The suite life: mixing business with pleasure in the sky box.

• Author: Berndt, Josh
• Position: Executive Living

Luxury suites combine the thrill and excitement of a big sporting or concert events with lavish amenities like great food, comfortable seating and privacy. Many local execs spend a great deal of money to maintain a suite for important client meetings, employee appreciation nights or other special occasions. But is it worth the investment?

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Used with the proper etiquette and with specific goals in mind, the corporate suite can be a valuable asset, say many business leaders. You aren't likely to get a contract signed during a Jazz game, but you may be able to cement a great working relationship with a new client.

"The value of the suite is something you cannot necessarily put a price on," says Peggy Larsen, vice president of marketing for Worker's Compensation Fund (WCF), who manages suites with the Jazz, Salt Lake Bees and Real Salt Lake. "It is a venue that would not otherwise be available to get outside of the work environment and spend valuable time with customers, business associates and prospective customers."

Matt Brown of KUTV 2 maintains suites for the Utah Grizzlies hockey team and the Bees as well, and shares a similar sentiment. "If it makes sense for your company and you can afford it, there are many benefits that don't show up neatly on a ledger sheet."

Orem-based Marketecture took a slightly different approach with one of its corporate suite nights by purchasing a one-game box during a San Francisco Giants baseball game. "We were in San Francisco for a significant trade show," says Ari Monkarsh, cofounder of Marketecture, who has also used business suites during Jazz games. "Our experience is that a box at a sporting event is best used to start business relationships. In order to get your money's worth, you should invite multiple people to a single event. Being in the box allows you more time to chat with each person and explore potential business opportunities."

In addition to the potential business value, suites can provide an excellent opportunity for companies to incentivize employees or give back to the community. WCF donates its suite to nonprofit organizations for fundraising events several times each year.

Striking the Right Balance

If you decide a corporate suite is a wise choice for your company, there are a few things you should consider: What is the proper etiquette to follow at a game? Are you still a fan surrounded by your guests? Can you bring your kids? Are the rules different than when...