event centre business plan

Event Venue Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Business Plan Outline

• Event Venue Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan

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Event Venue Business Plan

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Event Venue Business Plan Sample & Template

Below are links to each section of a sample plan that can be used as a template for your own plan:

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Event Space Business Plan FAQs

What is an event venue business plan.

A business plan is used to start and/or grow your venue. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan, and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your event venue business plan using our Event Venue Business Plan Template here .

What Are the Main Types of Event Venues?

There are many types of event venues. Some own one venue and rent it out for wedding receptions, corporate events, and other parties. Others have relationships with and rent out hotels, sports arenas, restaurants, and other venues which are desirable to their clientele.

What Are the Main Sources of Revenues and Expenses for an Event Space?

The primary source of revenue for event venues is booking fees paid by clients. Sometimes event spaces also generate revenue from catering events and providing entertainment at them.

The key expenses for event venues are the cost of leasing the venue(s) and staffing costs, particularly if they provide services during the events.

Read more about how to get funding: Seeking Funding from Angel Investors vs Venture Capitalists .

How Do You Get Funding for Your Event Venue Business Plan?

Event venues are most likely to receive funding from banks. Typically you will find a local bank and present your plan to them. Angel investors and credit card financing are other common funding sources.

What are the Steps To Start an Event Venue Business?

Starting an event venue business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop An Event Venue Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed event venue business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your event venue business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your event venue business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Event Venue Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your event venue business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your event venue business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Event Venue Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your event venue business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your event venue business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful event venue business:

• How to Start an Event Venue Business

Where Can I Get an Event Venue Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free  event venue business plan template PDF here . This is a sample event venue business plan template you can use in PDF format.

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Event Venue Business Plan: How to Start and Grow Your Event Space Business

Are you looking for a way to turn your passion for hosting events into a profitable business? Do you want to know how to create a successful event venue business plan that will attract investors and customers? If so, you are in the right place.

In this article, we will show you how to start and grow your event space business with a comprehensive and professional business plan. We will also provide you with a free business plan template and examples that you can download and customize for your own needs.

What is an Event Venue Business?

An event venue business is a company that provides a space for hosting various types of events, such as weddings, corporate meetings, social gatherings, sports events, and more. An event venue business can offer different services and amenities, such as catering, entertainment, equipment rental, security, parking, and more.

An event venue business can be a lucrative and rewarding venture, as it can generate multiple streams of income from different clients and events. However, it also requires a lot of planning, investment, marketing, and management to succeed in a competitive market.

Why Do You Need an Event Venue Business Plan?

A business plan is a document that describes your business goals, strategies, market analysis, financial projections, and operational details. It is essential for any type of business, especially for an event venue business, because:

• It helps you clarify your vision and mission for your business
• It helps you identify your target market and competitive advantage
• It helps you plan your marketing and sales strategies
• It helps you estimate your startup and operational costs
• It helps you forecast your revenue and profit potential
• It helps you attract funding from investors or lenders
• It helps you monitor and evaluate your progress and performance

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How to Create an Event Venue Business Plan?

Creating an event venue business plan can be a daunting task, but it can be simplified by following these steps:

Executive Summary: This is a brief overview of your business plan that summarizes your business idea, goals, market opportunity, competitive edge, funding request, and financial highlights. It should be written last after you have completed the rest of the sections. Learn more on business plan executive summary .

Company Overview: This is where you introduce your company name legal structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, etc.), ownership (who owns the company), history (when and how it was founded), vision (what you want to achieve) and mission (how you want to achieve it). Check our detailed guide on business plan company overview .

Industry Analysis: This is where you analyze the current trends and outlook of the event venue industry in your area or country. You should include information such as the size, growth, demand, supply, segmentation and profitability of the industry. You should also identify the opportunities and threats that affect your business. Read more on business plan industry analysis .

Competitive Analysis: This is where you identify and evaluate your direct and indirect competitors in the event venue market. You should include information such as their names, locations, services, prices, strengths, and weaknesses. You should also explain how you plan to differentiate yourself from them and gain a competitive advantage. Learn more on business plan competitive analysis .

Customer Analysis: This is where you define and describe your target market segments and customers. You should include information such as their demographics (age, gender, income, etc.), psychographics (interests, preferences, etc.), behavior (how they search for and book event venues), needs (what they want from an event venue) and pain points (what problems they face with event venues). You should also explain how you plan to reach them and satisfy them with your services. 

Operations Plan: This is where you describe how you will run your event venue business on a daily basis. You should include information such as your location (where your event space is located), facilities (what features and amenities your event space offers), equipment (what tools and machines you need to operate), suppliers (who provides you with goods or services), staff (how many people you need to hire and what roles they perform), processes (how you deliver your services) and quality control (how you ensure customer satisfaction). Do you want to explore more, find how operations plan works in business plan .

Marketing Plan: This is where you outline how you will promote your event venue business to attract customers. You should include information such as your marketing objectives (what you want to achieve with your marketing efforts), marketing strategies (how you will use the 4Ps of marketing: product, price, place, and promotion), marketing channels (where you will advertise or communicate with your customers), marketing budget (how much money you will spend on marketing) and marketing metrics (how you will measure the effectiveness of your marketing).Find our guide on what to include in  marketing plan in business plan .

Funding Request: This is where you state how much money you need to start and run your event venue business, and how you plan to use it. You should include information such as your funding sources (where you will get the money from), your funding needs (how much money you need for each purpose), your funding terms (what interest rate, repayment period, and collateral you offer), and your funding projections (how the funding will affect your financial performance).

Financial Plan: This is where you provide the financial statements and forecasts for your event venue business. You should include information such as your income statement (showing your revenue, expenses, and profit), your balance sheet (showing your assets, liabilities, and equity), your cash flow statement (showing your cash inflows and outflows), and your break-even analysis (showing when you will start making a profit). You should also include some financial ratios (such as profitability, liquidity, and solvency) and assumptions (such as growth rate, inflation rate, and tax rate) that support your financial plan. Read more on what to include in  business plan financial plan .

Appendix: This is where you attach any additional documents or information that support your business plan, such as market research data, customer testimonials, legal documents, resumes of key personnel, contracts, licenses, permits, etc. Check more details on what to include in business plan appendix .

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Where can you get an event venue business plan template and example.

If you want to save time and effort in creating your event venue business plan, you can use a template or an example that has already been prepared for you. The following is a free event venue business plan template and an example that you can download.

• Event Venue Business Plan Template
• Event Venue Business Plan Example

These templates and examples are easy to use and customize for your own needs. They also include tips and guidance on how to write each section of your business plan.

Hire a professional who makes business plan!

Examples of event venue business plans that will assist you in writing yours.

I will give you an example with each section of Oren Co, which is an event venue business that specializes in hosting outdoor events. Here is an example:

Event Venue Business Plan: Oren Co

Executive summary.

Oren Co is a new event venue business that offers a unique and natural setting for hosting various types of outdoor events, such as weddings, corporate retreats, festivals, concerts, and more. Oren Co is located in Washington USA and operates on a 10-acre land that features a lush garden, a pond, a gazebo, a stage, a tent and other amenities. Oren Co aims to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience for its clients and guests, while also being environmentally friendly and socially responsible.

Oren Co has identified a growing demand for outdoor event venues in its area, as more people are looking for alternative and creative ways to celebrate their special occasions. Oren Co has also conducted thorough market research and competitive analysis and has found that it has a strong competitive edge over its rivals, as it offers a unique and natural setting, a variety of services and packages, affordable prices, and excellent customer service.

Oren Co is seeking $100,000 in funding to start and grow its business. The funding will be used for purchasing equipment, hiring staff, marketing and advertising, and working capital. Oren Co expects to generate $300,000 in revenue and $50,000 in profit in its first year of operation, and to break even in its second year. Oren Co also projects to increase its revenue and profit by 20% annually in the following years.

Company Overview

Oren Co is a sole proprietorship owned and operated by Mr. Oren Khan, who has over 10 years of experience in the event management industry. Mr. Khan has worked as an event planner, coordinator and manager for various companies and organizations, such as WiseBusinessPlans, Eventful Solutions and Washington USA Tourism Board. Mr. Khan has also organized and hosted several successful outdoor events for his own clients, such as weddings, corporate retreats, festivals and concerts.

Oren Co was founded in August 2023, after Mr. Khan acquired a 10-acre land in Washington USA that was previously used as a farm. Mr. Khan saw the potential of transforming the land into an event venue that could cater to the growing demand for outdoor events in his area. Mr. Khan invested $50,000 of his own savings to renovate the land and equip it with the necessary facilities and amenities for hosting events.

Oren Co’s vision is to become the leading provider of outdoor event venues in Washington USA and beyond. Oren Co’s mission is to offer a unique and natural setting for hosting various types of outdoor events, while providing high-quality services, affordable prices, and excellent customer service.

Industry Analysis

The event venue industry is a subset of the broader event management industry, which includes planning, organizing and hosting various types of events for different purposes and audiences. The event venue industry consists of companies that provide spaces for hosting events, such as hotels, resorts, convention centers, banquet halls, stadiums, theaters, etc.

According to IBISWorld, the global event management industry was worth $1.1 trillion in 2020 and is expected to grow at an annual rate of 3.6% from 2021 to 2026. The growth of the industry is driven by factors such as increasing disposable income, urbanization, globalization, technological innovation and social media. The industry is also influenced by trends such as personalization, sustainability, diversity and creativity.

The event venue industry in USA is a growing and profitable segment of the event management industry. According to Market Research Future, the event management market in USA was worth $1.2 billion in 2019, and is expected to grow at an annual rate of 8.2% from 2020 to 2025. The growth of the market is driven by factors such as increasing population, economic development, cultural diversity, tourism and entertainment.

The event venue industry in USA is also experiencing a shift in consumer preferences and behavior, as more people are looking for alternative and creative ways to celebrate their special occasions. According to a survey by Eventbrite, 78% of USA consumers prefer to spend money on experiences rather than things, and 72% of them are interested in attending outdoor events. Moreover, according to a report by Event Industry News, outdoor events are becoming more popular and profitable in USA, as they offer more flexibility, variety and affordability than indoor events.

Competitive Analysis

Oren Co faces competition from other event venue providers in its area, both direct and indirect. The direct competitors are those that offer similar services and cater to the same target market as Oren Co, such as outdoor event venues, parks, gardens etc. The indirect competitors are those that offer different services but cater to the same target market as Oren Co, such as indoor event venues, hotels, resorts etc.

Some of the main direct competitors of Oren Co are:

Green Valley: This is an outdoor event venue that offers a green and spacious setting for hosting weddings, parties, corporate events and more. It is located in Lahore, about 50 km from Oren Co’s location. It has a capacity of up to 500 guests, and offers services such as catering, decoration, entertainment, photography etc. It charges an average of $2,000 per event. Royal Garden: This is an outdoor event venue that offers a royal and elegant setting for hosting weddings, parties, corporate events and more. It is located in Islamabad, about 100 km from Oren Co’s location. It has a capacity of up to 1,000 guests, and offers services such as catering, decoration, entertainment, photography etc. It charges an average of $3,000 per event. Dreamland: This is an outdoor event venue that offers a dreamy and romantic setting for hosting weddings, parties, corporate events and more. It is located in Faisalabad, about 150 km from Oren Co’s location. It has a capacity of up to 800 guests, and offers services such as catering, decoration, entertainment, photography etc. It charges an average of $2,500 per event.

Some of the main indirect competitors of Oren Co are:

Pearl Hotel: This is an indoor event venue that offers a luxurious and modern setting for hosting weddings, parties, corporate events and more. It is located in Lahore, about 50 km from Oren Co’s location. It has a capacity of up to 500 guests, and offers services such as catering, accommodation, entertainment, photography etc. It charges an average of $4,000 per event. Grand Resort: This is an indoor event venue that offers a grand and elegant setting for hosting weddings, parties, corporate events and more. It is located in Islamabad, about 100 km from Oren Co’s location. It has a capacity of up to 1,000 guests, and offers services such as catering, accommodation, entertainment, photography etc. It charges an average of $5,000 per event. Paradise Hall: This is an indoor event venue that offers a simple and affordable setting for hosting weddings, parties, corporate events and more. It is located in Faisalabad, about 150 km from Oren Co’s location. It has a capacity of up to 800 guests, and offers services such as catering, decoration, entertainment, photography etc. It charges an average of $1,500 per event.

Oren Co has a strong competitive edge over its rivals, as it offers a unique and natural setting that appeals to the growing demand for outdoor events in its area. Oren Co also offers a variety of services and packages that suit different needs and budgets of its clients. Oren Co also offers affordable prices and excellent customer service that ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Customer Analysis

Oren Co’s target market consists of individuals and organizations that are looking for an outdoor event venue for hosting various types of events, such as weddings, parties, corporate retreats, festivals, concerts etc. Oren Co’s target market can be segmented into two main groups: personal customers and business customers.

Personal customers are those who are looking for an outdoor event venue for hosting their personal or social events, such as weddings, parties, anniversaries etc. These customers are mainly motivated by factors such as personal preference, emotional value, social status and word-of-mouth. These customers are mainly located in Washington USA and nearby regions, and have an average income of $10,000 per year.

Business customers are those who are looking for an outdoor event venue for hosting their business or professional events, such as corporate retreats, team building activities such as corporate retreats, team-building activities, seminars, workshops etc. These customers are mainly motivated by factors such as business objectives, cost-effectiveness, convenience and reputation. These customers are mainly located in Washington USA and nearby regions and have an average income of $50,000 per year.

Oren Co’s target market is large and growing, as more people and organizations are looking for alternative and creative ways to celebrate their special occasions. According to a report by Event Industry News, the outdoor event market in USA is expected to grow at an annual rate of 10% from 2020 to 2025. Oren Co’s target market is also profitable, as the average spending per event is $2,500 for personal customers and $5,000 for business customers.

Oren Co’s target market is also accessible and reachable, as Oren Co can use various channels and methods to promote its services and attract its customers, such as online platforms, social media, referrals, partnerships etc. Oren Co can also leverage its location advantage, as it is situated in a strategic and convenient location that is easily accessible by road and public transportation.

Marketing Plan

Oren Co’s marketing plan consists of four main elements: product, price, place and promotion.

Product: Oren Co’s product is its outdoor event venue that offers a unique and natural setting for hosting various types of events. Oren Co’s product also includes its services and packages that provide catering, decoration, entertainment, photography and other amenities for its clients and guests. Oren Co’s product is designed to meet the needs and expectations of its target market, as it offers flexibility, variety and affordability.

Price: Oren Co’s price strategy is to offer competitive and reasonable prices that reflect the value and quality of its product. Oren Co’s price strategy also aims to attract and retain its customers, as well as to generate revenue and profit for its business. Oren Co’s price strategy is based on factors such as market demand, competitor prices, cost of production and profit margin. Oren Co’s average price per event is $2,500 for personal customers and $5,000 for business customers.

Place: Oren Co’s place strategy is to distribute its product through its own physical location that serves as its outdoor event venue. Oren Co’s place strategy also involves using online platforms such as its website and social media accounts to showcase its product and communicate with its customers. Oren Co’s place strategy is intended to make its product available and accessible to its target market, as well as to create a positive image and reputation for its business.

Promotion: Oren Co’s promotion strategy is to use various channels and methods to advertise and promote its product and business to its target market. Oren Co’s promotion strategy also aims to create awareness, interest and desire for its product, as well as to encourage action and loyalty from its customers. Oren Co’s promotion strategy includes the following activities:

Online marketing: Oren Co will use online platforms such as its website, social media accounts, email newsletters, blogs etc. to showcase its product, share its stories, testimonials and reviews, offer discounts and incentives, and interact with its customers and potential customers.

Offline marketing: Oren Co will use offline channels such as flyers, brochures, banners, posters etc. to display its product, highlight its features and benefits, and provide its contact details and location. Referral marketing: Oren Co will use word-of-mouth and referrals to spread the word about its product and business, and to generate positive feedback and recommendations from its customers and partners. Oren Co will also offer rewards and incentives for referrals, such as discounts, vouchers, freebies etc.

Partnership marketing: Oren Co will partner with other businesses and organizations that are related or complementary to its product and target market, such as event planners, caterers, decorators, entertainers, photographers etc. Oren Co will also partner with local media outlets, influencers, celebrities etc. to gain exposure and publicity for its product and business.

Financial Plan

Oren Co’s financial plan consists of three main components: startup costs, income statement and cash flow statement.

Startup costs: Oren Co’s startup costs are the expenses that are required to start and launch its business. Oren Co’s startup costs include the following items:

Equipment: This includes the purchase of equipment such as tables, chairs, tents, stage, sound system, etc. The total cost of equipment is $30,000.

Staff: This includes the hiring of staff such as event manager, event coordinator, event staff etc. The total cost of staff is $10,000.

Marketing: This includes the expenses for marketing activities such as online marketing, offline marketing, referral marketing and partnership marketing. The total cost of marketing is $5,000.

Legal: This includes the fees for legal services such as registration, licensing, permits etc. The total cost of legal is $2,000. Miscellaneous: This includes the costs for other items such as insurance, utilities, maintenance etc. The total cost of miscellaneous is $3,000. The total startup costs for Oren Co are $50,000.

Income statement: Oren Co’s income statement is a summary of its revenue and expenses for a given period of time. Oren Co’s income statement for the first year of operation is as follows:

Revenue: This is the amount of money that Oren Co earns from its product sales. Oren Co’s revenue is calculated by multiplying the number of events by the average price per event. Oren Co expects to host 100 events in the first year, with an average price of $3,500 per event. Therefore, Oren Co’s revenue for the first year is $350,000.

