The Evolution of Corporate Events at Crieff Hydro
Corporate events have undergone significant transformation over the years, and, as one of the ‘go to’ destinations for meetings, events, exhibitions, teambuilding and awards for clients across all business sectors, Crieff Hydro has been at the forefront of this evolution.
Initially known for traditional conferences and meetings, we have continuously adapted to changing market trends and what’s next on the horizon whilst drilling down on the data and customer feedback to refine our approach. In today’s world where events look quite different to what they did five years ago (which they should of course…), we offer extraordinary event experiences in an unparalleled choice of versatile spaces with cutting-edge technology and unique, innovative and creative touches that enable us to stand out from the competition.
Our journey began with a focus on creating functional and professional environments. However, as the needs and expectations of our clients evolved, so did our offering. The great outdoors became as important a part as what happens indoors, and with our 900-acre playground on our doorstep, we quickly became a market leader in the M.I.C.E. world.
Nowadays, we create uniquely immersive experiences that not only meet but exceed the expectations of all of our corporate clients, and of course, their delegates; an evolution which has been very much driven by our commitment to listen to and understand the needs of our clients, find new and better ways of doing things, adapting to the ever-changing landscape of corporate events and with a ready-made supply of creative passion coming from our team
Behind the Scenes of an Extraordinary Event
Planning and executing a flawless corporate event involves meticulous attention to detail and a dedicated team of professionals. At Crieff Hydro, our experienced event planning team is headed up by Denise Grant and Kirsty Douglas, who play a pivotal role in ensuring every event is a resounding success.
From selecting the perfect venue space to arranging state-of-the-art amenities, our team brings a wealth of expertise and passion to every event.
Denise shares, "One of the real joys of my job is in working with the client to find the perfect venue within Crieff Hydro for their event and working with them to tailor this to their needs and wishes. It never fails to amaze me how a space can be so completely transformed to become the client’s ‘own’ corporate space, with their look, feel, energy and buzz with forward thinking, creativity and great synergy between the Crieff Hydro event team and the client.”
She added, “Our spaces range from the expansive Melville Hall which will host conferences of up to 650 attendees and dinners for 450 to our Earn and Barvick rooms which have a more quirky, state of the art feel – perfect for unlocking creativity and energy. The flexibility we have in offering clients such a unique and wide range of venue spaces means that anything is possible when it comes to organising and hosting extraordinary events.”
Kirsty shares, "It's the personal touches that set us apart at Crieff Hydro and that willingness to go the extra mile to bring in new ideas and look for innovative solutions, particularly in today’s budget conscious climate. We also go above and beyond to ensure every detail is meticulously planned – this really is where the magic lies in delivering extraordinary events.”
Top Trends Shaping the Future of Corporate Events
The corporate event industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the latest trends is crucial. At Crieff Hydro, we are at the forefront of innovation, continually integrating new ideas and technologies to enhance our offerings.
Sustainability
This has become a key focus for corporate events. Our commitment to eco-friendly practices includes waste reduction initiatives, energy-efficient technologies and sustainable sourcing. By prioritising sustainability, we not only reduce our environmental impact but also align with the values of our clients and indeed attract many new clients thanks to our award-winning green credentials. Additionally, we prioritise suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability. Sustainable events are no longer a ‘nice to do’. They are essential.
Technology Integration
Technology plays a pivotal role in modern corporate events. We work with clients to incorporate the latest advancements such as virtual reality experiences, interactive displays, and seamless connectivity to create engaging and immersive events. Interactivity is key to delivering a successful event and creating a memorable experience for delegates.
Personalised Experiences
Personalisation is a growing trend in the corporate event industry. We know that one package does not fit all, and we understand that each client has unique needs and preferences. So, we tailor our offerings accordingly and work around ‘types’ of packages for our clients, from customisable event packages to bespoke experiences, always ensuring that every event reflects the client's vision and objectives.
Maximising Attendee Engagement in Corporate Events
Events are often only as good as delegates say they are – you’ll know if you’ve sent that ‘How was it for you?’ email to attendees after your event and wait for the feedback to start flowing in to your in box. The next event you host is usually partly shaped by the previous one.
Engagement is key to the success of any corporate event, whether it’s a conference, training event or brainstorm. Crieff Hydro works with clients to deliver a variety of strategies to boost attendee engagement, ensuring a dynamic, interactive and memorable experience for all.
Interactive Sessions
Interactive sessions, such as workshops and breakout groups encourage active participation and knowledge sharing. These sessions foster collaboration and ensure that attendees leave with valuable insights and connections. A series of short sessions tend to produce really effective, creative bursts of activity with momentum that is carried forward into the next session.
Technology Use
Leveraging technology, such as live polling and augmented reality enhances engagement and keeps attendees involved and stimulated throughout the event, particularly when it comes to the afternoon when energy can slump a little. These tools provide real-time feedback and create a more immersive experience which is unique to that event; a moment that people remember because it is just that, ‘in the moment’.
Networking Opportunities
Crieff Hydro works with our clients to design events that facilitate meaningful networking opportunities. From informal meet-and-greet sessions to structured networking activities, we ensure that attendees have ample opportunities to connect and build valuable relationships (and lots of talking points!)
Health and Wellness in the Event Space
Incorporating health and wellness elements into corporate events is essential for boosting mental health and the overall attendee experience and outcomes. Events can feel intense, full on, tiring and over stimulating so at Crieff Hydro, we give our corporate clients a number of options to look after the well-being of their delegates.
Healthy Catering Options
Our chefs are incredible at coming up with new, innovative ideas on the traditional ‘corporate catering’. We don’t just do food, we do feel good food! We work with clients to create invigorating, exciting menus to banish the afternoon slump and keep carb comas at bay.
Fruit infused water stations
For a little bit of a zesty uplift after a long session.
Fresh Air Fix
Being right in the heart of Perthshire beautiful countryside, Crieff Hydro is perfectly placed fresh air fixes between event sessions or a leisurely stroll around the estate after wrap up.
High energy activities
Yes, we know they can feel a bit awkward to begin with but those little bursts of high energy activities after a conference break or lunch is a sure-fire winner to getting everyone engaged for a great afternoon session. Even a five-minute burst of movement and stretching works wonders.
Breakout rooms
Crieff Hydro has an abundance of spaces for chats, catching up on emails, a bit of peace and quiet, phone calls or somewhere to digest and reflect. Events can be long and tiring and switching rooms is a must, otherwise your delegates will start to feel lethargic and uninterested. Having a variety of spaces is one of our real plus points when it comes to events.
Why choose Crieff for your next event?
Crieff Hydro works with clients in all sizes of businesses across all sectors to host and deliver extraordinary events that set the standard in the M.I.C.E industry.
Our dedication and passion to innovation, sustainability and in creating personalised experiences has positioned us as the foremost venue in Scotland for meetings, events and celebrations, underpinned by many decades of experience.
Whether you're planning a corporate conference, a team-building retreat, an exclusive VIP event, or a celebration, Crieff Hydro offers the expertise, versatile venues, resources, space and creativity to ensure your event is a resounding success.
Contact our Events Team today and let’s chat about how we begin to bring your vision to life.
We look forward to creating extraordinary events together!
