An enormous part of managing an event venue is making sure you have the right amenities available.
Event attendees need to have access to certain amenities to make the event possible. And if your venue can offer a greater variation of amenities, it can help you attract a larger customer base and secure more event bookings.
Whether your venue is new, or you’re trying to make it more suitable for events, this guide explores some of the most important venue amenities you should have available.
What are Event Venue Amenities?
Event venue amenities are the features and services offered at a location where events, such as weddings, conferences, parties, or meetings, are held.
These amenities are designed to enhance the overall experience of attendees and make the event more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. Every venue will have its own venue facilities checklist, outlining what the venue has to offer. This is essential for understanding the types of events you can host at these venues and the types of experiences you can offer guests.
Any event manager scouting venues will want to check the event space amenities first and foremost. This is a crucial factor in whether the venue is suitable for an event.
While not all venues can offer all kinds of amenities, certain amenities should almost always be covered. These are usually simple things that make a venue space more accessible and usable.
Event Venue Amenities You Need
Whether you’re planning a large corporate event or a low-key wedding, you need to make sure that the venue checklist covers the right amenities.
While certain amenities are considered luxuries and not necessary for every event, here are some of the most important things a venue should contain for all kinds of different types of events.
Parking
Enough parking at a venue space is generally non-negotiable. This is especially important for large venues.
Adequate parking options ensure that guests can reach the event easily without the stress of finding a parking spot. This sets the stage for a positive experience right from the beginning, reducing frustrations and delays.
Parking areas are also important for loading and unloading events. If your event space requires large deliveries, having enough parking available can make things a lot easier.
Restrooms
Whether your venue hosts business events, weddings, live music shows, or anything else, a clean restroom is essential.
Clean, well-maintained restrooms are not just a matter of convenience but a basic necessity. They ensure that guests can freshen up and stay comfortable throughout the event, contributing to their overall enjoyment.
Of course, you need to make sure that you have enough restroom space to match the size of the events you’re hosting. If you plan to host particularly large events, then your venue may need to invest in additional portable restrooms for the occasion.
Wi-Fi
In our increasingly connected world, wifi is a lifeline for many. You simply cannot host an event without a reliable internet connection.
High-speed internet access allows attendees to stay connected for various purposes, whether it's work-related tasks, sharing event moments on social media, or staying in touch with loved ones.
Good wifi is essential for corporate events, but it's also a must for any other event as you might need it for managing event operations. This is something your guests will expect you to have available, so ensure your connection is strong before advertising your event venue.
You should also have a backup internet connection available. This is what you can use privately, while your guests use a different connection. If the main connection drops out, they can always switch to the other one.
Audio-Visual Equipment
Not all event venues offer comprehensive audio-visual equipment - this just depends on the type of venue and what kind of events it accommodates. However, having this equipment available does make any venue a lot more appealing to event planners.
Quality audio-visual equipment is essential for presentations, entertainment, and communication. It ensures that your audience can see and hear everything clearly, which is crucial for the success of any event.
If you don’t have this equipment available, event planners will have to rent it out at an extra cost. This makes planning events more expensive and more complicated, so a good AV setup in your venue will certainly help you attract more venue bookings.
Furniture
You can't just offer an empty space as your venue. Well, technically you can, but you’ll struggle to impress any prospective customers.
The right furniture can significantly impact the atmosphere of an event. Appropriate seating arrangements and tables tailored to the event's style and purpose contribute to the overall comfort and aesthetics, creating an inviting and engaging environment.
This is why it's important to understand the types of events you want to accommodate at your venue first so that you can kit your venue out with the most suitable furniture.
It’s generally best to go for simple furnishings, as you can then decorate your venue for different types of events more easily.
Enough Space
Sure, this is not an amenity. But, it is a crucial venue consideration that you need to make clear on any venue advertising you have.
Your venue needs to be adequately sized for the types of events you hold. This often includes various differently sized room options, which can make your venue more versatile.
While most venues only offer a single event space, having different-sized and shaped rooms can help you offer different types of events. You could even equip different rooms with portable bars and buffets.
This makes your venue more versatile, which makes it more appealing to an event planner.
Catering Services
Food and beverages are a cornerstone of many events. Having catering services on-site or easily accessible ensures that guests are well-fed and can enjoy a diverse menu that caters to different tastes and dietary needs.
Some venues have kitchens, some don’t. However, you should still have suitable amenities for serving food. This could include fridges, tables, and counter space at the least. You’ll also need a dedicated washing-up area.
Climate Control
Maintaining a comfortable temperature is vital for the well-being of your guests. An efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system ensures that everyone remains comfortable throughout the event, regardless of the weather outside.
Security
Safety is paramount, and guests should feel secure throughout the event.
A strong security presence and surveillance systems provide peace of mind, allowing attendees to relax and enjoy the event without concerns about their safety. This is also important for providing peace of mind to the venue owner.
The security measures you take should be relevant to your venue, its position, and the types of events you host. For example, some venues may offer bouncers and security services.
Event Planning Services
Event planning can be a complex and overwhelming task.
Event planning services help streamline the process, ensuring that all aspects of the event are well-organized and executed smoothly, reducing the stress on event organizers.
Stage and Lighting
These amenities are essential for creating captivating presentations and entertainment. A well-equipped stage and quality lighting systems add depth and visual appeal to performances, making them more engaging and memorable.
Cleaning Services
A clean environment is a reflection of professionalism and care. Regular cleaning and maintenance services ensure that the venue remains in top condition, contributing to a positive and professional atmosphere.
Accessibility
Accessibility features such as ramps and elevators are essential for inclusivity, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can navigate the venue comfortably.
They make it possible for all guests to participate fully in the event. Your venue may also need to be ADA-compliant, so the right accessibility features are really important.
Green Rooms
These private areas provide performers, speakers, or VIP guests with a place to prepare and relax. They are crucial for ensuring that these individuals are ready to deliver their best performances or presentations.
Similar to green rooms, dressing rooms offer privacy and comfort to event participants, allowing them to get ready in a relaxed and organized manner before taking the stage.
Coat Check
A designated coat check area offers convenience for guests, allowing them to leave their coats and belongings securely.
This service enhances the overall guest experience by reducing clutter and providing peace of mind. While this is not an essential venue amenity, it is a nice touch for more upmarket venues and events.
Lounge Areas
Lounge areas provide a space for guests to socialize, relax, and recharge during breaks. Comfortable seating and a welcoming atmosphere make these areas vital for creating a pleasant and engaging event experience.
Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor areas, such as gardens or terraces, offer a change of scenery and an opportunity for open-air events or breaks, adding versatility and a refreshing touch to the event.
Having outdoor spaces can also help you host a wider range of events throughout the year making your venue more versatile and appealing.
Conclusion
Amenities are what set different events apart and give them a special touch. The more relevant amenities you can offer, the more appealing your event venue becomes.
When running an events venue, you’ll also want to use the right venue management software to make your life a whole lot easier. Try Perfect Venue for free to see how the all-in-one platform can take your event venue to the next level.
