan Center is perfect for corporate events ranging from fashion shows and product launches to premiers and conferences — with all-inclusive, customizable packages.
The space was perfect for the television excitement of the Fox Upfronts, seamlessly blended grandeur with cutting-edge technology for the star-studded affair.
For a memorable foodie-forward gathering with epic views…
PEAK boasts and entire floor of glass enclosed, column-free entertainment space with stunning views from every angle. Their commitment to sustainability with fresh, local ingredients is an asset for conscientious companies; additionally, the skilled chefs offer delectable menus to meet every need, from gluten-free to vegetarian and vegan options.
See how this corporate luncheon captivated, making the most of clear daytime views with mirrored tables and ghost chairs for a memorable affair.
photographer: Jennifer May Photography | photo courtesy of & caterer: CxRA
For a historic space with an industrial vibe that supports local charities…
The Prince George Ballroom is a modernized historic space that supports non-profit housing development and outreach programs for homeless — meaning you can have a great time with your employees or customers while helping vulnerable New Yorkers.
See how this corporate event showcased innovative food trends for the coming year with white installations that allowed the colorful fare to shine.
For a flexible space offering great branding opportunities…
This sunny, newly renovated space is endlessly transformable with an urban vibe with white brick walls and exposed beams. From experiential events and dinner parties to fashion shows and summits, Triangle Loft is popular for corporate events of all kinds due to its prime location and branding opportunities. You company can feel good about the venue’s partnerships with biodynamic sustainable farmers & woman-owned and -operated distilleries.
This pop-up event for Netflix’s show “Beef” utilized the clean, white space for a panel discussion followed by a dinner — all with chic branding everywhere.
For a beautifully-refurbished landmark space with an artistic aesthetic…
David Landgraf of top corporate planning company, Make It Happen Mgmt by David Landgraf, producer of many visionary corporate events, shares, “The Pool room, as part of The Seagrams Building’s landmarked restaurants managed and catered by the Major Food Group, is one not be missed. Its iconic interiors were designed by Mies Van der Roe and Philip Johnson and have been designated a landmark interior by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. The centerpiece of the room is a large, white marble pool, which provides a distinctive and unforgettable setting for any event or product launch.”
Click to see howPartySlate’s hosted our own latest NYC event in the space. There were branding opportunities galore and space for memorable entertainment moments.
For an iconic New York experience in a historically-grand venue…
This iconic music hall is also perfect for iconic events — from product launches to employee holiday parties — the space wows with dramatic views and historic grandeur.
See how this exquisite corporate dinner infused the space with moody black, red, and gold for a memorable affair.
Carnegie Hall features five event spaces which can accommodate up to 299 guests; we especially adore the Weill Music Room and its adjoining terrace.
Galley of Hollywood POP Gallery shares that Gotham Hall is, “Great for a milestone event and/or wedding. Their giant ceiling structure, plus their homage to the original iconic landmarked bank that stood there 100-plus years ago, gives this space a charm that is not easy to match. They offer great in house catering too!”
See how this glamorous FX Fosse/Verdon premiere drenched the space in red and purple lighting for added drama.
Gotham Hall boasts four spaces that can accommodate from 50 up to 900 guests for any type of event you can dream up.
For a memorable celebration in an iconic venue with stunning city views…
Galley of Hollywood POP also recommends Rainbow for memorable corporate events, saying, “Location! Location! Location! This is another great landmark venue in NYC serving classic and contemporary cuisine. If you love New York City, you’ll love this elegant and sophisticated backdrop to any grand celebration!”
See how this corporate anniversary gala conjured magic with icy blue and white styling accenting the breathtaking cityscape.
Rainbow Room features four flexible event spaces from the private dining room for 30 to the full floor buyout for up to 700.
photographer: Line 8 Photography | photo courtesy of & venue: Central Park Zoo
For exclusive access to to exhibits paired with a chic space…
Central Park Zoo boasts a sophisticated all-season tent space with a chic clear top that offers views of the sky as well as of the stunning Midtown skyline.
See how this stylish cocktail party infused the space with colorful rugs, furniture, and florals.
Central Park Zoo can entertain up to 2,000 in its Central Garden space
This 100 square-foot venue boasts custom LED screens, a large production stage, projection mapping in the hallway, and 30-foot-high ceilings. They make it easy to customize your event with your company’s branding at every turn. Three spaces on the main floor are perfect for varied activations and experiences (one is even set up for karaoke). Plus the mezzanine offers an opportunity for a VIP space.
This Myriad 360 brought the jungle inside with 12-foot trees strung with lights. A mirrored stage was the perfect spot for a live electric violinist to wow guests.
NEBULA can accommodate up to 250 guests for a seated dinner or 850 for a cocktail party.
For an responsive and helpful staff in a luxurious space…
Well-located at Fifth Avenue and Central Park, The Plaza has been in demand for New York celebrations for more than a century. With stunning ballrooms that feature historic details paired with modern amenities — thanks to recent renovations — there’s something for every size and style of wedding. Furthermore, couples rave about the hotel’s high level of service for events, noting how smoothly everything runs.
This luxurious corporate event from Make It Happen Mgmt by David Landgraf had guests toasting under the Grand Ballroom’s towering ceilings with an ever-changing lighting scheme. The 4,800 square-foot space is perfect for blow-out bashes.
The Plaza New York boasts seven spaces, with spots for intimate gatherings and sprawling spaces that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests.
For a space that can transform for any theme with branding ops galore…
Seeherman, of Hudson & Nine shares, “One of NYC’s newest venues that I’m loving right now is Lavan Midtown. The space is super flexible and has fantastic built in audio/visual production capabilities, so I can focus my energy and budget on enhanced branded design elements to really elevate and bring my client’s activation to life.”
Don’t miss seeing how we used the space to host a cocktail party for our first-ever PartySlate Summit. The space wowed our team and other industry veterans with its ability to transform with projection mapping as well as its other a/v capabilities that made it easy to both do presentations and engage guests with a DJ performance.
See our feature article dedicated to the flexibility of Lavan Midtown.
photographer: Maximum Russell | photo courtesy of & rentals: Taylor Creative Inc.
For a historic space with a unique aesthetic…
Landgraf, of Make It Happen Mgmt, shares, “The Morgan Library & Museum is not just a venue, but also a piece of New York History. The library was built by financier Pierpont Morgan, who was an important figure in American history. The combination of classical architecture, Renzo Piano’s modern design for the Gilbert Court, and a collection of rare books and artwork provides a truly unique ambiance that can elevate your story and brand for your corporate conference or event, leaving an ever-lasting impression on all your guests. With several distinct spaces that can be used for different aspects (both indoor and their outdoor gardens) of your event, from the grandeur of the East Room for large presentations or seated dinners, to the more modern, airy The Gilbert Court for receptions, and the more intimate Morgan Dining Room for smaller gatherings, breakout sessions, green rooms, or private dining rooms.”
This UAE event in the space featured stunning carved door frames, neutral sofas for gathering and towering palm trees.
For creative activations requiring multiple types of spaces…
Top corporate event planning agency Overland Entertainment recommends this chic city space. The venue boasts floor-to-ceiling windows which offer guests unobstructed skyscraper views. Conveniently located in TriBeCa, Spring Studios is more than an event space — it offers sprawling studio space and production services.
Overland Entertainment planned the iconic Tribeca Film Festival in the space, which was perfect for screening movies and hosting discussions. The team created multiple activations in the venue, with spaces for interacting and creating.
Spring Studios can accommodate up to 774 guests in eight spaces (more if you combine spaces, which is easy to do).
For a large space with tons of character and amazing projection mapping capabilities…
Behar of Rachel Behar Events says, “When sourcing a venue for a corporate client, it’s important to me to present venues that have multiple spaces. There are a ton of large corporations in NYC and many employees socialize with the people they know.” She appreciates the variety that Hall Des Lumieres offers.
Galley of Hollywood POP says of the space, “It is a beautiful and large venue filled with walls for spectacular mapping and lighting. Across from City Hall in NYC, Hall des Lumières is located in a Beaux-Arts landmarked building and is an elegant arena for weddings, corporate and not-for-profit events.”
Don’t miss PartySlate’s cocktail party hosted in the space. The party spanned two floors and went from glittering city elegant to gritty-NYC within the same venue, utilizing projection mapping and their amazing a/v systems.
photographer: Anthony Serrantonio | photo courtesy of & venue: Home Studios Inc.
For a transformable space that also boasts character and charm…
Home Studios boasts two open spaces with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, two kitchens, and a freight elevator for easy load-ins for corporate events all of types.
For delectable Italian food in a beautiful setting…
Tarallucci e Vino is an Italian mainstay that’s also a great place to host an event, with a professional event team and, of course, amazing menu options.
Tarallucci e Vino Events features six event spaces for every type of corporate event, from cocktails to conferences.
For an impressive venue with top-notch catering and options galore…
Romeo of Overland Entertainment recommends the iconic Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. It’s an art-focused venues with multiple spaces perfect for every type of corporate gathering.
See how this intimate cocktail reception to celebrate the redesign of the Hauser Patron Salon at Alice Tully Hall featured in and out of doors lounge spaces to facilitate connections.