Expenses: This is the amount of money that Oren Co spends on its business operations. Oren Co’s expenses include the following items:

Cost of goods sold: This is the cost of producing and delivering its product. Oren Co’s cost of goods sold is calculated by multiplying the number of events by the average cost per event. Oren Co estimates that the average cost per event is $1,500, which includes the costs of catering, decoration, entertainment, photography and other amenities. Therefore, Oren Co’s cost of goods sold for the first year is $150,000.

Operating expenses: This is the cost of running and managing its business. Oren Co’s operating expenses include the following items:

Staff: This is the cost of paying salaries and wages to its staff. Oren Co estimates that it will have 10 staff members in the first year, with an average salary of $1,000 per month. Therefore, Oren Co’s staff expense for the first year is $120,000.

Marketing: This is the cost of conducting marketing activities to promote its product and business. Oren Co estimates that it will spend 10% of its revenue on marketing in the first year. Therefore, Oren Co’s marketing expense for the first year is $35,000.

Legal: This is the cost of paying fees for legal services such as registration, licensing, permits etc. Oren Co estimates that it will spend 5% of its startup costs on legal in the first year. Therefore, Oren Co’s legal expense for the first year is $2,500.

Miscellaneous: This is the cost of paying for other items such as insurance, utilities, maintenance etc. Oren Co estimates that it will spend 5% of its revenue on miscellaneous in the first year. Therefore, Oren Co’s miscellaneous expense for the first year is $17,500.

The total expenses for Oren Co are $325,000.

Profit: This is the amount of money that Oren Co earns after deducting its expenses from its revenue. Oren Co’s profit is calculated by subtracting its expenses from its revenue. Therefore, Oren Co’s profit for the first year is $25,000. Cash flow statement: Oren Co’s cash flow statement is a report of its cash inflows and outflows for a given period of time. Oren Co’s cash flow statement for the first year of operation is as follows:

Cash inflows: This is the amount of money that Oren Co receives from its product sales and other sources. Oren Co’s cash inflows include the following items:

Revenue: This is the same as the revenue in the income statement. Oren Co’s revenue for the first year is $350,000. Loans: This is the amount of money that Oren Co borrows from banks or other lenders to finance its startup costs and working capital. Oren Co plans to obtain a loan of $40,000 with an interest rate of 10% per annum and a repayment period of 5 years. Therefore, Oren Co’s loan inflow for the first year is $40,000. The total cash inflows for Oren Co are $390,000.

Cash outflows: This is the amount of money that Oren Co spends on its business operations and other purposes. Oren Co’s cash outflows include the following items:

Startup costs: This is the same as the startup costs in the financial plan. Oren Co’s startup costs are $50,000. Expenses: This is the same as the expenses in the income statement. Oren Co’s expenses for the first year are $325,000. Loan repayments: This is the amount of money that Oren Co pays back to its lenders for its loan principal and interest. Oren Co’s loan repayments are calculated by using an amortization table. According to the table, Oren Co’s loan repayments for the first year are $10,200.

The total cash outflows for Oren Co are $385,200.

Net cash flow: This is the amount of money that Oren Co has left over after subtracting its cash outflows from its cash inflows. Oren Co’s net cash flow is calculated by subtracting its cash outflows from its cash inflows. Therefore, Oren Co’s net cash flow for the first year is $4,800.

Oren Co is a new business that offers an outdoor event venue for hosting various types of events in Washington USA. Oren Co has a strong competitive edge over its rivals, as it offers a unique and natural setting that appeals to the growing demand for outdoor events in its area. Oren Co also has a large and profitable target market that consists of individuals and organizations that are looking for an alternative and creative way to celebrate their special occasions. Oren Co also has a comprehensive marketing plan that uses various channels and methods to advertise and promote its product and business to its target market. Oren Co also has a realistic financial plan that shows its revenue and expenses projections, as well as its cash flow analysis. Oren Co expects to generate a profit of $25,000 and a net cash flow of $4,800 in the first year of operation.

Oren Co is confident that it can achieve its goals and objectives, as it has a clear vision, mission and values that guide its business decisions and actions. Oren Co also has a dedicated and experienced team that works hard to deliver high-quality products and services to its customers and guests. Oren Co also has a positive and optimistic attitude that helps it overcome any challenges or difficulties that it may face along the way.

Oren Co hopes that this business plan will convince potential investors and partners to support its business venture and help it grow and succeed in the outdoor event industry.

Learn how to write business plan!

Event venue business plan faqs.

Permits and licenses vary by location, but generally, you’ll need a business license, zoning permits, health and safety permits, and possibly a liquor license.

Use online platforms like your website and social media, offer competitive pricing, exceptional customer service, and network with event planners and industry professionals.

Effective strategies include having a visually appealing website, utilizing social media, collaborating with local event vendors, hosting open houses, and offering discounts for initial bookings.

Clear communication with clients, comprehensive event contracts, detailed checklists, and assigning a dedicated event coordinator or team are essential for managing event logistics.

Typical costs include rent/mortgage payments, utilities, insurance, maintenance, marketing, staff salaries, and event-specific expenses like catering and audiovisual equipment.

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Fresh insights and best practices for event professionals.

How to Start an Event Venue Business: Two Experts Share 20 Secrets for Opening an Event Space

by Amanda Knaebel | Jan 13, 2021 | Best Practices , Business , Business Management , Catering , Event Vendors and Suppliers , Event Venues , Marketing , Sales , Tech , Tools and Software , Venues

Opening an event venue comes with a long checklist of items that must be in place for a successful launch … and chances are, as a new event space entrepreneur, you’ve probably already read a dozen or so articles that have run you through the basics.

But while these checklist articles can be helpful, they don’t answer the one vital question you should be asking: “What things do seasoned experts know that I don’t about how to successfully launch a venue and be profitable in Year 1?”

Of course hindsight is always 20/20, but when you’re in the midst of starting an event venue and you are new to this, you simply don’t know what you don’t know. 

To help you fill in those gaps and provide you with new insights that aren’t already on your to-do list, we interviewed two of our clients and long-time industry pros to tell us the secrets that helped them along the way and maybe a few things they wish they would’ve known when starting an event space business. 

Join us as Dianne Kohler, CEO of Camrose Regional Exhibition Center, and Michael Hallford, CEO of Hallford & Hallford event and venue management firm, open the vault on their most-valued industry secrets for launching a new venue.

Building out your processes and internal operations ahead of time is critical to generating revenue as you prepare to open your new venue. Planning Pod’s all-in-one platform gives new event facilities 20+ easy-to-use tools to set up systems for managing booking calendars, sales, client communications, contracts, billing, payments and more. Sign up for a free trial today!

#1 – Researching your target audience, competition and location area is easily the most important step in opening a new venue

Chances are you’ve come across plenty of articles that mention you should evaluate the competitive landscape and identify your ideal client base. But according to Dianne and Michael, this isn’t just another item on a list … in fact, it should take priority over just about everything else, because if you don’t get this right, your new venue won’t be in business long.

“Before you write out your business plan, you need to already know who your target audience is, and that’s who you build your venue for, so this starts with research long before you build or buy a venue,” said Michael. 

Michael also warns about automatically trying to go for the clients with the deepest pockets. 

“Keep in mind that your target audience doesn’t necessarily have to be your wealthy ‘Beverly Hills’ type client because that audience isn’t necessarily your highest profit margin,” he added. “Those luxury clients tend to be really demanding and expect a lot. And if they don’t get it the way they think they should get it, then you’re going to have issues afterward with PR. That’s just not something you want to have to deal with.”

“Your best market is probably going to be whoever is the largest demographic in your area who is willing to pay for your services. But you need to plan for that. You’ve got to know what they want, how they want it, when they want it, and why they want it. Then, be prepared to meet those needs as you put together your business plan and buildout plan.”

Dianne agrees that assessing your target audience’s needs and what venue options are already in the area should be done long before you lay a single brick for your new conference center or event space.

“Knowing your market is the number one thing that’s most critical to succeeding with a new facility,” said Dianne. “Because if you don’t understand what the market expects or wants from you, how are you going to provide it? You do this by doing a market needs assessment on other existing venues and the population and demographics in your surrounding community of who you want to sell to.

She also credits thorough upfront planning as an indicator for an event center that will both launch successfully and survive the long term, a challenge for all new small business owners. 

“If you’re building a new venue, you’re building something based on your demographic’s needs for the next 10 years,” she said. “To do this, you need to reach out to your target market and ask them questions and collect data, because the more data you can get before you build or buy a venue, the better.”

“The type of venue you buy or build depends on their needs and the needs of the community you serve. Yes, maybe nobody in the area has a ballroom that’s 30,000 square feet. But are there events that require a ballroom with 30,000 square feet? These are the things you need to consider.”

“All this market research and data is then going to drive your marketing engine for when you’re getting ready to launch.”

#2 – Devising a business plan makes the process of launching an event space business vastly smoother

Once you’ve narrowed in on your audience, you should focus next on developing your business plan. This document can be quite lengthy and in-depth because it fleshes out every detail regarding your venue business – from facility and organizational structure to finances, budgets and marketing. And just like with your target audience, it should be well-researched and realistic if you want it to be useful.

“A business plan is a must, and your plan must budget for covering your first six months of business expenses with zero or little income, just in case,” said Michael. “You should also plan for overages in construction, like around 30%, as that’s just normal.”

In addition to understanding how you’re going to build a special events venue for your ideal client (and what that’s going to cost), you should narrow in on how you will market them.  

“Along with your business plan you have to have a marketing plan that outlines your marketing, branding, PR goals and expenditures, including the few months prior to opening day,” added Michael. 

#3 – Getting your pricing right will prevent lost business and vanishing margins

Before scheduling your first customer walkthrough or booking your first party, make sure your pricing is dialed in properly. Are you charging too much? Are you charging enough? Dianne says that understanding your target audience’s needs, your competitors’ price points and your cost of operations (overhead, mortgage/rent payments, staffing, food and beverage costs, utilities, cleaning, out-of-pocket rentals, etc.) will help you develop the perfect price point that will make your customers happy and keep your venue in business.

“An important part of your business plan is setting your pricing and this goes back to knowing your market,” Dianne reminds us. “What are your clients willing to pay for your services and how are you going to provide real value to them?

“Your market survey and research should include your competitors’ pricing to make sure your pricing is in line with what others charge for similar services. If you want to charge a premium, justify why you can charge it. If you charge less or at a discount, why would you do that and why will it serve the business better?”

One tactic that some new business owners of venues take is to start out by setting their prices lower in order to land more event clients out of the gate (but not so low that you are losing money) and then adjusting their rates upward once cash is flowing regularly.

However, these are all questions you need to ask yourself before pricing and pitching your space.

#4 – Planning out your space thoroughly before you build will add value for your customers

Designing a banquet hall may seem straightforward (just provide ample room for social events and corporate events, right?) but Michael warns that not thoroughly thinking through your design pre-construction can leave you wishing you would have made different decisions.

“If you are in pre-build, the most important step is that you really need to plan your space,” said Michael. “You have to have a plan for adequate storage, proper ingress and egress, about what your fire marshal and local building codes are going to require, how much office area you will need, and if you are going to need a full kitchen or prep kitchen.”

You should also consider what are going to be the biggest elements of your design with regard to ergonomics and those areas where clients and guests expect high quality. 

“An example of this is that people really care a lot about venue washrooms and want them to be bigger, clean and nice. So you should invest more there,” suggests Michael. “If you are going to have food and beverage on site, those are probably two of the biggest things that customers will remember after they leave the event, so those should also take priority in your building and preparation.”

Michael stresses that thinking through these things before you engage a construction contractor will save you many headaches during operations and prevent a remodel down the line. From capacity minimums and maximums down to the number of doorways you will need, “It’s really getting to those fine details, before you actually even design a space. You have to plan for how the space is going to be used.”

And while you’re planning, be sure to add in a little extra room for storage. 

“Surprisingly, you actually need a lot of storage,” exclaimed Michael. “Tables, chairs, linens, staging, dance floors, even just your daily products like cleaners and mop buckets, all of that has to go somewhere. And the worst thing to do is to build a venue and not have enough space for your items.”

#5 – Surprise your clients with unique and flexible design elements

When building and designing your space, Dianne recommends giving it a unique element while leaving room for flexibility for all types of events and setups. She mentioned that over the last five years, more and more event planners and their clients have been searching for places that are unique and new.

“One thing with venues that has been trending for the last five years and will continue is the demand for unique spaces,” said Dianne. “Clients don’t want to book events in empty, spare looking ballrooms or meeting rooms. They want a unique space that is maybe shaped differently or has interesting grounds or flexible decor. So you should consider far in advance what could you add into your space to make it unique for your audience. It doesn’t have to be crazy and cost crazy money. Maybe it’s interesting paint choices or programmable uplighting or downlighting.”

With people really looking to bring the wow factor to their event and to post it on social media, they need an event space that is unique enough to stand out amongst the sea of conference centers, but is also flexible enough to be completely reimagined to meet an event planner’s vision.

“You also want to make your space sizable and flexible for different sizes of groups so you can host groups of 25 as easy as you can 500,” said Dianne. Which means you may need to consider dividable spaces that you can partition off for smaller groups or for hosting multiple parties that can overlap.

#6 – Decide early on if you are a venue rental business or event producer (or both)?

If you’re running a wedding venue or party venue, you’re going to have slower off seasons – times when your event space may sit empty. So, you’ll need to account for how you will handle those empty calendar days.

“As a venue manager, you understand that it’s normal that you’re going to have dark periods where nobody’s renting,” said Dianne. “So, you have to make the determination early. Are you going to rent? Are you going to just ride through the dark areas? Or are you going to get into self production as a way to fill the space on typically dark nights and boost overall revenue? It’s part of the planning process to consider this.”

Some venue owners do decide to cushion their wedding receptions and private events bookings with their own productions (like music performances, seasonal parties and staged shows) on days that their venue tends to sit unoccupied. It can be a great way to cushion income and even perhaps draw in new business, but will take additional resources, marketing and event planning.

Also, if you offer full catering services, you may want to consider offering off-premise catering to maximize revenue from your full-service kitchen (but remember that this comes with its own costs and challenges like maintaining a full-time kitchen staff, marketing, delivery, etc.).

#7 – If something isn’t right with your buildout, speak up with your contractor now (or risk living with elements that turn off your clients)

“Once you’re in the building phase, be very, very picky with your contractors,” said Michael. “If it’s not done exactly the way you want it done, have them redo it. This has got to be part of your contract with each vendor, whether you’re using a general contractor, or you’re contracting things out yourself.

“So if you’ve got a trim carpenter who’s doing crown molding, and there’s a little gap, well that needs to be filled and resanded and repainted. You don’t pay them their last dollar until every single thing is done to your liking.

Reserving the right to thoroughly inspect the work of your contractors, and even stop them in their process to change or correct something, will ensure that your build is completed exactly how you (and your potential clients) envision it. Remember, even if you aren’t being nitpicky, your guests and customers will be, and shoddy workmanship can lead to clients taking a pass on leasing your space.

#8 – Design your venue to impress your most difficult client

When designing, building and finalizing your event venue, you have to oversee the buildout or remodel with the eye of your most difficult customer in mind, says Michael. 

“You’ve got to think about what your most discriminating client is going to look for when they walk through your doors, and you must have that covered,” says Michael. “Because you’re going to have event planners and very discriminating clients who are very picky — whether it’s about the decor, floral arrangements, or food options — and they’re going to nitpick it all.”

Without research, it can be difficult to know exactly what elements are turning potential clients away, and that’s because, as Micheal says, “if they walk through and see something that’s not right for them, they’re not going to say anything to you. They’re just going to take you off their list and move on.”

To avoid this, you may want to have your architect or venue designer create a few different mockups and show them to your target audience members as well as local event planners to get their opinions and feedback.

#9 – Full kitchen or prep kitchen? Decide which is going to work best for your space, your audience and your bottom line

Most venues either opt for a full-service kitchen that they either staff themselves or reserve for their preferred caterer, or they go with the less expensive option of a prep kitchen that outside caterers can use to stage pre-cooked cuisine. Our experts have some slightly different preferences and insights on both of these options, both equally illuminating.

“In our venue, we currently have a prep kitchen,” said Michael “We’ve got the refrigerator, ice maker, two hot boxes, plenty of counter space, sink space, the whole nine yards. All a caterer has to do is come in, bring in a few specialty pieces that they need and they are set.”

“A full service kitchen ideally would be my preference because you get the freshest food,” Michael adds. “If you’re building a facility from scratch, I would recommend planning an actual full kitchen, but it takes a little more prep work in advance because you have to know what kind of grease hold you need to have, what kind and size of venting you need to have in place and things like that. But that sets you up so you can either offer the kitchen space to an outside vendor as a prep kitchen or to an in-house vendor as a full kitchen.”

Dianne counters, “If all you’re doing is banquets and you have a large banquet hall, invest in the full kitchen. But I’m not a fan of full kitchens unless you know you’re going to book out 300 catered events a year in your event center. Remember that kitchens are costly, and your gross margin on a kitchen and food is almost always going to be razor thin. Ask yourself ‘If you build it, do you have all the business to support it?’”

“For example, we closed our staffed commercial kitchen in 2019 because we had been losing money,” said Dianne. “It has now been turned into a prep kitchen. And honestly, unless you have a hotel or conference center with restaurants and room service and you can make money outside of the event space with those other options, a full kitchen requires lots of staffing and the food costs are only going up, which cuts your margins even more.”

Dianne also offers that there are many great caterers in practically every market that your clients can choose from, so if you take the prep kitchen route it can lower your costs on your kitchen build (one time) and staffing (ongoing) and also provides more flexibility for your clients and event planners.

