#San Diego Corporate Event Catering - 5 Steps For Creating The Perfect Corporate Party Planning Check

[ranchevents]

San Diego Corporate Event Catering - 5 Steps For Creating The Perfect Corporate Party Planning Check

Corporate events are a great opportunity for your company to showcase its accomplishments and create camaraderie among employees and clients. Options range from a fancy corporate gala to a casual party. At Ranch Events, we have a variety of menu choices that ranges from Texas BBQ to an Elegant Sit Down meal.  When planning Corporate Events, you need to think of activities, themes, promotions, food, and entertainment. Employees, investors, clients, and even potential customers may attend, so it’s important that your company is presented well. Although this may seem like a daunting task, staying organized and following this corporate party checklist can help ensure that you have a successful event

Step 1. Planning and Research:

…Set budget (talk to your financial department). Ranch Events works with all budgets and an Event Designer can help you choose a menu that caters to yours.

…Begin brainstorming type of event (for employees, clients, investors, etc.)

…Determine the goal of your event (reinforce your corporate culture, build relationships, increase sales or productivity, etc.)

…Choose a date, location, and time.

…Decide on a theme (formal, casual, 80s, other corporate event ideas)

…Research keynote speakers.

…Research professional corporate event entertainment companies

…Some companies book both a band and a DJ if it is a multi-day event.

…If you are booking a band, try to talk to others who have hired them to make sure that they are professional and reliable, making sure that they have experience with corporate events. The difference in good entertainment and great entertainment can make a dance floor go from ten people to overflowing.

…WARNING: Some DMCs (Destination Management Companies) offer low-quality bands that give them a larger profit margin. Sometimes they do this while claiming to have the best entertainment in the area. If you are not impressed with their options, search elsewhere.  If they don’t have a live video of a band you love, search elsewhere. Remember, YOU will be the hero if that dance floor is packed, and everyone will remember it for a long time.

Step 2. Begin Booking and Promoting:

…Book the venue for your date.

…Decide on a theme(s).

…Order decorations.

…Book your entertainment. (keynote speakers and live bands are the most popular for corporate events)

…Book photographer/videographer to document your event.

…Send out the save-the-date (Post in your office, send out a save-the-date email, postcard, post on your website, etc.)

…Find hotels in the area of your event to accommodate your guests. (Ranch Events can give you a list of preferred hotels that may even offer discounts)

…Order your invitations and RSVP cards to be printed.

…If you plan on making a program or newsletter for your event, hire or assign someone to begin putting it together.

…Order or rent necessary equipment. (At Ranch Events we offer everything from Podiums and microphones to Overhead projectors and Easels.

Step 3. Invitations and Confirmations:

…Send out your invitations and encourage people to RSVP by a specific date.

…Confirm your hotel, venue, entertainment, and food.

…If your venue is outdoors, make sure you have a weather backup plan.

…If applicable, let guests know if they will need transportation from the hotel to the venue or if you will provide it.

…Confirm staff/volunteer responsibilities.

…If possible, visit the venue to make sure you know exactly how you want to set up (tables, food, stage, etc.) An Event Designer at Ranch Events can help you do a walkthrough of the venue to determine where tables, etc. should be placed.

…Determine security needs.

Step 4.  Day of Your Event:

…Have all staff meeting early to make sure everyone is on the same page.

…Do a walk-through of your event.

…Listen to what people like and dislike. This way you can make your next event even better.

…Encourage your guests to be active on social media, which will help to promote your company.

Step 5. After Your Event

…Put together a video or article to put on your website highlighting the success of the event.

…Put pictures of your event in your company newsletter.

…Send thank you notes.

…Write up a report of what went right and wrong so that you do not make the same mistakes next time.

…Save all budget and vendor information, so that you can use it as a reference.

…Save any items that can be used again.

Although your timeline may vary depending on the scale of your event, it is important to follow the basic steps above. Planning a corporate event doesn’t have to be stressful. Ranch Events is a one-stop shop for most everything you need to create a successful and stress-free Corporate Event. Planning a successful corporate event will not only make you look good, but it will also benefit your employees, clients, and business. Remember, average events are quickly forgotten, but great events are remembered, along with you, for a very long time

[cameronwjones]

30 San Jose Event Venues That Your Attendees Will Love

San Jose is a beautiful city full of amazing event venues. But which location is right for your next gathering? Keep reading and we'll show you the 30 San Jose event venues you should be considering for your next get together.

