Venue: Haynes Motor Museum
Tell me a little bit about your work history :
I have worked as a Commercial Manager across a select range of venues in the Southwest, all of which had a central mission, where the commercial operations support charitable or educational initiatives. It’s incredibly rewarding to work in an environment where my efforts contribute to a meaningful cause.
What do you love most about your job?
The diversity of the role and the department is what I love most; no two days are the same. The opportunity to be involved in such a wide range of events and the variety of companies we work with is always exciting. I enjoy the challenge of adapting to different needs and expectations, and there’s a real satisfaction in seeing each event come together successfully, knowing we’ve helped create memorable experiences for our clients.
What facilities does Haynes Museum offer for corporates?
We offer a unique and versatile venue for corporate events in Somerset. As well as being conveniently located off the A303 in Sparkford, we have six adaptable function suites, accommodating up to 300 guests within a stunning museum setting. We offer a range of packages, and are the ideal venue for AGMs, conferences award dinners, product launches, team-building days and Christmas parties. Our spaces include a larger and versatile suite, a flexible meeting room, a relaxed meeting area, a spacious exhibition hall, and outdoor areas like the Paddock and Astro field. If clients are looking to create a truly memorable experience, both the Museum’s Red Room and Williams F1 exhibition spaces are also available to book.
What sets you apart from other venues?
Our unique selling point has to the Museum itself, we offer corporate client’s complimentary access on their event day, a fantastic addition to any event, as it provides attendees with a unique break from typical event sessions, offering an inspiring environment and allows participants to refresh, fostering creative thinking and meaningful networking. With over 40 red cars all in one exhibition space, the Red Room in particular has the wow factor!
What’s the most unusual request you have had?
During my days as a wedding coordinator, I managed a stunning Grade I listed building with equally lovely grounds. On one occasion, a prospective couple asked if we had peacocks roaming the property. I explained that we didn’t, as the venue operated as a busy boarding school during term time. They then enquired if we could purchase some peacocks to feature at their wedding. Deciding it best to handle this one myself, I refrained from requesting budget for a resident peacock—though, admittedly, I think the students would have loved it! Luckily no requests at the Museum, so far!
Whats the most memorable event you have organised?
I’ve been doing this for a long time now, so picking just one memorable event is hard. One event that does come to mind more recently, is the DriveTribe event held at the Museum last Summer. This was particularly memorable for us being the largest event, we have hosted, utilising the whole site including the outdoor spaces, event rooms along with the Museum itself. It was a real team effort; every member of the Museum came together to ensure a successful event. This experience paved the way for future events at the Museum of this scale, including the launch of the Museum’s very first classic car show, The John Haynes Classic coming September 2025.
What advice can you give to our readers when booking events?
Understanding the fundamentals of your event is the most crucial first step in planning an event, start your enquiries with your non-negotiables to narrow down your search. Wherever possible plan as far in advance as possible, you are more likely to have flexibility and finally consider each stage of the ‘customer journey,’ beginning with travel time, this can affect timelines and the catering options you offer. Small adjustments can make a significant impact on delegates’ experience, ensuring they leave the event with the impression you envisioned when planning. I share behind-the-scenes insights to simplify and enhance the event planning process through blog articles, to stay updated, follow Haynes Motor Museum on LinkedIn or visit our website https://www.haynesmuseum.org/blog
What changes/plans/news do you have for 2025?
Our 2025 calendar is filling up quickly, with numerous awards ceremonies, auctions, and corporate events already scheduled. This year, we’re also introducing summer corporate celebrations to take advantage of our fantastic outdoor spaces: the terrace and astro area provide an ideal setting for colleagues to come together—whether for networking, idea-sharing, or simply enjoying a relaxed summers day or evening as a team. Additionally, we’ll be launching team-building packages, featuring a variety of activities perfect for icebreakers and as enhancements to any corporate event. Finally, our biggest event of the year is The John Haynes Classic car show, we are excited to be launching the annual event. This inaugural John Haynes Classic marks the 40th anniversary since John founded Haynes Motor Museum in July 1985 as a charity. This fundraising show will support the continuing work of the Museum: the ongoing preservation and conservation of the collection, and an ambitious education programme which aims to inspire the next generation of automotive enthusiasts and engineers.