Blog

BLOG

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.

How to Host a Corporate Game Night

Hosting a game night for your company event is an excellent way to get your employees engaged and have some fun. To start, you’ll need to choose games that suit the group size and dynamics as part of the corporate event. Depending on the size of your company, you may want to select a few team-based board games that can accommodate larger groups, or you can opt for a more intimate card or trivia game. Themed invitations can help get your guests excited about the event and ensure they understand the preparations required.

For some ideas on how to host a game night for your next company event, here are some guidelines to get started.

Benefits of Hosting a Game Night for a Company Event

Hosting a game night for a company event can be a great way to boost morale and encourage teamwork. It’s also an effective way to increase engagement among employees and help them build relationships outside of the workplace. Games like trivia, charades, or even simple board games can provide a fun and entertaining atmosphere while helping employees get to know each other better.

When planning how to host a game night, it’s important to choose activities that are suitable for all ages and abilities. You may also want to consider providing refreshments and snacks as part of the event so that everyone can enjoy themselves without feeling too full or too hungry. 

Hosting a game night for your company event is sure to bring people together in a unique way, creating memories and fostering collaboration among employees. Such events can turn into a memorable night filled with fun, laughter, and friendly competition.

Planning and Preparation

Decide on a Date and Time

Deciding on a date and time for your game night is crucial to ensure all your guests can attend. Consider scheduling the event on a weekend or a weekday evening when most people are free. Make sure to give your guests enough notice so they can clear their schedules. You can use online calendars or social media to poll your guests and find a date and time that works for everyone. This way, you can ensure that your game night is well-attended and that everyone is excited to join in on the fun.

Create a Guest List

Creating a guest list is essential to plan a successful game night. Consider the number of guests you can accommodate in your space and the type of games you want to play. Make sure to include a diverse group of people with different interests and preferences. You can also consider inviting friends, family, or coworkers to make the event more enjoyable. A well-thought-out guest list ensures that your game night is dynamic and engaging, with a mix of personalities that will make the evening more fun for everyone.

Send Out Invitations

Sending out invitations is a crucial step in planning a game night. You can use digital invitations or traditional paper invitations, depending on your preference. Make sure to include all the essential details, such as the date, time, location, and dress code. You can also include a list of games you plan to play and ask your guests to RSVP. Clear and detailed invitations help set the tone for the event and ensure that your guests know what to expect, making your game night a hit from the start.

Choosing a Venue for Your Company’s Game Night

When it comes to hosting a game night for your company event, you may be wondering how to choose the right venue. It is important to consider the amount of space needed, budget, and what type of games will be played. If you are looking for a larger location, you should look at venues such as community centers or bars. These locations usually offer more room with varying levels of cost depending on the day and time.

If your game night is more intimate, then you could rent out a private room at a restaurant or cafe. This type of space will provide a comfortable atmosphere with plenty of space to play games without feeling cramped. Anywhere that has plenty of tables and seating options would be ideal for this kind of event.

Clear Off the Coffee Table and Set Up Seating

Clearing off the coffee table and setting up seating is essential to create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for your game night. Remove any clutter or decorations that may obstruct the playing area. Set up chairs, couches, or tables to accommodate your guests. Consider setting up different stations for different games to keep the event organized and fun. A well-organized space ensures that everyone can focus on enjoying the games and each other’s company, making your game night a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.

Selecting Games and Trivia Game for a Company Game Night

There are many things you need to consider when selecting the right games for your company game night. First, think about the size of your group and the types of people that will be attending. This will help you determine what type of games you should select. Make sure to choose something that everyone will enjoy and find engaging.

Next, think about how long the event will last and what is the optimal length for each game so that it doesn’t drag on too long. Try to pick games that are simple enough to learn quickly but have enough depth to keep people entertained throughout the entire game night. Fast-paced games can add an extra layer of excitement and keep the energy high. One exciting option to consider is the American roulette online game. With its iconic spinning wheel and betting options, it adds a touch of glamour and suspense to any game night. Plus, with its straightforward rules, players can quickly grasp the basics and start enjoying the game. Including a variety of party games can also ensure that everyone has a great time and fosters a sense of community.