San Jose is a large city with over one million residents, making it the third most populous city in California after Los Angeles and San Diego. It has a rich history having originally been founded in 1777 as the first city in the Californias, taken by Mexico in 1821, and ceded back to the United States in 1848.

Since that time, San Jose has exploded into an incredibly affluent city known for its innovation, comfortable Mediterranean climate, and wealthy inhabitants. Are you looking to host a business meeting, nationwide expo, or private party in the area? If so, you may be wondering which space to rent.

Choosing the right event venue can be difficult — especially in a city like San Jose where there are so many amazing options. You know that the perfect space for your unique gathering is out there, you just don't know where yet. Well, we're here to lend a helping hand!

The 30 venues listed below are the best San Jose event spaces available. We're sure you'll find the perfect location for your next shindig no matter what your event strategy is. So without further ado, let's get started.

30 Event Venues

1. Winchester Mystery House

Source: Winchester Mystery House

Location: Winchester Street

Capacity: 12 - 500

The Winchester Mystery House is the world renowned former home of Sarah Lockwood Pardee Winchester, heiress of the enormous Winchester Repeating Arms fortune. Unfortunately, tragedy struck Sarah's life when her husband passed away. This caused her to make the cross country move from Connecticut to San Jose, CA where she bought an eight-room farmhouse in 1988. She continuously renovated this home until her death in 1922.

Now, the house stands at 24,000 square feet and has 10,000 windows, 160 rooms, and 6 kitchens. Nobody knows why Sarah isolated herself from the world and devoted her life to building her home. But this mystery is one of the reasons the Winchester Mystery House is such an amazing event venue. You have the option of renting out the entire facility or just specific rooms. Whatever you decide, an event here will be unforgettable.

2. Club Auto Sport

Source: Club Auto Sport

Location: North San Jose

Capacity: 50 - 700

Sitting at the cross section of extraordinary, unique, and elegant is Club Auto Sport. The venue is really seven locations in one and features both indoor and outdoor entertaining areas. Host your guests in the clubhouse, an exotic car showroom with 10,000 square feet of space, 20-foot floor to ceiling windows, and state of the art AV equipment. Or use the TMFC Museum and patio complete with an outdoor fireplace and pizza oven.

There's plenty of space to host a memorable event, but for those looking to do it without the stress, the professional event specialists at Club Auto Sport can help. From corporate events to personal parties, Club Auto Sport is an amazing venue.

3. The Mountain Winery

Source: The Mountain Winery

Location: Saratoga, CA

Capacity: 2,500

Looking to just get away from it all for your next event? The Mountain Winery may be the perfect spot. Located in Saratoga, CA (just a half hour drive from downtown San Jose), this venue offers breathtaking views of Silicon Valley and exquisite wine tastings. Other perks include onsite parking, professional level AV equipment suitable for concerts, and WiFi.

This really is a one of a kind venue and that's why some of the world's biggest brands like Google, Netflix, Paypal, and Facebook have hosted corporate events here. But the venue is just as well suited for smaller private gatherings too. Whatever kind of event you plan to host, The Mountain Winery should be on your list of potential venues.

4. The GlassHouse

Source: GlassHouse

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 700

The GlassHouse is one of San Jose's premier event venues. It's also one of the largest in the heart of downtown boasting 12,000 square feet, three lounge areas, two dining areas, and a stunning outdoor patio. Your guests will feel glamorous when you host your corporate meeting, private dinner party, or seminar here due to the upscale and contemporary look.

But just because this venue is sleek and modern doesn't mean it has to stay that way. Event planners are free to create their own vision at the GlassHouse. Whatever your planning, this venue is ready to help make it memorable.

5. Corinthian Grand Ballroom

Source: Corinthian Grand Ballroom

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 700

The Corinthian Grand Ballroom is an elegant venue. But with a name like that, did you really expect anything different? Constructed in 1924 as a Scottish Rights Temple, the building was also used as a movie theater before 1982 when it became the event venue we know today.

From the stately pillars and front steps that will great your guests as they arrive, to the amazing chandeliers inside, the Corinthian Ballroom will delight each of your attendees. And to make the event planning process as convenient as possible, the on-site management team can help oversee operations and put you in touch with amazing vendors to ensure your shindig is a success.

