Planning an event in London? You already know how important it is to have the right AV equipment.
It’s not just about making sure your guests can hear or see what’s happening; it’s about creating a “WOW” factor that your guests won’t forget.
With so many event planners around, choosing the right one can feel like a challenge isn’t it? Especially in London’s competitive market, finding an AV vendor who’s both reliable and provides solid technical support isn’t a decision to take lightly.
Of course, one wrong choice could lead to technical problems, frustrated guests, and unnecessary stress. But don’t worry about that. We’ve compiled a list of key factors to look for so you can find a trustworthy Event production company in London that can make your event as successful as you want.
START BY KNOWING WHAT YOUR EVENT NEEDS
Before you start looking for an AV vendor, you need to know exactly what your event requires. Is it a small meeting that only requires a simple projector and sound system? Or are you planning a large event with LED screens, lighting, and a full sound system? Knowing your needs upfront helps you find a vendor that specialises in the kind of event you’re hosting.
Make sure to:
- Determine the size and type of your event
- Create a checklist of essential AV elements based on your event’s requirements.
- Estimate your budget for AV services
- Consider additional equipment such as lighting and video screens (if required at the last minute)
🎤 Pro Tip: According to Event industry news, most event failures are due to poor AV planning. Having a clear list of AV needs before reaching out to suppliers increases your chances of a flawless event.
1. MUST CHECK THEIR TRACK RECORD (EXPERIENCE MATTERS)
Not all AV vendors are the same. Some may have experience with weddings but struggle with large corporate events. Look for a vendor with experience in events like yours. Their track record will show if they can handle the scale and complexity of your event.
🎯 Fact: A reliable AV vendor is key when choosing an AV production company in London. Checking their track record is a must-have. Because if they’ve done it before (and done it well), they’ll likely do it well for your event.
2. CHECK REVIEWS (BUT DIG DEEPER)
Reading reviews is one of the best ways to learn about an AV vendor’s reliability. Dive into their online reviews and testimonials to see what past clients say about their professionalism and problem-solving ability. Platforms like Trustpilot and Google Reviews offer unbiased opinions.
👥 Word on the street: BrightLocal says 91% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. Make sure to read the real success stories of past clients.
3. ASK ABOUT CERTIFICATION AND ACCREDITATION
You may also inquire about certifications and industry accreditations they have. These indicate that the vendor meets specific standards in terms of equipment maintenance and safety, as well as customer service. Look for certifications from respected bodies like AVIXA or ISO standards, which show they are committed to quality and professionalism.
Accreditations also denote a vendor’s commitment to upholding health, safety, and technical expertise standards. Verifying such credentials will reassure you that they will provide reliable and good-quality equipment throughout your event.
4. EVALUATE THEIR EQUIPMENT QUALITY AND BRAND
Cutting corners on AV equipment can ruin your event. You do not need to deal with a microphone that cuts in and out or a projector that flickers. If you want to avoid last-minute mishaps, choose quality equipment.
Look for vendors who provide only the best-known, high-performing brand equipment. Ask vendors about their equipment to ensure that the gear they are bringing is up-to-date, properly maintained, and geared to the type of event you are planning. Using commercial-grade gear boosts reliability, minimises hiccups, and enhances the audio and visual impact of your presentations. With top-tier equipment, you are setting up for success.
5. FIND A VENDOR THAT MAINTAIN QUALITY WITH BUDGET
AV Services can be pricey, but that doesn’t mean you should pick the cheapest option. It’s important to find a vendor that offers both high-quality service and a price that fits your budget. Remember, you get what you pay for.
💸 Fact check: AV costs are one of the top three expenses for most events. The first and foremost is choosing a vendor that balances quality with competitive pricing.
6. MUST PROVIDES TECHNICAL SUPPORT:
Even the best AV equipment can have issues. That’s why on-site technical support is a must. Try to choose an AV vendor who will offer a dedicated team to fix problems as they some up, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
7. ASK / REQUEST FOR DEMOS OR EXAMPLES OF THEIR WORK
Don’t just take a vendor’s word for it. Ask to see their work. Whether it’s a video of past events or a live demo, seeing their AV setup in action will give you a clear idea of what they can offer.
💡 Looking for inspiration? Reliable AV Production companies like EMS Events showcase some of London’s most successful events on their platform, giving you a glimpse into what’s possible with top-tier AV Solutions.
8. ASK SOME STRATEGIC QUESTIONS TO YOUR AV VENDORS (BEFORE YOU FINALISE)
Choosing the right AV partner when planning an event is most important in delivering a smooth and impactful experience. To ensure you’re choosing the best fit, it’s key to dive a bit deeper with strategic questions.
Here’s a checklist to guide you in assessing if an AV vendor fits into your event’s vision and meets its event’s unique needs:
- What services and support do you offer?
- Can you provide a dedicated project manager?
- What experiences do you have with similar events?
- How do you communicate with clients and event planners during events?
- How flexible are you in accommodating last-minute changes or emergencies?
- Do you have any backup plan in case of technical issues?
- What are the costs involved, and can you provide an itemised quote?
- Do you have all the necessary certifications and insurance?
- What sets you apart from other AV vendors?
Final Thoughts:
The right AV vendors can make a huge difference between a good event and an unforgettable one. From high-end equipment to smart on-site technical support, a wonderful AV partner is sure to make everything go just as planned. Research, ask for demos, and check the reviews, and then you can make that choice for sure.
Ready to find your ideal AV partner in London? Look no further than EMS Events, the top AV hire and event production specialists in London. With over 25 years of experience and over 30,000 pieces of audio-visual equipment to hire. We have supported more than 20,000 corporate events in live, virtual, and hybrid settings. Don’t just take our word for it; you can also check out EMS Events Reviews to see why clients trust us.
You can come and visit our central London hub anytime to test our equipment and meet the team behind some of London’s most successful events.
Let EMS Events take your event to the next level by providing high-quality AV services and hassle-free support. We are just a call away.
