We wanted to start this next statement with ‘picture the scene’ – but, the thing is, when it comes to awards dos, we bet you already can. You walk into a reception room where there’s arrival drinks. After some chatter and gathering around a table plan, you are allowed into a bigger space with banqueting style seating and find your seat. You’ve got half a bottle of wine each on the table and you’re served starters. Cue a comedian/celebrity figure to introduce the night and host the activities. Then it’s time for the first few award winners to be announced, main course is served, the rest of the awards are announced with the addition of dessert and teas and coffees. By this point, everybody is either very ready to go home or has been taking full advantage of the wine at the table, the celebrity/comedian host does a hilarious sign off and a band then comes in to close the night out with some dancing.  

Add in a photo booth, some sort of gif/360 camera and a videographer and photographer wondering around to capture the evening and, ta da, you have yourself the basic awards function. We’ve all been to them, most more than once, and they always seem to be the same.  

Here’s our question – why is that? Sure, there’s always the saying ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’, but are we really that out of ideas that we just want to repeat the same event each year?  

We get it, it’s sometimes scary to change the pattern and go against the crowd – so, let us help with thinking outside-the-box and share our top five ideas for making your awards do stand out from the crowd:  

1. Mix Up Your Venue  

Hotels are great, they have amazing function rooms, and they give people the choice of accommodation on site – however, they’re not the only option. There are other venues that stand alone with accommodation options, or venues that have nearby accommodation for people to taxi or even walk back to, should they want to stay.  

For example, why not explore going outdoors? What if you did a festival-style event with gorgeously lit tipis for a bar and activities with a Glastonbury style stage? 

Or, for the colder months, why not look at something like a museum? Could you use some of the exhibits to do a themed activity for guests and keep them engaged?  

Or even simply change up the décor and get something like indoor lit trees for a different atmosphere. The world really is your oyster, don’t be afraid to explore! 

2. Change Categories 

 ‘Best in Business’, ‘Biggest Sustainability Pledge’, etc. Yes, these are massively important to any industry, but what about the other areas that never get noticed? What about that one person who is always there to support everybody in the office and never gets thanked for it? Or the manager who really stepped up to make everybody feel included and valued in the team? Why don’t we give opportunity for the little things to be celebrated, as well as the wider company achievements?  

This would not only help more people be engaged with your event and feel appreciated, but it would mean more people actively wanting to attend! 

3. Reimagine Your Host  

You want people laughing, we get it – but why go with the usual suspects?  

Get creative, we dare you! Think outside the box. Why not choose a host who’s not only funny, but also inclusive and engaging? There are countless brilliant personalities out there who can bring inspiration, warmth, and originality to your event – not just comedy. Remember, inclusivity matters, so keep that front and centre when selecting your host. 

4. Make It Fun  

We all love a photo opportunity and we’re by no means suggesting you don’t have a photo booth and photographer/videographer to capture the event – but why not mix it up a little and include other activities too?  

A lot of these events focus on drinking, but what about those who aren’t taking part in that? Why not include other activities so they also feel welcome for the duration? Think of mixing up your event entertainment, everyone loves a nice surprise and there are endless options that can be provided. How about interactive entertainment, along with mini challenge that each team/table can take part in, with overall winners getting a prize? 

5. Don’t Be Afraid 

This really is the most important point we have to make. Don’t be afraid to make changes. Worst case scenario, you get more ideas for what to do or not do for your next function. Either way, you get people talking and give them something different to remember – and standing out can never be a bad thing! 

If you’re looking to host an awards function but don’t know where to start, give our team a call! 

You can reach us by phone: 0330 223 3176 or email: hello@sheeredge.co.uk

The post Awards with a Difference – making your awards function stand out  appeared first on Sheer Edge Events.

With a never-ending to-do list, wellness and self-care is often the last thing on our minds. You’ve most likely been hearing how important it is to keep the balance and are wondering how you’re meant to fit all the exercise and meditation sessions into an already busy schedule. The good news is you don’t need to! The small but intentional actions go a long way to help you feel grounded, focused and energised.  