6. SP2

Source: SP2

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 550

SP2 is an award-winning communal bar and restaurant that serves locally sourced, American bistro cuisine courtesy of head chef Paul Nuno and hand-crafted cocktails. The food alone is worth the rental, but that's not all that SP2 provides.

The 5,500 square foot brick and timber building is warm and inviting, and the 3,500 square foot outdoor patio is the perfect place to soak up that California sunshine. A state of the art AV system is also included with every rental. From cocktail parties to keynote speeches, host your next gathering at SP2.

7. Five Points

Source: Mercury News

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 200

Inspired by the legendary 19th century Five Points, New York neighborhood where folks of all kinds congregated, this cocktail bar has a unique vibe. The exposed brick, wood accents, and large lanterns lend a classy touch to each of this venue's three separate spaces. The Penny Room and the Bowery Room are available for small gatherings of up to 30 people.

If you need more space, the entire bar can be rented. Whether you're looking to host a business meeting, charity event, or private party, Five Points can accommodate.

8. Improv San Jose

Source: Improv San Jose

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 450

Like to laugh? Of course you do! Laughter is the medicine of life. With that in mind, why not host your next corporate meeting, fundraiser, or holiday party at the Improv in San Jose? The club gives event planners numerous food and cocktail options, access to a large parking lot, and the ability to host various forms of entertainment such as live bands, DJs, and, yes, comedians too. Give your event attendees a night of laughter at the Improv in San Jose.

9. History San Jose

Source: History San Jose

Location: Downtown and History Park

Capacity: 20 - 10,000

History San Jose is a network of three historic locations: History Park, Fallon House and Garden, and Peralta Adobe Grounds — and each is ready to host your next event. History park offers 14 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. It's a fantastic outdoor space that can accommodate thousands of people.

The Fallon House and Garden is an urban retreat in the middle of downtown and perfect for groups of 300 or less. And the Peralta Adobe Grounds sit at the oldest address in San Jose and works well for small themed parties.

10. Avaya Stadium

Source: Avaya Stadium

Location: Newhall

Capacity: 4,000

Avaya Stadium, home of the San Jose Quakes, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, is a great option for your next business meeting or cocktail party — especially if you're looking for larger event venues. The 7UP Epicenter can comfortably host up to 4,000 guests and is equipped with 18 HDTVs, WiFi, and on-site parking for every attendee.

Event planners also get custom catering options. But Avaya Stadium is a prime location for smaller gatherings as well. The indoor suites, Sky Lounge, and Audi Club are perfect for any event expecting somewhere between 20 and 150 guests.

11. Forager

Source: Forager

Location: SoFA

Capacity: 500

Forager is, in the venue’s own words, an "urban rustic venue" that's available for both private and semi-private events. If "urban rustic" is your idea of a great space for your next product launch, dinner party, or fundraiser (and why wouldn't it be?) then definitely keep Forager on your radar. The food is always great there and the atmosphere is fun. Other worthwhile perks include custom menus prepared by a professional chef, local beers on tap, and a full-service specialty coffee bar.

12. Skylonda Lodge

Source: Skylonda Lodge

Location: Woodside, CA

Capacity: 135

If your event needs a generous helping of calm and relaxation, host it at Skylonda Lodge, a luxurious retreat destination in Woodside, CA. Though this venue sits roughly 40 minutes away from San Jose, the beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere will be more than worth the short drive. That's why the rich and famous have been frequenting the lodge for decades.

There are two options at this location; check you and your crew in for a four-day wellness retreat that will leave you feeling energized and rejuvenated or simply rent the space for your corporate event and plan the activities yourself. Either way, your guest will love the chance to get away and enjoy the beauty and quiet.

13. SPACES

Source: SPACES

Location: Santana Row

Capacity: 200

SPACES offers "creative working environments with a unique entrepreneurial spirit." Beyond the typical "rent-a-desk" service they provide, event planners can also book entire meeting rooms for corporate events. Each room is designed to keep your team comfortable, creative, and focused. Rentals include AV equipment, whiteboards, and food/beverage services. If you're looking to host a quick seminar or just need to get out of the office for an afternoon, SPACES is a great option.

