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Location, Location, Location
July 2010
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Michelle Posner, National Project and Meeting Planner at Grant Thornton, LLP
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By Hayley Mitchell
Michelle Posner is the National Project and Meeting Planner at Grant Thornton, LLP, a leading Canadian accounting and business advisory firm, providing audit, tax and advisory services to private and public organizations, with more than 3,100 staff members in Canada. She works on the company’s large events, such as the annual partners meeting, as well as managing the logistical side of the company’s learning and development group.
Posner says that one way to save money and still get sizzle and anticipation for your meeting or event is to start by choosing the right location, which may cost you more money initially, but save you more money down the road, since often more is included and at your fingertips at better event venues. “location can be a big draw for the guests that are attending your event,” says Posner, “If you spend a bit more on the venue to start, it will add value and you will have a lot more amenities, and if the property is unique you will have creative spaces that you can work with.” A great venue may mean anything from a centrally located and unique hotel, to a new resort with loads of amenities, to a large restaurant that might have water views and a unique menu. Depending on the size and purpose of your meeting, the location will vary of course, but if you spend the time and money on booking an exciting location, you can save money on other costs.
A good venue will often not require as much to be spent on décor or furniture rentals, since it’s already there, so there is an instant cost savings. Catering would also be available onsite, so again you do not need to hire outside vendors, which is generally less cost-efficient. A centrally-located venue can save money on travel expenses, and a location that offers more amenities, can also create more excitement for your client or staff without costing anything extra at all.
The money that you save by getting the right venue from the start, can be spent on other buzz-worthy things, like awards ceremonies, prizes or unique entertainment or special guests, which are sure to create the sizzle you are looking for, but at a smaller price.
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