Planning a successful event, whether it’s a bustling trade show, a thought-provoking conference, or a product launch extravaganza, hinges on a crucial decision: selecting the right convention center.
This venue serves as the foundation upon which your event thrives, creating the atmosphere, facilitating logistics, and ultimately influencing attendee satisfaction. However, with a multitude of convention centers available, navigating the selection process can feel overwhelming.
This comprehensive guide will help you to sift through the options and identify the perfect convention center for your event. We’ll delve into the key considerations, from capacity and amenities to location and cost, ensuring you make an informed decision that sets your event up for success.
Cruising Through the Key Factors: Selecting the Ideal Convention Center
Choosing the ideal convention center requires a multi-faceted approach. Here’s a breakdown of the essential factors to consider throughout your selection journey:
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Capacity:
- Attendee Numbers: This is the starting point. Accurately estimating the number of attendees you anticipate is crucial. Cramming too many people into a small space creates discomfort and hinders networking opportunities. Conversely, a vast, empty hall in a venue too large can appear sterile and dampen enthusiasm.
- Exhibitors (Optional): If your event includes a trade show component with vendors showcasing products or services, factor in booth space requirements. Consider the number of exhibitors and the desired size of their booths.
- Breakout Sessions: Many events incorporate breakout sessions for smaller group discussions and workshops. Ensure the convention center provides sufficient breakout rooms with appropriate seating capacity for these sessions.
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Amenities:
- On-site Catering: Reliable on-site catering services are essential for providing refreshments and meals throughout the event. Prioritize a venue with either in-house catering or established partnerships with reputable providers offering diverse options to cater to various dietary needs and preferences.
- Audio/Visual Equipment: Seamless audio/visual capabilities are instrumental for presentations, keynote speeches, and creating an engaging atmosphere. Does the convention center offer a comprehensive selection of audio/visual equipment rentals, or will you need to source them externally?
- Internet Connectivity: In today’s tech-driven world, strong and reliable Wi-Fi throughout the convention center is a must-have. This facilitates communication between attendees, allows for live streaming of presentations, and enables online event elements if applicable.
- Technical Support: The unexpected can happen. Opt for a convention center with experienced technical support staff readily available to troubleshoot any equipment malfunctions or address technical difficulties during your event.
- Business Center: A business center within the convention center provides a convenient location for attendees to access computers, printing services, and other administrative necessities.
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Location:
- Accessibility: Prioritize a location readily accessible to attendees, speakers, and vendors. Proximity to major highways, airports, and public transportation options is a significant advantage, minimizing travel time and maximizing convenience for attendees.
- Target Audience: Consider the demographics of your attendees. If your event targets a local audience, a centrally located convention center might be ideal. For events attracting a national or international audience, a venue near the airport or offering easy access to hotels becomes more crucial.
- Parking Availability: Ample and accessible parking is essential for attendees and vendors. The chosen convention center should either offer sufficient on-site parking facilities or provide access to nearby parking options.
- Area Amenities: Consider the surrounding area when making your decision. Proximity to hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options can enhance the overall attendee experience. For out-of-town attendees, a vibrant and interesting surroundings might be a factor in choosing your event.
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Cost:
- Rental Fees: Obtain a comprehensive breakdown of rental fees associated with the convention center space. Be sure to factor in additional costs like furniture rentals, security, janitorial services, and potential overtime charges.
- Catering Services: Inquire about catering packages and pricing options offered by the venue or its preferred vendors to find a solution that aligns with your budget.
- Audio/Visual Equipment Rentals: If external audio/visual equipment rentals are necessary, factor in their cost when comparing different convention centers.
Additional Considerations:
Beyond the core factors, additional considerations can influence your final decision:
- ADA Compliance: Ensure the convention center is fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations to provide equal access for all attendees.
- Security Measures: The venue should have adequate security measures in place to safeguard attendees, exhibitors, and their belongings.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Convention centers with a commitment to environmental responsibility through green initiatives might be a more conscious choice for event organizers.
Learn why the Utah Valley Convention Center is the perfect choice for your next event. Contact us today to book your event!Request an Event Estimate
Utah Valley Convention Center: Your Premier Event Destination
When it comes to selecting the perfect convention center in Utah Valley, the Utah Valley Convention Center (UVCC) stands out as a premier choice. This state-of-the-art facility offers a comprehensive range of features and services that cater to a diverse array of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale conferences and trade shows.
Key Features and Benefits of UVCC:
- Versatile Event Space: UVCC boasts over 83,578 square feet of flexible event space, accommodating events of various sizes and configurations.
- Prime Location: Situated in the heart of Utah Valley, UVCC offers easy accessibility for attendees and exhibitors, with convenient access to major highways and transportation hubs.
- Exceptional Amenities: The center provides a wide range of amenities, including state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment, high-speed internet, on-site catering, and business center services.
- Dedicated Event Planning Team: UVCC’s experienced event planning team is committed to providing personalized service and ensuring a seamless event experience.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The center embraces sustainable practices, minimizing its environmental impact and offering eco-conscious event solutions.
By choosing UVCC, you’re selecting a venue that combines functionality, aesthetics, and exceptional service to elevate your event to new heights.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect convention center for your event is a critical decision that can significantly impact the overall success of your gathering. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can identify a venue that aligns with your specific needs and budget.
The Utah Valley Convention Center (UVCC) stands out as an exceptional choice, offering a combination of spacious facilities, a prime location, exceptional service, and a commitment to sustainability. By choosing UVCC, you can create a memorable and impactful event that will leave a lasting impression on your attendees.
Ready to host your next event at Utah Valley Convention Center? Contact us today to schedule a tour, discuss your event requirements, and experience firsthand how UVCC can elevate your event to new heights. Fill out our convenient online form to receive a quote for your event or call (801) 851-2200 to start planning your unforgettable event.