Editor’s note: PartySlate was invited to participate in an Upscale Luncheon at the venue and we can speak firsthand to the helpfulness of the staff and how memorable the fare from in-house caterer CxRA was (our table was abuzz over the house-made crackers).
For a historic venue with modern conveniences in a great locale…
Landgraf of Make It Happen Mgmt, says, “This landmark institution is an important part of New York’s cultural fabric. As the oldest museum in New York City, the Society provides a rich historical context and significance with artifacts from New York history. It will resonate for any corporate event. The Society’s remarkable collection of art, artifacts, and documents provides an engaging walk through history. The venue offers a variety of event spaces, from the grandeur of the Dexter Hall, with its stunning Beaux-Arts architectural details, to the more intimate Smith Gallery. It also offers state-of-the-art auditoriums, perfect for presentations, meetings, or lectures.”
For a historic space that wows over-the-top detail…
The Weylin is located in the iconic Williamsburgh Savings Bank building, built in 1875 and beautifully restored. The space is spectacular with a stunning dome, mosaics, carvings, and more.
Behar of Rachel Behar Events shares, “I really love working with Weylin for corporate events.” In particular she notes that she likes venues that are “large, have multiple rooms for mingling, and are stunning.”
Make sure to see how PartySlate partnered with Vera Wang to turn the space into a unique fashion show in the round (that looked like a wedding cake from above) and experiential dinner.
Weylin can accommodate up to 1,000 guests in historic grandeur.
Elsewhere is a warehouse event venue, yes, but it also plays host to live music, art, and a nightclub scene — making it an interesting and eclectic choice for a fun corporate event.
Elsewhere features five spaces for up to 675 guests.
photographer: Marissa Alper | photo courtesy of & venue: Sunday in Brooklyn
For charming, cozy gatherings featuring delectable food…
Famed for its fare (especially its epic brunch), Sunday in Brooklyn offers a variety of experiences for your event. Consider securing a private dining room, full buy-out, or even cocktails in the rooftop garden. The the team will curate the perfect menu to wow your guests.
See how this beautiful Daye product launch dinner filled the bright space with colorful florals and swag bags. Tables displaying products and a curated photo spot rounded out the cozy gathering.
Sunday in Brooklyn can accommodate up to 150 guests for dinner parties, product launches, and interactive activations.
Situated in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, 74Wythe offers a convenient and accessible location for attendees coming from different parts of New York City. The venue features multiple event spaces that can accommodate various types of corporate events, from intimate meetings to large conferences or product launches.
Don’t miss how PartySlate hosted our own summer social in the space and it gave us ample opportunities for creative branding (see how we used each step up to our main party) and a much-needed built-in rain plan on the The Roof. Plus the staff was a dream to work with, which made everything easy.
74Wythe can accommodate up to 400 guests and boasts four spaces to choose from (or combine them like we did for a progressive party).
Industry City’s blend of flexible event spaces, modern amenities, unique ambiance, and convenient location makes it an attractive destination for hosting corporate events in NYC. It boasts a variety of event spaces ranging in size and style, from open-air courtyards to industrial-chic lofts which allows for customization to suit the specific needs and preferences of corporate gatherings.
See how this interactive brand event for Aéropostale’s fall collection filled the space with interactive displays and unique photo opportunities that showed the clothes in creative ways.
Industry City can accommodate corporate gatherings for up to 2,000 guests.
For a loft space with white walls for projections…
Immerse guests in a branded experience in this venue’s flexible blank space which features details like a full prep kitchen and high-end rentals. Centrally located in the Mott Haven District of the South Bronx, Sanfoka Haus is close to multiple bridges for easy access.
Don’t miss how this corporate holiday party bathed the space in different hues of vibrant lighting to create a party vibe.
For a fun and interactive event in an interesting setting…
Galley of Hollywood POP Gallery says, “A formal gala or a fun filled milestone barbecue, the Bronx Zoo is a great go-to place to enjoy festivities among nature. Crocodiles and sea lions can celebrate alongside you! It’s different type of New York experience that no one will forget.”
See how this corporate event gave employees a “Day Out of the Office” featuring yard games, food carts, and a picnic.
Bronx Zoo has six spaces that can accommodate up to 1,000 guests
For a wow-worthy iconic experience that guests will talk about afterwards…
Treat your guests to a private ferry to the iconic Ellis Island & Statue of Liberty for an event that also offers access to exhibits (and a photo op with the Statue of Liberty).
See how this lavish gala for Amway China used a patriotic lighting scheme ending in classic American fireworks.
Finding a skilled event planner or event agency is always a good first step in planning any event, especially a corporate event with its mix of experiential installations and branding opportunities. Whether it’s an employee gathering, product launch, dinner party, brand pop-up, or an idea-sharing summit, your planner will help you locate the best corporate event venue for your specific needs.
Next, consider the aesthetic and interaction you’d like to create. For a product launch, you might want the immersive branding opportunities of a blank warehouse or space that offers projection mapping. Whereas, for a conference, you’ll want a venue that offers multiple spaces for gathering in small groups as well as a stage or auditorium for larger presentations.
If none of the above venues meet your needs, try our venue directory and use filters to narrow down your search and find the perfect corporate event venue for your gathering.
A company anniversary is an important milestone for any business. Our favorite business anniversary ideas honor the magnitude of the occasion — while celebrating past, present, and future successes. PartySlate reached out to some of the top leaders in the corporate event world to learn more:
Wolf of Paulette Wolf Events tells us that a business anniversary party is “an excellent opportunity to remind guests of the company’s vision — while revisiting the company’s journey from its inception and sharing its direction for the future.”
She continues, “It should be remembered that the anniversary marks the continued efforts and association of the key employees, clients, customers, and stakeholders. With the absence of any one of those, organizations cannot stand.” As such, it’s important to take time to “thank employees and clients for being part of the business’s success and to celebrate the milestone.”
So where to start? Selden of Marcia Selden Catering & Events tells us, “Really get to know your clients. Create something that is completely unique to them and that will really excite them when they see it.”
Keep reading to discover 17 business anniversary ideas to commemorate an important company milestone. You’ll find everything from ways to celebrate company culture, thank guests, inspire social media sharing, and more.
Step Inside an Epic Corporate Anniversary Party
video courtesy of: Paulette Wolf Events
1. Create a Check-In Station
Give your guests the VIP treatment with a curated check-in station. This is a perfect time to hand out any important materials — such as agendas, event maps, or thoughtful messages. For example, PartySlate welcomed guests to their own employee event with personalized awards for each team member. It was the perfect way to set the tone of the event and make everyone feel appreciated.
See below how TravelStore greeted it’s 40th anniversary guests with a very on-theme check-in.
photographer: Callaway Gable | planner: Bob Gail Events | décor: Revelry Event Designers | venue: The Beverly Hills Hotel
2. Add a Dramatic Entrance
Set the mood of the event with a dramatic entrance that transitions guests from the ordinary to the extraordinary in the blink of an eye. Make it interactive with a photo op right at the entrance of your celebration. You can also create an Instagram-worthy moment with a dramatic backdrop or installation that has guests reaching for their cameras.
See below how PartySlate had paparazzi on hand to make arriving guests feel like a star, while Hemmerle created an Instagrammable moment with candles.
Party themes are a cohesive way to tie the disparate elements of your celebration together. Think of your event theme as the hub of a wheel. Spokes will include everything from décor and entertainment to party favors and photo ops. Even catering can benefit from a creative party theme.
Selden of Marcia Selden Catering and Events tells us, “When we approach an event, we really try to dig into the theme and create culinary moments that continue to surprise our guests throughout the event.” She goes on to say, “We look at it like a Broadway show where there is a beginning, middle, and end to an act — and we plan to have those moments unfold accordingly. What’s fun is that there are always two acts, so we continue to have culinary activations or special surprises at each one. It keeps the guests excited and engaged and wanting for more.”
Take your cue from Marcia Selden Catering and Events, and build momentum around your party theme with surprise moments and curated décor (and catering) that evolves from one act to the next.
See below how Marcia Selden Catering & Events carried the red color palette from The Annual Love Party over to the smallest bites, while LikeToKnowIt celebrated with a tennis-themed anniversary party that elevated the sport at every turn.
4. Celebrate Company Culture With a Museum Wall, Video, or Signage
A business anniversary isn’t just another corporate event. It’s a time to celebrate your company and the incredible people who make up your team. We recommend shining a spotlight on your company’s culture or founding story — as well as taking time to honor the human element of your business.
Wolf of Paulette Wolf Events suggests ”creating a video to share at the party that encompasses the personality of the company and its leadership.” She adds, “Another option is to create museum walls like you would see at The Smithsonian — and share the rich history and legacy of the company.”
See below how PEAK6 used company faces to complement the décor, while Emmanuel College honored their company story with a video wall. Nicole Guilmartin Events created a celebratory callout for Agero with a full “page” in The Boston Globe.
When it comes to branding, it’s important to think outside the box. In addition to traditional print and signage, consider alternative ways to promote your brand. Create Instagram-worthy moments to encourage guests to share their photos on social media, thereby increasing your brand awareness beyond the celebration.
