5 Corporate Event Ideas for Small Teams (That Actually Work)

Why small team events matter

When you run a small business or work in a tight-knit team, every hour away from the desk counts. You want to bring people together, build culture, and spark ideas – but without the big budgets or red tape that come with large corporate events. That’s exactly where venues like Lux Foundry make a difference.

Lux isn’t your standard function venue. It’s a heritage warehouse café in Brunswick that can flip seamlessly from brunch service to a team workshop or private dinner. Owner Dan Amato puts it simply: “We’re one of the few places that can handle a group of 10, 20, even 40 people quickly and properly. You don’t need to hire a ballroom to do something special.”

Here are five simple, proven ideas to help your team connect, create, and celebrate – without the stress or corporate fuss.

1. The Creative Workshop with Coffee in Hand

Nothing unlocks ideas like a change of scene. Lux’s light-filled warehouse and high ceilings make it the perfect space to hold a half-day creative workshop or planning session. Bring your laptops, plug into the Wi-Fi, and settle in around the long tables before breaking for lunch in the courtyard.

You get the energy of a café without the noise of a public space – ideal for teams looking to brainstorm new campaigns, run design sprints, or set goals for the quarter.

Pro tip: Book midweek to enjoy reduced minimum spends and quieter periods. You’ll get the space and service without the weekend crowds.

2. The Brunch Strategy Session

Who said meetings need to be dry? Replace the boardroom with a round of flat whites and poached eggs. Lux’s full café menu is available for all bookings – no set or express menus here. As Dan says, “Express lunch seems a bit tacky. We don’t do that. The whole menu is available – and we’re super efficient.”

That flexibility means your team can order what they love – from crafted brunch plates to vegan and gluten-free options – while still keeping to your one-hour window.

Take a look at the seasonal menu and start planning your next morning strategy session.

3. The Courtyard Brainstorm

When the weather’s good, there’s no better spot in Brunswick than Lux’s leafy courtyard. It’s private enough for focus but open enough to feel relaxed – perfect for brainstorming sessions, planning days, or those moments when a whiteboard just needs fresh air.

With room for groups of 10-40, the courtyard can be booked as a semi-private area. The team will bring coffee, food, or even a round of cocktails if the day calls for it.

Why it works: The best ideas often come when you step away from the usual routine. Sunlight, good food, and a casual atmosphere help everyone open up.

4. The Long Lunch That Turns into Team Bonding

Every workplace needs those moments where work takes a back seat. A Friday long lunch at Lux gives small teams a way to celebrate milestones, welcome new hires, or just say thanks. The warehouse interior feels lively but not loud, and the staff can pace service to match your group.

Lux specialises in getting large groups served quickly without rushing them out the door. “If time’s a factor, we make it work,” says Dan. “We can get a big table in and out in an hour, or let a Friday lunch roll on all afternoon.”

Explore the options on the corporate functions page and see how flexible your next long lunch can be.

5. The Evening Celebration That Feels Local

Not every team event needs to happen during office hours. Lux’s industrial warehouse transforms beautifully at night for small celebrations – from EOFY parties to product launches. The space comes alive under warm lighting, with bar service and full food menus available.

You don’t need a huge guest list to make it worthwhile. For groups of 10-40, the minimum spend is approachable, and you’ll get that “private event” feel without hiring a full venue.

Bonus: It’s all fully licensed, so your team can toast to the night with local wine, craft beer, or cocktails.

Why small teams thrive at Lux Foundry

What makes small team events work at Lux is the combination of personality and practicality. The venue’s industrial-chic aesthetic feels special but never pretentious. The food and service carry the energy of a Brunswick café, while the organisation and timing are sharp enough for corporate needs.

It’s this balance – space, speed, and service – that sets Lux apart. As Dan explains, “When you factor in really good food, really good space, and then speed, they’re the three things we offer that not many other places do.”

Plan your next team event in Brunswick

From quick brunches to after-hours celebrations, Lux Foundry makes it easy for small teams to connect without overcomplicating things. Flexible spaces, crafted menus, and genuine hospitality mean you can focus on your people – not the logistics.

Start planning your next team event today via our corporate functions page or explore all functions and events at Lux Foundry.