Include Decorations and Refreshments

Decorations and refreshments can be an important part of the planning. Depending on your budget, decorations can range from simple streamers and balloons to themed tablecloths and custom centerpieces. Refreshments can be as simple as pre-made snacks and soft drinks, such as chips, pretzels, popcorn, and soda. For larger events, catering is always an option. Consider finger foods like mini quiches, sliders, sandwiches, and wraps that are easy to eat while socializing or playing games.

Creating Inclusive Game Options for All Participants

When planning your corporate game night, ensuring all employees can participate regardless of physical abilities or personal preferences is essential. A successful game night accommodates everyone and creates an environment where each person feels valued and included. Encourage participants to bring their favorite game to add a personal touch and ensure everyone has something they enjoy.

Consider offering a variety of game types that appeal to different personalities. While extroverts might enjoy performance-based games like charades or Pictionary, introverts might prefer strategy games or team-based puzzles where they can contribute without being in the spotlight.

Digital games can provide accessibility options for employees with physical limitations. Many modern board games also have digital versions that offer customizable interfaces. Additionally, pair games require different skills – some may need physical dexterity while others rely on verbal or analytical abilities – so everyone has opportunities to showcase their strengths.

Structuring Your Game Night for Maximum Engagement

The flow and structure of your game night can significantly impact its success. Rather than simply setting up games and letting employees choose, consider creating a more organized approach that enhances participation and enjoyment.

Start with an icebreaker game that gets everyone comfortable and engaged. These quick, low-pressure activities help employees transition from work mode to a more relaxed social setting. After icebreakers, move to team-building games that encourage collaboration among departments or teams that don’t typically work together.

Consider structuring the night as a tournament or rotation system where small groups cycle through different game stations. This approach ensures everyone experiences various games and interacts with different colleagues. Set clear time limits for each game or rotation to maintain energy and interest. Games like Taboo and Mafia are often the most fun for social gatherings, contributing to a lively atmosphere.

Including brief breaks between game sections allows for natural networking and conversation. These informal moments often prove as valuable as the structured activities for team building. End the night with a finale game that brings everyone together, creating a shared experience to conclude the event.

Incorporating Technology into Game Night

Technology offers exciting possibilities for modern corporate game nights. Digital game options can complement traditional games and provide unique experiences for your team. Consider using platforms like Kahoot or Quizizz for custom company trivia contests that can test knowledge about your organization’s history, products, or industry in an entertaining format.

Virtual reality (VR) game stations can serve as a novel attraction, especially for tech-oriented companies. Even with just a few headsets, you can create a rotation where employees can experience immersive gaming. Video game consoles with multiplayer games like Mario Kart or team-based games can also appeal to gamers and non-gamers alike.

For remote or hybrid teams, consider how to make the game night accessible to virtual participants. Platforms like Jackbox Games allow for remote participation through smartphones, creating an inclusive experience regardless of location. 

Measuring Success and Gathering Feedback

After your corporate game night concludes, gather feedback to improve future events. This information proves invaluable for planning more effective team-building activities. Create a simple anonymous survey asking participants about their favorite games, suggestions for future events, and overall experience.

Pay attention to both quantitative metrics (attendance rates, participation levels) and qualitative feedback (enjoyment levels, team connection). Observe which games generated the most excitement and engagement, and note any that may have fallen flat.

Consider establishing a planning committee for future events that includes representatives from different departments. This approach ensures diverse perspectives and builds ownership across the organization. Document successful elements and areas for improvement to create a playbook for future game nights.

Customizing Board Games to Reflect Company Culture

Create more meaningful experiences by customizing games to reflect your company’s values, inside jokes, or industry knowledge. This personalization makes the event more relevant and engaging for your team members.

Consider modifying classic games with company-specific content. For example, transform Jeopardy or Family Feud with categories and questions related to your industry or organization. Create a company-themed scavenger hunt with clues related to company milestones or products.

Develop team challenges that mirror workplace scenarios in a fun context. These activities can reinforce problem-solving skills in a relaxed environment while still connecting to daily work. Custom card games featuring company terminology or trivia can serve as both entertainment and subtle reinforcement of important company information.

Make Game Night a Hit With Help from Frogbridge Events

Game night can be a hit if you plan it right, but you may need help planning events. Making corporate events work the way that you want them to can be surprisingly tricky. Fortunately, you can get help from professionals so that your corporate events are perfect every time.