14. The Tech Museum of Innovation

Source: The Tech Museum of Innovation

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 2,500

Inspire the innovator in each of your guests and host your next event at The Tech Museum of Innovation. This unique venue reflects the creative spirit of Silicon Valley and features over 100 interactive exhibits. All in all, The Tech has 135,000 square feet of adaptable space and even includes an IMAX theater. Whether you want to go big or small, The Tech can accommodate and is a worthy location for corporate events, hackathons, training sessions, customer appreciation parties, and more. WiFi and AV equipment is provided.

15. Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden

Source: LawnStarter

Location: Palo Alto, CA

Capacity: 50

The main house at Elizabeth F. Gamble Gardens was built in 1902, the gardens that surround it were created in 1908, and the entire estate became public property in 1985. Today, a volunteer team of 300 dedicated people provides 35,000 hours of free labor on an annual basis to keep the estate functioning properly. That's good news for event planners. From corporate gatherings to wedding ceremonies, Gamble garden is an ideal location for intimate events.

16. Plumed Horse

Source: Plumed Horse

Location: Saratoga, CA

Capacity: 200

Plumed Horse is an up-scale, Michelin-starred restaurant owned and operated by the well respected chef, Peter Armellino. If you want to gift your event attendees with a true culinary treat, this is the place. Plumed Horse had five different space available for rent: Chef's Table, the Rose Room, the Gold Room, the Library, and the Main Dining area.

Each comes with its own perks, seating capacity, and cost, but every space will provide your event with an elegant setting. We recommend this venue for intimate events centered around a meal.

17. San Jose Country Club

Source: San Jose Country Club

Location: East Foothills

Capacity: 350

Fun fact: the San Jose Country Club was established in 1899 making it the fourth oldest country club in Northern California — and it's still going strong today! Events hosted here benefit from spectacular views of the golf course and numerous oak trees. The staff is highly trained and offers exceptional customer service. And the menu for your event can be customized to your exact specifications. It's a great location for any kind of corporate or personal event.

18. Scott's Seafood

Source: Scott's Seafood

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 500

Scott's Seafood is a "Bay Area tradition in the heart of San Jose." You know what? We have no problem keeping it traditional. Especially when the fresh, regional cuisine and expertly paired wine taste so good. Private events can be held in either the banquet room or on the rooftop patio. Both spaces include WiFi and AV equipment, but we recommend the rooftop patio due to its larger size, 18-foot fireplace, and views of the city.

19. San Jose Museum of Art

Source: SJMA

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 1,200

Looking to throw a ritzy, cultured event? Host it at an art museum like the San Jose Museum of Art. What's more refined than mingling with your friends, family, or colleagues amongst beautiful and timeless works of art? No matter what size gathering you plan to have or the reason for having it, SJMA is a worthy location worth serious consideration.

20. The San Jose McEnery Convention Center

Source: San Jose McEnery Convention Center

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 15,000

When you want to go big in San Jose (like, really big) you go with the San Jose McEnery Convention Center. Planning an international tech conference? How about a major industry trade show or a massive annual auto show? With over 500,000 square feet of meeting space and 43 breakout room, this venue can host it all with ease.

It's also located just 4 miles from the airport and near 4,000 hotel rooms, convenient for each of your out of town guests. But it's not just the size and location that makes this venue great. In 2013, the building underwent a 130 million dollar renovation. It's big, centrally located, and up to date with all the bells and whistles your event needs.

21. Pure Silicon Valley

Source: First Hold

Location: Sunnyvale, CA

Capacity: 600

Pure Silicon Valley is in the business of creating extraordinary events. It brings together high-quality hospitality, beautiful architecture, and first-class technology (including a confetti cannon!) to create a venue that's perfectly suited for customer and/or employee appreciation parties, product launches, holiday celebrations, and more. For one of a kind, upscale events with every modern touch imaginable, book Pure Silicon Valley.

22. Historic Coyote Ranch

Source: Wedding Spot

Location: Coyote, CA

Capacity: 5,000

Known for their old fashioned California hospitality, the Historic Coyote Ranch has been hosting events since the 1960s. Situated just south of the San Jose city limits, the Ranch is close enough to drive to but peacefully removed from the hustle and bustle that the Bay Area is known for.

