All Posts Tagged ‘wedding venues’

Big companies and small companies have both their advantages and disadvantages, and I have been fortunate to gain experience and obtain valuable tools from both along the way. So when I was posed with the question, “what do you think is the difference between working for a small company versus a big company?” It really got me thinking, “what are the differences?”

While large companies can have more resources, it can be more challenging to get things accomplished with the levels of management between you and the CEO. While smaller companies can provide a more family like environment and direct contact to the top, budgetary restrictions can at times be a challenge.  Although, there is one resource they have in common regardless of size…their people.

When it comes to big companies versus small, I’m not suggesting one is better than the other, as many large companies successfully held onto this recipe for success.  When you read Fortune magazine’s annual issue of the top 100 companies to work for, it probably won’t surprise you that this is not a deep seeded secret that their employees simply like what they do and want to go to work every day for a very good reason.

When I worked for a luxury hotelier I was always inspired by how the company was built from a passionate desire to provide their guests and employees the best experience possible even when it was no more than a roadside motel.  I have also had the opportunity to work for a celebrity chef, whose attention to detail, customer service and his staff was personal and non-negotiable.  All of these talented men and women had one thing in common; their employees and customers came first and were their most valuable resources, and they made it well known.

Simply put, this translates to a more positive experience for the client, who find they are working with people who are passionate about what they do, genuinely care and are detail oriented, thus providing the best possible experience.  Whether it is a dinner for 50 or a reception for 400.

Having had a chance to work a few events and visit with current and prospective clients here at FantaSea, there is something to be said for a small, family owned company.  As a company policy, “We Care!” You are not just a number here, each client is treated as a guest and each party is just as important as the next.  It’s the personal attention that we give to each and every person here that sets us apart and makes this company the best choice for any event.

I have been in the party business for a long time and am fortunate to work in one of the most beautiful venues in Los Angeles, but it takes more than a great view to be successful in this business, clients demand value. Price is the most important factor in party planning and today those of us in the event business are working harder than ever to provide value for our guests.

At my company, I work with people from all walks of life and rich or not, they all have a budget. Fortunately, I have learned a lot over the years and I consider myself an expert at creating something special for all of my clients… it really comes down to listening, being resourceful and exceeding expectations.

Here are some tips for planning your next event – beautifully and affordably:

1. Get referrals. Ask friends and family about venue and vendor recommendations. Chances are someone you know has a great lead for you. Next, check them all out (online and in person) and don’t be shy about asking for client recommendations. And please don’t judge a venue by the outside of the building. You never know when you will come across a hidden gem. The majority of our business is word-of-mouth which is great because our new clients already have a sense of trust when they first walk in the door.
2. Share your vision. Be very vocal about what you want and how it looks in your mind. Choose a planner who understands your vision and never stops communicating. A real pro (like me ) will not only “get” your vision, she will take it to new levels!
3. Shop and compare. Did you know that an event on our luxury yachts is comparable in price to a hotel ballroom? Don’t dismiss any idea because you assume it will cost more money.
4. Be open to change. Things happen, so be open to compromise. If you’re in good hands and have communicated well with your planner, she will always have great ideas when it’s time to make adjustments.
5. Work with experienced professionals! I can’t stress this enough. I have nearly 30 years of resources at my fingertips, which allows me to provide value and expertise to all my clients. If your party is in the hands of experts, you can be sure that every detail will be tended too from start to finish. You should always be able to expect this level of service from your event team.
6. Think about your guests. What will their experience be like? Do you have a variety of menu items for all tastes? Will they be comfortable? What will they remember about your event? Again, your professional event planner can provide tons of ideas to “wow” your guests based on years of experience.

Value can be demonstrated in many ways, from cost and level of service to uniqueness and overall experience. No matter what your budget, there are ways to skimp here, save their and make it look like you spent twice the price. My job has always been to make you look great and feel even better throughout the process!

So, now that you are armed with all of this knowledge, aren’t you ready to plan your next event with FantaSea?