Dear Emily, Kim and Alec -and all the hard working staff at the BNC! 

Thank you so much for a most enjoyable evening last night at the Guildhall.
What a truly spectacular venue it is. The food and entertainment was fantastic and I've no doubt the Urban Soul Orchestra will be flooded with bookings after their rousing performance.

Thanks again and I look forward to seeing you all at the BNC show in July.
Brendan

I wanted to say a big thank you for organising last night’s BNC Grand Dinner. It was incredibly well run, the food and venue were stunning - I loved the seafood starter! I was also able to make some good new contacts, my stack of business cards has been depleted and I was able to catch up with some familiar faces. All in all, it was a brilliant evening, well done!!

All the best,
Abi

Huge thank you for the invitation, what an incredible venue and fantastic dinner last night!
I made some really interesting connections too and have lots of inspirations for my future events going forward.

Thanks again,
Emilia

Thank you so much for a beautiful evening at the Guildhall last night. The food was delicious, the wine excellent and the company, as always a delight!

I’m sorry I couldn’t stay on and enjoy the band but with a new job and a sick husband I had to get home. Please also pass my thanks to Emily and the entire BNC team for a wonderfully organised event. 

I am looking forward to seeing you all again at the July show.

Kind regards
Sarah

Dear Kim, Alec and all the lovely BNC Team

Thank you very much for a great evening last night at such a great location.

Big hats off to you all for organising.

See you all soon.

Best Wishes
Ken

///

Amazing event, well done it was a lovely evening.

We are looking forward to the 12th of July as we endeavour to keep that bar rising

Paul 

Fantastic evening last night Kim!! Sorry I had to leave a little early but had to say goodbye to the kids as they are off to Belgium today!! Thanks for such a wonderful evening. The venue, entertainment and food were amazing and I had the pleasure of sitting with the amazing florist, one of the band and one of the caterers, lucky girl!

Marissa

///

Hi Kim,

Thank you for last night! It was a fantastic evening and I loved every bit of it.

Many thanks,
Nikki 

Thank you so much for a fab evening. The venue was great, as was the food and we have made some really useful contacts. 

I look forward to hearing about any upcoming events. 

Thanks again and best wishes, 
Katie

It really was a great night last night! 

Kind regards,
Francesca

///

Can I just say what a fabulous dinner it was yesterday. I had a really good time and met some really interesting people. Thank you so much for the invite!

Thanks again
Nicola

I had a lovely evening at the grand dinner last night thank you for the invite.

Kind regards
Laura 

///

Thanks so much for a fantastic evening, it was again a very well organised event by your team! The venue and food was amazing and great to see you all as always.

Looking forward to the next show in July.

Harriet 

I just wanted to say thank you for last night, myself and my manager had a brilliant time. The food, wine and entertainment was amazing, and I met some great people that I will be in contact with for upcoming events. 

Many thanks Hannah

Thank you all for your splendid hospitality. As always, a brilliantly delivered & great networking and fun BNC event. The Guildhall is absolutely stunning, such a hidden gem and their catering was exceptional! I think the band were also at their best. Thanks to photographers, lighting, musician, table dressings. Everything was simply perfect.

Apologies for my inept ability at the head & tails game – I was going for the comedy value (Ha!)

Really thank you – all your hard work showed & paid off!

Kind regards
Jo

Thanks so much,

What a great evening yesterday! Such a beautiful venue; I absolutely love the vaults. 
Great to see you and the team all looking so well in your finery 

Until next time, all the best, 

Sophie

///

I just wanted to say a very big thank you for last night.

The Guildhall was an amazing venue and the food and entertainment superb. It was a pleasure to be a part of such a great evening and catch up with industry colleagues.

Thank you again for the invite and we are looking forward to the next BNC show at Central Hall Westminster.

Best wishes
Mary

The evening was great!. I really enjoyed the company of people in my table.

Also it was such a beautiful place! And the best, was the chance to see old friends :)

Again, thank you for the invite. I really enjoyed the evening!

Kind regards,
Rosa

///

Hope you have recovered after another wonderful event! Thank you so much for having me last night, it was a really lovely evening. Kim and Alec do make me laugh. I had a really nice table of people as well and it was all fab! Congrats on another great event!
Kelly

Thank you for such a lovely evening! Really enjoyed it.

It was lovely meeting you!

Best wishes,
Christian

///

Thank you for the invitation, it was a very enjoyable night!

Gail

Thank you so much for such a wonderful night!

The food, setting and of course company were all wonderful

All the best,
Kat

///

Thanks again for including me. As always it was great event.

Looking forward to catching up again soon.
Lisa

Tuesdays dinner was the best yet!

Well done to you and all the team!

See you in July!
Ali

///

Thank you Lizz for a great evening!! I am looking forward to the 2018 BNC event in February already

I have also made my donation as promised

I hope you had a great time and congratulation to the team on a superb night

Emma 


Thanks for a great night, we had to shoot off as Rhys has recently had a baby but we really enjoyed it and will certainly be in attendance for the next one!

It would be great to get the pictures taken by Ian of myself and Rhys, theres a couple on the FB page

Many thanks
Jake

We had a fantastic evening on Tuesday. Thank you to you and all your team for organising such a great event and to everyone involved.

Best wishes
Helen

See more photos from the event on our BNC Event Shows Facebook here

We'd planned an awesome event, including all the trademarks of our now famous networking exhibition but this year we went that extra mile to showcase the best in the business by making use of new events space at London’s The Brewery which enabled us to welcome scores of new suppliers to The BNC Event Shows brand and to extend our welcome area.

We also built-in extra special touches as it was the occasion of our tenth – yes, 10^th!!! - show and there was the opportunity to celebrate!

There was a Champagne party, free makeovers for guests, extra goodies to take home, over 25 giveaways and luxury prizes to be won plus a stellar line-up of excellent and awe-inspiring speakers including Simon Weston CBE and Brexit experts Nick de Bois and Simon Hughes.

Buyers involved too in gift-giving, too. Their mission, under the #BNCGivesBack campaign, was to bring in unopened toiletries for us to create hampers for cancer patients. Watching everyone happily donate bottles of lotions, perfumes, creams, make-up and bath sets was inspiring and is something we hope to repeat with every show.

 “From start to finish it was a non-stop incredible day,” says The BNC’s Director Kim Paulden. “It was our best show to date and I am so pleased that we marked our tenth anniversary with gifts for others. I’m proud of this initiative and thank everyone who took part.”

Another thing we hope to repeat with every show is a phenomenal presence on Twitter! During early afternoon #BNCEventShow was the number two trending hashtag on London Twitter!

Tweets relating to fascinating seminars, informative stand holders and a fun atmosphere flooded the number one social media channel and we topped the likes of Robbie Williams as the hot topic of conversation for the day. Wow!

In a message to BNC members Kim says:

“Thank you for coming to our show and for being such fantastic buyers. You filled the aisles and took the time to speak to the exhibitors and enjoy the day who were thrilled with the energy, atmosphere and engagement levels you brought to the day. 

“We organise our BNC Event Shows just for you and are so pleased when year after year the buzz gets greater, the aisles become busier and you - the buyers - go home happier after a few really well spent hours doing research, networking and learning new trends and tips of the trade.

“We're really proud of what we do but we owe it all to you - your enthusiasm and passion for events with quality suppliers at quality venues and destinations challenges us and impresses us and drives what we do. Thank You.”

Are you a full BNC member? Missed the show but would like some notes from seminars, or for us to connect you with exhibitors? Just drop us a line and we’ll sort it for you. Please write to: melissapaulden@thebnc.co.uk

Thank you #eventprofs for the amazing feedback of our show!

“We really enjoy exhibiting at The BNC Event Show. Every year the quality of the buyers is outstanding and the atmosphere overall, outshines any event show that we go to” The Hurlingham Club

“I come to the BNC Show every year because hands down it is the best show in the industry” Freelance event manager

 “Thank you for arranging a fantastic event last Wednesday – I had a very busy and very fruitful event! 
Can I please ask for more information on the July BNC such as who attends, how much it is, is it the same format as the February event? Can I also ask if I can rebook my position for February 2018? “ Business Design Centre

"Fantastic show!" CWC Group Limited

“What a great event! Seen some really, really good strong buyers here today. Quality wise, it is one of the shows that I look forward to every year. If I walked away now, which has just gone lunchtime, I would still be a very happy lady, Brilliant Show” Imago

“Been coming to The BNC for the last four years and have always found it a very good show. Really good mix of buyers both direct and agency. Very good ROI for us and a really good follow up, all in all BNC is a fantastic Show” Royal Garden Hotel

"Great show" Grass Roots

“This is our fourth year at The BNC Show. It’s been a great show already this morning. We have made a substantial amount of new contacts with a great number of enquiries as well to follow up on” SANA Hotels

“I come to The BNC Event Show every year its really good to catch up with people who I don’t get to on a regular basis. They always get lots of really good suppliers, I like to see if there are any new venues around. It is the best show I come to every year” AOK Events

“It is one of the best shows we do, we have done it every year now, it has such a high calibre of buyers and today has been really, really busy” BMA House

“The BNC is a really great organisation. The initiative itself, bringing event managers together and sharing ideas is a wonderful thing. Today, bringing all the venues and exhibitors under one roof makes life a lot easier and everybody is really friendly and informative and it’s really good because you get free stuff and free food – all day, it makes us happy and want to be here, it’s been really good and we got some great suppliers from today” News on the block

“We have had a fantastic show today, we’ve seen lots of fabulous buyers and got really great access to, especially direct, corporate buyers that we might not always get to see and reconnect with some agency friends as well, it’s been a really great show” The Dorchester Collection

“Thanks for a fabulous event today! I thoroughly enjoyed myself and felt it was very worthwhile attending in terms of relevant suppliers with whom I met” EMAP

"Thank you for an amazing show! As ever, the best and most helpful event gathering. The education was great and I got to give out four proposals for events on the spot! It's the only show I attend!" Field Fisher

To celebrate two decades of events industry networking, The BNC - Europe’s leading  association for event professionals - relaunched its Corporate Networking Forums in style at the Dolce CampoReal, Lisbon...And to bring the event into the 21^st century, and as a way of celebrating twenty incredible years, The BNC team added a charity element to the four-day trip and The BNC Gives Back Forum was born.

To qualify all participants had to already be doing, or commit to participate in, some form of individual or group charity work and whilst there, Portuguese DMC EMVIAGEM brought in local charities to join in the networking. At the end of the Forum all attendees agreed to a series of BNC charity initiatives that will be carried out through 2017 and beyond.

BNC Recommends: Why did we choose Lisbon?

It is one of the oldest cities in the world and has practically the warmest winters in Europe! Flying time is just over two hours and there is no time difference!

