Category: Corporate Event Venue

September 9, 2021

4 Reasons Your Corporate Retreat isn’t Working

Name: Frogbridge Picnics & Events
Address: 7 Yellow Meetinghouse Rd, Millstone, NJ, 08510, US
Telephone: (609) 208-9475
Price range: Varies

Corporate retreats are a way for companies to gather their employees for an off-site get-away for collaboration and team-building activities. Unfortunately, this eutopic idea that taking everyone to a resort will automatically create a better work environment is only but a dream. All too often, corporate retreats fail to deliver on their intentions, and the horror stories from the retreat circulate the office for years to come.

4 Reasons Why Your Corporate Retreats Hasn’t Worked

If you are wondering why your corporate retreat didn’t create an immediate outcome of a happy-go-lucky team, the reasons below may offer you some insights on what went wrong with your corporate retreat.

No Strategies or Tactics

Fun activities tend to be the primary objective of corporate retreats. However, without having clear strategies or tactics that will target business objectives around topics such as the company’s culture or mission, “fun” activities will fall short and many people won’t even care about participating.

For a retreat to bring a team together, clear objectives have to be defined with strategies that will clarify company goals. By facilitating seminars where people can learn new topics and collaborate with peers, teams have a better opportunity to engage with increased morale and motivation.

Real Problems Aren’t Addressed

Every business has internal issues that affect the productivity and the dynamic of the team. If these problems aren’t addressed and solutions are not worked on, the elephant in the room will only grow larger and become more uncomfortable, affecting company culture and even profits.

A company retreat can be a great opportunity to find creative solutions to tackle the challenging problems that are in the business. Interactive workshops where everyone is sharing and learning from one another can be a great benefit and create positive feedback.

The Bosses Don’t Show Up

When company retreats mainly entail fun activities or the overall vibe screams vacation, all too often the managers of the company will see it as a day off or don’t think their participation is necessary. This leaves employees feeling like their bosses don’t care, and fuels the fire of a burning company retreat.

For engagement and team building, all company managers and leaders should be involved in the planning and preparation of a company retreat. Since leaders set the tone of the business, their engagement is imperative to support company objectives to improve the culture and the mission at hand.

More Socializing Than Team Building

If a company retreat is at a five-star resort and activities are optional, chances are most of the employees will be taking the time to enjoy a paid vacation. In addition, cliques or circles of friends that already exist in the organization will continue to exclude others, impeding on any chance of team building.

Instead, a company retreat can have activities where employees can learn more about one another and engage with other departments to develop additional work relationships.

Plan an Unforgettable Corporate Retreat in New Jersey at Frogbridge Events

Your next corporate retreat can be fun and provide a beneficial experience that will keep everyone engaged. Offering outdoor retreats and interactive activities, Frogbridge Events has the perfect packages to boost team building and motivation within your organization. To book your next corporate retreat with us, contact us here or call (609) 208-9050.

Joanna Brooks

August 25, 2021

6 Reasons Team Building Events Really Work

Just as your company may invest in new products, a new location, or onboarding, investing in team building with your employees can benefit your company in more ways than one. When most people are told they will be partaking in team building activities, it causes them to roll their eyes thinking about all the trust falls they will surely be doing. However, the truth is that team building is crucial to the growth and strength of your employees. Frogbridge Events offers the perfect venue for corporate events like team building or company retreats to take place, offering a spacious location for you and your team to grow and learn about one another.

What Are the Benefits of Team Building Events?

Team building events do not have to be like the awkward events you have seen carried out on television shows like The Office or Parks and Recreation. Team building is not only beneficial to getting closer with your employees, but it can also be a fun chance to get to know them on a deeper level than just talking about weekend plans or the weather. The following reasons are why you should look into booking a day at Frogbridge Events to host a team building event of your own.

Get to Know Each Other

Team building events offer a unique opportunity for employees to mingle outside of the office walls. Without the pressure of meeting the day’s deadlines, it is a perfect setting for networking and mingling that can help strengthen the team. When there are deeper relationships formed within a team, coworkers are more likely to work better together, which helps with the overall workflow.

Boost Team Performance

Partaking in team building activities helps a company learn new techniques to tackle projects together in the workplace. While it may seem like getting through an obstacle course while blindfolded does not have much to do with your daily work, it may surprise you that the skills you learn in these team building sessions can carry over into the office.

