Category: Event Planning
colleagues

Company Retreat Ideas to Unite and Inspire Your Team

Bringing your team together outside the formal work setting can go a long way. From strengthening communications to boosting productivity, you can achieve a wide variety of goals while keeping your employees happy.

Arranging a successful retreat starts with some serious brainstorming. Figuring out how to encourage team building isn’t always easy. By leveraging decades of corporate retreat experience, Frogbridge Events can share ideas to drive your event forward.

Company Retreat Ideas

Planning a company retreat can be difficult, but we are here to help. Some great retreat ideas to unite your team include:

A Technology-Free Day

No matter what industry you are in, your team is likely to be leveraging all kinds of tech for work and communication. Running around with a smartphone in your hand can be highly stressful. Thankfully, you can take this stress out of the picture by arranging a tech-free day.

An outdoor retreat with a variety of activities can take your team’s minds off work and encourage clarity of thinking. No-tech retreats can work amazingly well since the number of distractions is limited. Bring plenty of pens and paper. Outdoor no-tech meetings are bound to bring numerous fresh ideas to the table.

Winery Retreat

A visit to the winery can be a fun experience for the entire team. While they can learn something new about the history of wine and the way it’s made, your employees can relax and have fun without thinking about work. The beautiful scenery coupled with world-class wine can encourage communication and team bonding.

Also, when it comes to arranging alcohol-related events, make sure to check the way your employees feel about it in advance. Some people may not be happy with this choice for religious or health reasons. If that’s the case, you may want to choose another option.

A City Tour

The city or town you work in is bound to have some history your team doesn’t know anything about. To bring your employees closer together, you can take them on a day-long city tour with an experienced guide. During the tour, you can explore the local cuisine, visit museums, and learn more about the place’s history. Such explorations do wonders for bringing people closer together and inspiring new ideas.

If you can’t find a worthy tour in your area, consider taking a bus to the nearest city that can offer something fun and exciting.

Cooking Class

Learning to do something together is the pillar of team building. During a corporate retreat, you can consider arranging a cooking class. Being together in one kitchen and sharing responsibilities is a great way to foster trust and collaboration.

Besides having fun and developing new skills, a cooking class creates an opportunity for sharing a meal afterward. 

Play Team Sports

Team sports are as close to teamwork as you can get. Volleyball, basketball, or bowling are fun to play. Even if one of your team members has never played the game before, they can easily learn the rules and join the excitement.

When you arrange a team sports event, you don’t just encourage teamwork. You take care of your employees’ well-being. After the game is over, employees can discuss their achievements over a tasty meal.

A Picnic

If the weather allows, company picnics are always fun and relaxing. The opportunity to cook and share food can give your team members a chance to collaborate outside the traditional setting. Outdoor picnics aren’t just entertaining, they are great for your team’s health.

Research shows that spending just 20 minutes in the park can improve a person’s well-being. A well-planned picnic can reduce stress levels, boost relaxation, and drive inspiration.

A True Adventure

If your team members have an adventurous nature, you can get away with planning an unusual company retreat. From zip lining and bungee jumping to snorkeling and scavenger hunts, your team members will love the idea.

Excitement coupled with adrenaline can help your team members discover each other’s strong sides and learn how to make them work for the common cause.

Plan the Ideal Company Retreat with Frogbridge Events in New Jersey

The key to the ideal company retreat is the locale. Frogbridge Events offers the perfect location that puts excitement, activities, and relaxation into one package. Whether you are planning a basketball game, an anti-conference, a picnic, or a tech-free day, we can make it work.  Our team can help you bring even the boldest corporate event ideas to life. 

To learn more about this comprehensive retreat opportunity, please fill out a short contact form or call our team at (609) 208-9475.

Business people meeting at office

8 Corporate Retreat Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

At a corporate retreat, achieving the perfect balance between work and fun is never easy. Finding the ideal place that resonates with your team’s wishes while keeping focus on the agenda requires some serious planning.

When organizing a perfect retreat, you have to keep hundreds of things in mind. However, you don’t need to go through this planning process alone. Our team at Frogbridge Events is here to provide all the support you may need as you plan your corporate retreat.

Corporate Retreat Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

There are a multitude of things to keep in mind while planning your retreat. Some common mistakes – along with how to avoid them – include:

1. Ignoring the “Employee Persona”

While you and your employees are a strong team, you may have different retreat preferences. Since the goal of your corporate event isn’t just to focus on work but to create a relaxing atmosphere, ignoring these preferences is a mistake.

Consider taking the time to learn what your team wants to achieve during this retreat and how it prefers to relax. The easiest way to do this is to ask. A quick email survey can do the trick.

2. Forgetting About Schedule Conflicts

If your team members have to miss a Thanksgiving dinner because you are taking them away on a retreat to a different state, they are going to have some serious trouble focusing on work. Discussing the date and time with your team members is a great way to make sure that they are emotionally and mentally available for the event.

3. Staying in the Office

Many executives make the mistake of thinking that a corporate event in the office does wonders for the team’s focus. In reality, the reason why it’s called a “retreat” is because you are “retreating” from the traditional work setting.

The place for your retreat should be as different from the office scene as possible. Changing the scenery encourages relaxation and creativity. 

4. Focusing Solely on Work

The point of the corporate retreat is to create a relaxing atmosphere for your team. It means adding the entertainment element to the event. Whether it’s miniature golf and beach volleyball or horse riding and poker games, you need to make sure your team is having fun.

While brainstorming, searching for new solutions, and discussing the work agenda can be integral to a successful retreat, giving your mind a chance to relax can streamline the process tremendously.

