Last year, a local Manchester company surprised attendees with an unforgettable spy-themed corporate event spread across some of the city’s top landmarks – cracking codes at the National Football Museum, escaping locked rooms at Granada Studios, and mingling at a Peaky Blinders-inspired casino night.
Experiences like this showcase how Manchester provides an unparalleled backdrop for corporate events that keep guests raving for weeks, from its array of unique event venues to opportunities to seamlessly incorporate local culture.
This comprehensive blog makes planning extraordinary corporate events in Manchester achievable for any business. Follow our insider tips directly from Mancunian experts across event planning, venues and catering along with inventive Manchester-centric ideas to craft memorable five star events.
Book Iconic Venues Years in Advance
Popular historic venues like Manchester Central Library get booked up fast. We suggest connecting with venues early to reserve ideal dates.
Showcase Local Cuisine and Drinks
Work with caterers to develop menus featuring local favourites like proper Northern pies, Lancashire cheese, craft beers and ciders. It’s all about showcasing the city’s amazing food and drink scene.
Discover Intimate Hidden Gem Venues
Venture beyond the typical corporate event spaces to find unique intimate venues. Ancoats has brilliant restored canalside warehouses, while restaurants and shops can be rented out exclusively.
Tap Insider Knowledge on Local Talent
Leverage experienced planners’ connections to get the best photographers, bands, rentals, and staff. And always rely on a tight-knit group of talented vendors you’ve had vetted.
Keep Contingency Plans
Manchester’s unpredictable weather means having solid backup options for both indoor and outdoor elements.
Make it Uniquely Mancunian
Incorporate touches paying homage to Manchester’s culture, music, literary, and industrial heritage through themes, decor, cuisine and venues.
Transport Large Groups Easily
Manchester’s location and tram system makes moving large groups between events a breeze. Pro tip: Plan routes in advance and provide clear directions.
Get Venues’ Input on Event Plans
Get help to maximise spaces and receive guidance on what works well here from room layouts to catering.
Make your corporate event uniquely Mancunian with ideas like:
Looking to organise a Manchester corporate event yourself? Follow these hacks:
Follow this comprehensive 12-month timeline:
12 Months Out: Set goals, draft budget, research venues
9-11 Months Out: Book venue, compile vendor list
6-8 Months Out: Finalise agenda, book catering/rentals/A/V/entertainment
4-5 Months Out: Promote online, send save the dates
60-90 Days Out: Email invitations, order event supplies and decor
30 Days Out: Final walkthrough, build detailed schedule
Event Week: Reconfirm vendors, conduct rehearsals
Post Event: Get feedback, review budget
Check out our guide to top venues:
Manchester Central Library
– 60-300 capacity
– Central location
– Price: £1,500-£6,000
Science and Industry Museum
– 300-1,200 capacity
– Iconic machinery backdrop
– Price: £1,500-£25,000
The Monastery
– 50-400 capacity
– 14th century architecture
– Price: £1,500-£15,000
Victoria Baths
– 50-400 capacity
– Stained glass windows
– Price: £2,000-£6,000
20 Stories
– 50-150 capacity
– Rooftop terrace
– Price: £2,000-£7,500
Manchester Corporate Event Planners to Hire
Don’t go it alone, hire an expert like:
– Corporate Occasions
– Eventfully Yours
– Your Event Planners
– Manchester Events Group
With these insider tips, creative ideas, and resources, you can confidently plan showstopping corporate events in Manchester.
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