Competition

Be honest, when there is a prize involved, you are far more likely to put in the effort. When thinking of activity ideas for your next team building event, consider a competition aspect with a prize to be won. Adding this component will increase productivity during the event and in the workplace.

Team Spirit

Employees who are excited and celebrate the company they work for are more likely to stick around and work harder. Team building events provide the opportunity for fun and excitement and for your employees to build admiration for the company and its mission statement.

Fostering Creativity

When a group of intelligent and hard-working individuals gather, new ideas are bound to hatch. Having an out-of-office opportunity for your employees to talk and share ideas and discoveries they have made provides for the chance to develop new strategies or projects at work.

Communication

Communication is vital in any team. Team building events plant the roots for that communication that may not have been there before. Many employees can get stuck in their own world, sitting at their desks all day. Still, with a team building event, they are forced out of their bubble and into conversations with coworkers they may have never spoken to otherwise.

Host Your Team Building Event at New Jersey Outdoor Resort

Team building events are integral to your company’s growth and are something you should invest in to grow and build trust among your employees. At Frogbridge Events, your next corporate event can be beneficial and fun.

Frogbridge Events is the perfect place to provide an exciting and unforgettable experience to your employees with all-inclusive resort access to different activities and refreshments. To book your next team building event with us, contact us here or call (609) 208-9475.

Joanna Brooks

August 11, 2021

Accessible Outdoor Corporate Events for Wheelchair Users

When you’re planning a corporate event, you’ll want to make sure that all your employees can have fun and socialize, and part of this process is ensuring that everyone can participate. For instance, some events do not provide accessible alternatives for team members who have disabilities and use wheelchairs. For wheelchair users or individuals who use other mobility devices, not participating in these corporate events is isolating and creates a rift in their relationship with the business.

We want to make sure that everyone has a great time, so scheduling events that are accessible for those with disabilities is essential. Holding a company event where all your employees can meet new people and strengthen current bonds is beneficial for your company and its environment.

5 Outdoor Corporate Activities Accessible for Wheelchair Users

You may not be aware of all the exciting and engaging activities that make accommodations for people with disabilities. With accessibility and inclusion a more widespread concern, many parks and outdoor recreation centers are prioritizing creating areas of accessibility. Here are some of our favorite inclusive outdoor activities that are perfect for your corporate event.

Wheelchair Accessible Hiking

Many parks are creating accessible trails for wheelchair users. These are great for an enjoyable outdoor adventure, but make sure you discuss this with your team members in case other contributing factors might make the event uncomfortable for them.

Paddle Boarding or Kayaking

Whether you have a lake, river, or ocean, paddle boarding and kayaking offer great independent opportunities for everyone to have fun. Some of the equipment offers wheelchair users the ability to strap in and feel comfortable and safe on the water.

Boating

An excellent opportunity for bonding and exploring nature is boat tours. There’s something for everyone on a boat tour, from searching for dolphins out at sea to spotting alligators in the swamps. Not only will all your employees feel safe, but they find something they’ve never experienced before.

Camping

Roasting marshmallows by the fire and reminiscing old memories is a surreal experience. Not only will it bring your employees closer together, but it will also allow for everyone to create a lasting memory. Many campgrounds offer accessible trails and walkways for wheelchair users.

Local Park Games

One of the classic accessible outdoor activities is planning team games at a local park. There’s so much you can do with an open field and a few items. Try creating a scavenger hunt with exciting prizes for the winning team.

Corporate events are social parties that provide you with the opportunity to show your workers how much they mean to you and the business. Making sure your employees with disabilities are comfortable and included is what makes a strong leader and a great company.

Contact Frogbridge Events for Accessible Outdoor Corporate Events

If you’re looking for an incredible outdoor company event accessible for wheelchair users and other mobility devices, look to Frogbridge Events. Located in Millstone Township, NJ, we offer various outdoor activities accessible to all individuals. With natural lakeside picnic areas and water sports, our team works to make sure your corporate event is unforgettable.

If your organization is interested in a memorable and inclusive event, call (609) 208-9475 or fill out our online contact form.