BNC Recommends:  What would we recommend about the destination and hotel?

The large bedrooms and amenities

The chairs in the conference room were c o m f y (it’s the small things!)

The covered courtyard breakout space was so Mediterranean and a welcoming place to sit in between sessions!

The ‘nourishment station’ as it was called was plentiful, stocking piles of delicious snacks that never ran out

The unique canapé options that were beautifully displayed and explained to us when asked (that’s really important!)

Service with a genuine smile – the Portuguese did this a lot (something other hotels and suppliers could learn from)

The thoughtfulness of our arrivals team –the hotel served homemade hot chocolate and melt-in-the-mouth biscuits, the perfect pick-me-up after travelling and it made the check-in process for 50+ people not so bad!

Great teams working together to make your event happen (see supplier list here).

Kim Paulden says.......

On the destination:

“There’s something really buzzing and ‘alive’ about Lisbon. It has a wonderful energy to it and it’s my favourite place for a short break. There is so much culture and history and the people are incredibly friendly and to top it off the hotels there are outstanding. That’s why I chose Lisbon as the destination for our BNC Gives Back Forum 2017. Our hosts were so accommodating and warm and welcoming, they made The BNC’s 20^th Anniversary all the more special.”

On the networking:

“From the minute we arrived at Heathrow’s Terminal 2 our group started networking. I could hear them in the check-in queue! It was brilliant! They were a lively, engaging and incredibly friendly group of event professionals who clearly enjoyed each others’ company and the opportunity to learn more about a destination together and to meet suppliers in a less traditional set-up.

On our second day we had supplier-buyer meetings that went really well and then on the third day we broke off into groups to chat through industry issues and event management problems. Of course, there was lots of storytelling and recommendation sharing as well!

During the day we discussed all things events in conversations that included buyers, suppliers, our Portuguese hosts and charities from the local area.

Key topics were:   Transparency, Contracts, Brexit and its Impact on the Events Industry, ROI, Creativity, After Dinner Entertainment Ideas, Health and Safety, Service Levels, Supplier-Buyer Communications and Relationships. We finished with a large group session on charity work and how we can all be more charitable in our own events, as a Club and as an industry as a whole.

Our group literally chatted non-stop throughout the four days: in the hotel’s elegant lounge bar, over breakfast, lunches and dinner in the beautiful Grande Escholha and Manjapão restaurants and then during pockets of free time where they went to the gym, the pool, out on bike rides and to nearby towns. The final excursion – an evening spent at the trendy Museu da Cerveja in the heart of Lisbon town saw the group really bond over a unique tasting and dining experience. By the end of the trip it was evident that solid connections had been made.”

On The BNC Gives Back initiative:

“We’re very lucky to work in the industry that we do,” says Kim Paulden, Director of The BNC and the driver behind The BNC Gives Back initiative.

“It’s a multi-million pound industry and we all arrange or attend very extravagant and privileged events.

To balance that, The BNC wants its members to come together to work towards good causes and to leave a lasting legacy wherever we are – at home or overseas.

I am so pleased with the efforts made by the BNC team and by our members and supplier contacts during the latter part of 2016 and with the Gives Back Forum in Lisbon. There’s a lot more to come as the initiative takes hold and grabs the hearts and imagination of many more BNC people.

It was an honour to meet with charities from Portugal and we hope that we helped them in some way. We will keep in touch and look forward to hearing their updates.”

BNC Recommends: 

What the buyers said

“Thank you for a wonderful four days that not only allowed me the opportunity to meet with some amazing people on a professional and personal level but to learn a great deal. I came away from the whole experience with so many tips and ideas. It’s given me back the confidence in my own abilities. Working for a membership organisation, creativity isn't needed and I’d forgotten that I'm creative because I don't get to be creative. Everything is done online these days and you don't get the human interaction that last week’s adventure gave us. You forget the value of face to face meetings even though our careers are about selling face to face meetings to delegates. It’s been an eye opener and will definitely change how I market my events moving forward. I also picked up some secret tricks to use when booking hotels for my holidays thanks to Rita from Sofitel.”

“Thanks so much for having me at the event, it was really useful and hopefully I have found a venue for our London event from it! I really appreciate all the organisation that you guys put into such a great event and look forward to seeing you at another event soon.”

“I just wanted to say thanks again for letting me be part of the forum. It was such a useful event - I still feel like my head's going to explode from learning so much and meeting so many great people, but it was definitely worth it! I'm sure you're well aware of this already, but in addition to being a fantastic networking opportunity it was also superbly organised - Emily is an absolute wonder!”

“I would just like to say a huge thank you for inviting me to the Forum, I had the best time and really picked up some amazing venue contacts. You did a great job in organising and the BNC family are a great team! They made me feel very welcome. I would love to stay in touch and shall be at the London show so hopefully see you then. If you do another Forum I would absolutely love to attend.”

CHARITIES

Maria Lourenço, ABMAV

Patrícia Pinto, ABMAV

Telma Teixeira, ABLA

Elsa Pereira, ABLA

With thanks, to our wonderful hosts:

Alexandra Baltazar, Manager, Lisbon Convention Bureau

Samantha Martins, International Sales Manager, Dolce CampoReal Lisboa

Luiz Castro, Business Development Manager, EMVIAGEM (Our DMC)

Ana Castro, Groups, Incentives and Congress Department, EMVIAGEM (Our DMC)

Carlos Pinto de Oliveira, Sales,  United Kingdom, TAP Portugal

JOIN US NEXT TIME:

We have already sold over half of the supplier spaces and have taken some registrations from buyers for the 2018 overseas BNC Gives Back Forum! If you would like to find out more please contact emily@bnceventshows.com 

Over 200 party-goers gathered at the glorious One Great George Street in London's Westminster, to network, relax, sample wonderful treats and enjoy catching up with friends and connections old and new.

Event professionals work hard all year, making stunning events happen for others, and so on this night The BNC wanted to spoil and reward its guests as well as thank them for their loyalty and participation throughout the year at BNC Event Shows, BNC Forums and by continuing to keep the core of the Club - the online recommendation sharing – going as strong as ever.

There were exciting delights from event providers such as
- Lick Me I'm Delicious (who create wonderful concoctions from bubbling, Willy Wonka-style machines in front of guests' eyes, such as the 'edible mist' they provided on the night!)

- Boots who gave guests practical make-up and beauty advice as well as treatments and sparkly party make-up touches on the night

- Lee Smith an award-winning magician and mind reader did some incredible walkabout magic

- The Haywood Sisters who sang their special brand of vintage tunes – complete with Christmas carol where everyone joined-in!

- The House of Boda and Le Saint Tropez Rosé Company who each provided drinks samples and beer and wine tasting challenges on the night

- Megabooth who snapped groups in festive, snowy scenes

- TBR Floral Design who showcased their bespoke floral displays for the festive season

Add to this competitions such as the chance to win a luxury hamper filled with £400 worth of beauty products and other fun games with prizes, The BNC Christmas party was a lively affair with all the fun of a Santa's Grotto for big kids.

"It was our best party to date," says BNC Director Kim Paulden.

"Everyone had such a great time and I was so pleased to see so many people there. The venue did us proud and looked incredible. I'm so glad we picked One Great George Street for our Christmas party."

As tradition now holds, each event professional left the party with a Harvey Nichols Christmas hamper, courtesy of the 100 event suppliers who were there on the night. This made for some extremely happy guests who wrote-in the next day:

"Thanks for a lovely event. Loved the sing-a-long, and the makeovers, and the venue was lovely. Oh, and the hamper too :) thanks again and have a lovely Christmas."
New York Times

"Thank you for organising a fantastic party last night. I really enjoyed the evening, it was great to look round the venue and I will definitely keep Liz Earle in mind when sourcing gifts and additional extras/entertainment for events."
London Chamber of Commerce and Industry

"Thank you Kim and the rest of your wonderful team at the BNC for the lovely Christmas party last night.
It was lovely seeing everyone in that fabulous venue.
The canapés and entertainment have got me in the Christmas spirit even at this early stage!"

Have a great season,

BBC

"Thank you so much for last night, it was a fantastic evening enjoyed by myself and my colleague.  Thank you for inviting us. I hope you have an enjoyable Christmas and New Year."

Deloitte

"Huge thanks for last night – great fun and incredibly generous hampers! So appreciated."
Premira

Hi Kim,

Thanks for a great night, was a great start to the festive season and the hamper was fab :)

The Lisbon trip was mentioned again last night and it sounds as though you have added some additional volunteering into the programme whilst you are there that sounds great.

EY

Hi Kim,

Thanks so much for last night. It was a really great evening. Myself and Natasha really enjoyed ourselves and we loved the hamper!

Newquest media

Hi Kim,

Thanks so much for a great evening, really enjoyable!

AIMA

Hi Kim

Just wanted to drop you and note from all of us here at BBC Global News to say thanks for a great evening, we especially enjoyed singing along to Shakin' Stevens !

Looking forward to the pictures :)

Thanks
BBC Global News

Nikki beat me to it. I also wanted to say a big thank you for yesterday Kim. What a great night! Many thanks for the invitation.

BBC Global News

Hi Rosie

Lovely to see you last night and thank you to you and the rest of the BNC Team for a lovely party. Another triumph!
It was such a treat to have a bit of pampering courtesy of Liz Earle – we are big fans of her products here at LCCI.
Thank you also for the gorgeous hamper, I'm looking forward to sharing this with my family over the Christmas break.
With best wishes to you and the team,
London Chamber

Dear Kim
Thanks for a great evening - I had a lovely time last night at the party!

McKinsey & Company

Kim,

Thank you for last night. And a special mention to the people from Liz Earle, they were so lovely and helpful.

IG

Hi Kim,

Great meeting you last night. Thank you for the invitation, it was lovely!

Im hoping you and the BNC can help, we are looking for venues in Dubai. We need a large room for about 70 people with a stage set and screen and then a catering area for same number but with space for 6 small exhibition tables in it and buffet.

Thanks!

Open Door Media

Dear Kim,

I just wanted to send a big Thank You from me and the team for the great Christmas party! We are looking forward to the next Christmas part at the Shard already!

Euromoney Seminars

What a great event last night! Thanks very much to all at BNC for hosting. Really impressed with the venue too... definitely getting a site visit in after Christmas :)

CWP

Hi Kim,

Thanks for a fantastic evening, the wine tasting was really fun and making it a quiz was more interesting.

Arthur J. Gallagher

Held at Camden’s inspirational Interchange triangle the day-long networking event saw experienced event managers partnering with charity events co-ordinators in an effort to boost their forthcoming fundraisers by passing on tried-and-tested knowledge and expertise.

