A SWINDON events company came up with a useful way for people to stage live ceremonies without needing a big gathering.

The virtual studio made by Corporate Events in Hillmead launched in March to provide its clients with a lockdown-safe and customisable way for businesses to host major conferences online.

It has proven to be a popular solution to a problem facing firms who had to scrap plans to put on big events in person this year due to safety concerns or wanted to directly connect with their customers who are now stuck at home shielding or in lockdown.

Managing director Andy Ashley said: “Virtual events are not new to us, we have always provided this service for clients, but due to Covid-19, our industry has had to adapt in ways we never thought.

“When designing the space, we knew safety, flexibility and cost were key, as well as the option to customise elements such as lighting, furniture and AV.

“For example, we can host a formal awards ceremony or a more relaxed presentation with more comfortable seating such as sofas and coffee tables for more informal Q&A or panel sessions.”

Though conferences were originally due to be allowed again from the start of the month, and pilot schemes for events involving crowds were due to be tested, the prime minister postponed the date to at least August 15.

Mr Ashley added: “There is still much apprehension around live events as we are hearing from our clients. For now, we must continue to be adaptable, support our clients and overall hope that the government gets behind the UK’s £70bn events industry.”

For almost 25 years, Corporate Events has focused on providing event production and live events facilities, as well as creative designs for the events themselves.

Head of events Laura O’Bree said, “We all know that more than ever, event strategies need to be more flexible than face-to-face and more engaging than live streaming alone.

“That’s why we’ve created a secure and immersive space for clients alongside our creative design studio to provide the all-important creative content that’s vital for any online event.”