FAQs - General Event Management Questions

I’ve been asked to source some team building activities for my company but am not sure what to look for. Any suggestions?

Have a look at the activities listed on this website.  You’ll find some common objectives that our events are most often required to achieve.  If you need further advice, just phone or email us with your requirements and we will make suitable recommendations.

How do I write a successful event brief to hand over to an event planner?

A great brief is simple: define your 'Why' (objective), your 'Who' (delegate numbers), your 'When' (dates/duration), your 'Where' (location/venue type), and your 'How Much' (budget). Don't try to solve the how, just tell us your goal.

What information do your event planners need about our budget and timeline?

Be honest and upfront about both. Your timeline dictates what’s logistically possible. Your budget tells us the scope we can deliver within. Without a realistic range, we can’t provide a helpful, tailored proposal; we can only guess.

What's the real difference between team bonding and leadership development events?

Team bonding is about breaking the ice, having fun, and improving morale so it's often broad and social. Leadership development is targeted; it uses challenging scenarios (like a problem-solving game or an expedition) to specifically test, assess, and grow strategic thinking and delegation skills.

When should I hire an external event management company instead of planning in-house?

You should hire outside help when planning an event consumes more than 20% of your day job, you need specialist insurance or unique equipment, or when you need negotiation power with venues and suppliers. Outsourcing is about expertise, network, and saving yourself time and stress.

There are so many team building companies out there, why should I choose TAG events?

We pride ourselves on providing unique events which match the exact criteria each of our clients require, so no two events we host are the same. We are constantly striving to surpass your expectations and deliver your event to the highest possible standard. Our feedback and testimonials over many years has taught us that clients appreciate the way we work. For example you will have one point of contact at TAG events and we will do everything in our power to ensure that this person remains the same from the moment you make initial contact with us, through the build up, during the event and after the big day. WE also make it top priority to ensure everyone in our office is up to date with all our clients and the events that are in our diary so even if your number one contact isn’t available, we promise there will be somebody who can answer your questions.

Do you offer bespoke event planning services for highly specific client needs?

Absolutely. Our entire process is built around bespoke event design. We don't just pick from a menu; we consult on your objectives and custom-create the flow, activities, and logistics to match your company culture and measurable outcomes.

Can Team Activity Group handle all supplier and vendor management, including contracts?

Yes, taking the burden of supplier management is a core service. Usually, clients wish to contract with the venue directly themselves as this makes other arrangements like accommodation and catering easier to manage. Regarding the activities and entertainment we provide, we manage all negotiations, contract finalisation, risk assessment, and on-site liaison, leaving you with a single point of contact and ensuring a seamless, compliant delivery.

How do your event organisers deal with last-minute delegate number changes?

We build contingency into every plan. Our supplier network allows for flexible catering and setup adjustments. For major changes, the contract will detail the cutoff date for essential planning, but our experience allows us to minimise disruption and cost.

How long in advance should a large corporate event be booked and planned?

To secure the best venues, your ideal dates and achieve the ultimate event, it’s best to give as much advance warning as possible. We work best when our clients plan ahead with us but, we also understand that clients work to tight timeframes these days and we pride ourselves on being able to work to short deadlines, providing venues and equipment are available.

What kind of testimonials or case studies should I look for when choosing an event planner?

Look for case studies that detail the challenge the client faced, the solution the planner provided (the creative aspect), and the measurable outcome (e.g., 'Team satisfaction scores increased by 30%'). Specificity proves expertise. Check out our testimonials page here and some of our case studies here.

What happens if it rains?

In our experience rain rarely hinders the success of one of our events!  We will ensure your guests are kept as warm and dry as possible whilst our staff will keep everyone’s spirits high to make sure the fun doesn’t stop.  Depending on your chosen venue and activities there may be the possibility of moving the activities indoors, however this may carry a cost implication.

What are the typical costs for a full-day corporate team building event in the UK?

Costs vary widely based on delegate numbers, activity complexity, and catering. We run activities from just under £1,000 to full scale events in excess of £10,000. Bespoke quotes are essential but remember, quality entertainment and seamless logistics are where your investment truly pays off.

Because of the unique way we design our events to ensure we cater for your exact requirements, no two events are ever the same and for that reason you will not find any prices on our website.  The cost of each event is worked out at the initial planning stage, so you know the cost we quote you is a true reflection of your needs.

Are you able to offer a discount to charities?

We promise to provide all our clients with the most competitive quote possible. We understand budgets are right for everyone so for this reason discounts aren’t necessary because we are already offering you our lowest possible rates.

Should I provide refreshments?

For all activities and entertainment, we suggest water is provided for your guests.  More than often it is easier to arrange for the venue to provide all refreshments for you and we are happy to liaise with the venue on your behalf.  Clients often arrange for tea and coffee to be available on arrival and for prolonged periods of activity, breaks can be scheduled and a wider range of refreshments and snacks served.

