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A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION NOVEMBER 2019 VOL. 37 NO. 11 $12.00

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2020 BUDGETING Unique Food GAMING and Beverage RESORTS Options Please FACE-TO-FACE Attendees and MEETINGS Keep Clients Coming Back CAPABLE for More LEADERSHIP MEETINGS IN 2025 DESTINATION: PACIFIC NORTHWEST 2019 Photo: DepositPhotos.com Photo: AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE A place for every planner

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Terms and conditions: Offer begins 9/9/2019. Book by 12/31/2019 for travel by 6/30/2020. This offer is only available for events in which the peak night includes no less than twenty-five (25) sleeping rooms. Must be new business as of 9/9/2019 (meaning new lead opportunities contracted on or after 9/9/2019) and does not apply to citywide bookings. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Hotel availability and cancellation policies vary. This offer must be specifically referenced as MP2019 within the event/group hotel contract for benefits advertised here to apply. Void where prohibited by law. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc. reserves the right to change/terminate this offer at any time without notice. © 2019 Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc. All rights reserved. All hotels are independently owned and operated except certain hotels managed or owned by a subsidiary of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc. VOLUME 37 NO. 11 // NOVEMBER 2019 ISSN 0739-1587 // USPS 716-450 IN THIS ISSUE // features

Budgeting for 2020 Meetings in 2025 14 42 Attendees Continue to Crave Engaging Industry Experts Look Into the Future Experiences, But You Don’t Have to of Meetings and Tell Us What to Expect

Bust Your Budget BY CHRISTINE LOOMIS BY PATRICK SIMMS 54 2019 Awards of Excellence A Sure Bet The Best of the Best CVBs, Hotels, Resorts 18 and Conference Centers Getting Down to Business at Resorts with Gaming BY CORPORATE & INCENTIVE TRAVEL STAFF BY CHRISTINE LOOMIS

The Importance of Face Time 24 By Every Measure, Face-to-Face 18 Meetings Beat Virtual Meetings

BY DEREK REVERON Menus That ‘Wow’ 30 Unique Food and Beverage Options Please Attendees and Keep Clients Coming Back for More BY MAURA KELLER What Is Capable Leadership 30 36 and Why Does It Matter? Successful Planners Offer Tips on How to Lead a Team BY PATRICK SIMMS destinations 36 Destination: Pacific Northwest 48 New and Refreshed Venues Make the Pacific Northwest Prime for Meetings and Events BY DAVID SWANSON 42 departments 04 Publisher’s Message 06 News & Notes 07 Tips & Trends 10 Perspective Guns, Mass Shootings & The Events Industry: Our Missing Voice 48 BY HOWARD GIVNER 12 Perspective 5 Ways to Ensure Overachieving Isn’t Undermining Your Success BY MERILEE KERN, MBA 82 People on the Move Jason Anglin

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 3 v PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE //

It’s That Time Again A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION Budgeting your meetings and incentive programs for 2020 and beyond PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Harvey Grotsky presents the annual challenge of “How do I do it to satisfy the objectives [email protected] without busting the budget?” Rising air travel costs for a few destinations CREATIVE DIRECTOR are causing some planners to look at more domestic destinations, rather Kristin Bjornsen than international, especially for incentive programs. It is estimated that the [email protected] average cost per attendee per day excluding airfare ranges from $539 to $685 MANAGING EDITOR Henry Fitzgerald depending on the type of event. [email protected] Aside from airfare and lodging costs, food and beverage increases are also EDITORIAL COORDINATOR important to factor into the budget. Some ho- Heather Ballis tels have special market menus that focus on [email protected] local and sustainable meals, which may have DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR Christine Smith a higher cost associated with your choice. [email protected] Also, beware of resort fees and other charg- CONTRIBUTING EDITORS es that may not be negotiable. You will find Sophia Bennett Sara Churchville our “Budgeting for 2020” story in this issue Cynthia Dial to be a helpful reminder of some pitfalls that Maura Keller Christine Loomis you may be facing. Derek Reveron Patrick Simms If you are looking for resorts that provide David Swanson an exciting and entertaining experience, look PRESIDENT & CEO no further than gaming resorts, which are Harvey Grotsky

sure to please most attendees. You’ll find the VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS ideal venue in “A Sure Bet” in this issue, which David Middlebrook [email protected] highlights a limited selection of gaming resorts ADVERTISING SALES OFFICES both domestic and in the Bahamas. Most attendees will no doubt consider the 2700 N. Military Trail, Suite 120 gaming aspect as an added attraction. Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 561-989-0600 Fax: 561-989-9509 Our cover story in this issue presents “Menus That ‘Wow,’” which [email protected]

explains how to choose food and beverage options sure to create memorable REGIONAL MANAGER, TEXAS/ experiences. In many cases today, seeing the trend of food as entertainment OKLAHOMA/ARKANSAS/LOUISIANA Tim Kedzuch continues to gain in popularity and importance. Check out the food options 630-728-9204 for groups of all sizes, and don’t forget the ‘trendy tastes.’ In reality, foods will [email protected] always be evolving and changing, so it pays to be aware of the latest trends.

Corporate & Incentive Travel (USPS 716-450) is published monthly by Coastal Communications Corporation, 2700 North Military Trail — Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394; 561-989-0600. Single copies $12.00 U.S.A. only. Yearly subscription price is $125.00 in the U.S.A.; Canada and foreign is $165.00. Back copies $14.00 U.S.A. only. Distributed without charge to qualified personnel. Periodicals Postage Paid at Boca Raton, FL, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Corporate & Incentive Travel, 2700 North Military Trail — Suite 120, Boca Harvey Grotsky Raton, FL 33431-6394. Nothing contained in this publication Publisher shall constitute an endorsement by Coastal Communications Corporation (Corporate & Incentive Travel), and the publication disclaims any liability with respect to the use of or reliance on any such information. The information contained in this publication is in no way to be construed as a recommendation by C&IT of any industry standard, or as a recommendation of any kind to be adopted, by or to be binding upon, any corporate/incentive travel planner or agent. Reproduction of any portion of this publication by any means is strictly forbidden. Editorial contributions must be accompanied by return postage and will be handled with FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA reasonable care. However, the publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited photographs or manuscripts. Subscribers: Send subscription inquiries and address changes to: Circulation Department, Corporate & Incentive Travel, 2700 North Military Trail — Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394. Provide old and new addresses including zip codes. Enclose address label from most recent issue and please allow five weeks for the change to become effective. Printed in U.S.A. © 2019

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4 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com

NEWS + NOTES //

RECOGNITIONS Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in Top 100 Resorts LA ROMANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC — Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, home to the Caribbean’s premier, luxury golf experiences, including the iconic Teeth of the Dog course — has been honored in GOLF Magazine’s inaugural “Top 100 Resorts Casa de Campo in North America” list featured in its Resort & Villas golf October issue. Showcasing the ‘best of course. the best,’ Casa de Campo joins premier destinations including Pebble Beach Resorts, The American Club, Bandon polished customer service, superb golf, de Campo. “The coveted accolade is a Dunes Golf Resort and Pinehurst high-end amenities and outstanding tribute to our superlative golf and resort Resort, in the elevated rankings. off-course experiences. “We’re flattered amenities, as well as our exceptional Casa de Campo was featured in the to receive this significant honor customer service. We cordially invite ‘General Luxury’ category, identifying from GOLF Magazine,” says Andres one and all to visit us here in paradise exemplary resorts highlighting their Pichardo Rosenberg, president of Casa for a getaway to long treasure.

OPENINGS St. Thomas Resort — a $200 million and features a 3,000-sf beachfront Frenchman’s Reef dual resort project well underway. The ballroom. “DiamondRock is creating re-envisioned resorts are expected to two truly unique resorts in the Virgin Marriott Resort & Spa open in 2020. The Frenchman’s Reef Islands. The irreplaceable location and and Noni Beach Resort Marriott Resort & Spa, dramatically superlative quality of DiamondRock’s Opening in 2020 situated atop a harborside cliff with resort property in concert with panoramic ocean views, will boast 384 Marriott’s world-class brands will ST. THOMAS, USVI — DiamondRock guest rooms and includes 85,000 sf create an unparalleled and authentic Hospitality recently announced of extraordinary indoor and outdoor island guest experience. Moreover, the highly anticipated return of the event space. Noni Beach Resort, the we take pride in bringing well over Frenchman’s Reef Marriott Resort first Autograph Collection hotel in 400 new jobs back to the St. Thomas & Spa, and the addition of a new, the U.S. Virgin Islands, is comprised community,” says Mark Brugger, adjacent resort under Marriott’s of series of intimate, beach-house president and CEO, DiamondRock Autograph Collection, Noni Beach, a style villas containing 94 guest rooms, Hospitality Company.

INDUSTRY NEWS host destination while raising more SITE Classic Raises than $250,000 for SITE Foundation projects on research, education and More Than $250,000 advocacy. “SITE Classic is our flagship for Research And fundraising event. Its success is down Education to our incredible sponsors who donate amazing bucket-list travel packages, NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The 13th and our patrons and supporters who annual SITE Classic was recently held dig deep to buy them. It’s fitting too at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar with 300 that we raise money in and through incentive travel professionals. Attendees extraordinary travel experiences … ”, connected and built their professional says Didier Scaillet, CIS, CITP, CEO of SITE’s Ellie MacPherson, CITP, and Jennifer Glynn. networks, learned new skills and SITE & SITE Foundation. SITE Classic discovered the pulse of a truly stunning 2020 will be held Sept. 27-30 in Seattle.

6 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com TIPS + TRENDS

OPENINGS Lincolnshire Marriott Resort The Ritz-Carlton, St. Offers Tips for Top-Notch Thomas Reopening Team Building on a Budget This Month ST. THOMAS, USVI — The Ritz- Carlton, St. Thomas, which shuttered in the wake of Hurricane Irma in 2017, is set to reopen this month. The 180-room property has undergone an extensive $100 million makeover. Among the offerings of the resort include: four restaurants, featuring a Sicilian menu at Alloro; a remodeled infinity pool; a new family friendly pool; five indoor meeting spaces; six outdoor event spaces; a renovated Club Lounge; and a luxury catamaran for sunset cruises, snorkeling tours and private events. RECOGNITIONS Visit San Antonio Lincolnshire Marriott Resort The sales and event team at Lincolnshire Marriott Named a Top the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort in Resort Porte Cochere Workplace for 2019 Illinois doesn’t mind being called SAN ANTONIO, TX — The public- frugal — as long as they are helping clients have fun with rewarding team- member created protective gear for a private nonprofit, Visit San Antonio, building activities. raw egg to drop from the second-story the sales and marketing arm for the “We get a kick out of being as balcony above the main lobby — which City of San Antonio, has been selected creative as possible for our meeting the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort team by its employees as a Top Workplace for clients,” says Julie Berry, director of was happy to completely ensconce in 2019. The organization was recognized sales and marketing at the Lincolnshire plastic wrap. Marriott Resort. “Plus, we’ve found Chi-town Chili Cookoff: Chili tastes at an awards luncheon held at the J.W. that the best team-building exercises better when teams compete. It works Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa, don’t have to cost a lot of money to be as a cost-saving measure for meetings and will be showcased along with other extremely valuable and memorable.” as well — no catering is needed when winners in a Top The Lincolnshire Marriott Resort guests make their own dinner. Workplaces spe- has 28 meeting rooms and more than The meeting planners at the 40,000 sf of event space and acres Lincolnshire Marriott Resort recommend cial section to be of outdoor space, and groups can do a incorporating meal preparations and published in the team-building exercise anywhere in or cooking contests into team-building San Antonio Ex- outside the resort. The tenured sales events to maximize their event budget. press-News. The and event team welcomes the ingenuity Berry and the rest of the sales and city welcomes 39 and the energy these activities bring to event planning team look forward to the property. inventing even more ideas for group million visitors a Some recent budget-friendly and fun team building on a budget. Matej year as part of a ideas have included: “When the ideas are out of the box tourism and hos- Recycled Regatta: Three teams and crazy, it’s more likely participants will pitality industry that generates $15.2 competed to each build a boat out of build lasting connections with each other billion in economic impact. Visit San recycled materials that would actually and gain a feeling of team unity that can hold a person and float. The first team last for a long time,” Berry says. Antonio, which includes 87 employees, to complete a boat and have a team For more information about the works daily to position San Antonio as member propel themselves across the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, for a leading leisure and meetings desti- pool was the winner. reservations or to inquire about events, nation. “Visit San Antonio takes great Egg Drop Tournament: Corporate meeting planners can visit the resort’s pride in its ability to attract and retain participants had a chance to redeem website at marriott.com/chiln or contact top talent,” says Casandra Matej, presi- their middle-school egg-drop failures the hotel sales team at 847-634-0100. in a grown-up version of the activity. — Julie Berry, director of sales and dent and CEO at Visit San Antonio. Using easy-to-find materials, each team marketing

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 7 RECOGNITIONS Three Caesars properties Caesars in Atlantic City were Entertainment’s recognized for corporate social Atlantic City responsibility efforts. Properties Receive Green Key Global Awards ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — Caesars Entertainment’s three Atlantic City properties received ‘green keys’ from Green Key Global in recognition of leadership and commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability initiatives. Together, Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City, Bally’s Atlantic Caesars Entertainment City and Caesars Atlantic City par- ticipated in the Green Key Meetings offering more than 208,000 sf of flex- Key Global noted that the three Cae- Program. In collaboration with Meet- ible meeting space. Green Key Global sars Entertainment properties feature ing Professionals International (MPI), highlighted the meeting space for guest rooms that have high-efficiency the Green Key Meetings Program its strategies to reduce waste during plumbing fixtures. “I’d like to com- awarded each Caesars Entertainment meetings, such as: exclusively elec- mend Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City, property at least four out of five green tronic communications with meet- Bally’s Atlantic City and Caesars At- keys for their sustainable operations ing planners; donating used goods lantic City for demonstrating a com- at the facility level, including Harrah’s to the community; and displaying a mitment to Responsible Meetings,” Atlantic City’s Waterfront Conference preference for reusable, versus dis- said Gwen Migita, Caesars Entertain- Center — the largest hotel-conference posable table settings. In contributing ment global head of social impact, eq- center from Baltimore to Boston — to a high sustainability rating, Green uity and sustainability.

NEW CONSTRUCTION Brothers Distillery. In place of rais- be treated to an exclusive Austin Mar- Austin Marriott ing the ‘final beam,’ the Austin Mar- riott-inspired whiskey tasting. Austin riott Downtown raised three Garrison Marriott Downtown will feature 613 Downtown Celebrates Brothers bourbon barrels via crane guest rooms, including: 25 stunning ‘Topping Off’ Event onto the hotel’s rooftop to commemo- suites, a rooftop pool and bar concept AUSTIN, TX — To celebrate the com- rate structural completion. The bar- with breathtaking views, three bars pletion of its structural framework, rels will remain on the roof through- and two locally inspired restaurant Austin Marriott Downtown hosted a out the duration of the construction concepts on the ground level. Addi- ‘topping-off’ event in collaboration period until opening in mid-2020, at tionally, the hotel will offer more than with local spirit masters, Garrison which time the hotel’s first guests will 60,000 sf of meeting space.

