Tips for Hosting a Successful Awards Banquet

Company events can actually be fun. Really. But planning them can be a nightmare. The easiest way is to look at a formula that works.

Who has the magic recipe? Why MTV of course! The VMAs are fun, they are a visual spectacle. What most planners may not realize is that even though it's a star-studded spectacular that takes place at some of the hottest U.S. spots, the VMAs do not have a huge budget. Just look at the six things that MTV does well and copy, copy, copy.

Step 1: Get a Host

Most awards events do not have a host. When they do, it is usually Sally from human resources or the association's executive director. I hate to tell you this, but they are a really bad choice.

You can ratchet things up a notch by actually hiring some talent. Think Robert Berry — someone who will sit down with you to tailor his act to your industry or group. Robert is funny, quick on his feet, and good with one-liners. He leaves the audience rolling with laughter.

Step 2: Get Better Booze

OK, OK… I know this is not 1973, and I am not advocating getting your attendees all liquored up. What I am talking about is the perception that your awards event is actually something important.

Think about it: your awards show may become the highlight of someone's career. This may be their one shot at greatness — and you, in an effort to save a couple hundred dollars, are cutting corners by serving draft beer and box wine? Shame on you!

Even if you are tight on budget, spring for Heinekens and a decent wine. Wanna go all in? Pop for a vodka luge or a full bar with top-shelf libations.

Bonus tip: When serving soda, serve it ice-cold in the glass bottle. Your event will look like a commercial.

Step 3: Amp Up the Music

Seriously — where did you get the soundtrack for your event? No one really likes the music you've been piping in. Go current, go eclectic, go mainstream.

You only need three elements for music at an awards event: Walk In, Dinner, and Winner Walk Away — so make it count. The genre could be house, country, or rock, just make it interesting and worthy of a winner. You do not want the ambiance in the room to smack of singles night at the old folks home.

Step 4: Go Black-Tie

This is one element that has been largely forgotten across America, and it really hurts the ol' awards ego. Announcing that something is black tie might only get 50 percent of the audience to wear top hat and tails, but the rest will take the hint and dress better than average.

Little tip for companies honoring sales associates: Spring for the tux rental and have the local tux shop come in and measure the entire sales staff. A night out in this fashion is less expensive than an incentive trip and will have them talking for weeks.

Step 5: Hire Paparazzi

How is Mary ever going to display her Realtor of the Year award if the only person who got a picture of the special moment was Roger with a disposable camera from Walgreens?

Go hire a pro with the right equipment. Before you pooh-pooh this idea as a giant waste of money, think of all the other places you can use this amazing imagery. These pictures will look good on your website, in a press release, around the office, and especially on your conference room wall where potential clients will see your staff's accomplishments. Everyone loves a winner — so display your winners.

Step 6: Get Décor That Is Actually Decorative

If you are using white table linens in a drab ballroom, you are setting yourself up for an evening of snooze. You need to get your funk on if you want people to act like this event is worth their time.

Look at the VMAs — they look like a rainbow exploded. Your budget need not fall off a cliff to get it done; you simply need to think circle when others think square. Use brightly colored table linens, low lighting, and candles. Get rid of the flower centerpieces and opt for something creative and off-kilter. Don't have enough money for a stage set? Use your company's trade show booth as a backdrop.

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Every company is different and has a unique personality. Use these tips to show off your company's personality. Don't be afraid — the worst thing that could happen is that people actually have fun this year.

Ready to make your next awards banquet truly unforgettable? Contact Robert Berry to check availability and get a custom quote.