5. Not Planning for Families

If you want to encourage some serious team building, you may want to consider inviting families and children to your corporate retreat. The goal is to make sure everyone feels comfortable. So, if you are ready to reap the benefits of employee family bonding, you need to make sure their families are part of the fun.

6. Sharing Rooms

If your retreat is more than one day long, you have to think about lodging. When booking rooms for the team, many companies try to save money and put two people in one hotel room. While it’s definitely a great way to save, this type of arrangement can lead to a disaster.

Working together and living together are two completely different things. Two people who hit it off perfectly in the office could hate each other’s sleeping or showering habits. Forcing them to share accommodations could ruin your team-building plans and cause burnout.  

7. Not Planning Enough Free Time

No matter how great of a planner you are, don’t overplan the retreat. Your team should have some free time to have fun, relax, and even get some sleep. By the way, scheduling early morning meetings during a retreat is a big no-no. If your employees have to get up at 6 a.m. to get ready for a meeting, you take the fun out of the entire day.

Instead, you can schedule a fun morning activity and move the meeting to the afternoon. Then, you can let your employees choose how they want to spend their evenings.

8. Expecting Too Much

The success of your corporate event depends on hundreds of factors, many of which aren’t under your control. Keep your expectations reasonable, and you can truly enjoy the process while reaping maximum benefits.  

Start Planning Your Perfect Corporate Retreat with Frogbridge Events Today

When it comes to making the most out of your corporate retreat, you need the perfect location. Frogbridge Events offers a highly versatile outdoor locale with everything you need to make your team happy. From sports activities and swimming to comfortable meeting spaces, we give you everything you need to reach your retreat goals.

If you are looking for a beautiful location, we are here to help. To explore our multiple options, please fill out a contact form or call us at (609) 208-9475.

corporate dinner party

Planning an Unforgettable Corporate Dinner

Corporate dinners are an excellent way to recognize staff, network with clients, promote teamwork, and celebrate the company’s success. However, planning the perfect corporate dinner party requires careful consideration. Everything from the menu to the table setting must be designed to fit the company’s mission.

Here at Frogbridge Events, we regularly organize corporate dinner parties in our corporate party venue in Central NJ of over 86 acres filled with fun activities. We can uniquely curate a plan that fits your coming corporate dinner. 

How to Plan an Unforgettable Corporate Dinner

Planning a corporate dinner doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are some tips for how to get started:

1. Establish a Budget

A budget can determine how much money you can allocate to food, entertainment, and other expenses. Estimate the guest list and establish your overall spending to create a personalized experience for each guest. Your budget should also accommodate unforeseen problems and costs. Working with an event planner can help make a realistic and achievable corporate dinner.

2. Find the Perfect Venue

Whether you’re planning an intimate corporate dinner or a large dinner party, finding the right venue can make or break your event. You should choose a stunning venue with a unique private dining space to make the attendees’ experience smooth and enjoyable.

A top corporate dinner venue like Frogbridge Events ensures your guests dine in style as they relax, socialize, and enjoy top-of-the-line entertainment. You’ll have an easily customizable space to showcase your brand while creating a memorable experience.

3. Think About Catering

What else can make an unforgettable corporate dinner more memorable than great food? The type of food you serve at your corporate dinner can create a memorable culinary experience for employees and guests. To achieve this feat, work with caterers who can customize your event menu to match the theme of your event and brand. You should consider the dietary needs of each attendee and address the specific allergies that they may have as well.

4. Choose Your Dates

Select a date and time that will work for the employees, guests, and vendors. Your event should not conflict with holidays or other events to maximize attendance. After selecting your dates, you should:

  • Start planning early:  Early planning of your corporate dinner gives you extra time to ensure all aspects of the event are taken care of. 
  • Send invitations early: Invitations evoke excitement and anticipation for a corporate dinner by providing details about the event’s date, time, venue, and goals.

Planning a corporate dinner can be both rewarding and time-consuming. Therefore, select a convenient date and start planning early to keep things on track. This will help you ensure all your plans reflect the company’s mission, culture, and overall event theme.

5. Plan the Dinner Activities and Program

Planning an unforgettable corporate dinner may also require planning engaging activities and programs to keep guests entertained. Incorporate icebreakers that encourage conversations and dinner games to help maintain team spirit. You can also have someone greet the guests as they arrive and schedule some networking time and activities that stimulate conversations.

6. Arrange Entertainment

An unforgettable corporate dinner should be fun, interactive, and lively. Entertainment creates a welcoming atmosphere that puts everyone at ease. The dinner party could feature professional entertainers, from live musicians to a DJ. Incorporating entertainment at your dinner party will ensure your guests have a great time while providing a backdrop to any conversation.

7. Establish the Theme

The theme sets the atmosphere for your event. Create a theme that everyone will remember. You should establish the event’s main focus, set specific goals and objectives, and design an event that truly stands out. This involves being creative with the theme and incorporating ideas that enliven your guests. Your style influences other aspects of your event and sets it up for success.

Planning a Corporate Dinner? Come to Frogbridge Events

Corporate dinner parties allow corporations to make connections and promote their businesses in a customized setting. A well-organized corporate dinner can work wonders for your brand and business. However, that doesn’t take away the possibility of a delightful evening.