At Frogbridge Events, we specialize in planning corporate events. We take your event ideas and goals and turn them into an event that your staff won’t forget. Before you start planning your next event, give us a call at (609) 208-9475 or fill out a contact form so we can help you get all of the details right.

A Guide to Making Your Next Company Retreat More Accessible

Company retreats are a great way to get people out of the office and into a creative and collaborative space. But if you’re planning a company retreat, it’s also important to make sure that it’s accessible to all members of your team.

With the right planning, you can ensure that your next company retreat is accessible to everyone and that every member of your team can enjoy the experience. Also, if you need further help planning an inclusive retreat, Frogbridge Events is here to assist or answer any questions you may have.

How to Make Your Company Retreat More Accessible

Here are some strategies for making your next company retreat more accessible so that all members of your team can benefit from the experience. 

Know Who You’re Inviting

As you start planning your next company retreat, keep in mind the people that you are inviting. Do you plan to invite the whole company or is it a retreat for just one department? This will dictate the venue size. Also, be mindful of the accommodations that the people you’re inviting need. For instance, if a team member uses a wheelchair, you will want to opt for inclusive activities instead.

You may find out that some staff members that do not need any accommodations at work may have other limitations for activities outside of their usual duties. When sending out emails about the upcoming retreat or invitations, you can also let attendees know who to contact if they need any special accommodations.

Ask for Team Member Input

You can also get team members involved in the planning of the retreat so they can express any concerns or preferences with you before you finalize the schedule. Perhaps you can decide on a group of possible activities and send out a poll to the group to see which ones they would like to participate in at the retreat. This way, you can create a retreat based on what attendees want to do. 

Not all accessibility concerns center around wheelchair ramps and ADA compliance. Some staff members might not be comfortable with loud noises or heights. Without finding this out in advance, you wouldn’t necessarily know this when planning your retreat. Ultimately, you want to plan a retreat team members want to attend. Involving them by soliciting input can improve engagement and make it more accessible.

Check for Accessible Hotels

If your retreat includes an overnight stay, be sure to ask hotels about their own accessibility accommodations. Most hotels will abide by and comply with ADA standards. However, it is always a smart idea to verify that ADA-compliant rooms will be available to your team, if needed, when you book the stay.

Make the Event More Accessible

Retreats often require temporary structures, such as gazebos and tents. Fortunately, there are ways to make temporary events more accessible. For example, if your company retreat will have staff members from around the globe attending, it is possible that there could be language barriers that could prohibit full participation. You could have an interpreter available at the event to facilitate communication and participation for all team members.

Also, if your event will have temporary structures, it’s important that there are accessibility ramps where needed, along with ample space between chairs, tables, and other items to allow ample room for a wheelchair to pass through. While permanent structures and buildings may have accessibility features such as an elevator and ramps, you may need to ensure that temporary structures do too.

Recruit a Team of Event Planning Experts at Frogbridge Events

Event planning can be a difficult process if you are trying to incorporate new ideas and make adjustments for a broader audience. Fortunately, you can get help from a team of event planning experts who have plenty of experience creating more accessible company retreats. 

At Frogbridge Events, we work with companies to plan their retreats while focusing on their main goals and making each event accessible to their audience. Let us work with you to plan a company retreat that is right for all of your participants. Call us at (609) 208-9475 or use our contact form to discuss your next event.

Remote Companies: How They Benefit From Corporate Retreats

Remote companies are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to create a more flexible and cost-effective work environment. However, remote companies face unique challenges that many traditional companies don’t have to worry about, such as communication, collaboration, and culture. Corporate retreats can help alleviate these challenges and provide a platform for remote companies to work together and build relationships. 

Corporate retreats can also help remote companies develop shared values, establish clear goals, and create better collaboration between team members. Frogbridge Events can help provide an excellent opportunity for remote companies to come together and create a cohesive team that is ready to tackle any challenge.

How Do Remote Companies Benefit from Corporate Retreats? 

There are multiple ways that remote companies can benefit from a retreat, such as:

Form Stronger Workplace Connections

Work retreats can be a great way to bring your remote employees together and help form a stronger workplace connection. Team retreats give members the opportunity to socialize and have some face time with each other, something that is often lost when working from home. By encouraging employees to come together in person, it can help create an environment for brainstorming ideas and team-building activities.

