Off to Work - Latest News
Off to Work is delighted to launch its Event School for 2013, with a special focus on style and design.
With names like Masterchef winner Keri Moss and former The Apprentice contestant Miriam Staley within the speaker line-up, bookings are expected to be snapped up quickly for the two-day workshop series, which will run on Tuesday 9th and Wednesday 10th April at the London Irish Centre, Off to Work’s dedicated Training Academy in Camden, London.
Building on the success of last year’s school, Event School 2013 will bring together renowned professionals from successful creative businesses to deliver a practical, workshop-led programme focusing on specific areas of the event planning and delivery cycle.
From a designer ‘mocktail’ mixing masterclass with Sejuiced and a lesson in wine buying for events with Blanco & Gomez, to workshops in food styling and event storytelling through photography with Red Photographic, room theming and lighting with Wise Production, plus content marketing and event communication tips from Custard Communications, Event School 2013 is aimed at event planners, event coordinators and managers, event agencies, caterers, F&B staff, chefs, marketing staff and business development teams.
Highlights of the programme include a networking lunch and concurrent panel debate on ‘Menu design for events’, featuring Keri Moss, winner of MasterChef: The Professionals 2012, Nick Mead, director at Eden Catering, Vicky O’Hare, managing director of Party Ingredients and Gerald Aberdeen, executive head chef for Table Talk. These expert menu developers and chefs will share tips and tricks for planning a show-stopping selection of dishes that are not diluted by challenging dietary restrictions.
The workshop style of the programme means that delegates can pick and choose which ‘modules’ best fit their job role and requirements and attend these sessions as one-off learning experiences.
“We’re pleased to welcome our clients, our team and all events professionals to attend any or all of the Event School’s workshops. We’ve designed workshops to be intimate, with a cap on 20 people, to ensure you can enjoy a focused and interactive learning environment,” said Philip Atkins. The exceptions to this are the educational, networking lunches.
Event School 2013: Style & Design will take place on 9th & 10th April 2013 at London Irish Centre, Camden Square, London, NW1 9XB. For the full workshop programme, to find out more information or to book, please email Lucy Katan on lucy.katan@offtowork.co.uk, call 020 3155 1975, or visit the Event School 2013 home page.
February 2013 - Biff Bash
February 2013 saw us host our annual client party at the London Irish Centre. This year, our theme was all about providing an authentic and relaxed Irish hospitality experience where our clients could feel at home and celebrate the year that was 2012.
The London Irish Centre, our dedicated Training Academy in Camden, provided the perfect venue with an outdoor theme and market stalls serving up a range of Irish cuisine, from DIY soda bread to Irish ales. We were also lucky enough to have a demonstration from the three times World Champion Ceilidh dancers who were truly amazing and Elegant Entertainment kindly provided a fabulous singing waiter act and fantastic classic Irish singer.
Well Dressed Tables, SLR and All Safe and Sound were all a massive help in bringing the look and feel together with haystacks, gingham cloths and great outdoor look lighting all at the fore.
With the opportunity to “pimp your own bun” (bake your own breads!), numerous live cooking stations, 20 different beers and ciders, a potato sculpting competition and two Irish police to ensure guests were not behaving themselves the occasion was simply a chance for managers and staff at all levels to have a bit of fun.
We were so grateful that so many clients joined us on the night giving us the chance to say thank you for 2012 to their teams at all levels be they managers or kitchen porters. We equally got an enormous buzz from all the kind words of thanks the next day and we look forward to delivering an equal (or hopefully better!) event to our client teams next January.
"The format of the evening was fun, refreshing, entertaining, humourous and the Irish grub was just like fine cuisine. I am not a beer enthusiast by any mean but I was taken aback by some of the ales on offer to complement the oysters, the blinis and other creations. As to the brown bread and Irish whiskey ice-cream, it was just worth the trip to Camden Square if only to get a chance to get a taste of this amazing concoction."
-A very kind email from one of our clients the following morning.
January 2013 - Events to the Future
On the 29th January Off to Work were delighted to support our friends Dish and Merlin for “Events to the Future” at Sea Life London Aquarium. The event was an opportunity for event buyers to see the fantastic facilities at this newly refurbished venue while the theme showed off retro chic married with the newest technology.
This technology showed the ability to extend the lifespan and reach of events through harnessing social media opportunities live at events. Equally it highlighted the opportunity to create interactive opportunities and audience co-creation of the event experience.
The catering complimented the retro chic feel of the occasion while showcasing different and innovative ways of providing stand up food to events.