At Frogbridge Events, we can help you execute your vision and save you the headache of planning a one-of-a-kind corporate dinner. Our stunning corporate event spaces are equipped with all the top-notch recreational amenities, sophisticated dining rooms, and competent staff you need to have an engaging corporate dinner. Let us handle all the nitty-gritty details while you focus on enjoying the event with coworkers and visitors. Contact us online or call us today at (609) 208-9475 to reserve a dining space for your next corporate dinner.

virtual team meeting

How to Plan an Immersive Hybrid Corporate Retreat

Corporate retreats are an excellent way for companies to foster collaboration, recharge, and engage employees. After COVID-19, hybrid systems of work became the new normal for most companies. Employee engagement becomes a significant hurdle, leading to low morale and stifled productivity. 

The need for corporate retreats that combine both in-person and virtual experiences has increased. With careful planning and help from Frogbridge Events, you can host a hybrid corporate retreat that engages participants and delivers meaningful outcomes for the company.

The Power of Hybrid Corporate Retreats

Hybrid events are not a digital supplement to in-person employee engagement. They offer the opportunity to increase attendance by accommodating those who cannot attend the event physically. Hybrid events also allow remote and geographically diverse presenters to interact seamlessly with virtual and in-person attendees.

Hybrid events also lead to low operational costs by reducing the number of in-person attendees and professionals. It opens the door to involve professionals who would have otherwise declined to attend the event due to travel and time constraints. Rather than setting aside a few days to travel and attend the event, they only need to spare a few hours.

Tips for Planning an Immersive Hybrid Corporate Retreat

The following tips will help you shake things up and plan an engaging hybrid event:

Leverage Collaborative Technology

Incorporate innovative technology platforms that offer live-streaming and virtual networking features. Conduct thorough research on the available video conferencing and communication options before settling on any platform. Ensure the platform provides the right tools for your event and at the right price for your budget.

Promote structured networking sessions for both in-person and virtual attendees as well. Virtual networking sessions and online discussion forums encourage participants to share ideas and build lasting professional relationships.

Include Feedback

Use polls and Q&A features during the event to gather feedback from both online and in-person participants. This makes your audience feel that their opinions are valued and appreciated. Surveys can be used to gather post-event insights to measure the event’s impact and success and gauge improvement areas.

Integrate Virtual Breakout Sessions

Engaging the virtual audience at every stage is crucial so that they don’t just feel like spectators. Virtual breakout sessions allow virtual attendees to be divided into smaller groups for discussions and other activities. 

Send Swag to Virtual Employees

As the in-person attendees are being treated to the indulgences of a corporate retreat, their virtual counterparts should not be left out. If lunch is catered for in-person attendees, consider reimbursing virtual attendees for their lunch or sending them meals and any gifts that in-person participants will receive.

Choose a Location

Many corporate retreats are hosted in remote areas, allowing attendees to take a break from their everyday environments. When choosing the venue to host a hybrid corporate retreat, consider venues that offer reliable internet and on-site audiovisual equipment.

For in-person attendees, ensure the venue is close to transportation and accommodation facilities for a seamless experience.

Additional Tips

Here are some bonus tips to make your corporate event enjoyable for both in-person and virtual participants:

  • When planning a hybrid event that involves geographically diverse employees, it is crucial to consider time zones and schedules.
  • You also need to consider the duration of the event. Virtual attendees will be less inclined to sit at their screens all day. Consider scheduling the event for an allocated amount of time.
  • Allow in-person attendees to settle down before starting the video conference. Similarly, make it clear when the retreat is over, so people know when it is time to leave.

You can create a memorable and immersive hybrid corporate retreat experience by strategically combining in-person and virtual elements. Remember to adjust the planning process according to your organization’s specific needs and dynamics.

How Can Frogbridge Events Help With Your Corporate Retreat Planning?

Planning an immersive hybrid corporate event is an intense, time-consuming activity. Frogbridge Events‘ team is here to take the pressure off. We have years of experience planning corporate events for companies of many sizes. We offer many options to customize your event to suit your organization and team.

We will coordinate all aspects of your company retreat, allowing you to enjoy and engage with your team. With proper planning and execution, a hybrid corporate event can drive positive change in your organization. Call us at (609) 208-9475 or complete our form online to start planning a stress-free, one-of-a-kind hybrid corporate retreat.

Video call

How Hybrid Corporate Retreats Help Connect Geographically Diverse Workforces

Corporate retreats are valuable opportunities that allow team members to collaborate, develop new skills, network, and take a break from their daily work environments. In today’s digital age, companies can hire talent from anywhere globally. Employee engagement has become a significant challenge as more companies adopt remote and hybrid workforces.

However, hybrid corporate retreats are gaining popularity among hybrid workforces. It combines in-person and virtual experiences to bridge the physical gap between team members in different locations.

Benefits of Hybrid Corporate Retreats for Geographically Diverse Workforces

There are numerous benefits of hybrid corporate retreats for geographically diverse teams. The following are some ways that mixed corporate retreats help to foster connections:

Inclusive Participation

Regional diversity among teams can lead to isolation and a lack of cohesive team spirit. Hybrid retreats allow employees from different locations and time zones to actively participate in team-building activities and networking. Remote employees can participate in the retreat and voice their opinions and perspectives.

Bridging the Gap

Working in geographically dispersed teams presents unique challenges in building relationships among colleagues. Hybrid retreats can allow employees to network and interact face-to-face, promoting unity and shared purpose. Employees get to know each other personally, leading to better communication and collaboration.

Increased Empathy and Understanding

When teams from different locations come together, they get a chance to understand each other’s work environments, challenges, and cultural perspectives. This sharing of experiences fosters empathy and breaks down biases and misunderstandings. 

Teams learn to leverage video conferencing and collaborative tools through hybrid retreats to communicate seamlessly across different locations. Hybrid retreats are vital in enhancing effective communication practices in a geographically diverse workforce.