Build a Healthy Workplace Culture

A work retreat also allows for company culture to be further developed and nurtured. Especially now after the COVID-19 pandemic, where most of us are still stuck in our personal lives at home, retreats offer a much needed change of scenery and the chance to connect with colleagues without having to worry about the pressures of working from home. 

In addition, it’s a great way to reward employees for their hard work and dedication by giving them the chance to escape their day-to-day duties while still being able to stay connected with their teams. Retreats intend to provide employees with an opportunity to relax and recharge their batteries after the stresses of the workweek.

Host Fun Activities to Foster Camaraderie

Corporate retreats typically involve fun activities such as hikes, zip lines, scavenger hunts, and other creative initiatives that bring out everyone’s competitive spirit. The goal is to create a sense of camaraderie among team members as well as build trust with leaders so everyone can work more effectively when they return to their day-to-day roles. 

Encourage Innovation

Attending a company retreat can be a great way for employees to collaborate in person, build relationships, and explore creative solutions to workplace issues. By providing an opportunity for employees to come together and share their knowledge in an informal setting, companies can also benefit from increased innovation and new ideas that may not have been explored otherwise.

Working together in new environments often forces teams out of their comfort zones and encourages them to think outside of the box when it comes to solving problems or coming up with creative solutions. Some positive outcomes of corporate retreats include increased team morale, improved communication, increased productivity, and better problem-solving skills.

Help Remote and Dispersed Teams Bond

Face-to-face retreats are a great way for remote teams to come together and bond. A company retreat is an important first step in creating a strong team dynamic and company culture, especially for startups that are fully remote. By bringing the team together in one physical place, they can discuss their work face-to-face and really get to know each other. This can be especially helpful when working with people in different time zones, as it allows them to build relationships outside of their normal work schedule.

Get the Most Out of Your Corporate Retreats with Frogbridge Events

Going on a retreat to recover, recuperate, and regroup can be a highly effective way of improving relationships within your company. However, the retreat must be planned with patience and care. There are plenty of ways that you could run into issues if you plan the whole thing yourself. Fortunately, you don’t have to do all of your own event planning.

At Frogbridge Events, our goal is to plan events that attendees remember and that also directly align with your company’s goals. We have extensive experience planning a variety of events for corporations. Call us at (609) 208-9475 or use our online contact form to discuss how we can make it easy to plan your next corporate retreat.

6 Ways to Encourage Shy Employees to Participate in Company Activities

Corporate retreats help build your employees’ morale, improve collaboration, and increase productivity in your business. However, you’ll have to find ways to engage all your employees to achieve these benefits, as participation is a key part of the success of any company activity or task. 

Most company events are designed for an engaged workforce, which is fine for extroverts, but not for employees who may have a shy disposition. Unfortunately, shy employees may need help to actively participate in company activities. Frogbridge Events can help you engage all of your employees, along with assisting with any other questions you may have. 

6 Ways to Encourage Shy Employees to Participate in Company Activities

As a business owner or manager, it’s best to know how to get all your employees excited about your events and how to make them comfortable enough to participate. Here are six ways to encourage shy employees to participate in your company’s activities.

1. Host Events They Are Comfortable With

Shy employees are more likely to engage in activities they are familiar with and comfortable with. Therefore, when planning a corporate retreat, you should ask all your employees what they might want to do so that you can choose accessible activities that everyone can enjoy and excel in.

It’s also important to involve your shy employees in the planning process. Let them make crucial decisions like the event format, time, location, and catering. A person is more likely to participate in company activities they planned themselves. Additionally, you should take time to understand situations that make your shy employees feel threatened and provide better alternatives. The goal is to ensure company activities meet the needs of all employees, including shy ones.

2. Create a Safe Environment

Your company events should also have different ways for employees to be engaged. Rather than forcing employees to participate in things they are uncomfortable with, provide options so that all employees can contribute in a way that’s most comfortable for them. When shy employees feel more in control, they’ll overcome their fears and feel more confident when participating in an activity of their choice.

Giving them choices creates a safe environment for them to overcome their fears and have fun. The more opportunities shy employees have to engage, the more comfortable they will be participating in company activities.

3. Limit Group Members

Team-based activities are a great way of making your company retreats memorable and enjoyable. However, some shy employees may have difficulty participating in crowded environments. Therefore, when sorting your employees into teams, you’d want to limit the number of participants in them. This will encourage all the team members to participate in the given activities.