Joanna Brooks

April 9, 2021

6 Ideas to Make Your Corporate Picnic a Summer Tradition

Company retreats are a great way to keep your team fresh, happy, and vitalized as they get a chance to build chemistry and blow off steam. While everyone loves R&R, there are a few key points that ensure summer events become a hit with your people and a memorable staple in your corporate culture.

Cook Up Crowd Pleasers

It wouldn’t be a picnic without a great spread for everyone to enjoy. While many will be looking for summer favorites like burgers or hot dogs on the grill, it’s important to account for different diets and preferences on your team. Ensure that kosher, halal, vegetarian, vegan, allergy-conscious, and gluten-free options are provided to make everyone feel welcome in the fun. An inclusive environment is perhaps the most important thing to consider when planning events.

If you’re looking to switch things up a little, throw a themed twist on the menu. With options like barbeque, clam bakes, taco bars, specialty desserts, and more, Frogbridge has the variety to keep your team satisfied and coming back for seconds all day long.

Poolside Fun to Beat the Heat

It’s always good to get out in the sun, and having open water nearby is perfect for those hot summer days. Being able to dive in and cool off keeps people refreshed and relaxed.

Being near the water opens up all kinds of other activities, from taking kayaks and pedal boats out to fishing. If your event is for the whole family, pools and lakes are surefire ways to make sure the kids are entertained too.

Classic Games Add Team-Building to Any Event

While traditional team-building exercises are proven methods of nurturing camaraderie on your team, setting up sports events gets your people working together with ease. Whether it’s a laid-back game or the competitive juices get flowing, a day of sun, food, and sport can bring everyone closer together.

Games like volleyball, basketball, soccer, or wiffleball bring people closer by putting them in a fun, collaborative environment where they work together to achieve a mutual goal. It’s also a good way to blow off steam as a group and work off some calories.

Throwback Activities to Bring Out the Kid in Everyone

There’s nothing like good old-fashioned nostalgia to put smiles on faces. Games people may have completely forgotten about like dodgeball were gym-class and birthday-party favorites back in the day. They’re quality entertainment for the whole family or just the grownups.

Either way, activities like this are sure to evoke childlike joy and can be great ice-breakers so that your team can really get to know each other on a personal level outside the workplace.

Recreational Games for Laid-Back Fun

To balance out some of the more active games, have activities that require a little less energy, with all the same benefits. This is also a good way to make sure everyone is included and can find their good times throughout the day. Think about how much your people could enjoy lawn games like bocce ball, horseshoe, and minigolf.

Fun for the Whole Family

If you are leaning toward inviting families along, find things to keep their children and loved ones entertained. While kids can partake in most any of the fun listed above, sometimes it’s a good idea to give the little ones a space and activities of their own.

Dedicated playgrounds give them a good venue to burn off some energy and keep them entertained for hours. Letting the kids play in a safe environment is sure to make it a favorite with families and keep everyone looking forward to your picnics.

Book the Perfect Venue at Frogbridge Picnics and Special Events

Whatever direction you want to take your summer events in, Frogbridge has a wealth of options and just about anything you could imagine can become a reality here. With 86 acres to spread out over, a pool complex, lakefront beaches, sports venues, and more, everything you need to create the perfect event and reward your team with a truly special day is at your disposal.

Book the team-building trip of your dreams with Frogbridge Events by reaching out to us online or giving us a call today at (609) 208-9475.

Joanna Brooks

November 17, 2020

Five Precautions to Take When Planning Your Corporate Event After COVID-19

Perhaps you want to reward your team for their exceptional work, or you want to celebrate a company milestone. It may be that you’re looking to give your employees a weekend out of the office to relax and unwind. Whatever your reasons, it’s possible that you’re hesitant about planning a corporate event after COVID-19. With strict regulations and lockdowns, you’re probably wondering how you’ll be able to organize a unique corporate event.

Luckily, by taking the necessary precautions, a small-scale outdoor event is workable. If you’re looking to host a corporate event for your company, take a look at the following information highlighting five safety measures you should take per CDC guidelines.

Restrict the Number of Attendees

Because COVID-19 is highly contagious, airborne, and can live on surfaces for hours to days, the main concern you may have is how to keep your attendees socially distanced. The most effective way to do this is to restrict the number of guests. Be sure to only invite the most significant people who should be attending the event, and remove the option to bring a plus one.

