Have You Been Tasked with Planning Your Company’s Golf Event? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve been asked to plan a company golf outing, this guide covers everything you need to know - from choosing the right format to using software that makes it all easier.

May 2, 2025
4 min read

Corporate golf outings are a great way to build relationships, reward employees, and impress clients- but if this is your first time planning one, it can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from golf formats to scheduling, so your event runs smoothly and stands out.

1. Choose the Right Format: Scramble vs. Stroke Play

The format sets the tone for your event. Two common options:

Scramble (Best for Corporate Events)

  • All players tee off.
  • The team picks the best shot.
  • Everyone plays from that spot until the ball is holed.

Why it works: It’s fast, fun, and team-based- great for mixed skill levels.

Stroke Play (More Competitive)

  • Each player plays their own ball the entire round.
  • Lowest total strokes wins.
  • This is the golf you see on TV.

Why it’s harder: Slower pace and more individual pressure—not ideal for large or mixed-skill groups.

Recommendation: Choose a scramble for your first corporate outing.

2. Pick a Start Type: Shotgun vs. Tee Time

How your event starts affects logistics and timing:

Shotgun Start

  • All groups start on different holes at the same time.
  • Everyone finishes together.
  • Best for large groups, awards, or meals afterward.

Tee Time Start

  • Groups tee off one after another from hole #1.
  • Players finish at staggered times.
  • Ideal for small events or limited course availability.

Pro Tip: Ask your course about a modified shotgun if your group is midsized.

3. Reserve Early & Confirm the Essentials

Golf courses book fast, especially in peak season. When reaching out:

  • Have your estimated headcount ready
  • Know your preferred date and time
  • Share your format and start type
  • Ask about food, rentals, carts, and prizes

Some courses offer corporate packages that bundle everything- take advantage if available.

4. Don’t Forget the Extras

Make your outing memorable with:

  • Swag (e.g. logo balls, hats, towels)
  • Contests (e.g. longest drive, closest to the pin)
  • Food and drink options
  • Optional charity raffles or donations

These details turn an event into an experience.

5. Use Golf Event Software to Stay Organized

Planning gets easier with the right tools. Partaake helps you:

  • Build a custom event website
  • Collect registrations and payments
  • Manage tee times and pairings
  • Track sponsors and donations

It eliminates the spreadsheet chaos and makes you look like a pro.

Final Thoughts

Planning a corporate golf event doesn’t have to be stressful. Start early, go with a team-friendly format, and use tools that keep everything in one place.

Ready to plan your company’s golf outing?

Partaake helps you build a sleek event site, manage logistics, and collect payments - all for $99 per event.

👉 Start planning with Partaake