An event at Coyote Ranch is a commitment to a good time. Their knowledgeable event staff will help plan the details for your event and offer plenty of entertainment options. Their onsite chefs will cook a delicious barbeque meal for your guests. All you have to do is relax and enjoy your business meeting, birthday party, or wedding reception.

23. Hotel Valencia - Santana Row

Source: Hotel Valencia

Location: Santana Row

Capacity: 285

The Hotel Valencia offers 4,000 square feet of flexible event space, a newly renovated ballroom, and an open-air courtyard. If that's not enough, event planners also get access to a professional conference service staff, the AV crew at Five Star Audio Visual, and meals cooked with locally grown, fresh produce.

Planning to host out of town guests? Book rooms for them at the Hotel also for the ultimate convenience. Whatever event you've created in your mind, Hotel Valencia can help make it a reality.

24. La Fondue

Source: La Fondue

Location: Saratoga, CA

Capacity: 250

La Fondue is a unique culinary experience. The restaurant serves over 50 different types of fondues in a relaxed atmosphere that's one part glamorous, one part classic, and 100% entertaining. Host your event here and get access to AV equipment and WiFi. For celebratory events, La Fondue is a fantastic option.

25. Mexican Heritage Plaza

Source: Mexican Heritage Plaza

Location: East San Jose

Capacity: 1,200

The Mexican Heritage Plaza is home to the School of Arts and Culture, a place of education that celebrates the diversity found in Silicon Valley. It's also a fantastic venue for your next event. There are 14 unique spaces including a pavilion with retractable glass walls, a lush garden, and a theater. From large corporate gatherings to intimate, personal celebrations, the Mexican Heritage Plaza is ready to accommodate.

26. Rookies Sports Lounge

Source: Rookies Sports Lounge

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 200

Rookies Sports Lounge in downtown San Jose is one of the areas newest bars. Event planners can rent the Luxury Box for intimate gatherings of 16 people or less, the covered patio for groups of 60, or the entire facility for larger get togethers. Being that it's a sports bar, TVs are in abundance and always have a game on. The food is tasty too. For laid back office lunches, team celebrations, or private parties, look into booking Rookies — especially if your attendees are big sports fans.

27. California Theater

Source: California Theater

Location: Downtown

Capacity: 1,122

Originally constructed in 1927 and renovated in the early 2000s, the California theater is a perfect marriage between classic architecture and modern attributes. It's available for movie screenings, concerts, business meetings, wedding ceremonies, and private parties. It also features world-class AV equipment and easy access to many fine entertainment and restaurant options in downtown San Jose. Host your next event in this beautiful slice of history.

28. Cinnabar Hills Golf Club

Source: Visit Silicon Valley

Location: South San Jose

Capacity: 250

Cinnabar Hills Golf Club is a golfer’s dream. It has 27 total holes for a combination of 6 different unique courses. But even if golf doesn't interest you or your guests, this location has a lot to offer. The views are incredible, the accommodations first-rate, and the staff friendly and knowledgeable. Book Cinnabar Hills for anything from small executive lunches to once in a lifetime wedding celebrations.

29. Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

Source: Yuggler

Location: San Jose, CA

Capacity: N/A

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo provides a truly "zoo-nique" experience. No matter what kind of gathering you have in mind, Happy Hollow can accommodate and make it noteworthy. Special perks include zoo attraction rides and animal visits available upon request. From birthday parties to corporate fundraisers, consider Happy Hollow Park and Zoo as your next event location.

30. Hakone

Source: TripAdvisor

Location: Saratoga, CA

Capacity: 250

Finally we have Hakone, one of the oldest Japanese estate and gardens in the Western hemisphere. It's a place of tranquility, peace, and harmony and perfect for any business meeting, seminar, or private party. The venue comes with comfortable seating, quality AV equipment, and catering options. If you want to host an amazing, stress-free event, Hakone may be the perfect location.

Finding Your San Jose Event Space

San Jose is home to some of the greatest event venues in California. We've listed 30 incredible locations above. Whether you plan to host a corporate or private affair, a giant, blowout gathering or a small intimate party, one of the venues mentioned above will fit the bill.

But remember, where you host your event is important, but it isn't everything. To truly plan and run a successful gathering you need event management software during every phase of the event process.

You may also be interested in:

San Francisco Event Venues

Los Angeles Event Venues

New York Event Venues

from Cameron Jones Updates https://blog.bizzabo.com/san-jose-event-venues