Wolf of Paulette Wolf Events relays some of her favorite unique branding ideas that she’s incorporated throughout anniversary events over the years:
Custom gobos
Branded cocktails
Stamped ice
Branded pillows
Photo mosaics
Pops of company colors throughout the space
Custom microsites or event apps
Special event hashtags
Custom Snapchats or AR filters
Drone shows
Finger smears
QR codes to take guests on journey throughout the event
See below how Slack kept the party fun and colorful with branded cocktails and bowling, while Social Llama Events reflected their brand on a unique backdrop of corrugated steel.
photographer: Scott Clark Photo | Twenty Three Layers (23 Layers)
Create team bonding with immersive activities at your business anniversary party. You can even increase the chance of a little friendly competition by offering curated prizes such as branded swag. While your guests will certainly take snapshots of their own, make sure to hire a professional photographer to best capture the moment in action.
See below how Fields Auto Group engaged guests with casino activities, while PEAK6 wowed guests with a carnival basketball game and The Watermill Group impressed with larger-than-life checkers.
photo courtesy of: Chicago Casino Suppliers | 1440 Event Design
In addition to a sit-down dinner, set aside time for a cocktail hour with passed bites. This is the perfect chance for guests to reconnect with team members and associates from other departments.
Enlist the help of service staff and offer tray service to bring delectable bites straight to your guests. You can also host catering stations where guests can select the small bites of their choice. After all, food stations are one more opportunity to wow with curated décor.
See below how one anniversary party kept guests satiated with Hawaiian treats, while another experiential activation dazzled guests with passed sushi bites. We also love how a farm-to-table employee appreciation event engaged all of our senses with miniature tacos served on slices of lime.
photographer: Julia Franzosa Photography | NSWE Events | Entertaining Company
Make space for meaningful conversations with a formal sit-down dinner. Utilize this time to feature introductions, toasts, and short speeches. Make sure to prioritize the look of your tablescape as much as the cuisine. Beautiful tablescapes will ensure a picture-perfect event space. Tablescapes also set the mood of the celebration — so keep design in mind at all times.
See below how VM 35 wowed with a bold purple color palette and sleek modern seating, while Major Food Group kept things just as lavish with luxe crimson floral décor. Bishop T.D. Jakes beckoned guests to their seats with a soft, Parisian aesthetic, while a 25th corporate anniversary party took our breaths away with neon tablescapes and glittering candlelight.
9. Showcase Food That Gets Guests Talking (and Posting)
Every chef knows that food can be a work of art. Work with your corporate catering team to offer delicious and innovative cuisine that piques guests’ interests. While there’s no limits to the imagination, we especially embrace cocktails that double as satiating snacks. Some of our other favorite unique cuisine ideas include:
photographer: Phillip Van Nostrand Photography | Entertaining Company
Food Carts
photographer: Afrik Armando | Dolce & Gelato Catering Inc.
Unique Plating
photographer: Sensory-Focused | 24 Carrots Catering and Events
Deconstructed Dishes
photographer: Dennis Lee Photography | Beyond Catering & Events
Sensory-Focused
photographer: Fred Marcus Studio | Muddling Memories
Self-Serve Wall
photographer: Cameron Clark Photography | M Culinary Concepts
Branded Cocktails
photographer: Cameron Clark Photography | Couple of Bartenders
Lush Botanicals
photo courtesy of: Native Cocktail Events
10. Make it Immersive With Interactive Catering
As kids, we were often told to sit down while we eat. While we agree that the advice is still sound, we’re willing to make an exception when it comes to celebrations. We love unique catering ideas that get guests on the move and interacting with the people around them.
Selden of Marcia Selden Catering & Events tells us, “When these creative culinary moments or activations arrive, they need to evoke joy, surprise, and delight, spark a nostalgic memory, or just blow the guests’ minds — as it was so unexpected and special. In doing so, you are guaranteed to create memorable moments.”
See below how Sing for Hope created an unforgettable experience with limbo-style passed apps, while Pearlstone got guests mingling with an interactive s’mores station. We also love how Marcia Selden Catering & Events creates the ultimate Instagrammable moment with an overflowing Champagne tower.
photographer: Clane Gessel Photography | David Beahm Experiences
video courtesy of: Marcia Selden Catering & Events
11. Up the Entertainment Factor With Live Music
With multiple bands in his entertainment empire, Chaimson of Gold Coast Events knows how to liven up the party. “Live music puts an electricity in the air that’s just different,” he tells us. “It is the feeling that something special is taking place at this specific moment in time. It makes it feel like the anniversary is truly worthy of a celebration.” Of course, we couldn’t agree more. Prioritize hiring a live band for an unforgettable anniversary party.
See below how a 25th corporate anniversary party and Radio Flyer’s 100th anniversary event celebrated with show-stopping live music. We also love how many of Chaimson’s own bands performed at The Gold Coast All Stars’s anniversary, turning the party into an unforgettable rock concert.
photographer: Solei Media | Jennifer Anderson Events | Cagen Music LLC
Make sure you have ample space for a dance floor to go with your live music. Consider your dance floor a blank canvas to reflect your party décor, brand colors, or even a tasteful company logo. Work with your rental company to design your perfect dance floor.
See below how TravelStore and Celebrations of Love created the perfect spot for guests to dance the night away.
photographer: Callaway Gable | Bob Gail Events | Bob Gail Music | HOLO-WALLS LLC
Unique entertainment promises to take your celebration to the next level. Consider everything from a celebrity performer and LED robots to an acrobatic dance number.
PartySlate knows the power of unique entertainment acts. See below how Cirque Berzerk Productions helped make PartySlate’s 7-year anniversary party an unforgettable event with a drag queen host, a fire dancer, and a custom group acro/dance number that they specifically created for the party. As expected, guests were engaged from start to finish.
Also see how NSWE celebrated their anniversary with an LED robot performance and PEAK6 celebrated with a riveting performance by Bruno Mars.
photographer: Phillip Van Nostrand Photography | NSWE Events | DJ Akib
A party’s not a party without a good photo op. Photo ops provide a picture-perfect backdrop for your event. They encourage social sharing and create the perfect opportunity for a company-wide photo, as well. Make sure to have a professional photographer onsite to capture the fun. We also love a good selfie booth for an instant retrieval of your photos.
See below how Premiere Party Rents matched their photo booth to the party aesthetic, while Beautique Day Spa & Salon kept their photo op on theme for their event. We also love how PartySlate’s 4th anniversary party turned a regular photo op into a fun, photo-worthy activity.
photographer: Jenny Quicksall Photography | Premiere Party Rents | LA Photo Party
Every year that your company continues to grow and prosper is a milestone worth celebrating. It’s also the time to reflect on the past year and inspire guests for the year ahead. Consider incorporating an inspiring message into a beautiful photo op. We also love the idea of guests creating signage of their own with hand-written messages.
See below how NSWE inspired guests with thoughtful signage, while Social Llama Events invited guests to leave a beautiful note to commemorate the celebration.
photographer: Phillip Van Nostrand Photography | NSWE Events | David Kimmel Design | Yanni Design Studio
Your teammates, associates, and investors work hard. Show your appreciation with thoughtful party favors. We love how branded swag also doubles as additional marketing. More eyes on your brand equate to more potential customers.
One of our favorite ways to display swag is with a pop-up shop. You might also want to consider using personalized cubbies or an interactive rotating belt.
See below how LikeToKnowIt used a pop up shop to display thoughtful party favors in a fun, on-theme setting.
photo courtesy of & planner: Social Llama Rentals
17. Curate a Celebratory Moment
A company is only as strong as the people involved — whether that’s employees, customers, or business associates. Make you take a moment to celebrate the people behind the brand with a curated celebratory moment.
See below how Social Llama Events celebrated the company’s anniversary (and its staff) with a confetti drop on the dance floor.
photographer: Michelle Rice Photography | Social Llama Events
People Also Ask…
Where can I find a venue for my business anniversary party?
Choosing the right venue is one of the first steps on a long to-do list. Head to PartySlate’s curated venue directory to find the perfect match. Use the filters to narrow your search by location, venue type, amenities, guest count, and more.
Click into their PartySlate profile to see how a venue is configured for real celebrations. You’ll also discover important FAQS, testimonials, and other important details.
Remember, venues book up fast. Make sure to prioritize finding a venue as soon as you set the date of your celebration.
Where can I find vendors for my company anniversary party?
PartySlate can also connect you with the top corporate vendors in the industry. Use the vendor directory to find our favorite vendors. Filter by vendor type and location for the best results.
Again, make sure to click a preferred vendor’s PartySlate profile to see real examples of their work. Save any of your favorite photos to an Idea Slate by clicking the heart in the top right corner. You can share these same photos with your chosen vendors.
Pro tip: Always start by finalizing your corporate planner. This will shorten your to-do list, as your planner will be able to facilitate the planning process, make vetted recommendations, and offer additional inspiration.
When assembling your list of vendors, don’t forget to prioritize hiring a photographer. Wolf of Paulette Wolf Events tells companies, “It’s important to take wise steps to publicize the anniversary on social media.” For that, you’ll want professional, high-resolution photos.
Where can I find more inspiration for a corporate event?
