Meet our Community Makers: Shanté Brickhouse, Partnership Manager at BSNBCS

  • Community Makers
  • Mar 06, 2025
  • 10 min read

How Shanté Brickhouse Took Her Team Building to the Next Level with Cocoon Flex Spaces

When it comes to hosting corporate events, the space you choose can make all the difference. For Shanté Brickhouse, the Community Engagement & Partnership Manager at Bedford Stuyvesant New Beginnings Charter School,  BSNBCS, finding the right venue for team-building and holiday parties wasn’t just about finding a location—it was about creating an experience. After working with Cocoon Flex Spaces to host both a team-building workshop and a holiday celebration, Shanté experienced firsthand how a unique venue, coupled with exceptional service, can transform an event. Let’s take a deeper look at her journey and how Cocoon’s Discovery Portfolio and location-scouting services helped make these events unforgettable.

cocoon casa sutton bts team building shante brickhouse portrait table setup

Shanté stands proudly in one of Cocoon’s Discovery Portfolio spaces, showcasing a stunning event setup. The space features beautifully decorated tables with floral centerpieces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. With its industrial-chic design, large windows, and colorful lighting, the space offers the perfect setting for corporate events, meetings, and celebrations.

 Explore our top Event Venues in New York City and find the perfect space for your team.

The Power of Unique Event Spaces for Team-Building

Team-building events are an essential part of any company’s culture. They not only strengthen relationships but also help improve collaboration, creativity, and productivity. Shanté’s team-building workshop was designed to help her staff begin the school year on the right foot—and she knew she needed a venue that would inspire engagement and foster a positive atmosphere. Shanté’s team-building event wasn’t just any workshop, it was the kickoff for the new school year with all the teachers of the school. This event was critical in setting the tone for the year ahead, especially considering the challenges of working with kids. The goal was to inspire the teachers, foster strong relationships between departments, and help them feel connected and supported as they prepared for the demanding year. With this vision in mind, Shanté turned to Cocoon Flex Spaces to provide the perfect environment for an energizing and collaborative experience.
cocoon casa sutton bts team building shante brickhouse presenting

Shanté delivers an inspiring talk at a Cocoon’s Discovery Portfolio space, where the industrial-chic design, exposed brick, and vibrant lighting create the perfect atmosphere for impactful presentations and community gatherings.

Shanté chose one of Cocoon’s locations from the Discovery Portfolio, and the results were immediate. “This team was a cohesive group of people who work together seamlessly to create a welcoming, positive environment for us.”

Choosing a unique venue for team-building has its advantages:

  • Increased Engagement: Unconventional spaces spark creativity and engagement, allowing team members to step out of their usual work environment and focus on collaboration.
  • Stronger Team Bonding: When people come together in an inspiring space, connections naturally deepen, leading to better communication and camaraderie.
  • Memorable Event: A unique venue leaves a lasting impression, which is important for creating memorable experiences.
Beautiful dinner setup at a Cocoon Casa during a corporate team-building event, offering an elegant space for networking and company celebrations.

Attendees gather for an engaging presentation in a theater-style room, featuring comfortable seating, a large projector screen, and industrial-style design with exposed pipes—perfect for conferences, workshops, and corporate events.

cocoon casa sutton bts team building black table setting

A wide shot of the beautifully arranged event space showcasing round tables with floral centerpieces under soft lighting. The open layout, high ceilings, and industrial charm make it ideal for large gatherings, networking events, and banquets.

cocoon casa sutton bts team building dinner

A vibrant and lively scene, where attendees engage with the presenter. The space’s large windows, exposed brick, and customizable layout highlight its versatility for panels, presentations, and community events.

Need some help finding the perfect space for your event? Our team is here to assist you – send us an inquiry!

