What Is a Dry Hire Venue and What Are the Pros and Cons?
A ‘dry hire’ venue is one that provides the use of the space - nothing more. They’re an alternative to hotels that provide event packages or purpose-built event spaces that have their own suppliers.
They are, in essence, blank spaces (they’re also sometimes referred to as ‘blank canvas venues’) on which you design and create a DIY event.
What are some examples of dry hire venues?
Dry hire venues come in all shapes and sizes. They can be hotels or conference centres that already host regular events but allow a dry hire option. Or they can include spaces that aren’t specifically purpose-built for events (think: a field… a barn… a brewery… the street outside Central Perk on which Phoebe and Mike got married in Friends).
Recently, Team Activity Group held an event in a field alongside the River Thames. We simply erected marquees and took over the field for a team raft-building activity - rafts which we then tested out on the river. This worked perfectly for us because our event was simple and we didn’t need the extras that come with many venue hires. It was the ideal location for raft-building!
Although hiring a blank canvas might seem a little scary for some, dry hire venues come with a host of benefits.
The pros of dry hire venues
Pro #1: They allow you to put your mark on the event
Dry hires allow for a completely DIY event and for you to add your own, unique stamp.
You have freedom of choice. This means, importantly, that you can choose the suppliers and be in charge of the decor, theme, food, drink etc.
You can also be as creative as you like. With a dry hire venue, you can create amazing immersive experiences designed specifically for your theme without having to worry about rules or restrictions imposed by the venue (within reason!).
Pro #2: They can save you money
Sometimes it doesn’t make sense - financially or otherwise - to hire a venue with all the trimmings.
When you dry hire a venue, you can choose the suppliers. This means you can shop around for the best quotes.
When it comes to decor, you can even make your own items which not only saves money but adds more of a personal touch to the event.
Pro #3: There’s more flexibility with food and drink
You might be planning a corporate dinner and you know that several members of your team don’t eat certain foods. Having to stick to a catering package with limited options will be problematic - and will prevent team members from fully enjoying the day.
If you’re hosting a religious event especially, dry hires are the better option as you can choose a specific catering supplier.
Ok so we’ve discussed the pros, but what about the downsides?
The con of dry hire venues
Potential for stress
This is probably the biggest and only issue with a dry hire. Wet hire venues will organise and provide anything from decoration and production to catering and staff - plus any extras you might want.
With a dry hire, you’re going it alone. There’s a reason why event planning isn’t a job for the faint hearted!
If you’re planning an event yourself, sourcing the suppliers, working out the various costs, and putting everything together can be stressful.
Additionally, if you’re not experienced in event planning, choosing the right dry hire venue could also be a bit of a gamble.
This is where Team Activity Group, a professional events company, comes in! We’ve specialised in the events sector since 1994 and have produced and managed events all over the UK.
We have partnerships with numerous venues across the Thames Valley region. If there’s one you like the look of for your event, simply call us for a chat to discuss your event needs: 07767 250192 / 01189 402588 or email us on events@tag-events.com.