Of course, you don’t want to leave anyone out, but it may be worth noting those that may have a higher risk of getting sick. If there’s anyone on your team with a health condition or that can’t risk getting sick because they’re around other vulnerable family members, then you might want to give them the option to attend the event virtually.

In addition, because CDC health experts recommend keeping a six-foot distance between one another, look for venues with a large, open space that will comfortably accommodate your guests.

Host a Handshake-Free Event

Not only does social distancing call for increased space between people, but it also requires limited physical touch. Just nine months ago, a normal event would allow for handshakes, hugs, and high fives. Unfortunately, the safest thing to do would be to introduce a handshake-free concept, and as the organizer, it’s up to you to uphold these rules.

Notify all guests prior to the event what your safety expectations are. If you’re creating invitations, don’t forget to make a bold call to action stressing the importance of everyone playing their part in keeping the event as safe as possible. Establish alternative ways to greet someone without touching, such as waving or air hugs. If someone is experiencing signs of the virus before the event, make sure they stay behind and get the care they need.

Enforce the Use of Personal Protective Gear

Although the use of masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer has become second nature, it’s still imperative that you and your guests recognize the importance of them. Ensure that all guests are using personal protective gear in the correct way. Masks should be worn covering the nose and mouth, and hands should be sanitized frequently throughout the day. Additionally, you’ll want to purchase extra masks and gloves for employees, as well as provide handwashing and sanitization opportunities. For instance, talk to your venue about setting up sanitization stations.

Choose an Outdoor, Clean, and Sanitized Venue

Choose a stunning outdoor event venue at Frogbridge Events. We strive to keep you and your team confident knowing that your corporate event can still be spectacular despite the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19. From open-air lakeside activities to fun outdoor affairs, our outdoor corporate event venue can easily accommodate at least 100 guests while effectively following CDC guidelines for social distancing, cleaning, and disinfecting. We know the importance of keeping your employees comfortable, which is why we’ll make it a priority to implement the best practices and procedures for disinfecting our venue.

At Frogbridge Events, we only host up to two events per day. If you want to be certain your event is the only one taking place for health reasons, be sure to let our event planners know and we will sort out the details with you. Also, our exceptional culinary chef will craft a menu to meet your specific request—no matter your group’s dietary restrictions or if you want food individually wrapped to limit the spread of the virus.

Perfect Outside Venue for Your Corporate Event in Central NJ

Open spaces, all things nature, and resort-style amenities are what Frogbridge Events in Central, New Jersey is all about. It’s understandable to feel worried about planning a corporate event after a pandemic, but there are plenty of ways you can keep your guests safe while having fun when you book with Frogbridge Events. Your guests can indulge in 86 acres of breathtaking views, mouthwatering foods, and exciting team-building activities. It’s been an overwhelming year for everyone, especially workers. Don’t underestimate the transformative power of an outdoor corporate event.

Frogbridge Events has successfully planned and executed hundreds of corporate events and company picnics. From catering and entertainment to security and health precautions, we’ll help plan a stress-free and one-of-a-kind corporate event for your team. To learn more about the various corporate event packages we have to offer, complete a contact form or call our office any time at (609) 208-9475. We look forward to hearing from you!

Joanna Brooks

outdoor corporate event to boost employee morale

September 9, 2020

Top Ways an Outdoor Corporate Event Can Boost Employee Morale

When employees lack morale, it negatively impacts performance, productivity, and workplace culture. This can lead to overly stressful and disconnected workplace environments. What’s worse is that low employee morale can spread quickly around the office, affecting even top-performing employees.

For managers and company executives, boosting employees’ morale can be a challenging task. However, it’s imperative to be proactive and tackle the issue before things get worse. That’s not only because work projects could be at risk of falling below the standard. There are more long-term consequences to consider: Low employee morale, if not managed properly, can result in increased turnover and absenteeism.

Fortunately, there are several ways you can support your team. One of the best ways is an outdoor corporate event! Not only can an outdoor corporate event help cultivate a high-energy company culture, but it can also strengthen team cohesion. Still not convinced? Here are some other top ways an outdoor corporate event can boost employee morale.