Off to Work were delighted to work with all parties involved on the event to ensure a fabulous guest experience with exemplary and friendly customer service all provided with a smile and a slight tongue in cheek approach. Our team had great fun in the futuristic outfits provided for the occasion and we were proud to represent the brands involved. To see from this great occasion please do view the video below:
A Christmas Promotion at Westfield London
For Christmas this year we were delighted to work with Westfield in London in providing a fantastic team of experienced promotion staff.
Covering both Westfield Shepherd's Bush and Westfield Stratford, our team worked over a four day duration both inside and outside the centres, greeting guests with a welcoming smile and introducing them to the seasonal activities taking place on site. As well as engaging guests and helping to create a festive atmosphere, our team also introduced discounts and 
seasonal offers to visitors, whilst also conducting valuable data capture for our clients.
With such a large team across the different sites we had to utilise a range of resources to ensure a perfect outcome for our client, starting with assigning a dedicated manager purely to the execution of this event. With our network of senior team members assisting in the field, we were able to organise the logistics of supporting such a large team, including perfect presentation and a very specific uniform as well as adding in our own in-house hair and make-up support - adding the perfect amount of glamour to this very special event.
Whilst we were pleased to be supporting the campaign, we were also very happy to help spread the Christmas spirit with a particularly festive uniform! It was a wonderful event for our team to be a part of and we are delighted to be able to provide promotion staff services to our distinguished clients through Off to Work Platinum.
December 2012 - The Mistletoe Ball
December brought us many wonderful events but in particular we were very excited to be staffing partner for the annual Mistletoe Ball, held at the fabulous Tobacco Dock. The largest industry event of the year, the Mistletoe Ball brings together events industry professionals from across the country, including venues, support service providers, lighting designers, production companies, and many, many more.
Hosted by ISES, MPI & Site and supported by BVEP, over 350 guests came together to enjoy an evening of entertainment, networking, and of course truly outstanding catering. For the third year running The Recipe provided a stunning array ranging from tuna steak burger canapés to walnut and gorgonzola gnocchi.
Off to Work was delighted to provide a full team of service staff, ensuring a memorable experience for some very discerning guests - from the moment guests arrived to be greeted by our hosts with goodie bags, during the sumptuous dinner and wine service, to the smart farewell by our cloakroom team.
In addition to providing a great industry event, the Mistletoe Ball raised over £650 for charities Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and Meeting Industry, Meeting Needs (MIMN) through a charity raffle and Giving Tree.
We are delighed to have worked with ISES for many years and look forward to the next ISES event at ExCeL London on 17 January 2013.
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The Tobacco Dock team approached us to support their launch party on the 11th October 2012. This incredible space only 10 mins walk from Tower Bridge is now available for event hire with one of the largest rooms in London. Hundreds of guests arrived to be greeted by our team |
A wide range of caterers and suppliers provided an insight into the many opportunities on site and the Off to Work team ensured the smooth flow of the evening as guests enjoyed the showcase. Tobacco Dock can accommodate up to 3,500 guests in 50 individual spaces. |
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Off to Work delighted to receive High Commendation at Event Awards 2012
700 guests attended the prestigious evening held at the Roundhouse, Camden to celebrate the annual Event Awards. We were thrilled to make the finalists for Best Staffing and Secuirty Support and even happier to receive a Highly Commended on the night. Philip, Robert and the operations team enjoyed a gorgeous dinner provided by Zafferano caterers and the awards hosted by George Lamb.
Platinum feature at London Fashion Week
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Hundreds of fashionistas, bloggers and stylists arrived at the red carpet of the Millbank Media Centre in all their finery to be greeted by our Platinum staff before heading up to the top of the iconic Tower to start their SS13 celebrations with a bang at Skyloft. Attendees from world renowned fashion houses such as Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Diesel, Giorgio Armani and Vivienne Westwood came together to predict upcoming trends over apple and raspberry mojitos provided by innovative caterers Nomad. We styled the staff with ‘on trend’ braces and ribbon ties for the girls and tweed waistcoats and trainers for the boys. All the staff were handpicked for their striking appearance and meticulous service skills and all the team received make up and hair treatments designed by OTW’s artist Barbara B. “Everyone was very impressed with Platinum at our SS13 Party. Thank you!! " Fashion Monitor |
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Jamie Oliver and the Off to Work Chef Team wowed 20,000 guests for a sell out BIG FEASTIVAL
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"Good food, good music and good times for all the family" Jamie Oliver, Alex James and Brand Events joined forces to bring this fun packed 'feastival' to Oxfordshire. The Off to Work team were delighted to provide Jamie with full kitchen support and had a fantastic time working with the celebrity chef. |
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Event Awards 2012 - Celebrating the creative, exhibition and experiential sectors of the live events industry. |
The Event Awards are held annually and celebrate the leading event companies in the country.
