About Memphis
Memphis, the "Home of the Blues" and the birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll, is a vibrant city located in the southwestern corner of Tennessee on the mighty Mississippi River. Famous sites such as Beale Street, Hard Rock Cafe, and Sun Studio have contributed to making Memphis a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The city also has a strong heritage in blues, rock 'n' roll, jazz, and gospel music which can be found at many local venues or experienced at some of Memphis's annual festivals such as the Beale Street Music Festival and International Blues Challenge.
In addition to modern hotels and conference centers that feature state-of-the-art amenities, more unique venues such as museums, galleries, historic theaters, and concert halls exist in Memphis which sets it apart from other cities when it comes to organizing corporate events with a wow factor.
Corporate Event Options in Memphis
- Catering Services
From box lunches to full buffet services, caterers offer meal options for any business gathering, no matter the size or type of food needed. Corporate caterers will be able to accommodate large groups while making sure each dish caters to dietary restrictions and preferences as well as providing presentation pieces if required.
- Sound Equipment Rentals
A sound system rental is great for providing quality audio for presentations or entertaining guests with live music. There are professional equipment rentals in Memphis that can provide high-quality sound systems that are user-friendly and customized to fit the space available. The addition of this service will help enhance the overall audio experience of the event.
- Video Production Services
Using a video production company helps create impactful content that can be used both at an event or on digital platforms afterward. From documentary-style videos about the purpose of a corporate gathering to promotional materials used before and after an event, video production adds value by capturing memories of events that last long after they happen.
Corporate Event Vendors in Memphis
- CTI — Memphis
CTI — Memphis is an industry leader in the audiovisual and broadcast space, offering a comprehensive suite of services for businesses large and small. Their experienced team of technicians specializes in boardroom and conference room solutions, including custom control systems, AV furniture installation, and video conferencing options. In addition to these services, they provide professional-grade equipment rentals for events of any size, featuring the latest selection in AV carts, lighting equipment, sound systems, audio/visual cameras, projectors, trusses, and more.
- T and T Catering
T and T Catering LLC provides top-notch corporate and private event catering services. Their experienced chefs and dedicated staff pay special attention to every detail, creating inspired dishes with impeccable presentations for an unforgettable moment. The company offers a wide variety of menu options ranging from BBQ and vegetarian feasts to sweeping gourmet dinners. They can provide additional flexible services such as decoration or music & entertainment upon request.
- Message in a Bottle Productions
Message in a Bottle Productions is a professional video production company based in Memphis, TN. The company has been providing high-quality video services for over 10 years, covering corporate projects, weddings, live events, and creative endeavors. Their team of experienced professionals guides each project from inception to completion using cutting-edge technology and advanced techniques. From local and national broadcast commercials to TED Talk-style live presentations, they are an industry leader in delivering stunning visuals that capture the audience's attention.
Pros and Cons of Corporate Events in Memphis
Memphis' strategic location, captivating history, pleasant climate, and popularity as a tourist destination make it an ideal city for hosting corporate events. However, it is essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before organizing any gathering in Memphis.
Advantages
- Memphis is located in close proximity to major cities like Nashville and St. Louis which allows for easy access for visitors from out-of-town.
- The city has a warm climate throughout most of the year with average temperatures in the mid-60s even during winter months making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities.
- The city offers numerous attractions and venues that make it suitable for hosting any type of event such as art galleries, museums, theatres, sports arenas, and concert halls that can be used as backdrops for any corporate event.
Disadvantages
- Memphis has high crime rates which may deter potential guests from attending gatherings here.
- The city has a relatively poor public transportation system which makes it difficult for visitors from out-of-town to get around without renting a car or using ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft.
- Due to its popularity among tourists there are limited hotel accommodations available during peak season which may make it difficult for companies looking to book large groups at a discounted rate.
Tips on How to Organize Corporate Events in Memphis
Corporate events are a great way to bring colleagues together and promote team-building. Whether it's for important project completion or a company milestone, hosting an event in Memphis can be fun and effective if the right approach is taken. Here are some tips on how to make it successful.
- Secure the Venue: It's important to ensure that the venue you choose can accommodate all attendees. You might want to consider renting a space, like a local conference center, that provides comprehensive services such as catering, audio/visual equipment, and decorating options. This will help you create the perfect atmosphere for your event.
- Have an Appropriate Theme: A good theme can set the tone of your gathering and make sure that guests have a great time. For instance, if you're celebrating the founding of a new business branch in Memphis, consider hiring a live blues band as entertainment or decorating with images of iconic Memphis locations like Beale Street or Graceland.
- Catering Options: Food and drinks should be part of any occasion to ensure that your guests are happy and well-fed throughout the evening. Consider discussing different catering options with venues beforehand so you don't get stuck scrambling at the last minute trying to find something suitable for everyone's tastes.
Famous Locations in Memphis
- Blues Hall of Fame Museum
The Blues Hall of Fame Museum is a must-see for fans of the genre. Featuring exhibits dedicated to inductees of the Blues Hall of Fame, the space is intimate, well-done, and thoughtfully curated. In addition to a rotating art gallery on the lobby level, visitors will discover a small but impactful collection of bluesy exhibits downstairs. The collection spans the genre's history and includes highlights like Muddy Waters' outlandish, retro tour jacket from 1982, as well as sparkling performance gowns worn by blues icons Mavis Staples, Koko Taylor, and Denise LaSalle. Perhaps most impressive is BB King’s last Lucille, the guitar he carried in his funeral procession in 2015.
- Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum is an unassuming clapboard house that played a crucial role in the abolitionist movement. This building served as a way station for runaway slaves seeking freedom on the Underground Railroad. The house is equipped with trapdoors, cellar entryways, and cubbyholes, all meant to hide fugitive slaves from slave catchers. One of the highlights includes a stop in the dark cellar, which served as a final hiding place before slaves made their way to the Mississippi River. This visit offers a somber reminder of the harsh realities that enslaved individuals faced and the bravery of those who helped them in their quest for freedom.
- Elmwood Cemetery
Elmwood Cemetery in Memphis, established in 1852, offers a glimpse into the city's history through its Victorian monuments and mass graves. As you enter the oldest active cemetery in the Southern city, you'll feel transported to a tranquil memorial retreat. With over 80 acres of grounds, the cemetery features some 1,500 trees, including magnolias, dogwoods, oaks, and maples, hovering over the marble monuments, angelic statues, massive mausoleums, and mass graves. The cemetery tells the stories of blues musicians, governors, and people who donated their bodies to science, among others. Elmwood Cemetery remains a peaceful sanctuary for both the living and the dead.