02 Oct Square Meal
This week I attended Square Meal’s annual exhibition; Venues and Events Live at Old Billingsgate. The event hosted over 250 event suppliers and venues and was the perfect opportunity to network with a range of UK suppliers. With this being the 4th year running that I’ve attended, I can genuinely say it’s an unmissable event for event industry professionals and a great opportunity to catch up with some familiar faces.
On arrival there is the opportunity to have a complimentary breakfast or lunch before making your way around the impressive number of exhibitors. There really is something for everyone whether you’re looking for a restaurant or bar, academic venue, luxury hotel or event suppliers such as photobooths, florists, balloons or caterers.
As well as being the perfect chance to put some faces to lots of names that we work with daily through email or phone, it was also an opportunity to take part in hands on masterclasses such as ‘Become a Social Posting Pro’ & ‘The Science of Sleep’ as well as talks from industry experts, that included Grace Dent; The Guardian’s recently-appointed restaurant critic, and Ella Mills; social media influence and author of Deliciously Ella.
There is also of course, plenty of chances to win prizes, either on the stands by taking part in various activities; from scratch cards to Cluedo, or by the large prize draw you enter when registering for the online. Plus, no exhibition would be complete without coming away with numerous brochures, business cards, pens & sweet treats!
The day is nicely rounded off with a complimentary Aperol Spritz which you can enjoy while sat on the terrace overlooking the impressive London Skyline and taking in the last of the summer sun.
The show really is a great opportunity for anyone who organises events, whether you’re a client, agent or even a venue to gather inspiration and contacts and I would highly recommend to anyone with an upcoming UK event.
Venues and Events Live will be back at Old Billingsgate on Wednesday 18th and Thursday 19th September 2019.