An Interview about Chelmsford Essex Events with Lorraine Thorne, Hylands House Manager
The events industry has faced considerable challenges in recent years, navigating the impact of the pandemic and escalating operational expenses. In 2025 they have a new set of demands. Hylands Estate is a council-operated venue. They have implemented strategic adjustments to maintain their competitive edge while prioritising sustainability and innovation.
We spoke to Lorraine Thorne, Hylands House Manager, to tell us more about how Hylands ensures it is a competitive venue and can offer something different to clients.
Adapting to Rising Costs and Sustainability Goals
In response to rising energy and supply costs, we have adopted a proactive approach to budget management, ensuring our events remain accessible. We actively monitor our pricing structures, benchmarking against comparable venues. To mitigate overheads, we have focused on enhancing energy efficiency, transitioning all lighting to LED and implementing a new event management system that has significantly reduced printing expenditures.
I am pleased to report that our commitment to sustainability has been recognised with a Gold Award for Green Meetings and Tourism. We continue to explore further efficiencies, upholding our responsibility as a council-run entity to be both environmentally and fiscally prudent.
Building Visibility in the Corporate Market
Enhancing our visibility within the corporate market has been a key initiative. We have expanded our online presence through targeted social media campaigns and electronic newsletters, measuring campaign effectiveness through click-through rates. We have also cultivated strategic partnerships with local suppliers, such as Spotlight Sound, which now manages our audio-visual requirements. These collaborations have enhanced our service offerings, attracting increased corporate clientele.
Partnerships with organisations like Go Ape have positioned Hylands Estate as a desirable location for corporate team-building events, particularly relevant in an era of remote working. Membership in the Essex Chamber of Commerce facilitates networking opportunities, while new open estate offerings, such as the Essex Foodies Market, introduce the venue to new audiences.
What Sets Hylands Estate Apart?
Hylands Estate distinguishes itself through its rich historical significance. Constructed in 1730, the house, which will soon mark its 300th anniversary, has been meticulously restored and maintained. We host approximately 120 weddings annually, including numerous large multicultural celebrations.
My team and I have invested time in understanding varied cultural ceremonies, making us a preferred venue for diverse wedding clients. Our large-capacity pavilion, licensed for weddings and events, is a significant asset. Weddings represent a substantial component of our event portfolio, with bookings extending into 2027.
Diversifying Chelmsford Essex Events to Meet Changing Demands
We are committed to diversifying our event offerings to meet evolving market trends. “Holistic Hylands,” our new health and wellness festival, exemplifies this approach, having achieved a complete sell-out. The event features yoga and Pilates sessions, health-focused presentations, nutritious culinary options, and sound baths, aligning with the growing demand for wellness experiences. Additionally, we are welcoming”Country Calling,” a country music festival in the park later this year, incorporating a line dancing bar, capitalising on the increasing popularity of country music within the UK.
Leveraging Funding for Growth
As a council-owned venue, we actively pursue funding opportunities through government initiatives and the Heritage Lottery Fund to support our operational costs and development. We benefited from Heritage Lottery Funding for restoration in the 1990s and secured a COVID-19 recovery grant in 2020, enabling the development of virtual tours, which remain valuable tools for international clients. A recent grant supports grassroots music, facilitating live performances during estate open days and showcasing local talent.
Looking Ahead to 2025 Chelmsford Essex Events
We are focused on balancing historical preservation with contemporary innovation. We recognise the necessity of strategic budgeting, marketing, and event planning to navigate rising costs and evolving industry demands.
Hylands House is well-positioned for continued success through our commitment to sustainability, strategic partnerships, and event diversification. Council-run venues like ours play a vital role in providing accessible, high-quality event spaces, and I am dedicated to ensuring Hylands Estate continues to evolve and thrive.”