How many TAG staff will be at our event?

There is no hard and fast rule as to how many TAG staff will be at your event. As soon as we know which activities you have chosen and the logistics we will be able to let you know staffing numbers. One thing you can be sure of is that there will always be enough staff to ensure your event runs smoothly and that all activities will be sufficiently staffed to ensure your guests safety throughout.  We guarantee our staff will look smart and presentable throughout your event. Their dress will reflect the activities/entertainment you have chosen whilst remaining easily identifiable as professional event managers.

Once I have chosen the date, the venue and the activities, what do I need to do next?

Nothing! sit back, relax and leet us get on with what we do best. We will iron out all the logistics, liaise with your venue and most importantly keep you regularly updated. We appreciate that by choosing TAG events you are entrusting us to create the event you want from the detailed brief we took at the beginning of the process. If we need to make any decisions on your behalf, we promise to be in touch first so you can feel confident we have your events best interests at heard.

FAQs - Activity Related Questions

‍Can you suggest unique outdoor team challenges that work for both large and small groups?

‍Yes, we’ll help you find activities that are inherently scalable, like multi-challenge experiences where teams rotate through stations, or larger water-based sports like dragon boat racing. These are flexible, engaging, and encourage competition whether you have 10 people or 500.

‍Is there a minimum / maximum group size?

‍No, our activities can be altered to cater for as few or as many as you wish, although some activities are better suited to smaller or larger groups (and these are noted for each relevant activity), we are happy to talk all the options through with you.

‍Can you supply equipment for us to use ourselves?

‍Yes.  However to ensure we can maintain the condition and quality of our equipment, we always supply a member of our staff on site to set up, pack down and oversee the running of the activity with the overall result that your guests have a better quality experience.

‍What kind of evening entertainment works best after a demanding business conference?

‍After a long day of focus, delegates need energy and relaxation. Go for interactive, low-stakes fun: a roaming close-up magician, a fun casino night, or live entertainment that encourages interaction rather than just background noise. Check out some of our entertainment options here.

‍What are some fun, low-impact indoor activities for smaller teams during bad weather?

‍For smaller groups indoors, focus on engaging, cognitive challenges. Examples include ‘Jail Break’ or ‘Masterpiece’ challenges. We also offer competitive cooking workshops that require communication and precision as well as more relaxing art and candle making workshops for the creatively inspired. Check out some of our indoor options here.

I see both land and water-based activities are available – is it possible to combine elements of both into one event?

Certainly. One of the great advantages of choosing TAG is the experience we have in both areas. So you can mix and match activities with confidence knowing your guests will have the best possible time. See here for our water-based activities and here for some outdoor land-based fun.

‍What are the most popular outdoor activities you recommend for a large staff summer fun day?

‍Classic sports day activities with a modern twist work wonders. Think inflatable obstacle courses, old-school style sports days, and large-scale team quizzes. We can also bring in some side-attractions such as lawn games to keep everyone occupied while they socialise. Have a look at our Outdoor Activity options.

‍Are there team building activities specifically designed to break down silos between departments?

‍Yes, the best activities for this are those that force unexpected cross-departmental collaboration under pressure, like ‘Jail Break’ or complex communication exercises where the success of one team depends entirely on accurate information passed by another.

‍What makes a company Christmas party truly memorable and not just another dinner?

A memorable party has an element of surprise and minimal formalities. It needs a 'wow factor' entrance, unexpected entertainment (like flash mobs or interactive performers), and generous, creative food/drink options that encourage mingling and celebrating. Check out some of our Festive Activities options.

‍Do you offer other activities other than the ones detailed on the website?

‍Yes. We have run many exciting events with a range of activity options that simply have to be experienced to be believed, we have highlighted the activities that have proved to be popular but we do offer even more choices. So if you have something in mind and can’t see it on the website, do get in contact with us and we are more than happy to discuss your ideas.

‍What should we wear for an event?

‍For events involving land activities we suggest casual sports clothing and trainers, or other suitable clothes and footwear that will allow the wearer to move freely, (footwear should be sturdy and flat).  Although it is unlikely you will get very muddy, we advise you wear something you don’t mind getting dirty.  In the colder months we recommend additional clothing such as waterproofs, hats, scarves and gloves.  For water activities we recommend that participants bring a complete change of clothes and a towel.  Your feet will get wet, so take this into consideration as you may not wish to wear your most expensive shoes.  We also request you avoid wearing jeans, wellingtons, heavy footwear or ostentatious jewellery.

‍Are there any weight, height, age restrictions?

‍We endeavour to make our activities as fully inclusive as possible.  However, some of the activities we provide require participants to be reasonably fit and not vastly overweight to their height.  If you have any concerns about suitability please talk to one of our team and we will be happy to talk through your requirements.

‍Can we consume alcohol during an event?