Off to Work are so proud to be chosen by the judges as finalists in the category:
BEST STAFFING and SECURITY.
The winners will be announced at the awards dinner on the 5th October held at the Roundhouse in Camden.
A huge thank you to all our staff who have worked so hard throughout the year and enabled us to be chosen for this award nomination.
From 'Food is the New Fashion' to 'Cocktail Moments' with Jumbles St Pierre, the Off to Work Magazine is jam packed with interesting articles from the industry. |
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Off to Work staff shine at Hampton Court Flower Show
Managers Katie Pearce and Will McCann worked tirelessly with a fantastic team for the week's events at Hampton Court. From the Champagne and Seafood Restaurant situated next to the stunning fountains to the VIP Allium Bistro offering fine dining and spectacular views to visitors, the team worked together to provide over 200 covers for lunch each day.
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Philip Atkins- President of ISES UK
The UK Chapter of the International Special Events Society (ISES) has announced its new board to take the association forward from 1st July. Philip Atkins, Managing Director of Off to Work, has also been announced as incoming President.
Past President Zanine Adams will Chair the association’s Advisory Board, bringing together senior event industry representatives to mentor the Board and input in to development of the Chapter over the coming year.
Outgoing President, Jonathan Byrne who has led the association over the last 12 months reflects on his year, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my role as ISES President and hope that our members have benefited from a number of initiatives that have been close to my heart. These include building stronger strategic partnerships with other meeting and event industry associations; the growth of our regional events program and members; industry research and the continued delivery of our well respected ISESTALKS events.”
He continues, “I would also like to thank the previous Board for their continued enthusiasm and support and wish Philip and the new Board continued success in the on-going development of our Chapter.”
Commenting on his vision for the future of Philip adds, “I am grateful for the exceptional commitment of the past Boards and see it as my duty to carry on the good work.” He continues, “This includes the continued geographical diversification of ISES memberships and events and creating a greater feel of inclusiveness to all UK creative event professionals. In addition, I want to bring the best educational and unique experiences to our ISESTalks events, drawing on genuine professionals in their business discipline as well as allowing members and non-members to showcase their expertise.”
He concludes, “We will also use the opportunity that that Games will bring our industry this year to continue to spotlight the wealth of creativity and talent here in the UK, and share our experiences to benefit our peers nationally and internationally.”
ISES will present their past achievements and future plans at their AGM on the 9th July at The House of St Barnabas. You can register for this event by contacting Toni Griggs on 0207 462 2853 or email operationsmanager@isesuk.org.
Employers in Hospitality Awards 2012
The Off to Work Consultancy division was nominated in the category
Best Recruitment Consultancy Employer
Off to Work is also 6th place in the Best Employer in Hospitality Awards overall.
The awards were announed on the 18th June at The Lancaster Hotel London.
Caterer.com’s director Ian Burke commented: “The BEH 2012 England and Wales awards are designed to recognise employers – large and small – that invest in their people and make it core to their business. We welcome all hospitality businesses to enter the awards and we look forward to recognising these rising stars at our awards dinner on the 18th June”.
The Best of British- 14th May 2012
A one night only pop-up event in conjunction with Off to Work and National Chef of the Year 2011, Frederick Forster, that encapsulated the modern day look and feel of British cuisine through the development of the freshest flavours, finest produce and service Great Britain has to offer.
We were honoured to collaborate with Frederick and bring the same passion to the event production and front of house service that the National Chef winner brings to his culinary creations.
Frederick hand picked six of our chefs to work alongside him in the kitchen, so the pressure was on as we served 50 of the most influential industry leaders. From the 'Ten Bob' cocktail team to the bunting and cupcakes, the Best of British theme was carried throughout the night and as the guests rose to their feet applauding, we felt very lucky to be part of such a special night.
Thank you to all our sponsors at the event who helped to make it such a magical evening and a night to remember.
Westminster Kingsway College, Wild Harvest, All Safe and Sound, Chase Vodka, Chamberlains of London, Churchill China, Fever Tree Mixers, Meantime Brewery, Lola's Cupcakes, Joe and Seph's Gourmet Popcorn.
Check out more photos on Caterer and Hotel Keeper ......HERE
Executive Chef Matthew Marshall, from Chamberlains London hosts the Fish Market Tour at Dawn
Just one of many courses available at Event School 2012
'The FUTURE of Food' panel discussion at Event School 2012
Leading experts from the industry answered questions from the audience and shared knowledge and experience with delegates at the London Irish Centre.
Monday 16th April 2012 London Irish Centre 17:00
Topics highlighted on the night :
- How can event caterers transfer a fine dining experience to their menus?
- Where is British gastronomy going and potential challenges in the future?