Change of Environment

Doing the same thing repeatedly gets boring after a while. Employees that come to work and do their same routine every day may start to feel unmotivated and lack determination. A change of environment can get your employees out of a rut by giving them something different to do. Perhaps a little fresh air and fun activities will be all they need to recharge and refocus.

An outdoor corporate event is the perfect opportunity to get all-in-one. From outdoor picnics and comfort foods to recreational activities and relaxation time, your employees can benefit greatly from an office getaway. Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery for your employees to discover the best version of themselves and each other.

Inspiring Messages

Undoubtedly, the weather affects our mood. Ever heard “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles? Well, they weren’t lying when they sang about “the smiles returning to their faces.” Just as a rainy day can put us in a lazy and sad mood, sunshine can brighten moods and cheer us up.

The outdoors and the vast natural beauty around us—like trees, flowers, and lakes—have powerful effects on our health. Instead of taking a company trip to a restaurant or indoor venue, consider how much your employees would love an outdoor event. An outdoor corporate event can help your employees think more clearly and inspire them to achieve their goals and apply themselves to their work more meaningfully.

Unwind and Destress

Being in nature is relaxing and will allow your employees to unwind and destress—not just from work responsibilities, but from personal ones too. With open-air and sunshine, your employees can rejuvenate their minds and bodies, completely resetting their outlook. A corporate event venue on a lakefront or with a pool can create an immediate feeling of relaxation. Just seeing or hearing water can make your employees feel calm, instantly taking them to a safe place.

Collective Communication

Communication is essential to the success of any business. It is central to everything we do. When your employees are in a confined space, sometimes communicating can be difficult. Time spent outdoors can encourage your employees to talk about their ideas and reflect on shared interests, which promotes bonding, collaboration, and a way to look at concepts from a different perspective.

This is a chance for your team to learn new things about each other and build trust. Often, work is just about work. Employees don’t get the chance to learn about what their office mates enjoy doing outside of work or about their families and passions. A safe outdoor environment can stimulate vulnerability and togetherness, inevitably fostering friendship.

Bonding Activities

Just as being in an office can reduce collective communication, it can also limit bonding and team building. An outdoor corporate event with effective team-building activities and challenges will not only allow your employees to build teamwork skills but also pave the way for team success.

Whether it’s sporting activities or trivia games, your employees will be able to spend true quality time together. This will allow them to learn about each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and interests. You’d be surprised to see how your employees act outside of the workplace and how team-building exercises can develop a shared mindset among team members.

Foster Creativity

When your employees can communicate freely amongst themselves, they will feel more motivated to express their ideas. Those who are stressed or overwhelmed with work are less likely to come forward and share their thoughts on work-related projects or issues. A well-organized outdoor corporate event enables your employees to think and give them a break from emails and clients.

What’s more is that every time your employees step outdoors and see something that reminds them of your outdoor corporate event, they will have fond memories of how that event changed things for them. Investing in your team is one of the smartest business decisions you will ever make. You will be providing your employees with personal growth and memorable experiences that will last a lifetime.

Host Your Outdoor Corporate Event at Frogbridge Picnics & Events

If you want to incorporate the outdoors into your corporate event, Frogbridge Picnics & Events is perfect for you. The combination of our gorgeous 86-acre fields and the enticing scenery of Millstone Township, New Jersey will blow your employees away. The setting, details, and vibe of our venue will give your employees a space to discover themselves.

At Frogbridge Picnics & Events, our event planners can transform our space to meet your needs. With resort-style amenities, customized catering options, and popular outdoor adventure activities, we are sure that your team will leave feeling satisfied and revitalized. To discover more about what Frogbrige has to offer, complete a contact form or call our office anytime at (609) 208-9475.

Joanna Brooks

June 9, 2020

New Jersey Non-Traditional Corporate Retreat Ideas

When it comes to planning your corporate retreat, you don’t want the same old style as years before. Break with the past and try something new by including these fun ideas for a non-traditional corporate retreat. At Frogbridge, planning events is what we do best. We know that adding a few creative touches can turn a humdrum event into an extraordinary experience that everyone will remember!

Unconventional New Jersey Corporate Retreat Concepts

Adding a little flair and originality to your corporate retreat will encourage employee attendance and create an inviting atmosphere for employees to get to know each other better. Raise the bar by infusing these alternative suggestions at your next corporate retreat:

Unique Venues for your Corporate Retreat

The first thing to plan for any corporate retreat is the location. Swap the boring and all-too-popular reception hall or event center in exchange for a unique atmosphere. Consider a lakeside or beach setting that features recreational and leisurely activities.