Charity staff from The Children’s Trust, Nova, Tern, Family Action and more brought big, ongoing issues to do with event management to the group of BNC professionals. Many were looking for ‘fresh ideas,’ some were looking for volunteers and others were looking for tips and tricks of the trade. What they all had in common was something that BNC eventprof members felt at one time - the need to shake off that feeling of isolation, to reach out to others and to use them as soundboards for advice and solid recommendations.

Questions such as ‘When’s the best time of year for a large scale event?’ ‘How much advance notice should we give our invitees?’ ‘Where can we find more volunteers for our events?’ were posed to the event professionals who used their decades of knowledge and expertise to give each of the eight charities’ events the corporate touch.

“Today has really changed how I think about planning events. It has helped tremendously,” said a representative from The Winch.

“I was feeling overwhelmed about my event and this has helped a lot,” commented Emma from Family Action .

Annie Joyce, head of events at Moneyfacts, who was participant and a presenter during the morning’s session added: “I’ve been a BNC member for over eleven years now and I’ve learnt a lot. It was good to learn about new charities and to be in a position to give back. It was a great day for me.”

Kate Conway, head of events at Hyundai, agreed.  “This was the best networking event I’ve been to. It was nice to feel useful for once! And it doesn’t finish here. I am going to go back and pick the brains of all of my contacts.”

The BNC’s Director Kim Paulden was really pleased with the day. “Thank you to everyone involved – the buyers, the Interchange and VOLO. The knowledge that our corporate event professionals have is fantastic and it was our absolute pleasure to connect the two worlds of events together to learn from each other. Harriet from Cambridge Weight Plan made me laugh earlier as she was rounding up. She said ‘I didn’t know I knew so much until I started talking!’ and that’s what The BNC is all about – giving you the platform to learn and share, discuss and debate and pass on knowledge. Today is the first of many events of this kind.”

The BNC Gives Back inaugural Charity Day was organised in partnership with VOLO, an organisation that brings people together to do good. They are all about making an impact, leaving an impression, a legacy, and they were fascinating to work with.

Says The BNC’s Gives Back co-ordinator Emily Everall:” It’s clear that everyone has had a really great day at this inaugural BNC Gives Back event. It’s been really productive and I think people could have talked for hours! We couldn’t have done today with the support of VOLO, who have been amazing to work with.”

The BNC will be giving back in a big way next year when it relaunches it’s annual overseas networking forum in Lisbon. In between the networking and site inspections a group of 50 corporate event managers and industry suppliers will help at an orphanage for the day. If you would like to join in please take a look here

Learnings from  the day:

Always think big – bigger than you think

Have confidence in your events AND in your abilities

Use social media more – think especially about running competitions to engage potential supporters and attendees

Plan ahead – be sketching out 2018 events now

If your charity has a venue that you can rent out, market it well. Start by listing it on venue finding websites

Pick your audience rather than the other way around

The more you commit to planning the smoother your event will be

Themes help event planning

What you’re doing is right! Just perhaps on a small scale

Measuring your ROI on events is crucial. Companies like Glisser – who presented on the day - can help

Always ask for feedback at the end of every event

Everyone you meet is a contact! Get their details and keep in touch with them!

It’s not too late!

To join in with The BNC Gives Back Forum please write to:

Suppliers: kimpaulden@thebnc.co.uk

Buyers: emily@bnceventshows.com

If you would like to get in touch with VOLO to find out more, please contact either 

Melissa Mitchell
Founder / CEO
VOLO GROUP
T: 07794 864 097
E: Melissa@volo.org.uk

or

Lotis Bautista
Co-founder/ CHIEF COMMUNITY OFFICER
VOLO GROUP
T: 07779 544 053
E: Lotis@volo.org.uk

(website: www.volo.org.uk)

Alternatively if you would like to find out more about The Interchange's event spaces, please contact

Victoria Robinson
Head of Events
The Interchange
T: 07920 792 387
E: victoria@interchange.io

(website: www.interchange.io)

By Melissa Paulden 

Known as Europe's largest multi-arts and conference venue the Barbican – complete ten event spaces - is working with other cultural organisations in the City of London to form a cultural hub. That energy is evident when you walk through the doors. 

On the evening of our visit – 11^th July - children happily tinkered on steel drums as our party made its way (with a spring in their step!) to the 4^th floor. There, a Conservatory Terrace with views of the tropical plants below greeted our group as they mingled whilst being served cocktails, bubbles and some super tasty city scones by Searcys.

On 27^th June the first meeting of The BNC Gives Back group was scheduled. It was meant to be the launchpad for a gathering of minds from both sides of the supplier-buyer chain who have signed up to a group project to help charities in the UK and aboard.

However, a wee football tournament in France saw England otherwise occupied. The fact that the team hit ‘icy’ wall and were booted from the tournament is another matter, but we’ll leave that one there..... So the canapés were put on hold, the drinks stayed in their bottles and the leafy Conservatory of the Barbican sat poised and waiting for our event to recommence two weeks later. 

Why were we meeting?

Hoteliers and venue managers gathered to celebrate charity work and to make plans for team efforts under The BNC Gives Back umbrella. Sharing tips, ideas and examples for not just each others’ corporate social responsibility schemes but for individual volunteer and charity passions the group made plans for working towards a common goal: doing charity work together as a BNC team and cementing relationships as well.

What is The BNC Gives Back initiative?

BNC Gives Back will see buyers and suppliers making a commitment to themselves, their companies and to the Club by pledging to complete charity or community work between now and the end of the year. We will do some of the work as a group. Ideas for ‘giving back’ were: 

donating expertise; volunteering at a foodbank or homeless centres/animal shelters; working with the elderly; collecting shoes/clothes for other countries and more. Other members are going to take on a personal challenge such as a long distance run or a cycle ride. 

One suggestion that The BNC team will take on board immediately is having a ‘donate my gift’ section on the BNC Event Shows website so that show guests can pay their goody bags and gifts forward.

By completing a piece of charity work (and then hopefully continuing with it) it will then qualify the event professionals for a four-day international BNC Corporate Gives Back Forum in Portugal where we will focus on personal and professional development and help a good cause whilst on location. 

What is The BNC Corporate Gives Back Forum

The BNC Corporate Gives Back Forum will be a Forum like no other – yes we will try to solve event problems, debate industry issues and share best practices and recommendations for leading suppliers and top destinations but there’s more: in and around the networking sessions the 60-strong group will have individual meetings, tours of the local area, celebration dinners, some much- valued personal time and then we will unite to work on a local project that requires a helping hand, such as a school or community group that needs painting or gardening done. 

 “The BNC Shows are a great way to meet lots of excellent event managers in one day but our BNC Forums will be the best way to spend quality time with these quality buyers. This is networking, but in a way that benefits others,” says The BNC’s Director Kim Paulden.

“Tonight’s first meeting has shown what great people we have in the club. The bringing together of so many amazing minds and energy will benefit so many good causes. I am really excited about taking this forward.”

It’s not too late!

To join in with The BNC Gives Back Forum please write to:

Suppliers: kimpaulden@thebnc.co.uk

Buyers: emily@bnceventshows.com

By Melissa Paulden 

The 19th century building’s main hall came alive with a quirky displays of what is currently hot in the events industry right now.

Towering over one corner of the marble pillared hall was the Jockey Club’s life-size race horse and over in another corner a whimsical trolley from The Ideas Box tempted passers by with sweet treats.

In the garden room the – rare and welcome - sunny weather beyond the wall-to-wall glass doors wasn’t the attraction; it was Superbooths’ Selfie Mirror. A simple concept – a camera embedded in a six-foot opulent silver mirror – but it captivated everyone’s attention. Eventprofs took it in turn to strike a pose and each took home a branded printed out photo.

When not having fun in the aisles, chatting to everyone from Accor Hotels to London Zoo buyers had the option to up their skills by attending quality seminars.

So much knowledge was being shared on the day by professionals from Glisser, Noodle, Hotel Desk and more.

And contained within those seminars were other points of learning. Take James from Event Tech Lab, for example. What a seminar that was! After explaining what the Lab does – a not for profit that supports and mentors start-ups – he went on to list over ten ‘to watch for’ companies that are offering the next phase in apps or registration products. Fascinating stuff. (For a full list please email melissapaulden@thebnc.co.uk)

It wouldn’t be The BNC without a mixture of recommendation sharing and debate and Jo Egan and Sarah Lawrence inspired that with their ‘Agency vs in-house’ session. Extra chairs had to be brought in to the seminar space as buyers from both sides crammed the room.

“There’s just not enough transparency with an agency,” began a corporate buyer candidly. “On the whole they don’t look at my needs they just look at the job, treat it as a job, and care about what they are getting from the hotel.”

“It’s about knowing the right questions and when to ask them,” said Jo of Hotel Desk. “We are in a very unregulated industry and people’s experiences differ wildly from one company to the next unfortunately.

“My advice to you would be: get your suppliers to walk through the brief with you and to ask how and why they choose their preferred suppliers and ask them what’s your financial arrangement with the hotel(s)? and ask for a breakdown of their earnings from all the different elements to your event.

Other discussions on the table were about when to benchmark (if you have been using the same agency for years) creativity and the (sometimes) lack of it from agents; dealing with procurement departments; and what to include in a briefing document.

The room then shared recommendations for good agencies, sharing names of venue finding agencies ‘who care about you and whom you can trust’. Here’s a good case study:

“I have found a good production agency and I trust them implicitly. They have become such a part of our team – even to the point that they wear our branded shirts during the event – and they think about me as part of their team. I couldn’t do without them and feel that they’ve always ‘got my back’. They go above and beyond what is asked of them.” 

Following on from this successful debate The BNC Transparency Committee promised to meet again to really move the buyer issues and initiatives forward.

On a lighter note, there were dozens of prizes handed out to show visitors throughout the day. From two-night stays to two pairs of knock-out designer Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo shoes there was something for everyone. With a 1 in 19 chance of all guests winning a prize excitement was high and  when names were called out the room collectively held its breath!

None were more thrilled and appreciative to win a big BNC Event Show prize than Lucy of Penfold Events who shrieked, then cried, then yelped and shouted with glee:

“This is the best day of my life. Well, no. Hang on a minute. The best day of my life was when my son was born, then my wedding, so this is the third best day of my life! I have wanted a Mulberry handbag every since I was 18. I’m not going to use it for special occasions – I’m going to be using this every day!!”

The show finished with a light drop of Champagne courtesy of The Jockey Club where lots of stand exhibitors shared stories of the day:

Hotel Collection: “We only booked two weeks ago and I’m glad that we did as it’s been really, really worthwhile.”

Visit Flanders: “It’s been a really good show. Visitors to the stand have been really good buyers and therefore really interested in what we do. There is a lot more to Belgium than Brussels, such as the new conference centre in Antwerp for instance, and today has given us the opportunity to share that.”

