“A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.” Phyllis Diller
Say Cheese…
Smiles are a wonderful thing, they’re a lovely sign to ourselves and others that we’re feelin’ fine. We think everyone looks their best when they show off their pearly whites, you could even say they offer an instant makeover!
Tweet @studiovenues what makes you grin
What makes thestudio smile?
YOU!
It might sound cheesy, but we just can’t help it! We’re self-proclaimed feedback fanatics as without the good, the bad and the ugly, we wouldn’t know how to put a smile on your face.
There is another reason why we’re grinning from ear to ear… recently thestudioglasgow was chosen to host Children in Scotland’s young person’s question & answer session with Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon!
This charity event was aired on Scotland Tonight and can be caught on youtube! (Just click here if you’re curious ‘Scotland Tonight FMQT:Next Generation‘.)
Event Organiser Erin Butler from Children in Scotland shared some lovely words about her experience with us –
‘The young people on the design team for FMQT Next Generation were keen to find a venue that was relaxed, fun and flexible and The Studio ticked all of those boxes. We knew from experience that the staff are always so accommodating and true to form, nothing ever felt like too much trouble even when responding to the demands of the three different organisations involved with this project. I can’t speak highly enough of both the sales team in Birmingham and the operations team in Glasgow. I literally couldn’t fault them and we can’t wait to come back!’
So we’re celebrating world smile day with positive thoughts! P.S a cheeky grin is contagious, so the next time you see some give them your best as you never know… it could travel the world!
It’s time to raise that pinky and dust off those delicately decorated tiered dishes as this week we’re celebrating Afternoon Tea. A week dedicated to possibly the most British customs, it would be a sin not to get involved with some fun facts and the possibility of winning scones!
Tweet us your first choice finger food pic @studiovenues… The best pic could win complimentary scones to go with their next event!
3 things you might not have known…
1. Just what the Duchess ordered. Afternoon tea came about as a royal “pick me up”, in the 1800’s it was common for people to survive off only two meals a day! No wonder the Duchess of Bedford introduced bite size delights to her daily routine. We couldn’t imagine eating only twice a day, could you?
2. Low tea or high tea? Thankfully neither involves stilts or retreating to the basement! Both teas reveal social status, the time they’re eaten and, funnily enough, the table height! In the past, low tea was a commonly set up on coffee tables as a pre-dinner indulgence enjoyed by the high class. Unlike the middle class who’d enjoy it as a substitute for dinner and was commonly served at the dinner table… We like to think food as a gateway to building relationships. A cheeky afternoon tea is a brilliant way to break up the day and of course connect with those around you…
3. Intruder scones! That’s right, scones crashed the party, they weren’t part of the traditional selection of bites but were introduced during the 20th century. Now there’s only one question left to ask… a dollop of cream or jam first?
So much selection…
Bursting with sweet and savoury options, afternoon tea is a winner when it comes to social gatherings. Break the ice and start circulating, food is always a great conversation starter… Who knows it might end up with a new business venture! Luckily you don’t have to search far and wide for a great selection, we’re happy to host! Or you can do as thestudio team are doing… enjoying it throughout the week! Happy afternoon teaing from thestudio.
Scouting the perfect location for a team get together is like trying to find a needle in a hay stack.
Why not tie that team gathering this summer into … “Celebrating Yorkshire”? We’ll let you in on 3 reasons why getting out of the office and spending time with your team in this beautiful shire will be great for mind, body and soul.
Writers block…
Thoughtful spaces inspire fresh thoughts, unique ideas and encourage new perspectives… The best way to reap the benefits of a new mind set is to change your view! And what a better place to do this than good ol’ Yorkshire? Displaying the most beautiful British scenery, the two national parks: Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors are the perfect places to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Being surrounded by nature soothes the motorway of speeding thoughts we experience and help us to hone in on our problem-solving skills. Remember… you’re a human being, not a human doing!
Value for money …
Feeling like you’ve got the most out of your buck can be extremely satisfying. A guiltfree splurge is just what the doctor ordered, especially if it’s for the benefit of your team! Getting good value and being mindful of the best way to spend your pennies is on everyone’s mind … Leeds is a hot destination for everything you could want from a city in a neat little package. From great night life to stunning views, its also home to thestudio’s 3rd venue where we are offering some fantastic summer team away day packages including BBQ’s on our roof terrace, the perfect spot to take in those amazing Leeds views.
