You’re planning an event, but you don’t know which type yet. Do you host a cocktail event or a seated event? Ah, a question as old as time itself. Okay, not really. It’s something worth pondering, though, especially when you’re organising a special or corporate occasion. A cocktail-style event allows for more mingling and the ability to jump ship when you no longer want to be part of a conversation – HANDY. On the other hand, sit-down events mean you’re guaranteed a seat and some food without having to chase down a canapé waiter – ALSO HANDY.
So, before you start looking at venues – you have to know what you want your event to achieve. The end goal can be anything from celebrating something special, brand promotion, a stunning cocktail wedding reception, or a party like no other.
Obviously, the event types have their different times to shine. It's especially dependent on whether you're hosting a corporate event or a social event. The two classic event types serve different purposes beyond just celebrating.
As someone who has booked hundreds of events, Venuemob’s Corporate Business Development Manager, Lauren Carlyle, breaks it down. "It depends on the event’s objective. Generally, if it’s a party or celebration, it’s cocktail. If it’s formal or a conference, it’ll be a dinner" says Carlyle.
We understand it's a tough choice to make, so here are the instances when you'll be in need of a cocktail event or a sit-down event.
Cocktail Events
“For networking and socialising, cocktail events are ideal. They're great because you can try different type of food and mingle – and there's less planning involved." — Lauren Carlyle
Cocktail parties are for mingling and networking. That said, event planners need to place more importance on fostering an exciting atmosphere through entertainment and music at the event, to ensure your standing patrons are having a great time.
Tight on cash?
“If anything, people lean towards cocktail because it’s cheaper,” says Carlyle. Seated events provide more costs in food and beverage price per person, theme decoration, staff preparation, and a lengthier duration.
Need to network?
Cocktail-style events are most certainly the best option if your intention is to socialise, network, hand out business cards and work the room.
Want to enter the party zone?
Everywhere is a dance floor at a cocktail party. Make a dance circle happen. Hang out with all your favourite people, float between conversations, taste little treats, and don't worry about table allocations.
The potential downside?
Lacklustre canapé distribution. There’s nothing more disheartening than rocking up to a cocktail party hungry and not getting enough of the canapés. Cocktail wedding receptions especially need to be careful with food provision. “If a client is doing a cocktail party, they really want substantial food. Food stations are really popular at the moment," says Carlyle.
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Sit Down Events
“If you’re a venue or an event planner, you get more control over the styling of your event when it’s a sit down affair – centrepieces, napkins, branding, they’re all opportunities to showcase your company” — Lauren Carlyle
For planners, there’s much more organisation involved in seated events. Seating plans, tables, dietary requirements. However, that also means you have more control over organising the event with a venue – which is a definite plus.
Promoting a brand?
When it comes to using an event to promote your brand or send out a message, sit-down events are the way to go. It’s easier to get your message to the guests when you can simply place info cards on tables or find more places to showcase your brand logo.
Not only that, but audiences are more easily engaged at sit-down events, according to Carlyle. So if you're going to make a presentation, it's best that everyone is fed and seated so they're not distracted.
The potential downside?
Being stuck at a table with people you don’t want to talk to. Looking across the table and seeing your friends having a jolly time on the other side of the table, or your favourite co-workers getting on the booze without you.
Looking to impress clients or co-workers?
Sit-down events are perfect for promoting your brand with more ease, wowing clients with a three-course sit-down meal, and presenting to a more engaged audience.
Saying "I do" or celebrating a milestone?
Finally, a place for those in heels to seek seated refuge without taking themselves away from the party action around them, and everyone getting a great feed. That's the sit-down event promise. Cocktail weddings, birthday parties, or milestone celebrations are made that much more special with a sit-down feast.
Depending on your wedding style, whether you're planning cocktail-style weddings/cocktail-style receptions or sit-down weddings, each event style has its own unique advantages. To make sure your occasion looks and tastes like it's in line with your vision, consider the size of your guest list, budget and the atmosphere you’re trying to create. With a bit of clever planning and creativity, you can create an event that will be a success no matter which style you choose.
In conclusion:
It’s important to really understand your event's purpose and the audience you're catering for before deciding between a seated event or cocktail party – as the two have their pros and cons. If budget is of concern, cocktail events are the way to go, but if you need more control over your message or brand promotion – a seated event is optimal. For personal occasions such as weddings and birthdays, go for the sit-down option. Whatever you decide, ensure it works best for your guests.
So, there you have it. Decide on what you want to get out of your event, and choose an event type from there. In the end, let's be real – the most important thing is that there are plentiful amounts of food and alcohol.
Planning a gala dinner, awards dinner, cocktail party, networking event, wedding, engagement party, or any kind of event? VenueNow is here to help.
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