Use these 4 easy tips to transform your next corporate event into a spectacular Gala Dinner.

Tip 1 – Make a great first impression

From the moment they arrive, your guests should know they are in for a fun, spectacular evening so choose decorations that create the WOW factor.

These days, event decorations are more than table centrepieces and chair sashes. They can include floral walls, trellised archways, plants and flowers suspended from the ceiling, chandeliers, candelabras, even tropical fish tanks and faux sand castles if they match the theme.

If you are hosting a themed Gala Dinner, the room decorations should immediately transport your guests. For example, if your theme is Under the Big Top, the décor should take your guests to the circus.

 

Tip 2 – A balanced mix of entertainment & conversation

Keep the WOW factor coming with carefully selected, jaw dropping entertainment. If your venue allows, consider aerial performers (they require high ceilings), acrobats, contortionists, fire eaters, stilt walkers and dancers. Hiring a comedian is another option to add fun and humour to your event.

Mix it up a little with a dance floor and music to keep your guests moving and energised. Depending on your budget, live musicians are always popular – especially if their music matches the theme of your Gala. Alternatively, hiring a DJ is a cost effective option and s/he will be able to play a variety of music to suit the tastes of your guests.

Try to balance all of this excitement with quieter periods so your guests can chat with each other and mingle between tables. Also allow time for speeches and presentations if required.

With many components to the entertainment, it’s a good idea to hire an experienced MC for the night. His or her role will be to direct your guests’ attention by introducing the entertainment and speakers as well as keeping the whole event flowing and on schedule.

 

Tip 3 – Choice of food and drinks

The food you serve your guests can make or break the success of a Gala Dinner so don’t skimp on the quality of the food served.

Table service is the norm, however some organisers choose dessert buffets as a way to get guests away from their table and mingling with each other.

Provide plenty of soft drinks to ensure each designated driver has plenty of non-alcoholic options. Soft drinks are also important for those guests who love to dance. They usually need a lot of rehydration.

 

Tip 4 – Ask for help

Gala Dinners require a great deal of organisation so ask for help from a committee or the venue itself.

WatervieW in Bicentennial Park provides a range of options for organisations wanting to hold a Gala Dinner. In addition, their experienced corporate event managers have the contacts to help you source anything you desire.

Enquire online for more information or call 02 9764 9900.