Discovering the Perfect Space: The Discovery Portfolio and Location Scouting

One of the most valuable services that Cocoon offers is location scouting. It’s more than just finding a place—it’s about understanding a client’s needs and curating a space that fits those needs perfectly. Shanté’s team was looking for a space that offered more than the typical offsite venues, and that’s where the Discovery Portfolio came into play.

cocoon casa shell bts holiday party white table setup

Beautifully styled white tables, glowing centerpieces, and floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a warm and inviting setting perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations.

cocoon casa shell bts holiday party gathering

Attendees gather around intimate seating areas where soft lighting and elegant design foster conversation and connection during Shanté’s holiday celebration.

The Discovery Portfolio is a collection of unconventional spaces that are perfect for corporate events, team-building activities, and even intimate gatherings. From warehouses to penthouses, each space offers something unique and memorable. What sets these venues apart isn’t just their look; it’s the ability to be tailored to the event, giving clients the freedom to create something truly special.

Whether it’s an event with specific technical needs, a large guest list, or simply a desire for something out of the ordinary, Cocoon’s location scouting ensures every detail is covered. Shanté’s experience is a great example of how we can go above and beyond to deliver the perfect setting for your event, no matter how complex the requirements.

cocoon casa shell bts holiday party bar area

The holiday spirit flows at the fully stocked bar, where guests enjoy crafted cocktails, adding to the lively and vibrant atmosphere of the event.

 

cocoon casa shell bts holiday party attendees

Guests enjoy a festive evening where the open floor plan and stylish décor provide the perfect atmosphere for mingling, dancing, and celebrating the season.

Explore unique and unconventional venues for your event, See All Our Spaces!

Elevating Corporate Events: Holiday Parties with Cocoon Flex Spaces

After the success of their team-building workshop, Shanté and her team returned to Cocoon Flex Spaces for their annual holiday party. This time, they chose another incredible venue from the Discovery Portfolio. With its expansive layout, state-of-the-art amenities, and cozy, festive atmosphere, it was the perfect spot for a celebration.

“The Cocoon service and booking experience was one like I’ve never experienced” Shanté said. “They provided excellent customer service and did all of the leg work that I would normally have to do!” With Cocoon’s full-service support, every detail was taken care of, from setting up decorations to coordinating food and drink options. The team even helped with last-minute requests—ensuring the event went off without a hitch.

When choosing a venue for a holiday party or any corporate event, it’s important to find a space that can accommodate not just the number of guests, but the atmosphere you’re trying to create. Whether it’s a festive holiday bash or a more formal event, Cocoon delivered everything Shanté needed for a successful celebration.

cocoon casa shell bts holiday party winter decor

A stunning holiday display at one of Cocoon’s Discovery Portfolio spaces, featuring elegant pearl-white balloons, twinkling lights, and a beautifully crafted wire reindeer sculpture. The festive design adds a magical touch to the space, making it perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations.

What Makes Cocoon’s Services Stand Out for Corporate Events

What truly sets Cocoon apart is our ability to offer end-to-end support for your events. From booking and logistics to post-event follow-up, we’re here to ensure everything runs smoothly. Shanté’s experience with Cocoon was a testament to how our team works tirelessly to meet clients’ needs.

In this video, Shanté reflects on her event with Cocoon, sharing how the space’s open layout, stylish design, and inviting atmosphere created the perfect setting for her celebration.

 

One of the standout services is our SuperConcierge team, which assists with all aspects of event planning, from catering to technical setup. Having a dedicated Casa Manager on-site during the event means you always have a point person to handle any last-minute needs, ensuring a seamless experience for both you and your guests.

Randa and Leroi, the Casa Managers for Shanté in her beautiful event say hello!

 

The Benefits of Hosting Corporate Events in Unconventional Venues

There are a few challenges when it comes to hosting an event in an unconventional venue, but the benefits often outweigh the downsides. Shanté’s experience was no exception. While the unique setting of the Casa spaces created a truly memorable event, there were a few logistical challenges to consider.
cocoon casa shell bts holiday party guests dancing

Guests enjoy the festive atmosphere as they hit the dance floor during Shanté’s holiday celebration. The vibrant lighting and open space create the perfect setting for joy, connection, and celebration.