PartySlate is your go-to resource for party inspiration — be it a wedding, social party, gala, or corporate event. Click on the following to find the best corporate inspiration for your business anniversary party:
Who says work can’t be fun? At PartySlate, we know all about having a good time — and that includes using the most creative corporate event ideas. Whether you’re hosting a future holiday party for employees, product launch, or educational conference; engaging activities bring people together.
So how do you make corporate events fun? Keep reading to see how everything from entertainment to photo ops and party favors can become an interactive activity. Even dining can turn into an experiential event with the right type of planning.
Best of all, we share how PartySlate can help you create a one-of-a-kind celebration — while finding the best venue and vendors for the occasion. Trust us, with these interactive corporate event ideas, work is about to get a lot more fun.
Your brand colors are one the most recognizable components of your brand, so curate your celebration with color in mind. This Reddit IPO celebration wowed with the platform’s iconic red-orange hues. We love how the fresh fruit juice and savory orange cones, courtesy of Foxtail Catering & Events, kept the color theme going in full force.
You probably spend a lot of time on your laptop. Guests at this Dick’s Sporting Goods Campaign Launch did too — but with a twist. Mindy Weiss Party Consultants set the scene for a spectacular event with a larger-than-life laptop that doubled as both dance floor and stage. Revelry Event Designers perfected the look with a custom (and perfectly on-theme) chandelier.
An agenda is a must-have for any business meeting, conference, or multi-day corporate event. Make sure your guests always have access to essential timelines with wall-sized agendas that double as fun photo ops — like at this Forter Impact conference, designed by Twenty Three Layers (23 Layers).
Take arcade games to the next level with a human claw machine. Interactive Entertainment Group tells us it’s their most popular product, and we can see why. Businesses can even turn prizes into a branding opportunity with custom packaging. Make sure to see how Ben & Jerry’s hid prizes amongst a sea of “caramel cookie fix” and “chocolate milk & cookies.”
Whether you’re looking to throw an epic 80s-themed bash or just increase the entertainment factor, skee ball is bound to captivate your audience. For even more wow-worthy corporate entertainment, check out the LED dance floor and show-stopping band performance by Total Entertainment.
Give guests their 15 minutes of fame with a typewriter for hire. From poetry to short biographies, there’s nothing like the power of language to bring people together. Of course, make sure you check out the other Instagram-worthy details from this corporate holiday party by Twenty Three Layers (23 Layers).
Give your employees an escape from the hustle and bustle of their daily work grind with a virtual reality game. We especially love how Axelrod Consulting gave attendants an engaging reality to return to with a juggling act and a pop-maverick trumpeter. Click to see.
Host your corporate event at a museum or gallery space so guests can enjoy visiting the different exhibits — and learning a thing or two in the process. We love how this corporate party, set at Chicago’s renowned Field Museum, spanned multiple exhibit rooms. Who wouldn’t want to party with Sue the Dinosaur before rubbing elbows with some flying pterosaurs?
Don’t leave something as important as networking to chance. Modern Party Co planned this AI-powered event for Zeta Global with an AI chat bot that identified like-minded peers to seek out for conversation. Guests had plenty of opportunities do just that at the elegant lounge areas and tented seating. Make sure to also check out the colorful floral arrangements (perfectly on brand) by The Floral Eclectic.
Give back with a thoughtful activity that benefits communities in need. KEHOE DESIGNS wowed guests at this colorful corporate event with a spectacular “Lend a Hand” station that incorporated punny décor and eye-catching signage. See how the celebration continued with a trivia booth, glam lounge vignettes, and an enticing swag station.
Turn conservations with your coworkers into lifelong memories with a lounge area that doubles as a beautiful photo op. Make sure to hire a premier design & floral company, like B Floral Event Design and Production, to create your Instagrammable setting. We guarantee that guests will want to socialize all night long.
Give your selfies a more professional look with a selfie station. Best of all, you can use the photo booth as a branding opportunity for your company. Make sure to see how this selfie station perfectly matched the color and branding scheme throughout the corporate event planned by Twenty Three Layers (23 Layers).
Make your celebration go viral with an onsite TikTok booth by SpotMyPhotos. Guests will love taking their networking skills to the next, social level. See how this dynamic corporate event wowed at every turn with a unique bar setup, neon photo ops, and theatrical performances. Going to work has never been so much fun.
Is it really a photo booth without fun props and accessories? Give your guests unique props to pose with for the ultimate company photo. You can also discover other ways to elevate your corporate event from this summer picnic event, planned by Honey & Lavender Events. Between a vintage camper-turned-bar to a cozy picnic area, there’s no shortage of summer inspiration.
Getting your photo taken just became a whole lot more fun with this active 360-degree photo booth. Make sure to see other engaging details at this luxe corporate holiday party — including the savory bites and branded sips by Pausmith Group.
Need to make your event virtual to accommodate out-of-town employees? Luckily, a caterer like This Messy Table LA will ensure that everyone feels connected with a doorstep delivery. We especially love how these grazing boxes make guests feel like they’re enjoying passed appetizers at a cocktail hour — all from the comfort of home.
Forget the saying, “Don’t play with your dinner.” Dining is about to get a lot more fun with engaging catering activations by Joy Wallace Catering. We are obsessed with this corporate event that featured everything from fishing for clam gnocchi to a washing machine bar station. Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Make sure to see the PAC-MAN dance floor and mechanical unicorns.
Take your meal to the next level with wine pairings. Wine pairings create an instant conversation starter for guests gathered around the table. We also love how each menu at this intimate winery dinner, planned by Cassie LaMere Events, featured custom-made leather details. Make sure to see the artisan live at work.
Hotels offer numerous advantages for corporate event hosts — such as convenient locations, onsite room blocks, and elevated dining experiences. Check out how this travel agent FAM trip used Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans’s private dining space to network over a delectable meal.
Guests enjoyed a collective “wow” moment with these smoky cocktails by Well Dunn Catering. Other delightful sips at this corporate awards dinner included cocktails with edible ink printing and branded ice cubes.
This colorful brand activation featured creative sliders to match by Hedrick’s Catering & Events. Guests enjoyed perfectly pink cocktails and cotton candy, as well.
Biscuits & Berries Catering kept guests satiated and entertained with a liquid ice cream nitrogen station and hanging desserts. Make sure to see how the savory bites, like the house-cut signature fries, were just as appetizing.
Turn your party favors into an immersive activity. We love how guests had the opportunity to design their own lunch boxes at this Back-to-School event, planned by Sterling Social Events & Experiences. Make sure to see the unique photo ops found throughout the party. We especially love the 3D Amazon wall.
Guests received far more than a relaxing yoga session at this rooftop event at Pendry Chicago. We love how each guest found a personal cooler filled with essential refreshments by their yoga mat. Even better, the party favors matched the bright and cheerful color scheme of the mats and balloon backdrop.
Show employee appreciate with a fun-filled family picnic — and thoughtful party favors. Hollywood POP Gallery planned this summer barbecue for Blue Owl with chic picnic baskets laden with all the summer party essentials (like branded lawn games and picnic blankets).
Thanks to Scentex, guests at this corporate event had the opportunity to learn how to blend note to create their own custom reed diffusers. The best part? This immersive workshop resulted in the perfect take-home gift.
Use PartySlate’s curated directory to find an available venue for your next corporate event. Make sure to use the filters to narrow your search by city, guest count, and amenities. Click on the profile of your preferred venue to learn more.
Where Can I Find Vendors for a Corporate Event?
PartySlate can also connect you with top local vendors for your corporate bash. Click here to find everything from event agencies and design teams to caterers and entertainment. Don’t forget to use the side filters to narrow your search by location, services, and more.
So much goes into planning a memorable occasion that achieves your business goals. While corporate event types may differ, the need for exceptional corporate event catering remains constant. Whether your gathering targets life-long customers, new consumers, valued colleagues, or potential business partners, it’s essential to keep guests engaged with thoughtful bites and sips. It’s also ripe with creative branding opportunities.
PartySlate reached out to some of the top corporate event caterers in the country for an inside look into this must-have event component. These industry experts reveal how to leverage catering at your next business gathering. They share need-to-know tips on how to find the right caterer and curate an unforgettable celebration centered around your brand.
Events bring people together, strengthen bonds, and provide tailored experiences for company milestones. They also show appreciation for employees and encourage networking across industries to build a vibrant community. -- Jodi Fyfe, Owner of Paramount Events
Capitalize on these 15 event catering tips that promise to take your event to the next level. Best of all, we’ve made it easy to reach out to our contributing caterers with just the click of a button — so you can start planning your business event today.
But First, See How Event Catering Elevated This Rooftop Celebration
Corporate events are an extension of your company’s marketing strategy. As such, every corporate event should have a clearly defined, measurable goal behind it — be it increasing brand awareness or increasing annual revenue.
Many positive outcomes come from company events. These moments can be harnessed to boost brand representation, meet business goals, shape culture, and reinforce values. -- Jodi Fyfe, Owner of Paramount Events
Many elements go into achieving this goal — including the menu. For Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning, “The objective is to consistently grasp the event’s expectations and purpose, whether they involve education, integration, sales, or organizational aspects.” Owner Viola Benarek, goes on to say, “Aligning with these goals enables us to make appropriate choices regarding food and beverage selections, timing, dietary restrictions, and any other necessary accommodations.”