Stick the kettle on…
We British love our tea. Whether its black, herbal or a builder’s brew, everyone has that little extra room for an afternoon treat. And what better way to enjoy it than have a Yorkshire’s finest! Yorkshire Tea is one of England’s proudest blends but when it comes to food and drink, the north has it all! Who doesn’t love Yorkshire puddings, Jelly Tots, Wensleydale Cheese and Henderson’s relish?
Offering a break from reality, inexpensive meeting spaces and a whole host of delectables, Yorkshire delivers in abundance. We hope to see you there soon!
We’ve made it to the semi finals! It’s the perfect reason to be singing football’s coming home. With the World Cup in our sights, football fever has truly gripped the nation, including of course thestudioteam who’ve been listening to matches on the radio! We all love a bit of retro.
Did you know our sporting prowess and events co-ordination go hand in hand? Check out our top 3 similarities we noticed whist watching the world cup!
Dream Team…
If you’re an avid sports fan, we’re sure you’ve dreamt up a team made from your favourite players! Managers always substitute players for a change of pace. A brilliant game outcome really does hinge on skill, co-ordination and most importantly a great team effort. Which made us think… The smooth running of any event can become quickly undone without flawless team work! Thankfully, for those on the pitch and in your dedicated events team, collaboration is what we do best, we strive to be a team of players!
Pass, run, score…
Funnily enough, quick thinking and nifty footwork are event management essentials! It takes a lot of flair and experience to effortlessly pirouette through bespoke requests and offer valuable customers just what they’re looking for. Problem solving and seeking opportunity are bread and butter, at times it might seem as impossible as working through France’s defence, but rest assured it’s possible!
Saving the day…
No one likes the nail biting, cut throat nature of penalties. But all is not lost in the hands of a great goalie! Much like having faith in a player’s capabilities, leaving your planning to the experts takes the edge off!
Fingers crossed we make it to the final. Come on England.
Dive into a truly alien world where luminous creatures glow in the dark and where giants slumber… We’re not talking about the latest sci – fi to hit the silver screen; welcome to our oceans.
Deep Blue
Today we want to hone in on our oceans being much more than just a body of water: they’re home to all marine life, complex currents which affect the climate and not to mention their inspirational sheer beauty.
If thestudio has had the pleasure of welcoming you, there’s no doubt you’ll have noticed our love of quotes! Here’s one of our ocean themed favourites (tweet us @studiovenues if you know which room/venue it can be found):
“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” Andre Gide
Gentle giant…
A little bit of trivia to impress your guests… the great Pacific is our largest ocean and has a Latin name which means “peaceful sea”!
Oxymoron…
Did you know our oceans help to produce oxygen? It’s True! Little, tiny plants called Phytoplankton are thought to contribute a mind blowing 50-85% of the air we breathe!
Covering over 70% of the Earth’s surface and making up to 78% of our own bodies, water’s importance in creating and sustaining life is undeniable. Apart from being a vital component to life in general, we wouldn’t be able to have half as much fun without our seemingly infinite amount of H2o… Imagine a life time without water parks, balloons and fights! Or never getting to watch the sun dip below the blue horizon. Pretty dull right?
Plastic pollution…
There’s no time to beat around the bush, though we love our oceans, the plastic we produce and dispose of is having a detrimental effect on our irreplaceable oceans. But all is not lost, if we change to create a better future. For this reason, thestudio is dedicated to reducing the amount of plastic used within our venues. In the 21st century we’re blessed with a multitude of options! Let’s raise a glass and celebrate World Oceans Day… paper straw anyone?
We’ve all experienced it. Gone to a disappointing BBQ where there were no welcome drinks, blackened burgers easily mistaken for coal and baps soggier than the British weather…
Thankfully we’re here to make sure, come rain or shine, that your BBQ’s are the best on the block! Be warned, intoxicated passers-by might want an invite!
Rock your grill with our top 5 sure-fire ways to organise and host the best BBQ ever…
1. Imagine being welcomed into a party where there was a fancy drinks station covering options from water to punch and another table filled with mouth-watering dips, crisps, crackers and only the best crudities… sounds dreamy. Having a drinks and nibbles station is the way to go in making a great first impression. Plus, it helps ease the pressure off having to slave away on the barbie straight away.