GOLF VENUES back yard, with eight all-new holes and Wynn Golf Club Las 10 revamped holes. Fazio took special care to create a course suitable for play- Vegas Returns With ers of all skill levels. New golfers will Championship Course find it approachable and fun, while LAS VEGAS, NV — The only resort more experienced players will be tested golf course on the Las Vegas Strip re- by the movement of the land, locating cently returned at Wynn Las Vegas, the proper angles and getting close to with the grand reopening of the Wynn the pins on the large flowing greens. Golf Club. The original 18-hole cham- “Tom Fazio has outdone himself de- pionship course, established in 2005, signing a beautiful and unique new has been reimagined by legendary golf course that is even better than the one course architect, Tom Fazio. The course before,” says Marilyn Spiegel, president Brian Oar sits on 129 acres of the resort’s private of Wynn Las Vegas and Encore.

8 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com OPENINGS The newly opened Grand Grand Hyatt at SFO Hyatt at SFO has soundproof, Officially Opens floor-to-ceiling windows. SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Now boarding at San Francisco Interna- tional Airport (SFO), Grand Hyatt at SFO has officially welcomed guests to experience the airport’s first, and only, luxury hotel. From global and corporate business travelers to leisure guests, Grand Hyatt at SFO is offering travelers thoughtful amenities that bring together luxury and convenience, whether staying overnight or for the most comfortable layover. Within minutes, guests can travel from the hotel’s own AirTrain to the lobby for check-in and be immediately greeted at Grand Hy- att at SFO with an abundance of natu- Hornberger & Worstell ral light, soundproof, floor-to-ceiling spa treatments and on-demand fitness rooms with 22 suites; 14,435 sf of well- windows, expansive airport views classes at the 24-hour StayFit gym with appointed meeting and event space; a and an impressive art collection ex- Peloton bicycles. As part of Hyatt’s ex- 24-hour market; and signature restau- clusively curated by the San Francisco pansion of 40 new West Coast hotels rant, Quail & Crane, where guests can Arts Commission. To de-stress pre or by 2021, the $237 million luxury ho- enjoy a vibrant, multicultural dining post flight, guests can rejuvenate with tel sits on 4.2 acres and features 351 experience.

RENOVATIONS Seminole Hard Rock & Casino Tampa Completes $700 Million Expansion

TAMPA, FL — In true Hard Rock style, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Celebrities Nicole Kidman and Casino Tampa recently unveiled it’s Christie Brinkley with members of highly anticipated, $700 million ex- the Seminole Tribe of Florida. pansion following the brand’s signature Guitar Smash and a high wire a new, 14-story hotel tower offer- the largest and most profitable casinos walk by the ‘King of the High Wire,’ ing 562 additional hotel rooms and in the United States,” said Jim Allen, Nik Wallenda. Home to Elvis Pres- suites; three pools; a 26,000-sf Rock Hard Rock International chairman ley’s iconic 24-karat, gold-leaf plated Spa & Salon; and a 223,900-sf casino and CEO of Seminole Gaming. “The 1928 Kimball Piano Company Grand with an additional 1,000 slots and 41 expansion will increase entertainment Piano, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & table games throughout its new gam- and dining options, and help us attract Casino Tampa now houses: 14 de- ing spaces. “Seminole Hard Rock Ho- guests from throughout the country lectable food and beverage offerings; tel & Casino Tampa is already one of and around the world.”

CRUISE INDUSTRY ship, due in November 2021, will be America — before Discovery Princess Princess Cruises named Discovery Princess. It will be arrives for its West Coast debut. The the first new ship in Princess history 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess is Welcomes New Ship, to be homeported in Los Angeles. under construction at the Fincantieri Discovery Princess Cruises are open for sale beginning shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. Princess’ LOS ANGELES, CA — Princess Cruis- early October, with itineraries set in the repeat guests are eligible for a special es has announced its sixth Royal-class Mediterranean, Caribbean and South promotion when booking early.

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 9 PERSPECTIVE //

Guns, Mass Shootings & The Events Industry: Our Missing Voice

BY HOWARD GIVNER

or a number of years, I’ve been on numerous fronts. Yet the only dis- giving a presentation at industry cussions I’ve seen in the industry have conferences on “Disruptions Fac- focused on reactive measures, such as ing the Events Industry.” Of all increased security and active shooter the various potential disruptions – drills. We can, and must, address economic, political, technological, both the cause and the symptoms. Fsocial, etc. – gun violence and mass shootings at events is the one I’ve been most worried The Business Risk about. They pose an existential threat to One of the 9/11 Commission the meetings and events industry: to the Report’s most haunting statements safety of our event attendees, the viability is that those attacks could have of the businesses that produce them and been prevented. This shouldn’t the livelihoods of the people they employ. be a problem for our industry, As of this writing, the deadliest mass since there have been shoot- shooting in U.S. history – the 2017 Route ings at festivals and other 91 Harvest music festival in Las Vegas, events. If, however, you’re in which 59 people were killed – took thinking, “Yeah, but that’s dif- place at an event. Other mass shootings in ferent; I plan conferences,” let’s recent years have also occurred at events: paint an image closer to home: a movie premiere, a food festival and an Picture someone committing a mass shooting at employee gathering. your most important, high-profile event. What

Recently, 145 CEOs sent a letter to the DepositPhotos.com would the fallout be for that event and your U.S. Senate, urging them to take action on organization? What lawsuits would your com- this issue, including: Uber, Levi Strauss, pany be facing? Other companies would likely Dick’s Sporting Goods, Gap, Twitter, cancel or dramatically curtail their own events. Condé Nast and Omnicom. Additionally, If a mass shooting occurred at a banking confer- event and hospitality industry companies ence, for example, you can bet that executives at include: Eventbrite, Airbnb, Splash, Royal the other banks would be re-evaluating their event Caribbean Cruises and Stanlee Gatti Designs. It plans as well. Attendees outside the U.S. will start is long overdue that our industry join this effort. re-thinking coming to events here. In fact, more countries are issuing advisory warnings about the The ‘Duty of Care’ Principle risks of gun violence when traveling to the U.S. The At its core, this a safety issue. The ‘duty of events industry could take years to recover. care’ principle calls for planners to do whatever is reasonably feasible to safeguard the well-being of event Increased Costs attendees, staff and other stakeholders. When thinking Further, events would start to incur significantly higher of all the things that could go wrong at an event, surely security costs, due to additional guards, metal detectors, nothing would be worse than mass murder. This is our physical barriers, surveillance cameras, etc. Registration responsibility, plain and simple. Just about any other lists may have to be scrutinized more carefully. Tighter safety risk would galvanize the events industry to action security for vendors at the loading dock would slow the

10 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com installation process and require longer rental periods. The come at the expense of any other worthwhile causes. We small armies of catering and event staff may have to go can walk and chew gum at the same time. What will it take through background checks. Insurance for venues, hosts before we start speaking out on the mortal threat gun vio- and vendors would increase. lence poses to our businesses and the people we are charged with safeguarding at our events? Where is our outrage? Open Carry Laws While a mass shooting is clearly the worst of the gun Taking a Stand scenarios, event attendees openly carrying firearms should Now is the time to act. Let’s not wait until yet another also be a cause for concern. Picture the impact of someone atrocity occurs at an event. Let’s start by advocating two with an AR-15 slung over their shoulder walking your show policy initiatives already enjoying widespread and biparti- floor, or someone with a holstered handgun arguing with san public support, and can make a huge impact: registration personnel. 1) Institute universal back- And even if you’re able to ground checks by having the bar firearms at your event, Senate pass the Bipartisan which a number of states What will it take before Background Checks Act of won’t allow you to do, it’s “ 2019 (H.R. 8) which passed unlikely you’ll be able to stop we start speaking out on the the House of Representatives people from being armed in early this year. common areas — e.g. con- 2) Reinstate the federal vention center or hotel lob- MORTAL THREAT assault weapons ban that bies — or ancillary event expired in 2004. sites like restaurants. (See: gun violence poses to This is the bare minimum Can We Keep Guns Out Of our industry should support, Meetings?) Currently 44 our businesses and the and is still a far cry from the states allow open carry of regulations in most industri- rifles and shotguns. Further, people we are charged with alized countries. Here are a 31 states allow open carry few things you can do: of handguns with no permit safeguarding at our events? · Sign the Petition for Gun required, while another 15 ” Safety at Events on behalf of states require some permit our industry, supporting the or license. (Source: Giffords Law Center) two basic gun safety proposals outlined above, which will be delivered to members of Congress and state legislatures, Where Is the Industry’s Voice? in consultation with the corporate affairs team at Every- Given the potentially devastating impact of guns and town for Gun Safety. gun violence, it’s surprising, and quite frankly disappoint- · Join a growing coalition of CEOs, thought leading, that the meetings and events industry hasn’t been ers, influencers and industry professionals who want to more vocal in advocating for sensible gun safety. We have make a difference. a voice when we want to use it. The movement to fight · Contact your elected officials and let them know how human trafficking has received broad support at the high- this issue affects your events and businesses. est levels. The same can be said of incorporating sustain- · Speak out. Share your concerns on social media. ability and inclusiveness practices. Email editors at industry publications. Talk to your Ah, but those issues aren’t controversial, some might say. association leaders. No one is actually in favor of human trafficking, right? Well, Stand up and be counted. The current system is unsus- look at the industry’s response to recent anti-LGBTQ state tainable and we must work toward a solution together. laws, which did have strong support in those states. This is Your event attendees’ safety, and your livelihood, not a zero-sum issue. Tackling gun safety at events need not depend on it. C&IT

HOWARD GIVNER Howard Givner is the founder and CEO of the Event Leadership Institute, which provides professional development resources for the meetings and events industry through a Netflix- style library of micro-learning videos and professional development courses. Previously, he was the founder of an award-winning event agency. Givner is a frequent industry speaker, educator and consultant on business growth, event strategy, innovation, event ROI and other topics. He can be reached at [email protected].

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 11 PERSPECTIVE //

5 Ways to Ensure Overachieving Isn’t Undermining Your Success

BY MERILEE KERN, MBA

verachievement is a concept that’s seem- satisfaction — a state I have coined the ‘Superstar Para- ingly become a gold standard on how to dox,’” Eldad says. become a ‘superstar’ in business, career Below, Eldad offers the five foundational insights to goals and life overall. Just Google search help ensure some of your overachievement behaviors or ‘how to overachieve’ and the web will mindsets won’t actually undermine your success or your dutifully deliver more than 355,000 level of life satisfaction even after you’ve actually realized Oresources to help propel your prosperity. ‘superstar status.’ In today’s fast-paced business climate, masses have 1. Reframe your success story. Overachievers often surrendered themselves to overachievement in pursuit believe success only comes from power, money or status. of business and career success. Not just ordinary success, Yes, those things are important benchmarks, but being but rather, the kind that exceeds expectations courtesy successful in life overall should be the true Holy Grail. of excessive ‘above and So, if you are a C-suite beyond’ effort put forth. executive, or aspire to Some relent to a life of be one, but are riddled overachievement willingly with anxiety, stress, pain and enthusiastically as and dissatisfaction, it’s they yearn to earn, while evident that money and others grievously succumb status isn’t proving as to a multitude of pressures worthwhile as it can and — both external and self- should be. To initiate inflicted — and work them- change, be brave enough selves to extremes. to reframe your personal While overachievement story. Life isn’t meant to certainly has it’s share of be one-dimensional or virtues, having induced even work-centered, so profound innovation, actually sit down and map breakthroughs, produc- out what you would hope

tivity and abundance for DepositPhotos.com for each facet of your life individuals, organizations, to look like if it were a true industries and economies at large, there’s often a dark side success. This can include: marriage, children, extended to this extreme approach to advancement. For some, yes, family, friendships, professional networks, social media/ dreams come true, but throngs of others miss the mark networking, investments, travel, physical fitness, self-care, despite best efforts. “This often happens because they’re beauty, fashion and style, transportation, entertainment, aiming for achievements instead of at a deeper under- hobbies and passions and so on. You’ll soon see that life standing of themselves and of what they want,” says Keren fulfillment means so much more than what happens on the Eldad, a certified business coach, keynote speaker and work front. Once you start mapping it all out, you might trusted adviser to industry-leading executives, acclaimed come to the realization that you’ve been missing out on entrepreneurs and premier organizations. quite a lot in your quest for career glory. “It’s a silent story shared by many who present a 2. Get out of your own way. Even ‘superstars’ cre- happy, accomplished and enviable image; one of putting ate self-imposed limitations based on what they originally on pretenses and internally writhing with angst and anxi- perceived their goal or benchmark of success to be. Once ety; of never having enough, of insecurity, doubt and dis- achieved, it’s instinctive to want to bask in ‘that place,’

12 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com both emotionally and physically. After all, you worked to they then ‘rank’ against others. Self-acceptance, which is extremes to get there. But, overachievers inevitably will a critical factor in genuine happiness and authenticity, is want more, and then other kinds of self-imposed limita- founded on other key self-constructs like self-compassion tions kick in that are often founded on what we perceive — a person’s ability to forgive themselves for essentially our own capabilities and opportunities — or lack thereof being human and imperfect. Overachievers and aptly — to be. Even the most confident overachievers suffer the accomplished ‘superstars’ are susceptible to being heavily ‘can’t rant’ internal dialogue. Take heed that ‘can’t’ usu- dependent upon the opinions of others, their correspond- ally is not a real thing. From “I can’t afford to do what I ing status and their perceived stature versus understand- really want” to “I can’t start over now,” — this word usually ing, and primarily relying on, self-acceptance. In many really means “I won’t.” Yes, you worked hard to earn your cases, this feeling of unworthiness is what coaches like accolades and are pleased with me consider fatal flaws for the where you are, but sometimes a overachiever. It’s that ‘some- hard pivot is needed to get you thing’ about themselves they where you really want to go. Life isn’t meant to be feel makes them ‘less than.’ For 3. Classify and conquer “ overachievers, what becomes your ‘fatal flaw.’ One defini- one-dimensional or even fatal flaws are often regu- tion of a ‘fatal flaw’ is that which lar imperfections like weight, causes an otherwise noble or assets, health, children, rela- exceptional individual to bring work-centered, so actually tionships and their home. about their own downfall, 5. Pray for a storm. If you which can be their own death SIT DOWN and didn’t buy all the above points — whether figuratively or liter- yet and think, “Nah, I got this,” ally. The idea that any particular then brace yourself because a ‘fatal flaw’ is holding us back is MAP OUT what you curve ball is bound to throw you a primary reason why so many off your game. But, this unimag- overachievers become hooked would hope for each facet ined disruption can be a GOOD on their actualized achieve- thing! So many overachievers ments and come to rely on fake spend most of their lives work- confidence and aggrandizement of your life to look like if it ing to avoid the pain of uncer- versus operating from a place of tainty or problems, assuring vulnerability and authenticity. were a true success. themselves with zealous over- Sometimes the phrase ‘char- ” confidence that “it’s all going to acter flaw’ is synonymous with work out” based on the current this notion, revealing a bit more that the flaw is about the approach or way of thinking — and never mind that nag- person themselves and not really his or her circumstance. ging dissatisfaction and angst. However, I’ve found that So, to achieve ‘superstar status’ while fostering genuine, when ‘superstars’ are most comfortable and when stress lasting happiness, it’s imperative to discern if you have a finally boils over, they not only find themselves immersed ‘fatal flaw’ and, once identified, work wholeheartedly to in a major issue, but often a major ‘storm.’ When this hap- resolve it — or learn how to function at a high-level with it. pens — embrace it — open yourself to the series of new pos- 4. Course-correct crippling self-constructs. A sibilities it presents. Yes, it will be uncomfortable and tre- common obstacle to a ‘superstar’ realizing genuine hap- mendously unsettling. But it can also present an exciting piness is their own reliance on self-esteem, which is dif- opportunity: the ‘wake-up call’ to finally recognize where ferent from self-acceptance. Self-esteem is defined as “a you are and what got you there, what weaknesses and positive or negative orientation toward oneself; an overall threats have gotten the best of you, and work on thought- evaluation of one’s worth or value” and, for overachiev- fully strategized resolutions that’ll make you emotionally ers, depends on external conditions being met and how stronger and your circumstances better than before. C&IT

MERILEE KERN, MBA As the executive editor and producer of “The Luxe List,” Kern is an internationally regarded brand analyst, strategist and futurist. As a prolific branding and marketplace trends pundit, Kern spotlights noteworthy industry innovators, change makers, movers and shakers. Experts, brands, products, services, destinations and events across all categories are spotlighted in her exclusive cross-media platform through print and online publications, TV and radio. Connect with her at www.TheLuxeList.com, Instagram www.Instagram.com/LuxeListReviews, Twitter www. Twitter.com/LuxeListEditor, Facebook www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList, and LinkedIn www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern.