Collaboration and Team Building

Hybrid retreats also create a conducive environment for collaboration and innovation. By bringing together diverse perspectives and skills, employees can engage in brainstorming sessions, problem-solving activities, and workshops that promote creative thinking to generate fresh ideas. 

Team building activities during hybrid retreats help strengthen teamwork. These activities encourage collaboration across locations, foster trust, and enhance cooperation among geographically dispersed teams.

Networking Opportunities and Relationship Building

During hybrid retreats, attendees can be put into virtual breakout sessions that divide them into smaller groups for discussions and group activities. This allows employees to connect with colleagues they may not have had a chance to meet otherwise. 

Breakout sessions are an excellent opportunity to connect in-person attendees with their virtual counterparts. Team-building activities and social events create networking and relationship-building avenues, which foster trust, cooperation, and a sense of camaraderie among team members.

Knowledge Sharing and Company Culture

Hybrid retreats encourage sharing knowledge, expertise, and best practices across different locations. Attendees can present their projects, share insights, and exchange ideas, leading to knowledge exchange and continuous learning within the organization.

These retreats cultivate a sense of belonging among geographically diverse workforces. Employees who feel connected and valued are more likely to be motivated and loyal to the organization. Hybrid retreats help create a shared company culture, reinforce organizational values, and strengthen employees’ overall sense of belonging.

Discover the Power of Hybrid Corporate Retreats at Frogbridge Events

Are you looking to connect your geographically diverse workforce, foster collaboration, and strengthen team dynamics? Explore the transformative potential of hybrid corporate retreats at Frogbridge Events! We have experience planning corporate events for numerous Fortune 500 companies. We provide many options to customize your event to fit the needs of your company and your team.

Organizations can reap the immersive benefits of a cohesive and inclusive workforce by strategically combining in-person and virtual elements. Contact us online or call us at (609) 208-9475 to start planning a one-of-a-kind hybrid corporate retreat. Don’t miss this opportunity to revolutionize your corporate retreats and drive organizational success.

Company retreat itinerary

Tips for Creating an Itinerary For a Company Retreat

There is a lot of planning that goes into creating your company retreat itinerary. Whether you’re looking to offer training in an unstructured atmosphere, improve company culture and boost morale with an offsite team building event, or simply get your whole team together after several months of being apart, a company retreat is definitely something to think about.

However, making the decision to invest in and take the plunge into a company getaway is the easy part. The challenging part is the planning. From sorting out logistics to choosing a destination, the entire process can be a bit overwhelming as well as time-consuming.  Below you’ll find some tips that will help you create your itinerary for your company retreat.

Tips to Create Your Company Retreat Itinerary

Here are some tips that you can follow that may help you create your company retreat itinerary with more organization and ease.

1. Company Retreat Purpose

It’s important that you determine what the purpose of your corporate retreat is early on to ensure that this purpose will be supported by your itinerary. For instance, will you require team-building exercises? Will work-related discussions need to occur? What goals are you looking to accomplish with the retreat? 

2. Company Retreat Goals

If team building is an important activity on your itinerary, it’s essential that you consider locations that will provide enough activities either in the hotel/resort or in the surrounding location. Some examples of activities may include:

  • Hiking
  • Yoga
  • Skiing
  • Boating
  • Water sports

If you’re looking to implement some morning teamwork and then enjoy a little afternoon downtime, it’s critical that you choose locations with work-friendly venues, such as suitable table space, fast internet, and more.

3. Company Retreat Duration

It’s essential that you carefully consider the duration of the event. Typically, it’s recommended that international trips last around a week to account for jet lag and travel time. For domestic trips, three or four days tends to work well.

If you’re planning a domestic trip but you have members of the team that are coming from overseas, it’s recommended that you fly them in one or two days early to give them more time to settle in. By doing this, you won’t have to increase the length of the trip for everyone (which will increase your expenses).

4. Company Retreat Location

The transportation to the retreat location is just as important to consider as the retreat itself. It may be in your best interest to find locations for your company retreat that are close to major airports and only require a short drive. This will help the members of your team feel more relaxed and excited that they’ll have more time to spend with their colleagues.

Keep in mind, if you have members of the team spread out all around the world, it’s a great idea to switch the locations up — this way, everyone will have the chance to take shorter flights.

5. Company Retreat Team-Building Activities and Recreation

Now, it’s time to plan out the fun retreat events and activities since you’ve gotten the difficult logistics out of the way. Plan out activities that you can do as a team. It’s best to book them in advance. Also, since this isn’t entirely a vacation but instead a company retreat, you can plan in team-building exercises and talks.

Some examples of retreat activities you might want to consider incorporating into your itinerary include:

  • Scavenger hunts where the members of your team will be broken down into smaller teams
  • Hiring an industry expert or motivational speaker to deliver a speech
  • Wine tastings or cooking classes with the option for individuals to opt out if they prefer not to be around alcohol
  • Hackathons where members of the team from various departments are put into a group to come up with a new product or business idea that they’ll present to the whole staff
  • Escape rooms where you’ll break your team members down into groups
  • Kickball, dodgeball, or paintball, where different departments will compete against others

If this is your first company retreat or you’re not sure where to start, you may want to look into services like Frogbridge Events. We can come in and help you plan out your dream company retreat itinerary while answering any other questions you may have.

Choose the Right Company Retreat Venue with Frogbridge Events

A big step towards a successful company retreat is planning out an itinerary that works with your and your team’s goals. It can be challenging to plan the perfect corporate retreat that will make everyone happy, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Let Frogbridge Events‘ highly-efficient team come in and handle the planning for you.