Rob Pausmith, Founder of Pausmith Group, shares some examples of how these choices are made. He tells us, “If you’re hosting a high-end charity donor event, our menu will reflect luxury food and beverage pairings. If you’re planning a fun employee-appreciation holiday party, our menu will reflect unique and whimsical offerings that will delight each guest.”
Whether you’re looking to attract new consumers or retain employee talent, you want people to have a positive experience with your brand. Talented marketing departments use storytelling to elevate brand awareness — and caterers do, too.
Pausmith of Pausmith Group, shares, “We believe that food tells a story. What better conduit to bring conversation and connection to a group of people than food and beverage?” For Jodi Fyfe, Owner, Paramount Events, that story is told through personalization, with a focus on “seamlessly integrating branding elements into the event structure.”
Each customer interaction with your brand influences their overall experience. -- Marc Weber, CEO & Founder, ONTHEMARC Events
Abbie Prince, Account Executive at Abigail Kirsch Catering, says, “Be creative when it comes to ‘special touches and details’ throughout the event. Whether it’s branded napkins at the bar, a to-go logo cookie, chocolate disc on the dessert that has the company name, a themed specialty cocktail, a fun interactive food station, or brand colors through linen and flowers, etc.”
Check out some of our favorite ways to introduce guests to your brand — or keep them excited about your product.
Caroline Stoeckel, Director of Sales and Marketing at M Culinary Concepts tells us, “Tailored menus can reinforce specific messages and themes related to your products, services, or corporate culture. Some caterers can even incorporate subtle brand elements, from logo-inspired desserts to signature dishes reflecting your company’s origins.”
Juan Hernandez, Owner of Delivering Experiences, tells us that “caterers can also design food items using their corporate colors or shapes in the food that will be served to reflect their brand identity. ” Marissa D’Angelo, Marketing Director at Gourmet Caterers, adds, “Branding can even be printed directly onto house-made pastries and edible cocktail toppers!” See how PartySlate’s celestial-themed cocktail party took branding to new heights with creative menus and on-theme details.
Packaging & Signage
photographer: photographer: Daniel Serrette | posted by & caterer: Delivering Experiences
D’Angelo of Gourmet Caterers tells us, “We love finding ways to include company logos and colors throughout food packaging and station signage.” Hernandez of Delivering Experiences also recommends using coffee cups and food boxes as a fun branding moment, like these monogramed personal-size pizza boxes that perfectly captures the MWL aesthetic for Bridal Fashion Week.
Corporate events — and events in general — are all about bringing people together. Whether you opt for a sit-down dinner or passed apps, you’ll find that devoting part of your event schedule to a culinary experience leads to new networking opportunities. It also leads to more branding possibilities. Marc Weber, CEO & Founder of ONTHEMARC Events, tells us that “branding trays and uniforms with a theme or logo is highly effective,” and we couldn’t agree more. See how PartySlate’s “Little Prince”-themed networking event immersed guests into this whimsical world with on-theme, perfectly branded catering.
Your company’s values are an extension of your brand. Morever, the data collected by CivicScience, a consumer analytics platform, suggests that over 50% of consumers would switch to brand that shared their values.
Make sure your customers, business associates, and employees have the chance to connect with your mission statement and learn more about your company’s values by hiring a compatible catering team. As Weber of ONTHEMARC Events tells us, “The food served at corporate events directly reflects the ethos and brand of the company hosting them.” For example, Prince of Abigail Kirsch Catering tells us, “Conservation and energy companies probably don’t want to go heavy on the red meat and will be more vegetarian focused.”
The first step to ensuring menu diversity is selecting a caterer that has a food philosophy aligned with the company’s values. -- Danielle Shapiro, Regional Director of Sales at Abigail Kirsch Catering
Fyfe of Paramount Events tells us to start with “selecting a caterer that aligns with your company values.” She adds, “Companies also have the opportunity to highlight and build credibility around their values by emphasizing their commitment to sustainability and diversity.” Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts agrees. “Collaborate with your caterer to craft a memorable culinary journey that aligns perfectly with your company’s values and image. From the exquisite menu selections to the flawless presentation and impeccable service, every detail will exude your brand’s unique personality.”
If hiring a minority-owned business is important to you, head to our Corporate Caterers Near Me directory page and filter for businesses owned by diverse individuals. From there, you can click into their PartySlate profile to see real examples of their work and learn more about their business.
*For more inspiration on how catering can reflect your company values, check out the video above, and see how M Culinary Catering routinely partners with Waste Not Food Rescue to donate any leftover catering to people in need.
Despite the plethora of US companies (according to Forbes Adviser, there are over 33 million businesses in the United States), corporate event hosts often lack helpful resources for planning their business gatherings. As such, it may be tempting to draw ideas from the wedding industry. That, however, is a mistake — especially when it comes to event catering.
Pausmith of Pausmith Group tells us, “A wedding menu usually reflects the tastes and preferences of the couple, while a corporate menu reflects the guests that will be in attendance. Both menus will tell a different story: One is about the two people you’ve gathered to celebrate, while the other is about celebrating the people you’ve invited.”
Erica Fredericks, Senior Account Executive of Abigail Kirsch Catering, agrees. “In today’s economic climate, perception and guest experience is a driving force for creating menus.”
As D’Angelo of Gourmet Caterers eloquently reminds us, “There’s an old saying, ‘The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach.’ This is absolutely true, even for a business. If you want to create a memorable moment for your client, entertain them. Exceptional catering and hospitality experiences can be included anywhere, from multi-day executive meetings in boardrooms, to global expos with thousands of clientele in attendance.”
Look for menus that are crowd pleasers — while keeping in mind allergies, food restrictions, and the culture of the attendees - Juan Hernandez, Owner of Delivering Experiences
When you meet with your caterer, come prepared with a general gist of your guests’ culinary preferences. Danielle Shapiro, Regional Director of Sales at Abigail Kirsch Catering, says, “We encourage our clients to survey their audience to better understand any specific needs.” Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning also emphasizes the importance of “catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of attendees from around the globe.”
Of course, the breadth of choices is only one part of the equation. Shapiro of Abigail Kirsch Catering reminds us that “Offering a range of choices is not enough. The upmost care must be taken in mindfulness of ingredients, food preparation, and transparent food labeling.”
We’ve all been in a meeting when our stomachs start to growl and our mind starts to wander. Keep engagement high (and hanger at a minimum) with an assortment of bites and sips offered throughout your event. Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning says, “Certain corporate meetings require curated breakfasts, lunches, and refreshments that need to be designed and prepared to energize participants and enhance the effectiveness of the meetings.” Of course, even corporate holiday parties and other less-educational events can benefit from culinary pick-me-ups.
See below how event agency Twenty Three Layers (23 Layers) leveraged their catering program to keep guests energized and engaged. The best part? All of these catering moments double as perfect branding opportunities.
Every aspect of your corporate event should facilitate guest connection. As Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts says, “Corporate events prioritize sophistication and seamless execution, ensuring guests can network and discuss business with ease.”
Different corporate events serve different purposes, so it’s important to remember your unique business goals when finalizing your menu. Fyfe of Paramount Events says, “Through collaborations, we adapt to various event styles, offering options from plated dinners to cocktail-style events, all aligned with the client’s agenda and timeline. This may include networking sessions, panels, presentations, awards ceremonies, and creating a cohesive event plan that integrates all aspects of exceptional hospitality.”
Viola’s Kitchen suggests offering butler-style appetizers bursting with flavor and visual appeal, complemented by self-serve food stations for the convenience of the guest. - Violeta Bednarek, Owner of Viola's Kitchen Catering & Event Planning
For all-day events or celebrations that don’t include a seated dinner, you may want to consider fare that facilitates flexibility. Weber of ONTHEMARC Events says, “Practically speaking, corporate events often feature streamlined menus with easy-to-eat options like small bites, stations, and to-go items that emphasize convenience and efficiency for networking and business interactions.”
Of course, practical doesn’t have to mean boring. Stoeckel reminds us that fare should be “presented in a way that facilitates conversation without sacrificing appetizing appeal. Think beautifully presented finger foods in a buffet line or plated entrees that are easy to navigate during a busy schedule.
Presentation is always important, but there is no substitute for quality ingredients. Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning tells us, “We believe in a simplicity of preparation that, when combined with unprocessed ingredients, provides healthy and nutritious meals to be remembered by all.” We couldn’t agree more.
One of our favorite corporate event trends includes a fresh take on traditional crudité. You can also click below to see how some of our favorite passed apps are going green — and getting guests talking.
Having catered an innumerable number of corporate events over the years, Fyfe of Paramount Events can safely say that “corporate events will often have thematic elements.” Party themes are a great way to tie the disparate elements of your celebration together — all while immersing guests into a celebratory experience.
You might assume that catering would be exempt from a theme’s influence. After all, food is food. However, experienced caterers know how to reflect a party motif through everything from sips to bites. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences also reminds us that caterers can use “napkins or other food service items like our mini pizza or slider boxes to reflect a theme.”