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 13 INDUSTRY FORECAST //

DeopositPhotos.com

Attendees Continue to Crave Engaging Experiences, But You Don’t Have to Bust Your Budget

BY PATRICK SIMMS

he experiential trend in the meet- comes from the American Express Meetings & ings industry looks to continue into Events’ 2020 Global Meetings and Events Fore- 2020, and into the foreseeable future. cast: With a 10% budget increase, most respon- Attendees of all types of meetings, dents said they would invest in an “improved not just incentive programs, seem on-site experience.” more than ever to crave engagement Guiding that investment is the corpo- Tbeyond run-of-the-mill sessions and meal func- rate culture, notes Amy Durocher, director tions. The budget for the program must thereof global accounts with Scottsdale, Arizona- fore support an impactful experience — however based Global Cynergies LLC, a venue sourc- it is defined for a given group. A telling statistic ing company. “More creative companies and

14 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com those that have a higher percentage walk through the door. Décor adds to room rate and air travel increases is of millennial employees are going transitioning from the normal to the something to talk about.” to be looking to create experiences unique or different.” that are different than perhaps your DEALING WITH more traditional Fortune 500 or 100 ENHANCING THE RISING COSTS type of companies,” she observes. MEETING EXPERIENCE Rising air travel costs may espe- Naturally, the type of meeting also Decisions about whether to invest cially affect incentive programs, which informs the ‘design’ of the experi- in elevating the meeting experience are often taken to exotic destinations ence. A unique experience is clearly must be made in the context of impend- to entice potential qualifiers. Planners a high priority for incentive trips, ing increases in air and lodging costs, may wish to look closer at domes- for example, and that can involve a as these may impinge on the budget tic cities that can offer an intriguing more significant investment. “Every available for such enhancements. The experience along with travel savings. year we have to raise the bar, so they 2020 Global Meetings and Events “If you have a limited budget, you’re want to qualify and have this expe- Forecast predicts that overall meet- not going to go a far distance where rience they couldn’t have on their ings budgets in North America will the air might be half your budget,” own,” says Ira Lawrence Almeas, rise only moderately next year — by Almeas says. “Within the U.S., going CITE, president of West Orange, 1.8% in the United States — and notes to a second-tier city such as Charles- New Jersey-based Impact Incentives that this budget expansion is “likely ton, for example, or going to Sedona & Meetings Inc. For example, while a not enough to cover the increase in air or even Sonoma/Napa could make standard city tour at the destination and hotel rates.” The survey predicts for very unique experiences.” Most may be more afford- recently, Almeas able than an exclusive planned an incentive ‘behind the scenes’ “I do think that people are trip to Toronto, which tour, the latter is a bit more sophisticated in boasts attractions such more conducive to the the way they eat, and they as the Hockey Hall of goal of delivering that Fame and is acces- unique experience. want that to be tended to sible to vineyards in The experiential when they’re at a hotel for Niagara. The air cost trend even extends several days.” is reasonable and to training meet- the exchange rate is ings, which are often AMY DUROCHER favorable, he notes. Director, Global Accounts stereotyped as a ‘no Global Cynergies LLC Another way to frills’ kind of event. reduce air travel costs “We’ve noticed an is to reduce the num- overall trend in the meeting and a 4.3% rise in daily hotel rates for the ber of attendees. The savings certainly training space, in that people are United States and a 2.8% rise in group extend beyond transportation. very interested in experience,” says air rates for North America. According to the 2020 Global Beth Becker, Global Meeting Services While many corporate meeting Meetings and Events Forecast, the Manager with Downers Grove, Illi- and travel departments are surely average cost per attendee per day — nois-based MicroTek, a training solu- preparing for such effects of infla- excluding air travel — in the United tions company. She finds that mil- tion, Durocher observes that other States begins at $539 for internal lennials and Generation Z attendees companies may be more focused on team meetings/training meetings; want training spaces and experiences the immediate future when it comes $632 for product launches; $640 for that are ‘interesting’ and schedules to meeting costs. “We at Global Cyn- senior leadership meetings/board that allow for more networking and ergies and myself specifically, are still meetings; and $685 for incentives/ impromptu breakouts. In some cases, seeing quite a bit of short-term busi- special events. For many companies, a little added investment can create ness, especially when it relates to our a more palatable option along these a more engaging meeting setup. “If corporate clients. So, some of that lines is to reduce the physical atten- budget allows — rent couches and forecasting can seem a little less top- dance. Younger professionals in par- chairs that create a more casual, com- of-mind, because we’re still working ticular are more receptive to the idea fortable look and feel,” suggests Kim with such short booking windows. of virtual participation in meetings, Hentges, CMP, event manager with Many clients are still booking meet- Becker observes. “Much of the new Flower Mound, Texas-based Intel- ings within 90 days,” she explains. generation is very much tied to work/ liCentrics. “For a working breakfast, “But when corporate clients are fore- life balance, and they’re very techni- lunch or dinner, rent unique tables casting out for their larger programs cally adept and used to a virtual learn- and chairs to create a different vibe that do have a more extended booking ing environment,” she says. “So they that is felt as soon as the attendees window, then certainly the forecast in don’t feel it necessary to get on a plane

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 15 Amy Durocher, of Global Cynergies LLC, says a charitable activity creates a positive experience for the team and for the community, and is always budget-friendly.

Request For Proposals (RFPs) in order to force the hotel to fully disclose any hidden fees that they might have, so we make sure to include those in our total cost,” Becker explains. “And you can put in your contract, that if you didn’t disclose these fees to me, I don’t have to pay them.” The next step is to try to get the fees waived or reduced. Unfortunately, resort fees and service fees will not be open to negotiation in Courtesy Amy Durocher many cases. According to the 2020 and would rather take the eight hours fully aware of these costs. Some plan- Global Meetings and Events Forecast, for the event, instead of a day before ners are seeing familiar fees repack- 83% of responding global hoteliers and after to fly there.” Virtual meeting aged or renamed. The resort fee, for indicate they are most open to nego- technology can also assist companies example, may be called a facilities fee tiating room rates; 75% say ameni- in regionalizing a meeting, i.e., break- or a destination fee. “I think hotels are ties; and 75% say Wi-Fi. But only 27% ing it down into smaller meetings held getting very creative with add-on or and 42% were open to negotiating close to regional offices so as to reduce hidden fees,” Becker says. “You’re also resort fees and service fees, respec- or eliminate air travel costs. General seeing an increase in service charges. tively. Becker’s experience reflects this sessions can then be mediated by vid- There was a recent forum discussion result: “I have not been very success- eoconferencing, for example. about people adding on to the service ful in negotiating resort fees. Occa- Apart from rising air and lodging fee and they were calling it an event sionally, I’ve been able to come down costs, F&B increases from suppliers fee. So you may see a 23% service fee a few points on service fees, but even are also important to factor into the and an 8% event fee, which brings then it’s really difficult. So, it wouldn’t budget. “Certainly, that’s something them to a 31% service fee, basically. be my first place to go to negotiate, that can be a percentage increase year And, they justify it by saying that the because I don’t think there is a lot of over year,” Durocher flexibility in those costs.” says. In addition, there is “We’ve noticed an “Sometimes we will an ongoing trend toward get RFP responses from healthy and organic overall trend in the the hotel and it will say foods, specialty foods meeting and training very clearly, ‘We do not and culinary explora- space in that people negotiate on our resort tion, etc., which tend to are very interested in fee’ or ‘We do not negoti- carry a higher price tag. ate on our facilities fee,’” “I do think that people experience.” Durocher says. “So at are a bit more sophis- BETH BECKER that point, we are very ticated in the way they Global Meeting Services Manager transparent with our cli- eat, and they want that MicroTek ent and say, ‘We’re look- to be tended to when ing at your overall bud- they’re at a hotel for get and you need to know several days,” Durocher says. “Hotels event fee is for room setup and tear- upfront this is not an area the hotel is may have a special market menu that down, but that’s really just part of the going to negotiate on, so to find some focuses on local and sustainable, and cost of your event. The service fee used additional value for you, we’re going there can be a higher cost associated.” to be the tip for the staff, and that’s to need to work on the other areas changed over the years to where now it of the program.’” The inflexibility on BE AWARE OF encompasses a lot of other things and these fees isn’t “so common that I see SURCHARGES AND FEES goes more to the hotel than the staff.” it multiple times in any given destina- As the ideal lodging budget takes The first step is to secure transpar- tion, but common enough that I might into account all of a hotelier’s sur- ency on such fees. To that end, “We’ve see it in one or two hotels in a particu- charges and fees, it’s important to be implemented language in all of our lar destination,” she adds.

16 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com native of your customers or potential “Every year we have to raise the bar customers wondering why that annual so they want to qualify and have meeting is not taking place.” this experience they couldn’t have The second most-preferred cost- cutting area identified in the Ameri- on their own.” can Express Meetings & Events survey is off-site evening events. While IRA LAWRENCE ALMEAS, CITE eliminating such events may be seen President Impact Incentives & Meetings Inc. as running counter to the experiential trend, that’s not necessarily so. “You do see corporate clients who are giving upscale lodging, F&B and perhaps their attendees a free evening,” Duro- CONSIDER OTHER off-site events, is to cut the number of cher says. “That limits the expense HOTEL OPTIONS nights in the program. This is identi- and might appeal to those attendees Planners looking to save on lodg- fied as the primary area to cut costs in who like to have a little more freedom ing while delivering an engaging on- the 2020 Global Meetings and Events on how they’re spending their time in site experience might look to some of Forecast. Compared to eliminat- a particular city. So I think it can tick the boutique brands that major chains ing events from the annual meeting more than one box.” have introduced. These can be espe- schedule, holding shorter programs Overall, planners budgeting for cially appealing to younger attendees, appears to be the best option. Even 2020 will face the typical escalations and offer a more modest price point. holding the meeting at a lower-quality in air, lodging and F&B costs, together Along these lines, Almeas suggests venue is arguably preferable to cancel- with the challenge of hard-to-negoti- Marriott’s Moxy Hotels. “It’s Marri- ling the event. “When budgets become ate resort and service fees. But thank- ott’s new entry-level, hip hotel. When tighter and/or the economy takes a fully, there are many strategies that you check in there’s no registration turn, it is still important for purpose can help them offset these costs while desk; there’s just a bar at the entrance and branding to be present, whether ‘ticking the box’ of an engaging expe- way. You check in at the bar and get that is having a smaller meeting in a rience for attendees. Once the ‘must a drink. Their rooms are nothing spe- three-star venue, restaurant or even at haves’ for that experience are identi- cial, but they’re a little funky and off- your office,” Hentges says. “Being vis- fied, the most sensible cost-cutting beat. If you have a millennial group, ible does add value, versus the alter- measures will emerge. C&IT they might not need the chocolate on the pillows and the slippers under the bed at night when there is turn-down service. You can then use the savings and do some really cool experiences Be Budget-Friendly that are local, such as distillery tast- Cost-Saving Tips From a Planning Pro ings or a give-back for the community.” Durocher cites Marriott’s AC Kim Hentges, CMP, event manager service charges associated with Hotels as “a more modern, stream- with IntelliCentrics, a healthcare each quoted proposal, in order to credentialing company, and former budget accordingly. lined approach to hotel design, but senior planner of corporate • DMCs are great partners, but it there are also many independent and events and incentives with Lennox can be more cost effective to smaller brands, especially in the urban Industries Inc., has go directly to each centers, that kind of tick those boxes accumulated a variety supplier partner for of tips that can help their services and/or and appeal to the younger clientele. her colleagues come in products. Their focus is on the public spaces of under budget. She says, • Utilize what the venue the hotel versus the accommodations, “Know your audience or hotel has in-house but the accommodations are still very and purpose in order to versus rental. create the appropriate • Work from program chic and trendy.” The caveat to these meeting or event, so history when ordering properties is that meeting space can the budget is created food and beverage, be rather limited. and spent wisely.” In to maintain realistic For some groups, opting for a addition, planners should minimums. remember that “There Hentges • Reuse centerpieces lower-tier hotel, even if it’s part of a is always more than one throughout the trendy brand and has adequate meet- way to execute something; know your program. And if utilizing floral ing space, will be seen as compromis- options.” centerpieces, check with the ing the experience for the participants. Her key points include: venue to see if they can store and • Be sure to ask for all fees and refrigerate them overnight. C&IT Among the most popular options for reducing costs while preserving

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 17 GAMING RESORTS // Getting Down to Business at Gaming Resorts

BY CHRISTINE LOOMIS

a sure bet 18 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com hen it comes to deciding where to set a meeting, gaming resorts are often an excel- Wlent choice. For some groups, gaming properties — and often the larger destinations in which they’re located — are a big draw that boosts attendance. In addition to casinos, many gaming properties also feature high- profile, in-house entertainment and exceptional restaurants helmed by acclaimed chefs, decreasing the need to go off-property, which saves on transportation costs. And many fea- Pechanga Resort Casino was the ideal venue for Southwest Traders Inc.’s ture additional amenities such as spas annual trade show. Above, attendees enjoy the MVP dinner at Journey’s End. and golf courses.