For your next company retreat to be a success, you’ll want to plan out a fun itinerary that will keep your employees engaged while fostering a sense of teamwork. Frogbridge Events specializes in planning out company events and retreats and can take the burden of your itinerary away from you. Call our team at (609) 208-9475 or fill out our contact form on our website for more information on how we can help you plan out your next successful company retreat.

teambuilding in the hike

3 Reasons Why Accessibility Is Important During a Company Retreat

Not all concerns regarding accessibility are centered around ADA compliance and wheelchair ramps. There are many other forms of accessibility to consider as well. If you have members of your team that have special needs, it’s important that you ensure they’re already covered so they don’t have to approach you and ask. Also, certain members of your team may not be comfortable with things such as heights or noises. Learning these aspects ahead of time will make planning your retreat easier.

Your ultimate goal is likely to plan a company retreat that the members of your team want to actually attend. By asking for input from your team, it can help improve engagement and make your retreat more accessible. Today, accessibility is a topic of conversation that comes up often. Whether you’re hosting a retreat that will last for days or just an overnight event with a small meeting, you need to ensure your planning will provide all your attendees with an inclusive and positive experience. There are a number of reasons why accessibility is essential during a company retreat, which we delve into below. 

Three Reasons Why Accessibility Is Important

Everybody who attends a company event should be made to feel welcome so they can enjoy all aspects of the event completely. A vital part of planning out your company retreat is ensuring that any attendees with disabilities are able to participate fully. Not to mention, the law requires that all public events are accessible to everyone. 

Some reasons to ensure that your next company retreat is more accessible are:

1. It Will Address the Needs of Your Attendees

Your attendees will likely require something during the retreat that helps them enjoy the event more and have the ability to settle in. Each individual’s needs may vary, which is why it’s recommended that you ask them about any special requirements ahead of time and keep the lines of communication open for any concerns. This way, you can ensure they’re informed of what’s available or what may need to change.

2. It Will Help You Plan and Implement Inclusive Activities

Ensure competitions, breakout sessions, ice-breakers, and other event activities are also multi-sensory or accessible. Work with facilitators to make sure the mechanics and rules still enable people with disabilities to participate.

3. Enables You to Accommodate Individuals With Mobility Challenges

When considering mobility changes, you should think about more than just wheelchairs. Certain individuals with mobility challenges might use walkers, canes, or scooters. Others with mobility impairments might not need the help of assistive devices but may require extra space, time, support, or seating options.

Ramps don’t always solve all mobility challenges. For instance, an individual who needs to use a cane might find the stairs easier to navigate. Portable lifts might offer some individuals with better access. Also, those with chronic inflammation or arthritis might benefit from being allowed extra minutes between sessions since they might require a little time to rest as they walk.

Accessibility Is Imperative To Make Everyone Feel Included

From print materials, interpreter services, and seating to spaces for attendees to rest between each session, company retreat planning involves planning an event that’s accessible to all attendees.

It’s important that you keep all attendees in mind when planning truly inclusive events, regardless of the types of accommodation requests that you receive. You can reach out to disability organizations and groups for planning solutions and resources, and you should welcome any feedback from attendees (and act on it), as every event can be an opportunity to improve over your last event.

Make sure your attendees can put in requests for reasonable accommodations. These are adjustments to the environment that enable individuals with disabilities to fully participate. You’ll also want to reach out to your attendees and ask if they were able to participate fully and if they were comfortable. 

Accessibility in company events and retreats is a must these days. With 15% of the population in the world experiencing some type of disability, it’s important to ensure your company events and retreats are inclusive and accessible. As the event coordinator, planner, and decision-maker, you need to plan your events with accessibility in mind. 

Enlist the Help of Frogbridge Events to Create an Accessible Company Retreat

Planning a company retreat can be a challenging process when you’re attempting to make adjustments and incorporate new ideas for a broader audience. The good news is that you don’t have to do this challenging project all on your own. You can enlist the help of a team of experts who specialize in company retreats to help make sure your event is accessible.

At Frogbridge Events, we partner and work with organizations to help plan out their retreats and events while focusing on their primary goals to make every event accessible to their attendees. We can help you plan out an outstanding corporate retreat that’s ideal for all your attendees. Give us a call at (609) 208-9475 or use our contact form to talk with a professional for your next company event.

Budget for your company retreat

How to Incorporate a Company Retreat Budget Into Your Company’s Yearly Budget

A memorable company retreat can be the ultimate difference between a dull, boring company and an interconnected, dynamic company culture. Company retreats are by far some of the best perks in the workplace available. 

Company retreats have been shown to increase productivity, boost morale, help workers renew their enthusiasm for the job they do, and bring people together. While this sounds good in theory, there’s typically one question that comes to mind during the planning of a company event – how can the company create a reasonable budget for the company retreat? Below are five tips to help you incorporate a company retreat budget into your annual budget.

5 Tips to Incorporate a Solid Budget for your Company Retreat 

The initial step in your attempt to run a fun, smooth, and productive company retreat is to look over your budget. Keep in mind, you don’t need a ton of money to create a memorable company retreat – you just need to do a little smart budgeting so you know precisely how much to allocate for each aspect of your event.

1. Set Goals and Requirements 

Your goals will detail what you’re looking to accomplish during your company retreat and can also focus on the “vibe” of the retreat. On the other hand, the requirements are your must-haves. These typically detail things like space limitations, transportation, or even food allergies. Some goals you may wish to consider include: 

  • Connecting new employees with colleagues in their own department
  • Creating an organic way for members of the team to bond outside the workplace
  • Announcing a new internal program launch
  • Bonding your remote team in-person

Factoring in certain goals and requirements can give you a good starting point.  

