Business meetings don't always have to take place in a formal conference room. In a world increasingly geared towards wellness and creativity, outdoor corporate brunches in natural settings offer a refreshing alternative to foster dialogue, innovation and collaboration. Hosting a brunch in a place like Casa Ylang Ylang, with its lush gardens and relaxing surroundings, can transform a simple business meeting into an inspiring experience. Below, we explore how combining a brunch with outdoor business meetings can be the key to boosting productivity and creative thinking.
1. The Natural Environment: Source of Creativity and Innovation
Simply changing the setting of a corporate meeting from a closed office to an outdoor environment has a significant impact on creativity and productivity. Numerous studies have shown that natural environments help reduce stress, improve mood and stimulate innovative thinking.
• Benefits of the Outdoors: Breathing fresh air, being surrounded by nature, and enjoying natural light promotes mental well-being, allowing participants to be more relaxed and open to new ideas. An outdoor brunch in the gardens of Casa Ylang Ylang creates a relaxed and welcoming environment that encourages fluid dialogue and the exchange of ideas.
• Visual Stimulation: Contact with nature stimulates creativity. The beauty of the landscape, the natural colors, and the diversity of shapes and textures of the environment activate areas of the brain associated with innovation. This turns a corporate brunch into a space where ideas flow naturally and without pressure.
2. The Structure of the Brunch: The Perfect Balance between Relaxation and Productivity
A corporate brunch combines the best of both worlds: the informality of a shared meal and the structure necessary for an effective meeting. The brunch schedule, usually mid-morning or midday, is perfect for keeping attendees energized and focused.
• Networking Start: A brunch can begin with an informal networking phase, where attendees get to know each other and break the ice in a relaxed atmosphere. This allows for a more relaxed and collaborative dynamic to be established before getting into the formal topics of the meeting.
• Discussion Moments: After the initial networking, it is ideal to structure specific moments to discuss business topics. Round tables outdoors or under a pergola offer a collaborative and less formal environment, facilitating open dialogue and participation by all attendees.
• Breaks and Refreshment: Breaks to enjoy brunch allow participants to recharge their batteries without interrupting the flow of ideas. Sharing a meal in the middle of nature helps to consolidate working relationships and generate an atmosphere of trust.
3. An Inspiring Menu to Stimulate Creativity
The menu of a corporate brunch should be designed not only to delight guests, but also to stimulate the body and mind. Choosing healthy and creative options can be a great ally to keep attendees' energy and focus.
• Healthy and Gourmet Options: Include a variety of fresh options, such as seasonal fruits, gourmet salads, smoothies, and light protein dishes like eggs, avocado, or fish. Nutrient-rich foods help maintain concentration throughout the meeting.
• Interactive Food Stations: Stations where guests can customize their meal, such as a natural juice bar or a bagel and toast station with different ingredients, add a dynamic touch to the event and encourage interaction between attendees.
• Specialty Coffee and Tea: Offer a variety of high-quality coffees and teas, including organic or fair trade options. Natural infusions can also be part of the menu, adding an element that reinforces the connection with the natural environment of the garden.
4. Modular Spaces for Different Work Dynamics
The success of an outdoor corporate brunch lies in the flexibility of the space. A venue like Casa Ylang Ylang offers the ability to set up different areas depending on the needs of the meeting.
• Round Tables for Group Discussion: Setting up round tables in the garden, under a pergola or tent, allows attendees to gather in small groups to discuss projects or brainstorm ideas. These tables should be equipped with supporting materials such as whiteboards or tablets to facilitate note-taking.
• Teamwork Areas: For collaborative projects or teamwork sessions, consider setting up areas for group discussions.Outdoor work stations with sofas or comfortable chairs. This allows for greater creative freedom and closer interaction between teams.
• Relaxation Areas: It is important to have rest areas, where attendees can take a short break between discussions or simply enjoy the surroundings. Hammocks or armchairs in quiet corners of the garden are perfect for recharging energy without losing connection with the natural environment.
5. Technology at the Service of the Corporate Brunch
Although the atmosphere is relaxed, a corporate brunch should not lack the necessary technological tools to facilitate work. It is possible to integrate technology without losing the charm of being outdoors.
• Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Make sure that the garden has access to reliable Wi-Fi so that participants can share documents, make presentations or connect with colleagues who participate remotely.
• Screens and Projectors: If presentations are required, you can install screens or projectors in areas of the garden, preferably under a tent or pergola, to ensure that sunlight does not interfere with visibility.
• Portable Chargers and Charging Stations: Place discreet charging stations at different points in the garden so that attendees can charge their devices without interrupting the dynamics of the meeting.
6. Sustainability: An Important Element in Outdoor Brunches
Outdoor corporate events are an excellent opportunity to reflect the company's commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment.
• Use of Eco-Friendly Materials: Make sure that the utensils and tableware used at the brunch are reusable or biodegradable. Opting for ecological and local products reinforces the sustainability message.
• Organic and Local Food: Including organic and local ingredients in the menu not only ensures the freshness of the food, but also supports local producers and reduces the carbon footprint of the event.
• Waste Management: Implement a waste separation system to recycle and minimize waste. This can also include donating any excess food to local charities.
7. Creative Wrap-Up: Inspiring Activities to End the Event
A corporate brunch should not only focus on work, but also leave room for inspiration and creativity. Incorporating activities at the end of the event can help consolidate the ideas discussed and strengthen relationships between attendees.
• Team Building Dynamics: At the end of the brunch, organize team building activities in the garden, such as creative games or team challenges. These activities can be light, but they reinforce the sense of collaboration and togetherness within the group.
• Garden Walks: Encouraging attendees to take a walk through the Casa Ylang Ylang gardens can be a great way to conclude the event, allowing them to reflect on the topics discussed while enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Creative Brainstorming Session: If the goal of the brunch is innovation, host a short brainstorming session where each attendee can share fresh ideas or reflections that emerged during the event. You can use mobile whiteboards or whiteboards to capture the ideas generated.
Conclusion
The outdoor corporate brunch is an innovative option for business meetings, combining the beauty and tranquility of a natural setting with the structure needed for a productive meeting. By hosting a brunch in a space like Casa Ylang Ylang, companies can reap the benefits of a relaxed and creative atmosphere to foster collaboration and innovation. With careful planning, a healthy menu, and an adaptable space, these types of events can transform the way corporate meetings are conducted, creating more meaningful and productive experiences for all participants.