Non-traditional venues have a magic all their own and that magic can bring in the higher-value deals. Whether it’s the raw beauty of a historic warehouse or the unexpected charm of a neighborhood gallery, these Places have the power to create moments that people remember. But here’s the thing: if you want to attract and major corporate clients—the kind of planners working with big budgets and even bigger expectations—you need to go beyond just offering a space.
This is about creating an experience. It’s about understanding what these planners need, showing them how your Place aligns with their goals, and elevating your hospitality to meet the moment. In this article, we’ll walk through how to tell your venue’s story in a way that resonates, the kind of care and detail that seals the deal, and one real-world example of how we turned a site visit into a $1.2 million contract.
Why Your Place Stands Out
Corporate planners want venues that offer more than four walls and a podium. They’re looking for Places with personality, where every corner tells a story and every detail adds to the guest experience. What’s your unique value? Is it the raw charm of a repurposed factory? The way the light hits your courtyard at sunset? Or the team that turns ideas into reality?
Your story matters, but it matters even more when it’s told in a way that aligns with what corporate clients need. Make sure your sales people understand this!
Here is a great read about what event planners are looking for in 2025.
The Corporate Event Planner’s Checklist
Corporate planners are often managing tight budgets, high expectations, and a long list of stakeholders. Here’s how you can position your Place as the answer to their challenges:
1️⃣ Make It Easy to Say Yes: Have clear, professional packages ready for corporate clients, with options for customization to meet their needs. Even though sometimes these are complex deals, you can still work to minimize friction in the process.
2️⃣ Create an Experience That Reflects Their Brand: Show planners how your venue can align with their company’s vision. Offer creative ways to incorporate their brand through décor, lighting, or custom touches. This is the basis for high-value offers -- alignment with target market.
3️⃣ Demonstrate Professionalism: Corporate planners value responsiveness, clear communication, and detailed follow-ups. Make their job easier by anticipating their needs and offering solutions upfront. Show them you have the skill (and urgency) to make them a priority.
4️⃣ Invest in Technology: State-of-the-art A/V, reliable Wi-Fi, and seamless booking systems are non-negotiables. Highlight how your Place is equipped to meet these standards.
5️⃣ Bring in the Wow Factor: Whether it’s exclusive partnerships with local vendors or a signature experience (like a gallery walkthrough or custom cocktail tasting), show planners what makes your Place unforgettable.
Hospitality in Action: How We Secured a $1.2 Million Sales Deal
Here’s a story that changed everything: A major organization was scouting venues for their annual conference—a deal worth $1.2 million. During the site visit, we realized our usual hospitality wouldn’t cut it. They weren’t just looking for a functional space; they needed an experience that reflected their organization’s values and elevated their vision.
We didn’t just show them the venue; we immersed them in what their event could be. We set up a mini mock-up of the event, complete with curated décor, personalized welcome materials, and even a tailored menu featuring local flavors. We demonstrated how every detail, from lighting to seating arrangements, could align with their goals.
It wasn’t about showing what we had—it was about showing what THEY COULD HAVE. That moment of alignment sealed the deal, and the organization chose our Place for their event.
Why It’s All About Hospitality
Corporate event planners aren’t just booking for any old occasions; they’re creating experiences that reflect their brand’s values and reputation. Your job is to meet that need with graciousness, precision, and creativity. Every interaction—from the first inquiry to the final walkthrough—should make them feel like they’re working with a partner who understands their vision.
Events hosted with this level of care and alignment don’t just create one-time clients. They ripple outward, building your reputation and bringing in referrals from companies who can’t wait to share their experience with others.
Your Next Step: How are you telling your venue’s story to corporate planners? Are you meeting them where they are—and showing them how your Place can exceed their expectations?
Ready to Create Your Own Million-Dollar Deal?
Your Place has the potential to host unforgettable events—but are you telling the right story to attract high-value clients? Let’s explore how to elevate your hospitality, align with corporate planners’ needs, and turn site visits into signed contracts.
Let’s make your Place the one they can’t stop talking about.