Event Setup Standards
Every successful event begins with a thoughtful and well-executed setup. Explore step by step Event Setup Standards helping you create environments that are both functional and customer-centric.
Service Standards
Steps of Service
There can be as many deviations from this sequence as there are meetings or events in your hotel. Be prepared, as the nature of our business involves change and flexibility.
Daily Detail Report (DDR) and Diagrams
Understanding the various types of event room sets is a main function of the Event Setup department. Specific instructions listing exact details for each meeting or event are noted in the Daily Detail Report (DDR) and on the Diagrams. Keep in mind that these details can change up until the actual event.
Staffing
Pre-Event
Teardown
Registration
Conference & Boardroom
Hollow Square
U-Shape
U-shape style seating is an event setup with tables and chairs arranged in the shape of a “U,” with the open end facing a presentation area, screen, or speaker. This layout supports both interaction and focus, making it ideal for smaller, collaborative sessions.
VIP Set and Enhancements
We most commonly see a VIP Set added to Conference, Hollow Square, and U-shape sets.
Theater
Theater seating arranges chairs in rows with appropriate aisles facing a stage or presentation area, designed to maximize capacity and visibility without tables. Because theater seating offers limited workspace and minimal movement, it is discouraged for long sessions unless breaks are intentionally built into the agenda.
Classroom & Schoolroom
Crescent Rounds
Crescent rounds are a popular event seating style that uses round tables but seats guests only around half or two-thirds of the table, leaving one side open and facing the front of the event room.
Banquet Rounds
Commonly used in event settings such as meal rooms, weddings, galas, and corporate dinners. Banquet Rounds are designed to promote conversation and efficient food service.
Mixed Seating
Mixed style seating incorporates a combination of setups such as rounds, theater, classroom, and highboys within one event room, giving guests the flexibility to choose how they engage based on their needs and preferences, creating their own Best Seat in the House.
Reception
Exhibits
Exhibit sets may include vendor tables or full booth installations within a ballroom or dedicated event venue. Clear Exhibit Hall Guidelines ensure consistent layout, flow, and overall guest and vendor experience.
Public Areas
Public areas such as foyers, pre-function spaces, corridors, and lobbies can serve as alternative event rooms for meal functions, offering guests a change of scenery and a more open, dynamic environment. As shared spaces within the hotel, these areas must remain presentable and clear of equipment when not in use.
Refreshes
Refreshes ensure the event room remains clean, organized, and guest ready throughout the day. Regular attention to details such as resetting materials, refreshing water, and maintaining overall presentation supports a seamless and consistent guest experience.
Care Station
Care Stations take our service a step further by showing CARE. They are the responsibility of Event Services and Setup. Care Stations must be present in every active event room, (or in shared spaces), stocked consistently, and displayed with purpose.
AV Considerations
Audio Visual plays a critical role in the overall event experience, and a strong partnership with your AV team is essential to successful execution. Thoughtful coordination ensures the room is designed to support equipment needs, sightlines, and a seamless guest experience.
Common Elements
Every meeting or event set will have common elements.These standards exist to ensure every event room environment—regardless of setup style—feels intentional.
Staging & Risers
Most portable risers measure 6' x 8' wide and are 8", 16", 24", or 32" high. These risers are used for head tables, bandstands, speaker platforms, and performance stages to allow speakers on the stage to be seen and heard by the audience.
Head Tables
A head table is a designated table for hosts, speakers, or VIP guests, positioned as a focal point within the event room, often centered and facing the guest seating or presentation area.
Lecterns & Podiums
Lecterns come in two different styles. A "Tabletop Podium" is placed on top of a head table and a "Free-standing Lectern” has wheels and sits directly on the floor or on a stage/riser.
Flag Etiquette
Dance Floors
Dance floor sets vary based on the event ensuring appropriate size, placement, and flow within the event room.