Ten tips for finding an amazing party venue in Melbourne.

I regularly arrange all sorts and sizes of events at venues in Melbourne and I believe that Melbourne is one of the venue capitals of the world. Competition is tough and venues need to stand out. Melburnians are spoiled for choice when it comes to wining and dining, and the standard of service and cuisine has made us very demanding. A good venue must be able to transform into to a perfect wedding venue, an ideal corporate event venue, a first-class function room venue, an exceptional party venue … the list goes on.

One of the most demanding events to host is a wedding reception. My experience of wedding receptions in Melbourne is that they have to be as close to perfection as perfection itself; the stakes are high.

So, bearing in mind the type of event you wish to host, consider the following:

Is the venue the right size for the size of your event? How many people is it licensed to hold?
If the event is to be held during the night, look at the venue at night, you’ll be surprised how different the atmosphere will be. As different as night and day!
Will your guests be seated or standing? Arranging the layout will maximise a venue’s potential.
What is included in your venue hire? You’d be surprised how many times I have heard of guests turning up for an event and having nowhere to sit.
Has it been done before? A good caterer and event management company thrives on the challenge of creating something unique.
Security – some events need it and some don’t. If yours does, ensure that all your suppliers are informed and communicating with each another.
Environs – find out if there are any time restrictions and noise limits that may affect your event.
Cancellations – just in case. Chances are you won’t have to cancel your event but you should know your position if it comes to that.
Bar and waiter service – be sure to find out what level of service your staff is supplying. There are many levels of bar service, from cocktail specialists to one man behind the bar.
Lastly and most significantly: Catering. Make sure you get what you want and what you have planned for. Ensure you and your caterer understand and agree on how he or she will work in your venue.

One long-established caterer who lives and works by these principles is Peter Hayton of ACC Advanced Catering Concepts. Peter spends the year staging major catering events – his client résumé includes the Rolling Stones, Cirque de Soleil and England’s Barmy Army. With their exclusive selection of extraordinary Melbourne venues, Peter and his team are able to create and manage any size event you desire.

Peter is based in Cheltenham, Melbourne, Australia, and can be contacted on: 03 9555 4000.