Often referred to as the “Cultural Capital of Australia”, Melbourne has taken its place as one of the premier destinations for events of all kinds. The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) reports a staggering 74% increase in economic contribution from events during the 2022-23 financial year, making it a city with a bustling event scene.
Whether you’re an event organiser or someone just looking for a space to host a business event or private party, the choice of venue can have a lasting impact on the success of your function.
But how can you choose the right venue from the many event locations in Melbourne? Let’s take a look.
What to look for in Melbourne locations for specific events
When you’re searching for the perfect venue, there are several key elements that you should consider.
Accessibility and convenience
It’s important to pick a location your guests won’t find tedious to navigate. Whether it’s hidden deep within the city or is led by a road that isn’t easy to navigate, you need to carefully consider how accessible the venue will be to your guests who may be arriving in different modes of transportation. You should also look for venues close to public transport and major roads for easy access.
Parking is another important factor. Ample parking should be a must so guests aren’t left stressed looking for available spaces even before they get to enjoy your event. You should also consider guests with disabilities, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.
Venue amenities
The top event locations in Melbourne generally offer a full suite of amenities and services. If you’re hosting a business event and presentations are a part of the agenda, then check the availability of high-quality audio-visual equipment or any other requirements you may have.
Catering is another important facility and most venues will either offer in-house catering options or have partnerships with vendors who they can secure for your event.
If you’re hosting a multi-day event like a wedding, you should also check if on-site accommodation is provided so that you can accommodate guests who are arriving from faraway locations.
Ambiance and suitability
Having a host of facilities is great, but the aesthetic appeal also needs to be considered to set the tone for your event. Pick a location that perfectly captures the essence of your event, its theme, and style, whether you’re hosting an elegant event or a corporate seminar.
Confirm if the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected number of guests while offering better flexibility for different event segments from team-building exercises to a dance floor.
How to pick the right location
Picking the right location is often the first step when it comes to event planning. Let’s take a look at why it’s so important to make the right choice.
Guest experience and comfort
Your venue choice has a direct impact on how your guests experience the event. Everything from ambiance and comfort to top-tier facilities is important to bring the event to life and create a truly memorable experience.
As mentioned above, having easy access to the venue is also an important factor because that will be their first indication about the quality of your event and what they can expect. They will also be more likely to walk into the event in a more positive mood and engage with the other guests.
Event flow and logistics
One of the biggest mistakes that events can make is not paying attention to the flow of activities, an important element that can affect the tone of the event. Adequate space for segments like main halls, registration areas, breakout rooms, dance floors, and even open spaces for group activities need seamless transitions that can prevent bottlenecks that delay the entire agenda.
Pay attention to amenities that guests always look for like reliable Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, and even state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, which can contribute to the uninterrupted progression of your event, allowing you to focus on the event itself rather than be preoccupied with troubleshooting.
Brand image and perception
For corporate events, your venue choice speaks volumes about your brand and the event you’re hosting. High-profile events like product launches can be further elevated by unique event locations in Melbourne, leaving a lasting impression on the attendees.
The same can be said for private events like birthday parties, milestone celebrations, or wedding ceremonies and receptions where the venue can truly bring out the essence of your event, creating a cohesive experience that will resonate with your audience.
Cost-effectiveness and value
You may be tempted to cut corners when it comes to selecting the right venues, but choosing the right location actually lends itself to better financial outcomes. All-inclusive venues provide a host of facilities and amenities, making it much more affordable than renting out equipment, food and beverage, and a host of other logistical elements that make up an event.
It’s more than just a stunning space
Whether you’re planning on having a corporate conference attended by VIPs in the industry or an elegant wedding with close friends and family, Melbourne has many diverse venues to suit every occasion. From a sleek hotel to a stunning Melbourne castle, the perfect location is out there waiting to bring your unique vision to life.
Remember that the right venue isn’t just made for hosting your event, it is an important part of the experience. So don’t rush to make a decision. Take your time, explore your options, ask the right questions, and select a venue that will make your Melbourne event truly unforgettable.
FAQs
How far in advance should I book venues in Melbourne?
Book your venue as early as possible, especially for popular locations or during peak seasons. For large events, aim to secure your venue 6-12 months in advance. Smaller events may allow for shorter lead times, but 3-6 months is generally a safe bet to ensure you get your preferred date and location.
What should I ask when touring potential venues in Melbourne?
Key questions to ask include: What’s included in the venue hire fee? Are there any restrictions on decorations or outside vendors? What’s the cancellation policy? Can they provide a list of preferred suppliers? Don’t forget to inquire about any recent renovations or planned works that might affect your event.
How can I make sure the venue size is right for my event?
Consider the total capacity and how the space will be used. Factor in space for seating, dance floors, stages, or exhibition areas. Many venues can provide floor plans to help you visualise the layout. It’s often better to choose a slightly larger space that feels comfortably full rather than cramming guests into a too-small venue.