NOT A DISTRACTION door space was much appreciated 700, but that didn’t make MacLeod While conventional thinking may after long hours in meetings.” feel any less important. “The hotel be that casinos are a distraction entic- The accommodations also worked management and employees made ing attendees away from the business well. “We were able to handle our VIPs us feel very much the center of at hand, most planners don’t find with a private check-in and upgraded attention,” she says. that to be true. And though gaming accommodations very efficiently and While gaming didn’t factor into destinations sometimes get a bad effectively in one tower. The two addi- the decision to meet in Las Vegas, rap as more about extravagance and tional towers housed our attendees MacLeod notes that it was viewed indulgence than business, that’s not and special guests. These towers were as an additional amenity. In addi- generally true, either. Las Vegas, for closer to the meeting space so that was tion to providing the right meeting example, is famed for casinos but is also a great benefit.” space and range of accommodations, also a huge draw for conven- MacLeod says the tions and meetings because it hotel supported the has the infrastructure and sup- “The entertainment meeting in multiple port to make meetings produc- options that this location other ways, not the tive and successful, and a wealth brings to any group are least of which was of opportunities to provide the amazing.” with an incredible much sought-after ‘wow’ factor. staff. “Michael Cata- Lee Bentley MacLeod, CMP, lano, our sales man- president and owner, Sterling LEE BENTLEY MACLEOD, CMP ager, was outstand- President and Owner Event Planning of Williams- Sterling Event Planning of Williamsburg Inc. ing and responded burg Inc., brought a group from to all of our needs. a national food company to the The entire service Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas As for Las Vegas itself, MacLeod team was outstanding and truly with great success. sees it as a positive. “We really enjoyed unbelievable. And the entire hotel “We chose the hotel because of being very close to the airport and staff — including the setup team, location, price, sales group, meeting off the main Strip,” she says. “Our culinary group and top manage- capacities and the fact that we were attendees were focused on the meet- ment — all went beyond their normal able to have exclusive use of all meeting but were able to move onto the duties to insure the program’s suc- ing and venue space. It was a perfect Strip in the evenings after our sched- cess.” Moreover, she adds, “The hotel fit for this national sales meeting as we ule was concluded. Flights were easy helped us to connect to the right peo- were able to control all meeting space and economical from both coasts and ple for our décor and entertainment for our specific needs,” MacLeod says. ground transportation was uncom- needs. Although we brought our “The meeting space was isolated so plicated. The entertainment options own A/V team, the hotel’s A/V team that all focus was on the goals of the that this location brings to any became a part of our family and we meeting. The venue locations, both group are amazing.” all worked together toward the suc- outside and inside, were very conve- Las Vegas hosts many conferences cess of this program.” nient for the attendees and the out- far larger than MacLeod’s group of As with any meeting, there were

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 19 Pechanga Resort Casino has 200,000 sf of gaming space, and recently completed a 27-month, $300 million expansion.

just a casino and that it has many other things to offer. And we did offer our best customers a free night to enjoy the resort.” Orozco’s group didn’t have any need to go off- property. “We didn’t have to use another venue. Pechanga has everything occasional challenges, but none with- fornia, choosing Pechanga Resort you could possibly need. We used out solutions. “Problems always arise Casino for an annual trade show was hotel functions for our vendors and when working with this many people an obvious choice for Rosalinda Oro- guests. Rooms were very nice, and I as change is constant,” MacLeod says. zco, HR manager and event planner heard everyone loved the new pools,” “When these instances occurred, we with Southwest Traders Inc., a prod- Orozco says, noting that the resort had worked together to resolve any issues uct distribution company with centers recently been renovated. “The proxim- and come up with a solution that throughout the west. This year’s trade ity to the rooms from the conference worked for everyone.” show drew about 500 attendees. hall was very close, and our confer- Her advice to planners consider- “We chose Pechanga as a venue not ence space was exactly everything we ing Las Vegas, “Analyze the goals only because of the convenience that needed and more.” of the meeting and size of the meet- it’s in the same town as our warehouse, The group made use of the resort’s ing before looking at any particular but also because it’s the halfway point A/V and Wi-Fi, which Orozco describes hotel. Once this is established, find to our customers in San Diego and Los as “great.” She also has high praise for the location that will best service your Angeles,” Orozco says. Pechanga’s A/V staff. “The A/V man- needs and respond to your ager was always checking to changes as they come.” see how things were going. In this case, the Hard “Pechanga will have There were no issues.” Rock Hotel & Casino Las whatever you need. In fact, she notes, “Every Vegas was the perfect choice. And if not, they will staff member at the hotel was And it will no doubt con- do their best to make super friendly. You couldn’t tinue to be a perfect choice ask to work with anyone bet- for many groups — but it happen.” ter than our sales manager under a new flag with a new and our catering and con- ROSALINDA OROZCO design. In February, con- HR Manager and Event Planner ference managers. They are struction begins on a project Southwest Traders Inc. always one step ahead.” to develop the property as Some of the Southwest the new Virgin Hotels Las Traders Inc. attendees took Vegas, part of the Curio Collection But it was more than just loca- part in a tournament at the resort’s by Hilton. Slated to open at the end tion. “Pechanga Resort Casino has golf facility. “We had a golf tourna- of next year, the design will include something for everyone to enjoy,” she ment the day before our product 1,504 ‘chambers’ with considerable adds. “Pechanga will have whatever show,” Orozco says. “It was amazing. in-room technology, an ‘immersive’ you need. And if not, they will do their The golf course is beautiful and our 60,000-sf casino, more than 5 acres best to make it happen.” guests really appreciated the venue.” of poolside spaces, multiple dining While the casino was not part of As for meals, the group used a cou- venues from some of the nation’s hot- the meeting, Orozco says, “The casino ple of different options for dinners: test restaurateurs and 110,000-plus itself and the new pools were an added Journey’s End, one of the resorts many sf of ‘re-inspired’ meeting, event and bonus to attract our customers.” dining venues, as well as one of the con- convention space. She did have some concerns that ference halls. “The food was absolutely not all customers would like meeting amazing,” Orozco says. “Everything was SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE in a casino venue. “We made sure that superb and we received a lot of compli- With an office in Temecula, Cali- everyone knew that Pechanga is not ments on the quality of the food.”

20 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com If there’s any downside, it’s that Pechanga is increasingly growing in popularity. “Plan ahead,” Orozco advises, “because the word is getting out about how great Pechanga is for an event. It is a go-to destination for sure.” Orozco and Southwest Traders Inc. were so pleased with the meeting this year that they’ve already selected Pechanga Resort Casino for next year’s show. ISLAND FLAVOR Far to the east, the Bahamas also offer resorts featuring casinos along with a slew of other amenities, not the least of which is the balmy, blue ocean teeming with marine life. Atlan- tis, Paradise Island is one of them. Attendees of an event for Business Incentives Worldwide took advantage of The luxurious complex boasts: 3,400 the oceanfront atmosphere at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in the Bahamas. rooms across five distinct properties; the largest casino in the Bahamas; a 30,000-sf spa; a 141-acre water park; all-suite accommodations at The Reef “As we were planning the event, the world’s largest, open-air marine property were refreshed. the quality of lodging had to be suit- habitat with more than 50,000 Across the bridge in Nassau able for our attendees,” Baumann aquatic animals representing more proper, Baha Mar is another increas- says. “Grand Hyatt Baha Mar’s high- than 250 marine species; and more ingly popular choice for meetings and end resort feel was aligned with what than 100 marine biologists ready to conventions. Norma Baumann, senior we were looking for. The convention guide guests into the wonder of ocean account manager with Business Incen- center’s meeting space is incredible life with hands-on experiences at Dol- tives Worldwide, brought a group of as there’s a lot to work with, and we phin Cay. Atlantis’ Conference Center executives there this past summer. appreciated how central it was to other encompasses 200,000 sf of indoor “We loved that the destination is venues and resort amenities.” meeting spaces, including the Imperial one-of-a-kind, and that its relaxing With nearly 1,800 in attendance, Ballroom, which has the capacity for atmosphere allows guests to take a the group required a large hotel and groups of up to 4,000. Additionally, step back and take it all in,” she says. the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is exactly there are 300,000 sf of outdoor event The group used the Baha Mar Conven- that. “Grand Hyatt Baha Mar had the space with multiple meeting facilities. tion, Arts & Entertainment Center for inventory to keep our entire group While Atlantis has made its mark, it meetings and Grand Hyatt Baha Mar together. We also knew that we wanted continues to evolve. Most recently, the as the base hotel. to embrace local culture and we appreciated that the Hyatt rooms have a Bahamian touch to them, in addition to being spacious and elegant.” The Convention, Arts & Entertain- ment Center creates a strong sense of place, not only in its island style, but also because it prominently features the artwork of Bahamian artists. “For our events, we used the convention center and conference space, which was an eight-minute walk from our guests’ rooms. The convention center provided adequate A/V, and Wi-Fi

Atlantis, Paradise Island in the Bahamas remains one of the top gaming resorts for planners and attendees.

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 21 throughout the property was strong attendees skewed younger,” she says. yoga.’ Yes, real flamingos practicing and reliable,” Baumann notes. “We There were some potential chal- yoga with attendees. were also pleased with the catering lenges to work through in terms of According to a representative capabilities — the presentation, tim- island infrastructure. “Over the course for the property, “The flamingos are ing and taste were fantastic. While of several site inspections, we realized actually ‘participating’ in the class we did not use the — as best as they can. hotel for décor, we “We loved that the destination The flow is led by an were satisfied with all is one-of-a-kind and that its instructor who is very elements of the con- comfortable with the vention center and relaxing atmosphere allows flamingos and under- planning process. We guests to take a step back stands that the birds were so impressed and take it all in.” are very ‘hands on.’ with how the staff The birds will get on worked to help deliver NORMA BAUMANN the towels, mats, hair Senior Account Manager an outstanding Presi- Business Incentives Worldwide and anything else they dent’s Club event.” can find. Their beaks Baumann espe- are like fingertips and cially appreciated the high level of ser- that the power goes out from time whenever there’s something new, vice. “The sales office provided excel- to time and could impact our group their curiosity takes over. They espe- lent support throughout the planning events and awards nights,” Baumann cially love the mats, because they play process,” she says, “specifically the says. ”The team decided to bring in into all of their senses. They love the director of group sales and the senior two additional generators to ensure sound from their feet on the mat, and sales manager. We understand that that the elaborate evenings would the texture seems to be fun to them.” the process takes a village and their run seamlessly.” Alas, there may not be many desti- willingness to listen helped quell our For Baumann, it really is all about nations offering ‘flamingo yoga,’ how- worries for the event. While on prop- teamwork. To planners thinking about ever, there are a ton of destinations erty, we always had one direct, on-site meeting at Baha Mar — or anywhere and resorts that provide excellent contact, who proved to be absolutely for that matter — she advises, “Com- meeting options in addition to top- great. He was incredibly responsive, municate your expectations immedi- level gaming opportunities. The two and truly understood our program ately. As we are all working toward are definitely not mutually exclusive. and what we were trying to achieve.” the same goal, it’s imperative to work Like other planners who set meet- side-by-side as a team to accomplish MORE RESORTS ings in casino resorts, Baumann didn’t our joint vision.” TO CONSIDER necessarily consider the casino a fac- Planners should also know this Planners who have not visited tor in choosing the hotel and destina- about Grand Hyatt Baha Mar: It may MGM Resorts lately will find much tion. “But the gaming aspect was an be the only property where you can that’s new. Last year, ARIA Resort & added value to our guests’ stay as our introduce your attendees to ‘flamingo Casino Convention Center underwent a $165 million expansion resulting in an additional 200,000 sf of technologically advanced, flexible space within four stories. Highlights include a dramatic glass-enclosed venue and striking indoor/open-air spaces. The MGM Grand Conference center underwent a $130 million expansion late last year that added 250,000 sf and included an expansion of the resorts’ Stay Well Meetings. Of interest to association executive boards is the new, 77,000-sf conference space at Park MGM, which includes Madison Meeting Center and Ide-

Talking Stick Resort offers attendees gaming, fine dining, golf, a spa and three pools.

22 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com ation Studio, the first executive meet- for its casino and luxurious accommo- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa and ing center in Las Vegas specifically dations. The casino has more than 50 Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino designed to meet the needs of small table games, 800 slot machines and Hollywood. In Hollywood, the expan- groups. Large groups have the Park hosts daily poker tournaments. Attend- sion includes a 638-room guitar tower. Theater, which accommodates up ees can visit Topgolf at Riverwalk right There’s also a new, 13.5-acre pool expe- to 5,200. The expansion was com- across the street, or play a few rounds at rience, expanded casino and spa and pleted late last year. Talking Stick Golf Club’s two courses. a new Hard Rock Live. In Tampa, the When the much-anticipated Groups that love meeting in Flor- expansion features a 14-story tower CAESARS FORUM opens next spring, ida in the winter months are in luck as with 562 guest rooms, three new pools it will already have significant bookings. two properties should be on planners’ and an expanded casino, plus the Hard Caesars Entertainment says it has radars. A combined $2.2 billion project Rock Event Center with its 17,000-sf now secured more than $300 million includes expansions of the Seminole ballroom among other spaces. C&IT in business for the new 550,000- sf facility. Industry powerhouses MPI, Cvent, Conference Direct and HelmsBriscoe all have selected the space for upcoming annual meetings. Of course, Las Vegas doesn’t have YOUR BIG a lock on desirable gaming resorts. Atlantic City is the gaming go-to on EVENT the East Coast, and plenty has been happening there as well. Last year, Revel re-opened as Ocean Casino NEEDS A Resort with 1,299 guest rooms, an expansive spa, 160,000 sf of event BIG TIME space and a Topgolf Swing Suite. After a $500 million investment, Hard Rock VENUE International completely transformed Here it is. Talking Stick Resort. The the former Taj Mahal Casino, reopen- one place capable of exceeding ing it last year as a Hard Rock Hotel & expectations for your next event. Casino Atlantic City. 113,000 square feet of flexible Resorts Casino Hotel has expanded meeting space the Margaritaville LandShark Bar & State-of-the-art audio/ visual Grill on the boardwalk with Fins Bar, capabilities a year-round beach bar experience. Catering for up to 2,000 attendees Live entertainment, an expanded Award-winning accommodations bar and a 2,300-sf boardwalk deck for your guests are among its highlights. Tropicana Luxurious open-air spa purchased The Chelsea Hotel, bring- World-class golf course ing its room total to 2,730. The new Chelsea Tower at Tropicana Atlantic City includes the newly reopened Sea Spa, and for groups holding rooms in both properties, they’re conveniently linked via skybridge. Finally, Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City’s Coastal Tower is in the midst a $56 million upgrade, various infrastructure projects continue, the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall underwent a $10 million renovation and the city has approved a micro-brewery/axe- SCOTTSDALE | 877.724.4687 throwing facility scheduled to debut later this year. TALKINGSTICKRESORT.COM