2. Location 

With location, this doesn’t necessarily mean the venue – it may also mean the town, city, province, or country where your offsite company retreat will take place. Depending on the location chosen, the costs of staying there, as well as the expense of getting there, will vary. 

3. Implement the Quarter Rule 

Regardless of how decisive you are on the amount you spend on your corporate retreat, it’s likely that you’ll fall into some confusion and doubt, particularly if you’re planning a retreat for the first time. To avoid this, you’ll want to split your retreat budget into several categories to ensure you’re accounting for all aspects of the event. These include transportation, accommodation, activities, and meals.

Once you put these components into place, it will be much easier for you to incorporate your retreat budget into your overall yearly company budget, and there won’t be any surprises later on. Strategically planning out your budget for your retreat will help you figure in expenses for things like daily meals and beverages, the length of the retreat, and costs of other activities. 

4. Factor Miscellaneous Costs into your Budget 

While it’s ideal to take all essentials into account that may constitute the company trip, you should also budget in any extra costs that could potentially arise down the road. You should allocate 5% of the company retreat funds into your budget plan as a substantial consideration. This will ensure you won’t need to dip into the finances you set aside for other aspects of the trip.

5. Compare All Your Options 

You may also want to compare all cost options when budgeting for your company retreat. Doing this can help you ask essential questions that can make deciding on the location for your retreat accessible and decrease the expense of your budget. To choose a location that fits into your budget, you’ll want to compare several different locations and take into consideration the cost of their activities, meals, and accommodations. 

Choosing the Right Retreat Venue 

There’s no doubt that everyone would love to go on an amazing corporate retreat — and the venue is the biggest and most important component of this. Whether you’re planning on hiring out a converted facility event area for the day or investing in an overnight retreat at a spa resort, the venue is likely going to be what your team remembers the most.

Therefore, it’s always a good idea to do a small amount of benchmarking before you commit to any one venue to allow you to get the best price-quality ratio for precisely what you require. Some essential things to consider about the venue you choose include: 

  • The amenities available
  • The accommodation choices it offers
  • Will the venue be able to cater to all of your requirements?
  • Is it difficult to reach?
  • What types of catering options do they provide?

These are only some of the many questions individuals will need to ask themselves when planning a retreat and choosing a venue.

Let Frogbridge Events Help You Plan Your Next Company Retreat 

Planning and budgeting for a company retreat is challenging. Planning a corporate retreat on a budget can be particularly difficult. You need to secure a venue, arrange transportation, organize accommodations, and ensure you have everything you require to ensure your team has a good time. Fortunately, you don’t have to deal with all of these tasks by yourself. 

Hire the professional services of Frogbridge Events to come in and coordinate everything you require for a fun and successful company retreat. Call us at (609) 208-9475 or fill out our contact form on our website to learn more about the variety of company event packages we offer, including planning out a company retreat on a budget.

Giant Jenga Game Puzzle

Five Accessible Games for Your Next Company Retreat

The inclusion of the entire team is one of the most important aspects of team building. When planning your retreat, you want to be sure that the activities that you choose do not exclude anyone with mobility issues or other special needs from participating. The whole idea of team building is demonstrating to your team the positive effects of working (and playing) together through enjoyable and engaging activities, such as a fun game. Carefully choosing games that are tailored to everyone on your team is essential.

In order for any company retreat to be successful, all the participants must feel comfortable in the location, events, and team-building exercises. Team bonding is crucial in this context, as inclusive activities help enhance collaboration and interpersonal relationships among team members. Some employees may hesitate to participate if their necessary needs make it difficult for them. Frogbridge Events can help you figure out how to incorporate accessible games into your next company retreat.

What Accessible Team Building Games Can You Incorporate?

There are many types of games that you may work into your corporate retreat that make them accessible for all. Some examples include:

1. Starting With An Ice Breaker

Depending on the size of your group, a great icebreaker is the “Who Am I?” game. Each employee is given a name tag that is pinned to their back. The name on the tag is that of a famous person or character. That employee must ask other guests questions about the person on their tag until they can correctly guess the name. This game is particularly effective in helping integrate new team members into the group.

For example, on Sally’s back is the name of Donald Duck. She might ask others if she is a real person or a fictional person. Is she male or female? Old or young? Limit the questions to one per person so everyone must speak to multiple employees. You can give prizes for the quickest guess, the most questions asked, or even the name who best represents the employee.

2. Getting to Know You

This game is especially fun if your employees are a bit unfamiliar with each other. You can describe something about one of the employees, and team members guess who you are describing. The more obscure the fact, the better. If you are bringing together salespeople from across the country who seldom get to interact with each other, it can be fun and very interesting to see what they would guess.

An example would be, “This person has been to all fifty states.” Each person would write down who they think that would be. The one with the most guesses wins and can receive a prize.

3. A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Depending on the size of your group, split into teams of five or six people. You could play a company version of Pictionary, where the teams guess what one member is drawing. Get creative with words that have some connection with the company, such as the location, what they do, or something familiar to employees. You can also choose from movie titles, current events, or famous names or places. This game encourages creative thinking among team members.

A variation of this for larger groups is charades, where one person acts out the clue and the others must guess the word or phrase.

4. Truth or Lies

Truth or Lies is a great game for everyone and is perfect for getting to know others on your team. Each member of the team writes down four statements about themselves. Three of the statements are false and one is true. The other team members must guess which is the truth and which are lies, fostering interaction and collaboration. 