“By having a prep kitchen that we let any client bring their caterer into, it opened up a whole new revenue stream for our private events [as opposed to requiring clients to use our food and beverage services],” added Dianne. “And anyways caterers are going to have better pricing than you, the venue, because it’s all they do and they usually have less overhead and lower staffing costs.”

#10 – You can still make money outsourcing to caterers, too. 

“Our relationship with our in-house caterer and our preferred beverage vendor is that they give us a specific percentage back on the back end of their food and beverage sales,” said Michael. “In exchange for that, they are our in-house provider.”

This partnership means that Michael consistently recommends and sells his catering partner to her clients, only relenting when clients are persistent on bringing in their own food vendors to fit their vision.

Micheal has also established a similar partnership with his beverage vendor, which he doesn’t budge on because this in-house vendor also carries the proper alcohol licensing that covers Michael and his facility from a liability and regulatory standpoint, giving him peace of mind. 

Dianne does have a different viewpoint and finds value in her choice to leave catering options completely open to her potential clients. 

“I’m not a big person for official suppliers, especially caterers,” said Dianne. “I kind of buck the trend on that one, because I want the client to come in and bring in who they trust and who they work with as opposed to me telling them that they have to work with an in-house caterer. You lose the bigger piece of the business – the space rental – over providing food, which is usually making little to no margin.”

Reviewing your target audience can help you decide whether partnerships will be right for your client base. If your ideal customer isn’t an expert at planning their own corporate or social events, they may appreciate the simplicity of choosing from a preferred vendor list. However, if you frequently cater to professional event planners and event production firms, it may be a smarter choice to allow your customers to bring in their own vendors.

#11 – Establish vendor relationships early on

If you’re building an in-house team of preferred vendors, then building relationships with quality vendors can be extremely helpful to a venue startup when launching a wedding venue or conference space. 

“Before you’re even in the facility, it’s all about your networking, starting with who your preferred vendors are and what kind of relationships are you going to set up with them,” said Michael. “Do you want to do a cross referral back and forth with commissions you send each other’s way? That’s not a bad thing at all, but you do need to establish good business boundaries and respect for each other. And you really need to have vendors who are going to go above and beyond for you whenever you need it.”

When searching for and selecting the vendors you want to work with, Michael suggests trying to find a vendor for each category that you don’t already serve in house (catering, beverage, floral, DJs, AV, etc.) then narrowing it down to who has the best reputation. Try to create and build on those relationships well before opening so you already have a team of vendors who understand your business and your facility, and who you can refer clients to.

Even if you decide not to have preferred or in-house vendors, simply compiling a list of reliable local vendors for your clients (so they can choose their own) is a great value-add … and it also helps ensure that the vendors coming through your doors are responsible and committed to delivering on behalf of your clients.

Making vendor connections can happen anywhere, but our experts recommend that venue owners start with attending local networking events for event planning professionals as well as asking around about vendors that stand out in your local hospitality industry.

“Visit the bridal shows, look for vendors who have the best setup and talk with event planners there because they’re going to give you the 411 about who you need to know vendor-wise,” said Michael. “Then, take them to lunch, take them to dinner, send them a gift, show them the progress on your space. They will love it because they’re excited about creating that relationship and that new potential business.”

#12 – Hire flexible, multi-skilled staff who can do everything

In addition to acquiring a list of quality vendors you can lean on, you should also build a team of multi-talented employees who can serve in multiple functions in your event business. 

“Our full time staff members don’t have job titles,” said Dianne. “Because today you may be doing marketing, tomorrow you’re creating an event, the next day you might be answering the phone, the day after that you’re working as a bartender … because all our staff are certified to serve alcohol.”

Dianne suggests that, instead of filling each slot with a specialized person, you should create a “lean-and-mean” team of generalists who are interested in learning the industry and enjoy the flexibility and freshness of an ever-evolving position.

“Even though my staff could probably go out and get any variety of jobs, they love working here because they’re not doing the same thing over and over again and we pay them good money,” said Dianne. “This way it keeps them learning and engaged and there’s always a challenge for them.”

She also warns against overextending yourself and your staff by trying to run full-time, night-and-day event operations with a part-time staff. Instead, try to build a solid crew of reliable full-time employees and supplement where needed. See where and how you can stretch your resources without creating staff burnout.

#13 – Start your marketing efforts long before opening your event space (at least six months out)

When you open the doors to your new event space, you already want to have your event and meeting rooms pre-booked with as many weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, conferences and festivals as possible. The way to do this is by marketing and building an audience before cutting the ribbon on opening day.

Michael says that venue owners who haven’t created a venue website and built a following online via social media platforms (especially Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest) prior to opening have a harder time filling their calendar and tend to have a slower start. 

“You’re going to be paying rent or a mortgage, all these utilities, employee expenses, and if you don’t have a following yet, you won’t be able to start covering all these expenses out of the gate,” said Michael.

“Six months out from opening day, you need to begin your social marketing,” added Michael. “You want to show your progress, announce new relationships with vendors and get them to reciprocate via social media.

“You will need a website built with search engine optimization and with pictures, and if you don’t have pictures yet you can at least have architect renderings and staff pictures.”

Of course, all of these tactics should line up with your overall marketing strategy outlined in your business plan.

#14 – Hire a sales manager six months prior to opening

When you launch your marketing campaigns, you’ll need to have a sales manager in place who can speak with potential clients as well as start an outbound sales effort.

“If you’re not planning six months in advance with hiring a sales manager, then expect your first 90 days in business to be really hard because you’re not going to have those immediate bookings that can begin to pay your bills after your opening,” said Michael.

Some venue owners may assume responsibility for generating sales themselves to stay lean, but Michael suggests that hiring someone to cover this task while you focus your energy on getting your startup venue in shape is a wise investment.

“Unless you can generate sales yourself while you oversee all the details of your construction and all of the other obstacles you will face … and there will be a many … your best bet is to hire a sales manager to focus on getting clients in the door when you open,” said Michael. 

Michael suggests leaning on existing networks and checking out local Facebook groups to find talented salespeople who aren’t already attached to a property and may be interested in your vision. Just don’t poach staff from other venues, which will create a bad first impression and negative word of mouth in the industry, something you don’t need before you launch.

FYI … Here’s a great resource with expert insights for growing event sales for venues .

#15 – Don’t skimp on venue management software and tools … and have them in place when you hire your sales manager

Once you have your marketing and sales team in place, ideally, you’ll start to receive bookings. This means that you should also have your software and systems in place. Trying to piece it together as you go can create a chaotic flow and disjointed processes for you, your staff and your clients and can cause some costly mistakes early on. 

Michael suggests getting a Planning Pod account set up as soon as possible so that you can begin to manage your bookings, business, sales and marketing efforts. Planning Pod also allows you to build reusable templates for contracts, proposals, invoices, BEOs and floor plans so that you can create these ahead of time before you launch.

Micheal also recommends setting up a voice-over-IP phone answering service so your personal cell phone doesn’t become the business phone … which you will regret as your business grows. He also stresses that you should get your important legal documents in order before you start booking events and have an attorney draft your contract so that it’s ironclad with regard to cancellation, refund and damages policies (a painful lesson learned by many special events venues during the coronavirus pandemic).

#16 – Don’t forget to institute safety measures and policies … and don’t try to save by not insuring yourself

“Safety is a huge priority when considering operations,” said Dianne. “Whether it’s food safety, setting up furniture or stages, guest safety, fire safety or capacity requirements. If you’re not an expert on facility safety, hire a consultant, because if you don’t get this right it will bite you in the bum faster than anything else.”

Dianne also mentioned that human resources and insurance policies should be things that you put in place very early on (general business, property and liability policies are a must).

#17 – Have all your furnishings, equipment and supplies on-hand and available three months before opening day

As part of your timeline for opening an event venue, you’ll need to determine when you should order all your supplies and furnishings so that it’s on premise in plenty of time for your opening.

“Three months before you open is when you want to make sure that you have all of your furnishings on hand and in the facility,” said Michael. “This includes all of your tables and chairs, tableware, plateware, silverware, chargers and linens.”

Some pieces can be outsourced, and Michael actually recommends looking into using a linen service at first, which can save you money as you start a venue business. However, he emphasizes that, “tables and chairs should be bought upfront because within just four to six months you will have paid in rental costs what it would have cost you to purchase initially. Just think of this as an investment of getting started.”

And if you aren’t sure which style chair to go with, Michael has an affinity for Chivari chairs, simply because they are very classic. He warns against wooden chairs, which typically need to be replaced in less than a year’s time due to wear-and-tear.

“You can opt for the resin-over-steel-frame version, but I would recommend the clear polycarbonate resin because they have a much longer life and they’re not going to change color,” said Michael. “It’s a much better investment long term. Also make sure the tables and chairs you buy can stand up to tough cleaning products, because you are going to be cleaning these quite often.”

If you plan on having a busy rental business side of your venue, you may also want to purchase items like dance floors, stages, podiums and decor, as you will end up saving money much like you would by purchasing chairs and tables upfront.

Whatever style you choose, just make sure to order them in time. Some items may take longer to fulfill than expected, and things can get backstocked, lost in transit or arrive damaged. When your items do come in, you should inspect each piece and log them into your inventory system, especially if you’re planning on leasing items.

#18 – Practice makes perfect and mock-ups can help sell new clients

Dianne believes that new and seasoned venue owners alike should take advantage of dry runs. Running through a dummy event can help you and your team iron out kinks in your processes and also makes clients feel more confident knowing that you have rehearsed things.

Setting up your room in various styles also helps potential clients visualize your space and gives them an idea of how flexible you can be in realizing their vision.

“I would go in and set up rooms and spaces with tables, chairs, decor and drapes, all in various styles – classrooms, banquets, whatever,” said Dianne. “Then, I’d create floor plans based on these setups and take pictures so you can show your customers and put them on your web site. That way, they can realistically see what things will look like.”

That last idea is a great tip, because these dry-runs and mock-ups give you photos and images that can be shared on your social media profiles and posted on your website until you have photos of actual events.

#19 – Make the most of your grand opening 

Your grand opening needs to be so much more than sending out some email invites and putting out a few appetizers and beverages for whoever stops by. It’s really about making valuable and necessary connections in your industry and community while showing off everything you have to offer. You are an event venue, after all, so your grand opening should be extremely well planned, immaculately executed and heavily attended.

“Always, always do an open house,” said Dianne. “Invite industry people in to snoop around, because they love it. If you’ve got food and beverage in house, this is when you’re highlighting the new menu and getting people to savor it.”

She also said to make sure to chat up all the local event planners, meeting planners and people who produce big events. She encourages venue owners and sales managers to join local associations way ahead of time, even if you have to sign up as a supplier (which is usually more expensive), just to get your name out there and to get these key contacts to attend your event.

“Long before your grand opening gala, you need to get involved with your local Chamber of Commerce, a local Rotary Club, local chapters of industry associations like ILEA [ International Live Events Association ], NACE [ National Association for Catering and Events ] and MPI [ Meeting Professionals International ] and local wedding association chapters like ABC [ Association of Bridal Consultants ],” agreed Michael. “And don’t just sign up, but be actively involved with them and make those relationships. That way, when it comes time to announce your open house, they are all on your invite list and eager to attend.”

Michael also recommends sending out a press release about 30 days prior to your grand opening gala, and he swears by using an experienced PR firm that will have the experience and media connections to help capture the attention of local reporters. 

Dianne’s insider secret is to “invite politicians, like your mayor or city council members to your grand opening, because they will let every media outlet in the area know that they will be attending. It’s a good news story for them, and you’d be amazed at how many other people will attend if they know a politician is showing up.”

#20 – Become a integral part of your community and it will pay huge dividends

“Your mindset prior to and long after your launch should be how you can serve and immerse yourself in your community,” said Dianne. “The more you put into the community, the more you will get back in goodwill, word of mouth and bookings.”

Dianne recommends building business by becoming a community staple, and to do that, you may want to consider offering some spiffs and freebies early on.

“Think about how you can participate in your community, in organizations and on boards, and how you can promote other businesses in your community, because they will reciprocate if you become their trusted partner and promoter,” said Dianne. “If you get involved in the community and be a good community member, I practically guarantee you’ll have success.”

Some tactics she has used before include using dark nights or unbooked days to let speakers host engagements for free or offering her facilities or meeting rooms as a monthly meeting space for local nonprofit groups.

“When you first start out, you simply want boots through the door to check out your new space and kick the tires,” said Dianne. “The more people see it, the more they get familiar with it.

Donating unused, un-rented space to help the pillars of your community doesn’t cost much and can lead to much bigger returns.

“These groups may only have 20 or so people at their meetings, but they all have social networks, and because you are doing them a favor, they will spread the word into the community about you. You’d be amazed how many community group organizations that we’ve helped out have promoted us on social media, and that became another big marketing channel in driving clients through our doors.”

Starting an event space? Don’t forget to talk to seasoned pros like Dianne and Michael

Launching any new business comes with its fair share of learning curves. However, relying on the advice and experience of industry experts can go a long way in helping you gain insights from their successes and prevent making the same mistakes that they did. Experts like Dianne and Michael come with decades of experience of hosting all types of events (and the hard-earned lessons that come with it).

At Planning Pod, as a venue management software solution used by hundreds of venues, we come across our fair share of experienced venue owners, from L.A. to New York and everywhere in between, who wish they knew what they know now before they opened an event space.

As such, we encourage you to reach out to other venue owners and pick their brains about what you should (and shouldn’t) be doing as you move forward with your event space startup. This might require you to join a professional organization like ILEA or MPI, to reach out to hospitality business owners outside of your area or to even hire a venue consultant to help you through the process.

In the end, all this preparation is worth it because it starts you down the right path to success. Having the right tools and processes in place is part of this preparation, and that’s where Planning Pod comes in. Our all-in-one venue management software provides everything you need to manage your bookings, sales, billings, communications and more. Sign up for a free trial.

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This is an excellent guide!

Very thorough and practical advice. One of the best resources I have come across so far – thank you!

This was amazing content. Easy to understand. I learned a lot of new things I never thought to consider. Thank you!

Excellent!!! A very easy guide – all things I feel are doable! Thank you!

Awesome step by step content! I loved the part where you mentioned to design your venue to impress your most difficult client! Very informational article – Thanks!

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Wow! Great. The content is very very informative. Thank you.

Very detailed explanation, I gained so much insight into this new project and I am really excited about it

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How to Start an Event Venue: 10 Tips to Follow

Whether you want to open a convention center with 200,000 square feet of meeting space, a boutique wedding venue with a capacity of 25 people, or anything in between, there's a lot you need to know to learn how to start an event venue. The good news? You're starting in the right place.

Although running an event venue is a rewarding experience, it doesn't come without challenges. Whether you’ve been in the events industry for a long time or are just dipping your toes in now, make sure you check out these high-level tips, tricks, and tools to help put your best foot forward.

Explore how to start an event venue with these 10 tips

1. weigh the pros and cons of starting an event venue..

When learning how to start an event venue, it’s important to have a realistic understanding of the various obstacles that come with running a business. These vary from person to person and business to business, which is why we recommend starting with a pros and cons list that is unique to your life, goals, and situation.

The first category you need to assess is money. Can you afford the financial risk of running a business that requires expensive costs such as event venue insurance and event staff? Will the profits you make from the realistic amount of bookings you can expect over time lead to a profit?

In addition to the financial cost, there's also the cost of time. For example, if you plan to keep a full-time job as you start up your event venue, you have to keep in mind that your nights and weekends will probably be taken up. That may seem easy enough; however, once the venue is up and running, you're only getting started. Preparing the space for the event, marketing the venue, and dealing with customer service tasks may also need to take place in what little free time you have left.

On the other hand, you may be the kind of person who feels happiest and most fulfilled when you’re working non-stop. If that’s the case, this may fall under your pros column.

Even if there are some considerable cons on your personal list, make sure you research potential solutions before throwing in the towel. For example, hiring a business partner to help you run the venue may get you some money and time back, especially if they are more experienced in the events industry.

Making a pros and cons list is essential for you to have a realistic understanding of the various obstacles and rewards that will come with starting — and running — an event venue. If you’re still excited about the idea of starting an event venue after carefully weighing both sides, then you're probably ready to get started.

2. Conduct extensive market research.

Whether you have industry experience or not, you can't learn how to start an event venue without taking a deep dive into your market. The list of items to consider is a lengthy one, but here are a few questions to get started: 

• Who will your main competitors be?
• Where are they located?
• What does their branding look like?
• What is their unique selling proposition?
• How do they structure their services?
• What is their pricing model and how much do they charge?
• What does their marketing look like?
• What are some strategies they’re using to improve their marketing and sales?
• What are planners, attendees, guests, and all other clients and customers saying about the venue online? 

3. Write an event venue business plan.

If you’re planning on learning how to start an event venue, large or small, you need to create a comprehensive business plan. A business plan will help you and your team develop a strategy and manage the various aspects of the business.

The good news is that there are tons of resources available to help you with the steps needed to start an event venue. While organizations such as the Small Business Administration offers guides to writing a business plan , we recommend following an example that is specific to owning an event venue business .

4. Do the paperwork.

This should go without saying, but you need to make sure that you have the proper licenses and permits for your venue well before you host your first event. In most cases, your local municipality has the necessary information to help you navigate through the various requirements of your venue.

Pay special attention to zoning laws that pertain to your specific venue structure. For example, a barn-based event venue may have special requirements since some zones only allow barns to be used for farming and agriculture.

You’ll also want to work with a CPA or professional advisor on which tax structure makes the most sense for your event venue business. And don’t forget to look into event insurance quotes!

Explore now: Resources to help you start your event venue

5. Choose a name for your venue.

Your event venue name should be something meaningful that people can remember forever and associate with your brand. But it should also have minimal competition in Google search results. When coming up with a name for your new business, it’s important that you take into account the style of events that you want to attract. 