When creating teams, assign shy employees to colleagues they are most comfortable working with. Having familiar faces around them allows them to thrive, have fun, and enjoy the opportunity altogether. Alternatively, you can simply allow them to choose their team partners. Team building activities featuring smaller groups of people foster collaboration and allow the shyer members to break out of their shell.

4. Share the Plans in Advance

Quiet people don’t like surprises and usually feel intimidated when suddenly put into the spotlight. They need time and space to prepare and plan for things, rather than deal with surprises. Therefore, throwing new activities at them may significantly discourage them from participating. Share the agenda in advance of whatever company activities you plan on doing so that your shy employees can mentally prepare themselves for the big day.

You should keep them informed as much as possible and let them know in case of any changes. When the day comes, they will be well-prepared and ready to engage in the activities planned for the retreat.

5. Use Incentives

Incentives can help encourage almost every employee, including the shy ones, to participate and feel motivated. By incorporating incentives such as gift cards, movie tickets, free meals, and coffee mugs in your company event, you’ll not only bring them to the event, but also encourage them to engage.

You should ensure that the incentives align with what your employees care about. This ensures that you select an incentive that shy employees find truly motivating, which may involve some research and planning. 

6. Foster Cooperative Competition

Sometimes your shy employees need a little push to get out of their comfort zone. Therefore, your company retreat should include engaging and competitive activities to motivate and inspire your employees to achieve certain goals. This creates a healthy competition that allows your employees to encourage each other, achieve milestones and celebrate successes.

Many people enjoy activities that allow them to win and outdo others. Therefore, as positive peer pressure and polite competitiveness take over, your employees will be more motivated to participate in company activities.

Contact an Experienced Corporate Event Planner at Frogbridge Events

Participating in company activities can be a huge challenge for shy employees. They tend to feel more uncomfortable in various social circumstances and are mostly seen as actively disengaged employees. However, you can engage them by planning an introvert-friendly retreat. That’s why you should let corporate event planning experts at Frogbridge Events handle everything for you.

We have the facilities to help you create a welcoming experience for all your employees. Call us today at (609) 208-9475 or contact us online to talk with one of our event planning experts to learn how we can simplify your retreats and encourage employee participation.

How to Prevent Alienating Anyone During a Corporate Retreat

A corporate retreat can bring many benefits to an organization, from building a robust and cohesive culture to improving overall performance. However, one of the potential challenges to having an effective corporate retreat is alienation. Alienation happens when employees feel isolated from the activities at the retreat and their colleagues. This disconnection causes a feeling of meaninglessness and distances your employees from the objective of the retreat.

Alienation can significantly affect a corporate retreat, making it less effective. Therefore, employers must take various steps to prevent this from happening. Frogbridge Events can help you figure out ways you can avoid alienating anyone during a corporate retreat, along with anything else you need during the planning process.

How Can You Prevent Alienating Anyone During a Retreat? 

Employees often feel alienated when they are not free to approach their bosses. Rather than acting as if you’re above the workforce, approach your employees and engage in one-on-one conversations with them. You should maintain open communication, consider their feelings, and regularly check in with everybody. 

Remember also to find ways to address any concerns that might arise during the retreat. Building closer relationships with your employees will create an atmosphere of safety and trust. There are also many other ways to make sure you don’t alienate your employees at a retreat.

Involve Everyone in Making Decisions

Corporate retreats are opportunities to bring your employees together so that they can have a great time. Therefore, you should make them feel like they own the event. Keeping them in the dark and making decisions without their input creates alienation. Consider everyone’s suggestions when making crucial retreat decisions, which will help make your employees feel included.

Encourage Team-Building Activities

Without team-building activities during a corporate retreat, your employees may feel bored, disinterested, and isolated. Team bonding activities allow workers to interact with each other and foster good working relationships. Therefore, you should incorporate time for engaging activities such as team-building games.

You should also allow free time so your teams can converse naturally. Remember to keep introverts in mind when designing group activities to avoid alienating them. Prioritizing meaningful interactions ensures everyone participates in the company’s activities.

Respond to Each Employee’s Contributions

Employees feel isolated when their contributions are not acknowledged. Work retreats give the staff a chance to build confidence. Therefore, making them feel powerless could significantly affect them. They may have great ideas that could spice up the retreat, but since they cannot implement them, they may feel separate and not part of the team.

