Corporate events are powerful opportunities to bring people together, foster connections, and celebrate shared goals. But to truly make an impact, these NYC events must be inclusive—ensuring every guest feels valued, comfortable, and able to participate fully. Inclusive corporate events go beyond just meeting accessibility requirements; they reflect your organization’s commitment to diversity and belonging. In this blog, we’ll explore five thoughtful strategies to make your NYC corporate events more inclusive, from planning with diverse needs in mind to creating welcoming environments for all. By embracing inclusivity, you’ll not only enhance your event experience but also leave a lasting impression on your guests. Let’s dive in!
1. Prioritize Accessibility
A truly inclusive event starts with an accessible venue. Accessibility ensures that guests with disabilities or mobility differences can participate in any of the day’s activities seamlessly. Choose a venue with:
- Step-free entrances
- Ramps
- Elevators
- Accessible restrooms
Be sure to arrange seating to accommodate wheelchairs – aisles should have a minimum clear width of 36 inches. (See ADA guidelines here.) Signage should be clear and easy to follow, with options for braille. For guests with hearing impairments, consider adding captions to presentations or using an ASL interpreter to ensure accessibility.
2. Offer Diverse Food Options
Make sure that all attendees can dine comfortably with inclusive food options. Start by surveying dietary restrictions ahead of time, if possible. Next, look for local chefs or NYC catering companies who specialize in inclusive menus. An accessible food vendor can offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-free dishes to accommodate all guests, plus cater to cultural preferences, like halal or kosher meals. Be sure to clearly label all food stations with ingredients or potential allergens to avoid confusion or risk. And consider adding stations that allow guests to customize their dish, like a salad bar with a variety of healthy choices. Ensuring that food or drink options are inclusive allows every guest to feel cared for and welcomed.
3. Incorporate Cultural Awareness
A truly inclusive event reflects and celebrates diversity, and there are a host of ways to do this. To begin, avoid scheduling your event on major religious or cultural holidays, like Yom Kippur or Ramadan. (Check with a multi-faith calendar when selecting a date just to be sure.) And consider ways you might incorporate diversity into your event’s entertainment. Hire performers who represent different cultures and backgrounds, for example. Or incorporate different artwork or event décor inspired by different cultures and traditions, ensuring pieces are authentic and not stereotypical. It’s always best to consult with cultural experts or team members who can weigh in on specific traditions or practices.
4. Create Sensory-Friendly Spaces
Corporate events can be overestimating for neurodivergent guests. But quiet, sensory-friendly spaces allow attendees to step away from the hustle and bustle of the day’s activities to rest and recharge. A great sensory space includes:
- Dim lighting
- Minimal noise
- Comfortable seating
Go one step further and add sensory tools, like noise-canceling headphones or earplugs (these are a great option for guests sensitive to sound). Aromatherapy diffusers with light, calming scents like lavender or chamomile promote relaxation, and weighted blankets or lap pads help reduce anxiety. Be sure to share event details ahead of time, including a map, agenda, and key sensory considerations, so guests can prepare accordingly.
5. Communicate Inclusivity Clearly
Make guests feel welcomed right from the start by clearly communicating your brand’s commitment to inclusivity. Start with invitations or event web pages that highlight just how your event will prioritize diverse needs, whether it’s by various food options, an accessible venue, or designated sensory spaces. Be sure to provide detailed information about the venue’s layout, noting where amenities like elevators or ramps are located.
Ideally, your event will include a designated contact person for specific accommodation requests, such as ASL interpreters or dietary needs. Having a single contact for these requests demonstrates your company’s commitment to inclusivity, plus makes guests feel valued and welcomed.
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