Essex

We are all about throwing great parties. That’s what we do for our guests week in week out. These parties are often led by guests, such as weddings, special birthdays and other private events. Beertopia however is a different gig. It’s really one of our events, similar to our historic summer BBQs, race days and more recently all of the fantastic events that our team put on in The Hangar at Milsoms Kesgrave Hall.

These events are created by us with lots of inspiration coming from the team working at Milsom Hotels to determine how the events are executed. And there is so much that goes in to each event of course – they don’t just happen – but we have an extremely experienced team in place which is why it’s so satisfying to see everyone enjoying themselves at Beertopia.

So what’s involved in delivering these great events?

Well, first of all we have to create the concept for any event in the first instance, whether it’s Beertopia or the Armistice Ball at Milsoms Kesgrave Hall, there has to be someone who comes up with the idea in the first place. (Please do shout if you have any event ideas!). Once the idea has been conceived we then begin to plan the detail. This involves creating the core look for the campaign (artwork) to allow us to promote the event. The design is always based on the theme of the event and we always aim to make it eye catching and different for maximum impact. Lots will be happening simultaneously at this point, from planning the food, liaising with suppliers (in this case beer!), planning logistics and importantly selling tickets through our properties and via our website. There are so many Milsom People involved in making these events a success – almost every area of the business is called upon for any location-specific event, from HR and Marketing through to the Catering and Operational teams.

The planning and preparation is one thing, but then comes the delivery of the event and that’s when the teams really kick in. There is a wonderful ‘hands on’ approach with everyone pitching in as the event build-up takes place. From interior prep and layout to catering and planning, there is a build-up of anticipation, excitement – and possibly a little tension – but you can sense everyone is getting mentally prepared as well as taking care of their specific tasks.

What makes Beertopia so good?

Well first of all it’s a beer festival, or maybe it’s a Prosecco festival? Either way, that’s the basis for a great event. Beertopia is relaxed of course and guests are able to experience Le Talbooth and the Marquee in a very different capacity to usual – jeans, trainers and tattoos are less frequently seen through the summer months on the riverside terrace! The beer and Prosecco flows of course, but then the food is delivered – and what great food it is. This year there were so many people overheard saying ‘the portions are great’, ‘love the fish and chips’, ‘the pork was perfect’. It’s incredibly satisfying to hear happy customers and that’s down to the effort that our teams put in – before, during and after the events. This year Beertopia just seemed to work. The bands had people dancing, the weather was perfect – giving a festival vibe to everything and it was also great to see so many Milsom People there. Collaboration is essential when delivering any event and the team working on the night take great pride in serving their fellow colleagues and to have the support of your workmates at these events is extremely motivating.

We managed to capture lots of great images from this year’s beer festival and even some video this year. Have a look through and if anyone would like a copy of the images just let us know.

Well done and here’s to Dedham’s BEERTOPIA 2019…!