Not sure how to find the prefect event theme to keep guests engaged? PartySlate has you covered. Search our 15 Best Corporate Party Themes that prove work and fun can easily go hand-in-hand.
9. Create an Inclusive Menu
photographer: Stefen Ross Photography | photo posted by caterer: Pausmith Group
As the workforce becomes more diverse, so must our catering offerings. Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning invites businesses to rethink traditional event menus. “In the modern culinary world,” she says, “catering to individual tastes, preferences, and dietary restrictions presents both a challenge and an exhilarating opportunity.”
We place a strong emphasis on accommodating a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions from the initial menu planning to the final product. -Marc Weber, CEO & Founder of ONTHEMARC Events
Business leaders should capitalize on this new outlook by having an open and honest conversation with their event caterer. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences says, “Companies should schedule a menu consultation session with the caterer to curate a menu that suits all the guests.” Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts adds, “By discussing your guests’ needs in advance, we can customize the menu to be inclusive and delectable for all.”
Communication with your caterer is absolutely the key -Rob Pausmith, Founder of Pausmith Group
So what talking points should you make sure to cover during this menu consultation? Fyfe of Paramount Events advises guests to share essential demographic information. That way, in addition to creating an inclusive menu, the caterer can “incorporate additional elements, such as menu indicators or seat assignments, to ensure everyone is well cared for.”
Inclusive menus accommodate for both diverse dietary preferences and diverse dietary needs. Make sure your corporate event menu caters to the following:
Offer a variety of food choices to make sure there is something for everyone. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences says, “We usually recommend having options of beef, chicken, seafood, a few vegan options, and a couple of sweet options so that the client will cover all the guests’ palates.” This is especially important when doing passed apps and guests don’t have the option to preselect their meal choice.
If there’s one section of this guide that you read closely, make sure it’s this one. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, about 20 million people had food allergies in the U.S in 2021. That number has only increased in the subsequent years. Keeping your guests safe should be your number-one priority. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences says, “We label all food items using napkins and menu cards for the food stations.”
Remember, dietary restrictions go beyond just allergies. They can also include lifestyle choices. Prince of Abigail Kirsch Catering informs us, “Guests who maintain gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, vegetarian diets are more popularly seen at events these days than in the past.”
Pausmith of Pausmith Group says, “In our initial conversations with the client, we discuss how big of a factor dietary restrictions are and how heavily they need to be accommodated (for example, should the entire menu be vegan, or should we ensure that there are at least 3 items that are vegan without revolving the entire menu around that?). This helps us create a menu from the start that’s built around your needs, rather than creating a menu and then making swaps and adjustments after the fact to accommodate dietary restrictions.”
“We love food station style menus for this reason,” D’Angelo of Gourmet Caterers says. “With visibly labeled buffet options, guests are able to choose exactly what they want to eat. Separating proteins from starch and vegetable offerings helps with this also. Leaving various condiment options to the side is also a great tip to ensure all guests can customize their dishes according to their own dietary needs or preferences.”
Lastly, remember to be mindful of any cultural dietary restrictions. Fredericks of Abigail Kirsch Catering tells clients, “Work with a caterer who understands how holidays and certain cultural times can impact a menu. For example, tweak a menu during Passover to include matzah for a bread pass or have extra kosher meals on hand. Know when the sun sets during Ramadan, and how can we shift service.”
10. Satiate Guests With Custom Sips
photographer: Jonathan Bishop | photo posted by caterer: Mannya Bar Services
No event menu is complete without a dedicated beverage package. Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts says, “Beverage preferences are a key element. Do you envision a curated selection of fine wines and handcrafted cocktails, or perhaps a range of premium non-alcoholic options? With the right information, the partnership between your company and the corporate caterer will be more successful.”
If you plan on serving alcoholic beverages, make sure you include non-alcoholic options for those who choose not to imbibe. According to many of the top caterers in the country, dedicated mocktail bars are trending this year. Michael Stavros, Partner and VP of Business Development at M Culinary Concepts tells us, “What started as ‘Dry January’ a few years ago is evolving into year-round reductions in alcohol consumption, especially among Millennial and Gen Z consumers.”
Another beverage-focused trend taking over the corporate world is the idea of “Surprise and Delight Sips.” This could include having to “knock” on a mini window for a glass of tequila or ring a bell for a flute of Champagne.
Lastly, make sure to offer caffeine-free options with any coffee service. In addition to decaf coffee, we recommend providing a selection herbal teas or smoothies for a healthy pick-me-up.
11. Consider the Scope of the Event & Other Logistics
So much goes into planning a successful event. Knowing the scope of your event in advance will help both your corporate event planner and caterer execute a seamless celebration.
Venue, event date, timing of event, guest count, and budget are all important aspects that go hand in hand with event planning. - Marissa D'Angelo, Marketing Director at Gourmet Caterers
This has never been more true than now. Weber of ONTHEMARC Events says, “As lead times for parties shorten, we’re seeing more last-minute inquiries that require quick turnarounds. Having all the necessary information from the initial conversation streamlines the entire process, making it fast and efficient.”
Come prepared to the initial consultation with your caterer by knowing the following logistical points. We recommend writing the information down on a sheet of paper in addition to any email communication, so you can easily reference the material during the conversation.
Your guest count will determine everything from your venue choice to your catering needs. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences reminds us, “Guest counts at corporate events tend to be higher than weddings or other social celebrations that are more intimate.”
Remember, your guest count will not only determine how much food needs to be served, but it will also affect staffing numbers, dinnerware rental amounts, and serving flow.
Don’t let the location details fall off your radar. According to Pausmith of Pausmith Group, “Knowing the location of the event helps us understand details like travel time for our team, staffing needs, and more.”
Your venue choice is just as important. Each venue has its own vendor requirements, food regulations, loading dock rules, and rental availability. The more details you can share with your caterer in advance, the more your caterer will be able to curate a strategic catering plan for your corporate event.
Knowing your budget in advance will save you and your vendors both time and money. Pausmith of Pausmith Group says, “We need to know your projected budget. We want to work with you in the scope of your budget, so having this information up front allows us to set parameters in the beginning to allow for a successful collaboration.”
Prince of Abigail Kirsch Catering agrees. “Communicating the scope of the event from beginning to end will help the caterer when discussing budget and overall pricing. It’s then the caterer’s job and responsibility to accurately quote the business on what a realistic budget would look like, based on the guest count, venue, length of event, and menu.”
At PartySlate, we always say, a great event starts with a great event planner. In addition to planning and producing the event, your planner will be the main touch point for all of your vendor communication.
As Pausmith of Pausmith Group says, “We need to know who your planner/coordinator/point of contact is for coordinating details. It’s crucial for our team to have one key person to discuss ideas, deadlines, and to-do’s with — both to streamline processes for our sake and for the client.”
PartySlate makes it easy to find a talented local or destination corporate event planner. Click into our curated vendor directory and use the filters to narrow your search by location, services, and more. Look for the “featured tags” to learn more about PartySlate’s top picks, and make sure to click into a planner’s PartySlate profile to see real examples of their work. From there, you can send and inquiry through the directory or their profile page.
Even at the early stages, it’s crucial to have a general idea of your timeline (your corporate event planner will be able to help with this). Pausmith of Pausmith group shares, “Having a timeline is crucial for a caterer to understand the flow of the event.”
Fyfe of Paramount Events gets down to the specifics. “A timeline outlining core event elements — such as presentations, awards ceremonies, or demonstrations — aids us in effectively planning service times. Providing an estimated guest count helps determine food and staffing needs, enabling us to accommodate dietary preferences, cultural considerations, and tastes.”
When it comes to creating a memorable culinary experience for your corporate event, food is only part of the equation. A meal can’t occur without the proper serveware or tablescape items needed for food presentation and consumption.
Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts shares, “Understanding your preferred service style allows a seamless experience. Are you envisioning an elegant plated dinner or a sophisticated grazing table? Either way, be sure to mention any rental needs — from exquisite china and linen to stylish tables and chairs — so your caterer can create a visually stunning ambiance that reflects your brand.”
Many all-inclusive venues like hotels provide their own serveware items, so make sure to check in with your venue coordinator before outsourcing any rental needs. There’s also a chance your caterer may have their own inventory. However, if you do need to find an experienced corporate rental company, you can head to PartySlate’s curated vendor directory. Look to the “featured” tags for vetted business that PartySlate routinely recommends.
Before you commit to your menu selection, make sure to check with your venue for any catering restrictions or licensing needs. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences always tells his clients to “become familiar with the venue,” as your event space will determine how and when certain elements of your celebration unfold.
Fredericks of Abigail Kirsch Catering says, “Venue restrictions can offer more challenges to food activation stations, so it’s important to work with a cater who can help provide branded and unique serving vessels or waiter uniforms to highlight the company’s messaging.”
Other restrictions might include which caterers you can hire (some venues have exclusive or preferred caterers), live flames, food carts, on-site kitchens, or equipment availability, etc.
15. Hire a Caterer with Corporate Event Experience
The elements that go into creating a successful corporate event, like a well-crafted culinary experience, are inseparable from the people who produce those elements. Every catering company is made up of a group of people, and it’s those people who will plan, produce, and troubleshoot along the way. As such, it’s essential to hire an experienced catering company with excellent communication skills — as well as a commitment to quality and professionalism.