Appreciate every person’s contributions and encourage them to take on new responsibilities like planning part of the retreat’s activities. This will boost their self-esteem, crank up creativity, and make them feel part of this life-changing experience.

Respect Their Boundaries

Acknowledge that you have different employees with different personalities. Forcing your workers to do things they don’t want to during a retreat pushes them further away and creates a sense of fear. Refrain from making sarcastic statements, as they undermine trust. Respecting your employee’s boundaries will prevent them from feeling isolated and undermined.

People who are afraid are less likely to revel in the retreat experience, which undermines the purpose of the retreat. Encourage employees to respect and embrace each other so that everyone is comfortable and open to a new adventure.

Avoid Playing Favorites

Playing favorites with a section of your employees will make the others feel left out. Give all your employees equal opportunities, and avoid giving special attention or treatment to specific employees during a corporate retreat. Instead, appreciate and encourage everyone to have a good time.

Paying equal attention to all your members will encourage them to actively engage in company activities. Everyone will feel more comfortable around one another when none of their colleagues are treated much better.

Make Sure the Venue is Welcoming

Another critical factor in having an all-inclusive corporate retreat is choosing the right venue. You should select a venue with fun activities and amenities to cater to your varying employee needs. Frogbridge Events and our venue is welcoming to any and all companies wanting to have a retreat for their employees, and we can help with any planning questions you may have as well. 

Let Our Professional Event Planners at Frogbridge Events Help You Plan an Enjoyable Retreat

If not well-planned and managed, a corporate retreat may frustrate your employees and make them feel alienated. That’s why when planning your next retreat, it’s best to hire skilled event planners at Frogbridge Events who understand the ins and outs of running events.

With many years of experience, our corporate event planners can manage all aspects of your company outing. We can help you create a one-of-a-kind retreat with fun options for all your employees. Call us today at (609) 208-9475 or contact us online to learn how our experts can help you make your retreat an enjoyable one for everyone.

Budget-Friendly Retreat Ideas for Non-Profits

Your team has worked diligently to fulfill your mission all year, from doing weekly food drops to even participating in early morning car washes in order to fundraise. The majority of your non-profit’s budget is allotted to your programs, but you still want a day to celebrate the people who make your organization’s mission possible and keep up the morale for future successes. Your team needs to feel appreciated and have the opportunity to provide feedback so your organization may continue to grow. 

With a little time and effort, you can trade in your next quarterly meeting for an organization-wide retreat that focuses on your team and do so without breaking the bank. 

3 Fun Retreat Ideas That Won’t Break The Bank

A retreat is a great way for a non-profit organization to relax, regroup, restrategize, and also plan their fundraising goals for the rest of their fiscal year. It does not have to be too expensive but can still be fun, celebratory, and productive! Here are some foolproof ways to host a budget-friendly retreat:

Company Picnic

As the saying goes, the way to people’s hearts is through their stomachs. Treat your own team to an outdoor company picnic. Enjoying a communal meal outside while discussing the non-profit’s goals and strategies is a relaxing and effective way to spend the day while still focusing on your company’s mission. 

If you are really tracking this year’s budget, make the picnic a potluck and have everyone bring their favorite side dish to share with others and enjoy! Additionally, many donors might be interested in sponsoring the lunch. 

Physical Activity 

Balancing all the responsibilities that come with a non-profit organization can be stressful, and sometimes you just need to shake it off. 

Planning a day outdoors with a game of volleyball or golf included can do wonders for your team’s mood and spirit. If a big game of two-hand touch football doesn’t quite fit the vibe of your organization, that’s fine! You can still get up and leave the desk behind for a day with less physically demanding events like a scavenger hunt or board games. Consider making the games specific to your organization, and personalize each event to optimize the bonding experience. After relieving some stress, the team will be energized to begin strategic planning!

Anything That Is Not The Office

At the end of the day, any activity or event dedicated to your team and their successes will make a difference. Your non-profit organization is composed of committed volunteers and people who have dedicated their lives to your mission. The growth of your organization and fulfillment of your goals is why they are there in the first place. Here are a few free or relatively-inexpensive places to hold a retreat that are not the office: 

  • Local park
  • Library
  • Coffee shop
  • Local restaurants
  • Church

The younger your organization, the less money you have allotted toward your team, and that’s okay. But making sure they feel appreciated and involved in the decision-making process is key, and you can do that from anywhere. 