2. Sleep on it! Create out of this world flavours by marinating your fan favourite meats and veggies then leaving them to soak in the night before = winner.(As long as you don’t burn them of course!). Tease and tantalise your guests taste buds with adventurous spice blends. We’ve got a few in our cookbook, have you had a thumb through yet?
3. Finishing touches… compliment fiery, sweet and smoky barbecue flavours with sensationally seasoned salads and side dishes. These can be prepared in advance and assembled at the last minute to give you the ultimate title of being The Host with the Most!
4. Have the element of surprise by wowing your guests with sweet treats. Ever tried flame grilled pineapple kebabs? Delicious! How about a hot banana Sunday? The possibilities are endless…
5. Mood maker… set the feel of your event and say no to awkward silences by playing fun background music, it’s a brilliant ice breaker. Remember atmosphere is everything!
Bonus tip from our Grill Master Richard Holden:
“Use the lid and master the art of grilling vs. roasting on your barbecue. Closing the lid will surround your food with heat and cook it quicker than on an open grill. Start foods over the heat to achieve those gorgeous caramelisation marks before moving to an area of roasting heat to cook through thoroughly. I always use a digital thermometer to check my food is safely cooked before serving to guests and my golden rule is “75 – Stayin’ Alive!” The core of your food should be 75c in order that it’s safe to eat.”
Now you’re on the road to becoming a barbecue master! Interested in having an expert Richard Holden show you a thing or two? Feel free to ask our team or click here…
Happy hosting from thestudio, you’ll most likely catch us basking on our roof terraces!
It’s heating up at thestudio this May as we’ve got some exciting news to share! Our cookbook BALANCE has arrived in all of our venues and is rammed with over 60 healthy recipes!
The book fits perfectly with our food philosophy, an affordable but beautiful book that has been created in response to the amount times we have heard “lunch was delicious” can you ask the chef for the recipe!
But here’s a few things you might not have known about our little book of BALANCE …
Not for profit…
That’s right, this little number is a not for profit book! All the proceeds go directly to supporting the Nutrition & Diet Resource UK a not for profit organisation for patient centred care working in the public and private sector. It really is all about the food and promoting healthy balanced diets!
Daily dine…
If you’ve attended, are going to attend or actually are at thestudio this very moment, chances are you’ll be lunching on one of the recipes from “Balance”! With over 60 fresh, exciting and inspired dishes that have all appeared on our menus at some point, you won’t be short of combinations to choose from. Aside from an undeniably delicious afternoon break, it’s serves as the perfect time to show guests what thestudio’s made of!
Swapsies…
Things are better when everyone can enjoy them, that’s why on a lot of our recipes, whether it’s for ethical or health reasons, we’ve highlighted ingredients within the recipes that can swapped to suit your dietary needs. Balance has a section dedicated to adapting to special diets from veganism to gluten free… we’ve got a dish for you!
Hats off to the chef…
Compliments were driving force behind the whole idea, each location chef has been involved in the creation of the book, thestudio thought it would be great to give something back to the guests who love their food, offering up the opportunity to impress their friends and family with some tasty dishes. All of this whilst contributing to the bigger picture.
Nutrition is the key …
All the recipes have been analysed by Nutritics software, so you can be assured (if you can stick to just one portion!) of the energy, fat, carbohydrate, protein and salt content in each dish.
We’d love to hear about your favourite foodie experience at our venues, tweet @studiovenues your favourite dishes and remember, if you’d like to find out more, we’re just a fork call away…
What’s that sound?
The melody of excited whistling kettles and the magical chiming of swirling spoons fills the air… It’s time to make some music… Let’s stick on a brew and make a song & dance about Tea! That’s right, it’s National Tea Day.
Hi Chai…
Us Brits are well known for being avid tea drinkers, whether it’s enjoying an afternoon filled with cakes and bite sized sandwiches or nuzzling into a fluffy blanket on a cold day, everything seems so much brighter accompanied by a good cuppa.
We’ve been drinking tea for centuries! Did you know the earliest record of sipping this humble leaf originated in 3rd century China? It’s no wonder this lovely leaf has achieved, quite frankly, world domination. With almost an infinite variety of blends, infusions and combinations, this once mainly medicinal potion has expanded its branches and planted obsession into hearts all over the world.
