We’ve had a multitude of excellent comments, feedback and testimonials – so we’ve asked one of our National Chimney House customers to tell it like it is in a neat case study.
Internal Communications Manager -Associate
Business Development & Communications
Group Size: 40 Purpose: Away Day
Pre-event planning –
We heard about The Chimney House opening in Kelham Island and being so close to our office, we were keen to check out the facilities for some team away days we were planning. The main purpose for this event was to ensure that we were showcasing ‘the best of Sheffield’ to a national team of marketing and business development professionals whilst delivering an environment that enabled the team to receive presentations and take part in breakout sessions.
As soon as we met Sally we knew that our expectations would be exceeded. Her attention to detail is outstanding and nothing was ever too much trouble. Sally welcomed us to The Chimney House for numerous planning visits and provided a full range of options for various elements of our event – in particular walking us through mouthwatering menus from other local providers that resulted in us opting to extend our stay to make use of the pop-up dining hall in the evening to hold a team ‘feast’.
Challenges –
Our team travels to Sheffield from all around the country so we wanted somewhere that was easily accessible by public transport and straightforward for those unfamiliar with Sheffield to find. We are also quite a large team and in the past we have struggled to find somewhere that is large enough for us all, without us being swamped by some of the larger venues available. The Chimney House provided us with the perfect mix of space yet intimacy for this event.
Solution –
The event was a huge success and everyone was completely charmed by The Chimney House team. From the moment the team arrived, everyone was extremely well looked after and touches such as the flowers in the meeting room and the decoration of the ‘feasting table’ in the evening was noted by all.
The fact that we were able to combine our business meeting with a dining experience to remember has to be one of the clear highlights of the event and something that really sets this venue apart.
What happened on the day:
Guests arrived mid morning and were greeted with comforting mugs of tea and coffee to fuel a day of activity! The day started with a series of presentations in the Meeting Room which was set up theatre style – decorated with platters of maltesers to help delegates through the morning. Our presenter’s fed back that they felt really relaxed in the venue and they felt that this had a positive impact on the way they engaged with the audience!
A number of breakout sessions took place in the afternoon with the group coming back together to present to each other – although not before tea and cake at 3pm – perfectly timed to perk up the traditional afternoon dip and providing delegates with yet another opportunity to sample yet more locally sourced produce.
The formalities were wrapped up by 4.30pm when everyone retired to the The Front Room for drinks and talk of what a wonderful day we had!
Whilst we had taken the opportunity to treat the team to some exquisite fine dining in the evening, we did have a number of people that were unable to stay due to onward travel and personal commitments. However, they didn’t miss out! Those that had to leave to catch trains back to the four corners of the UK, left with a goody bag to be envied! Portions of homemade pies, salads, cakes and even some liquid refreshment were provided to the travelers to enjoy – ensuring that no-one felt left out. It’s thoughtful touches such as this that will keep us going back to The Chimney House!
Post-event analysis –
I am pleased to report that we have subsequently returned to The Chimney House on a number of occasions – hosting both internal meetings and client events as this unique venue. I think this just goes to show how highly we regard this venue and The Chimney House team.
This case study will be appearing in the June 11 issue of Conference and Incentive Travel.
For more details about planning your event, meeting, away day, training, workshop at The Chimney House please email sally@thechimneyhouse.com
