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30th August 2019
This September, we celebrated our first year since entering the corporate hospitality market. So we thought we’d chat to our Sales and Marketing Manager, Lynn Sanderson, who moved to Ellingham Hall last August to drive our move into the sector.
Lynn talks about her experience and how we launched as a corporate event venue.
How long have you been in corporate hospitality?
I had worked in the hospitality industry for 7 years, from 2005 to 2012 after completing my degree at Northumbria University. I was a supplier to most venues in the North East, rather than working at a single venue. But I learned a lot about what goes on behind the scenes during that time.
What drew you to corporate hospitality?
To be honest, I fell into the sector by chance. I took a job with an events company and was tasked with providing a linen hire service to all hotels and venues within the region. I quickly developed excellent relationships with the venues and began supplying them with our full event services (not just linen). It is a very friendly and sociable industry, which I enjoyed, and it gave me great job satisfaction knowing that both my clients and the venues were impressed.
What is the first thing you’d advise anyone who is thinking of putting on a business event?
Planning is key! Allow enough time to properly plan the event and cover all bases. Also, factor in a contingency plan, as things don’t always run perfectly. You need to be clear on both the objectives of the event and what you want to get out of it.
There is also a need to have an event budget. This will help you to make certain decisions about the event and what you can afford to include.
Finally, think about timings! This will help you determine a structure and who you may need to involve to help make the event a success. Put yourself in the shoes of your guests and imagine what their expectations would be if attending.
What made you decide to work for Ellingham Hall?
I worked with Ellingham Hall previously supplying event planning services for weddings and events. I developed very good relationships with the team and had a good knowledge of the venue. I had great memories and that, coupled with my love for the venue and great working relationship, encouraged me to go join Ellingham when I was offered the post. I had been out of the industry for 6 years, but during that time I had gained more transferrable skills, particularly in corporate sales development.
What is your favourite room at Ellingham?
This is a difficult one because I’ve seen significant improvements to the venue since returning last year. However, I think I would say the Chapel because this I feel is the biggest major change. Not only does the restored chapel still retain the major historic features, but it now has a modern look and feel, which makes it more appealing to prospective clients. It is clever how the team made the best use of this space by adding a quirky mezzanine level, which leads out onto a rooftop terrace with stunning views. You could not access that area before the renovation and its added two extra spaces perfect for use for all occasions.
What do you like about working at Ellingham Hall?
It has to be the happy, relaxed working environment, which is key to getting the best out of people. The team constantly strives to improve the venue and the service levels offered. You can’t ask for more! You get a feeling that you’re a very important part of the team, no matter which position you have.
If you are searching for a corporate event venue, Ellingham Hall has a range of event spaces and offers exclusive use. Contact the team today to discuss your requirements.
“Thank you so much for helping us have the wedding of our dreams! We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day (or 3!) Our guests had a blast and we were blown away by how everything turned out. We especially appreciate your flexibility and willingness to answer all our questions. Special shootout to Alicia and Wendy for all their help on the day. Thank you so much!”
Caitlin & Chris Newman, 18th November 2023
“Nick and I just wanted to say the most enormous thank you for making our day so special. The whole thing felt completely effortless whilst being executed perfectly. We were made to feel at home from the moment we arrived, with a massive thanks to Beth, Debbie, David and Jeff who were all completely faultless. Their attention to detail and acknowledgment of things important to us was exceptional. Debbie, thank you so much for making me feel at ease when I was so nervous!
Chloe & Nick Gardiner, 4th May 2024
“The venue exceeded our expectations. Not only did it offer uniqueness, but exclusivity was a key factor in booking. The main Hall offered lots of space for us to work and we found the delegate rates very competitive. The venue comes highly recommended. “
Lisa Davidson, HR Director – Connect Health
“I have hosted seminars for over 30 years, all over the country at various well-known venues. At Ellingham Hall you remember everything, from the beautiful quirky venue which has retained its historic features, the friendly staff, great service and the delicious food and amazing coffee! The meeting room had good light and was the perfect size for our event. It was lovely to have use of the comfortable reception rooms too for breaks and lunch. I was very impressed with the extra spaces such as the basement games room and rooftop networking terrace. It is a hidden jewel in the North-East and I am planning to return soon for a private family event”
Amanda Chadwick, Senior Speaker/Presenter, Croner
“I booked a lunch party at Ellingham Hall for a very discerning group comprising of generous supporters of a local charity. We were 27 people and we enjoyed a Champagne reception before a delicious three course lunch. Wendy and her team could not do enough for us, our every request was granted. Dietary requirements were very efficiently and creatively dealt with and the result was a most enjoyable event at a price I was very satisfied with. I would definitely use Ellingham Hall again for a function like this.”
Jon Radgick
“Ellingham was the second venue we looked at and as soon as we saw it we knew that’s where we had to get married. We travelled 2 hours to get here with many of our guests coming further than that. We were looking for a venue that could offer the whole day there and would suit a wedding of 33 people which most local venues around us didn’t. Our guests couldn’t believe how beautiful the whole place was and everyone commented on such an amazing find! There are no hidden costs and everything is clear on their website which seems to be a rarity when looking online at different venues.”
Leah & Steven Williams, 6th February 2024