As  Ivan Dimitrijevic , Director of Demand Generation at Funky Marketing says, “Even though there are many successful businesses with a vague name that doesn’t refer to their specific niches, it’s always advisable that this part of your brand resonates with the audience as much as possible, particularly if your business is still in its startup phase.” 

6. Start preparing your space.

This tip will vary depending on the type of venue and if you're starting from the literal ground up or are taking over a space that's already built. Regardless, a few things to keep in mind when it comes to getting your venue ready:

• Hire contractors and inspectors to ensure that your space meets all necessary safety requirements.
• Clean up neglected areas in and around the venue.
• Consider refreshing the landscaping, paint, and so on. 
• Take inventory of furniture options and decide whether you’ll provide your own or partner with a third party.

7. Get your venue's digital marketing in order.

Your brand new venue doesn't mean much if people don't know about it. Here are a few key marketing factors to implement:

• A website designed to provide a comprehensive overview of your business, including a description of your niche and the type of facility that you provide.
• Social media accounts including, but not limited, to Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest.
• High-quality photos and videos of the venue and its spaces.
• A 3D diagram of the venue and its layout options, which you can create using Cvent Event Diagramming .
• Business profiles on Google, Yelp, and other major and niche review sites. Once added, be sure to keep up with and respond to reviews .
• List your venue on sourcing platforms such as the Cvent Supplier Network and Wedding Spot . Add details about your venue's standout features as well as location, guest capacity, and amenities, and watch the leads flow through. 

8. Hire great staff.

A venue is only as good as the people running it. Here are some essential event venue roles you should consider hiring:

• A venue coordinator. The venue coordinator is the person who helps the event planners and the vendors plan the event.
• Kitchen staff. If you plan to offer catering services, you may want to hire a head chef plus their preferred team of line chefs, cooks, food-preparers, servers, and assistants.
• Set-up and clean-up crew. These individuals will help with tables, chairs, and decor.
• Event staff. You’ll want extra hands on deck as errand runners, coat checkers, valets, and assistants for anything that comes up during your events.

Depending on the type of work that you're doing, these individuals may or may not be employed by your company. If you plan on using temporary workers, make sure that you hire event staffing companies that have a great reputation in your area.

Cvent spoke to Refvik & Light Productions Owner Kristin Light about her experience running two event venues in Toronto. In her email, Light emphasized, “HIRE GOOD PEOPLE. You absolutely cannot do this alone. Nor should you. It'll be a wonderful, enjoyable experience as long as you can maintain work-life balance!”

Light also said that once you find a vendor you really like, you should enter into a dedicated contract with them. As this event venue owner says, there is a “huge, massive, life-saving benefit to establishing preferred vendor relationships ''. That includes caterers, staffing, and rentals.

9. Hire backup.

Being an event venue owner is a lot of responsibility. If someone doesn’t show up for work, it will immediately become your duty to complete the task if you don’t have backup available. As Light shared with us, “if your cleaner/manager/etc. calls in sick and you have no short-notice replacement, congratulations; it's you now. Grab a bucket, don an apron, whatever's needed. It's your job now.”

You may think to yourself that this is great for some rare emergencies, but Light would disagree. “Always expect this to happen. Event nights off are the exception, not the rule.”

10. Prepare yourself and your team.

Light also shared some tried and true tips on what to do to physically prepare for your events:

• Buy great shoes. “Spend the money on good footwear,” says Light. “Something simple that you can last 10-12 hours in, climb ladders in, and handle meetings in. Foot care is no joke.” We also recommend no-slip bottoms and the addition of cushioned floor mats for your kitchen staff.
• Tape (multiple types)
• Safety pins
• Phone chargers that guests can use, plus dongles for every tech connection
• Batteries of all types (rechargeables and one-time use)
• Shims/ wedges for leveling tables. “You will need a LOT of these,” writes Light.
• Clif Bars or another shelf-stable meal replacement. “There will be many a day you can neither get away, nor get fed by catering. Be prepared,” Light advises.
• Hold pre-event meetings. Even a quick huddle will go a long way towards making sure your event venue employees are all on the same page the day of.

You're on your way to learning how to start an event venue!

There are of course hundreds of other factors to consider when starting a venue, but as long as you keep these tips in mind and explore our extensive resources and blog , you'll be on the right path.

Up next: Learn about event venue trends to get some ideas for your own business.

Let us help you start — and grow — your event venue

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Cvent is a market-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider with more than 4,000 employees, ~21,000 customers, and 200,000 users worldwide.

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Event Venue Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

Event Venue Business Plan

If you want to start a successful event venue business or expand your existing business, you need a business plan.

The following event venue business plan template gives you the key elements to include in a winning an event space business plan.

You can download our Event Venue Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Below are links to each of the key sections of a sample event space business plan.

• Executive Summary – One of the most important sections, the Executive Summary should provide a high-level overview of the event venue business. If you are seeking funding such as a business loan, this section will also include a brief description of the financial status of your business and any use of funds.
• Company Overview – The Company Overview will provide more details about the mission, vision, physical location, and overall legal structure of your event venue business. This section should include your company’s history, ownership structure, and key personnel.
• Industry Analysis – In this section, you will provide an overview of the event industry and how your business fits into the local market. This includes a review of the event venues you consider competitors, their pricing strategies, and customer demographics.
• Customer Analysis – In this section, you will analyze your current and prospective customer base. You’ll also include a description of the type of events that you host at your venue such as corporate events, birthday parties, wedding receptions, etc.
• Competitive Analysis – The Competitive Analysis will identify your competitors and discuss how you plan to position your event venue business within the marketplace. You’ll also analyze your competitor’s strengths and weaknesses to identify your competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – In your marketing plan, you will outline your marketing strategies and initiatives. This includes how you plan to promote your event venue business (print advertising, social media, etc.), target customers, attend networking events, and build relationships with prospective clients.
• Operations Plan – The Operations Plan will provide a detailed overview of the day-to-day operations of your event venue business. This includes staffing, scheduling, event planning, and managing local vendors.
• Management Team – In this section, you will discuss the background and qualifications of your management team. This includes an overview of each member’s relevant experience as it relates to managing event spaces.
• Financial Plan – Finally, the Financial Plan will provide a review of the key reports, operating expenses, and financial projections for your venue business. This includes a profit and loss statement, a cash flow analysis, and a balance sheet.

Click below to see each section of our free event venue business plan template. You can also click here to get our sample event venue business plan pdf .

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Event Venue Business Plan Home I. Executive Summary II. Company Overview III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan

Event Venue Business Plan Template

Whether you are a seasoned event planner or just starting out, having a comprehensive business plan is essential to your success. Our free event venue business plan template is designed to guide you through the process of creating a detailed and effective plan for your event venue business. It includes all the necessary sections such as executive summary, market analysis, marketing strategy, financial projections, and more. With our free template, you will have a solid foundation to build your business on and increase your chances of success.

Get the free business plan template here!

Are you thinking about starting an event venue business? One of the most crucial steps to success is creating a comprehensive business plan. A well-written business plan not only helps you to stay focused on your goals but also attracts potential investors and partners.

Our free event venue business plan template that provides a detailed and structured approach to creating your business plan. Our template is designed to help you create a plan that is tailored to your business, outlining everything from market analysis and marketing strategy to financial projections.

With our free event venue business plan template, you will have a solid foundation to build your business on. Our template covers all the essential sections that are necessary for a successful business plan, including:

Event Venue Business Plan Executive Summary:

The executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan that provides a snapshot of your event venue business. This section should highlight the key points of your business plan, including your business objectives, target market, and financial projections.

Market Analysis: The market analysis section provides an overview of the event venue industry, including the trends, competition, and potential customers. You should identify your target market, analyze your competition, and explain how your business will differentiate itself from others.

Marketing Strategy: In the marketing strategy section, you should describe how you plan to promote your event venue business to potential customers. This section should also include a budget for marketing expenses and a timeline for implementing your marketing plan.

Operations Plan: The operations plan provides an overview of how your event venue business will function on a day-to-day basis. This section should include information about the location, facilities, equipment, and staffing required for your business to operate.

Financial Projections: The financial projections section provides an overview of your business's expected financial performance. You should include your projected revenue and expenses, as well as your expected profits and cash flow.

By using our free event venue business plan template, you will have a clear and structured approach to creating your business plan. Our template is designed to help you develop a plan that is tailored to your specific business needs, allowing you to make informed decisions and stay focused on your goals.

Don't wait any longer, download our free event venue business plan template today and take the first step towards building a successful event venue business!

Event Venue Business Plan Frequently Asked Questions

Why do i need a business plan for my event venue business.

A business plan is essential for any business, including an event venue. It provides a roadmap for your business and helps you stay focused on your goals. It also serves as a tool to attract potential investors and partners.

What should I include in my event venue business plan?

Your event venue business plan should include an executive summary, market analysis, marketing strategy, operations plan, and financial projections. These sections provide a comprehensive overview of your business, including your target market, competition, marketing strategy, operations, and expected financial performance.

How do I determine my target market?

To determine your target market, you should conduct market research to identify your potential customers. Consider factors such as age, income, location, and interests. You should also analyze your competition and identify any gaps in the market that your business can fill.

How do I create a marketing strategy for my event venue business?

To create a marketing strategy for your event venue business, you should identify your target market and develop a plan to reach them. This may include advertising, social media, and networking events. You should also set a budget for marketing expenses and create a timeline for implementing your marketing plan.

How do I create financial projections for my event venue business plan?

To create financial projections for your event venue business plan, you should research your market and competition to determine your expected revenue and expenses. You should also consider factors such as location, staffing, and equipment costs. Your financial projections should include projected revenue, expenses, profits, and cash flow for at least the first three years of your business. You can use a financial projection template to make the process easy!

We Know a Good Business Plan When we See One

Collectively, our team has reviewed thousands of business plans and has nearly 20 years of experience making SBA loans. We've also helped more than 50,000 businesses create financial projections across many industries and geographies.

Adam served as Executive Director for a SBA microlender in Indiana for over 10 years helping businesses and reviewing thousands of business plans.

Grace has built hundreds of custom financial models for businesses as well as our projection templates which are used by thousands of businesses every year.

Kyle served as an SBA loan officer for 7 years working directly with startups and business owners to review their business plans, projections, and prepare their loan package.

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How to Start an Event Venue Business

Starting a event venue business can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn how to open an event space successfully.

Importantly, a critical step in starting an event venue is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Event Venue Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Event Venue Business Plan Template here

15 Steps To Start an Event Venue Business

• Choose the Name for Your Event Venue Business
• Develop Your Event Venue Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Event Venue Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Event Venue Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Event Venue Business With the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Event Venue Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Event Venue Business Equipment
• Develop Your Event Venue Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Event Venue Business
• Hire a Team
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Event Venue Business

The first step to starting a event venue business is to choose your business’ name.

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your event space business:

• Make sure the name is available. Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple. The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing. Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your event space.

2. Develop Your Event Venue Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting an event venue business is to develop your event venue business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

To enhance your planning process, incorporating insights from a  sample event venue business plan  can be beneficial. This can provide you with a clearer perspective on industry standards and effective strategies, helping to solidify your own business approach.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your event venue business.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your event venue business and what type of event venue business you operate. For example, are you exclusively a wedding venue or do you host all sorts of private events? Is your space a large banquet hall or another type of event space?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the event venue industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, are they in a particular income bracket? Where do they live? What do they look for in an event venue?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your event venue business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing. You might also attend networking events to promote your business.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your business operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your event venue business make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

3. Choose the Legal Structure for Your Event Venue Business

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your event venue business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the owner of the event venue business and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small businesses. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a event venue business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business.

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for an event venue business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a event venue business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your event venue business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Event Venue Business (If Needed)

In developing your event venue business plan, you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business.

If so, the main sources of funding for an event venue business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in an event venue business that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

A major step to starting your event venue business is to find and secure a location. Many event venues rely on beauty, historical significance, or unique features to bring in customers, which can all be challenging characteristics to find or create on a budget. Just remember that even a simple space can be made into something elegant and photo-worthy with a bit of work.

You’ll also need to find a space that is large enough to accommodate your guests and has all the necessary amenities, such as restrooms, a catering kitchen, and parking. If you’re on a tight budget, you may need to get creative with your space. For example, you could rent a large warehouse and turn it into an event venue with the help of some DIY decor.

Once you’ve found the perfect location for your business, be sure to sign a lease or purchase agreement. This will protect you from any legal issues that could arise down the road.

To find the right space, consider:

• Driving around to find the right areas while looking for “for lease” signs
• Contacting a commercial real estate agent
• Doing commercial real estate searches online
• Telling others about your needs and seeing if someone in your network has a connection that can help you find the right space

6. Register Your Event Venue Business With the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

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7. open a business bank account.

It is important to establish a bank account in your event venue business’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your event venue business to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

Every state, county and city has different business license and permit requirements.

Nearly all states, counties and/or cities have license requirements including:

• General Business License – You will need to apply for a general business license in the city or county where your event venue will be located. Business license applications are usually very simple, but fees vary by location.
• Occupancy Permit – An occupancy permit is also required in order to operate an event venue. This permit is issued by the local fire department and ensures that your venue meets all the fire safety guidelines.
• Beer or Liquor License – If you plan to serve alcohol at your events, you will need to apply for a liquor or beer license. The application process and fees vary by state, so you’ll need to check with your local government office to find out what’s required.

Depending on your location and the type of event venue you launch, you will have to obtain the necessary state, county and/or city licenses.

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Event Venue Business

Business insurance policies that you should consider for your event venue business include:

• General Liability Insurance – General liability insurance will protect your event venue from any third-party bodily injury or property damage claims that might arise.
• Property Insurance – This will protect your event venue from any physical damage or theft.
• Workers’ Compensation Insurance – If you have employees, you will need this insurance to protect them in case they are injured while working at your event venue.
• Business Interruption Insurance – This insurance will protect your venue from lost income if your business is forced to close due to a covered event, like a fire or severe weather.
• Liquor Liability Insurance – If you serve or sell alcohol at your event venue, you will need this insurance to protect yourself from any liability claims that might arise from someone becoming intoxicated and injuring themselves or others.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs.  

How to Finish Your Ultimate Event Venue Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your event venue business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Event Venue Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

11. Buy or Lease the Right Event Venue Business Equipment

To get your event venue business off on the right foot, you’ll need to invest in some essential equipment. This includes items like chairs, tables, linens, dishware, decorative items, and audio-visual equipment.

You may be able to find some of these items used, but it’s important to also have some replacement items on hand in case of breakage or damage. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of renting items like tents, stages, and dance floors if you don’t plan on purchasing them outright. Some events may also require specialty items that you can consider leasing.

From the business side, you will need a phone, computer, printer, reliable internet connection, and basic office supplies. You might also consider looking into security systems.

12. Develop Your Event Venue Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your event venue business.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo – Spend some time developing a good logo for your event venue business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website – Likewise, a professional event venue business website provides potential customers with information about the products and/or services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts – Establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media networks will help customers and others find and interact with your new event venue business. Events like weddings get lots of local social media attention and can help generate new customers for an event space.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Event Venue Business

There are a few different types of software that can make running an event venue business easier.

A good booking system can help you keep track of reservations and ensure that your events are properly staffed. Some popular booking systems for event venues are HoneyBook, Tripleseat, and iVvy Venue Management.

If your booking software does not include a way to accept payments, you should also look into a point of sale (POS) system like Square, or something to help you manage all your finances like Quickbooks.

Finally, a good customer relationship management (CRM) tool such as ActiveCampaign can help you stay in touch with your existing mailing list and generate new bookings. Some booking systems may also include CRM tools, so make sure to explore all their features before buying new software.

Research the software that best suits your needs, purchase it, and set it up.

14. Hire a Team

You might find yourself filling many roles as you launch a small event venue, but will likely need to build a team of event professionals to be successful in the long term. Your employees might include an event planner, catering manager, and marketing specialist. Together, these individuals will be able to help you create a successful event venue business.

When hiring employees for an event venue business, it is important to find individuals who have the necessary skills and experience. One way to do this is to post job openings online and review resumes. It is also important to interview potential employees and ask them questions about their experience and what they can bring to the business.

15. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your new event venue business. Start promoting your venue in as many places as you can and reaching out to potential clients to make bookings. You might also host a grand opening event to let prospective clients check out the new event space.

If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business and you will know everything you need about how to start a venue business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

How to Start an Event Venue Infographic

How To Start an Event Space Business FAQs

Is it hard to start an event venue.

It is not easy to start an event venue, but it is definitely doable with the right planning and execution. Starting an event venue requires a lot of coordination, from finding the perfect location to getting all the necessary permits and licenses. However, with careful planning and execution, opening an event venue can be a very rewarding experience. Following the steps outlined above will help you get started.

How Can I Start an Event Venue Business With No Experience?

You can absolutely start an event venue business with no experience. In fact, many event venue businesses are started by first-time entrepreneurs. The key is to have a clear vision for your business and to be willing to put in the hard work to make it a reality. The most important thing you can do to get started is research the industry and your local market. You might also consider looking into online courses or training events for event venue managers.

How Much Does It Cost To Start an Event Venue Business?

Event venues and related businesses, such as catering and photography, require a significant investment.

The average startup costs for an event space range from $200,000 to $500,000.

Here are a few key costs that are associated with launching a venue:

Rent/Mortgage

This is the number one cost associated with launching a venue business.

Depending on where you get your real estate, your rent will vary quite a bit. Depending on how large of a space you need to buy or build and its location, this cost could be thousands upon thousands of dollars.