- How has the focus of media on hospitality affected the dining industry?
- How does the industry capture and nurture talented individuals?
Panel included:
Frederick Forster, National Chef of the Year 2011
David Stringer, Commercial Director of Nomad Food and Design
Joel Lawrence, Food and Beverage Manager Ten Manchester Street, Marylebone
Robert Milligan, Company Chef, Harbour and Jones
Thank you to everyone who attended and huge thanks to our super panelists on the night.
The Event School 16th -17th April 2011
An Off to Work Training Experience
London Irish Centre, 50-52 Camden Square, London
Each year Off to Work Training brings together a range of relevant hospitality courses with a host of fun workshops with industry leaders. This year we are proud to present the two day extravaganza at the new home for the Training Academy, The London Irish Centre.
Featuring:
National Chef of the Year 2011, Frederick Forster takes to the stage to bring a live cooking demonstration to the LIC, looking at seasonal treats for the summer event season.
Straight from the Mandarin Oriental, Heather McKnight will present 'The History of British Gastronomy.
Joel Lawrence, famous for creating London's most expensive cocktail joins us for a cocktail masterclass direct from Ten Manchester Street Hotel, Marylebone.
For further details please contact Charlene Musgrave at Off to Work Training
T: 0207 386 4497 E: training@offtowork.co.uk
ISES to host their first event in Birmingham
The International Special Events Society is set to hold its first event in Birmingham.
The networking event, being held on 13th March, will show off excellence in Birmingham’s hospitality, both in terms of catering and staffing.
Off to Work and Payal Catering are working in partnership to host the event and are hoping to facilitate an exceptional networking business development opportunity for the Birmingham events market.
The event will take place at IET: Austin Court, from 6.30pm. Make sure that you reserve your place in advance by contacting Off to Work at katie@offtowork.co.uk
Square Mile Salute 2012
Following the success of Square Mile Salute last year, Off to Work joined the team once again alongside 16 of London's best chefs including Raymond Blanc and Mark Flanagan MVO. This unique culinary event, organised in conjunction with Chamberlains Events, brought the finest chefs in the world together to raise money for Help for Heroes, The Royal British Legion, ABF The Soldiers Charity and The Household Cavalry Operational Casualites Fund.
Alastair Bain, Nikki Edgar, Eleanor Barnes, Dennis Maulbetsch and Neil Preston managed the event with a handpicked team of set up staff, event porters, wine waiters, waiting staff and back of house managers to ensure this prestigious charity night was a huge success for the second year running.
THE BANQUET
Hosted by Brian Turner CBE
• Raymond Blanc OBE, Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons
• Claire Clark MBE, Patissier and Chocolatier
• Philip Corrick, The Royal Automobile Club
• William Curley, William Curley Chocolates
• Allan Donald, The Eden Club at Pittormie Castle
• Mark Flanagan MVO, The Royal Chef
• Laurent Smeulders, Fairmont Monte Carlo
• Christian Garcia, Chef to HSH Prince Albert II
• Matthew Marshall, Chamberlain's
• Bernhard Mayer, The Savoy
• Martyn Nail, Claridge's
• Andrew Turner, Wiltons
• John Williams MBE, The Ritz London
Funds raised will be reinvested on the recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration of soldiers and of the families of those killed or injured on operations. This includes the building and running of Personnel Recovery Centres and provision of training and educational programmes.
For further details on this fantastic event check out the website
Off to Work Sponsors the Event Awards |
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Off to Work were delighted to be part of the Event Awards 2011. A night when all the top event companies in the UK come together to celebrate the very best the industry has to offer. |
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It was a fantastic opportunity to support high end caterers Zafferano on the night with a full team of waiting staff, wine waiters, set up crew, bartenders and cloakroom staff. |
| Thank you to all the staff who did a fantastic job throughout and also to award winning caterers, Zafferano for delivering such delicious food. |
| As sponsors of the 'Caterer of the Year' category, Director of Operations, Robert Persson presented Rhubarb Food Design on stage, with the coveted Event Award under the watchful eye of compere and comedian Jason Byrne. |
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For further details on the event please check out www.eventmagazine.co.uk where you will find the full list of winners and more fabulous photos. |
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Concept Conference Centre partners with Off to Work Birmingham
As part of Concept's drive to see more blind or partially sighted people in the hospitality industry they have now formed a partnership with Off to Work.
Off to Work will provide training and sessional staff to Concept so that trainees and staff can gain restaurant service skills.
On the 23rd September Concept's conference venue turned into a 65 seater restaurant catering to senior managers within the Royal National Institute of Blind People and Off to Work were out in force.
The pop-up style 'secret' restaurant has become very popular since it's launch in June this year.
