When it comes to planning a corporate event, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is choosing the right location. The choice often comes down to two main options: a restaurant or a dedicated event venue. Each option offers its own set of advantages and potential drawbacks. In this blog, we'll explore the key differences between both and help you decide which is best for your needs. We’ll take a look at:
Ambiance and atmosphere
Space and capacity
Catering and food options
Technical capabilities
Professional support
Flexibility and customization
Cost considerations
If you’re concerned about cost, check out our blog, “How to Plan a Corporate Event on a Budget,” for tips on hosting events on a limited budget.
Need Space for an Upcoming Business Event?
Look no further than Modern Moments, the East Valley's premier 5-star-rated venue! Our multi-use facility provides both indoor and outdoor settings for corporate events of all kinds. Whether you need a quiet, tech-powered space for presentations and workshops or space for large team gatherings and outdoor activities, Modern Moments offers the ideal environment for collaboration, celebration, and growth.
To get started, take a virtual tour, check out our rates and amenities page, or click below to contact us about your specific date, party size, and other details. We’d be happy to set up an in-person tour of our property.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Restaurants:
Restaurants typically offer a unique ambiance that reflects their culinary style and theme. This can be a great advantage if you want to create a specific atmosphere, whether it's a cozy, intimate setting or a lively, vibrant environment. Restaurants often have decor and furnishings in place, saving you time and effort on decorations.
Venues:
Dedicated event venues, on the other hand, are blank canvases. They offer the flexibility to design the space according to your event’s theme and branding. Whether you need a professional, corporate atmosphere or a creative, innovative setup, venues can be tailored to meet your needs. This customization is ideal for companies looking to make a specific impression.
Space and Capacity
Restaurants:
Restaurants are generally designed to comfortably accommodate a certain number of diners. While some restaurants have private dining rooms or sections that can be reserved for events, they might be limited in capacity. However, for larger corporate events, such as conferences or product launches, space can be a significant constraint.
Venues:
Event venues are built to handle a wide range of event sizes, from small meetings to large conferences with hundreds of attendees. They often offer multiple rooms or areas that can be configured to suit your event's needs, whether it's breakout sessions, workshops, or networking areas. Venues also typically provide ample parking and are more likely to be ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for all attendees.
Catering and Food Options
Restaurants:
One of the biggest advantages of hosting your event at a restaurant is the food. Restaurants take pride in their culinary offerings, and your guests are likely to enjoy high-quality meals prepared by skilled chefs. Additionally, restaurants can often accommodate special dietary requirements and offer a variety of menu options. The downside is that you are limited to the restaurant's menu and style, which may not suit every corporate event.
Venues:
Event venues usually partner with various caterers, giving you a broader range of culinary options. You can choose a caterer that aligns with your event’s theme, budget, and dietary needs of your guests. Some venues (like Modern Moments!) also allow you to bring in your own food or caterer, providing even more flexibility. This can be particularly advantageous if you want to offer a unique or themed dining experience.
Technical Capabilities
Restaurants:
While some restaurants have basic audiovisual equipment, they may not have the advanced technology needed for larger corporate events. Sound systems, projectors, screens, and internet access might be limited or come with additional costs. This can be a drawback if your event requires high-tech presentations, live streaming, or interactive elements.
Venues:
Event venues are generally well-equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology. They have the infrastructure to support complex presentations, video conferencing, and other technical requirements. Many venues also provide on-site technical support to ensure everything runs smoothly. This can be crucial for events where seamless technology integration is essential.
Professional Support
Restaurants:
Restaurant staff are experienced in providing excellent service to diners, but they may not have the specific training or experience needed to manage corporate events. While some restaurants have event coordinators, their primary focus is on food service, which can sometimes leave gaps in event management.
Venues:
Dedicated event venues often have professional event planners and coordinators on staff. These experts can assist with every aspect of your event, from initial planning to execution, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Their experience in handling corporate events means they can anticipate and address potential issues before they arise, providing a seamless experience for you and your guests.
Flexibility and Customization
Restaurants:
Restaurants come with predefined layouts and decor, which can limit your ability to customize the space. While some restaurants may allow for minor adjustments, such as rearranging tables or adding decorations, you are generally working within a fixed environment. This can be a limitation if your event requires specific branding or a unique setup.
Venues:
Event venues offer unparalleled flexibility and customization. From room layouts to decor and branding, venues can be tailored to meet your exact specifications. Whether you need a stage, exhibition space, or interactive areas, venues can be configured to support your vision. This level of customization ensures that your event reflects your company’s identity and goals.
Cost Considerations
Restaurants:
Restaurants can be cost-effective for smaller gatherings, especially if you are primarily focused on food and drink. Restaurant package deals often include space, food, and basic services, which can simplify budgeting. However, costs can quickly add up if you require additional services or equipment.
Venues:
While venues may have higher initial costs due to rental fees and additional services, they often provide better value for larger events. The ability to customize and utilize advanced technology can justify the expense, especially when considering the overall impact and professionalism of the event. Additionally, the flexibility to choose your caterer and vendors can help manage costs more effectively.
To learn more about corporate event costs, check out our blog, “How Much Does Hosting a Corporate Event Cost?”
Host Your Next Corporate Event at Modern Moments!
Our team of friendly, experienced professionals offers a wealth of expertise in orchestrating corporate events, providing personalized attention to meet your vision and budget. With versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, state-of-the-art conference facilities, and curated vendor partnerships, we ensure seamless professional collaboration and unforgettable experiences. Contact us today for a tour and discover why Modern Moments is the East Valley’s premier venue for corporate events. Don’t want to wait? You can also take a virtual tour!