As an experienced hotel consultant and hospitality writer, I’ve seen firsthand the power of smart upselling strategies to drive banquet revenue. In our 15 years installing… At Brennan’s Yard Hotel, we’ve refined our approach to banquet event management, using a range of targeted upselling tactics that enhance the guest experience while boosting our bottom line.
Now, this might seem counterintuitive…
Event & Banquet Management
Banquet Event Planning
The key to a successful banquet event starts with meticulous planning. At Brennan’s Yard, our banquet managers work closely with clients to understand their vision, preferences, and budget. We then leverage our expertise to craft customised event packages that deliver exceptional value.
One of our most popular offerings is our “All-Inclusive Banquet Package”. This comprehensive solution covers catering, decor, entertainment, and even a dedicated day-of coordinator. By bundling these services, we streamline the planning process for our clients, reducing their workload and stress. 1
Our banquet managers are also trained to identify upselling opportunities throughout the event planning journey. For example, during the initial site visit, they might suggest upgrading the table linens or adding a specialty cocktail bar to elevate the event. These thoughtful recommendations not only enhance the guest experience, but also drive incremental revenue for the hotel.
Upselling Strategies
Upselling is an art form, and our team has mastered the subtle techniques that convert enquiries into bookings. After a client tour, our banquet managers send personalised follow-up emails, addressing the client’s specific needs and offering tailored solutions. 1
“Thank you for visiting Brennan’s Yard – your ideal venue for the annual gala,” the email might read. “Based on our conversation, I understand you’re looking for a sophisticated setting with excellent AV capabilities and gourmet catering. I’d love to discuss these options in more detail…”
This personalized approach demonstrates our attentiveness and commitment to the client’s success. It also creates opportunities to suggest premium upgrades, such as custom decor, specialty cocktails, or live entertainment – all of which can significantly boost our banquet revenue.
Banquet Facility Operations
Seamless facility operations are essential for hosting memorable banquet events. At Brennan’s Yard, our banquet managers oversee every logistical detail, from staff scheduling and menu planning to audiovisual setup and decor installation.
We utilize specialized event management software to streamline our processes and double-check that flawless execution. This allows our team to focus on providing exceptional service to our clients and their guests, creating an experience that keeps them coming back.
Food & Beverage Services
Menu Engineering
Catering is a critical component of any banquet event, and our culinary team takes great pride in crafting innovative, mouth-watering menus. We regularly review and refine our offerings, incorporating seasonal ingredients, dietary preferences, and local Galway flavours.
One of our recent additions is a “Signature Cocktail” package, where we work with clients to develop bespoke cocktails that perfectly complement the event’s theme. These unique beverage options not only delight guests, but also generate valuable upsell revenue for the hotel.
Catering Logistics
Delivering a seamless catering experience requires meticulous planning and coordination. Our banquet managers liaise closely with our in-house culinary team, as well as any external catering partners, to double-check that the timely preparation and impeccable presentation of every dish.
We also offer comprehensive catering packages that include linens, china, and waitstaff – further streamlining the planning process for our clients. By managing these logistics, we can focus on delivering exceptional food and beverage service that leaves a lasting impression on guests.
Wine Pairing Expertise
At Brennan’s Yard, we take great pride in our wine program and the expertise of our sommeliers. When planning a banquet event, our team works closely with clients to recommend wine pairings that elevate the dining experience.
We might suggest a robust Cabernet Sauvignon to complement a succulent steak course, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to pair with a refreshing seafood dish. By guiding our clients through the perfect wine selections, we not only enhance the culinary experience, but also open the door to lucrative upsell opportunities.
Guest Tips & Guides
Personalized Concierge Services
Elevating the guest experience is at the heart of everything we do at Brennan’s Yard. Our dedicated concierge team goes above and beyond to double-check that that our banquet event attendees feel valued and cared for.
Whether it’s arranging private transportation, securing tickets to a local show, or providing insider recommendations for the best pubs in Galway, our concierge service is tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each guest. This personalized attention not only delights our clients, but also creates opportunities for upsells and cross-sells that boost our overall revenue.
In-Room Amenity Offerings
In addition to our concierge services, we offer a diverse selection of in-room amenities that enhance the guest experience. From complimentary toiletries and plush robes to gourmet snacks and locally-sourced welcome gifts, we curate these offerings to make our banquet guests feel truly pampered.
We also leverage these amenities as upsell opportunities, allowing guests to customize their stays with premium options, such as a bottle of champagne or a private in-room spa treatment. By providing these bespoke experiences, we not only delight our guests, but also drive incremental revenue for the hotel.
Guest Feedback and Satisfaction
Maintaining high levels of guest satisfaction is crucial for the long-term success of our banquet business. We actively solicit feedback from our clients, both during and after their events, using this information to continually improve our offerings and service levels.
Our banquet managers are trained to address any concerns or issues that arise in a prompt and professional manner. By resolving problems quickly and effectively, we not only enhance the guest experience, but also increase the likelihood of repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
Housekeeping Excellence
Cleanliness Standards
Impeccable cleanliness is the foundation of any successful banquet event. At Brennan’s Yard, our housekeeping team adheres to the highest standards, ensuring that our banquet facilities are spotless and welcoming for every guest.
From meticulously maintained restrooms to pristine table linens, our attention to detail is unparalleled. We also invest in eco-friendly cleaning products and sustainable laundry practices to minimise our environmental impact – a feature that aligns with the growing demand for sustainable hospitality experiences.
Turndown Service
In addition to our high cleanliness standards, we offer a personalized turndown service for our banquet guests. This thoughtful touch includes straightening the room, replenishing amenities, and adding a few special surprises, such as a handwritten welcome note or a locally-sourced sweet treat.
