Those of you who know me know I love to host parties for clients and friends. It’s one of my favorite ways to keep in touch and building new relationships. Whether you’re an entertainer at heart like myself or prefer more intimate gatherings, you’ll find that following a few simple tips will ensure you get the most from your client parties.
1. Determine what type of event you’d like to have.
I find that in general casual and comfortable wins almost every time with clients. Are you going to celebrate someone or something? A simple networking event or place for people to catch up?2. Decide on your guest list.
Will you target mainly to adults,
or do you want to host a more family-oriented event? I used to host a mother
daughter high tea— you guessed it — women only. Don’t be afraid to mix up your guest list; even if you
invite friends AND clients, you’ll probably find that people have a way of
getting to know each other (or finding out all the connections they have in
common) once they arrive.
3. Find a Location.
Once you have figured out the type of event it's time to
find a location.
When I'm looking at locations, I keep in mind style and
price point. Make sure that the space is comfortable to you and that it matches
your personality, regardless of what everyone else is doing. You’ll have more
fun that way, and your clients will notice and have more fun too. I'm a huge
fan of trying new places such as small restaurants I can rent out, urban art
space and fun outdoor venues in the summer. It matches my personality and love
of the really unique spaces in my town and support for other small businesses.
If you like to entertain and feel comfortable opening your
home to guests, the most obvious choice for a party is your own home. In some cases, hosting an after-hours party right in your
office is the best way to guarantee a large showing of clients and associates.
It's also really cost effective. Mixers work great at a local restaurant or pub, where you
can set your own price range and they’ll help you select appetizers and drinks
within your budget.
If you really dislike planning, consider hiring a planner to
help you select a location and arrange the details for or with you depending on
how involved you want to be.
My signature party is the Michael & Erin Annual Holiday Extravaganza
Party, which my clients and friends have come to look forward to every year.
It's the one time a year my husband will put his culinary degree into high gear
and we work together to create an over the top magical event for our guests. I
think people love it so much because we are doing what we love and they get to
share the experience. But even a small dinner party or simple appetizers on the
back deck can convey your appreciation. I attend an amazing outdoor movie night
and BBQ that my rental company hosts for select clients at their home. It's
small, intimate, casual and ton of fun.
No matter the location, you are sure to wow your clients by
the simple act of hospitality.
4. The not so little details.
Elaborate party favors are out. Think simple, effective and
personal. Also make it a point to send a hand-written thank you note or other
token of your appreciation after the event.
With the social media push, you may also like to post the
event on Facebook, along with the invitation. Then follow up with pictures the
day after the event. (Don’t tag your guests, though — let them tag themselves —
and be sure to remove any photos immediately upon request if your guests feel
they are unflattering.)
A quick wrap up.
- Know your strengths and limitations. Go with your personality and use it to your advantage. If you like to entertain, bring it down to a personal level. If entertaining takes you out of your element, hire someone who can handle the details for you.
- Be present take this time to enjoy and engage your clients. This takes organizing the details before the party not during.
- If you have success, keep it consistent. Make it a bi-annual or annual event that clients can look forward to. It will become a part of your signature and word will get around.
Happy Planning,
Erin
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