Organising a Conference

Big or small, conferences take a lot of managing and if you’re new to the role, then planning one can seem a daunting task.

Essentially you need a clear vision of what is required, according to Wayne Bennett, the manager of Somerset’s flagship residential business conference centre, Dillington House.

Set in acres of parkland near Ilminster, the beautiful historic house has been awarded a five star rating by VisitBritain, the official website of the British Tourist Authority.

“Dillington House is an amazing venue for business,” says Wayne, who is delighted with the award.

“A wide range of rooms and settings together with all the latest technology and customer support make any meeting away from the office a complete breeze.

“It is a creative place where colleagues can work together and get things done without the usual distractions.”

Dillington House provides conference facilities for up to 160 delegates and the
type of conference staged here vary enormously from high-profile events involving government ministers to meetings involving a few colleagues who want somewhere quiet where they can think creatively about their business.

“There have been top-secret meetings lasting several days dealing with military procurement as well as more zany conferences featuring clowns and drumming!” says Wayne.

He imparted a few of the basics when it comes to organising your own event.

*Securing the date in the dairy is the first thing.
*Is it residential or non-residential?
*What other rooms are to be required and what equipment is needed?
*Does the event need technical assistance of any sort?

The diverse range of venues in Somerset, from historic country houses such as Dillington to purpose built centres, attracts organisations looking for an easily accessible location.

For a list of venues go to www.visitsomerset.co.uk/conferences
Contact Dillington House on 01460 52427; www.dillington.com
We would like to thank Somerset Life magazine - this article appears in the November issue