Curzon Cinema: “This is our first BNC Event Show and I have been really impressed by the organisation of it all and by the quality of stand visitors. I have received lots of interest and have 52 leads and five solid proposals to write-up when I get back to the office.”

By Melissa Paulden 

Being creative and as curious as ever, The BNC Directors wanted to see if this 'zany' venue would appeal to big kids too, and it certainly did. Over 200 event professionals and suppliers joined together for The BNC Grand Dinner, an annual evening of 'thanks and celebration' for clients and guests of The BNC Event Shows.

Tucked away in an unassuming corner near M&S in London's Westfields, Kidzania is an oasis of fun for kids of all ages. There are 60 activities to explore over two floors in a 'kid sized' city starting with your 'arrival' through an airport departure lounge complete with check-in desks and boarding passes. Visitors to this multi-million pound complex then take a true exit from reality into a land where time suspends and dreams come true.

With 22 venues all over the world Kidzania has left nothing out in its planning. There are roads and buildings, a city square, shops and offices, a music studio, tv station, recycling plant, football stadium, theatre and more, – even the ceiling is covered with a blue and cloudy sky.

It's a place where kids can be kids – run around and be their own bosses, get messy with chocolate and do lots of dressing up but for grown ups the appeal is just as exciting: be who you always wanted to be, live out a fantasy of an alternative career as a weather presenter, rock star or fire fighter and let all of your stresses disappear as you indulge in childhood dreams. What a great place for a staff party, end of year thank you or incentive.

The evening started off with a drinks reception with a difference. With Champagne or cocktail in hand guests started their tour of this wonder-city, sampling what it's like to be a chocolatier in Cadbury's, reading an autocue as a live TV presenter in a fully equipped studio, learning how to be a drummer in the Roland Music Academy or acting the part as a member of British Airways' cabin crew academy. Ice cream making in the Walls factory had people queuing up in their dozens!

When playtime was over, the dinner bell rang and guests headed to the main square to eat 'al fresco' on tables of eight. Lots of networking took place over a Payne & Gunter triumphant three-course meal (the vegetarian was particularly outstanding) and on every table, we're sure, there was a 'what did you want to be when you were younger' kind of conversation that a place like Kidzania would inspire.

Speeches on the night from BNC Directors Kim Paulden and Alec Mumford talked of the new location of The BNC Summer Show (Gibson Hall, 6th July) and launch of a new initiative: The BNC Gives Back Corporate Networking Forum (January 17th-21st 2017 in Portugal) and guests were treated to complimentary tickets to a new production from The BNC Event Shows team – The London Motor Show (Battersea Evolution, 5th-8th May).

"The events industry is known for having a good time with Champagne so we wanted to do something different and really special," announced Kim Paulden of The BNC Gives Back Forum launch. "We're really excited about this: it's where buyers and suppliers will head to Portugal for three days of really great networking but before they join us, they must have completed some sort of charity work.

"We want to show that BNC members care about the world, care about people. The events industry is a very friendly industry and there are some amazing event managers who share knowledge with each other through The BNC. This is a great industry to be in and we hope you'll come on this journey with us."

After dinner the party headed to Kidzania's mini sports stadium to dance into the night to the live sound of the stunning Urban Soul Orchestra. With glasses in one hand and giant lollipops in the other (taken from the fun table centrepieces!), everyone had a great time.

The #BNCrecommends Kidzania – just one tip: plan lots of time to explore the city so that your guests don't stamp their feet, drop their shoulders and cry 'but whyyyyyy?' when you call them in for dinner.

The BNC is proud to announce that following a game of 'heads or tails' just under £500 was raised for Kidney Research UK, a charity close to the winner's (Laura Henwood from Event Prop Hire) heart.

Other prizes given out on the night were:
The Lancaster London and Hotel Desk - Dinner for two at Nipa Thai at The Lancaster London

Visit Belfast and Hotel Desk - A two-night trip to Belfast for two including flights and accommodation at one of the Hastings Hotels and the Galgorm Resort and Spa
Royal Garden Hotel - A night's stay in a Garden Suite for two with a traditional English breakfast

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts - A night's weekend stay for two including breakfast at the Andaz London Liverpool Street
Chocolate Tasting with Hotel Chocolat

If you would like to be at our next #BNCGrandDinner let us know

kimpaulden@thebnc.co.uk

By Melissa Paulden 

"Really great show that gets better every year"

We could tell you all day long how great we are but thats not how The BNC works - we will let everyone else, probably the hardest audience of qualified buyers and event professionals, do that for us

"Another successful event! I hope you feel that way as I really enjoyed the afternoon and met some new suppliers that I will use this year. Plus I got to catch up with a number of industry contacts and peers which is always good. Well done. You guys have definitely found a winning formula to bring suppliers and buyers together in an informal environment – who needs Confex?!"... Schroders

"great show" - Grass Roots

"Hi Kim, Thank you and congratulations on a great BNC Global Event Show yesterday. My visit was short & sharp, but very targeted, there were three companies that I wanted to see specifically and another two that I met and swapped details with because they could come in handy. I really appreciated the number of exhibitors and the sausage roll was inspirational (I am a man of simple tastes!). Please pass on my thanks to the BNC team and the rest of the organising party for yet another top event and also to the companies that supplied the very nice delegate gifts."... Chivas Brothers

"fantastic show."... CWC Group Limited

"Dear BNC Team, Thanks for inviting me along to the show. It has been so useful for me as I was looking for a venue for 450 for our sales conference in June, and had lots of very exciting ideas. Nothing has been firmed up yet but hopefully it will be soon. We as the events team at BI always went to Confex but I think your show is now so much better than that. We haven't been to Confex for years now. It was also lovely to network with a few people I know from previous events. Thanks again for a brilliant show"... Boehringer Ingelheim Ltd

"Hi Kim, I am just on the train on my long journey back home but I just wanted to thank you and the team for putting together such a great event. I have been to other shows like Confex and the meeting show, however the BNC show was by far superior and I actually got so much out of it. I have connected with new suppliers and reconnected with old suppliers and industry peers. I cant stress enough what a fantastic job you all do at BNC...it is a breath of fresh air! Thanks once again for all of the fantastic work that the BNC are doing and a great show."... B&Q

"I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you for my beautiful bag. It arrived at the end of last week and I have been admiring it all weekend. It is perfect especially as it is Santander red. The show was absolutely fantastic and very useful as always – it’s the only show I make time to go to. Thank you so much again."... Santander

“Well done for another great show, you all excelled yourselves this year, for us the best show with you guys with regards to quality footfall and interest in Hever Castle. We left feeling very positive about the new contacts we made and familiar faces we were able to remind of the unbeatable virtues of our beautiful venue.”... HEVER CASTLE

“Great show today Kim, im pretty sure you can book us in for next year!!”... Center Parcs Conferences and Events

“Hi Kim, I just wanted to drop you a line to say I thought yesterday was a fantastic show, the suppliers that supported you were really a first class selection of venues, catering companies and event companies. I made many new contacts and caught up with a lot of old contacts in one day which saves me an unmeasureable amount of time. I attended the talk from Saatchi C&M and thought it was succinct and something that I could use every time I plan an event or marketing campaign. For me this really is the unmissable show of the year, well done to you and your team for pulling this off!” … Friends Life

“Fantastic show thank you for organising such a great event from all the Ardencote team”

"I had such a great time at the BNC this year, it was a great opportunity to walk round with clients and see so many different suppliers there. I could have stayed longer and will keep the afternoon as well as the morning free next February! I had not expected to walk the show 3 times with 3 different clients who had all approached me prior to the date asking if I was going to be there. Thank you Kim for letting me attend with my agency hat on!! I picked up 3 new venue finding enquiries from these clients the following day which I also wasn't expecting and we are now in the throes of arranging site visits and appointments with the relevant suppliers. At one point when I was introducing some of the buyers to each other someone mentioned I should have my own stand! I was pleased to tell them that actually in July I will have a stand under the Caledonian Club and will be on the supplier side"... Event agency

Do you have anything to say? We like to hear the not so good things too!

We continually strive to provide the RIGHT kind of platforms for the most successful combination of people to meet, discuss, share, advise, listen, talk, learn and do business together.

Contact us now

Cliveden one of those places that has 'the best 'of everything: the best food (André Garrett), the best grounds to explore (National Trust), the best history (all that Profumo drama and scandal –ooo!), the best service and the best ever beds and pillows (– really, everyone agreed – we slept like babies cocooned in angel wings on mountains of marshmallows.) It was the ideal location to get some superior r&r whilst doing business with likeminded professionals.

The BNC Forum was designed to ensure that busy event managers didn't lose too much time away from the office and this appealed to many who joined us for some or all of the 24hours. By whisking the group away to an enchanting place like Cliveden time seemed to stop and every minute was thoroughly enjoyed.

At 4pm on Thursday 21st January a Mad Hatter's Tea Party in the French Dining Room ensured that the our five suppliers and 20 buyers from media firms, financial institutions, retail companies, law firms and more, got to know each other in a fun and informal setting.

The table was laid in a whimsical fashion and the most scrumptious afternoon tea was served to everyone's delight. The kitchen and serving staff was outstanding in catering for a number of different dietary requirements and the event left everyone excited for what lay ahead.

Pre dinner drinks were served in the neighbouring Library, a warm and cosy place to meet for cocktails and chats. Lots of networking continued from there into the French Dining Room where over a delicious dinner Sales Director Lisa Lernoux-Dock and General Manager Sue Williams enthralled our guests with charming tales of Cliveden's history.

"This event is SO BNC," began Lisa. "Classy, professional, but fun and you've come to the best place – Cliveden – the ultimate party and meeting house. Queen Victoria stayed here for 40 days; Churchill, Roosevelt and other big-name politicians have visited. There's such fascinating history here – in fact it's steeped in the table you're eating dinner on! This is THE most significant of all the 23 Grade I listed houses in the country."

After three fabulous courses our group were then treated to wine tasting in the Cellar. Along the way to the secluded downstairs space it become clear we were entering former servants' quarters. Our guests remarked on the property's 'Downton Abbey-esque' features such as rows of bells linking to each of the grand rooms above and lots of photos were taken and plans for future events were being starting to build in their minds.

After sampling some excellent wines and learning about their qualities, free time was offered to our guests. A private bar opened for our party and, just for a bit of fun, karaoke was on offer for a short time before everyone got a fairly early night!

The next day the meetings and networking began early after a wonderful breakfast in the André Garrett restaurant.
Groups split into threes and each rotated throughout the morning to participate in:

- a tour of sister property Hedsor House
- networking sessions on industry issues
- 2:1 meetings with suppliers

Emma Carroll of indigo at The O2
Anna Hayward of Dorchester Collection
Lisa Lernoux-Dock of Cliveden and Chewton Glen
Glen Mainwaring of the Barbican
Samantha Parker of BMA House.

