Choose an appropriate meeting time and announce it well in advance. Set a time limit and stick to it. Remember, members have other commitments. They will be more likely to attend meetings if you make them productive, predictable and as short as possible. A conference table is best.
Leaders have better control when they are centrally located.
Choose a location suitable to your group's size. Small rooms with too many people get stuffy and create tension. A larger room is more comfortable and encourages individual expression. Use visual aids for interest, e.g., posters, diagrams, etc. Post a large agenda up front for members to refer to.