Let New Jersey’s Frogbridge Events Do The Planning For You

Planning the perfect retreat for your organization can be tough, especially with a budget restraint. Take the stress away and let Frogbridge Events’ dedicated team worry about the details. We plan all of the activities and have an extensive menu to choose from, so all you and your team have to do is relax!

For information today on how to make the most of your retreat day, please call us at (609) 208-9475 or use our online contact form.

3 Creative Retreat Ideas for a Non-Profit Staff

If you’re hoping to foster relationships among your team, strengthen trust, and help generate fresh ideas for projects and initiatives, consider planning a creative retreat for your team. Not only does this provide an opportunity for members of your team to get away from their day-to-day work, but it also allows you and other team members to develop new ideas for projects and initiatives in the future. 

Volunteers, interns, and staff members have different needs when working in a non-profit organization. Because of this, it’s essential to find activities that cater to the interests of everyone in your office. With so many different creative retreat ideas, narrowing down which one will best suit your needs can be challenging. Check out these great ideas for creative retreats that could easily be adapted for your non-profit staff.

What Makes a Good Team Retreat?

A good team retreat for non-profit organizations should allow the team to brainstorm new ideas, escape the everyday grind, and experience something new together. Some great retreat ideas include ropes courses, escape rooms, and other fun activities that help build teamwork and communication skills. Good retreat planning includes ensuring enough time for the team to bond and relax and time to focus on work goals.

Plan a Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Retreat

Consider planning a non-profit retreat that’s sustainable and eco-friendly—planning a non-profit staff retreat that is sustainable means incorporating best practices into the event from start to finish. This includes everything from how the event is marketed, to what type of food and drink is served, to how waste is managed.

Event planners should work with the non-profit leaders to determine the goals for the retreat and then use that as a guide for making decisions about all aspects of the event. For example, if the goal is to build team cohesion, then activities and programming should be designed with that in mind.

It’s also important to think about sustainability when it comes to budgeting for the event. Many non-profits have limited resources, so it’s important to consider how those resources are allocated. One way to do this is to seek sponsorships or partners who can help offset some of the costs associated with the retreat.

By being mindful of sustainability from start to finish, event planners can help create a retreat that is enjoyable for attendees and has a positive impact on the environment.

Plan for an Art Class

If you’re looking for a fun and creative way to add some excitement to your next non-profit retreat, consider offering an art class. It’s a great way to get everyone involved and thinking outside the box. Plus, it’s a great way to support your local artists and businesses. All you need to do is plan and find a reputable instructor.

Invite Family and Play Family-Friendly Games

Planning a family-friendly game during your non-profit retreat can help engage staff members and invite families to participate. Including staff members’ families in the game can create a more fun and relaxed environment for everyone to enjoy.

Get Help Panning a Great Non-profit Retreat

A creative retreat can be a great way to improve performance in your company. The key is ensuring you have access to resources that make the stay enjoyable and productive for staff members. 

Suppose you want to ensure that your next creative retreat is perfect; partner with Frogbridge Events. We are focused on making it easier for companies to plan corporate events. Call  Frogbridge Events at 609-208-9475 to schedule a consultation or contact us here.

How Long Should a Corporate Retreat Be?

A corporate retreat is a getaway that brings together people from different departments, locations, and backgrounds. The goal is to foster collaboration, innovation, and new ideas by immersing participants in an alternate, more relaxed environment. A corporate retreat can be anything from a few team-building activities over the lunch hour to an extended stay in a remote location with limited cell service, no internet access, and no distractions. 

This means it’s up to you to determine how long you want your retreat to be and what activities you include. Here are some general guidelines for planning and executing a corporate retreat and specific ways to adapt traditional concepts to your unique needs.

Determine What Your Goals are for the Retreat

When planning a company retreat, first think about your goals and objectives. What do you want to achieve as a team? What kind of environment do you want to create? Once you have a clear idea of your goals, you can start planning the retreat. Remember that a company retreat differs from a team retreat or a team member retreat. It should be more unstructured and allow for more employee bonding and connection.

Work or Recreation?

When planning a company retreat, deciding whether the focus will be on work or recreation is essential. Different amounts of time can be allocated depending on the company’s needs. However, both should be considered to create a well-rounded experience for employees.