Networking sessions were held in The Boudoir – a meeting space full of character complete with cosy armchairs, a roaring fire and views of the famous Cliveden gardens. What a perfectly uplifting place for meetings on a cold and wet January morning!

Topics covered were: teams merging and how to deal with changes; event technology and learning to develop and use apps; attaining the best work life balance; education and its pluses and pitfalls; VAT and transparency; contracts and cancellations and more. As always, lots of tips were passed on and recommendations shared for the best venues, products and services in the UK and abroad.

After a morning of thoroughly enjoyable discussions and networking the group reconvened in the French Dining Room for a hearty lunch followed by a talk by adventurer Tom Clowes. Tom talked of the numerous challenges he faced when climbing Mount Everest and he kept the group's attention with his messages of perseverance, self belief and goal setting.

Before everyone left at 4pm The BNC's Director Kim Paulden thanked everyone for attending.
"We've held some fantastic events in the past and some amazing venues but this one will be hard to beat," admits Kim Paulden, The BNC's director. "Thank you to Lisa and team for hosting the first of many UK BNC Forums and for ensuring that everything ran so smoothly. We have been really well looked after here and I think it's safe to say The BNC will keep on recommending Cliveden."

Exciting news of the next BNC Forum was unveiled by Kim: The BNC Gives Back Corporate Forum will take place 19th - 22nd January 2017 at the Dolce Camporeal Hotel , Lisbon, Portugal. 50 buyers and 50 suppliers will be invited to attend. To qualify they must each fulfil at least 8 hours' community/charity work during 2016.

Join us in Portugal next year to be apart of The BNC Gives Back Corporate Networking Forum.

For more information please contact: melissapaulden@thebnc.co.uk

THANK YOUS from just a few of our BNC Forum attendees:

Just wanted to say thanks to you, Alec and the team for a wonderful forum last week. You know already what a fantastic setting Cliveden House was, but in case it needed saying I thought it was lovely(!)

The main star of the show though was what a wonderful opportunity it was to get together with fellow events professionals and really talk about the issues we're currently facing. I learned so much from everyone whilst having a lot of fun! To top it all off I met some great people who it will be a pleasure to keep in touch with so a huge thank you to the BNC for letting me be involved.

Can't wait for the show on the 17th!
Sophie

Hi Kim,

A BIG thank you to you and your team for the forum at Cliveden House. It was a great opportunity to experience an absolutely stunning venue from a client's perspective whilst also networking with fellow event planners and expanding my venue knowledge with your additional suppliers. It certainly has got the brain wandering where I can put some of these venues to use. Tom was a great addition to the programme – very inspirational and I now know that I never want to climb Mount Everest!

It must have taken a lot of planning so thanks again, I hope you too thought it was a successful first forum and I'm looking forward to the showcase event in February.

Kind regards
Alex

Hi Kim

I just wanted to say a big thank you for a fantastic networking event. I enjoyed the opportunity to network with both suppliers and peers in such beautiful surroundings.

It was a pleasure to meet you and I look forward to future events.

Regards
Annette

Hi Kim,

I just wanted to say a big thank you to you and your team for a great offsite at the end of last week. It was a lovely way to make new connections and also really valuable content.

Kindest regards
Claire

HI Kim,

Just a quick note to thank you, Alec, Melissa, Charles and all the team members for organising such an excellent BNC event last week at Cliveden.

I cannot fault the organisation with varying interactive elements and plenty of time to network with industry peers and suppliers. It was a very worthwhile time away from the office and I certainly learnt some new things. Obviously the venue was to die for, but ultimately it was the programme that made it a success. Please pass on my gratitude to everyone who was involved in making the event possible.

The BNC goes from strength to strength!

Kind regards
Viki

By Melissa Paulden 

It's facade is like many other buildings in London. A smart mixture of clean creams and greys; neat, officey windows and an air of well-to-doness.

Walk through those doors, however (following behind a string of rock stars and rich kids) and you are bowled over by new world uniqueness. Colour, light and warmth hits you so hard that you need to sit down on one of the lobby's vintage chairs and ask yourself what kind of teletransportation has just happened? Where am I? A ski lodge in Vermont? A loft apartment in New York? Is this a hotel at all? It feels........different.

Then the smiley faces bring you back to life again. (The staff are busy but never too busy to stop and smile and ask if they can help.) They all look the same in relaxed, comfortable attire: who is in charge? who is the concierge? You're still unsettled......where's the check-in desk? have I walked into the wrong building? Then you let the brain readjust: AHA! This IS a hotel but it is a DIFFERENT kind of hotel. This is fun and new and......I LIKE IT!

We were invited by Director of Sales and Marketing Anjie Keegal and team to hold the second of our BNC Transparency Committee meetings in the three-year-old hotel's boardroom, or Room 100, as it is called.

As the hotel's only space for formal meetings, a great deal of care and attention has gone in to its design. It can seat 22 (or be split into two spaces for 10 and six) plus it has all the necessary additions - a state-of-the-art projector, plasma screen, conference phone and WiFi. It's an attractive room with long solid oak tables, succulent plants adding some rich greenery, dynamic floor to ceiling windows and chairs so large and comfy that you can fit your bottom and your briefcase on, side by side. It's an impressive room and one that would suit a serious board meeting or a stylish dinner party.

We had afternoon tea which was served so discreetly and crafted to perfection. Our group could choose from a selection of scrummy cupcakes or an abundance of fresh fruit – as well as enjoy array of delicate teas. However, you could also have a working lunch in this room and you wouldn't feel tired or bored of having 'the whole' event in the same space. It is just so inviting and a place to relax as well as get business done.

And that we did. We had a successful second meeting where lively and meaningful discussions took place between corporate event managers, venue finding agencies, conference agencies and venues. Much progress was made (such as the development of a charter and discussing the appointment of co-chairs) and we are looking forward to our next meeting at The BNC Event Show on 17th February 2016 at London's The Brewery.

After our meeting we were treated to a show-round of this amazing property. We stepped out of our secluded boardroom and back into the buzz of the main part of the hotel. It was early evening by then and the foyer and bar were busy with social and business gatherings. We had a tour of the bar (which has inviting nooks for cosy drinks - plus a cigar machine!); a quick peek at The Terrace (a stylish indoor/outdoor room with a removable roof and lots of potential for private dinner parties); a look around the restaurant and a trip up to the top floors to see some of the bedrooms whose bold and inviting interiors drew lots of 'oooos' and 'aahhhs' from our crowd of event professionals who were obvious in their approval of a hotel that has raised the bar in terms of comfortable luxury.

Belgraves is a hotel of wild and crazy – yet appealing – juxtapositions: its design is cool yet so warm and inviting; it's jean and checked shirt wearing staff are some of the most polite and professional in London; it's outdoor 'cigarden' makes you feel like you're inside and it's suite with a bath on the balcony (in full view of others!) leave you agape in curious wonder.

Style may be key to capture the elitist and the cool kids but built into style are elements that will please the seasoned hotel stayer. There's no carpet in the bedrooms for instance (a yay for germaphobes out there!) and Tara Bernerd, the hotel's hip interior designer, constantly changes artwork and decor in the main areas so that regulars see something new each time they visit.

Pick a hotel like this and you will show your delegates and clients that you know what is cool and current but also what is quality. Belgraves is the king of boutique hotels and is a place that you'd want to return to time and time again for events or to enjoy it as a guest.

Many thanks to Anjie, Amelia and Marie for introducing us to an amazing hotel.

By Melissa Paulden 

It seems like in the UK Christmas can't come quick enough this year. With the adverts already on television, countdown messages on social media and shops bursting with displays that are merry and bright Christmas is well and truly upon us. So for The BNC it seemed the perfect time to hold its annual Christmas bash and as usual, its directors went for a something big and dramatic, forever memorable and a little.... 'unusual.'

On 10th November 200 buyers and suppliers were invited for an evening of festive networking at The Playboy Club London, a relatively new venue on the corporate events scene. Offering a variety of classy and stylish spaces to hold parties, launches shows and the like, this private members' club gives business events an indulgent and glamorous edge.

Whether you combine the two areas on the ground floor (each has its own entrance) or keep them separate, event planners can be assured that this stunning Mayfair venue has the exclusivity clients or colleagues may require. The venue's Sales Manager, Layla Jensen, has more:

"We can accommodate small groups in Salvatore's Bar; big dinners up to 80 in Baroque and receptions up to 200. You can combine Salvatore's and Baroque and hold up to 375 guests for a standing reception. We also have a state of the art sound system and we can recommend a fabulous band or DJ to suit your needs, as well as incorporate fun or live casino into your event.
"What differentiates us from other venues is that  we have the Playboy Bunnies as valet hosts for events. This will make an event stand out as the girls are a great addition to any party."

As The BNC Event Shows are a one-day show, the team strives to give suppliers and buyers othershow-stopping ways to get together for relaxed and informal networking throughout the year and this Christmas party is one of those occasions. It delivered just what was needed and we were well looked after.

The stunning Salvatore's Bar (managed by the legendary cocktail creator Salvatore Calabrese) was our first meeting point for some BNC networking where a Bellini welcome drink greeted guests. With its gold, black and cream interior Salvatore's Bar oozes style. Comfortable seating made this a great place to network where conversations were about the charming way the Playboy emblem was built discreetly into designs (such as the elegant wooden screens) or the impressive display of vintage bottles behind the bar. There were a few bunny sightings at this point and they were all immaculate and charming, happily posing for photos.

Once all the guests had arrived double doors to Baroque – a separate and much larger events space with a built-in stage - opened up to reveal bunnies pouring Champagne into a tower of decadently etched crystal glasses. Smooth covers band Animal House belted out party songs to get everyone moving and people could visit the bar, take a spin on the dance floor or the Roulette table plus tuck in to delicious bowl food such as 'nice' tuna Niçoise or 'naughty' mini beef burgers.

A few announcements were made on the evening from The BNC Event Show Directors Kim Paulden and Alec Mumford before they launched into the annual sing-a-long song with this year's choice of Let it Snow.

After the fun of singing and games there was a chance for more networking until the carriages awaited our guests for their departure. But no one left empty handed as a luxurious Selfridges hamper was up for grabs to all corporates who attended on the night, courtesy of many confirmed exhibitors of our February 2016 BNC Event Show.

When we sent out invitations to a party at The Playboy Club no doubt a few feminists' eyebrows were raised in horror. However, like all the best parties at all the best clubs this one was sold out (complete with a waiting list) and one lady even came, determined to party, with her leg in full cast after an accident.

