Tips on Holding the Best Private Mixer in Toronto (from an Event Space Owner!)

The main reason someone would want to hold a mixer is to network and get to know people better that they otherwise wouldn't. Depending on the type of event this mixer is for, you're going to meet different people (obviously). It is a good way to network and introduce yourself to people you think could help you in your career. Introduce people to each other so they also get something out of going to the mixer.

Where Will You Hold It?

First things first, you need someplace to hold the mixer. Toronto Event Space Rentals has many venues to rent that would be absolutely perfect for small parties, such as a mixer. Why use the venues from this company when you can use any other venue? Well, because this venue is much more affordable than a lot of other, equally high quality places in Toronto. While some of those spaces will set you back $300-$400+/hr, Toronto Event Space Rentals will only set you back about $125/hr while being as good as the more expensive spaces. To learn more about their spaces and which ones would suit you and your event best, visit https://torontoeventspacerentals.ca/ 

Accommodations and Planning For The Mixer

People aren't only going to make connections and socialize, they might also be there for the food and drinks. That may not be the main or biggest reason for most, but that doesn't mean you should skimp on this aspect at all. The food shouldn't be too much, you don't want to provide too much food, even if it's a lunch/dinner mixer. Most of the time, the food provided is just finger food and small amounts of alcohol. That way, the food won't get in the way of socializing and might even be a topic of conversation which will help get the ball rolling for a lot of people. 

When to Start Planning

Start planning at least 2 months before the event is held. This way, you don't have to spend too much time worrying about the mixer and balancing it with your actual life. You can take a little bit more time with it, which will help relieve some of the stress of planning an event.

Decorations and Dress Code

The decoration also should be very minimal. This is a mixer to make connections for work purposes, not a wedding. So you don't want to go too crazy with the decorations. Just some semi-fancy tablecloths, matching chairs and nice lights are all you need for a good looking mixer. And the attire should match. Not the theme, but match in terms of intensity. The people should just wear what they would normally wear to work, maybe a bit fancier but that isn't necessary. As long as no one is showing up in a sweatshirt and pajamas.

Who to Invite

This also depends on how exclusive you want it to be. If it's a mixer for a large corporation with only executives attending, then you should probably send out personal invites to everyone who you think should be invited. You might not know everyone to invite, so for this, ask all your colleagues and bosses who they think should be invited and ask to invite them. This way, people your colleagues might know, can now be introduced to you and others who don't know them. Not all mixers are corporate and exclusive however. This mixer you're planning might be for a local church or to know your local politicians. An event where anyone can attend. That way, you want to put up posters and send email blasts to people you think might be interested. Put posters up in the parts of town that will see and actually use the information on. Tell leaders of local communities to send email blasts or put up notifications so people can see and know when the mixer they might want to attend will be. Last thing, make sure to invite them at least 3 weeks before the event happens.

During The Actual Mixer

Now you're at the mixer, what to do now? Well, as the host of the mixer you want to make sure people are comfortable and that they feel accommodated. You have to make sure that the food is ready and going out on time, that the drinks are also going out on time. While that might seem like a lot, it gets less stressful as time goes on, then you can start socializing properly. Start talking to people and see how you can help each other out. Or go talk to that one person you have been wanting to talk to for a long time. Who knows? It's a mixer, go socialize and have an appropriate amount of fun.

Conclusion

Now you know how to throw a proper mixer. To recap, plan the mixer at least 2 months ahead, have a proper place to hold it, have proper accommodations and decor. Lastly, have fun. It's a mixer, while it is still business, it doesn't have to be as serious as your actual workplace. Now go out there and have a wonderful time!