Luckily, there are many different types of commercial loans and other ways to finance this expense so it’s not impossible to get started without all the cash upfront.

Operating Expenses

These expenses are ongoing throughout the life of your business, so you need to make sure you plan accordingly to not go broke over time. You’ll have things like insurance, equipment replacement or rental (if you choose), employee wages/benefits, taxes, etc.

All these ongoing expenses add up very quickly if you’re not managing them well.

Employee Costs

You need to have the right staff members on your team to be successful. You can pick and choose who you hire for each position, but don’t forget that there’s a cost associated with every employee on your team.

Build-Out/Renovations

You’ll probably need to renovate or build out your facility to turn it into the type of space you want it to be. This is an ongoing expense, but you’ll see a large spike here during the initial buildout of the business.

Can You Start Your Own Venue Business On A Budget?

Like with most businesses, if you are investing in starting a venue business on a shoestring, it may be difficult to get things off the ground. It's not impossible if you're creative (a garage sale can be used to help raise funds), but the risk is that you won't have enough money to cover monthly expenses throughout the first year of operation.

There are several ways to obtain the funding you need to start a successful venue business. You can apply for a loan, utilize your local SBA office for guidance on writing a business plan and obtaining funding from the government.

In this tough economic climate, it's important to be creative if you want to launch a new idea or venture with very little money involved. If you have a great concept paired with a well-written business plan, your chances of obtaining a loan to help you get started are greatly increased.

How Does an Event Venue Make Money?

Venue operations vary greatly depending on the size of the event facility and its target audience.

For example, some event venues may charge a flat fee for hosting an event which allows them to focus on catering to individuals or companies that host events regularly (such as universities). Other venues may choose to work with outside caterers and allow them to take care of the day-to-day operations.

There's no foolproof way to ensure that you'll earn a profit as a venue, but it's important that you understand the needs and wants of your target market so that your business can be profitable.

Is Owning an Event Venue Profitable?

Businesses in this space can be highly profitable, but profits vary depending on several factors. Location, size of the venue, and type of events hosted are just a few of the many things that influence how much revenue the owner will bring in.

What Type of Event Venue Business Is Most Profitable?

There are many different types of event venues, and each has its own unique set of profitability factors. To maximize profits, it is important to choose a venue type that is well suited to the target market and location. Wedding venues are usually profitable when managed correctly, but the type of venue that will bring in the most profit really depends on demand in your area.

What Are the Ongoing Expenses for an Event Venue Business?

There are some costs that you will need to pay on a regular basis in order to keep your business up and running. Some of the most common ongoing expenses for an event venue business include rent, utilities, insurance, wages, and marketing.

Rent is likely going to be your biggest expense, as you will need to find a suitable location for your venue. The amount of rent you pay will depend on the size and location of your venue.

Utilities, such as electricity and water, will also need to be paid on a regular basis. The amount you pay will again depend on the size of your venue and the number of events you host.

Insurance is another important expense, as it will protect your business in case of any accidents or damages that occur on your property. You will need to get both general liability insurance and property insurance.

Paying your employees is also an ongoing expense. If you have any staff working for you, you will need to pay them a salary or hourly wage.

Finally, you will need to spend money on marketing in order to attract clients to your venue. There are many different marketing strategies you can use, such as print ads, online advertising, and word-of-mouth marketing.

How Much Do Event Venue Owners Make?

It is hard to estimate how much venue owners make because the amount of money that a venue owner can make varies depending on a few different factors.

One of the biggest factors that affect how much a venue owner can make is their location. Venues located in larger metropolitan areas will typically bring in more revenue than those located in smaller towns.

Size of Venue

The size or square footage of the venue is also a major factor. Venues that can accommodate a lot of people will generally bring in more revenue than those that are on the smaller side.

Type of Events

The type of events that a venue hosts also has a big impact on how much money the owner can make. Venues that host a wide variety of events will typically have higher revenue than those that specialize in hosting one type.

Generally, owners of professional, full-service banquet halls and meeting facilities can expect to make $45,000 to $100,000. Those that do not have banquet facilities can expect to make significantly less revenue.

What Are Some Important Questions To Ask Yourself When Starting an Event Venue Business?

Where will the venue be located.

The location of your venue is the most important factor when it comes to determining if you will make any money or not.

You can choose to open in a high-traffic, well-known area along with the great potential for growth in your local market. The other option is to find an underused space that may not have much foot traffic but offers great rates on rent might just be right for you.

The downside to this strategy is that you will need to put together marketing campaigns and advertising methods to reel people in which always costs more than renting low and selling high.

Your rent will also determine how much profit you take home so be sure to do your research before signing anything.

What Types of Events Will You Host?

Depending on the type of events you host will determine how many employees you need, what equipment is needed, and how much money you will make.

For example, if you are hosting concerts at your venue then you will want to hire security for the safety of the attendees. If it is a smaller event with fewer guests expected, then maybe just one or two security guards should be good enough.

The amount of money you will make also depends on the cost of hosting the event. If it is a business meeting, you might not charge as much in fees as if it was hosted at your venue.

How Big is Your Venue?

The size of your venue will affect your bottom line in more ways than one when it comes to hosting events.

For example, if your venue is too small you will not be able to fit many guests so, therefore, charge less for the space and attendance fees. If it is too big, then you will need more staff to accommodate every guest promptly.

How Will You Be Different?

Before opening, you need to know the things that make you different from other venues.

This can be anything from competitive pricing, customer service, or the location itself. Think about how you will attract potential clients and what happens once they walk through the front door.

Will you have a restaurant with great food? Will you have an outdoor area for patrons to mingle and enjoy themselves? Many questions need to be asked before opening your doors.

The more, the better since it will set you apart from other venues which can only help your business succeed.

What Is The Price for Your Services?

When it comes to the price you charge for your services, this all depends on what type of venue you are running.

For example, if you are hosting a wedding at your place, make sure to check out different venues in your area that will host that specific event since their prices might be better than yours.

Start by looking at different venues in your area that offer similar services. Once you have a list of potential competitors, study their pricing model and come up with something comparable.

What Is Your Budget?

The budget you have set aside is the fourth factor for opening your business.

This includes everything from advertising costs, equipment and staff salaries to rent and taxes. Without a proper budget in place, you will not succeed.

To calculate how much money you need to get started, add up all of your expenses then subtract that number from your income. This will help you fine-tune your venue and make it more profitable for the success of your business.

Before starting a venue, you need to know what type of events you want to host, how big your place is, the different types of people who will be attending your events, and so on and so forth. Knowing all the information before you even start thinking about your business is important to its success.

When it comes to figuring out what types of events, just make a list of all the possible things that can be done at your venue and narrow down the type of clients you want attending each event. Your budget also plays a huge role in starting a venue, so make sure to get the right number of customers.

Overall, just be marketable and study your competitors to find out their prices and what is successful for them to get your business

How Can I Make an Event Venue Business Successful?

There are a few keys to making a new event venue business successful.

This is a big one and takes time. You need to have some sort of business plan as far as how long things will take for each step of your own business. You need to know how much things will cost you in terms of rent, utilities, equipment, insurance – everything that your operation will require.

You also have to think about what you’re going to do differently from everyone else in this space so figure out where your target audience is and how you can fit into it with a great product or service offering. Be sure to make comparisons based on similar businesses in different markets when doing this market research.

There’s a lot of competition out there, but if you do something better than the others, people will come to your venue. Have a great idea for a venue that is different from what is currently available in the market. This can be something like a unique theme, location, or type of event that you plan to host.

You don’t necessarily need to invest a huge amount upfront. Think about how much revenue you can bring in and then think about whether that justifies the investment down the road. Be open to this growth and start small, but to grow and scale your business over time (and hire help as needed).

Determine Your Marget Market

You can create marketing materials that cater to different types of customers (like brides, corporations, festivals) but it’s not enough just to know your target audience – you need to understand their wants and needs so you can communicate these effectively in everything from sales calls to venue website copy. Find out what’s most persuasive when marketing to customers with this type of business.

How Can Venue Owners Stay Ahead Of Their Key Competitors?

One way that venue owners can maintain a competitive edge is by offering discounts for customers who are willing to book events well in advance of the date they want the event held. This idea might help venue managers compete with hotels, convention centers, and exhibition halls that offer business travelers rooms at discounted rates if they book well in advance.

Using social media accounts, such as Facebook and Twitter, also helps customers find out about upcoming bookings. Keeping customers informed is good customer service, but it also builds loyalty for those customers who have never used a venue before. Reach out to satisfied clients to obtain positive reviews for your website and social media profiles.

How Do I Advertise My Venue?

Many businesses making the transition to hosting their events don't advertise because they are unsure of the best way to go about it. There are many different options available when advertising, so use your creativity and brainstorming abilities to figure out which ones will work for you.

A few options that can be considered to find customers are hosting open houses, sending out flyers to local businesses, listing your event space on business directories and social media websites, and visiting popular spots in your area to leave fliers.

How Big Is the Event Industry?

The event industry is a massive market that does not stop growing. The market is currently about $3 billion with continued growth each year. This number includes all aspects of party and event planning including event venues, arenas, amphitheaters, clubs, bars/pubs/restaurants, etc.

What Are the Key Segments of the Event Venue Industry?

The events industry can be segmented into these categories: music concerts, festivals, sports, exhibitions & conferences, corporate events & seminars, and others.

Music Concerts

Music concert venues are the biggest segment in the industry due to their massive popularity throughout the world, especially in live music venues.

Music festivals are where people go to see a variety of different genres all at once and then party hard with other people who enjoy similar musical tastes.

Sport Venues

These events allow people to see their favorite players and teams compete against each other in a stadium or arena.

Exhibitions & Conferences

They provide a chance for companies to showcase their products and services to potential clients and customers.

Corporate Events & Seminars

These events allow companies to hold large meetings or conferences in an attempt to spread the word about their brand, products, and services.

Other Venues

Other venues include everything from restaurants and bars to nightclubs and hotels. These types of venues can be found in any major city and allow customers to do a variety of different things such as view sports games, listen to live music, or dance the night away with friends.

What External Factors Affect the Event Venue Industry?

As new event venues are created, there are new external factors that affect the industry. Taking a closer look at the external factors allows for accurate data from the industry to be produced. External factors include the following:

As with all industries, economic factors heavily affect event venues. The success or failure of an industry depends upon the state of the economy. If the economy is in a recession, then businesses are less likely to spend money on extravagant events, which means there will probably be fewer events at venues.

The population of a certain area also affects the industry. If there are very few people in a certain area, then that can limit the number of events held at a venue.

Another external factor is the number of competitors within a specific area. This directly affects prices and what kind of special events will be hosted as well as how often they are hosted. If there are fewer competitors, then this means higher demand and prices for customers.

Social media is another external factor that affects the industry. Event venues need to be aware of what their clients are saying about them on social media. There should not be any negative comments because it could cause potential customers to think negatively about the venue as well.

The last of the major external factors is the weather. Bad weather can cause people to have less of an urge to attend events at outdoor venues, which means there will probably be fewer people attending these types of events during unfavorable conditions.

Who Are the Key Competitors in the Event Venue Industry?

The key competitors in the event industry are primarily hotels, convention centers, and exhibition halls.

In the event industry, hotels serve as a primary competitor for event venues. Hotels typically offer similar services to that of an event space, such as catering and transportation.

In addition, convention centers work closely with hotels in promoting their facility through advertising and marketing opportunities. The hotel-convention center industry is a close-knit one, with many large hotel corporations also owning a convention center.

However, when it comes to developing relationships with potential clients, it is important to note that clients perceive hotels and exhibition halls to be more convenient than convention centers when planning meetings.

Convention Centers

The main competitor in this space is convention centers, which are generally larger venues that have more capacity for hosting gatherings. Convention centers are seen as a valuable marketing tool by many businesses for holding trade shows and attracting new customers.

However, there is often little incentive to hold smaller-scale events at convention centers due to their relatively high cost. Most convention centers are tied to cities or states that help pay for their upkeep. They are used not only by exhibitors but also by individuals looking for venues for wedding receptions, parties, family gatherings, etc. Convention centers also can host concerts and provide audio-visual equipment.

Exhibition Halls & Event Centers

Most of these large halls are considered “public assembly facilities” where people can gather together to listen to political or commercial speakers or watch performances. The type of event held depends on the size of the hall and its amenities. The more amenities provided in connection with an exhibition hall, the more expensive it will be to hold an event there.

What Are the Key Customer Segments in the Event Venue Market?

The key customer segments in the venue market are businesses and individual consumers.

Businesses use event venues for a variety of purposes, including meetings, conferences, trade shows, and product launches. Businesses account for the majority of event venues’ revenues. Many corporations, especially larger ones, have a dedicated meeting department that typically oversees their needs in this area.

Individuals

Individual consumers also rely on event venues. They use venues to host weddings, engagements, birthday parties, fundraisers, showers, and family events such as reunions or holiday gatherings. Individual consumers account for the second-largest source of revenue for event venues. In recent years, there has been an emphasis on attracting individual potential clients because they spend more money than businesses do per event.

Where Can I Download a Event Venue Business Plan PDF?

You can download our event venue business plan PDF template here. This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

Additional Resources in the Event Venue Industry

• Event Manager Blog: meetings.skift.com
• Professional Assoications for Event Venue Owners: www.corporateeventnew.com/top-22-professional-associations-event-planners

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.

Click here to see how Growthink’s business plan writing services can create your business plan for you.

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How to Write an Event Center Business Plan [Sample Template]

Do you want to start an event center and need to write a plan? If YES, here is a sample event center business plan template & FREE feasibility report. Event centers are in existence and thriving due to the fact that there are always various events for people – individual and businesses – to throw, from weddings, graduation parties, reunions, anniversaries, business meetings, fundraisers, dinner party and so on.

These events are usually conducted in halls that provide convenient facilities for guests than would have been achieved in a home or office. These days there are more events being thrown, which requires the use of event centers, this is why this is the best business to start for any entrepreneur. Below is one of such, a sample event center business plan;

A Sample Event Center Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The event center business is becoming a popular one as new event centers are opened everyday somewhere in the world. Most businesses in the hospitality industry are also leaning towards this trend by constructing multi-purpose halls or renovating existing facilities so as to be able to tap into the trend of hosting parties and conferences.

Globally according to reports, the hotel industry has also recognized the importance of having centers to host and service meetings to its revenue base and has started expanding its offer to cover these areas. This has helped to boost the bottom line for most of these hotels.

Asides hotels, educational institutions such as colleges and Universities have started focusing on increasing the number of conferences centers available to clients. Other unusual institutions such as museums, theatres, cinemas, zoos, castles, theme parks, aquaria, football stadia and racecourses, have also started making centers available to host meetings and other events.

There are new categories of venues that are now being added which create diversity to the other services in the market. These venues are unusual and are also growing in popularity as they are regarded as funky and edgy and are preferred by the younger generation, especially as they do not require overnight accommodation.

Companies are now picking brands that identify with their corporate values and brands, as this is seen as being appreciated by their customers and other stakeholders. Also, guests to these meetings are likely to see the venue as a reflection of the company’s goals.

Venues have also begun to shift towards smarter designs that not only make them accessible but smart as well which mean accommodating all kinds of transportation in order to save attendees added stress.

Venues have also seen the need to ensure that those attending events can connect with the outside world, by ensuring that connectivity is being provided for at events. This has become a priority for event centers and is one detail that clients appreciate.

Event centers are no more focusing on just providing halls for use but also adding other services as well such as catering, event coordination, wait staff, bartending, décor and rentals of several of equipment not included in contract.

2. Executive Summary

Sheldon Event Center, a leading event center is based in 3900 NW 120 St, in Urbandale – Iowa, USA. We offer unique and personalized services to all our clients domestic and corporate. We provide event coordination and offer our clients planning expertise as well as an extraordinary wait staff service, in addition to our core service which is the provision of a conducive hall to host all kinds of events.

As any other business, we have established our business not only to offer our customers an unforgettable experience but to also make profit whilst ensuring that we can favorably compete with other competitors in the same industry.

Our halls are not only conducive but also offer modern amenities that will make the guests of our clients turn into our clients. We have the best facilities and also the right people to handle these amenities. Our staffs are not only professionals with the added touch of competence but have the experience to anticipate the needs of our clients.

Our strong business structure has led us into deploying the best means of sourcing for and recruiting the best staffs for our business. We not only believe in recruiting the best but in ensuring that they are in tune with our vision and objectives and are committed to seeing us achieve our goals as a company.

We believe in ensuring that our employees are not only productive but that they remain happy whilst carrying out their tasks, it is for this reason that we have created a unique welfare package for them that is the best in the industry amongst our category. Also, we have put in place polices that will allow for the continuous trainings of our employees in order to enhance their skills.

Our customer care service is excellent as we have those who not only have a thorough knowledge of the industry but keep informed on current trends to handle this position and therefore help inquiring clients better understand what they are seeking for.

Because we know how important our clients are, we have strategies in place that will ensure that our loyal clients get incentives which comes in form of a discount for every client they refer to us. This has made most of our clients turn into active marketers on our behalf and has grown our revenue base tremendously.

Finally, our Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Lori Sheldon has over 15 years of experience in event coordination as well as in catering. This experience in addition to several certifications in event planning will help take our business to the desired level it intends to attain.

3. Our Products and Services

Sheldon Event Center is the one stop event center that intends to offer our various customers a beautiful experience while also exceeding their expectations with the various services that we intend to offer them at our event center.

Our intention of establishing Sheldon Event Center is to make profit just like any other business and so in addition to our core service, we intend to offer other services as well so as to create multiple sources of income for our business. All our services will be offered within the permissible laws of the service industry as well as the laws of the united states of America.