So here are our top tips on realistic wellness for the non-stop events professional:  

1. Smartly Fuel Your Body 

When you’re on the go, it’s all too easy to skip meals or rely on those quick sugary snacks. There’s nothing wrong with snacking but try to vary this and keep protein-rich options on you, such as nuts, boiled eggs or protein bars.  

Also, don’t forget about fruit and vegetables! If you have time to prepare a lunch, why not also add in some fresh snacks such as apples, carrots, celery, cucumber sticks or bell peppers? If you pair this with dip options such as houmous or tzatziki, you’ve got a great and healthy snack that help you stay energised and avoid that mid-afternoon crash.  

It may seem obvious, but many also forget the importance of staying hydrated. Always keep a reusable water bottle on you and maybe even set reminders to refill this. You could also try adding some lemon slices of a sprig of mint to this for an extra boost of freshness.  

2. Breathe Between the Chaos 

Just one minute of intentional breathing can reset your nervous system. Why not try a breathing pattern of inhaling, holding and exhaling for 4 counts each? If you do this just a few times between meetings, site visits or even just while waiting in a queue, it can make all the difference.  

3. Keep On Moving  

You don’t have to fit in a full workout, micro-movements still count. Don’t forget to take a break away from your desk, even just to go up the stairs or do a few stretches while reviewing a run sheet. You could even take a call while on a walk.  

Movement is also great for anchoring yourself in the moment. Focus on your breathing exercises while stretching or notice your feet hitting the ground as you walk – all these small actions can help reconnect the body and re-set your focus.  

4. Get Quality Sleep (Not Just Quantity)  

Professionals in our sector are often working irregular hours, especially on event days. Sometimes it’s inevitable that you won’t get those full 8 hours of sleep, making it even more important to focus on the quality of the rest you do get. Here are some steps you could take if you struggle with sleep quality:  

• Try and avoid looking at any screens an hour before bed. 

• Keep the room you’re sleeping in a cool temperature and dark. 

• Use calming sounds or meditation apps to help you wind down after a busy day. 

5. Set Digital Boundaries  

It’s difficult to not be ‘always on’ when it comes to work – but that’s not something that’s viable for anybody in the long-term and it’s guaranteed to lead to burnout. Try to avoid sending emails after work hours, or during mealtimes. It’s good practice to set specific times to check your messages and it’s also OK to give yourself permission to unplug, even if it’s only for 20 minutes here and there.  

6. Give Yourself a Mind Reset  

When at your desk, backstage or even in the car, stop for just one minute, close your eyes, drop your shoulders and focus on one thing you’re grateful for. Believe it or not, this tiny practice can instantly shift your mindset and lower your stress levels.  

7. Strategically Say No 

You don’t have to be at every networking opportunity. Not every request is one that must be done. Not every task is one you must volunteer for. Don’t be afraid to say no and protect your time and energy. You’d do it for event VIPs, and who’s more important in your life than yourself?  

8. Build Your Wellness Toolkit  

Try downloading some of the wellness apps, such as Headspace, Calm or Insight Timer to help for quick meditation practices. For mindfulness on the go, audiobooks and podcasts are also a great option for learning about creativity, resilience or mindsets.  

9. Accept Help 

Whether it’s delegating some of your workload to a trusted team member, hiring temporary staff or leaning on friends for advice, don’t hold back from reaching out when you need a hand. Nobody has to do it all alone.  

10.  Celebrate Small Wins  

You’ve done it – you’ve successfully pulled off the event, you’ve smashed that campaign, and you’ve navigated the minefield that is stakeholder and client management. Acknowledge how awesome you are and celebrate it – there’s nothing wrong with being confident and self-motivation!  

Wellness isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. When you make time for your own health, energy and mindset, you don’t just survive through your career, you thrive.  

Remember – you are the magic behind these moments. Take care of the person behind the plan, and the plan will take care of itself.   

 It’s also very important to remember that its ok to reach out and ask for support. It’s something we encourage!

Get in touch with us today if you think we could help to support you and your team further: hello@sheeredge.co.uk or call us: 0330 223 3176 

The post Staying Well While Keeping Busy appeared first on Sheer Edge Events.