In an ever-changing world of work, where telecommuting, flexible working hours and the quest for well-being are redefining the codes of professional life, corporate events are taking on new importance. Gone are the days of frozen meetings in soulless meeting rooms: today, companies are increasingly focusing on convivial happy hours, team-building activities or celebratory evenings organized outside the office walls. And with good reason: these informal moments strengthen team cohesion, nurture a sense of belonging and enable employees to get together in a more human, more relaxed… and more inspiring setting.
In this article, we take an in-depth look at the concrete benefits of such initiatives, before presenting the many features available at Espaces Waverly, in the heart of Montreal’s Mile-Ex – a venue designed to host your finest team events.
I. Why organize out-of-office events?
1. Out of the box for better connections
When you step outside the usual office environment, the dynamics change. Exchanges become more natural, hierarchical barriers disappear, and discussions become more authentic. A simple 5 à 7 can thus become a powerful lever for strengthening bonds between colleagues, fostering inter-team collaboration and even resolving latent tensions.
These moments also enable those who interact little on a daily basis to get to know each other better, which can stimulate long-term collaboration. In a hybrid or partially telecommuting company, these out-of-office get-togethers are also essential to maintaining a strong corporate culture.
2. Improving well-being and recognition
Giving employees a well-deserved break in a pleasant environment is a concrete way of showing that they are appreciated. These events reinforce the feeling of recognition and contribute to general well-being at work. This can have a direct impact on motivation, commitment and even talent retention.
An employee who feels valued, listened to, and who has the opportunity to have positive experiences with colleagues is more likely to remain loyal to his or her company.
3. Encourage creativity and team dynamics
A change of scenery, especially in an inspiring, well-appointed venue, is often conducive to creativity. A 5 à 7 on a rooftop bathed in light, or a group activity on a multisport pitch, allows everyone to express themselves differently, to step out of their usual roles and reveal themselves in a different light.
In short: it’s by getting out of the everyday that we create the collective.
II. 5 à 7: a simple, effective and popular format
Parmi les formats d’événements d’entreprise, les 5 à 7 sont particulièrement populaires — et pour de bonnes raisons.
1. Accessible and easy to use
Organizing a 5 à 7 doesn’t have to take up an entire day. It’s a short, focused event that fits easily into even the busiest schedules. It’s also a less formal format, allowing everyone to participate without pressure.
2. Perfect for celebrating or marking a milestone
A team success, the arrival of a new colleague, the departure of another, a project milestone reached: any reason is good to get together for a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.
3. Enhancing corporate culture
Regularly proposed, these events help to create a positive working climate, nurture team spirit and reinforce corporate culture. They become eagerly-awaited gatherings that contribute to our collective life.
III. Espaces Waverly: the ideal venue for your team events
If you’re keen to organize an out-of-office event, you need to find the right venue. And that’s precisely where Espaces Waverly stands out.
Located in the vibrant Mile-Ex district, Espaces Waverly is much more than a coworking space: it’s a professional living space designed to foster meetings, creativity and well-being. Its event spaces are designed to welcome teams of all sizes in a setting that’s both professional and welcoming.
1. A roof terrace with a view
The jewel in Espaces Waverly’s crown is its rooftop terrace. Spacious and meticulously furnished, it offers a breathtaking view of the city and the perfect space for a summer happy hour, cocktail reception or end-of-project aperitif.
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Capacity: up to 120 people
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Equipment: sound system, high-end furniture, mood lighting
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Options: catering service, mobile bar, BBQ, entertainment on request
Imagine your team gathered at sunset, with a drink in hand, in a relaxed atmosphere with the city as a backdrop…
2. A convivial café-lounge
For indoor events or cooler seasons, the café-lounge is an excellent alternative. Modular, bright and warm, it’s just as suitable for a cocktail party as it is for a game night, a conference followed by a drink or an in-house launch.
3. A multi-sports field and ice rink
Yes, you read that right. On the roof, Espaces Waverly also has a multi-sports field in summer (soccer, volleyball, basketball) that becomes an ice rink in winter. Perfect for a dynamic team-building activity, a tournament between colleagues or a fun activity before happy hour.
4. A fully equipped meeting room
Want to combine work and relaxation? The conference room can accommodate your meetings or workshops at the start of the day, before switching to social mode on the terrace or in the café.
IV. Simple, flexible, customizable packages
At Espaces Waverly, our team will help you organize your event from A to Z. You can choose :
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An hourly rate for a one-off 5 à 7
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Half-day or full-day packages, including meeting + activity + cocktail reception
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Additional services: catering, bar, DJ, entertainment, furniture, logistics, reception
Everything is designed to simplify your life, with a turnkey approach. You bring your team, Espaces Waverly takes care of the rest.
V. What your employees will gain
1. A real break from everyday life
Organizing an event outside the company allows you to really disconnect from the office. This change of context makes the experience more memorable, more enjoyable, and therefore more effective.
2. A rewarding moment of relaxation
These events are perceived as gestures of recognition. They recognize the efforts made, and reinforce motivation and team loyalty.
3. A stronger human link
The bonds created or strengthened during these moments last well beyond the event itself. Better communication, a more relaxed atmosphere and smoother collaboration are often the most lasting indirect effects.
VI. Company testimonials
“Our 5 à 7 on the rooftop of Espaces Waverly was a great success. It’s rare to find a venue that’s both professional and friendly. The whole team is still talking about it!” – Sophie, HR for a tech company
“Between our morning meeting in their boardroom, the afternoon rooftop volleyball tournament, and the cocktail party at the end of the day, it was a perfect day. And we didn’t have to manage anything ourselves.” – Maxime, Agency Manager
VII. Conclusion: create memories with your team
Companies that invest in quality time with their employees reap more than just a pleasant evening: they build teams that are close-knit, motivated and proud to be part of the adventure.
Espaces Waverly offers you all the tools you need to organize these precious moments. Whether it’s for a 5 à 7, a team building activity, a team meeting or an end-of-year celebration, you’ll find a space to match your ambitions – in a setting that’s inspiring, professional and warm.