Therefore some of the services we intend to offer are;

• An event center for weddings, business meetings, rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, corporate parties, and fundraisers
• Tables, chairs, China and linens rentals
• Audio/visual equipment rentals
• Event hosts and wait staff
• Consultancy services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision as an event center is to exceed the expectations of our clients by giving them a beautiful experience as well as event space for all their types of special events.
• In order to achieve our vision we have the required coordination and planning expertise for all types of events, with professional and competent staff that would help make the events of our clients a memorable one.

Our Business Structure

Having the right business structure is very important to us as at Sheldon event center and so we have laid the right plans that will ensure that our foundation is not only right but stays true to our core values and vision as a company. This is why we sourced for and have hired competent professionals who are diligent and true to work ethics into the various positions we have in our company.

Our vision as a company is to ensure that all our clients’ expectations are not only met but exceeded as well. This is why all the staff which we have hired are ones that have not only identified with our vision but know what it takes to take our company from where we are at present to where we intend to and should be in future.

Our staff also have the expertise required to work in this industry and bring it to an enviable standard compared to that of our competitors.

Due to the fact that we intend to run several services in addition to our core service, we have ensured that we have the required number of staff to handle the various services which we intend to offer at Sheldon Event Center. Below is the business structure that will be built at Sheldon Event Center;

Chief Executive Officer

Facility Manager

Human Resources and Admin Manager

Marketing Executives

Customer Service Executives

Event Coordinator

Security Guard

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

• In charge of drafting strategic policies on behalf of the organization and ensuring that it is implemented
• Drafts the budget in collaboration with the accountant on behalf of the organization
• Sources for high deals on behalf of the organization
• In charge of ensuring that the facility is ready for events whenever the needs arises
• Inspects the facilities to ensure that everything is up to standard and effects repairs when need be
• Sources for clients on behalf of the event center
• Sources for and recruits the right staff either permanent or temporary on behalf of the event center
• In charge of staff welfare and training as well as other incentives due to staff
• Ensures that all the administrative functions are conducted smoothly
• Prepares all the financial statements on behalf of Sheldon Event Center
• Ensures that balances between banks and the event center are reconciled each month
• Prepares and submit correct tax reports to tax officials on behalf of the organization
• Conducts market research on behalf of the organization in order to determine new markets
• Drafts and reviews marketing strategies to ensure that they are more effective on behalf of the organization
• Empowered to conduct direct marketing to clients on behalf of the organization
• Handles all inquiries of clients as well as bookings
• Creates and maintains an accurate customer database on behalf of Sheldon event Center
• Ensures that clients complaints are promptly attended to and resolved
• Ensures that events are coordinated according to the requirements of the clients
• Ensures that clients expectations are not only met but exceeded positively
• Coordinates with other staff to ensure that event is a success
• Ensure that the premises is kept secure especially during events
• Monitors the security cameras during events to prevent security mishap
• Provides security tips to all staff so as to enable them carry out their jobs better
• Ensures that they deliver our supplies and also pick up same as at when due
• Carry out light maintenance on the vehicle and ensure that it is in good condition
• Carry out other duties as might be assigned by the administrative manager
• Ensure that the premises are kept clean before and after an event
• Ensure that the convenience for staff, clients and their guests is kept clean at all times
• Ensures that cleaning supplies are adequately stocked and replaced as at when due

6. SWOT Analysis

Like every successful business out there, we intend to ensure that our event center is of the required standard whilst also offering the best services and so to ensure that we attain this, we hired a reputable business consultant here in Urbandale _ Iowa, to help us critically look through our business concept and determine if we had what it takes to become a standard company.

Due to our request, the hired business consultant had to use the SWOT analysis in taking stock of our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to determine how we were likely to fare in the industry fare in the industry here in Iowa and in the whole of the United States of America as a whole.  Below is the result of the critical analysis conducted on behalf of Sheldon Event Center;

Our strength lies in the fact that we offer diverse services that will meet any requirements by our clients, which allows us stand apart from our competitors. Also, we have professional and competent staffs at hand to ensure that every event no matter the kind is conducted smoothly.

Our halls are not only well designed but also convenient as well as we also have the grounds for customers who want an outdoor ceremony. Finally, the expertise of our Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Lori Sheldon who not only has amassed several years of experience but also has several qualifications, is another of our strength at Sheldon Event Center.

This industry is saturated with these kinds of businesses; however, we intend to stand apart from our competitors by offering unique services that will attract the customers and offering excellent customer care that will retain most of our customers.

• Opportunities

There are various opportunities that abound for us because the halls can be converted to any kind of event that intends to be hosted by our clients. We also can cater to religious bodies who intend to use our halls for regular meetings.

There are various threats that exist to every business in general, and so the probability of facing threats is not alarming to us. The threats we are likely to face in the course of starting and running the business are the off-peak periods, where there are less likely events to be thrown.

We however have come up with other services that will generate income for us during these periods. Another threat is having a major competitor offering same services in the same location. We have proactive measures in place that will ensure that we remain unique and different in all the services that we would be offering.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

Every month there is an event of some sort that is being thrown, which makes having an event center one of the best businesses for any entrepreneur to go into. It should however be noted that this industry have peak periods such as during the middle and end of the year where more events are thrown than during any other times in the year.

Therefore any entrepreneur going into this business must be conversant with the peak and off peak periods in the industry so as to be able to accordingly make proactive plans that would be strategic for the growth of the business.

What most event centers have started incorporating into their core services is the addition of other services – such as catering, bartending, professional wait staff, event coordinator – that will make it easier for their clients who are planning for an event; this would ensure that clients do not have to bother about contracting others for these services, therefore creating more income for these event centers, whilst also allowing them to gain a huge share of the market.

Event centers that do not offer such services are now few but they however are in contact with professionals that run such services thereby making it easy for clients, who do not wish to have to source for these extra services themselves.

Finally, the advent of technology especially the internet has upped competition amongst event centers and also caused most to review the services offered so as to be amongst the industry leaders.

Every event center now has a website that not only point to all the services they offer but also show the clients attractive pictures of the center so as to attract more clients to patronize their services. Also, social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook are being used to effectively market to clients.

8. Our Target Market

The target market for this industry is quite huge as there are events that are being thrown every now and then consisting of different types of crowd, which makes for a huge customer base for event centers.

Therefore, our event center cannot be restricted to just hosting weddings, parties, fundraising and business meetings but it can host any event that our client deems worthy to celebrate or carry out. Our strategic location in Iowa has offered us ample opportunity to be able to tap into the target market.

However, we intend to conduct a market research in order to fully understand our target market and know what they expect from us, this will help us properly draft the strategies that would be needed to attract more customers to our business.

From the result of our market research, we have found that we are in business to offer our wide range of services to the following groups of people;

• Business organizations
• Government agencies
• Non-profit organizations
• Religious bodies
• Educational institutions
• Financial institutions
• Celebrities

Our competitive advantage

Whilst starting Sheldon Event Center, we intend to ensure that our business is not only established to make profit but is also able to compete favorably with our competitors in the industry. Our vision is to ensure that we not only meet but exceed the expectations of all the clients that make use of our event center and our services, and this is one of our competitive advantages against our competitors.

Our event centers have modern and conducive facilities such as 4 room options that have various capacities of 30 to 500 guests, thereby giving our clients varied options in terms of picking something suitable for their event.

Another competitive advantage we have is the fact that we have an individual event coordinator that will help coordinate the events of clients’ throughout the duration of the event, thereby allowing our client have a stress-free event.

Asides, the event coordinator, we also have a professional wait staff that have the experience of handling different kinds of occasions that will crop up at our event center. All our staff project and communicate our brand all the time by giving excellent customer service to our clients regardless of events or packages.

Another competitive advantage we have is our décor service which is also part of the services we offer. We go beyond the average décor and give our clients a wonderful experience that is best experienced.

Finally, we are the best at caring for our employees as we offer the best salaries and welfare packages in the whole of Iowa within our category as a start-up event center in the industry. We also ensure that our employees undergo training that will enable them become better and more productive for our business.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Sheldon Event Center has been established to offer our clients a full range of services for their events with the aim of maximizing profits for our business in the service and hospitality industry in the United States of America. We have different other services that are not only intended to generate income but also to be able to cater to all the needs of our different clients.

Therefore, Sheldon Event Center will generate income by offering the following services;

10. Sales Forecast

This industry is one that will never dip as there are always events that are usually conducted every now and then, thereby resulting in the booking of event centers.

Our location in Urbandale – Iowa has us quite optimistic in that we will not only met our set revenue generating target in the first year but that we will make marginal profit that will allow us grow our business and eventually expand it during the second year.

However, to be able to make a factual sales projection, we have been able to take a critical look at the industry in order to analyze our chances and come up with a sales forecast that we can use to adequately plan and draft strategies for our business.

The sales projection was however gathered based on information and assumptions that were peculiar to event center start-ups here in Urbandale – Iowa. Therefore below are an accurate sales projection for Sheldon Event Center based on the location of our business and several other assumptions;

• First Fiscal Year-: $250,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $500,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $900,000

N.B : The above projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry, and also on several assumptions such as an arrival of a major competitor in same location, as well as a continuous and steady economic growth, within the period of the above projections. Should there be any change in the assumptions either positively or negatively, it is likely to affect the above stated figures, causing an increase or a decrease.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

The event center business just like any business will require marketing in order to not only create awareness for the business but to also ensure that revenue is generated to keep the business going. To draft effective marketing strategies that will bring the best results for Sheldon event Center, we conducted a market survey that allowed us privy to information that will enable us to not only penetrate the market and attract the right customers but also compete favorably with other top event centers here in Urbandale – Iowa.

We have also hired the services of a reputable marketing consultant, who understands the business and industry well to help us achieve our intended marketing goals and objectives. The marketing consultant will look at what strategies will be more effective for us in the short and long run.

Our marketing teams have been empowered to look through the strategies and ensure that they align with the company’s core values and will communicate our brand positively to customers. Our marketing teams have also been empowered to review, tweak and remove strategies that are considered ineffective on behalf of the company.

We know how important the internet especially as regards improving the effectiveness of marketing. We intend to build an interactive website that will show our attractive halls and other services to clients, especially potential ones. Our social media platforms will also be used to target our customers online and generate interest about our event center.

Therefore the following are the strategic measures we will adopt at Sheldon Event Center to market our various services;

• Visit corporations and government agencies to formally introduce our event center and all the services we offer
• Throw a unique themed party when we open our business in order to generate interest and create awareness about our vent center
• Advertise our event center in local newspapers, magazines as well as on radio and television stations
• Engage in direct marketing
• Ensure that our business is listed in online and offline directories
• Use social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and Twitter as well as our website to market our event center

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Publicity is a very important process for any business that intends to create awareness in the industry. Even though we offer the best and unrivaled services here at Sheldon Event Center, we intend to continue to publicize this so that our customers – existing and potential as well as our competitors can be aware of what we are offering. In publicizing our event center, we intend to explore all means that will allow us gain the awareness we seek.

Publicity and advertising is a two edge sword because not only does it make a business gets noticed, it also serves as a means of generating revenue for the company. This is why our publicity and advertising strategies will be drafted with a publicity consultant so that we not only advertise and increase our awareness but also effectively communicate our brand.

Therefore, below are the various platforms, we intend to use in publicizing and advertising Sheldon Event Center;

• Ensuring that we place adverts in local newspapers, magazines as well as on radio and on television stations
• Writing free columns for the local newspapers that are focused on event centers
• Allowing one non-profit organization have a free slot every quarter of the year
• Ensure that we use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to vigorously promote our business
• Distribute our handbills and paste our fliers in target and conspicuous areas
• Install our bill boards on strategic locations all around Urbandale – Iowa

12. Our Pricing Strategy

When it comes to the rates we intend to charge for our services, we have come up with a pricing strategy that will meet with the budget of our clients here in Iowa. There are different packages and categories with varying rates available for all our different clients and we have ensured that each package is not only affordable but will meet and exceed the needs of all our different clients.

In a bid to raise awareness and also attract customers to our business, we intend to offer our customers a discount for the first three months of business. We have ensured that the discounted rates we will offer our clients will in no way allow us run at a loss even though we might be operating on a low profit margin for the duration of the discounted prices.

• Payment Options

Due to evolving technologies, we at Sheldon Event Center understand that there are varied payment options that our clients would prefer, and we have come up with different payment platforms that will be suitable for our different clients;

Below are the payment options that will be made available to our clients;

• Payment by check
• Payment via credit card
• Payment via online payment portal
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine

The above payment options were careful chosen by us and will run without any form of hitches or inconvenience to our clients.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

Starting an event center can be quite demanding especially at the initial stage, where one is expected to spend the bulk of capital on certain on certain aspects in order to ensure that the event center is up to standard. Most of the bulk of the capital usually goes to securing a hall and then equipping the hall to certain standards for clients.

Also, start-up capital is usually used to sustain the business by paying salaries of employees and certain bills until the business is able to generate the revenue that will allow it sustain itself. Therefore the key areas where we intend to spend our start-up capital are;

• Total business incorporation fees in the United States of America – $750
• Other legal expenses as well as obtaining of accounting software and licenses – $1,250
• Cost of hiring a business consultant – $1,500
• Insurance coverage (property insurance, general liability and workers’ compensation) – $2,000
• Cost of leasing a facility for a year and carrying out renovations – $70,000
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, bill payments) – $100,000
• Marketing promotion expenses (for grand opening as well as general marketing expenses) – $3,000
• Other start-up expenses (stationery, furniture, computers, printers, and phones) – $10,000
• Cost of start-up inventory (cutleries, linens, napkins, china and glassware) – $10,000
• Cost of purchasing a van – $20,000
• Cost of launching a website – $500
• Cost of throwing a grand opening party – $3,000
• Miscellaneous – $8,000

From the above analysis, we would need the sum of at least $230,000 in order to successfully start and run our event center business in Urbandale – Iowa. The amount above includes leasing of the facility for use as well as paying the salaries of employees for at least 3 months.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Sheldon Event Center Business

Sheldon Event Center is a local business owned and financed by Ms. Lori Sheldon. Ms. Sheldon does not intend to seek for external investors in running or financing her business, hence her reason for restricting the sources of income to just 3 sources;

The three areas where the start-up capital will be generated from are;

• From personal savings and sale of stock
• Soft loan from family members and friends
• Loan from commercial bank

N.B: Sheldon Event Center has been able to generate $30,000 from the personal savings of Ms. Sheldon. $15,000 was gotten from family members and friends and the business is at its final stage of obtaining the sum of $185,000 from the bank. As it stands all the necessary documents have been signed and the amount will likely be credited to the business account any moment from now.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Every business that is established to make profit intends to use such profit in sustaining itself and possibly expanding based on the vision and objective of the company. Our sustainability and expansion strategy at Sheldon Event Center is drafted in such a way as to ensure that we continue in the business for a long time to come.

Firstly, we intend to ensure that we hire only competent and professional staffs that fully understand our core values as a company as well as the industry. Also, our staffs have the required expertise to ensure that our business is taken to the level it should be.

To keep our employees happy and productive, we intend to ensure that we provide a conducive working environment, have great welfare packages for them and also ensure that they undergo training every now and then that will not only enhance their skills but make them more productive for the company.

We intend to offer various services at our event center so as to be able to build a revenue base that will sustain us and ensure that we do not constantly go to seek for loans to be able to run the business. Our various services will also make us stand out from our competitors whilst ensuring that we have a healthy bottom line.

Finally, we intend to retain a high percentage of our clients by ensuring that we offer them the best customer service by our trained customer executives. Asides offering excellent customer care, we also intend to ensure that clients that refer us get an incentive and that repeat clients get a discount. These are the strategies we intend to apply in sustaining and expanding our event center business.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting feasibility studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – wholesale suppliers / merchants: In Progress
• Purchase of trucks: Completed

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Event Venue Business Plan Template

Published Jul.30, 2021

Updated Apr.22, 2024

By: Jakub Babkins

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Table of Content

Event venue business plan for starting your own agency

As long as humans inhabit the earth and they meet and greet each other, there will be a business for event planner. In this document, you will learn the details of a business plan for event venue. If you are interested in knowing how to open an event center business, this document will provide you with all the information you need for that. This is a complete strategic business plan that can be used to start the business from scratch. Unlike a gift shop business plan , this is a more details document and covers all the aspects of starting a business.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Daniel Event Agency will be a registered, insured, and bonded event management services provider in Miami, Florida. The business will specialize in providing all kinds of event management services from backyard birthday parties to corporate events with thousands of attendees. Daniel is starting an event venue because he has a lot of relevant experience. Most of the things in this business plan will resemble closely with those in a music festival business plan .

2.2 Management of Event Venue Business

If you want to know how to open an event center, you need to know the management structure of the business in detail. To run the business efficiently and smoothly, Daniel will hire two managers. They will be responsible for operations and marketing, respectively. The supreme authority in the business will reside will Daniel himself.

2.3 Customers of Event Venue Business

As people from, any field can need the services of an event management company, the customers of this event venue business plan pdf will be of a range of different types. These will include:

• People who are looking for a one-time domestic or business event.
• Private companies that need a permanent vendor for all their events.
• Government agencies wanting to hire someone for their events.
• Hotels and other service providers who want to arrange an event larger than their own scope.

2.4 Business Target

The target of Daniel Event Agency is to become the leading event organization services provider in all of Miami. The business target here will be vastly different than that in the case of an art gallery business plan . To do this, the business plan for bank will have the following objectives:

• Gaining at least 10 permanent clients and entering into long-term contracts with them.
• Establishing a name and becoming a respectable brand in the market.
• Start providing services in other cities and eventually in other states.