A few off-the-wall venue options include:

Recreational resort
A historic site
Golf course
Farm field or barn
Bowling alley
Aquarium
Museum
Botanical garden
Boat or cruise

Pick a venue that fits your company culture so employees feel relaxed and comfortable to unwind. If you have a competitive bunch, choose a venue that offers options for games and team-building activities. If your team is under a lot of pressure, look for a place in the beautiful outdoors that includes serene landscaping and leisure activities.

Choosing Your Corporate Retreat Theme

What’s more exciting than an event with a theme? Having a theme for your corporate retreat generates buzz around the office in the weeks leading up to it, and employees can dress up to really get in the spirit.

Consider these out of the box theme ideas:

Hollywood
Murder Mystery
Gangsters
Roaring ’20’s
County fair
Star Wars Fairy Tales
Zombie Apocalypse
What happens in Vegas…
Rodeo

We suggest gathering props to enhance your theme and create a photo booth area! Employees can socialize and snap photos together to remember the day.

Crafting Your Corporate Retreat Menu

Once you choose your theme, the rest of the planning decisions are simple! Build onto your theme with a specialty menu to delight the taste buds. For example, if you have a carnival or county fair theme, include funnel cakes, corn dogs, and perhaps deep-fried Oreos! If you’re having a Hawaiian luau, infuse your menu with pineapple and tropical notes.

If you’d rather skip the theme, you can still get creative when crafting your menu! Consider serving finger foods that guests love like mini-pulled pork sliders, beef kebabs, and crab cakes. If you want a more nutritious option, try a “wrap buffet” where guests can choose their own meats, veggies, and fixings.

Employees and guests will happily welcome novelty snacks and desserts to enjoy throughout their corporate retreat experience. Consider gourmet cookies, shaved Italian ice, or an ice cream sundae bar for a sweet summertime snack!

Plan your food and drink selections with a professional event planner who can bring all of your ideas and wishes into a real-life extravaganza!

Games & Activities for your corporate retreat

While some in the office may jump at the chance to participate in highly competitive sporting games, others might shudder at the thought. Be sure you consider the varying tastes and preferences when planning activities and team building exercises, so everyone finds something to enjoy.

A few of our favorites include:

Scavenger hunt
Extreme ziplining
Tug-of-war
Cornhole
Laser tag
Sports (beach volleyball, golf)
Water sports (kayaking, bumper boats)
Professional go-karts
Carnival-style games
Inflatable bounce houses

Everyone loves to win, so why not take it up a notch by including prizes to award the winning teams? Customized gifts with your company logo are ideal for a corporate retreat. Popular, high-quality ideas include lunch bags, sunglasses, and cell phone chargers.

Employee Gifts for your corporate retreat

Your employees work hard for your company day in and day out. Surprise them with a genuine show of gratitude by gifting your employees with something special at the end of the retreat. A little bit can go a long way, and your staff will be sure to return to work refreshed and re-energized come Monday morning.

Two ideas to show employee appreciation include:

Gift cards to the local coffee shop, car wash, or happy hour spot is always a good idea, plus it stimulates the local businesses in your community
Custom golf umbrellas with the company logo will be cherished by your staff for years to come.

Start Planning Your New Jersey Corporate Retreat with Frogbridge Events Today

Corporate retreats are more than a fun getaway for everyone at the office. These experiences have many benefits like increased teamwork, less stress in the office, and galvanized employees ready to work toward a common goal. When you’re ready to plan a non-traditional corporate retreat that your employees won’t soon forget, the professional event planning team at Frogbridge Events is prepared to help!

Our New Jersey Event Planners have helped numerous Fortune 500 companies, like L’oreal and Johnson & Johnson, plan their corporate events. We know what it takes to pull off an extraordinary corporate retreat experience and can plan yours too. Our corporate event planning team will walk you through your event step by step until we’ve created the corporate picnic, retreat, or event to enthrall and delight your whole team! Schedule a call to learn more at Frogbridge Events by completing an online contact form or call today at (609) 208-9475.