PEM is a leading independent firm of accountants, tax and business advisers based in Cambridge. Each year the firm holds a Christmas party at one of the Colleges, including at Murray Edwards in previous years.
With parties on hold because of the pandemic, it was decided to organise a ‘Delayed Christmas Party’ in April on the theme of “The Great Gatsby” to bring everyone together.
Party format
A pre-dinner drinks reception would start the evening, followed by a three-course meal, with entertainment provided by magicians and professional dancers performing between courses. After dinner there was to be a band and dancing, with a photobooth for capturing the occasion.
Gemma Wombwell, Manager at PEM said: “Location and choice of venue is very important to us, as one of the main criteria is having a space large enough to hold all the elements of the evening in one room.
Brilliant space
“At Murray Edwards, the Dome is brilliant for this and the venue is also close to the centre of town so it’s easy for people to get to. We also need somewhere large enough to take everyone – this time 115 people attended.
“At the planning stage, Louise and Freya from the Events team at Murray Edwards were very open to listening to our requirements, taking into account all the different entertainment options and ensuring they catered for everything.
Huge benefit
“Everything went really well. The front of house staff on the night itself were very accommodating and it was great to be allowed access early on so we could set up and ensure everything was organised to run smoothly once the guests arrived.
“The Dome really is a winner for our type of event, enabling us to get everything in one room was a huge benefit and the food was really delicious too!”
Date of event: 1 April 2022
Facilities used: The Dome Dining Hall for the main event, arrival drinks in the Long Room, various rooms for storage of props, flowers and decorations, green rooms for performers.
Performers: Band – The Blue Rinse
