Where would you rather entertain business clients and talk about private matters? A hot, stuffy conference room in a crowded downtown office building or a private yacht? A business networking event on a yacht shows potential clients and business partners that you are anything but boring.
While a networking event on a yacht sounds classy and luxurious, most people think the logistics of hosting an event on the water are beyond them to organize. However, with some help from private yacht experts, organizing a business event that people will remember is easier than you think.
Why Host a Networking Event on a Yacht?
Hosting a business networking event on a yacht can help you make a lasting impression on clients and business professionals. Moving away from stale conference rooms and after-hours cocktail socials in crowded bars or restaurants can help you put your best foot forward, giving a professional and high-end impression. Few venues can match the luxury and memorability of a yachting experience showcasing the Chicago skyline or the majestic waterways of Lake Michigan.
Why should you choose a yacht for your next business networking event? When you host a networking event on a private Chicago yacht, you get:
- To make a lasting and strong impression.
- You stand out from the competition.
- Built-in amenities and spectacular scenic events for your guests and associates.
- You control the guest list, helping you make more meaningful connections and avoid interruptions or “party-crashers.”
- You create a more relaxed and engaging environment conducive to talking and networking with others without interruptions.
A yacht event also helps transform a typical networking event into an upscale experience that can boost your credibility and help you make more meaningful business connections.
How to Plan a Yacht Networking Event
Hosting a business event on a private yacht offers numerous benefits to help you grow your network and connections with others vital to your business. Whether you’re organizing a client appreciation mixer, cocktail hour, or industry meet-and-greet, your yacht event can be smooth and stylish. With some planning and help from a wide range of pre-approved and experienced catering and entertainment vendors, you can ensure your private networking event goes off without a hitch. Start the planning process by:
- Identify the purpose of your event and narrow down the guest list.
- Choose the perfect yacht and scenic location.
- Select a menu and choose vendors who can accomplish your vision.
- Plan the event flow, including time for introductions, entertainment, open networking, interactive elements, and closing for the evening.
- Promote your event or send invites.
A successful event is more than providing a time and space for business professionals to exchange business cards. A luxury yacht networking event creates a unique environment where individuals can talk and build genuine, memorable relationships and business connections.
Tips for Hosting a Successful Yacht Networking Mixer
A stunning location is only part of hosting a saucerful and unforgettable mixer or networking event. To help your event set sail smoothly, consider these tips:
- Carefully curate your guest list – The benefit of hosting a networking event on a private yacht is that you can control the guest list. You want to focus on the quality of the business connections, not the quantity. Carefully choose your guests and ensure you have a well-balanced mix of industry professionals to help you and your guests make connections that will help them grow.
- Focus on high-quality food and drinks that are easy to handle –You want to work with a catering company that can deliver high-quality, easy-to-nibble refreshments. Focus on small bites, finger foods, hors d’oeuvres, or grazing tables that are delicious but won’t be messy. Make drinks available to your guests for a professional business setting, but avoid letting alcohol dominate your event.
- Consider subtle and tasteful branding—You can help yourself stand out by adding subtle and tasteful branding touches to your event, such as welcome gifts, napkins, signage, or personalized drink menus. Include contact information to help your guests reach you after the event.
- Follow–up – Creating the perfect networking takes effort, but so does making connections and staying top of mind. After the event, send thank you notes or event photos captured by a preferred photography vendor. Alternatively, follow up with a phone call or connections on business-focused social media platforms.
A Memorable Event Starts and Ends with Anita Dee Yacht Charters
Anita Dee Yacht Charters is Chicago’s premier private charter yacht company. We can help you create an unforgettable networking event to impress business connections and potential clients. With two different luxury yachts, unique scenic location options, and a host of approved vendors at your fingertips, we can help you create the perfect event that allows you to stand out from the crowd, setting you up for business success.
Contact us online or call (312) 379-3191 to find out how we can help you create a business networking event that everyone will talk about.