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Daniel Pearl will be the owner of this sample business plan for event venue. He is going to start this business because he has worked as an event planner for 10 years. He is the perfect man to start this business because he has the relevant experience and the passion to take the business to unprecedented heights.

3.2 Why the Event Venue Business is being started?

Daniel is starting the business due to three main reasons. Firstly, he has noticed that there is a severe gap in the provision of these services in the area. The services already available are not up to the mark of what the customers need, and he has assessed that the customers will welcome any new entrant. The second reason for starting this event venue rental business plan is that Daniel has recently won a lottery and wants to invest the money in a business. Thirdly, owning an event venue was always a dream for Daniel.

3.3 How the Event Venue Business will be started?

Step1: Planning the Feasibility

The most important part of any wedding and event venue business plan is planning the feasibility of the business and that has been done by Daniel. It has been noted in the feasibility report that the business is not only feasible but will also be very successful if started and executed the right way.

Step2: Developing a Brand

As the business is aimed to target the upper echelon of the society of Miami, having an established brand name for the business is cardinally important. Daniel will sign contracts with celebrities and local prominent politicians to market the business and make a reputable and well-known brand.

Step3: Establishing the Business 

The next step of this business plan for an event planner is to establish the actual presence of the business. Daniel will buy a plot to establish the office and some halls for hosting functions and events.

Step4: Going Online

Once the business has a physical presence, establishing the online presence is the next thing to do. For this, Daniel’s team will make a website for the business and social media pages will also be made to support it.

Step5: Promotion and Marketing

Last, but not least, the business will be properly marketed to make sure the people who can be potential customers of the business know of its existence.

As there are a number of different services provided by business event venues, it is important to decide which services we will be providing. It is also one of the most important parts of any business plan for event venue. Let’s see what services this event venue rent business will provide.

Event Management

This will be the main service provided by the business. Just like a business plan for a trampoline park , this will be the major source of income.

Event Decor

For the clients who do not want full event management services and only want someone for the décor of the event venue, we will provide these services.

Event Catering

Some clients only want event managers to take care of catering and they do the rest by themselves. These services will be for such customers.

Event Planning

For the people who want to get the event planned by professionals and executed it on their own, these services will be provided.

Marketing Analysis of Event Venue Business

Marketing analysis is one of the most important things for starting and successfully running an event venue. For this reason, Daniel has conducted a detailed marketing analysis and planned how he will be approaching the business. The things that are important for an event space business plan are in the coming paragraphs.

5.1 Market Trends

It is important that you have a look at the trends of the market before opening an event venue. That’s why we have made this a part of this event venue business plan template. It has been observed that the trend of holding events has sharply increased but the number of companies providing this service has largely stayed the same.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

The expected customers of the business will be divided into the following market segments:

5.2.1 Private Customers

This segment of the market will be the largest in number but the projects we get from this segment will be smaller ones. This will include private parties, birthdays, and weddings.

5.2.2 Corporate Customers

This segment will give us bigger projects, but the number of clients will be lower in this segment of the market. These customers will hire us for multi-day corporate events with hundreds or even thousands of attendees.

5.2.3 Business Customers

Small businesses will also be an important market segment for us.

5.2.4 Government Agencies

Local, state, and federal government agencies will form a major part of the business. They will hold large events but the number and frequency of these events will be lower.

5.3 Business Target

• To provide reliable and dependable event management services to the people of Miami.
• To make partnerships with major corporations in the are and become their permanent event planners.
• To make a brand in event management and planning that people can trust.
• To start making profit within the first six months

5.4 Product Pricing

We will keep the price of our services and products below the average price offered by the competition. This will help us get customers. This approach will be used for the first six months and then we will offer the services at a high price to make profit.

Marketing Strategy

In order to start and successfully run a business plan event venue, you need to have a proper marketing strategy for it and that is what we are going to discuss in this part of this event venue business plan template. We need to make sure that we approach the target market the right way and get customers that can make the best profit for us in the business. To do that, the following marketing strategy was made.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

• It has been noted in the detailed analysis of the market that there is not even a single company providing comprehensive event venue services in the area.
• The companies that do provide this service do not have the capacity to meet the demands of the public.
• There is not even a single established company in this market segment and if we make a brand we can earn serious money.

6.2 Sales Strategy

• Daniel Event Agency will be marketed using print, electronic and social media channels in the area we want to do the business in.
• We will offer the services at lower costs and with better quality than the competition to gain customers.
• We will partner up with well-known companies in the area to make a name for the business and will use that as a competitive edge.

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Personnel plan

The next thing that is an important part of a business plan for event venue is a plan of the staff that will be needed to run the business. As most of the work done by an events agency is on contract basis, most of the staff needed for the projects will be hired on daily wages when required. The requirement of a permanent staff for the business will not be that high.

7.1 Company Staff

The following people will be needed to run the business:

• Daniel Pearl, the owner will be the CEO of the business.
• 2 managers will be hired for operations and marketing.
• 1 décor planner.
• 1 accountant.
• 4 waiters & general assistants
• 1 office attendant.

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan.

The last part of this event venue rental business plan is the financial part of things. A lot of money will be needed from the moment working on the business is started to the time it starts making profit. The costs for starting this business, just like a amusement park business plan can be divided into the following:

• The cost needed to buy land and construct the halls for events.
• Salary of the employees.
• Money needed for buying vehicles for the business.
• Cost of marketing and advertisement of the business.
• Cost of buying the stuff needed to run the business.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 break-even analysis.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 profit monthly.

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 business ratios.

Download Event Venue Business Plan Sample in PDF

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How to Start an Event Venue Business: A Comprehensive Guide

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From weddings and corporate events to reunions and birthday parties, event spaces are always in demand. 

But opening your own event venue is hard work. You’ll need to secure a location, obtain permits and licenses, buy equipment, hire staff and market your space - all before opening day. 

With so many factors to consider, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. 

Don't worry, though - we’re here to guide you through the process step by step.

By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .

How to start an event venue

1. do your research.

Before you start scouting properties or buying equipment, sit down and do some research. 

Start by focusing on the type of event venue you want to create. Are you interested in weddings, corporate events, or something else? 

By specializing in a specific niche, you can tailor your business to meet the needs of your target audience.

For example, if you want to cater to corporate events, you may want to focus on offering services like audiovisual equipment and conference rooms.

Once you have a general idea of what you want to offer, research the market to see what’s already out there. 

Look at other event venues in your area and find out what they offer, how they market themselves, and what their prices look like. This will help you figure out what your event venue can provide that’s unique and competitive.

It can also be helpful to list out all the pros and cons of starting an event venue business. Consider factors such as the time, money, and resources it will take to get your space up and running.

2. Create a business plan

It's important to have a solid business plan in place before you start sinking money into your venue.

A business plan outlines your goals, target market, products, pricing, marketing strategy, and financial projections. You’ll need one if you plan to apply for any business loans . 

Here are the basic parts of a business plan.

• Executive summary: Provides a brief overview of the venue, including its name, location, and unique selling proposition.
• Market analysis: Look at your competitors' prices and target audience to identify gaps in the local market your event venue could fill. 
• Product and services: Will you offer catering? What other add-on services do you plan to offer?
• Marketing and sales plan: This section details how you plan to advertise your venue, grow your sales, and reach customers. 
• Financial plan and projections: Determine the startup costs, including equipment, leasing or buying the property, renovations, and any employee wages. You'll also need to consider ongoing expenses like insurance and maintenance. Then map out your projected sales for the next one to five years. This will help you determine how much funding you'll need to start your business and how long it will take to break even.

3. Find the perfect location

Location is everything when it comes to event venues. You want a spot that’s accessible with the right vibe for your niche. Look for areas with easy access to transportation, parking and nearby hotels.

You’ll also want to make sure the space is zoned for the type of events you want to host.

When it comes to the venue itself, you'll need to consider the size of the space, the layout and any necessary amenities. For example, if you're targeting weddings, you'll need space for a dance floor, a bridal suite, and a ceremony area.

Look for spaces with high ceilings, plenty of natural light and an easily customizable open floor plan.

Maybe you already own a location and are interested in turning it into an event venue. You’ll still need to assess the property and determine if it’s missing certain amenities or if it needs any renovations. 

4. Obtain the necessary permits and licenses

Before you can open your doors, you'll need to get the proper permits and licenses. 

Requirements will vary depending on your state and the type of events you plan to host, but in general, you'll need to get a business license and liability insurance. Additional permits and licenses may also be required if you plan to serve alcohol and food or play music at night. 

You may also need to hire contractors and inspectors to ensure that your space is up to code and ready to pass any safety and fire inspections. 

Check with your local government to find out what’s required in your area.

5. Take care of business

Certain elements of starting a business remain the same, whether you’re starting a bakery or opening an event venue. 

Here are the legal and financial steps to take before you can open. 

Pick a business structure

There are four major legal business entities you can register as: a sole proprietorship, a partnership, a limited liability company (LLC), or a corporation. 

An LLC is usually the best legal structure for a new event venue business because it offers liability protection for its owners. Sole proprietors and partnerships don't, which means If someone is injured on your property or if you're sued for another reason, you could be held personally responsible for any damages. 

Of course, it's important to consult with a legal and tax professional to determine the best legal structure for your business. 

Figure out your taxes

As a business owner, you’ll need to pay a host of new taxes, including federal taxes, sales taxes and payroll taxes .

Consulting with an accountant is a smart move. A tax professional can advise you on how to structure your business to minimize your tax bill and help you file your tax returns.

You’ll also need an employer identification number (EIN) , a unique identifier assigned by the Internal Revenue Service.

You can apply on the IRS website for free, and the EIN is usually issued immediately.

Best small business tax software

Taxes can be complicated. Here’s everything you need to know about how to file small business taxes .

Open a business bank account

You may be required by law to open a separate business bank account for tax purposes, depending on which state you live in. Either way, it’s a good idea to have dedicated accounts in your business’ name. Many banks and credit unions offer business checking and savings accounts .

You may want to consider opening a small business credit card , too. It can help you rack up points and cash back on business expenses, while keeping your personal and business finances separate.

Top banks for small businesses

Pro tip: Need to pay for start-up costs? Here are the best high-limit business credit cards .

6. Figure out your pricing

Pricing your venue may seem tricky, especially when you're just starting out. 

Researching your competitors’ rates is the best place to start. As a new business, you’ll want to offer a lower price initially to help get clients in the door. 

Something else to consider: Different types of events come with different budgets. You can usually charge more for a wedding than a corporate meeting, for example. Consider the type of events you plan to host and adjust your pricing accordingly.

Offering different packages or tiers can also help you appeal to a wider range of clients. You could offer a basic four-hour package that only includes the space rental for $800 and a premium six-hour wedding package that includes catering and linens for $5,000.

7. Secure funding

Starting an event venue business involves significant upfront costs. Unless you’re sitting on gobs of cash, you’ll likely need to obtain some kind of funding. 

Here are a few of your options. Keep in mind that a lending marketplace, like Nav , can offer access to more than one product.

Business line of credit

A business line of credit works similarly to a credit card, where the borrower is approved for a maximum amount of credit that they can draw upon as needed.

Interest rates for business lines of credit are usually higher than those for commercial loans, but they can be a good option for businesses that need quick access to cash.

Compare the best business lines of credit

Data as of 3/21/23. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Small business microloans

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers microloans worth up to $50,000 to help small businesses start and expand. Big caveat: These loans cannot be used to purchase real estate.

Traditional commercial loans

To qualify for traditional commercial loans , which are available at banks and credit unions, you'll need to have a solid business plan and a good credit score. You’ll also need collateral, such as a home or car, and time in business or revenue thresholds for some loans. 

Be prepared to provide financial statements, tax returns, and other documents to support your loan application.

Pro tip: About 75% of small businesses get turned down for loans by big banks. Here’s a list of the best alternative business loans from online lenders.

8. Hire a sales manager - and the rest of your staff

As the owner, you’ll be busy managing the overall operations of your business. You’ll need someone to focus on attracting clients so your new event venue can turn a profit.

A good sales manager can help increase revenue by booking events, building relationships with clients and generating leads.

A sales manager should arguably be the first employee you hire. After all, you don’t need wait staff if your venue can’t land contracts.

Eventually, you’ll need to hire other staff, including:

• A venue coordinator
• Kitchen staff
• Set-up and clean-up crew

Hiring your own employees can be expensive and time-consuming. An employment agency or partnering with a caterer might be an alternative when you’re starting out. They can provide you with pre-screened and qualified candidates — without the administrative hassle of hiring your own full-time staff.

Creating a clear written communication plan for your staff is also key.

Jackie Espinosa is a small business owner in Kissimmee, Florida, who opened her venue, Chandeliers Ballroom and Event Center , several years ago. Her space fits up to 80 people and hosts everything from intimate weddings to bar mitzvahs and baby showers.

“Getting a reliable and happy team behind you will make it so much easier to create fun memories for families,” Espinosa said.

She added: “Checklists are a must. Detail is everything and will keep people coming back.”

9. Start buying stuff

An event venue is more than a big, open space. To host great parties, you’ll need lots of equipment and supplies, including tables, chairs, plates, silverware, audiovisual equipment, table linens, and glasses. 

“We knew our capacity was 80 people, so we purchased 100 of everything,” Espinosa said. “Just in case something breaks.”  

Buying all these items upfront can set you back thousands of dollars.

To keep costs low, consider renting or leasing some of your supplies from an outside vendor until you can afford to buy it outright. 

You can also look for second-hand tables, chairs and lighting equipment from other event venues, liquidation sales, or online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. 

However, don’t scrimp on quality just to save a few bucks. 

“My advice to new venue owners is to purchase high quality tables and chairs,” Espinosa said. “It’s a great investment because they get plenty of wear and tear. Also, good linens will save you time and energy.”   

Don’t forget about the decor either. You’ll need to create a stellar ambience, and that might require a sizable investment. 

“Decorating the venue was a large expense,” Espinosa said. “We spent a lot of money on collections of centerpieces and decided to bring on two decorators.”

10. Market your event venue

Once your event venue is up and running, it’s time to get the word out.

Here are a few ways to market your business without breaking the bank.

• Leverage social media: Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to showcase your space, share photos of past events and connect with potential clients. You can also run targeted ads on these platforms to reach a larger audience.
• Feedback and referrals: Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on sites like Yelp or Google, and offer referral discounts to help pull in new clients.
• Attend networking events: Local networking events and trade shows are a great way to meet other business owners. Bring business cards and be prepared to talk about what sets your venue apart from others in the area.
• List your business on directories: Websites like WeddingWire and The Knot offer a database couples can use to search for wedding venues in their area. Make sure yours is listed and keep your profile up-to-date.
• Partner with local vendors: Building relationships with local vendors like caterers, florists, and photographers can be a win-win for both parties. Offer to feature their services on your website or social media and, in exchange, ask them to promote your venue to their clients.
• Make a website: A website is a must-have for any business. Make sure yours includes high-quality photos of your space, contact information, and pricing details.

Compare the top website builders for small businesses

How much does it cost to start an event venue business.

The cost of opening an event venue varies widely, but expect to spend anywhere from $50,000 to $1 million. 

Why such a huge range?

Your overall costs largely depend on the location you choose. If you already own the space, your startup costs will be significantly lower than someone who plans to purchase a historical concert hall near downtown Boston. 

You’ll also need to factor in the cost of renovations and all the equipment you’ll need to buy. The cost will vary depending on the size of your venue. For example, a small event venue may require around 100 chairs and tables, which may cost around $5,000, while a larger venue may require 1,000 chairs and tables, which could run upwards of $50,000.

At the end of the day, opening an event venue is a costly endeavor. But it can be extremely rewarding, too. 

“We get to help capture and create a moment in time for people,”  Espinosa said.  “It’s a fun and memorable experience.”

With the right funding sources and business plan in place, you can transform your hard work into steady profits. 

Rachel Christian is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance and a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder. She focuses on small businesses, retirement, investing and taxes.

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Corporate Retreat Professionals

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">, opportunity.

Companies need to make sure their employees have the best training and tools available.  They use the retreats to help colleagues get together and work well together which helps avoid turnover. Happy coworkers mean happy customers

The Corporate Retreat Professionals (CRP) is an event planning company specializing in corporate customers.  CRP will offer two types of services, retreat training services as well as product launch event planning.  The retreat training services will be either leadership development training or teaming skills training.  For both types of retreats, CRP can take care of the planning of the event, as well as actually hosting the training through the use of one of CRP’s strategic business partners.

The corporate market for event planning is steady and profitable.  For some large companies, economic downturns mean cuts in training. This is, however, only the case for short sighted companies.  The benchmark companies may trim down the workforce during a downturn, but they do not cut funds for training.  They recognize that investing in human resources is always a good investment.  CRP intends to profit nicely from this.  Additionally, even in economic downturns, companies still have product launches and will still need someone to organize these events.  In short, the need for corporate event planning/hosting services rarely diminishes, it is a steadily increasing demand that CRP will capitalize on.

Competition

In the past, the buying patterns for the larger corporations was in the past to have an in-house solution. This pattern is is disappearing in favor of outsourcing as there is the constant drive for gains in efficiency, something outsourcing can offer.

Corporate Retreat Professionals will provide companies with the highest level of event planning.  We exist to attract and maintain customers.  When we adhere to this maxim, everything else will fall into place.  Our services will exceed the expectations of our customers.

Expectations

Financial highlights by year, financing needed.

We will be getting $50,000 from the owner and founder of the company. 

Problem & Solution

Problem worth solving, our solution.

Corporate Retreat Professionals will provide companies with the highest level of event planning.  We exist to attract and maintain customers.  When we adhere to this maxim, everything else will fall into place.  Our services will exceed the expectations of our customers.

Target Market

Market size & segments.

