How to Plan a Successful Company Event

8 September 2025

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Planning a successful company event is both an art and a science — especially in the fast-paced, innovative environment of the Netherlands. Whether you’re an HR manager at a tech firm or a team leader looking to boost morale, the right approach can transform a simple gathering into an unforgettable experience that drives engagement, strengthens connections, and delivers measurable results. At UP Events, we’ve spent over 15 years perfecting the craft of event organization, and we’re excited to share our expertise to help you plan your next standout company event.

Why Company Events Matter More Than Ever

Recent studies show that well-executed company events lead to higher employee engagement, improved collaboration, and reduced turnover. In fact, 91% of event planners report a positive ROI from investing in event technology, and companies consistently see boosts in productivity and morale following team-building activities. As the Dutch event industry continues to grow — valued at €472.9 million in 2025 — businesses are increasingly recognizing the strategic value of memorable, well-planned events.

Step 1: Set Clear Objectives and Define Success

The foundation of any successful company event is a clear understanding of your goals. As HR manager Marieke van der Laan advises, “Start with the end in mind — define what success looks like for your team and the company.” Are you aiming to foster teamwork, celebrate a milestone, launch a product, or simply have fun? Setting measurable objectives ensures every decision — from venue to activities — aligns with your desired outcomes.

Key Questions to Ask:

  • What are the primary goals of the event?
  • Who is your target audience?
  • What outcomes would make the event a success?

Step 2: Choose the Right Format and Activities

The landscape of corporate events is evolving rapidly. Hybrid and virtual formats are now standard, with 74.5% of planners using hybrid events to increase accessibility and reach. At UP Events, we offer a diverse range of activities, from high-energy team challenges like Expedition Robinson and VR Team Challenges to creative workshops and BBQ parties with live entertainment.

Explore our full range of team-building activities and workshops to find the perfect fit for your team.

Popular Event Types:

  • Team-building experiences for groups of 15 to 5,000 people
  • Corporate parties and anniversaries
  • Product launches in unique formats
  • Outdoor city games and cocktail workshops

Step 3: Select a Memorable Venue

A unique venue can elevate your event from ordinary to extraordinary. Our flagship location in Amsterdam West offers 45,000 m² of private indoor and outdoor space, while our Weesp venue provides flexibility for groups of all sizes. Both locations are fully equipped for seamless event management, including catering, decorations, music, and entertainment.

Discover more about our event venues in Amsterdam and Weesp.

Venue Considerations:

  • Accessibility for all participants
  • Indoor and outdoor options for flexibility
  • On-site amenities and technical support
  • Compliance with Dutch regulations (permits, safety, GDPR)

Step 4: Personalize the Experience

Personalization is a top trend in event planning, with experts like HR consultant Sophie de Vries recommending, “Tailor activities to your team’s interests and company culture for maximum impact.” At UP Events, we specialize in fully customized events — whether you want a themed corporate party, a family-friendly gathering, or a high-impact product launch.

From bespoke catering menus to custom decorations and entertainment, every detail can be tailored to your vision. Explore our corporate event solutions for inspiration.

Step 5: Embrace Technology and Sustainability

Modern events leverage technology for efficiency, engagement, and measurement. Over 50% of planners use AI tools for logistics and analytics, while 91% see positive ROI from mobile event apps. Sustainability is also a growing priority: 72% of planners now use digital badges and paperless solutions.

At UP Events, we’re committed to sustainable practices and innovative tech, ensuring your event is both impactful and environmentally responsible.

Step 6: Plan for Engagement and Connection

What makes an event truly memorable? According to event strategist Jeroen Bakker, “Interactive activities, meaningful networking, and a strong narrative make events memorable.” We design our experiences to foster genuine connections — whether through team challenges, creative workshops, or live entertainment.

Pro Tip: Incorporate storytelling and a cohesive theme to reinforce your company’s values and mission.

Step 7: Manage Logistics, Compliance, and Feedback

A seamless event requires meticulous planning and attention to detail. In the Netherlands, large events may require municipal permits, risk assessments, and compliance with health, safety, and data protection regulations (GDPR). Our experienced team handles all logistics, ensuring your event runs smoothly and meets all legal requirements.

After the event, gather feedback through surveys to measure success and identify areas for improvement. 71% of planners use post-event surveys to enhance future events.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced planners face challenges. Here’s what to watch out for:

  • Budget overruns: 40% of planners cite this as a top challenge. We provide transparent quotes and manage costs proactively.
  • Vendor management: Rising costs and unreliable partners can derail your event. Our in-house team handles everything, ensuring quality and consistency.
  • Attendance issues: Engaging content and effective promotion are key to boosting participation.

The ROI of Team-Building Events

Investing in team-building pays off. Companies report higher engagement, better communication, and improved retention after successful events. According to recent studies, well-executed events lead to measurable improvements in performance metrics and employee satisfaction.

Why Choose UP Events?

With over 15 years of experience, a 4.8 Google review score from 2,600+ customers, and the capacity to host up to 5,000 participants, we’re proud to be Amsterdam’s leading full-service event organizer. Our focus on quality, creativity, and connection ensures every event is not just successful — but truly unforgettable.

Ready to start planning? Contact us for a personalized quote and let’s create something extraordinary together.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important steps in planning a successful company event?

Start by defining clear objectives, choose the right format and activities, select a memorable venue, personalize the experience, leverage technology, and ensure compliance with all regulations.

How can I ensure my event is inclusive and accessible?

Choose venues with full accessibility, offer a range of activities to suit diverse interests, and ensure all communications are clear and welcoming.

What are the benefits of team-building events?

Team-building events improve engagement, collaboration, and retention, leading to higher productivity and morale across your organization.

What regulations do I need to consider for events in the Netherlands?

Large events may require municipal permits, risk assessments, and compliance with health, safety, and GDPR data protection regulations. Sustainability is also encouraged by the Dutch government.

How do I measure the success of my company event?

Use post-event surveys, participation rates, and feedback to assess engagement and identify areas for improvement. Many planners also track ROI through productivity and retention metrics.

Useful Resources

By following these steps and leveraging our expertise, you’ll discover not just how to plan a successful company event, but how to create an experience your team will talk about for years to come. Let’s make your next event a resounding success!