Once inside and all dressed in their sparkly best it was clear to our guests that this venue was less about tacky gimmicks and more about old fashioned service with a smile – and a tail! – and a good time was had by all. There's definitely a place for Playboy Club London in the corporate events market – it might not be for everybunny (sorry) but for the right groups and for the right events it delivers.

Throughout the evening the bunnies did a wonderful job with much grace and panache. For some reason, things seemed a lot more dramatic when someone with a bowtie, silky leotard and cotton-white bunny tail took care of hospitality. They were good luck charms on the Roulette table and they also helped to run an audience participation game where the prize for the last eventprof standing in a series of 'true or false' questions was a glorious pair of Jimmy Choos, perfect for the party season upon us.

As Layla Jensen says: "Having the Playboy Bunnies as valet hosts for events will make an event stand out as the girls are a great addition to any party. I would say keep an open mind and come visit the venue, you will be pleasantly surprised."

From all The BNC and BNC Event Shows Team we wish you a very Happy Christmas – and see you in 2016.

Make sure you are at our next BNC Global Event Show on the 17th of February 2016 at The Brewery, London and there is another chance to meet more buyers and suppliers in April. See you then!

Contacts from the night

The Playboy Club
Layla Jensen (Sales Manager)
LJensen@playboyclublondon.com
020 7514 9038

The Band:
Animal House
Contact Frosty
bookings@animalhouserocks.co.uk
07803 598 287

Photographer
Ian Legge
07787 702 453
ian@il-online.co.uk
www.il-online.co.uk

Thank yous

'Thank you and all the organizers for such a fun night! What a surprise the Playboy Club is such a nice venue. Please cascade my thank you to the rest of the team.'
Gioia Valentina Peruzzo
The Savoy

'Thanks for your email and thank you all so much for a fabulous night! It was my first Christmas party of the season, and a great way to start it off! The hamper was completely decadent and lovely, so thank you to the suppliers that made this possible.
Look forward to the next event in February!'
Ana
Liberty Global

'Thank YOU!!! I had a brilliant evening and made some unusual contacts.'
Sandra
SPMSD

'Thanks so much for the invitation; it was an amazing party as usual!'
Stephanie Allard
Searcys Club

'I just wanted to say a massive thank you for Tuesday night.
It was such a lovely evening and so nice to finally meet you all!
It was a fantastic evening of networking and I met some suppliers I hadn't met before and it gave me a chance to build relationship with like-minded people in the industry.
I can't wait for February!'
Emma
UK Trade & Investment

'I just wanted to send my thanks for a lovely evening at The Playboy Club last night.  It was really fun and great to connect with some old faces plus some new ones as well.  Thanks so much for organising it.
It was good to check out a new venue too - I wasn't aware you could hire out the Playboy Club! And of course not forgetting the fabulous hamper :)'
Helen
McKinsey & Company

'Just to say thank you for a lovely evening, it was our first Christmas networking event and it was great.  Thank you so much for the Selfridges hamper and pass on our thanks to the sponsor, it is wonderful.'
Melanie
Bilfinger

'Just to say a huge thank you to you all for yesterday's meeting and xmas party – lots of smiley, jolly faces and as ever so perfectly executed.'
Joanne Egan
Hotel Desk

'It was very nice to meet you at last yesterday evening and my industry colleagues.  I just wished to thank you very much for a splendid evening.  I'd never been to the venue before and is a lovely place with great entertainment, superb champagne and a goodie bag. Thank you very much for the invitation, I had a superb evening - And I nearly won the Jimmy Choos!'
Caroll Everest
Everest Events

By Melissa Paulden 

Twelve buyers from diverse fields such as media, construction, insurance, auto, finance and retail got together to share knowledge and experiences and to discover ways of improving their own individual events.

Their missions were to “search for inspiration,” “get some fresh ideas,” “ensure that I am keeping best practices” and chatting together with BNC peers allowed them to do that and more.  

Whether they organise small events for less than a hundred or gala dinners for thousands our BNC members had many issues in common such as:

• choosing a decent speaker within budget

• selecting appropriate entertainment for certain audiences

• finding the right venue and suppliers

• capturing guests’ data and feedback.

During two hours of non-stop discussion there was an enthusiastic and positive exchange of ideas on many elements of managing the perfect awards dinner such as which running order works best; which walk-up stings to use and when; whether finalists’ photographs work on stage or away from the main area; how to manage sponsors so that mutual objectives are met; how to use branding effectively yet appropriately and whether or not to use a production company - and more!

Smart tips were passed around the group such as the best places to source up-and-coming (and on-budget) entertainment acts; creative ways to track feedback and how to use new online technologies that don’t cost a fortune.

Reminders on standard event procedures such as: ‘don’t release invites to a table booker until you have all of the names of their guests;’ ‘always share your operations plan with venue and agency staff – and ask for theirs;’ were useful when shared and agreed upon by like-minded peers.

Recommendations for top industry suppliers were given by all - from venues large and small to trophy engravers and event management software that delivers the perfect support to awards dinner managers.

“This was the first time that we focused on one specific topic at a BNC Networking Event and it was a really rewarding morning for all who took part,” comments The BNC’s Marketing Manager Melissa Paulden. “It’s healthy to balance all the online networking that takes place with a good old fashioned face-to-face networking session and much was achieved. Thanks to all those who attended.”

The BNC networkers really enjoyed the opportunity to come together for serious discussion on a common issue. They have asked for more events like this and The BNC is pleased to say that there will be three more forums dedicated to one subject throughout 2016 along with our main BNC Forum at Cliveden 21st-22nd January.

“Many thanks to The BNC for bringing us all together to discuss awards dinners,” said one attendee. “I went straight back to the office and put two things in place. It was a great meeting and I look forward to the next one.”

Full BNC members can write in for a list of recommended suppliers and notes from the meeting. For copies – and to register for the next BNC Networking Forum - please get in touch

With thanks to the events team from STEP for hosting the meeting.

By Melissa Paulden 

Following on from the launch of The BNC Transparency seminar at The BNC Event Show the purpose of this inaugural meeting was to gauge interest and participation levels and to set out guidelines and ways of working together going forward.

38 leading UK event managers showed interest in becoming part of the initial committee and attending the first meeting, with 11 being able to make it on the day. All holding event management and decision making roles, they came from the fields of building, retail, commercial property, global banking and UK financial institutions.

Over a breakfast of fresh fruit, sumptuous pastries, hot and cold refreshments – supplied, along with the room for the morning, courtesy of Anna Hayward and Lucy Sikora of The Dorchester Collection's Sales Team – the BNC Action Group got to work.

First they shared case studies of a range of incidences which signal the urgent call for transparency.

Such as: being unlawfully 'bumped' at short notice from hotel space that had been secured and booked months in advance; being over quoted by DMCs by as much as 40%; agents allegedly putting overrides in place and not reporting back to buyers with the full range of venues available; spaces being put on hold in the buyer's chosen hotel so that they are forced to choose the agent's 'preferred' hotel; extravagant gifts being offered to buyers in exchange for big pieces of business; being forced by one supplier to not talk to other suppliers in the event chain....and so on.

The aim?

The committee will steer a BNC transparency scheme where buyers can share stories of great events and ethical suppliers and where these ethical suppliers – both nationally and globally – can advertise their transparency through The BNC.

The ultimate aim of the group is to encourage suppliers to be more transparent in their accounting and to offer fair and just services. Vetted and approved suppliers will sign up to The BNC Transparency Charter and will be monitored regularly by staff and event managers who are members of The BNC.

The next stage of the Action Group is to create a list of aims and expectations then meet for a second time in November with key interested venues and agents present.

After the very successful two and a half hour meeting the group were pleased to enjoy a leisurely show-round courtesy of sales manager Patrick Antille of the five-star Dorchester Hotel.

Due to full capacity no bedrooms were available but we were pleased to be able to see the decadent Penthouse Suite, the fabulous Ballroom (home of the legendary BNC Grand Dinner earlier this year), the unique Crystal Suite, the Park Suite (loaded with natural daylight) and several dining spaces.

Our group was made up in equal measures of:
- event managers who have used the venue before and were pleased to have a 'refresher' site visit
- people who had booked the venue for 2016 and found the show-round helpful to revisit logistics for the event and bounce ideas off of other event managers (opinions on where tables should go etc.)
- those who had never been to the property before and were glad of the opportunity for a mini-fam with like minded event professionals.

Our thanks to the team at The Dorchester for hosting our event.

If you would like any more information on the event itself or if you would like to join the committee, please email: melissapaulden@thebnc.co.uk

The show on the boat that really rocks was the last time this showboat will hold The BNC Summer Event Show as it has to sail up the Thames to dry docks.

Keep in touch to find out which exclusive venue will hold next years Summer BNC Event Show

The weather was hot but the leads were even hotter with over 500 of the UK's top corporate event managers on board making this last event on the ship a truly memorable one.

A sold-out ship with fantastic networking, fun games and fabulous prizes were all aboard at this event

'Call my Bluff' was a hot hit. Guests were able to cool off with a chilled glass of Rosé from Eddie McGee of Le Saint Tropez Rosé Company and to top it off, every hour a magnum of Rosé was won!

Estee Lauder provided an amazing goodie bag gift for the first 500 attendees and you could also meet them on the ship where they were spoiling guests with a pampering session.

'Touch and Glow'

For the first time ever at The BNC Event Shows, Poken were bringing people together with a high five, swapping essential contact information and promotional materials with the hottest new device on the market.

Delivering digital business cards and brochures on this sizzling summer day was a pure pleasure as no-one wanted to be carrying around unnecessary paper which would no doubt be turned into a make shift fan!

Most of us are now using the new NFC technology such as the contactless payment method of debit cards – saving precious time this innovative device works in the same way but by swapping details with the corporates and suppliers you met on the day.

We have had some great comments about Poken, if you would like to share your discoveries please let us know

Exhibitors got in the give-away spirit with ice creams from Movenpick and sunglasses from Double Dutch and The Felbridge Hotel and Spa which more than helped with the summer sun as there was no dress code for the day - shorts and deck shoes were granted permission to board!

Lip-smaking and smoking hot the BBQ was ablaze on the Sun deck with an array of Asian inspired aliments for ALL to enjoy, complimentary of course as always at The BNC Event Shows

Smashing Summer Seminars to inform and inspire were on the line up:

Transparency, agencies, event tools and technologies, proofing and more where the red-hot topics talked about in the Seminar programmes. Have you got something to say or would like to be at our next show? Contact us now to see how

On the day The Buyers' Networking Club launched the brand new BNC Transparency Action Group.

Working towards Event Industry Change The BNC are fighting the corporate corner and calling time on agencies and suppliers who:

• Charge inflated commission
• Hide their accounts
• Enforce overrides

We will be organising our first meeting soon and you are welcome! The more eventprofs we have on board the faster we can influence the industry.

