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Wednesday 23 April 2025

Summer's just around the corner, and you know what that means - it's time to start planning that all-important corporate summer party! Here is VSL's 101 guide on how to get the planning started today ...

Whether you're looking to reward your hardworking team or impress your top clients, a well-executed summer bash can work wonders for morale and business relationships alike.

Now, I know what you're thinking - Where do I even start? Don't worry, we've got you covered. After years of helping London's top companies throw unforgettable summer events, we've learned a thing or two about what makes a party truly special. So, grab a cold drink (maybe an Aperol Spritz?), and let's dive into our foolproof guide to summer party success.

First Things First: Know Your Crowd

Before you get carried away dreaming of rooftop cocktails and gourmet food trucks, take a moment to think about your guests. What would really make their day?

For teams with young families, an afternoon garden party might go down better than a late-night rave. Creative agencies might love something edgy in Shoreditch, while more traditional firms might prefer the elegance of a Mayfair private members' club. And let's not forget - the best summer parties are the ones people actually want to attend, so make sure you're choosing a date that works for your crowd.

Location, Location, Location (But Make It Fun!)

Ah, the eternal London dilemma - do you go for that gorgeous riverside terrace knowing half your guests will moan about the trek from the office? Or play it safe with somewhere central but potentially less exciting?

Here's our hot take: London's transport links are actually pretty great these days, so don't be afraid to venture slightly further afield if it means securing an amazing venue. That said, if you're planning a midweek event, sticking near your office or major transport hubs is probably wise.

Pro tip: Look for venues that offer both indoor and outdoor spaces. That way, if the Great British Summer decides to do its usual trick of delivering four seasons in one day, you're covered.

Getting Down to Business: Budgets and Numbers

Okay, let's talk money (don't worry, we'll keep it painless). The golden rule? Know your numbers before you start venue hunting.

How many people are you expecting? What's your total budget? And crucially - what are your must-haves versus nice-to-haves? Maybe that live band is non-negotiable, but you could compromise on the champagne fountain.

Remember to factor in all those sneaky extras that can catch you out - things like AV equipment, security, or even just making sure there's enough staff to keep those drinks flowing. Oh, and book early! The best summer spots get snapped up faster than the last ice lolly at a garden party.

Food and Drink: The Heart of Any Good Party

Let's be honest - people will forgive a lot if the food and drink are on point. The good news? Summer parties give you so much more flexibility than traditional Christmas dinners.

Why not ditch the formal sit-down meal and go for something more interactive? A gourmet BBQ station, wood-fired pizzas made to order, or even a selection of London's best food trucks can create a much more relaxed, festive atmosphere.

On the drinks front, signature cocktails always go down a treat but don't forget to include some creative non-alcoholic options too. Fancy mocktails, artisan lemonades, or even a DIY Pimm's station can keep everyone happy.

Entertainment Beyond the Boring Speeches

Here's where you can really make your party stand out. Nobody wants to sit through lengthy speeches when they could be enjoying the summer sun, so think outside the box.

Live music is always a winner - maybe a jazz trio for something classy or a full-on band to get people dancing. Interactive experiences like cocktail masterclasses or silent discos can break the ice and get even the most reserved guests mingling.

And let's not forget those all-important photo ops! A well-designed photo booth (maybe with some fun summer props) will give your guests lasting memories and provide great content for your company's social media.

The Great British Weather Gamble

We couldn't talk about summer parties without addressing the elephant in the room… our famously unreliable weather. The key? Hope for sunshine, but plan for rain.

Look for venues with flexible spaces, maybe a beautiful garden with an equally lovely indoor backup. Marquees with sides that can be rolled up or down are ideal, and outdoor heaters can be a lifesaver when the evening chill sets in.

Why Go It Alone? Let the Experts Help!

Here's the thing, planning an amazing summer party takes time, knowledge, and a fair bit of stress. That's where we come in.

At Venue Search London, we live and breathe London events. We know which venues have that magic combination of great spaces, delicious catering, and excellent service. Even better, our service is completely free to you - we work with venues to get you the best possible deal, taking all the legwork out of your hands.

From hidden gem gardens to showstopping rooftop terraces, we'll find you options you didn't even know existed. And because we've been doing this for years, we know all the little tricks to make your event run smoothly.

A great corporate summer party isn't just a nice-to-have - it's a powerful tool for team building, client relationships, and showing your people they're valued. With the right planning (and maybe a little expert help), you can create an event that people will be talking about long after summer fades into autumn.