Events: customized from concept to execution

With twenty rooms, four foyers, and a total of 2,700 m², we have everything to host both large-scale and intimate events. “Our guiding principle is always the Japanese concept of Omotenashi, which embodies hospitality based on a genuine interest in others, without expecting anything in return. Okura is a symbol of quality, but we do not put ourselves in the foreground during events. The guest is central.”

With all conference facilities on the same floor, every event is organized clearly and securely. Private entrances, elevators, and direct access to the parking garage – with EV charging points – create a self-contained facility. “And for lengthy events, guests can of course stay in the hotel,” says Michiel. “Thanks to our tailor-made approach, almost all guests rate us with a 9 or higher.”

This customization is first and foremost part of the personal guidance of our professional planners, from introduction to implementation. Even at large events, almost all details can be adjusted to your wishes. ‘There is no program A or B, no lunch A or B, everything is possible. Each room is built in such a way that it can be arranged in all kinds of ways, and we have an in-house partner for the audiovisual facilities, who personally pays a visit to determine the optimal setup of the technology.’

Customization is also reflected in the composition of the menu since all of Okura’s gastronomic qualities are, of course, available to the conference guests. Hotel Okura Amsterdam is known for its high culinary standards, with Michelin recognition in all four of its restaurants. Executive Chef Michel Westerman, of the main kitchen, continuously provides high-level quality with his team for all conference guests. In collaboration with one of Hotel Okura Amsterdam’s highly skilled sommeliers, the most remarkable lunches and dinners for large groups are created. ‘If we have selected a very special wine at the guest’s request, we sometimes invite the sommelier to dinner. When he explains how he selected his choice together with the Chef, it completes the experience and makes the wine even tastier.’

To provide optimal service, we must not only take care of our guests but also of our employees. “They have daily contact with guests and know what they need,” says Michiel. Whether it is welcoming additional guests, moving lunch to the sunny terrace, or other last-minute changes, the flexible team is always ready to meet the needs of the guest. ‘Our employees are therefore given the freedom and responsibility to make improvements themselves.’ To keep all that knowledge in-house, Hotel Okura Amsterdam recognizes the importance of being a good employer. We keep our loyal, proud, and hardworking colleagues on board with good employment conditions and development opportunities.

Ten slotte weten we dat bij het kiezen van een eventlocatie ook duurzaamheid een steeds belangrijker aspect wordt. Als eigenaar van ons gebouw zijn we daar sinds de opening in 1971 al mee bezig. Sinds tien Lastly, we know that sustainability is also becoming an increasingly important aspect when choosing an event location. As the owner of our building, we have been working on this since our opening in 1971. We have been certified by Green Globe for ten years, which requires, among other things, annual improvements. In recent years, for example, Hotel Okura Amsterdam has installed its cold-heat storage and many solar panels. ‘We also prevent food waste, for example by not putting everything in the room at once at a buffet. We establish a foundation and supplement it in small steps if necessary. In this way, we continuously implement improvements in the environmental, social, and economic areas, and together we strive for sustainable business operations in the hotel industry,” concludes Michiel.

Choose Hotel Okura Amsterdam for your next event. Our professional planners and culinary experts are ready to assist you.