Hi, I’m Jayne from Venue@Cornerstone, and one of the questions I’m often asked is why a Manchester business would choose to hold an event in Stockport. For me, it’s all about making life easier. We’re just 9 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly, making us an ideal meeting point for colleagues, clients and partners travelling from across Greater Manchester. Instead of everyone heading into a busy city centre, Stockport offers a well-connected location that’s easy to reach by train, bus and nearby public parking, helping people spend less time travelling and more time getting value from the day.

1. Get everyone out of the usual routine
   Sometimes the best ideas come when people step away from their desks. Holding your meeting offsite can help attendees focus, think differently and feel more engaged.
2. Have an icebreaker: Here’s a simple Laughing Yoga icebreaker that works well at the start of a workshop or team session – This might feel a little silly, but that’s the point it’s about having a laugh together:

• Say “Hello Laugh”
• Ask everyone to stand in a loose circle.
• Each person turns to someone nearby, makes eye contact and says “hello” followed by an exaggerated laugh.
• The other person copies the laugh back.
• Move on to someone new and try a completely different laugh: quiet giggle, booming laugh, chuckle, etc.
• Finish with everyone laughing together for a few seconds.

This might feel a little silly, but that’s the point. We’re going to start by dropping our inhibitions a little and having a laugh together.”

3. Keep everyone fuelled throughout the day
   A steady supply of tea, coffee and good food goes a long way. Nobody does their best work when they’re hungry or waiting for the next caffeine fix. No one will say no to a sweet treat at 3pm.
4. Make time for conversations, not just presentations
   Some of the most valuable discussions happen during breaks. Giving people time to chat, share ideas and network can be just as important as the formal agenda.
5. Mix things up
   A full day of PowerPoint presentations can be hard work. Include group discussions, workshops and interactive sessions to keep energy levels high and encourage participation.
6. Give people a reason to remember the day
   Whether it’s an inspiring speaker, a team activity or simply a great venue, adding something a little different helps create a more enjoyable and memorable experience.

In a nutshell…  A successful offsite meeting isn’t just about what happens in the room. It’s about creating the right environment for people to connect, collaborate and leave feeling inspired.