‍For water activities we have a strict no alcohol policy and request that participants do not consume alcohol before or during the activity but instead wait until they have finished.  Your safety is our highest priority, therefore, any person(s) who are thought to have consumed alcohol or is not in a ‘fit state’ to participate will not be allowed to do so.  For some land activities and other entertainment it may be appropriate for guests to enjoy alcohol during the event, please discuss with our team your requirements.  The unlawful use of any banned substance is strictly prohibited at any time.

‍Do you outsource activities and equipment thus increasing the cost to me the client?

‍No, we don’t outsource to other companies to host your event. We aren’t just event managers we actually create and host all our events ourselves. If you do require something unusual which we don’t own in house (it’s impossible to own everything!) we will only source from a trusted supplier who we have worked with closely in the past, and because we have spent years building this relationship there is no added cost to you, ensuring you still get everything at face value.

‍Can you provide trophies or prizes for the winning team?

‍All our proposals include medals for the winning team. If you would like further medals, certificates, trophies or unique prizes with a difference we are happy to suggests ideas and source these for you.

‍We want activities to engage even the reluctant employees on our team. Can you help?

Definitely, we thrive on the challenge of getting everyone involved however hesitant they may be initially. We don’t force anyone to do anything they don’t want to, but experience has taught us that the enthusiasm of our staff is infectious and guest can’t help but want to get involved. We also aim to help you choose a range of activities that stimulate not only the active but the cerebral too, we want there to be something for everyone!

‍Can you suggest ideas to entertain our staff at the end of a long day?

‍Yes, we have a range of entertainment ideas that are a perfect way for your staff to relax and unwind. Whether you want a hands-on activity or something which means you can sit back and be entertained, we promise to match the right activity to your needs.

‍Do the activities/entertainment I choose have to be competitive?

‍Not at all, we appreciate the importance of hosting an event without scaring your guests off with winners or losers. We can create an atmosphere which focuses on encouraging participants to get involved and become energised. Your guests will reap the benefit from working together in a relaxed environment where the contribution of everyone is valued as opposed to forcing people with a fear of failure into a high pressured competitive environment.

FAQs - Venue Related Questions

Where can you host events?

All of our equipment is fully mobile so we can work anywhere in the UK. All venues are subject to a health & safety review to ensure they are suitable for your event.

Which venues are best suited for a corporate away day with 150 attendees?

For 150 people, you need a site with multiple breakout rooms and grounds for activities. Look for manor houses, dedicated conference centres, or large country hotels. Or we can advise on the best venue for your event from our extensive list of tried and tested locations. See here for venues we often work with.

I’m not sure about a suitable venue for the activity I want. Can you help?

Yes. We have wide experience of which venues are best suited to particular activities and have built good relationships with all of them. We can undertake all the booking arrangements too, just confirm your requirements and leave the rest to us. We can also arrange catering and other event accompaniments to ensure your event runs as smoothly as possible. Visit our venue section of the website for more ideas.

What are the benefits for a hotel venue to partner with a corporate event management company?

The main benefit is a dedicated, reliable source of high-value corporate bookings you wouldn't otherwise capture. We act as an extension of your sales team, filling capacity with vetted clients, and we know how to utilise your facilities for specific activities better than most.

We are a venue. How does your partnership program help drive corporate business to us?

We include you in our exclusive network, recommending your site directly to our clients whose needs match your capacity and facilities. We also feature you on our website, effectively giving you free, targeted marketing exposure.

Can you recommend venues near the River Thames that are great for dragon boat racing events?

We maintain a dynamic network of venues with the necessary water access and facilities required for high-impact activities like dragon boat racing and the River Thames is at the heart of our business as we operate many events in this region. Please use the contact form to specify your target region and delegate size for an immediate, tailored recommendation.

FAQs - Health & Safety Related Questions

What is your process for vetting venues and ensuring they meet our safety requirements?

Our venue vetting is rigorous. It includes checking fire safety logs, insurance certification, public liability coverage, and a mandatory site visit to confirm capacity and access routes. We only work with partners whose standards meet or exceed our own.

How can I be sure our delegates will be safe at a TAG event?

Client safety is our top priority.  We own and maintain all our own equipment so we can be sure of its reliability and fitness for purpose.

Our instructors are all certified by the relevant governing bodies – the British Dragon Boat Racing Association, the Royal Yachting Association and the Grand National Archery Society – and give safety briefings before each activity.  We always have qualified first aiders on standby and also carry full public/third party liability insurance cover.

Do we need our own insurance?

No, we are covered by £10 million public liability insurance, so there is no need to worry about additional insurance for your event.  We are happy to provide you with a copy of this documentation should you wish to see it.  We do however recommend you take out your own event-insurance in case you need to cancel your event for any unforeseen reason.‍

What if a member of our group has a pre-existing medical condition?

‍We advise that any participant who is in doubt of their physical ability to take part in some or all of the activities should speak to us in advance of the event and / or seek medical advice from their general practitioner.