How do you use online tools and reviews to research and compare venues for your events?

Before you do that you need to define the meetings objective and what success looks like. Your venue merely facilitates what outcome you are looking to accomplish. Build you agenda before you select a venue as well to ensure you have the right spaces.

I think it depends on what kind of event space you are looking for. Most of the aforementioned tools don't have what you need to know when planning a meeting or corporate event.

This doesn't exist for the most part. The industry is ripe for disruption in this category. You have to reply on your network to get reviews of properties.

Research, research, research; and then verify. If it looks to good to be true, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to visit the space in person and get a good look around ahead of time.

In my experience, the initial contact is a clear window into the service you will receive. It is more important than the visit because the contact is your lifeline up until the event. If you get a recording with no call backs, they miss the zoom call set up on line, or you are referred to several people, this is a red flag. As well, if you do get the right person, but there is no followup, this is another red flag. Good service begins at the beginning and the initial connection is step #1. Once you've streamlined your initial contacts, and verified pertinent information, size down your list even more based on which contacts and companies fit your personal style and vibe. If selection and time allow, choose three venues to visit.

In my experience I always suggest visiting the venue in person. Do not rely solely on the pictures presented virtually. I stick with venues that I have attended other events at. One trick of the trade I use is sometimes I will wear my street clothes to gauge how the venue staff treats me at first sight. If they dismiss me easily because of the way I look, then I move on. Just like in Pretty Woman when Vivian goes clothes shopping. Body language & first appearances is what I read the most.

Be aware of the venue rules, such as hours and closing process. Be aware of the decor restrictions for the space. When can decorations be installed and when must they be removed. Have knowledge of whats needed for setups, such as power or data. Create a spreadsheet that easily shows pros/cons and differences of each venue. What safety measures are in place. What is this venue typically used for. Can it meet the needs for the event with seating and parking. Is there enough room for what the event needs are. Is the audio and visual what is needed for the event.

Always always always walk the venue in person. I agree about going to the property without them knowing so you can get a genuine experience and know if there are areas of concern. I'll usually arrive the day before the site visit to do this.