In Scottsdale, Arizona, Talking Locally owned and caringly operated by the Stick Resort offers 113,000 sf of flex- Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. ible meeting space and gets high marks

TheMeetingMagazines.com21136-2_TSR_Corp_Incentive_Trvl_4-625x7-375.indd | Corporate 1 & Incentive Travel | November 201910/8/19 23 12:54 PM

JOB #: 21136-2_TSR_Corp_Incentive_Trvl_4-625x7-375 · Client: Talking Stick Resort · Agency: RIESTER Trim: 4.625" x 7.375" · Bleed: N/A · Live: N/A · Color: 4-Color · Pub: Corporate and Incentive Travel Due Date: 10/09/19 · Insertion Date: 11/01/19 · Contact: Bill Robbins · [email protected] INDUSTRY TRENDS // By Every Measure, Face-to-Face Meetings Beat Virtual Meetings

THE IMPORTANCE OF FACE TIME

DepositPhotos.com

24 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com By Every Measure, Face-to-Face Meetings Beat Virtual Meetings

BY DEREK REVERON

hroughout the history of organizations. The bottom line: It’s created and enhanced.” meeting planning, attend- not about which meetings are best for “If business results are a product ees have traveled to gather in face-to-face, but rather can you afford of relationships, then results follow,” T one destination. not to meet in person?” Axtell adds. “Candid conversations However, in recent years, advanc- Surveys generally show that are tied to trust and safety, which are ing technology, the rising cost of air attendees almost always prefer meet- hard to obtain unless a relationship is travel and the need to use time more ing face-to-face to meeting virtually. first established.” efficiently have prompted some plan- “Face-to-face meetings in our Axtell adds that, while in-person ners and stakeholders to hold more experience, as measured by CWT, meetings may be more expensive than virtual meetings. have a 90% preference,” Ballin says. technologically enabled versions, in- Meeting via video conferencing, “Stronger relationship building, less person meetings are more cost-effec- web conferencing, Skype, FaceTime distraction and better decision mak- tive in the long run. teleconferencing and by other virtual ing are the top reasons for such a Ballin agrees. “In almost all cases, means are becoming more common strong preference.” an in-person meeting will pay signifi- because technological meetings are Ballin adds: “In-person meet- cant dividends in sales growth com- relatively inexpensive, convenient and ings create emotional connections pared to meeting cost,” Ballin says. easy to organize. to peers, products and corporate And, adds Ballin, planners Planners typically can show that face- use virtual meetings as to-face meetings are an add-on to in-person “The bottom line is, it’s not more cost effective. meetings for certain about which meetings are “There is a myth in groups and purposes. best for face-to-face, but the meetings community Indeed, virtual meetings that ROI is difficult to are sometimes necessary rather can you afford not measure,” Ballin says. “I depending on a planner’s to meet in person?” would submit that for the needs and goals. purpose of sales kickoffs, Virtual meetings, like BEAU BALLIN product launches and Vice President, Commercial those held in person, Leader, North America user conferences, that it’s can allow participants to CWT Meetings & Events quite easy to measure the share content and ideas, cost per attendee against make presentations and incremental sales growth review documents. But virtual meet- visions. While virtual opportunities following three months, six months, ings won’t ever replace face-to-face continue to emerge, they lack the nine months and 12 months from meetings because they best help plan- connectivity amongst attendees and the meeting date.” ners meet all their goals. the memory recall driven by experi- Axtell says that the financial Beau Ballin, vice president, com- ence and emotion.” benefits of in-person meetings mercial leader, North America, CWT Paul Axtell, author of the book stem from the ability to better align Meetings & Events, explains why in- “Meetings Matter” and corporate goals and strategies. person meetings are best. trainer and consultant at Contextual “People need to be heard before they Program Designs, specializing in how will align with each other,” Axtell says. MEETING WITH A PURPOSE to run productive and effective corpo- “Aligning requires eye contact, non-ver- “Every meeting has a purpose,” rate meetings, agrees. bal clues, attention and empathy. These Ballin says. “Most fall into the cat- “Face-to-face meetings will rarely happen except when people meet egories of engaging attendees to sell always be important because they in small groups in the same location.” more, buy more or learn more. Ulti- are best at helping planners get Face-to-face meetings also prosper mately, these meetings drive bottom- results,” Axtell says. “Face-to-face because people have an innate need line profitability for their sponsoring meetings allow relationships to be to see each other in order to cement

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 25 Shelby Soblick important business and social rela- Amberlee Huggins, DMCP, of CSI DMC, says in-person meetings are crucial tionships. Meeting in person makes it for networking. Pictured, employees from CSI DMC offices nationwide met easier to make an impression and build for their All Hands Meeting 2019 held in Hollywood, Florida. a personal business ‘brand’ based on conduct, speech, intelligence, etc. “We expect that technology will According to Amberlee Huggins, continue to make an impact on the FACING BUDGET DMCP, president and chief marketing overall end-to-end management of CONCERNS officer at CSI DMC, “People are social the delivery of meetings and events, The CWT report also notes that beings, and while social media pro- and on the attendee experience per- planners continue to juggle face-to- vides an outlet to engage virtually, face- spective,” according to the Ameri- face meetings and budget concerns. to-face connection is at the core of how can Express report. “Budget restrictions were the most we experience each other in a holistic The report adds, “Modern attend- commonly cited hurdle, with nearly way. Networking in person allows us to ees expect an online experience will two in five respondents saying this had build trust and empathy and an oppor- be available to enhance their face- prevented them from meeting face-to- tunity to bond over a shared moment.” to-face experience and are eager to face,” according to the report. “Institut- Huggins adds that in-person meet- deploy technologies that facilitate ing a travel freeze towards the end of the ings provide a multitude of ordinary personal event attendance goals, such year is an annual ritual at many compa- ways for attendees to meet and bond. as networking and interacting more nies. It’s frequently used as a relatively “At its simplest level, take having deeply with content.” painless mechanism to save money.” a meal together, how it feels to share Ballin agrees with the American Despite budget issues, surveys and food flavors and talk about it with Express report. “In-person meetings studies show that in-person meetings those around you,” Huggins says. are in fact most effective when followed are better at fostering engagement, “Over and again it’s been proven that by virtual or remote meetings to rein- trust, networking brainstorming and team-building activities or give-back force key learnings, conduct knowl- strategic thinking. projects yield far greater results and edge checks or reach those unable to Research shows that all genera- a sense of unity when people gather attend in person,” Ballin says. tions, including millennials and Gen together in a single place.” Ironically, face-to-face meetings Xers, prefer in-person meetings Technology will increasingly grow more important as the world because they provide many ways for enhance, not replace, face- becomes more virtually intercon- attendees to have the formal and to-face meetings. nected. That’s a big reason why in- casual interactions necessary to forge According to the American Express person meetings are on the rise even business relationships. 2018 Global Meetings and Events as planners selectively use technology- Attendees also prefer face-to-face Forecast, “Regional meeting lead- enable meetings. meetings because they are considers across regions agree that bring- According to last year’s CWT Meet- ered more credible. ing people together virtually may be ings & Events Future Trends report, The expectations and returns helpful for smaller meetings or to corporations are having more meet- are higher with in-person meetings complement a live, face-to-face meetings due to the strong economy. In because, more often than not, there is ing, but virtual meetings will not addition, according to the survey, 92 a deeper investment of both time and replace face-to-face.” percent of planners think face-to-face money, two very valuable commodi- However, technology will con- meetings have intangible benefits that ties for planners. tinue to complement and transform outweigh any savings through long- Here are some other crucial advan- meetings and events. distance meetings. tages of face-to-face meetings:

26 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com • In-person meetings provide some Without such distractions, it’s in the past, and they will likely return flexibility if an issue occurs that easier for planners to drive attendee a blank stare,” Ballin says. Conversely, threatens the agenda. “Have attentiveness and participation during ask them about what they did, who you ever presented to a new cli- sessions, breakouts and workshops. they saw and about their time at a ent online only to lose the inter- Being in the same room also encour- national sales meeting, and they will net connection?” Huggins says. ages attendees to participate and get likely fill the air with conversation.” “The recovery is not always to the point when they talk. Shared in-person memories are easy. In person, with also more effective than worst-case scenar- remote meetings for cre- ios, you can switch “Remote communications ating trust and personal gears and improvise can be lengthier, lead to connections essential for if you need to.” missed opportunities, and following up and getting • Face-to-face meetings results from business leads. are more likely to get therefore become costlier According to Huggins, positive feedback from in the long run.” “For driving business out- participants. Says comes, meeting face-to- Axtell, “If the meeting AMBERLEE HUGGINS, DMCP face is often key to build- President, Chief Marketing Officer goes well, planners get CSI DMC ing rapport, especially in high marks. If attend- the formative stages of the ees feel like nothing relationship. The ability to was accomplished, low marks. According to Axtell, “Attention read each other’s body language, cor- One thing that attendees remem- is a primary advantage because it is rect course and troubleshoot ideas and ber is when they really click with tightly associated with caring, con- outcomes in the moment are often someone and that rarely occurs necting and self- expression. Other- better served in person.” outside of face-to-face meetings.” wise, the conversations feel merely Huggins agrees. “Face-to-face like transactions.” FACE-TO-FACE meetings are more likely to get both It’s also easier for on-site meetings MEETINGS VERSUS positive and negative feedback from to create common experiences that are VIRTUAL MEETINGS attendees in my experience, and both more memorable and impactful than Ballin notes some other pluses are important for improvement,” Hug- those in virtual meetings. of in-person meetings compared to gins says. “If attendees find value in According to Ballin, “In-person virtual versions. the investment, the likelihood of posi- meetings have a way of delivering “Additional advantages of face-to- tive feedback increases. Conversely, if information through experiences face meetings include access to key attendees don’t find merit, they very which are personal and meaning- executives or business stakeholders quickly become critics.” ful. The emotion, experience and the that are often difficult to come by for One of the biggest advantages in- corresponding memory recall simply most employees,” Ballin says. “The person meetings provide is the oppor- can’t be replicated with today’s tech- ability for stakeholders, decision mak- tunity to read non-verbal communi- nology in a virtual environment.” ers or regional leaders to gather in a cation which, according to research, That’s because memory is driven common place often allows for deci- accounts for most of what attendees by emotional cues, Ballin adds. sions and timely decision-making.” really intend to say. Virtual meetings “Ask someone what they did, who In addition, Ballin says, “In-per- don’t allow attendees to read crucial they saw or about their day some time son meetings allow for more complex body language, inflections and tone to determine true intentions. It’s also easier to control distractions and multitasking during face- to-face meetings. Sure, attendees in meeting rooms may check their mobile devices periodically. However, long- distance meeting participants can mute audio, listen to music, type and view documents on a laptop and more.

Virtual meetings are sometimes necessary depending on needs and goals. DepositPhotos.com

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 27 thinking as technology-enabled meet- technology is present at the meeting in core reasons we continue to retain and ings are often disrupted by multi- ways that take away from conversations. grow talent,” Huggins notes. tasking or competing priorities both Intimacy requires physical presence. People typically attend face-to-face personal and professional.” The question is whether attendees leave meetings because they want to con- Here’s another key advantage of feeling they were self-expressed, heard nect with others and are receptive to on-site meetings: Research shows and their presence acknowledged.” it. Although many people attend alone, that attendees remember much more While face-to-face meetings may they are primed to establish new rela- of what they experience, see and be more expensive than the virtual tionships with other professionals. hear in person. More importantly, variety, they continue to be well However, even with attendees’ pre- attendees are more apt to remem- worth the investment. disposition to network and learn at ber face-to-face meetings and how According to Huggins, “Cost needs meetings, they must be well-planned events made them feel. to be viewed in a short- and long-term and structured to reap the advantages Says Huggins, “I do feel that position. Let’s talk about an organiza- of face-to-face contact. attendees remember how the expe- tion that is growing. The cost of bring- Huggins offers the following advice rience and meeting made them feel, ing a group of people together to work to maximize the advantages of face- how they could engage, how they through new information, find chal- to-face meetings: could make an impact, what they did, lenges and solutions, bond in shared “Look at the goals of the meeting where they laughed, what before deciding whether it moved them and, hopefully, should be in person or vir- the results. That experience “The question is whether tual,” Huggins says. “I do and interaction can best be attendees leave feeling think there will always be done in person while follow they were self-expressed, certain meetings, with cer- up and further connection is heard, and their presence tain goals, where physical possible remotely.” acknowledged.” synergy and face-to-face Studies and surveys interaction and bonding back up the advantages of PAUL AXTELL will yield better results.” on-site meetings for emo- Corporate Trainer, Consultant In addition, planners tional engagement. at Contextual Program Designs and and meeting stakeholders Author of “Meetings Matter” • According to a poll by should ask the following Eventbrite, 69% of millen- question, Huggins says: nials say live events make them feel outcomes and experience is often “Is it important to get an agree- more connected to others. less expensive long term than losing ment from attendees to move forward • According to a Meetings Mean attendees because you didn’t take with a critical business decision? If so, Business Coalition report, 91% of busi- the opportunity to connect them to a giving attendees a tangible, human ness leaders think face-to-face meet- sense of unity and fellowship.” element of interaction can add a level ings improve engagement, and 94% Huggins adds, “Meeting face- of comfort and ease when moving into say that they advance collaboration. to-face with clients better affords uncharted waters.” • The Harvard Business Review attendees the opportunity to learn In-person meetings are best at net- found that in-person meetings are and understand their individual working, creating business relation- 34 times more likely to get positive needs and challenges and offer ships, education and training for a responses than a virtual meeting. thoughtful and cost-effective solu- range of meeting types. These include • According to a study from Oxford tions. Remote communications can sales meetings, product launches, cus- Economics USA, organizations that be lengthier, lead to missed opportu- tomer events and medical meetings. cut business travel such as face-to- nities, and therefore become costlier That is likely to remain the case face meetings experience a 17% drop in the long run.” even as virtual meeting technology in profits during the first year follow- Ideally, says Huggins, virtual meet- advances. Although it’s becoming ing the reduction. ings should only be used to connect easier to have virtual meetings, that • Oxford Economics also reported those who can’t attend on-site. doesn’t mean businesses should have that every dollar invested in busi- “At CSI DMC it costs a considerable them — something that former Apple ness travel resulted in $12.50 in sum to bring a team of 140-plus peo- Inc. president and technology guru incremental revenue. ple together each year, and certainly Steve Jobs realized. Given the comparative costs of face- we supplement some regional meet- Jobs once said, “There is a tempta- to-face meetings and virtual alterna- ings via video conferencing through- tion in our networked age to think that tives, an important question for plan- out the year,” Huggins says. ideas can be developed by email and ners is: Are attendees more likely to “However, we have learned that iChat. That’s crazy. Creativity comes value experiences of in-person meet- even once a year, face-to-face meet- from spontaneous meetings; from our ings? “Absolutely,” Axtell says, “unless ings for the whole team is one of the random discussions.” C&IT

28 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com

INDUSTRY TRENDS //

Global Master Chef Karl Guggenmos, senior culinary adviser at Healthy Meals Supreme.