Hernandez of Delivering Experiences advises his clients to “look at a company’s reviews, availability, and whether they have experience handling corporate events like networking events, fundraisers, product launches, conferences, and grand openings.” This familiarity with corporate events will make the difference between a good meal and a great experience.
This is where research will come in handy to make sure your caterer of choice is able to accommodate your guests’ needs. - Caroline Stoeckel, Director of Sales and Marketing at M Culinary Concepts
Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning beautifully sums it up for us. “We believe in quality and passion in everything that we do, and we expect that companies should have a similar approach if they want to capitalize on any opportunities they have to include catered events.”
Use PartySlate’s curated directory to find a corporate caterer near you, or keep reading to reach out to our experienced contributors below.
So much goes into choosing the right corporate event venue. PartySlate reached out to some of the top corporate event planners in the industry to learn more about what clients need to know before a booking a venue — and how to find the perfect fit. Check out “Top Planners Share How to Choose a Corporate Event Venue” for a step-by-step guide to finalizing your venue choice.
Once you’ve determined your venue needs and priorities, use PartySlate’s venue directory to find a corporate event venue near you. Use the filters to narrow your search by location, venue type, guest count, amenities, and more. Look for the “featured” tags to discover PartySlate’s top recommendations, and click into a preferred venue’s PartySlate profile to see how real business leaders utilized the space for their own corporate events.
Where can I find more corporate event inspiration?
PartySlate is your go-to resource for the best event inspiration. Click below to discover some the most popular corporate guides. Whether you’re looking to attract new customers, network with established business leaders, or retain employee talent, you’ll find everything you need to start planning a memorable celebration.
On Tuesday, March 12th, more than 250 top event professionals gathered in Los Angeles to celebrate with PartySlate for an evening of cocktails and networking. The soirée, hosted at The London West Hollywood, captured the glamour of this iconic city with a “Hollywood Highlight” theme that married iconic Tinsel Town glamour with a fresh spring aesthetic.
With its multiple unique event spaces, The London West Hollywood set the scene for an evening of connection and celebration. Robert Kellermann, Director of Sales & Marketing at The London West Hollywood, tells us, “PartySlate has been a great partner, with a singular vision to showcase our spaces, together with other vendors, in order to bring industry professionals together to network and mingle whilst enjoying beautiful food, drinks, décor, and service.”
Edgar Hay, Creative Director of Edgar Hay Events, took inspiration from the celebration’s two event spaces, switching from an elevated garden aesthetic to a hip LA vibe as the evening progressed. Eric Yousefian, Owner of Design and Floral company Dolce Fiore continued the dual vision with wow-worthy florals that ranged from fresh and punchy to over-the-top glam.
A Glimpse of the Evening to Come
Guests were invited to PartySlate’s celebration via a luxe digital invitation, custom-designed for the gathering by Atelier Azure. Its lush, botanical design gave guests a sneak peek into the balmy rooftop soirée with a secret garden ambiance.
Design: From Spring Garden to Rooftop Glam
A fluid aesthetic requires the right event flow — and that means enlisting a venue with multiple event space options. Kellermann of The London West Hollywood tells us, “There was a great flow between our West End Rooftop and Penthouse Suite (at 11,000 square feet, it’s the largest penthouse in LA) for the event. The West End rooftop boasts stunning skyline views of Los Angeles, mixed with the custom décor put together for the event really made the space pop.”
A custom-fit tent and turf flooring contributed to the dreamy, but elevated, garden setting. Edgar Hay Events perfected the Hollywood elegance of the venue with a fresh spring color palette heightened by pops of white and metallic accents, thanks to MTB Event Rentals.
Dolce Fiore immersed guests into a botanical dreamscape with a massive tree installation built on-site to be a focal piece for the bar area. Guests gravitated toward the huge floral wall that spelled out “PartySlate” in fresh pink roses.
MTB Event Rentals brought in a miniature white circular stage (a 2024 event trend) that was perfect for speeches (a must-have for any successful networking event) — and Dolce Fiore added florals along the bottom to keep it cohesive with the rest of the design. Vogue Candles refined the look with the addition of their luxury, eco-friendly candle décor.
When guests transitioned to the Penthouse Suite and Rooftop, they experienced uninterrupted skyline views and soft golden lighting — thereby ending the evening with a hip LA rooftop experience.
Entertainment: From Chill to Night Club
A celebration with distinct networking spaces requires a flexible approach that transcends a “one-size-fits-all” style of entertainment. With that in mind DJ Nahchey of Dash Entertainment reinvented his traditional formula for an evening of riveting entertainment.
“We love combining live musicians to play along side with our DJs,” DJ Nahchey tells us. “However, for this event since we were taking care of entertainment in three areas (a DJ for the main area as well as musicians for the reception area and the Penthouse rooftop), we decided to have a saxophonist along with backing tracks play during the first hour while guests entered and checked in. We placed our electric violinist (also with backing tracks) on the rooftop of the penthouse to create a more ‘chilled out space’ for those wanting to take in the Los Angeles skyline and have a more intimate conversation with old and new friends. Our DJ Amanda kept the energy high in the main room while guest mingled and enjoyed the libations.”
Of course, the most immersive entertainment experiences create a full-sensory experience for the guests. DJ Nahchey shares, “We were able to use our LED Wall (with a list of the event sponsors) to create a dynamic background behind our DJ. Our AV tech was able to take the graphics and mix them with other ambient visuals for a little more ‘clubby feel.’ One of our breakdancers did a little performance in the very cool PhotoBohemia booth, as well.”
The unique entertainment continued with Ars Poetica, an experiential poetry agency, who delighted guests with written-on-the-spot poems from vintage typewriters.
Fresh Fare: Bites Made for Mingling
Kellermann of The London West Hollywood tells us, “We wanted to showcase our exceptional culinary team, which is a major selling point for hosting events at The London. Our Executive Chef Anthony Keene is laser-focused on delivering high-quality food through a beautiful presentation, to ensure guest satisfaction.”
Guests enjoyed passed apps such as sliders, fresh rolls, chicken empanadas with cilantro salsa, and crispy tuna. Of course, The London West Hollywood continued their theme of multiples with two unique slider options: angus beef and Maryland crab cake.
Opportunities to mingle continued with a beautiful grazing table by Pausmith Group. Founder Rob Pausmith shares, “The main food station provided by The London was a seafood risotto bar with a variety of toppings for guests. With something richer being served as a focal food point, our team at Pausmith Group wanted to complement that and create more of a gathering space for guests to congregate around and come back to multiple times throughout the evening to nosh on lighter bites.
“We believe in not just delicious displays, but visual storytelling. We created a grazing table that incorporated both florals and whole produce like vibrant tangerines and scarlet peppers to draw the eye to an organic, flowing display. Items featured on the table included artisanal meats and cheeses, crudité, beet hummus, gourmet crackers, and miniature desserts for a little something sweet. Food is a conversation piece, so our goal here was to provide a spot for guests to mingle and connect over delectable bites!“
All of the Memories Made (& Captured)
It was definitely an evening worth remembering, and we are grateful that Rene Zadori Photography was on hand to beautifully capture the elegant celebration. The team shot gorgeous candid pictures of guests having fun as well as photos of every colorful design detail and delicious dish. The team also captured moving images that told the story of the celebration with an engaging video that takes us right back to the night. Both will remind the hundreds of guests of their good time (and will make those who weren’t there, wish they were).
Another memory-maker, PhotoBohemia, allowed partygoers to capture themselves having fun together against a custom, plush metallic backdrop. Plus, guests could utilize props and apply filters for fun pics that they could take home or share on social media.
On Tuesday, March 5, hundreds of top event industry professionals gathered in Chicago to celebrate with PartySlate at a party that took its theme from the city itself. The soirée was perfectly placed at Cafe Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo — as the historic space was built in the city in 1908. Its Prairie School-style design — a movement which emerged in Chicago — made this the ideal spot to produce the city-centric theme.
Beth Bernstein and her in-demand planning team at Beth Bernstein Events produced the event, which served not only as a PartySlate gathering, but also featured a pre-event cocktail hour in honor of her company’s anniversary. Bernstein shares, “I think it was perfect because I was able to keep it small, but also private, because of the way Cafe Brauer is set up. The venue is such a Chicago icon — along with the fact that I was going to be doing a celebration for my 15th anniversary — I felt that I really wanted to highlight the city, because that’s where I built my business. It was a love letter to Chicago.” The city is where PartySlate was founded, so the pairing was perfect. The planner also notes that she focused on partnering with local vendors as a continuation of the event’s Windy City focus.
One of those vendors just happened to be Kehoe Designs, a Chicago mainstay and first call for the city’s biggest events. The team provided creative direction to fulfill Bernstein’s vision, which wowed with big moments and small, thoughtful details.
A Glimpse of the Evening to Come
Guests were invited to PartySlate’s celebration via a luxe digital invitation, custom-designed for the gathering by Ashley Frye Studio. Its design reflected the theming in a stylish way — with letterpress drawings of Chicago monuments and inventions. Icons like the Marshall Fields clock and the Hancock Tower joined Chicago ingenuities like the Ferris Wheel and Hostess snack cakes, setting the scene for a city-themed event.
