Another week, another website launch, this week for a banqueting venue in Berkshire.
The Olympia Ballroom at Shehnai is the largest banqueting suite anywhere in Berkshire, catering for all manner of events, from spectacular conferences through to elegant weddings, quirky exhibitions and even comedy nights.
The Shehnai Group asked Toward to develop a new website. The old site was dated, didn't showcase the beautiful venue in the best light, offered little advanced functionality and didn't represent them as a company.
Left: Old website was outdated and unprofessional. Right: New website is sleek, classy and tasteful
We started the project by spending time with the client at the venue, absorbing the atmosphere and getting a good understanding of the business. As part of the research phase we looked at the business requirements and how a new website could both promote and help Shehnai run the business. The team needed a better way to manage enquiries, bookings, clients and events so we advised a bespoke management system as part of the project.
Once the project and scope were agreed, we started work on the visual side. Using the existing gold logo as a basis, we created a design that was stylish and contemporary. The dark colour scheme reflects the opulent and luxurious look of the venue, whilst working as a backdrop to highlight the custom photography the client had commissioned.
During the design stage, we decided that we wanted to create a different theme for the wedding section using ivory, cream and gold to give a lighter more appropriate feel.
For the main site we used Wordpress as a CMS to control the main pages, slideshows, blog and events. The custom built booking system allows the team to add clients and bookings, track payments and suppliers, and have a much better overview of the business. It also allows clients access to their individual bookings to check the status and details.
We're really pleased with the result and even more pleased to have another satisfied client. Visit the new site at www.shehnaigroup.co.uk and let us know what you think in the comments!