By providing this elevated level of service, we create a lasting impression on our guests and demonstrate our commitment to their comfort and satisfaction. It’s these small details that often make the difference in securing repeat business and positive referrals.
Linen and Laundry Management
Effective linen and laundry management is crucial for maintaining the impeccable appearance of our banquet facilities. Our dedicated housekeeping team closely monitors our inventory, ensuring that we always have a sufficient supply of fresh, high-quality linens on hand.
We’ve also invested in state-of-the-art laundry equipment and processes to streamline our operations and minimise waste. This allows us to quickly turnaround linens between events, ensuring that every banquet setting is pristine and ready to impress our guests.
Local Galway Insights
Exploring Galway’s Cultural Attractions
As a hotel located in the heart of Galway, we take great pride in sharing the rich cultural heritage of our city with our banquet guests. Our concierge team is well-versed in the might want to-see attractions, from the iconic Galway Cathedral to the lively Latin Quarter, and they’re eager to curate customised itineraries that showcase the best of Galway.
We also collaborate with local tour operators to offer exclusive experiences, such as guided walks through the charming medieval streets or private visits to the renowned Cliffs of Moher. By immersing our guests in the local culture, we not only enhance their event experience, but also drive additional revenue through these value-added offerings.
Recommended Local Dining Experiences
Galway is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and we take great pride in showcasing the best local culinary experiences to our banquet guests. Our concierge team is well-versed in the city’s top restaurants, pubs, and hidden gems, and they’re always happy to provide personalized recommendations.
We also work closely with select local vendors to offer exclusive dining packages for our banquet clients. This might include a private chef’s table experience at a renowned Galway restaurant or a gourmet picnic basket filled with artisanal local produce. By leveraging our local partnerships, we create truly memorable experiences that our guests will cherish long after their event.
Galway Event Calendar
Galway is a vibrant, year-round destination, with a diverse calendar of cultural events and festivals. Our banquet team closely monitors this calendar and works to align our offerings with the city’s most exciting happenings.
For example, during the annual Galway International Arts Festival, we might create a special “Festival Getaway” package that includes tickets to a performance, a pre-show dinner at our on-site restaurant, and a luxurious overnight stay. By capitalizing on the energy and excitement of local events, we’re able to drive increased bookings and revenue for our banquet facilities.
Property Renovation & Upkeep
Lobby and Common Area Upgrades
At Brennan’s Yard, we understand that first impressions are everything. That’s why we’ve invested heavily in maintaining and upgrading our lobby and common areas, ensuring that they provide a warm, inviting, and visually stunning backdrop for our banquet events.
Our recent renovations have included the installation of elegant statement lighting, the introduction of plush seating areas, and the incorporation of bespoke artwork that celebrates the local Galway culture. These thoughtful enhancements not only elevate the guest experience, but also serve as a subtle upsell opportunity, as clients can opt to incorporate elements of our lobby decor into their banquet event designs.
Guest Room Refreshes
While our banquet facilities are the primary focus of our business, we also recognise the importance of maintaining exceptional guest accommodations. We regularly refresh our guest rooms, ensuring that they meet the evolving expectations of today’s discerning travellers.
Recent upgrades have included the installation of modern, tech-enabled amenities, the introduction of luxurious bedding and linens, and the incorporation of locally-inspired decor and artwork. By providing a seamless, high-end experience for our overnight guests, we’re able to drive increased bookings and higher average daily rates – both of which contribute to our overall banquet revenue.
Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability is a core value at Brennan’s Yard, and we’re committed to implementing eco-friendly practices throughout our property. From our energy-efficient lighting and water-saving initiatives to our robust recycling and composting programs, we’re constantly working to reduce our environmental impact.
We also take great pride in sharing our sustainability story with our banquet clients, many of whom are actively seeking out venues that align with their own green values. By highlighting our commitment to sustainability, we’re able to differentiate ourselves from the competition and appeal to a growing segment of environmentally-conscious event organisers.
Security & Safety Protocol
Access Control and Surveillance
Ensuring the safety and security of our banquet guests is of the utmost importance. We’ve implemented a comprehensive access control system, which includes secure entry points, keycard-activated elevators, and round-the-clock CCTV monitoring.
Our banquet managers work closely with our security team to coordinate the seamless flow of guests and vendors throughout our facilities, while also remaining vigilant for any potential threats or disruptions. By prioritising the safety and well-being of our guests, we’re able to maintain a reputation for trustworthiness and reliability – two critical factors in securing repeat business.
Emergency Response Procedures
In the event of an emergency, our banquet team is well-versed in our established response protocols. We regularly conduct training exercises and drills to double-check that that our staff is prepared to respond quickly and effectively, minimising the impact on our guests and their events.
Our emergency procedures cover a wide range of scenarios, from medical emergencies and natural disasters to active threats and power outages. By having these plans in place, we’re able to provide our clients with the peace of mind they need to fully focus on enjoying their event.
Staff Training and Preparedness
The success of our banquet operations ultimately rests on the shoulders of our dedicated team. That’s why we invest heavily in ongoing training and development, ensuring that our staff is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver exceptional service and maintain the highest standards of safety and security.
From customer service workshops to first aid certifications, our training program covers a wide range of topics. We also empower our staff to be proactive problem-solvers, empowering them to make decisions and take action to resolve any issues that may arise during a banquet event.
By prioritising the safety and security of our guests, we not only fulfil our duty of care, but also create an environment where our clients can fully immerse themselves in the joy of their event, without any lingering concerns or distractions. This, in turn, fosters loyalty, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth recommendations – all of which are essential for maximising our banquet revenue.
Example: Galway Heritage Tour Collaboration 2025