CRP will serve the corporate customer in the event planning market.  CRP will be specializing in two important niches.  The first is leadership development and teaming skills development.  With the recent trend in corporate downsizing, corporations are ditching their in-house solutions in favor of outsourcing.  Even though we are in the midst of an economic downturn, investments in human capital are generally not reduced.  Corporations still have the need for leadership development and teaming skills development.  These are investments that cost a bit up front but pay nice returns in the long run.  These are the services that CRP will specialize in.

Additionally, CRP will offer event planning for product launches.  Product launches are an integral stage in the release of a new product, communicating to the public about the new "thing" the company has just released.  Our customers will be companies seeking to raise awareness about their new product release.  CRP will provide a complete service of planning and hosting these product release events.

4.1 Market Segmentation

CRP is providing services to corporate customers only.  We will not be going after the "social market" which is an alternative market within the event planning niche. 

The corporate customer is a company that contracts with CRP to plan and typically host an event for the company.  Corporations will be turning to CRP to plan the events because:

• It is cost effective for a third party to plan the event.  This is the case because the third party only does event planning so they can plan and host the event more efficiently.
• The company does not have additional people that can be taken away from their daily tasks to invest time in this infrequent event.

Our event planning services for corporate retreats will typically be utilized by larger corporations.  A larger company can be generally defined as one with more than 40 employees.  Smaller companies sometimes will utilize this service of ours, however, it is the larger corporations that typically have the budget for this activity.

For our product launch event planning, we will be servicing companies of all different sizes.  Typically the companies that use this service will be product based companies, but we will also offer this service to service-based companies who desire to announce a new service that they are offering.

CRP is targeting large companies for our corporate retreat event planning.  The large corporations typically have the budget and the foresight to recognize the value in corporate retreats.  In addition, it is the larger corporations that typically use the corporate retreat as a training session for their employees.  The training is typically in leadership development or teaming skills.  While they do have these retreats at different intervals through the year,  it is more cost effective for them to hire a service such as CRP to plan the events when needed instead of paying the carrying costs of having a full-time, trained employee ready to do the planning when it is needed.

CRP’s product release planning services will be targeted at all different size companies.  Companies of all sizes have product release and it is unusual for them to have product release many times a year requiring someone to be a full-time planner on staff.  Therefore, it makes sense for them to hire an outside service to plan the event using their expertise in event planning to drive down the costs of production and hosting.

Current Alternatives

Currently there are three other companies that offer event planning specifically to corporations. They however, tend to do events that are more general in scope such as parties to reward customers or employees, or events to change the company image. There is no company that specializes in event planning of corporate training and product release events. There are companies that offer corporate training, but these companies provide the actual training and do not do any of the actual event planning/ logistics of the entire event.

There are companies that provide product-release services, but they do not specialize in it. Because event planning is a tight market, CRP will benefit from their specialization in this area.

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CRP’s second competitive edge is based on the use of strategic relationships. CRP clearly realizes that they cannot be good at everything. CRP believes it is better to concentrate on a few things, excel in those areas, and form strategic partnerships with companies that excel in the service areas that CRP doesn’t. Applying this philosophy, CRP has decided in addition to planning corporate retreat training sessions, they want to offer the service of hosting/leading these events as well. The service of hosting/leading however, is quite different than planning and CRP believes that it would be more cost effective to form a strategic relationship with an expert in this field instead of trying to become proficient themselves. CRP then is able to offer a top-notch service offering of hosting/leading the training seminars but does not have to invest heavily in developing the program.

The use of strategic relationships is unusual in the event planning space. Most event planners are generalists and try to do a little of everything. CRP is following the model of benchmark companies in other industries that have recognized the value of specialization and the use of strategic relationships.

Keys to Success

Our keys to Success are: 

• Create a service-based company whose #1 value is exceeding customer’s expectations.
• Utilize of CRP’s services in 10 of the 100 top performing companies as listed by the Seattle Business Journal.
• Increase our number of served clients by 20% per year through superior service.
• Develop a sustainable, profitable start-up business.

Marketing & Sales

Marketing plan.

CRP will, for the most part, be using the sale strategy of personal selling. With his five years of consulting for larger corporations, Jeff has formed relationships throughout the business community. Jeff will initially leverage these relationships to form some initial clients. Once things get rolling and CRP has developed some satisfied clients, Jeff will be developing relationships with his network of friends developed through the Chambers of Commerce and trade shows.

Jeff’s spiel to prospective customers will be based on the high level of service offered and cost advantages by going with CRP. The cost savings can be quantified and shown to the customer while the higher level of service can be guaranteed as well as communicated through testimonials from satisfied clients.

Additionally, the website will be used not only to communicate information to prospective customers but also a method of communication where CRP can provide more specialized information such as cost estimates as well as answering questions through the site.

CRP will offer event planning for the corporate market.  CRP will concentrate on two types of event planning:

• Corporate retreats – These events are typically used for two different reasons.  They are either a leadership training or teaming skills training where employees of the corporations are sent away to develop these skills.  In addition to the planning of the events, CRP will be able to host the event as well.  While CRP’s core competencies are not in hosting, CRP will align itself with a well-respected host of leadership development/teaming skills programs and have them assist CRP in the hosting aspect.  Using a strategic partner, in this case, allows CRP to stick with a narrow focus but still offer the service to our customers.
• Product launches – These are events where the corporation is releasing a product and they have an event that is open to people outside of the corporation.  The purpose of the product launch event is to create visibility for the new release. 

Milestones & Metrics

Milestones table, key metrics.

Our Key Metrics are: 

• # of monthly customers, we would like to slowly increase our monthly customers 
• #of return customers 
• # of reviews and recommendations 
• food and drink inventory turnover
• each even cost of goods 
• cost of training our staff 
• # of events and of rooms occupied to break even 

Ownership & Structure

CRP is a Washington corporation whose sole stock holder is Jeff Organizer. Jeff will be incorporating to protect himself from personal liability.

Management Team

Jeff Organizer, Founder and President, has a degree in Business from the University of Washington. After college, Jeff spent five years working for Andersen Consulting. During these years, Jeff became familiar with a large number of companies and the important players in the Seattle business community. While working for Andersen, Jeff attended an MBA night program and received his MBA in 1996.

After completing his degree, Jeff decided to join Boeing in their PR department. It was at Boeing where Jeff learned the bulk of his organizing and event planning skills. These skills, in conjunction with his MBA education, gave Jeff the confidence to handle a wide range of business propositions. After three years at Boeing, Jeff decided to start his own business. Corporate Retreat Professionals was finally born

Personnel Table

Financial plan investor-ready personnel plan .">, key assumptions.

Our key assumptions are: 

• Personnel are the difference between customers choosing one company over the other, training is key 
• happy bonded coworkers mean longer hours and better products 
• there are a set number of events we need to breakeven. more will make us a profit. 

Revenue by Month

Expenses by month, net profit (or loss) by year, use of funds.

Start-up Expenses

Legal 1,000

Stationery etc. $300

Brochures $300

Consultants $300

Insurance $200

Rent $1,000

Office equipment $300

TOTAL START-UP EXPENSES$3,400

In addition we will be having $5,000 of long term assets.  The remainder of the $50,000 will be used as cash to help fund the operations. 

Sources of Funds

We will be getting $50,000 from the owner. 

Projected Profit & Loss

Projected balance sheet, projected cash flow statement.

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How to Rent an Event Location for Business or Corporate Events

Last Updated:  

May 27, 2024

Planning a business or corporate event can be exciting yet challenging. One of the key factors for success is finding the perfect venue. Whether it's a product launch, team-building workshop, corporate retreat, or a formal conference, the right location sets the tone and ensures a memorable experience. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate the process, with a special mention of EventButler.ch to make your search and booking easier.

Key Takeaways on Renting a Location for Corporate Events

• Define Event Requirements: Clearly outline the purpose, guest count, location preference, budget, and needed amenities for your event to streamline the venue search.
• Utilise Specialised Platforms: Use services like EventButler.ch to filter venues based on specific criteria, view descriptions, photos, and read reviews for informed decisions.
• Evaluate Venue Accessibility: Ensure the venue is easily accessible for attendees and can comfortably accommodate your guest list with a suitable layout for your event's activities.
• Assess Venue Facilities: Check the availability and quality of essential facilities and equipment such as AV gear, Wi-Fi, catering services, and parking options.
• Professional Staff Interaction: Gauge the professionalism and responsiveness of the venue’s staff during your visit to ensure smooth coordination and support for your event.
• Review and Negotiate Contracts: Carefully review venue contracts for transparent costs, payment terms, cancellation policies, and inclusions to avoid unexpected charges.
• Plan Event Logistics: Coordinate setup and breakdown times, arrange additional technical support, and secure reliable catering if not provided by the venue to ensure a seamless event.

Define Your Event Needs

Before diving into venue options, take a moment to outline what your event requires. Consider the purpose of your event: Is it formal or informal? How many people are you expecting? Where should it be located? And, importantly, what’s your budget? Also, think about the amenities you might need, like AV equipment, Wi-Fi, catering, and parking. Having a clear picture of these aspects will streamline your search.

Start Your Venue Search

With your event needs in mind, begin exploring potential venues. You can search online, ask for recommendations from colleagues, or use a specialised platform like EventButler . This Swiss-based service allows you to filter venues based on your criteria, view detailed descriptions and photos, and read reviews from other event organisers. It’s a great way to find suitable locations without the hassle.

Visit and Evaluate Venues

Once you have a list of potential venues, it’s time to visit them. During your visit, check the accessibility of the location – is it easy for attendees to reach? Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list and has a layout that fits your event’s activities. Pay attention to the ambiance; it should match the tone of your event. Also, verify the availability and quality of facilities and equipment, such as projectors and sound systems. Lastly, gauge the professionalism and responsiveness of the venue’s staff.

Review and Negotiate the Contract

When you’ve found the perfect venue, it’s time to look at the contract. Make sure all costs are transparent and understand the payment terms. Know the cancellation policy to avoid any surprises. Clarify what’s included in the rental fee and what might incur additional charges. If needed, check if event insurance is required and consider getting it for peace of mind.

Plan the Logistics

With the venue booked, focus on the event logistics. Coordinate setup and breakdown times with the venue to ensure a smooth process. Arrange for any additional technical equipment or support you might need. If the venue doesn’t provide catering, find a reliable caterer to handle food and drinks. Attention to these details will help your event run seamlessly.

Renting the right event location is crucial for the success of your business or corporate event. By defining your needs, researching thoroughly, and using resources like EventButler.ch, you can find a venue that not only meets your requirements but also enhances the overall experience for your attendees. The right venue can make your event memorable and successful, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved.

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Influence your Business Future - 26 June 2024

Keynote Speaker Gary Edwards

Date and time

Conference Centre, Innovation House

About this event

Influence your business future, 26 june 24 - 5.30pm for 6.00pm start..

Join us at the next Polaris networking event there will be food, drinks and plenty of networking with like-minded people.

Reflect back on your achievements for the 2023-2024 financial year and get ready to take on the 2024-2025 financial year.

Gary will speak about “The Best Way to Predict the Future is to Create It”.

Gary is a communication coach, leadership mentor and keynote speaker. He works with individuals and organisations who want to realise the potential of the situation that they find themselves in.

Gary will help us all to:

• Reflect back on the successes you’ve had in the past year
• Think positively about the challenges that exist in our current environment
• See the opportunities within those challenges
• Develop the mindset and tools to be able to take advantage of those opportunities
• Set a goal for success in the coming year

As a former lawyer, negotiation expert – and professional magician! – Gary understands how the way we think and make decisions – and then carry them out – influences the outcomes we achieve and will provide you with the mindset and tools you need to set yourself up for an exciting and productive new business year.

BREAKING NEWS:

A special announcement will be made about exciting Polaris services and programs starting in July 2024!

Book yourself a ticket TODAY!

The Polaris Centre is a proud delivery partner of The Small Business Fundamentals Program, an initiative of the Government of South Australia’s Office for Small and Family Business, delivered through the South Australian Small Business Strategy 2023 – 2030.

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General election latest: Starmer takes pop at Johnson hiding in fridge as he refuses to comment on Abbott row

At the launch of Labour's "battle bus", Sir Keir Starmer said a vote for his party was a vote for "change and hope". The Tories are also launching their campaign bus - as a new poll suggests they could be left with only 66 in the election next month.

Saturday 1 June 2024 12:03, UK

• General Election 2024

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Election news

• Starmer launches 'battle bus' - and makes Johnson fridge gag
• Sunak pledges £20m to 30 towns across UK
• New poll suggests Tories will lose all but 66 seats
• Watch: Teen asks Sunak 'why do you hate young people?'
• Be in the audience for our election leaders event
• Live reporting by Faith Ridler

Expert analysis

• Beth Rigby: Starmer made an unforced error
• Paul Kelso: How do Labour and Tory energy pledges measure up?  

Election essentials

• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage: Memorable moments from elections gone by
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
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Next, Rishi Sunak is asked about a new poll which suggests Labour could have a 303-seat majority after the July general election.

He says the only poll that matters is "the one on 4 July - the general election".

"We're just over a week into this and what is clear is that we're the only ones that have a plan that is working when it comes to the economy," Mr Sunak adds.

"We're the only ones who are putting ideas on the table."

The prime minister reiterates that the Conservatives can deliver a better future - in "direct contrast" with the Labour Party.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has urged Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposal put forward by US President Joe Biden.

He said: "It's very welcome news and I hope Hamas take this opportunity to take this deal that is on the table, that would ensure hostages can be released and be back with their families.

"That we can flood Gaza with far more aid than has been getting in.

"And then use that pause in the fighting to build a sustainable and lasting peace."

You can read more about the situation in the Middle East in our blog here:

If this is the first TikTok election, you might be surprised at who's winning.

On the youngest, buzziest social media platform, Reform UK - whose vote tends somewhat towards the elderly - has the most followers, 125,500, just ahead of Labour on 108,500.

But others are catching up fast - and how they're using it reveals a lot about a key digital battleground in this election, one of the few arenas where money doesn't buy you influence.

Because this is new territory. "It's worth noting that the three major parties are really new to the game," says Kate Dommett, professor of digital politics at the University of Sheffield.

No major party had much of a TikTok presence before the election was called. Now they're racing to build them on the fly.

Read more from our online campaign correspondent Tom Cheshire :

Rishi Sunak is in the North East of England, where he is launching the Conservative Party campaign bus - just hours after the Labour Party did the same.

He says it is "only the Conservatives" that deliver "economic stability", pointing to lower inflation and a bounce back from COVID.

"The choice is who do you trust to turn that foundation into a secure future," Mr Sunak says, adding the "only certainly" with Labour is they will "run out of money".

He says this is as clear as "night follows day".

The prime minister says the Tories are the party taking "bold action" on the likes of immigration, with the Rwanda plan.

"In every way Labour would make our country less safe, and less secure," he says.

Continuing his attacks on Labour, he says it is "clear" Angela Rayner is the true leader of the party.

He then turns back to what his party offers, saying that "uncertain times call for bold action". 

Mr Sunak says he wants to build "a Britain where your hard work, everyone's hard work is rewarded, where the opportunities that were there for the previous generation are there for the next". 

Former Tory MP Julian Knight has announced he will stand as an independent in the general election.

The MP for Solihull was suspended from the Conservative parliamentary party in December 2022 after it emerged he was being investigated by police over a claim of serious sexual assault.

Mr Knight has always maintained his innocence and on 2 April 2023, the Metropolitan Police dropped the investigation without questioning him.

But he remained suspended from the Tory parliamentary party as the chief whip, who organises the MPs, said "further complaints" had been made against him - allegations he rejects.

You can read more from Sky News below:

On 12 June, Sky News will host an election leaders' event in Grimsby - a key marginal seat and one of our Target Towns this election year.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and the Conservative leader Rishi Sunak have been invited to attend, and we are looking for a live audience to join us on the night.

If you would like to be part of this studio audience, and be given the opportunity to ask a question to one of the party leaders, please complete the short questionnaire in this link .

You may have been wondering where the Liberal Democrat leader is today, as the Conservatives and Labour launch their "battle buses" in quick succession.

He's just confirmed exactly what he's up to: "Being a dad."

The British ambassador to Mexico has been removed from the post after a video emerged online of him apparently pointing an assault rifle at an embassy employee.

The video, shared on X, shows Jon Benjamin pointing the firearm at a person whose face has been blurred out.

"In a context of daily killings in Mexico by drug dealers, he dares to joke," reads a post accompanying the clip.

On Friday, the Financial Times reported the ambassador had been removed from his post after the incident, which reportedly happened during an official trip to the states of Durango and Sinaloa in April.

Both states have a high presence of drug cartels.

Labour's Angela Rayner speaks to our political editor  Beth Rigby  in an extended interview for the Daily podcast. 

The party’s deputy leader says that she believes Diane Abbott should be able to stand as an MP - and she denied leader Sir Keir Starmer was acting "in a factional way".

On the first official day of campaigning, she also spoke about the investigations into her living arrangements - and revealed the details of her campaign battle bus.

We've just been hearing from Sir Keir Starmer, who stopped to speak to reporters at the Labour Party "battle bus" launch in Uxbridge.

He was asked about the row around Diane Abbott, and his decision to confirm she is not barred from standing for the party - after first saying he wouldn't give a view.

"I dealt with that issue yesterday," Sir Keir says, before changing the subject.

"Today is about taking our argument to the country and getting people back to work.

"There are millions of people who aren't in work, who are on benefits, who desperately want the dignity and respect of being back to work."

Pressed again on the situation around Ms Abbott, Sir Keir says: "I dealt with this yesterday."

He was then asked more widely about an unease from black voters to back Labour after the Diane Abbott row.

He dodges the question, pointing again to change.

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