How CPS Events at The Plaza Hotel Uses AllSeated
As the behind the scenes maestro for all social, corporate and non-profit events for The Plaza Hotel in New York City, the CPS Events team depends on a turn-key floorplan platform to ensure each event is up to the iconic venue’s standards.
We spoke with the CPS Events team to get a look behind the scenes at how they use AllSeated to deliver outstanding one-of-a-kind events in the iconic Grand Ballroom, Terrace Room and meeting spaces of the landmark hotel on Fifth Avenue.
Making the Move to AllSeated
Since the hotel reopened in 2008, CPS has managed the venue’s private event spaces – which include more than 400 events a year!
Prior to adopting AllSeated, the team used an alternative floorplan system. Because the previous system had a clunky interface and faulty scalability, that led to mega spacing issues complicating and slowing down each event’s set-up.
As The Plaza plays host to small gatherings and extravagant weddings alike, managing the unique aspects of all of these different kinds of events was time-consuming with their previous floorplan program, with CPS Events staff frequently spending more time building renderings and floorplans instead of producing the event.
Since CPS Events started using AllSeated, the events team has used the platform to manage all event floorplans – both internally as well as with end clients.
Ali Papalia, Catering Sales Manager for CPS Events, says, “While there may be similar products out there, no other platform delivers on its value proposition with the added bonus of a great support team.”
Seeing The Plaza Hotel in Extraordinary Splendor
The Plaza Hotel debuted on October 1, 1907, with news reporters reportedly declaring it “the greatest hotel in the world.” No expense was spared in the construction. For example, the interior designer Henry Janeway Hardenbergh placed the single largest gold-encrusted china order in history with L. Straus & Sons, along with an order for 1,650 crystal chandeliers. In 1986, the hotel was designated a National Historic Landmark for its lavish architecture and luxurious details.
As one might imagine, all of these unique characteristics and design elements are what make events at The Plaza so extraordinary – and of course are important part considerations in the planning and event design process.
After onboarding, CPS Events event managers save time with all of AllSeated’s quick floorplan and inventory management tools. In addition, AllSeated rendered the meeting spaces in 2D, 3D, and virtual reality, which allows event floorplans to come to life to-scale in full-color splendor – right down to the iconic elements like arched windows, columns, balconies, molding details, railings, chandeliers, lighting sconces, flooring and more. Take a peek and virtually tour The Plaza’s event spaces via their website widget powered by AllSeated and you’ll likely recognize the events spaces from many Hollywood films!
In addition to having these renderings viewable on The Plaza Hotel website, CPS Events also gives all Plaza Hotel clients their own AllSeated login so they can make changes to their own floorplans, upload guest lists, collect RSVPs, assign guest seats and even assign meal preferences. According to Papalia, “Clients are more interested than ever in having access to their event floorplan and providing feedback in real time.”
By adopting AllSeated, CPS Events has an easy-to-use and precise floorplan, furniture inventory and collaborative platform at their fingertips – giving event managers the tools needed to focus more on generating new business and delivering exquisite client events. Says Papalia, “Using AllSeated guarantees our floorplans are to-scale. When we get to the day of an event and know for certain that things are where they’re supposed to be, clients and happy and the whole experience is positive.”
If you’re interested in learning more about using AllSeated, contact us for a demo.
