An Interview with Carlie Buckley, Senior Events Manager at Osea Island.
The UK’s events industry plays a vital role in the economy, contributing around £62 billion annually. Yet, the sector has been under immense pressure, first from the covid pandemic and now from the ongoing cost of living crisis. Businesses are reevaluating their event strategies, and this shift has created new trends and challenges for event professionals. As part of our commitment at Spotlight Sound to raise awareness of the industry to elevate and drive positive change, we interviewed Carlie Buckley, Senior Events Manager at Osea Island. A unique venue known for its exclusivity and immersive event experiences. Carlie talks through the evolving corporate event landscape, the rising importance of sustainability, and the challenges of managing a remote, historic venue.
Priorities have shifted in terms of corporate events.
We have noticed the scaling back of corporate event budgets. Previously, large firms would bring entire teams to offsite events. Now, companies focus on smaller, high-impact gatherings, often limited to leadership teams. Budget is everything now. Despite tighter budgets, demand for corporate retreats is increasing, with companies prioritising meaningful, experience-driven gatherings. Rather than extravagant events, the focus is on high-value experiences that are engaging and where people can connect.
Sustainability and immersion
Osea Island is a really unique venue, it is secluded and very picturesque and it offers an alternative to traditional conference centres. It’s historical charm and immersive nature make it ideal for companies who want an event or retreat far away from the office. Clients are shifting away from the norm when it comes to their event design and opting instead for activities that highlight the island’s character and natural surroundings.
Things like foraging, treasure hunts that explore the island, or history talks. It’s exciting to create events that highlight what makes Osea unique. Tech-driven experiences are also growing in popularity. One standout offering is the GPS-based treasure hunt by Wild Goose, where teams use an app to navigate the island, completing challenges along the way. This blend of technology and outdoor adventure aligns with the increasing preference for interactive and experiential events.
Sustainability is no longer an afterthought in event planning.
Sustainability is now a top priority. Osea Island is deeply committed to sustainable practices, from local supplier partnerships to plastic-free catering. We feel that the island’s dedication to green initiatives is particularly attractive to those brands with strong environmental commitments. Last spring Red Bull actually incorporated a sustainability project into their recent event here. However, running a sustainable event venue on an island comes with challenges. Waste management is a significant issue, as recycling trucks won’t come onto the island, requiring costly private collection and sorting. Additionally, many of Osea’s event spaces are housed in historic buildings, presenting energy efficiency challenges. Despite these challenges, Osea continues to refine its approach, ensuring that sustainability remains at the heart of its operations.
Balancing Exclusivity with Visibility
Marketing a venue like Osea Island presents a unique paradox because it thrives on exclusivity. The island is intentionally marketed as a “best-kept secret,” relying on word-of-mouth and select media features rather than aggressive advertising. Our owner is keen to keep the island as a secret. We balance marketing just enough to keep our pipeline strong while maintaining an air of mystery. Many of our events are themed around the idea of discovering a hidden location. This strategy has proven successful, with many visitors arriving on the island having had no prior awareness of its existence. The element of surprise and exclusivity adds to the allure, making Osea a sought-after destination for high-end corporate retreats and immersive events.
The Power of Immersive Events
The island’s remoteness and flexibility means it’s great for immersive, one-of-a-kind events. Whether it’s a White Lotus-style weekend which we had recently with a murder mystery element or a 24-hour manhunt for YouTube phenomenon Sidemen, Osea enables brands and companies to create unforgettable experiences that wouldn’t be possible in a conventional venue. A lot of feedback we get is about those little moments. It’s not just a conference where you go home. Staying on the island means walking back to the village, lit by festoon lighting with someone you’ve barely spoken to before or having a quiet moment on the grass between sessions, it’s these moments that really build connections.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Corporate Events
The shift towards smaller, high-quality experiences, sustainability-driven events, and immersive venues is shaping the future of the corporate events industry. While budget constraints do remain a challenge, businesses are investing in more thoughtful, engaging, and location-specific events which we love here at Osea. As the UK events industry continues to evolve, venues like Osea will be the key to success. They offer an environment very far removed from the office. The challenge now is finding the balance between exclusivity, sustainability, and financial viability—something that the industry as a whole will need to navigate in the years to come.