Shanken Photography/Healthy Meals Supreme

30 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com Unique Food and Beverage Options Please Attendees and Keep Clients Coming Back for More

BY MAURA KELLER

s corporate and other tinues to broaden, there is a greater and drinks are served is almost as meeting and event expectation that events will accom- imperative as what you are serving. attendees become food modate all guests. Consider presenting items in mini savvy, crave variety, and “It’s no longer enough to just have stainless pails or baskets, using edible demand a wider range of a vegetarian meal as your alternative presentations such as a pastry spoon, flavors, unique food and option,” Samanian says. “More and baby red potato cups or a bacon slice, Abeverage options are now viewed as an more, we’re finding that attendees using lemon grass as buffet platters/ easy avenue to please attendees and are interested in plant-based options, centerpieces with different foods on keep clients coming back for more. even if they’re not vegan. Often times, skewers or laid right on the grass. Of course, food and beverage they’re motivated by the environmen- Or combine a comfort food duo like trends depend on the event being tal benefits of a plant-based diet.” grilled cheese and tomato soup as a held. Cuisine for a con- cocktail. For example, vention group is definitely a bloody mary with a much different than a “We have also seen a side of cheese, bread, corporate social event or trend to food being bacon, avocado or a shot a board meeting. a very thoughtful glass of warm tomato Kalsey Beach, presi- choice instead of just soup and a miniature dent and meeting planner grilled cheese, can cer- at Do Good Events, con- something that needs to tainly be memorable. tinues to see an evolution be provided.” Samanian and her toward ‘power foods’ that team love creating KALSEY BEACH increase attendee energy President and Meeting Planner experiences that enable and encourages produc- Do Good Events guests to connect and tivity and attention. “We engage with their food. have also seen a trend to Examples of this include food being a very thoughtful choice Indeed, Beach adds that there DIY chia seed pudding bars, cocktail instead of just something that needs is always discussion around food garnish bar stations and more. to be provided,” Beach says. allergens and preferences when “Whenever possible, we believe From interactive dinners to menu planning. It is important to in making dining as hands-on and large pop-ups, Cynthia Samanian, have a variety of options to accom- involved as possible,” Samanian founder and CEO of Hidden Rhythm, modate all needs and ensure they says. “With a small group, you have plans one-of-a-kind events that are are properly labeled for guests. “It is an advantage in creating a more per- designed to build meaningful brand especially helpful if the chef is pres- sonal experience that connects guests loyalty. Hidden Rhythm’s mission is ent during meal and snack times to with their food. We’ve found great simple: Spark engaging relationships answer any specific questions that success in hosting cooking classes that build loyalty between brands and may arise,” Beach says. or adding an educational element to their communities with one-of-a-kind the dinner that works well in a more events such as interactive dinners MEMORABLE intimate setting.” and pop-ups that showcase brands to FOOD EXPERIENCES Ashley Lampe, senior director influencers, media and more. Incorporating unique vessels or of catering sales for Wolfgang Puck From her event planning expe- presentation components when serv- Catering in Los Angeles, is seeing rience, Samanian says that as the ing food and beverages is paramount the trend of food as entertainment range of dietary preferences con- for many events. In fact, how the food continuing to gain in popularity and

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 31 Experts say attendees today want to engage and connect with their food.

As Jessica Tosto, assistant clinical professor – MS Nutrition and Dietetics College of Health Professions at Pace University, explains, “You can’t just put out trays of sandwiches and sodas and expect people to be happy they got a ‘free meal.’ I think attendees are much more vocal about how the foods served met or did not meet their expectations, and how it impacted their perception of the event as a whole. There are also so many different diet fads and/or Photo by Emma Feil health-related dietary restrictions that importance. Lampe is seeing requests predictable, such as chicken breast, people follow — it is very challenging for chef action stations, foods that spark steak, salmon steak, along with com- to please every different need.” conversations or are photo worthy, as fort side dishes like pasta and mashed Organic, local, sustainably sourced, well as foods that boast a local focus. potatoes,” he says. “Foods are now and farm-to-table foods are also gain- “Dietary restrictions, green ini- becoming more focused on a variety ing in popularity. When people travel tiatives — including eco-friendly, no of new and revived cooking methods to different locations they often want waste, plastic-free, refillable water bot- such as sous vide, braising and more to experience the foods that are native tles — also are prevalent,” Lampe says. ethnic diversity. Seafood has also to the city they are visiting. As Tosto According to Andrea Correale, celeb- become more diversified.” explains, incorporating regional menu rity caterer and president of Elegant Guggenmos is also now seeing items from local producers and pro- Affairs Caterers, Off-Premise Cater- more Asian vegetables, pulses such moting the source is a great way to sup- ing & Event Design, today’s meeting as lentils, chickpeas, split peas and port local businesses and also to help attendees are far more food attendees feel like they savvy. “They are expecting are getting an authentic, restaurant-quality cuisine “Farm to table, locally local dining experience. in a catered setting,” says sourced foods are “It is a lot of fun to Correale, who has pro- probably more suited create a snack menu that vided multileveled, luxe- highlights local farms,” catering to notables and for smaller groups as the Beach says. “Creat- brands like Billie Eilish, costs tend to be higher.” ing interesting signage Bebe Rexha, Mariah Carey, about the cheese or veg- Jimmy Fallon, Ralph Lau- JESSICA TOSTO etables, can make it a Assistant Clinical Professor – MS Nutrition ren and Jimmy Choo. and Dietetics, College of Health unique experience for Correale says that Professions at Pace University the guests. When the today’s meeting planners venue allows, it is also are all looking for healthy well received to highlight and fresh choices, including vegan, dried beans, and ancient grains such local shops — this might be a small gluten-free alternatives and plant- as bulgur wheat, quinoa and a vari- bakery that employees disadvantaged based foods. “Salad bars are popular, ety of meat cuts suitable for braising. youth or another form of supporting but over the top with elaborate selec- “Braised or slowly cooked and sous businesses with big impact.” tion and choices,” she says. “Event vide foods, such as ribs and chicken planners should consider exploring: thighs, are much more flavorful and FARE FOR GROUPS vegan sushi bars; California-style, moist. We are simply seeing a trend OF ALL SIZES open-pit barbecues; Impossible towards more flavors, textures and a Experts agree that while smaller Burger bars; and Korean food.” more exciting presentation,” he says. groups allow for more intimate touch Global Master Chef Karl Gug- There also seems to be a growing points, simply due to the nature of the genmos, senior culinary adviser at expectation that food at events is going size of the event, larger groups can Healthy Meals Supreme, agrees that to be high quality, nutritious, provide a provide a similar element as more food for meetings has been undergo- wide variety of selections, and be able to of a ‘showpiece.’ ing a number of changes: accommodate any special dietary need “Farm-to-table, locally sourced “Foods in the past have been very or restrictions an attendee may have. foods are probably more suited for

32 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com smaller groups as the costs ‘Build-your-own’ meals is tend to be higher and also a popular approach for local vendors may not be groups of all sizes. able to support the demand for large numbers of attend- groups of all sizes. “With so ees,” Tosto says. many dietary restrictions For smaller groups, Cor- it becomes very difficult to reale recommends a chef’s please a large number of tasting-plate menu and attendees,” Lambie says. for trend snacks consider “Build-your-own gives the edamame, vegetable and attendees the choice and herb tonics or pick-me-up control over what they are shots as well as acai bowls. eating and how healthy they Unique displays, such as want to eat. Healthier food doughnut walls and verti- options will not change. If cal buffets, are very popular anything, people are going now, as is the ‘grab-and-go’- to be getting smarter about style of service where items what they are putting into are served in individual their bodies and this trend portions in a bowl. will continue. The old days Daniel Gevirtz / HUNGRY The HUNGRY catering of attendees only being company offers a chef experience execute and tend to lose quality after given the choice of beef, fish or veg- for clients that is perfect for smaller being kept in hot boxes or reheated. etarian are gone and people will groups. As Chad Lambie, national “Braised, sous vide, roasted or continue to want control over what director of training and client experi- stewed foods are ideal,” Guggen- they are eating.” ence at HUNGRY explains, the chef mos says. “Grains and moisture- experience allows the guests to see retaining vegetables are also better SNACK ATTACK their food being made and learn about for large groups.” When it comes to breaks or refresh- each of the dishes. In addition, Samanian adds that ment services, today’s meeting plan- “There is a reason there are so cheeseboards and ‘grazing’ boards ners recognize that groups no longer many cooking shows on television are very popular for larger groups just want healthy foods as was the right now. People enjoy seeing the as they make it easy for guests to trend two years ago. While they are still chef prepare, interacting with the pick and choose what they’d like to requesting the high-energy items such chef, and learning about what makes eat. As a bonus, these boards are as hummus and vegetable shooters or the dish special,” Lambie says. visually beautiful, which inspires energy bars, they also seek a sweet- Guggenmos says the only issue for guests to take photos and share the and-naughty element such as truffle large versus small groups is the cook- board — and possibly the event — lollipops or chocolate-dipped pretzels. ing methods used. For example, short- on social media. For snacks between meals, Asian- order foods or dishes are not suitable Lambie also sees ‘build-your-own’ type foods such as tapas, tempuras, for large groups as they are difficult to meals as very popular right now for shawarma, as well as mini burgers,

Trendy Tastes Some of today’s hottest food and beverage trends include: • Global and ethnic foods • Sushi, sushi, sushi • South American wines • Craft and local micro beers • Flavored ice for drinks and alcohol-infused popsicles • Cupcakes and pies in creative presentations • Super foods that are high in minerals and DepositPhotos.com provide vitality and wellness benefits • Bacon in every way possible • Unique wheats and barleys • Spicy options, both sweet and savory • Allergy-free menus C&IT

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 33 Chefs now focus on presentation, once overlooked in importance.

mon occurrence. And processed food will hopefully be a thing of the past. In addition, the ‘small bites’ reception trends are still very popular and are expected to continue to be a sought-after trend in menu offerings. These ‘small bite’ options include min- imal portions presented in smaller, more interesting shaped vessels and can be paired with a signature cocktail, or local wine or beer selection for each food station. Wolfgang Puck Catering Lampe adds that classics and com- pickled vegetables/fruits, Keto bombs ments to the coffee bar.” fort foods have remained popular over and similar low-carb, low-sugar In fact, when it comes to drinks, the years and will remain so. “The snacks, are currently trending. today’s guests want to be entertained. influence of international cuisines “Low-carb brownies made with They don’t want the regular soda with the ability to explore will bring dried beans, avocado/no flour products. They want drinks such as variety and excitement to events,” and maple syrup are the newest lavender flavored soda water, cucum- Lampe says. “Local, sustainable and trend,” Guggenmos says. ber infused still water, a garnish such menu balance are here to stay.” In addition, healthy snacks that as muddled blueberries and mint or Industry professionals expect the meet all dietary restrictions are classic cocktails with a new twist. plant-based trend also will continue, being mixed in with the more deca- So what does the future hold for especially as more players in the space, dent options, such as a great trail food trends and to what should meet- such as Beyond Meat and Miyoko’s mix but also a delicious Creamery, become more brownie. A snack like popular. “The greater feta and watermelon is “There are more people trend will be towards sus- also very popular. today on specialized tainability, not only in the “We are seeing a lot diets than ever before, agricultural and food pro- more healthier options and healthier options duction space, but also as being served, that are it applies to food waste,” delicious,” Lambie says. allow more people to Samanian says. “Com- “There are more people enjoy the dishes.” panies such as Imperfect today on specialized CHAD LAMBIE Produce will continue to diets than ever before, National Director of Training grow in popularity as con- and healthier options and Client Experience sumers become increas- HUNGRY allow more people to ingly aware of issues in enjoy the dishes.” the food system.” As a meeting planner, Beach strives ing planners pay attention? Lambie says foods will always be to make the food and beverage found “Proteins will come more and more evolving and changing. “New chefs within the snack breaks more of an from non-animal sources. Side dishes bring new ideas and it sparks innova- experience for the attendee such as a will feature a variety of new ingredi- tion and creativity,” he says. “I think we build-your-own trail mix bar. ents, such as ancient grains and new will always have our ‘classics’ that peo- “Consider energizing snacks that sources for sweeteners,” Guggenmos ple grow up with and love, but we will encourage mindfulness and produc- says. There will certainly always a keep adding new ideas that expand our tivity,” Beach says. “You can also swing back to the past. Comfort food pallets. We are seeing so many talented incorporate branding into the snack such a macaroni and cheese, mashed chefs from around the world that are moment. Consider having sponsors potatoes and pasta will always be bringing family recipes and new dishes support a snack break and then brand- around. However, they will be made from their home countries. Specifically, ing the napkins or coffee cups with from a healthier source. countries that have not been in the their logo. And elevate your water or Guggenmos says we will also see forefront of cuisine. I think people are coffee. Consider making the water a lot more pulses. Bone broth, colla- much more open to trying new foods station a hydro station with infused gen, more exotic fruits, vegetables and than ever before and they are going to waters and adding gourmet enhance- greens, especially kale, will be a com- discover they are delicious.” C&IT

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36 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com What Is Capable Leadership and Why Does It Matter?