Hot or cold, this delicious drink comes with a whole heap of impressive health benefits: antioxidants, bone protection, boosting your immune system… just to name a few!
Milk and two sugars…
Making tea is a serious business. It’s the ultimate challenge in timing and ratio skills, a touch too much milk or leaving the bag in can really dictate if the mug you made with love gets left untouched… To make absolutely certain this never happens, thestudio team have a tea chart in their office highlighting acceptable shades of tea!
Can’t tell your tea cups to your tea pots? Help is at hand! Get your skills up to scratch by clicking here… A sure fire way to win the hearts of everyone in the office. (p.s don’t forget to bring some cake to sweeten the deal).
Mug to glug…
@thestudio nothing can beat a good cuppa. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just need a morning ‘pick me up’, from energetic green tea, a good ol’ Tetley or a soothing Earl Grey… we’ll have your tea needs covered!
Imagine if you could help the local community whilst attending your teams’ yearly round up or weekly meet up. Sound impossible? Not quite! Here at thestudio, we like to bring innovative ideas to the table and make them the centre piece of everything we do. We’ve achieved just that with thestudiomanchester’s alternative, collaborative, self-contained events space: The Classroom.
Every day’s a school day…
How does booking The Classroom help the local community? Let’s fill you in… thestudiomanchester is partnered up with incredible children’s charity: Wood Street Mission. With each get-together The Classroom hosts, a £10 donation goes towards Wood Street Mission’s fantastic work. They believe all children should live a poverty free life, encourage children to value education and offering practical guidance so families can raise themselves out of poverty. Knowing that you’ve helped a budding young mind have confidence in their brilliance and supporting them in having the best start in life will make the unlimited retro snacks even sweeter.
Saved by the bell…
Children are our future engineers, doctors, writers, architects… we believe they all deserve the opportunity to shine bright. With the £10 going directly to Wood Street Mission‘s SmartStart initiative, we’ll be able to support a child in need’s first steps into education by supplying them with essential school clothes and equipment!
From thestudio team, we thank everyone who has helped us improve the lives of many Greater Manchester families through using The Classroom. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Wood Street Mission and of course working with you!
Keep calm and carry on…
For us Brits, we’re renowned worldwide for having a “stiff upper lip” approach to life. Though, this might not always be the case… It’s natural to feel overwhelmed and experience stress, trust us, we work in the events industry! On a brighter note, stress isn’t malicious, it’s our bodily and mental reaction to a given situation and for prehistoric man, it would’ve saved their cotton socks. Without stress induced flight or fight mode… we may not be here…
Let your hair down…
Life is such a rush, especially with our constant use of computers, laptops, tablets and smart phones. With everything being so stimulating, it can be quite hard to switch off and unwind. Thankfully there is a cure! So, step away from your smart phone and give those eyes a well-deserved rest. Changing your view and giving yourself some much-needed head space really helps. Think back to what you really love to do and indulge in it!
We can help…
Feeling the pressure? Give our punch bag a few swings! Feeling frustrated? Take it out on our foosball table! We’ve got a few things dotted around our venues to help offer you a new perspective that are a bit of fun! It is said you can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation… don’t pass up on our building on our Lego wall. Psst, if you love colouring in, turn over our studio headed paper for a nice surprise!
Did you know Grace Marshall runs Think Productive’ Stress Less Achieve More workshops at thestudiobirmingham? If the source of your stress is an overwhelm of too much to do in too little time and a constant feeling of information overload and distraction, Grace will show you how to reduce stress by eliminating those nagging feelings of doubt, guilt and overload panic, and replace them with a focused, playful, purposeful and productive momentum.
Book onto the next one at thestudiobirmingham here: stresslessoct2018.eventbrite.co.uk
Balance…
If we’ve had the pleasure of hosting your meeting or special event, you’ll have noticed aside for our vibrant décor, we love the colour grey. So much so we incorporated it into our logo. But why grey you ask? Other than reminding you of the typical British sky’s colour, it promotes balance and complete harmony, the comfortable medium between light and dark. We’re firm believers in work hard, play harder. A work life balance is essential and thestudio team are encouraged to switch off after their days commitment. Once the team even had a masseuse visit and take a 15-minute massage within their work day!
Proof is in the pudding…
Check out the NHS online, they have some great advice on managing those dreaded stress levels. Making small changes can offer a whole new world!