Pros of Unconventional Venues:

  • Unique Experience: Unconventional venues offer an experience that traditional venues simply can’t match.
  • Creativity and Engagement: Unusual venues spark creativity and encourage guests to engage in new ways.
  • Stronger Team Building: These spaces create an environment where teams can bond on a deeper level, making collaboration and communication stronger.

 

 

Cons to Keep in Mind:

 

  • Logistics and Accessibility: Some unconventional venues may be harder to access or require additional planning for transportation or setup.
  • Higher Costs: While the experience is one-of-a-kind, unconventional venues may come with a higher price tag.
  • Limited Facilities: Unlike traditional event venues, unconventional spaces may lack certain amenities, though Cocoon’s services always work to make up for these gaps.
cocoon casa sutton bts team building presentation

A powerful learning moment where attendees engage in an educational session surrounded by a professional green screen setup, ideal for workshops, trainings, and media productions.

cocoon casa sutton bts team building group

Attendees connect during Shanté’s event, fostering community and engagement in the space’s dynamic and flexible environment, perfect for networking and team-building activities.

Shanté’s Experience: A Seamless Booking and Event Planning Process

Shanté’s experience with Cocoon Flex Spaces wasn’t just about the venues—it was about the smooth, stress-free process of working with our team. From the first inquiry to the final event wrap-up, Cocoon took care of every detail.

“Communication was the biggest takeaway for me,” Shanté shared. “The Cocoon team was friendly, attentive, and proactive, ensuring that we felt valued and well taken care of from the moment we arrived. Above all, they work with passion, pride, and a shared commitment to providing an exceptional experience.”

cocoon casa sutton bts team building shante brickhouse portrait lobby

Shanté smiles at the stylish bar at one of Cocoon’s Discovery Portfolio spaces, with exposed brick walls and warm lighting fixtures, showcasing how the space blends elegance and comfort, making it ideal for receptions and networking events.

Wrapping Up

When it comes to hosting a corporate event, whether it’s a team-building workshop or a holiday party, the space you choose matters. Shanté Brickhouse’s experience with Cocoon Flex Spaces proves that unique venues and exceptional service can elevate any event to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind space or full-service event support, Cocoon is here to make your event a success.

Ready to find the perfect venue for your next corporate event? Get in touch with us today to explore our Discovery Portfolio and book a consultation with our location scouts.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the Discovery Portfolio?

Cocoon Flex Spaces’ Discovery Portfolio features a curated selection of unconventional event venues that are perfect for corporate offsites, team-building activities, and more. These spaces offer unique, creative environments that standard venues can’t match.

How can Cocoon’s location scouting services help with event planning?

Cocoon’s location scouting team works with you to understand your event’s needs and sources the perfect venue for your event—whether from our Discovery Portfolio or other partner spaces.

What makes Cocoon’s venues different from traditional event spaces?

Cocoon offers a variety of unconventional spaces—like penthouses, galleries, and historic buildings—that provide a more memorable and inspiring backdrop for your event compared to traditional venues.

What types of events can be hosted in a Cocoon venue?

From corporate meetings and team-building workshops to product launches and holiday parties, our spaces are versatile and designed to accommodate a wide range of events.

How does Cocoon support clients with event logistics and planning?

With our SuperConcierge service and on-site Casa Managers, we handle everything from setup to breakdown, allowing you to focus on your event rather than logistics.

Written By

Piero Faggiolly is a Marketing Specialist at Cocoon Flex Spaces, where he works closely with the team to share practical insights about event venues, media productions, weddings, brand activations, and corporate gatherings across New York City.

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    Group portrait of the Cocoon team in a bright studio space, with members casually posing on chairs, stools, and the floor, a man sitting on a ladder reading a book, and a disco ball and plants on the floor.

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