Successful Planners Offer Tips on How to Lead a Team

BY PATRICK SIMMS

nlike the high-profile California-based SAGE Publishing, would never do that to somebody,’” CEO, the head of a com- relates how she grew into her present recalls Sharon L. Schenk, CMP, pany’s meetings depart- role: “Without question, my personal director of conventions and event ment often remains growth as a leader was a building management with Manchester, New ‘behind the scenes,’ process. It resulted directly from my Hampshire-based CCA Global Part- and only impacts great personal satisfaction in meticulously ners. If she had a positive experi- Unumbers of employees and clients working through event details behind ence, she would “Remember that if through the events he or she oversees. the scenes, coupled with visible, tan- I’m ever in a position of leadership, Yet, to the meetings department and gible, positive results. By conceiving, I will recognize people’s skills and supporting teams of vendors, that designing, planning, orchestrating appreciate their contributions to try individual is quite visible. Indeed, and ultimately implementing success- to get them to grow in their careers. the meetings director or manager ful events, my confidence increased.” That’s something that some people is relied upon to keep many team A self-described “former introvert,” have done for me.” members with diverse skills mov- Graham credits her supervisors and Importantly, a planner need not ing forward toward the delivery of a mentors for offering her “the chance wait until he or she is in a formal successful event. Leader- leadership role to begin ship skills thus become exercising the relevant increasingly vital the “Situations might come skills. Leadership happens higher one ascends in the up where if we stay on smaller scales in one’s planning profession. corporate life — leading But great leader- calm and handle things, a two-person team on a ship is not an exact sci- we can keep our client project — as well as in one’s ence. Effective leaders calmer as well.” personal life — leading a exhibit a variety of skills church group. “There is a and qualities in different TERI ABRAM distinction between a lead- measures, making for dif- President ership role and leadership. ferent leadership styles. EventLink I think we’re all leaders, Certainly, much learning and developing our leader- and experience is involved ship skills can happen no in acquiring these skills and quali- to get up at bat” and demonstrate matter where we are within a hierar- ties, even if one considers oneself a what she could do as the leader of the chy of an organization,” explains Jes- ‘natural leader’ who has always been events team. “Their belief in me was sie States, CMP, CMM, director, MPI comfortable being in charge. Most inspirational, but so too were their Academy. States, who oversees MPI’s fundamentally, one has to gain con- own exceptional executive and lead- Women in Leadership Certificate fidence in one’s ability to lead, a fac- ership skills,” she adds. Program, advises planners to take tor that was part of Dana Graham’s On the flip side, a planner can stock in their leadership skills. “Look evolution as a leader. Graham, who also learn what not to do from expe- at where you want to go with your holds a CMM and serves as associate riences with higher-ups. “When I had career and then look at your current director, corporate events & commu- leaders and supervisors treat me a skills and where there might be gaps. nity relations with Thousand Oaks, certain way, I would say to myself, ‘I You don’t want to enter a leadership

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 37 Teri Abram, center, with Julie Boggs, left, and Shannon Guggenheim, two members of Abram’s team. Abram, president of Dallas, Texas-based EventLink, says it’s important that a leader also be part of the team.

virtual meeting will prove less successful than the face-to-face version, and so on. This quality — a willingness to take risks — tends to need development among meeting professionals, States observes. “We’re not necessarily an industry of first adopters. When you’re planning meetings, it’s crucial to have everything buttoned up — and Alex Olivia you want to have the perfect experi- role unprepared, so look at where you charge of ordering the flowers, but ence. And that means sometimes risks want to go and map out what skills are instead I handled it with class and aren’t taken,” she explains. “We’re going to get you to that point.” grace. Me getting upset wasn’t going rather risk-averse. And so oftentimes To provide a starting point for to make the flowers appear.” meeting professionals need to prac- that self-reflection, the following Not only does this quality influence tice risk taking.” is an overview of some of the myr- and maintain good relations with staff, iad qualities and skills that go into but it also puts clients at ease. “Situa- Accepting Responsibility: When capable leadership. tions might come up where if we stay things don’t go right due to a team calm and handle things, we can keep member’s negligence or incompe- LEADERSHIP QUALITIES our client calmer as well,” says Teri tence, great leaders are willing to ‘step Grace Under Pressure: Planners at Abram, president of Plano, Texas- up to the plate’ and take responsibil- all levels need the ability to handle the based EventLink. “Clients get very ity when addressing their internal or pressure of delivering a live external client. “I give event, but it is especially my team all the praise important for leaders to “I think we’re all leaders, they can be given, and exhibit a ‘cool head’ when and developing our if there is a problem or deadlines loom or things go leadership skills can something went wrong amiss. Their grace under happen no matter where I am as responsible as pressure will influence anyone else on the team, other team members in we are within a hierarchy and I am willing to say such situations, and will of an organization.” to the client, ‘We made facilitate quick, rational a mistake, I am respon- decision-making. “I think JESSIE STATES, CMP, CMM sible,’” says Abram, who it’s easier to ‘never let Director, MPI Academy oversees about 10 staff them see you sweat’ if you members and a variety can make quick decisions, of contractors. especially when you are caught off nervous, and I can understand that Yet, this overarching responsibil- guard,” Graham says. “For instance, because you’re out front and center ity should be accepted because one is when an award show honoree showed at an event and you want everything the team leader, not because one feels up late with 24 extra guests in tow, I to go perfectly.” a sense of ownership of the event. No said, ‘Give me a minute’ and sprang matter how high on the corporate lad- into action.” In another case, flowers Willingness to Take Risks: der the planner is, he or she should weren’t delivered as expected, and Whether it’s a new type of team-build- keep the right perspective on whose Graham led her on-site staff in ing activity or a first foray into virtual meeting it is. “I don’t think of it as carrying out a backup plan: “The meetings, the head of the meetings my event; rather, I produce the event catering staff and I went around with team is often the one to drive a change for the stakeholder,” Graham says. “I scissors and cut lavender from the that may improve meetings operations don’t personalize it, which I think is bushes and put it down the middle or ROI. The key word is ‘may.’ There key, because that way I don’t have an of the table. There was no need to is the risk that the new ways of team ego about it. Having an ego doesn’t get mad at my colleague who was in building won’t engage attendees, the really help you in my position.”

38 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com LEADERSHIP SKILLS out to the presidents and said, ‘We body, whether it’s internal or exter- Assembling a Capable Team: Hir- need direction from you. Let’s assign nal, you’re hiring them for their skills. ing great team members, whether staff people to carry out these tasks. Let’s So what you don’t want to do is hire or contractors, paves the way for suc- stop the false rumors and start a somebody and then tell them how to cessful leadership. The more capable dialogue.’ The discussion needed to do their job,” Schenk says. “I can lead the team is, the easier it is to manage start, so I initiated it.” and direct them in things that I need; them, and the less management they Abram also ensures there are however, how they get the job done will need, in fact. “I need someone open lines of communication among is their concern.” who’s creative, innovative, enthusias- her staff, and that helps in prevent- At the same time, a great leader tic, takes direction well and can work ing or resolving conflicts. “We have doesn’t just delegate and then remain independently,” Graham says in sum- a policy as a small company that we on a pedestal. He or she will be marizing her ideal staff member. don’t talk about one another if we involved to some degree in the proj- Arguably, ‘enthusiasm’ is the have a problem. You go straight to the ects that team members are carrying most fundamental trait. “So many other person, or you come and talk to out, even if just as a source of general different types of people bring so me about it,” she says. “It has been direction and feedback. This gives many different types of skills, and so successful. We talk about it when staff a sense that the leader is also a so what we try to do is find people we first hire someone and say ‘This is team member. “I want them to respect that have the right mindset, the right our philosophy.’” my leadership, because I’m a part of attitude — serving clients is in their DNA,” Abram says. “And then we train from there.” Along the same lines, Schenk explains that “You can teach many things, but what you can’t teach is attitude and personality. So if you have someone on your team who has the right attitude and the right fit, you can teach them any skill. I’ve been very lucky that I have people with a wonderful attitude, and we’ve been able to grow them professionally.”

Facilitating Communication: The importance of effectively communicating with team members is a platitude in the leadership lit- erature. Without clearly explaining Helene Glassman the details of a project and defining Graham, with SAGE president and CEO Blaise Simqu, credits her mentors and expectations, it’s unlikely the team supervisors for offering her a chance to demonstrate her leadership abilities. will perform optimally. Somewhat less discussed is the importance of facilitating communication; ensur- Delegating Tasks: Along with risk that team,” Abram says. “I’m not just ing team members communicate taking, States identifies delegation as telling them what to do and going off adequately with each other and the area where the meeting profes- and doing my own thing.” with other stakeholders. As Schenk sionals likely struggle the most when explains, her leadership role includes it comes to leading a team. That’s Motivating Team Members: serving as the “conduit for different because planners often have a back- Effective leaders have always been teams.” Making sure everyone is on ground of being very hands on and sources of encouragement, and strive the same page is “almost a full-time personally involved in all the details to elevate their team’s morale. Words job for me,” she says. “For example, I of a project. In a leadership position, can always be backed up by tangible recently sent an email out to three of they must let go of that approach to morale boosters. “I do try to show our presidents because we’re chang- some extent and trust in the abilities appreciation regularly with gifts and ing the format of our convention next of their team members. Delegation dinners to recognize work that has summer, and there are all these side can be a hard skill to learn, and there been done,” Schenk says. conversations going on. ‘We may be is always the temptation to microman- Part of motivation is also delegat- doing this, we may be doing that.’ age once one has delegated. “I truly ing tasks that help someone grow in So I took it upon myself to reach believe that when you’re hiring some- their role, so the individual doesn’t

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 39 Jessie States, CMP, CMM, director, MPI Academy, says to develop into a leader, do a skills assessment and work to fill in the gaps.

skills, such as strategic problem solving, innovation or creativity, are ones people may or may not innately have, but they’re all skills that can be learned.” Toward developing the leadership skills a given individual needs, the program utilizes tools such as CliftonStrengths at www.gallupstrengthscenter.com, to assess where participants’ strengths lie. For those who prefer reading their way to becoming better leaders as well as careerists, Graham recommends three titles: “Good to Great,” by Jim Collins; “Grit,” by Angela Duckworth; and “Basic Black,” by Cathie Black.

THE BEST PART OF BEING A LEADER With all the challenges involved in feel stagnant. “We have a fairly new RESOURCES becoming a great leader and then actu- hire and she’s come on so strong; Developing these qualities and ally guiding a team on its way to suc- she’s better than we ever thought skills as well as others may not be easy, cess, what’s the payoff? “The best part she would be at this point,” Abram depending on the person. Some are is watching my team work together and says. “And so we’re starting to get naturally risk-averse, or have a hard achieve amazing results and being so her more small programs and guide time not micromanaging, or find it dif- proud of them,” Abram says. “I love it her through them. I’m boosting her ficult to criticize another’s performance, when my team knocks it out of the ball- confidence because she has the ability for example. But thankfully there is no park.” From a career perspective, head- to do everything at this point. I talk shortage of resources for leadership ing an events department can allow one with her before a client call and let development, and plenty of meetings- to directly collaborate with the C-suite. her know how I would recommend specific resources. Graham highly rec- “One of the best parts about leadership she do it, for example.” ommends MPI’s Certificate in Meeting is having a seat at the table, being able to be the subject-matter Evaluating Perfor- expert with our execu- mance: The difficult “One of the best parts tives,” Schenk says. aspect of this skill is about leadership is having Toward gaining that learning how to con- a seat at the table, being seat, an aspiring leader structively criticize, and able to be the subject- should take advantage learning not to take a of any opportunity to tone of hostility when matter expert with our demonstrate to upper a team member has executives.” management that he dropped the ball. “It’s a or she understands the SHARON L. SCHENK, CMP tough thing for me per- Director of Conventions and Event Management strategic role of meet- sonally, but I feel that if CCA Global Partners ings in the company, I don’t tell them exactly and is not just immersed what they haven’t done in logistical details. appropriately and how it could be done Management Program, which she com- “Share with senior leaders how you better, I really am not doing them jus- pleted at Indiana University’s Kelley are utilizing meetings to truly drive tice,” Abram says. She describes her School of Business. For women plan- change and positive growth for the approach as “conversational,” where ners in particular, there is the afore- business,” States advises. They’ll see she engages the person in a dialogue mentioned Women in Leadership Cer- you’re thinking like a leader, and about the poor performance instead of tificate Program, also offered by MPI. perhaps like someone who deserves launching into a tirade. States emphasizes that “Many of the a promotion. C&IT

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DepositPhotos.com 42 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com Industry Experts Look Into the Future of Meetings and Tell Us What to Expect

BY CHRISTINE LOOMIS

hat will meetings requirements. Today, that feels like “Instagram has empowered clients look like in 2025? something extra planners must do. and others to lean into design trends What are the biggest In the future, events will make each that go beyond the typical corporate game changers and attendee feel included. We’ll move rinse and repeat. They’re all hyper- what new skills might beyond ‘Who is my audience?’ to aware of new developments in fash- meeting planners designing content that purposefully ion, food and play and are willing to Wneed? We asked experts from across includes voices not in the room.” take risks and translate those experi- the industry. Here’s what they said. According to Kristi White Cline, ences to their attendees,” she says. creative director with PRA Nashville, “Everyone can pull out their phones MEETINGS IN 2025 the rise in home-based employees will and instantly be a part of New York Marissa Torres, CMP, opera- impact meetings. “In the past, meet- Fashion Week, the live feeds of celeb- tions manager with COTC Events in ing goals, objectives and content have rity planners and elaborate brand South Florida, a Hosts Global mem- been devised to accommodate attend- launches. They know our secrets now. ber, believes tech’s impact on meet- ees that worked in an office with their Clients want us to put on our experi- ings will lessen. “Tech is reaching its team.” With more employees working ential marketing hats these days and I peak in the meetings industry and the from home, she says, that will change. feel like that will intensify leading up focus will be redirected as technology Didier Scaillet, CEO, SITE, in Chi- to 2025. I can’t tell you how many of becomes a basic requirement. I think cago, sees four major areas of change. my conference calls start off with, ‘… the redirection will be more So I saw this new thing ‘experiential’ ways of think- on Instagram … ’” ing and content will reflect “Attendees will have Jessie States, CMP, that — no more cookie-cutter more input and CMM, director of MPI session formats.” control over the Academy, in Dallas, Lauren Buffington, CMP, Texas, says information CIS, senior event producer planning of events.” will be delivered differ- with PRA South Florida, says, ently. “Lectures won’t “Attendees will have more LAUREN BUFFINGTON, CMP, CIS be in our vernacular. input and control over the Senior Event Producer They’re a dying knowl- PRA South Florida planning of events. The plan- edge-delivery format ner’s role will be responsive to that will finally no lon- the attendee’s wishes rather ger be considered a use- than determining meals, activities “A more holistic approach with inter- ful method for conveyance of applica- and even destinations from a corpo- action and engagement; more infor- ble and actionable learning. In their rate perspective. From marketing and mality, versatility and flexibility; place will be a burgeoning number creative design to the final execution, increased use of nontraditional ven- of thoughtfully designed and curated planners will have to consider every ues, meaning fewer hotel ballrooms educational experiences that encour- aspect of the event all while respond- and more art galleries, warehouses, age learners to practice and apply ing to attendees’ wants.” car parks and co-working spaces; and new knowledge and change behavior Diversity will be important says shorter sessions.” in positive ways.” Elizabeth Glau, CMP, director of Cline’s colleague, Amy Nathan- As meetings become more global, strategy at Oregon-based EGCX son, senior experience designer at States continues, there will be Group. “Most events will consider PRA Nashville, believes social media answers to language differences at all elements of diversity as basic such as Instagram will force changes. meetings as well. “Language will no