Email your interest to: melissapaulden@thebnc.co.uk

Are you a supplier? You can make a change to. We are hearing more and more stories were the corporates are not using agents, DMCs, Hotels and other suppliers for their events as they have been ripped off in the past. Stop this happening to you and join us now.

We will be giving venues and suppliers our seal of approval to those who want to stand up and make a change. Be confident and get more bookings by being backed with the BNC Transparent logo.

"The BNC just goes from strength to strength, long may it continue."... Jo, Events Manager from Linklaters

Like our BNC Event Shows?
Then you'll LOVE our BNC Forums!

We are bringing back the beloved BNC Forum, providing engaging, productive and rewarding opportunities for you to discuss industry issues with like-minded event professionals in an outstanding venue

Who will be there:

• 30 event managers from the BNC
• 30 top suppliers in the UK

When: 21st - 22nd of January
Where: Cliveden in Berkshire

Come and network, connect and experience a motivating event, tailor made with you in mind

Register your interest today by emailing: melissapaulden@thebnc.co.uk

Found out more here

The Summer BNC Event Show is an amazing day of networking with other events industry professionals and it's a brilliant way to meet the best suppliers in the business right now.

Thank you to everyone who attended for another sensational Summer Show.

Our next show is at The Brewery on the 17th of February 2016 check here for more news

We would like to thank...

First of all thank you for another great BNC show.
Louise

I wanted to drop you a line to say thank you so much for yesterday's event. I got to speak to some new suppliers, and reconnect with old ones. Talking to Sue and Sarah was also enormously helpful now that I've expanded my role into international events. They gave me some brilliant advice.
Terri

A massive thank you to both you and Alec for a really great event. It was a great opportunity to discover some new venues, connect with old colleagues and the session by Dale was really interesting.
A big thank you,
Alice

Thank you for an amazing show last week. As always the quality of venues and suppliers exhibiting was top notch and it was nice to meet new people and catch up with old faces. Thank you also for the article in the show brochure – so funny to see myself in print!
Kind regards
Sarah

Hi there awesome team. Just wanted to say a BIG thank you for the amazing show on Wednesday – it was genuinely a huge success and a pleasure to attend.
Kind regards
Jonel

It was very well organised and you guys did a marvelous job in managing the heat.Thank you again for your support and smiling faces.
Kind Regards,
PAULOMI

Thanks for the amazing show last week! I found it so useful networking with likeminded people and new suppliers.
Thanks
Emma

Thanks for another great BNC show, really looking forward to the next one!!
Marissa

Another great show! I made some new useful contacts and caught up with plenty of familiar faces. I was very impressed that despite the heat outside the temperature in the boat remained comfortable
Agi

Thanks for the show last week – it was great and I saw quite a few people I'll be doing business with.
Rachel

Thank you so much for a fantastic event yesterday. It was a very useful and informative day. It was so nice being spoiled and looked after for once, as normally I am doing the looking after.
Elke

Extra special thanks to The BNC recommended and best photographer going... Ian Legge

When Northern Belle - one of the many timeless passenger trains from the Belmond collection - came to London on 5th May The BNC just had to send some of its members aboard to sample the ultimate in luxury travel. 

Keen to experience the unique appeal of Belmond’s legendary style and service our group of corporate event managers joined over 100 other business travel professionals on Euston Station’s Platform 18 for a fam that required just a few hours out of the office but seemed like a world away.

Smartly dressed staff gave a red carpet welcome as they served canapés, mini dishes and glasses of bubbly to all. Livening up the platform with dreamy tunes from a bygone era was jazz band The Casablanca Steps who played Putting on the Ritz amongst other classics.

Stepping on to the gleaming, polished train our group were transported back in time to an age of class and refinement. They got to tour through the seven carriages - which are beautifully decorated and designed with craftsmanship, fabrics and fittings of the glorious 1930s – before settling down to enjoy the hospitality.

The attention to detail and clever theming of the carriages was something that impressed our group of experienced corporate event managers. That, and many other things about their once-in-a-lifetime excursion certainly didn’t disappoint.

Executive Assistant Marissa, from a credit management company, said that her expectations of the visit were high and they were easily met. Marissa was using the fam as research for a possible excursion for high level executives who are looking for something to do that is a cut above everything else.

“The Belmond Northern Belle offers a unique, special and memorable experience,” she says.

“It’s beautiful and has a lot of things worth doing. For senior leaders and clients I’m thinking of using it for a possible celebrity chef experience or visit to Ascot Racecourse.”

Lucy Clark, Director of Sales, Trains & Cruises, UK South & Nordic Countries adds: “Belmond Northern Belle is the perfect way to travel to some of the UK's most charming destinations such as Edinburgh, Bath, Portmeirion and the Lake District, as well as to events as such Ascot Ladies' Day and the Chelsea Flower Show.”

The Belmond Northern Belle seats 260 people and is available for private charter, or for smaller corporate groups. Regional departures are from across the Midlands, Northern England and Scotland.

About BNC Fam Trips:

As this example perfectly sets, The BNC likes to work with recommended suppliers who design fams with the busy corporate buyer in mind. This was a cleverly constructed three-hour fam, ensuring that participants only spent a few hours out of the office. Very often that is all that is needed to sample a venue, it’s service and atmosphere and to get a feel for how each individual’s events may work.

Only full BNC members may take part in Fam Trips. To upgrade your membership please email: kimpaulden@thebnc.co.uk  

About Belmond:

Belmond Ltd. is a global collection of exceptional hotel and luxury travel adventures in some of the world's most inspiring and enriching destinations. Established over 30 years ago with the acquisition of Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice, its unique and distinctive portfolio now embraces 45 hotel, rail and river cruise experiences in the world's most celebrated destinations. 

For enquiries, please visit our groups and events extranet: www.belmondevents.com or contact Director of Sales Lucy Clark on 020 3117 1392 or at lucy.clark@belmond.com

By Melissa Paulden 

The World Is Not Enough without the gadgets and gizmos, glitz and glam of a Bond film where fast cars and characters are thrown into action, deceit and drama - and The BNC Grand Dinner was set to provide all of that and more.

London's iconic Dorchester Hotel played host to this annual event that has set the industry talking and in true BNC style a well-loved events theme was taken, turned on its head and polished it until it shone.

This exciting 007 evening was a night to Live and Let Die and, more importantly, to say thank you to the exhibitors and attendees of The BNC Global Event Show held on the 18th of February 2015.

The Dorchester Ballroom was For Your Eyes Only - a fitting scene for the black tie event which later, after dinner and a Champagne reception, was transformed into a Casino Royale hotel. White gloved waiters served flutes of Champagne and (shaken, not stirred) cocktails were awaiting guests before a red carpet entrance. Staring down the barrel to the Quantum of Solace, guests stopped for pictures taken by Agent L ,otherwise known as Ian Legge the event photographer, all dressed like they had a Licence to Kill.

Guests were seated on five-foot round tables of seven, named after famous Bond film titles, and they each had the chance to talk and listen to everybody on the table with ease and comfort. They may have been sitting next to a Dr. No - no-one knew who was who at the start - but if there were any spies in the room this was the best format to interrogate them or just have fun, laugh and enjoy. By the end of the night they were all firm contacts, especially after taking part in the James Bond trivia quiz which brought out a certain competitive nature in everyone where they could all 'bond' together'.

The three-course menu was indulgently divine and delicious, and guests were spoilt for sure and with the smart service to match they couldn't ask for more. In between courses more luxury prizes were given, courtesy of the outstanding exhibitors.

Before the speeches, in a true James Bond style, two silhouettes appeared trapped behind softly lighted screens. They fought against one of Bond's female arch enemies Octopussy and were victorious and lived to Die Another Day.

Showing their appreciation to all guests who are a part of The BNC Shows, Directors Kim Paulden and Alec Mumford took to the stage talking about the success of the shows and thanking everyone for helping The BNC drive the standards of the industry to new measures in events.

An enchanting magician, Spencer Wood floated around the room bewildering guests playing tricks on their mind, whilst the Urban Soul Orchestra put on a striking performance, giving Bond theme tunes a swelling, classical lift. Marc JB later set the beat and tone as the evening progressed. Overall it was an mission that M would be proud of!

One of the highlights of the Diamonds are Forever evening was a real diamond displayed in a top secret Bond case and guarded by a henchman On Her Majesty's Secret Service.

A Thunderball lottery style game of heads and tales was played, where the last remaining contestant took home the £2.5K sparkler. For just £5 a go guests took part in this bit of fun with all proceeds going to two charities (The BNC would later match their contributions and split the donations equally.)

"What a memorable night" says BNC Director Kim Paulden. "Our thanks and appreciation goes out to all who attend our events. See you all on the ship on 19th July! From....... The BNC with Love."

With special thanks to the BNC recommended suppliers:

Ian Legge for the photography

DJ Marc JB

Also performing on the night was Spencer Wood and the Urban Soul Orchestra

See all the pictures here

The Best Show Yet!

On Wednesday the 18th of February 2015 The BNC Global Event Show proudly took to the Porter Tun room of London's The Brewery once again, welcoming suppliers and buyers to its sixth successful show.

This time the event manager's favourite show was given the royal seal of approval with HRH Prince Michael of Kent in attendance. The approachable and friendly first cousin to Her Majesty the Queen officially opened the show by cutting the red ribbon and saying a few words. Keen on promoting trade and travel, HRH was delighted to then visit standholders for photos, stopping to meet buyers in the aisles.

With a refreshing selection of new exhibitors and the return of suppliers who have been firm features from the start the buyers were spoilt for choice. Experienced Event Manager Lois Saville tweeted:

"@BNCEventShow Excellent show. Thank you to the BNC and all the exhibitors. I don't go to any other event show - no need, everyone here!!!"

and others wrote in afterwards to say:

"As far as I am concerned the BNC is the only event I need to attend each year."
Sandra, MSD

"I confess I was in awe of the show. What a stunning formula"
Penny
MPIE Ltd

"As always a great event, best in the business by far" Luci.

Adding even more substance to each buyers' visits was the seminar programme, a series of 15-minute talks by leading industry experts where every hot topic was discussed and every question answered from technology to adding personality in your events.

The keynote speaker, show president Ben Fogle, packed the presentation room with an inspirational and engaging talk on memorable destinations for incentive travel.

The professional adventurer spoke at not one but two sessions, highlighting his favourite UK and worldwide travel destinations and sharing honest tips from his personal travels that corporates can harness for their own events. Food critic and writer Tom Parker Bowles also delivered a passionate talk, discussing topical food trends with an impressed audience.

