Our Sales and Revenue Manager, Eleanor Muir, gives her top tips and recommendations.

Hotel rates across the industry can fluctuate depending on varying factors and it is no different here at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel where we offer a dynamic pricing policy for our bedrooms and conferences. This can be influenced by a number of factors and rates and can change in relation to previous demand, seasonality, days of the week, and significant events taking place in the local area.

 

Tips and Recommendations

In this month’s blog, I would like to offer some useful hints and tips on how to get the best deal for you, and your delegates, when booking a venue for your event. While it is true that booking rates can vary hugely depending on destination and event date, these tips should help you get the best deal anytime and anywhere.

I would recommend:

  • If you can, try and book your event at off peak times. Mondays and Fridays are often the cheapest, as are the summer months and school holidays.
  • Booking directly with a venue means you will always receive the best possible rate and at the Golden Jubilee this is the best way to ensure all of your needs are met.  Using a third party agent can sometimes add to the cost and information can get occasionally get lost in translation.
  • It is usually possible to negotiate a discounted rate when booking last minute. However it is important to remember that you run the risk of missing out on your venue of choice or, worst case scenario, there may be no availability anywhere on popular dates.
  • Always consider additional costs as venues can quote very differently so don’t presume that you are comparing like for like. You need to consider if costs such as free Wi-Fi and parking are included. Look out for packages such as “day delegate” rates or “24-hour delegate” rates, as these usually represent the best value.
  • Always look out for special offers – these are limited time deals which can often let you grab a bargain, at a much lower price than usual. At the Golden Jubilee, we regularly have discounted rates if you are flexible or prepaying.
  • If you are making a series of bookings you should tell the venue from the start of the discussion as corporate rates and discounts for “bulk” bookings can usually be negotiated.

 

The Cheapest Option is Not Always the Best Option

It’s always tempting to go for the cheapest deal, but sometimes when prices are low it is for a reason other than value and can make for an uncomfortable stay. Where possible, you should always choose a venue that truly understands your needs and has a dedicated conference or events team.  For further info, please call our Events Team on 0141 951 6006.

 

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In the stressful world that is Event Planning and Conference Booking, there are 5 questions that come up time and time again in the venue. Our Conference Supervisor, Yvonne McLean, lists here the repeat offenders!

 

1. What’s the Wifi password?

Ask the venue in advance for the password – this saves time on the day and delegates can get connected as soon as they arrive.  At the Golden Jubilee, we don’t have one so delegates can get online quickly with no hassle by agreeing to our T&Cs.

 

2. Extras!

Small word but covers a multitude. From an extra flipchart to extension leads  – make sure you have the name and number of your key contact at the venue.  Here at GJCH we have a handily located ‘bell’ in our Central plaza which connects immediately to either our conference team or our on-site AV technician.  Also, a toolkit box in every conference room contains those small essential items that are so easy to forget – scissors, blue tac, post its, etc.

 

3. Communication/Keeping in Touch

‘Where’s so and so?’  ‘Did they get?’  ‘Can they bring?’

A top tip from Kirsten Burke, our Event Manager,  “For our larger events, setting up a whatsapp group of key team members at the Jubilee and the event organisation staff, makes communication simple, effective and quick.”

 

4. Technology 

Always great when it works but for the times that it doesn’t – keep calm and remember that glitches happen to the best of us.  Check what support your venue can provide on the day.  James Perrie, our dedicated on-site AV technician, advises ‘It’s always good to check beforehand that your devices are compatible with the technology in the venue.  Even if it isn’t we can usually find a solution.”

 

 

5. Housekeeping

Half-way through the first speaker, the fire alarm goes off!  Test or real?  Familiarise yourself with fire exit routes, nearest toilets, etc.  Yvonne has a list that she either sends out before the event or briefs the conference organiser on the day.

 

Another piece of advice from Kirsten is ‘Plan, plan and plan!’  Check out our Event Planner guide for a comprehensive check list that will help you smash it! https://www.goldenjubileehotel.com/conferences