By making the truth obscure enough that others will not guess, the team members will then know a hidden fact about their teammates. This is especially fun when all the members are somewhat familiar with each other.

You can also change this game up by giving participants four statements, with only one being true. They could center around their location, their company, or even their boss.

5. Learn Together

Classes are a great way to bond with others. Though not really a game, it can be fun and rewarding. Consider a painting class, for example. Instead of having everyone paint the same object or scene, have them paint different items that somehow fit together. This requires teams to create a storyline and work together to tell the story. These activities foster team spirit by enhancing morale, trust, and unity among participants.

Other learning opportunities may include collecting and identifying plants or leaves and scrapbooking them, planning a menu and preparing the meal, setting up an ice cream or hot chocolate bar, and preparing food for other teams or any number of ideas that can be fun while learning something new.

Choosing the Right Team-Building Game

Selecting the right team-building game is crucial for ensuring that your company retreat is both enjoyable and effective. Here are some key considerations to help you make the best choice:

Consider Your Company Culture

When choosing a team-building game, it’s essential to align the activity with your company culture. Reflect on your organization’s core values, norms, and expectations. Ask yourself:

  • What are our core values, and how can we incorporate them into the game?
  • What type of activities do our team members enjoy, and how can we tailor the game to their interests?
  • Are there any specific challenges or issues that we’re facing as a team, and how can the game help address them?

By considering these questions, you can select a team-building game that not only entertains but also reinforces your company’s values and addresses any team dynamics that need improvement.

Assess Your Team’s Interests

Understanding your team’s interests is another critical factor in choosing the right team-building game. Think about the hobbies and activities that your team members enjoy outside of work. Consider the following:

  • What are our team members’ hobbies or interests outside of work?
  • What types of games or activities do they enjoy, and how can we incorporate those into the team-building game?
  • Are there any specific skills or strengths that our team members possess, and how can we utilize those in the game?

By tailoring the game to your team’s interests, you ensure that the activity is engaging and enjoyable for everyone involved. This approach not only boosts participation but also makes the team-building exercise more relevant and impactful.

Why Accessibility Matters in Team Building

Creating inclusive environments for team building isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also good for your organization. When every team member can fully participate in activities, it fosters a deeper sense of belonging and sends a powerful message about your company’s values and culture. Recognizing each team member’s unique qualities and ideas enhances the overall effectiveness of the bonding exercises.

Research from the Society for Human Resource Management indicates that companies with inclusive team-building practices see up to 30% higher employee engagement scores. This translates directly to improved productivity, reduced turnover, and stronger team cohesion. Inclusive practices demonstrate to all employees that their contributions are valued regardless of physical abilities.

Accessible team-building activities also help remove barriers between colleagues who might not typically interact due to different roles or departments. These connections can lead to improved cross-departmental collaboration once you return to the workplace. 

Creating Adaptable Activities for Various Needs

When planning accessible activities, consider how team-building games can be adapted for various needs while maintaining the core elements that make them enjoyable and meaningful.

Visual Accessibility Considerations

For team members with visual impairments, consider activities that don’t rely solely on visual cues. Audio-based games or those with tactile elements work well. For games like Pictionary, consider pairing participants so that someone can describe what’s happening visually. Materials with high contrast and large print can make many activities more accessible for those with partial vision.

Many digital tools now offer built-in screen reader compatibility for technology-based activities. When selecting apps or online platforms for your team-building exercises, prioritize those with strong accessibility features. The American Foundation for the Blind recommends testing any digital components before your event to ensure compatibility with assistive technology.

Mobility Considerations

For team members with mobility restrictions, ensure that all activity areas are physically accessible with clear pathways and appropriate seating options. Position activity stations so that everyone can participate without feeling isolated or separated from their teams.

Consider the energy levels required for different activities and plan accordingly. Alternate between more active games and those requiring less physical exertion to accommodate varying energy levels and abilities. Activities that can be done while seated should be interspersed with those requiring movement.

Cognitive and Sensory Considerations

Some team members may have sensory sensitivities or neurodivergent traits that make certain environments challenging. Providing quiet spaces for breaks can help those who need occasional time away from stimulating environments. Clear, straightforward instructions presented both verbally and in writing can help ensure everyone understands how to participate.

Consider the noise levels of various activities and provide options for noise reduction, such as quieter areas for discussion-based activities. The National Center on Disability and Journalism suggests planning events with sensory considerations can improve participation by up to 40% among team members with sensory processing differences.

Problem-Solving Games

Problem-solving games are excellent for enhancing critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills. Here’s a fun and interactive game to consider:

Blind Drawing

Blind drawing is a fantastic problem-solving game that can help improve communication skills, critical thinking, and teamwork. Here’s how to play:

  • Divide the team into pairs, with one team member acting as the “artist” and the other as the “instructor.”
  • The instructor is given a picture or object to describe to the artist, who must then draw it without looking at the original image.
  • The artist can only ask yes or no questions to the instructor to clarify the description.
  • The team must work together to create an accurate drawing, relying on clear communication and critical thinking.

This game is an excellent way to promote problem-solving skills, as team members must work together to overcome the challenges of blind drawing. It’s also a fun and engaging way to build teamwork and communication skills, making it a perfect addition to your company retreat.

Remote and Hybrid Accessibility Options

In today’s workplace, team retreats often include remote participants or hybrid elements. Ensuring these team members feel equally included requires thoughtful planning.

Virtual platforms can actually enhance accessibility for many activities. Features like closed captioning, text-based participation options, and the ability to adjust screen displays make many digital team-building experiences more inclusive by default. When selecting virtual team-building platforms, prioritize those with robust accessibility features.

