Summer Corporate Events- That Don’t Feel Like Work

Summer is upon us here in Nashville! The days are longer, the city feels more alive, and we all want to catch a break from the office to something a bit more fun.

So why should your summer corporate event feel like anything less?

At The Bedford, we've seen how the right space and a little imagination can turn a typical work event into something people actually look forward to. And let's be honest- no one gets excited about a windowless room and another stack of agendas and to-do lists. What people really want is to feel like they’ve been transported somewhere new and relaxing, even if it's just for a few hours. Somewhere inspiring, warm, creative. Somewhere that doesn’t feel like what they do every single day.

The beauty of hosting your corporate event in a space like The Bedford is that it naturally lends itself to transformation. With its grand, historic architecture, exposed brick, high ceilings, and soft natural light, it’s the kind of venue that already feels like a step outside the ordinary. That foundation makes it easy to build something memorable.. something that feels more like a true getaway than just another day in the office.

Over the years, we've hosted corporate events that encompass any kind of theme you can imagine. And it can only go up from there! Imagine walking into The Bedford expecting to work- but instead it’s filled with lush greenery, bright florals, and the scent of fresh citrus in the air- instantly transporting you somewhere tropical. Maybe there’s a signature rum punch waiting at the bar, and music that instantly puts everyone in vacation mode. That’s the kind of setting where conversations flow, the work mindset relaxes, and team bonds feel more natural.

Or maybe your vision leans more rustic and refined—a nod to Nashville whiskey, with curated tasting stations, wooden farm tables, and candlelight. It’s relaxed, refined, and a little unexpected, especially for a corporate function. Guests aren’t just networking—they’re experiencing something. And that’s what sticks with them long after the event ends.

Or, get casual and fun with a backyard BBQ-style gathering featuring live acoustic music, bourbon tastings, or even a mini music festival setup with food trucks. The point is: when you give people something that feels authentic and immersive, it doesn’t just improve morale- it changes the way your team shows up in the future.

Planning a corporate event doesn’t mean you have to reinvent the wheel. It just means shifting the focus from formality to experience. And with a venue like The Bedford, the opportunity to create something special is always within reach.

So if you’re looking to host a summer event that leaves behind the conference room energy and brings your team into something fresh, creative, and distinctly Nashville, The Bedford might just be your perfect starting point. Let’s turn your corporate gathering into something that feels more like a retreat—no plane ticket required.