Figure Out How Much Time You Need

First off, decide on the length of your company retreat. Will it be a day trip or an overnight stay? If you’re planning on having an unstructured retreat, consider making it a weekend so your entire team can get away and bond. If you’re worried about losing productivity, consider having your retreat during a slow season or for remote companies, plan it around a holiday. Prioritize getting everyone on the same page and use the time to brainstorm and plan for the future.

The length of the retreat will depend on several factors, including the size of your company and the amount of time you have available. Consider a retreat that lasts several days if you have a large company. If you have a smaller company, a one-day retreat may be sufficient.

Where Will You Have It?

Your retreat location may dictate how long your retreat needs to be. There are several factors to consider, such as whether the retreat will be held indoors or outdoors and whether it will be local or further away. Other considerations include the size of the group and the budget. Once the location is decided, start thinking about activities that will take place during the retreat.

Factor in Transportation Time and Costs

Company retreats are a fantastic way for teams to bond and get to know each other outside the office. However, one downside is that travel time can take away valuable bonding time. If your company retreat is in a remote location, consider booking transportation in advance so your team can relax and enjoy the ride together.

Contact Us for Help Planning Your Corporate Retreat

Planning a corporate retreat can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Getting the length right is just one part of the whole planning process. Fortunately, you can make it easier to plan corporate events by getting help from an event planner. 

Before you start working on your next corporate retreat, call Frogbridge Events at 609-208-9475 or contact us here. We specialize in corporate event planning and can help you get everything for your next event right. 

Best Ways to Incorporate Your Employees’ Interests Into a Company Retreat

Corporate retreats are an effective way to build teams that are better at communicating and collaborating. However, the quality of corporate events hinges on buy-in from the participants. If your employees are not adequately engaged, they won’t want to participate in your event or get any benefit from it. The key to getting employee buy-in is to base the event on their interests. 

Get Your Employees Interested in Your Company Retreat

Here are a few of the best ways to incorporate your employees’ interests in a company retreat:

Ask Your Employees What They Would Like to Do

The most important part of planning your retreat is to find out what your employees want to do. Depending on how long the retreat is and how many employees you have, you can choose a few different methods to conduct this poll.

The best way to get every employee’s opinion is to conduct an online survey. You can also have an open forum meeting, with an anonymous voting system, or host a virtual town hall event.

Let Them Choose the Activities

Once you know what your employees want to do, you can start to plan the activities. You can choose a variety of activities that appeal to a wide range of interests. Keep the activities relevant to your field or business. 

You can use company-related activities as a way to build camaraderie between departments. When choosing activities, make sure they are appropriate for your audience. 

While it’s important to let your employees share what they want, you also need to manage expectations. If a significant number of employees want to go skydiving but that is not a safe activity for a team of employees, you may want to suggest something else.

Go Somewhere They’ll Enjoy

When choosing a destination for your corporate retreat, the most important thing to consider is the interests of your employees. You should also consider how far a wide range of employees can travel without breaking the bank. 

When deciding where to take your corporate retreat, you can choose a location that meets a wide range of interests. One example is taking your company to a sporting event. Sports events are a great way to foster a competitive spirit between departments, especially if you choose a game that has a mixed departmental team. 

Another option is taking your team to a music festival or artistic event. These types of events are perfect for employees who want to experience something new and see new things.

Base the Trip on Something You Can All Enjoy Together

One of the best ways to incorporate your employees’ interests into a company retreat is to base the trip around a shared passion or interest. You can choose to base your trip on a cause your company supports. Taking your employees to a cause that they feel strongly about is a great way to foster a sense of unity and camaraderie among your team members. 

Another way to base the trip on a shared interest is to base the trip on a shared hobby. If you and your employees share a common hobby, you can use the trip as a way to collaborate and build stronger bonds between team members.

Find the Right Partner for Planning Company Retreats

If your employees are not adequately engaged, they won’t want to participate in your event or get any benefit from it. The key to getting employee buy-in is to base the event on their interests. Now that you know what you need to do to make your next company retreat a success, you can focus on having fun and fostering a sense of teamwork and camaraderie between your employees.

Make your next event a massive success by partnering with Frogbridge Events. We specialize in planning events for companies. Call us at (609) 208-9475 or fill out our contact form to schedule a talk with our event planners. 

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