For hybrid events, consider how in-person activities can be adapted to include remote participants meaningfully. This might involve setting up video stations where remote team members can participate in discussions or games through video conferencing. Having dedicated facilitators who focus specifically on including remote participants can significantly improve their experience.

Gathering Feedback for Continuous Improvement

Creating truly accessible team-building experiences is an ongoing process that benefits from feedback from all team members. Anonymous pre-event surveys asking about accommodation needs can help you plan more effectively while respecting privacy concerns. These surveys should include open-ended questions about specific needs rather than making assumptions.

After your retreat, gather feedback specifically about accessibility and inclusion. What worked well? What could be improved? This information is invaluable for planning future events. 

Establish regular check-ins throughout longer retreats to address any emerging accessibility concerns. Having a designated point person responsible for addressing accommodation needs during the event ensures issues can be resolved quickly.

The Expert Event Planners at Frogbridge Events Can Help Plan Your Company Retreat

At Frogbridge Events, our event planners can help plan your next company retreat and help you organize an event for all your attendees, including all team members, regardless of their special needs. We can customize an event designed just for you on our 86-acre resort, which highlights the beauty and natural wonder of all that the Garden State has to offer.

Whether you are planning for a small group or for a larger crowd, our event planners can find the activities and settings chosen just for you. Call us at (609) 208-9475 or fill out a contact form to get started.

Coworker on wheelchair

The Importance of Considering Accessibility When Planning a Corporate Retreat

One of the most overlooked problems in planning corporate retreats is considering accessibility. Businesses are required to take accessibility into account to accommodate employees with specific needs. However, they often forget to include those accommodations when planning events. Not only can this be a legal or ethical problem, but it can also undermine the goal of bringing everyone together at the corporate event. 

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to resolve. All you have to do is implement accessibility guidelines in the event based on your employees’ and company’s needs. Here is a deeper look at the importance of considering accessibility when planning a corporate retreat. 

What Does Accessibility for Events Mean?

Accessibility for events means that event planners should consider the needs of people with disabilities when planning an event. This includes creating a checklist to make sure that all different types of disabilities are taken into consideration and providing necessary accommodations. An accessible event is one in which people with disabilities can participate fully, meaning they have access to the same resources and services as everyone else. 

To create an accessible event, planners must be aware of different types of disabilities and use this knowledge to provide appropriate accommodation. Event planners should also make sure they are aware of any relevant laws or regulations regarding accessibility so they can ensure their event is compliant and everyone attending is safe and comfortable.

Why Is Providing Accessibility During Your Event Important?

Providing accessibility during an event is essential to ensure that individuals with disabilities can participate in the event. By addressing accessibility issues and meeting the accessibility needs of those with disabilities, organizers can create an inclusive environment that allows everyone to participate and be involved. Accessibility includes providing physical access to the event venue, offering information in accessible formats, providing sign language interpreters, and more. 

It is also important to provide trained staff who are knowledgeable about disability-related issues to ensure that individuals with disabilities feel welcomed and supported. Providing accessibility during events shows respect for all individuals, regardless of their ability level. It also helps create a safe space for everyone to connect, share ideas, and foster meaningful relationships.

What Kind of Accommodations Are Best for Corporate Retreats?

Providing accessibility during an event is essential because it ensures that individuals with disabilities are not excluded. Accessibility involves making sure all attendees have equal opportunity to enjoy the event and its services, regardless of any disability or accessibility issue they may have. Every individual should be given the chance to participate without having to worry about accessibility needs. This can include providing assistive technology, accessible seating, and proper signage. 

Moreover, it’s important to consider how individuals with disabilities may be impacted by loud noises, bright lights, and other factors that could affect their experience negatively. By providing accessibility during your event, you can ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience regardless of their individual abilities.

Accessible Event Planning Guidelines

Accessible event planning is essential in ensuring an inclusive and accommodating atmosphere for guests with disabilities. When planning an accessible event, event planners should provide access to all aspects of the event, including captioning, sign language interpreters, and accessible seating. It is also important to ask guests upfront if they have any special accommodation needs and provide them with information on how to request additional services that may be needed. 

Additionally, for those who are hard of hearing please contact a local sign language interpreter for assistance. By following these guidelines, event planners can ensure that their events are fully inclusive and accessible to all attendees. An inclusive event provides attendees with a sense of inclusion and belonging that can be beneficial to everyone involved.

Proactive Accessible Event Checklist

Creating an accessible event is a proactive process that involves creating a checklist of accessibility considerations. This checklist should include accommodation for individuals with disabilities, providing captioning, properly equipping the event venue, and ensuring the presenter is accessible. It is also important to ensure any larger events are physically accessible by providing ramps, elevators, and proper seating arrangements. 

An event checklist that incorporates these considerations can help ensure an accessible event for all participants. Furthermore, it is essential to put in place a system that allows individuals with disabilities to easily make requests or reservations for special accommodations. Ultimately, this will help ensure the success of an event by making sure individuals with disabilities have access to the same experiences as everyone else.

Avoid Event Planning Mistakes With Professional Help

There is a lot of forethought and coordination that goes into the planning of corporate events. The easiest way to avoid planning mistakes is to get professional help from a company like Frogbridge Events.

We work with companies to plan and execute corporate events that align with their goals and wow their attendees. Years of experience mean we know what the worst event planning mistakes are and how to easily avoid them. Work with Frogbridge Events by calling us at (609) 208-9475 to plan a more accessible corporate event that everyone can enjoy.

Excellent place for events of any kind.
– Xavier V.