The invitation’s design carried over into the signage and installations at the evening soirée, creating a chic and cohesive celebration. Planner Bernstein says of the design, “We went with the window pane design versus the stained glass look, which I thought was so great of Ashley Frye. I wanted lots of different illustrations in some sort of pattern, and she completely knocked it out of the park and highlighted things that are unique to or invented in Chicago.” She notes that the iconography that was used is all super recognizable, and that every single thing had a meaning behind it.
Design: In Our Chicago Era
Upon entering the party, guests were greeted with a towering Ferris Wheel replica festooned with PartySlate branding. It gave them a sense of the delights waiting inside.
Bernstein shares of the party’s modern design in the historic space, “I didn’t want Cafe Brauer to look like every other picture of the space. It’s a beautiful venue for weddings — I planned one of my absolute favorite weddings from there — but I specifically said no hanging greenery. I didn’t want a garden feel. Instead, I really wanted it to speak to Chicago and play off of the history.”
She says, “The event’s overall color palette was not the typical ‘let’s pull from the stained glass windows’.” The planner adds that she was going for a vintage vibe and wanted to embody the World’s Fair era up through the 1920s. The palette, appropriately, included a green the color of patina, a brick hue in a nod to the city’s industrial history, and a blue that evoked Lake Michigan.
“Matt Lahey of Kehoe Designs did such an amazing job with the geometric shapes throughout the event, which played off of the window panes. He took the design and ran with it,” says Bernstein. Kehoe also created an installation of landmark skyscrapers that towered behind the band, setting the event firmly in The Windy City.
Planner Bernstein says of another custom feature that BlackOak Technical Productions produced for the stage, “One of my favorite things was what Will Barnett from BlackOak came up — a digital screen behind the stage. So you don’t just have this backdrop or drape, but instead this interactive element that elevated things to another level. It was dynamic, with constant movement, and yet also a piece of décor.”
Barnett from BlackOak shares, “A/V played a large role for this event. We were able to supply a high-quality LED Wall that was showing various vintage clips of Chicago. We also tied in modern clips of Chicago that helped cover a huge timeline.” The film not only honored the city, but also PartySlate’s esteemed vendor partners, with logos worked into the footage. All of this played out on a luxe stage provided by the team at Hall’s Rental Service, Inc. ****
In addition to the LED wall, BlackOak created a party-perfect lighting scheme. Barnett says, “Cafe Brauer has a historic feel with unique colors. Brick tones, natural wood finishes, and blue/green hues surround the entire space. Our lighting choices truly elevated the space and complemented the existing architecture.”
Additional décor elements included vintage street lamp replicas, a color-blocked stage base, custom dance floor decal, and an epic bar that included the Chicago graphics created by Ashley Frye. Natalie Kay from Cafe Brauer shares, “I thought Kehoe and BlackOak did such a nice job of incorporating design elements into the space without taking away from the existing beauty of the venue. My favorite detail was the street lamp duplicates flanking the bar!”
BBJ La Tavola and Tablescapes Event Rentals provided the cocktail tables and luxe gold velvet linen that filled the space and made it feel as glamorous as vintage Chicago should.
Entertainment: Blues & Sing-Alongs
Danny Chaimson of Gold Coast Events — with bands on their roster like in-demand Gold Coast All Stars and Rush Street Rhythm — shares his team’s approach to entertainment that married the theme and needs of a corporate event.
“Since the event was Chicago-themed, I wanted to start with some really authentic blues stuff, but didn’t want to overwhelm people who were trying to socialize. I loved bringing in blues harmonica (an instrument not often used at these kind of events) to help lend to the authenticity. I followed that with an acoustic based six-piece band that was focusing on deeper cuts; again, I meant to not overwhelm people trying to socialize, but also to provide a super cool feel-good atmosphere.
“To incorporate the Chicago theme, we opened up with some Chicago-based artists, playing “1979” by Smashing Pumpkins and “Jesus Etc.” by Wilco. I thought it was a really nice way to transition into the rest of the night, which was very much music and artist based, but also increasingly fun as the night went on.”
Mid-evening, the networking gave way to dancing and singing as guests crowded the dance floor to link arms and sing along to the band. Bernstein shares, “The last hour, we were all singing along to the music, like nineties and pop tunes, and people got into it. It was a community moment, where people that had never met before, were all singing the Backstreet Boys together. I also love that it ended on Taylor Swift.”
Other memorable entertainment moments came courtesy of a collaboration between Tigerlily Events, who provide catering and event management for the Lincoln Park Zoo — including Cafe Brauer, and NewMoon Chicago, who specialize in creating “wow” experiential moments at events.
Bernstein says, “For the interactive entertainment, it was very important to me that it wasn’t people hanging from the ceiling and doing these things that we see all the time now. I also did not want to do anything unless it was a direct tie-in to the event theming and made sense and was purposeful.”
To that end, NewMoon provided servers offered appetizers to guests from trays suspended on giant “hot air” balloons. The servers, clad in Chicago flag dresses, would pull down the cord to lower a balloon that was hovering over everyone’s heads to serve savory bites.
The team also created a moment with dessert service. A woman wearing a hoop skirt that doubled as a table offered mini brownies bites and another mainstay, Garrett’s Popcorn and their “Chicago Mix” of cheese and caramel. The table lady’s outfit and tablecloth was themed for the Chicago Fire. She slowly glided through the event to the delight of guests who had their cameras out to capture it.
Another totally unique interactive moment came courtesy of Roni Golan Collaborative Painting. At the beginning of the event, guests were presented with a blank black canvas. Throughout the evening, each took up a brush and added something to it — from waves and trees to hearts and names. After the event, Golan turned the canvas into a work of art, weaving the disparate elements into one amazing keepsake from the event.
Fresh Fare: Chicago Mainstays & Elegant Bites
Bernstein says of curating a fitting menu, “Natalie Kay and Cafe Brauer were so great to work with, they were great partners. Lots of time, menus will lock you in, but even if we had over-the-top ideas, Natalie would check to see if we could make it work.”
Bernstein notes that she wanted to avoid too much “kitsch” in the theming, even when it came to the menu. She says, “It is hard to pull off a Chicago theme without it going so over the top and, you know, Frank Sinatra, ‘My Kind of Town,’ and all that. Even though we were serving some deep dish and hot dogs, I wanted the passed appetizers to be super elevated, and that’s why we did truffled deviled eggs and sushi-grade hamachi tuna on wonton crisps.”
The wide-ranging fare offered a fitting contrast between the city’s elegant and more spirited sides, and the menu planning was very intentional. Kay with Tigerlily shares of their menu development process, “We wanted guests to feel right at home with nostalgic, classic Chicago fare. The menu also created fun talking points, such as how the brownie was invented in Chicago!
“We loved partnering with NewMoon Chicago to serve the food in creative ways that the guests could interact with. In addition to providing a unique visual element, the hot air balloon servers helped us circulate food throughout a busy room!”
Guests enjoyed a wide range of fare that included Punjab vegetable samosas, buttermilk fried chicken pops, deep dish pizza, mini Italian beefs, and build-your own Chicago hot dog. MENU. As Bernstein says,”Everybody loves pizza and hot dogs.”
Even the cocktail menu upheld the theme by taking it way back with the specialty cocktail The Bee’s Knees, a Prohibition-era cocktail of gin, fresh lemon juice, and honey. The bar also served up sips from Aphrodise (a luxury Greek sparkling Rosé), PRESS Seltzer (a Midwest-founded hard seltzer), and Consentio Spirits (who specialize in small-batch Tequila production).
The Original Rainbow Cone, who has been serving up creative scoops for 95 years in Chicago, was also on hand. They offered guests perfectly delectable — and Instagram-worthy — mini-towers of brightly hued ice cream in varied flavors.
All of the Memories Made (& Captured)
It was definitely an evening worth remembering, and we are grateful that Collin Pierson Photography was on hand to beautifully capture the dramatic soirée. The team shot gorgeous candid pictures of guests having fun as well as photos of every colorful design detail and delicious dish. Meanwhile, Old North Film Co. captured moving images that told the story of the celebration with an engaging video that takes us right back to the night. Both will remind the hundreds of guests of their good time (and will make those who weren’t there, wish they were).
Another memory-maker, ShutterBox Photo Booth, allowed partygoers to capture themselves having fun together against a custom, themed backdrop. Plus, guests could utilize props and apply filters for fun pics that they could take home or share on social media.
And More Thanks
Producing a beautiful celebration — like PartySlate’s Chicago-themed gathering — requires a talented team of partners. In addition to the vendors listed above, we also want to thank P.V.M. LLC for their top-notch valet services.
We also appreciate Bianca Sansosti Artistry for our party-ready hair and picture-perfect makeup. They made sure that our PartySlate team looked (and felt) our absolute best.
We can’t have a great time without a good night’s sleep. As such, our gratitude goes out to LM Media Worldwide/ Kleinfeld Hotel Blocks — a must-have, complimentary service that will search, negotiate, and book your hotel block for your out-of-town wedding and event guests.