The trademark BNC fun and flair was evident throughout the day. There was lively networking taking place at every stand whether buyers stopped by for breakfast, visited for lunch or stayed all day.

Exhibitors were thrilled to meet Royalty and celebrities who each took the time to talk to everyone they could, stopping to take photos to show those who missed out! A certain famous Mr Grey was seen schmoozing on one of the stands, attracting fans of 50 Shades to the Hotel Desk area. Top prize for creativity goes to you and your colleagues, Joanne Egan!

Snapping a selfie with Christian Grey was reward enough for some but for an extra bonus there was the chance of winning prizes. It may be an unlucky number for some but those who came to the show had the chance of winning 13 grand prizes including Jimmy Choos and the iconic Mulberry Bayswater handbag. One of the lucky winners was Victoria who tweeted:

"@BNC4eventprofs @JimmyChooWorld I love my new shoes! #jimmychoo #cantbelieveiwon thank you!!!"

But that's not all...

At every BNC Event Show there is a Golden Stand competition. This year there were four top secret 'Golden Stands' (which none of the exhibitors knew about).

If you visited those four stands – and got the proof stamped on your passport - you had an amazing chance of winning one of TWO luxury 5* holidays: a week's all inclusive stay for two at Alpine Ski Resort Alpes D'Huez La Saenne including ski passes, flights and transfers courtesy of Club Med Groups and Incentives and five nights' stay for two in a junior suite with a seaview at Tropical Beach Hotel Hilton Phuket Resort & Spa including breakfast courtesy of Hilton Worldwide. Two incredible offers - what fantastic suppliers we have at The BNC!

Record numbers were recorded and we think it's safe to say it was a fantastic day for all. It was over too quick but if you didn't make it this time be sure to save the date for the next one:

The BNC Summer Event Show is on the 1st of JULY 2015, 8.30AM-6.00PM
on board HMS PRESIDENT 1918, Victoria Embankment, EC4Y 0HJ

You can sign up here

Don't miss out

See what the others said

I just emailed you to thank you for the BNC networking event on Wednesday last week. It was a great event and I made some new contacts and had some very useful discussions with people.
Always a useful event to attend thank you and your team for putting this together.
Many Thanks
Kara
Linklaters Law firm

As far as I am concerned the BNC is the only event I need to attend each year.
It is the only meeting that provides me with real value with an overall great experience, and experience is what makes an event memorable.
Many thanks
Sandra
Sanofi Pasteur MSD

Thank you for an amazing show! As ever the best and most helpful event gathering. Education was great and I got to give out four proposals for events on the spot! It's the only show I attend!
Sanjay
Field Fisher Law

Just wanted to say a quick but very big thank you for a wonderful day yesterday, again we found the show immensely useful – it was great to see so many familiar faces and also make new contacts – the day went far too quickly!
Thank you for inviting us along – it is now one of our favourite shows to attend and so much better than the larger tradeshows – works very well for us.
All the best
Martina Aberle
CL Venues

Hope you have managed to get some rest today and are having a feet-up week-end. You need it I should think.
I confess I was in awe of the show. What a stunning formula. Thank you so much and will definitely keep in touch from now on.
With very warm wishes
Penny
MPIE Ltd

A very belated congratulations to you and the entire team for yet another amazing Show on Wednesday. The best to date!
We all know and appreciate how much work goes into the organisation of these events and you are all true ambassadors of the Club.
Looking forward to the boat in the Summer already!
Kind regards
Jackie
Shire

I hope you are doing well and I just wanted to drop you a note as I attended the show on Wednesday and thought it was as usual brilliant and made some useful new contacts and met up with some former colleagues at the same time! It is by far the best industry event that I attend so always make sure I have it in my schedule!
Many thanks
Stacy
Capital Group

Just had to drop you an email to say what a great show today! I was there from around 9 - 12 but couldn't see you anywhere, did get a glimpse of HRH Prince Michael of Kent though, so had to make do with him! Caught up with Melissa which was nice.
You really have put so much thought into making it a show that buyers want to attend, realising that most are women, and just knowing what they like. The food was outstanding and the staff you had on duty were so helpful. Met Lizz McDonald who was really charming.
Equally for exhibitors, they know all of the attendees are qualified, so no time-wasters making it a show they want to be at because they get results.
Attended the 9.30 seminar on Intelligent Spaces - very helpful.
Hats off to you Kim, and the BNC team. I believe the show was even better than last year - congratulations!!!!
Stephanie
Eisai Europe Ltd

Thank you so much for all your help and support with us 'newbies' coming to your show for the first time. The show itself was everything we hoped it would be, so well managed and was exactly the right target audience for us. I have never seen so many corporates together in one go!

What was even better was that they were all relaxed and having a great time so happy to chat.
Will send everyone's Mr Grey selfies over tomorrow. He is having a much needed lie in today......

Joanne Egan
Director
Hotel Desk

I just had to write to you and thank you so much for such a well planned BNC Event. I loved every minute of it.
I have to commend you for such a worthwhile event. I made a lot of contacts and discovered new brands. The gifts/goodie bags were a GREAT touch! Fantastic breakfast nibbles too.
I look forward to the Summer event.
Kristina
Universal Music

Congratulations on a fabulous show, l was really impressed! Wonderful contacts, well done! I am sure we will be back next year.
Thanks again.
Sarah Houghton
Sales Manager
Stoke Park

Thank you for a wonderful event.
Very well organised, attended to our every need and thank you for all you help in making sure our stand a very busy one!
We are very happy with the result (222 scans) and look forward to receiving the contacts and start getting busy!
Thank you once again and speak soon!
Kind Regards,
Ana Fonseca
Marketing Manager
Criterion Restaurant

It was lovely to see you both yesterday. Hope you had a good day? Could you send me copies of the photos from HRH Prince Michael's visit to our stand please? Lois and I want to frame them for posterity – we're still excited about the fact we met Royalty!
With kind regards,
Ceri Richardson
Head of Business Development
Brooklands Hotel

Just a quick note to say thanks again for another great show. The feedback from clients was positive as always and all seem to enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Hopefully we have some hot leads to follow up on as soon as we get the scanned information through!
Look forward to (hopefully) seeing you at the dinner in April!
Kind regards
Damian Pegutter
Business Merchandise & Marketing Ltd

Thank you so much for the show yesterday, I felt as though I met a fantastic group of buyers who I very much look forward to welcoming to the Hotel in the coming weeks. I know a huge amount of organisation went in to making yesterday such a success, so many thanks to you and the rest of your team for that. The delicious food throughout the day was gratefully received, and the glass of wine at the end was needed!
Many thanks again
Pamela Debattista
Events Business Development Manager
The Ritz London

Just wanted to say thanks for a great show! We certainly find it very useful and a great range of exhibitors. It's good to catch-up with everyone and all our industry colleagues were very positive about the show and quality of buyers. Have to say quite a contrast to the Confex show the next day!
Lauretthe McClellan
Pineapple Events

Thank you so much for sending the details through and again for a fantastic day yesterday.
We really do appreciate the support you have shown when we have attended and Emily has been fantastic with the organisation of the event.
Emma will be in touch with regards to booking a stand in July, we have definite interest from some of the properties already.
Warm Regards
Lyndsey
Vine Tree Connections

As ever this year's BNC event was a real success with high quality connections and not to forget fantastic food and beverage we all had! Thank you to you all!
Kindest regards,
Anna Hodgins
Marriotthotels.com

Just wanted to send you a quick note to say thank you for a great show yesterday. Each time the show just gets better and better and I made lots of new contacts.
Regards,
Bee
Events Manager
Amec

With special thanks to Jasper Black event photographer

250 industry professionals joined together on Monday 17th November for a networking evening at one of the city’s sleekest hotels.

Suppliers and buyers alike mingled on the 12^th floor of the new and uber stylish Mondrian London for The BNC’s annual Christmas celebration that included speeches, singing and celebrities.

Over wine, mocktails and canapés corporate event managers and representatives from scores of the globe’s most dynamic companies, hotels and destinations spent a happy three and a half hours exchanging news, cards, ideas, tips and best wishes for a thoroughly good festive season.

The aptly named Rumpus Room (a seriously cool glass box events space complete with a rooftop balcony) rocked to the happy sounds of DJ Marc JB’s tunes before being uplifted by an eclectic set from violinist of the moment, Lettice Rowbotham, of Britain’s Got Talent fame.

Party goers could even do some Christmas shopping by purchasing copy of Tom Parker Bowles’ latest book Let’sEatMeat – signed in person by the wonderfully friendly chef himself – and beauticians were on hand to give a bit of pampering with a nail file and polish.

No party is complete without a few games and giveaways and The BNC did it in style with a raucous round of ‘heads and tails’ where the prize was a pair of heart-stoppingly beautiful Christian Louboutin shoes.

The last man standing for the first time ever at a BNC event was actually a man and with ‘hands on head’ Simon of the Institute of Civil Engineers took hold of the coveted heels, announcing to much applause that he was “38, single and an Aquarian......!”

The BNC Christmas party was held as a thank you to all BNC members and to all stand holders for both BNC Event Shows at London’s The Brewery and on the ship, the HMS President 1918. “What a year we’ve had – it’s gone at quite a pace,” began BNC Event Shows’ Co- Director Alec Mumford in his opening speech. “We had a fantastic event at Claridges for 750 people, a Grand Dinner at the Savoy for 240, a Royal Reception at St James’ Palace with Prince Michael of Kent and a 1600 reception at the National History Museum. It’s been a huge year for us, especially with the launch of Country Life Fair.”

BNC founder and BNC Event Shows’ Co-Director Kim Paulden added: “The BNC is growing and growing and going on to bigger but it’s the people who are most important to us. You make the club what it is and we really appreciate everything you put in to your membership and your participation at our events.”

After their heartfelt speech of thanks Kim and Alec decided to inject some song into the room with  their version of McFadden and Whitehead’s Ain't No Stopping Us Now – a symbolic tune to mark the end of a great 12 months. “It reflects who we are and what we do and where we are going,” said Alec.

The chatter in the room was non stop all evening and in the right environment, with the correct blend of networking and entertainment, buyers don’t mind doing business at a social event, as Rachel of Bircham Dyson Bell LLP testifies:

“I have to tell you that it was a brilliant evening and I enjoyed myself so much – as I always do at BNC events. This one, however, was the best event you’ve ever put on. Not only did I have fun but I didn’t mind taking cards from suppliers because their approach was quite subtle and friendly. I’ve made some good contacts tonight and will definitely be making calls this week to move things forward with at least three suppliers.”

Thanks to the generosity of the suppliers in attendance each BNC member went home with a glorious Selfridges hamper stuffed to the brim with chocolate, biscuits, spreads, tea and other goodies.

Thanks to the Mondrian London

By Melissa Paulden