The best event spaces in Midtown

So, you’ve decided to host an event in Midtown. You’re brave, ambitious, and possibly a little bit mad. But fear not! This ultimate guide will help you navigate the concrete jungle to find and hire a venue that will make your event the talk of the town. Whether you're planning a swanky corporate event, a chic wedding, or a lively birthday bash, finding the perfect venue in Midtown can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. Fear not, intrepid event planner! This exhaustive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about private hire venues in the heart of the Big Apple.

Why Choose Midtown for Your Private Event?

Midtown is the epicenter of New York City's hustle and bustle. It's where skyscrapers touch the sky, yellow cabs honk their way through gridlock, and street food vendors serve up the best hot dogs you'll ever eat. Home to more Starbucks than you can count, it’s the place where tourists and locals alike come to experience the quintessential NYC vibe. With its iconic landmarks like Times Square, Broadway, and the Empire State Building, Midtown is the perfect backdrop for any event.

Do you know your Midtowners?

Let us break it down for you. In the mid-1950s this area boomed with office space in the form of tall skyscrapers to rival Wall Street and since then the suits have stuck around the area. You've got The Corporate Titans, high-powered executives, armed with a smartphone and a relentless drive to close the next big deal. Or The Tourist Extravaganza, wide-eyed with wonder, trying to figure out which way is uptown. Or look out for The Theater Buffs, heading straight towards Broadway, humming show tunes as they rush to catch the latest hit. But let’s be real – you’re not here for the tourist traps. You’re here to find a private venue where you and your guests can enjoy your event without elbowing through hordes of selfie-stick-wielding tourists. Once you've navigated the crowd and got an idea of the Midtown vibe, you can begin to think about the venue.

Here's our Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Perfect Private Hire Venue in Midtown:

Step 1: Define Your Event Needs

1. Guest List: How many people are you inviting? Is it a charity ball? A brainstorming session? An intimate family affair or a birthday where you want to invite 179 of your closest pals?

2. Type of Event: Corporate gala, wedding, fashion show, or something else entirely?

3. Budget: How much are you willing to spend? Midtown is notorious for its sky-high prices, but there are gems to be found at every price point. Remember things like minimum spend and tipping staff and think about whether you need food and drink. Most places offer catering and customisation which can make an event stand out. HeadBox tip: Many venues will offer package deals that can save you some serious bucks.

4. Date and Time: When is the event happening?

Step 2: Scout the Perfect Location

Midtown spans a pretty big area, so consider which part best suits your needs:

1. Start your venue search online through HeadBox. Just fill in our brief building with all your necessities and any requests and HeadBox will match you with a plethora of venues that fulfil your needs. Think if Airbnb and Tinder had a baby. And we won't match you with those with bad reviews – no one wants to discover their dream venue has a rat problem after signing the contract.

2. Don't be afraid to shut the laptop screen and take a stroll around. Sometime the best hidden gems are found by stumbling across them.

3. Social media can also be a good way to get a personal insight into a venue. Try TikTok-ing 'best midtown venue' and watch an influencer sip on a bars signature cocktail or a team enjoying working a unique meeting space.

Step 3: Narrow it down

Now it’s time to decide. Can you see yourself and your guests in any of these places? Don't be afraid to visit in person. Pictures can be deceiving, so it’s worth taking the time to visit your top choices in person. Seeing is believing! Match with them on HeadBox, slide into those DMs or, if you’re old-fashioned, give them a call. When contacting the bars, be sure to ask:

1. Availability: Is the date you want open?

2. Capacity: Can they accommodate your group size?

3. Private Hire Details: What’s included in the private hire? Are there any restrictions or additional fees?

4. Accessibility: Is the venue easy to get to? Midtown traffic can be a nightmare, so proximity to subways is a plus.

5. Other Options: Do they offer food and drink, or can you bring in your own? Do they have the right AV for your presentation? Can you customise the cocktail to match your hair color?

Step 4: Once you're satisfied, Lock It Down!

Once you’ve found the perfect venue, it’s time to seal the deal. Make sure to get everything in writing, from the rental cost to the cancellation policy: Contracts are your friend! Confirm all details: Double-check the date, time, and what’s included. Plan the logistics: Think about transportation, decorations, and any other details to make your event a success.

Step 5: A final few tips

1. Plan Ahead: Midtown venues get booked fast. Start your search at least a few months in advance leaving more time for the larger events.

2. Permits and Insurance: Some venues require event insurance or special permits. Check with the venue manager.

3. Weather Considerations: If you’re planning an outdoor event, always have a Plan B.

Conclusion

Finding and privately hiring a venue in Midtown might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a breeze. Remember to use your keywords—Midtown hire, rent, private hire, venue—when searching online. Embrace the stereotypes, negotiate like a true New Yorker, and most importantly, enjoy the process. After all, you’re planning an event in one of the most vibrant places on earth!

So go forth, planner extraordinaire, and may your Midtown event be nothing short of spectacular!