The easiest way to plan a corporate event is to -

• pick a great event venue (like fifty-two-twenty-six)
• select an event date
• call a turnkey caterer to handle all of the details
• then, sit back, relax and write a check…

…unfortunately, these days we are all watching our budgets, so we have to do a little more work…

A Simple and Stress-Free Event
The whole event planning process may seem a little daunting at first, especially if you have never done it before. Who wants to to run around town interviewing potential vendors for weeks. Fifty-two-twenty-six staff can simplify the planning for you. We have a list of preferred vendors with whom we have worked for years. Each is the best at what they do. They are creative, reliable and perhaps most important of all – they will save you time and money – so you can relax and enjoy a stress-free event.

Reception Halls in Houston
The first item on the list for planning a successful corporate event is selecting an event site. There are a number of reception halls in Houston, but most are fairly boring. So, when you are looking for banquet halls in Houston, start at fifty-two-twenty-six. We are the only contemporary event venue in Houston. After you settle on a location, then select a date. It is helpful if you have a couple of alternative dates in mind just in case your preferred date is already booked. Now, it is time to set your budget and get to work on the details.

Food and Beverages
Food and beverages will be a large part of the budget, so next on the list is to determine your guest count and call the caterer. Selecting the right caterer is critical to the success of your event. There are a large number of caterers in Houston. Some are great (some not so great!). Call us – we will point you in the right direction. It is always helpful to have a general idea of what you want before contacting a caterer. Passed hors d’oeuvre, cocktail buffet, buffet dinner or seated served dinner? Beef, seafood or chicken? Beer and wine or open bar? Ask your caterer to make suggestions if you are not sure.

Party Rentals
Rentals are another big part of the budget. Do you need tables, chairs and linens? Lighting and décor? It is more cost effective to book these items directly instead going through the caterer because they will usually take a markup to make money for “handling”. Coordinate delivery with the caterer so there is ample time to set up prior to the event starting. Have the caterer handle china, glassware, flatware and other serving items.

Entertainment
Entertainment is best booked through an agency. They can provide a wide selection of musicians and DJ’s that are able to play any genre of music to compliment your event. Booking through an agency insures that the musicians show up, are on time and dressed appropriately.

Flowers and Table Décor
Flower arrangements make beautiful table décor and change the look and feel of the entire room. Be sure and call a reputable florist or someone you have previously done business with in the past. Use of seasonal flowers will give you the most for your money. Have the florist coordinate the flower colors with your linens to obtain the best effect. Set up delivery a few hours before guests start arriving so in the event that they are running late it will not compromise the event and cause you stress.

Valet and Security
Valet and security are a must at most event venues. Check with the venue to see what they require and provide. It is important to hire reputable valet company. They will be responsible for the safety of your guests’ cars. The worst thing that could happen would be for a guest to get ticketed or towed because an inexperienced or under staffed valet company does not do the job you are paying them for. Remember to always ask for a copy of their insurance. Security can be booked through your local police department, but it is a good idea to see if the venue has a police contact who has worked past events and who is familiar with the venue.

Gifts
Take away gifts are not required for most events, but if you want to send your guests home with a thoughtful reminder of the evening, I recommend giving high quality chocolates or baked goods that are beautifully packaged. Who needs one more trinket in their house collecting dust?