The Park, House of Events on 7, is a stylish meeting and blank-canvas events venue conveniently located on Hyde Park Corner and neighbouring the Southern Sun Hyde Park hotel. It was launched in October last year by Leah McCrae, now the managing director of The Park, who has worked in the events industry for 24 years.
How did your business start?
I had been working in the entertainment and events industry since 1991, and in 1999, I started New Age Events & Production Company. After many years in the industry, I needed a change of pace, so decided to open an urban business lounge. After some searching, I found the venue, which lent itself to an entirely different concept.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
I fell in love with the height of the ceilings and open space, and I just saw opportunities for the events industry. It was a space that everyone would just fall in love with and transform into their own.
How did you find your premises?
I believe this space found me. As a very good friend of mine said, “It’s when preparation and opportunity meet.” So maybe luck had very little to do with it.
Why are the premises ideally suited to your business?
For the business lounge, we needed to be in the hub of a retail centre. But when we saw this space, it was just perfect for events and we couldn’t walk away from what just felt right.
Who are your neighbours?
The hotel and shops are a big drawcard for us.
What are the shop rental/ sales prices like in this area?
They are in keeping with the high-end luxury surroundings.
How many people go through your store each day?
There obviously isn’t any pedestrian traffic for events, but on an event day, we can host anywhere between 220 people for a banquet to just over 500 people at a conference.
Do you have any expansion plans?
For now, we want to perfect what we do and put all our energy into the current space and our clients. I’m excited to see what the future holds, but, for now, this is our absolute focus.
Do you operate online as well?
We do assist our clients online, especially when they have deadlines to meet, but brainstorms are always best in the space where clients get to see the opportunities for themselves.
What’s your most popular item?
Our team all come from live production, theatre, staging and launch events. I believe this is our biggest strength and what our clients benefit from most.
The Park, House of Events on 7
Leah: 081 873 3327
Words: Georgina Guedes
Images: Supplied