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 43 longer be a barrier to entry or engage- its function as a component to suc- to-face and render it ever more spe- ment for event participants. Artificial cessful events to a paramount role in cial and effective. Face-to-face may intelligence-based (AI) technologies achieving goals while simultaneously be less frequent, but infinitely more that already exist will experience providing a measurement of meeting desired,” he says. broad adoption. These will enable par- success. Attendees,” she says, “are For many, technology is the game ticipants to communicate freely and in expecting planners to integrate sus- changer as use of AI, virtual reality any language with each other via their tainable efforts into multiple facets (VR) and holograms ramps up. “Tech- own mobile devices and hearables.” of programming, from elimination of nology will be a large factor in how Environmentally friendly confer- printed materials and bottled water to meetings change,” says Heidi Steven- ences will be a hallmark of the future guarantees that florals are re-distrib- son, CIS, global sales manager with says Scott White, global sales direc- uted or donated to a worthy cause.” Utah-based Destinations, Inc. “There tor with PRA Inc. in Washington, Additionally, Patriquin says, will be more technological interaction D.C. “The ability to reduce our car- “Expectations will include incor- and interface with social media or net- bon footprint is paramount. Every- poration of interactive technology working sites such as LinkedIn.” thing will ‘go green.’ There will be no and modernization of event spaces New locations also will factor in. handouts, everything will be done in purpose-built to allow for flexibility “So many businesses are becoming advance, information during meetings and increased networking. Meet- more global,” Stevenson says. “I see will come via apps. Venues, food and ings will evolve to ensure there are meetings shifting to a more global food/waste,” he adds, “will need to be multilevel experiences to meet the focus, opening up many more loca- eco-friendly. Hiring the right partners diverse generations and expectations tions for meetings.” Madelyn Marusa, DMCP, CIS, vice president of industry relations for PRA Business Events in South- ern California, agrees. “There will be emerging destinations in second- and third-tier U.S. cities and more international choices.” Anne Marie Rogers, CIS, CITP, director of meetings, incentives and events for Direct Travel in Minne- apolis, Minnesota says, “Technology is improving every day and changing how we do business. Meetings are far more interactive now and more customized to the population.” Wellness, she adds, is also a future factor. “It affects everything from length of sessions to integra- tion of movement into meetings and healthy food options.” Experts agree that attendees will of modern attendees. Planners will There will be more use of flex- demand ‘experiences’ in the future. need to ensure they create opportu- ible meeting spaces and alternative nities of interaction for all — from furniture to make things interesting, to achieve a balance on going green the tech-savvy to the networking and she continues, and adds her voice to and successful planning will be key. social-media phobic.” the sustainability bandwagon. “What Companies that get in front of this will These issues are global. Padraic we do and how our behavior impacts have an advantage.” Gilligan, CIS, CITP, DMCP, chief mar- the world and future generations Another change says White: As keting officer at SITE and managing is of utmost importance and will 3D representations of hotels and partner at SoolNua in Dublin, Ireland, only get stronger.” destinations gain traction, site vis- believes online meetings will increase Rebecca Mass, team lead, customer its will decrease. “under pressure from the movement success at Bizzabo, an event software Hillary Patriquin, DMCP, direc- around climate change, and face-to- company in New York, New York, tor of operations with Hosts DC and face meetings will decrease. How- underscores the impact of technol- Hosts Baltimore, also emphasizes ever, face-to-face will be the preferred ogy. “The future of professional events sustainability. “The importance of default setting where key decisions will rely heavily on technologies such incorporating sustainability will mul- are made. Extra online connectivity as big data, analytics and AI to help tiply. We should expect a shift from will increase the appetite for face- create more personalized experiences

44 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com for attendees and ultimately drive key business outcomes. While incorporating technology into events isn’t new, the impact it has on attendee experience will be different.” For example, she says, “By using AI, organizers will see what content each attendee interacts with the most and can recommend sessions and future events based on that data. Technology will allow organizers to be more strategic. At Bizzabo, we raised $27 million after doubling our revenue last year. The new funds are being used to build capabilities in data science and AI, which will make it easier for event organizers to make data-driven decisions and further personalize attendees’ event experience.” In addition to answering the Amy Nathanson, of PRA Nashville, left, with colleague, Kristi Kline, says future planners will be forced to adapt to trends spotted on social media. demand for increased personalization and customization of experiences, Marusa says, technology will enhance tually enhanced décor/lighting ele- tive to a meeting, a potential cost sav- security with better background ments that change based on attendee ings,” he says. “AI, augmented reality checks and more personal informa- activity or input.” (AR) and VR are all increasing and will tion available on attendees. The key to future meetings will be be utilized more.” Technology will also drive creating ‘experiences,’ White says. Driverless buses? They’re coming, increased interactivity at meetings. “I “Things like 4D technology, increased too. “We’ll have to determine whether envision increased use of touch-screen car sharing and even hoverboard we want to use that technology,” technology, gathering in-the-moment transport will increase. Large motor Kun says. “I also think it’s likely that audience feedback or survey results, coaches will be less prevalent. Meet- space tourism will become a reality providing links or portals to more ings will more likely be handled with within five years.” information and allowing attendees hotels and venders via apps and online Kun says he’ll consider taking an to interact directly with incentive group on a presenters and fellow “Meetings will evolve to space trip, “When it’s attendees,” says Scott totally safe and totally Goss, experience designer ensure there are multilevel incentive worthy. These with PRA Events Inc., in experiences to meet the things carry risks even if Washington, D.C. “Imag- diverse generations and they’re cutting edge and ine presenters not having expectations of modern that, too, is a factor.” to select a raised hand attendees.” and pass the mic during a HOW MEETINGS session. Instead, perhaps, HILLARY PATRIQUIN, DMCP WILL STAY they’ll select a virtually Director of Operations THE SAME raised hand, allowing that Hosts DC and Hosts Baltimore “You can’t get away attendee to use the cam- from the key building era feature on a device blocks of what a good to project their name, face, company platforms. Few clients will need to meeting or education session is about,” information and a live stream directly access a central call center. Companies Kun says. “But, I think we’ll learn to be from their seat to the stage for ques- that show ease to streamline these more efficient and creative.” tions or comments.” new processes will be paramount.” Most of our experts agree that The industry will see more inven- George Kun, founder and presi- the goals and purposes of meet- tive event apps for presentations and dent, George Kun Travel & Incen- ings, including return on investment social gatherings, he says. “We’ll see tives, in Dublin, Ohio says the future (ROI), networking and education, more branded photo and gif apps, is already here. “The use of holograms won’t change. Attendees probably interaction with event entertainment will soon be commonplace. We’ll use won’t change either. They’ll still want — whether musical requests or vir- them to bring a celebrity or key execu- something fresh or out-of-the-box,

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 45 Rebecca Mass, of Bizzabo, in yellow shirt, says future meetings will rely heavily on AI, big data and analytics.

SKILLS FOR THE FUTURE With increasing specialization and globalization in the industry, planners will have to become competent in multiple areas such as: expertise in emergency preparedness, security and crisis management. “These will become requirements for planners,” Torres says. Buffington adds, “An ongoing, working knowledge of dietary statis- tics, social responsibility, wellness and global sustainability will be part of deci- memorable experiences and that in real places in real time. Only in sion-making for events. Planners will ‘wow’ factor. The demand for custom, face-to-face encounters can we trig- need to consider the remote attendee personal and immersive experiences ger the trust component that’s at the as much as those attending in-person.” will remain strong. heart of how we make decisions about Marusa believes meeting profes- In spite of the tech bells and whis- the big things.” sionals will “need better technology tles, face-to-face meetings will remain While technology is important, Gil- marketing skills, website content relevant. According to Bizzabo’s data, ligan says, “Planners will still require development capability and speedy 85% of business leaders believe in- the ability to read situations and peo- access to information.” person events are a critical component ple and know how to communicate But planners may not be alone in of their company’s success. “I foresee effectively with the full spectrum of skills acquisitions. “Research, cus- change coming in the facilitation of personality types.” tomization and personalization will making these meetings be needed to draw partici- happen more frequently, pation,” Marusa says, “So more strategically and “Evolving technology there may be growth on more efficiently,” Mass will cause an equal and both the supplier and plan- says. “The power of in- ner side for this skill set.” person events and expe- opposite reaction. The As the planner role riences will continue far more high-tech we evolves, States says some into the future.” become, the more we’ll ‘re-skilling’ may be neces- This is a people busi- value face-to-face.” sary for meeting profes- ness, Patriquin says. sionals, putting greater “Your best ROI is always DIDIER SCAILLET emphasis on graduate-level going to be your invest- CEO, SITE programs such as those at ment in the people: the San Diego State Univer- people attending the sity and MPI’s Certificate event and your own team. If you take For States, it about what meet- in Meetings Management, offered at care of people and remain focused on ings are. “Meetings will continue Indiana University’s Kelley School of the true nature of the business, the to bring people together … to meet. Business. “As we gain access to exec- rest will come together.” This will be an ever-more important utive-level roles, greater emphasis Ironically, according to Scaillet, focal point as digitization, remote will be placed on problem sensitivity technology itself will sustain face-to- work and online networks increas- and problem solving, change man- face meetings. “Evolving technology ingly drive the need for people to agement, persuasion and emotional will cause an equal and opposite reac- actually come together in a common intelligence — future-ready skills and tion. The more high-tech we become, space to connect.” cross-functional abilities that will the more we’ll value face-to-face. AI, By 2025, Nathanson theorizes, ultimately shape the future of what it VR and AR will be important but we’ll “I think sitting down and talking to means to be a meeting professional.” appreciate TR even more — tactical someone new without the assistance Stevenson believes certification reassurance, the unique magic that’s of an app or screen will feel like a will be increasingly valued. “As cli- unleashed when real people meet retro-style luxury.” ents become more savvy, they’ll look

46 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com for planners and third parties to be to build proposals and costing. We’ll organizations start to value human- well qualified and have certification to need to be fluent in multiple software centered design in everything they do, prove it. We’re seeing a lot of interest platforms to accommodate each client planners will be poised to help facili- from clients in our CIS, CITP and CMP and the way they assimilate and com- tate that conversation.” certifications,” she says. municate information.” Echoing Stevenson, Rogers notes, The typical toolbox of the planner, FUTURE PLANNING “It’s important to stay on the cutting notes Scaillet, will have to include in- Gilligan believes the movement edge of knowledge and change. Cer- depth knowledge of technology and the around climate change will profoundly tification establishes a benchmark to advanced ability to use it. “This includes impact business events, bringing learn and document this.” tactical matters such as connecting “scrutiny of the entire meetings and Those who don’t keep up may face laptops to screens and managing audi- events process from the perspectives consequences. “With new technology, ence engagement platforms. It will also of sustainability, care for the environ- new regulations on data and security, include awareness of ongoing development or use of fossil fuels.” new global requirements,” Kun notes, ments in technology, particularly the Goss says planning of the future “if you don’t keep up as a planner, your crunching and interpretation of big “will be the same — but faster, more tech opportunities will be more limited.” data that’ll be available and enable us savvy and more client-competitive.” Nathanson agrees. “If you don’t stay to personalize the participant experi- For Torres, future planning will current on technology, trends and expe- ence and make it truly meaningful.” require shifting perceptions about the riences you’ll be making yourself obso- Planners, Gilligan says, “will need job itself. “As planners, we wear many lete. I look forward to walking into a to have agility and nimbleness with hats and have to juggle the level of ballroom in 2025, pulling out my device technology. They’ll need to acquire importance each of those hats carry. of choice and projecting my designs the millennial ability to move deftly The job description is going to get across the room from floor to ceiling.” and efficiently across platforms on a larger; key performance indicators will Certification itself will also evolve. mobile, handheld device. Data will be become more detailed. This industry “Certifications may change drasti- a mere click away and planners will is far behind on transparency and how cally with old processes and platforms need to be able to access it in real time.” to convey the value of our services as quickly changing or emerging,” Goss On the good news front, planners something greater than commissions says. “With more tech suppliers vying may already have skills for the future. on a program,” she says. “We need to for a seat at the table, it’s likely organi- “I’ve been studying the philosophy equip ourselves with knowledge and zations will have more choice of regis- behind human-centered design,” Glau research to ensure that the job of plan- tration, planning, exhibit, marketing, says. “I think many planners already ning corporate and incentive events is presentation and content platforms, have this skill but we’re often derailed found worthy and respectable across requiring a mastery or certification by competing priorities from stake- all levels in the hierarchy.” in those systems. There could also holders and our events end up miss- No one is likely to disagree be an uptick in companies requiring ing the mark with attendees. As more with that. C&IT staff who interact with large groups of people to take on more social, inter- personal and diversity training.” But it’s not just about certification. “The focus may shift to include the significance of education on a broader scale of comprehensive project management,” Patriquin says, “including developing emotional intelligence skills to learn to direct projects with a focus on how to manage the people responsible for deliverables.” Not surprisingly, expertise in technology will be critical. “Three words,” Cline says. “Technology, technology, technology. In the age of instant grati- fication, planners will need to have the most up-to-date, most efficient way

Future experiences will change based on attendee activity or input.

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 47 DESTINATION //

Seattle is known for its iconic Space Needle which, after a $100M refresh, is available as a unique venue for corporate events.

NORTH BY NORTHWEST Photo Courtesy Visit Seattle

48 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com New and Refreshed Venues Make the Pacific Northwest Prime for Meetings and Events

BY DAVID SWANSON

ot ‘new’ destinations for manager at the Digital Built Environ- flow and wayfinding. And the loca- meetings and conven- ment Institute, which operates an tion in Seattle is convenient and well tions are few and far annual event series catering to those located to allow visitors to walk to between. While Seattle who design, build, operate and main- sites and stores nearby.” has long been utilized for tain the built environment. Along with seven other hotel events by Pacific North- Schmieding adds: “I go to many openings, the debut of the Hyatt Hwest-based companies such as Ama- conferences, and have produced sev- Regency helped boost the downtown zon and Microsoft, the city’s day in eral as a member of the BILT com- hotel inventory last year by 19%, with the sunshine may have arrived for mittee. The experience here was an additional 3% increase in rooms meeting planners looking for some- my best so far.” projected for this year. Until the new thing fresh and different. Located in the heart of downtown, convention center starts to absorb With 431,306 sf of rentable space, the hotel is two blocks from the con- groups, Seattle may be faced with a the existing Washington State Con- vention center’s existing Arch build- temporary glut of rooms. vention Center (WSCC) — known as ing and sits adjacent to the Summit “While demand is increasing, it the Arch building — has been is not increasing at the the smallest meeting facility same pace as our sup- of any major west coast city, ply,” says Jena Thorn- hindering the city’s ability ton, a “hotel data junkie” to draw high-profile events. and principal at Seattle Clearly, Seattle has been real estate firm Kinzer ripe for expansion. Partners, who adds that Last year Seattle approved local hoteliers are sing- construction of a second, ing the blues. “The years non-contiguous building for 2019 and 2020 will be its convention center, the tough for occupancies Summit, located two short as our hotels absorb blocks from the Arch build- the new supply.” ing. The $1.7 billion project The Hyatt chain holds LMN Architects will add 570,290 sf of event an enviable position for space to the WSCC, anticipated to be The Washington State Convention access to the WSCC. In addition to the completed in spring 2022. Already, Center is undergoing a $1.7 Hyatt Regency, the Grand Hyatt Seat- 16 meetings have booked into the billion expansion. tle and Hyatt at Olive 8 are also within new facility, three of which will utilize one block of the existing convention both the Arch and Summit buildings. addition. The 45-story Hyatt Regency center and the expansion. The Grand Additionally, nine new hotels catering offers 103,000 sf of flexible meeting Hyatt has a 5,671-sf ballroom, along to a divergent audience have opened and ballroom space and has already with a unique indoor amphitheater in Seattle over the past two years, enlivened the surrounding pedestrian with raked seating for 159 attend- adding 2,500 rooms to the downtown streetscape and growing conven- ees. Across the street, Hyatt at Olive core. The jewel in the crown was the tion neighborhood. 8, features a 6,641-sf ballroom. The opening of the 1,260-room Hyatt Schmieding was particularly three hotels work closely to accom- Regency Seattle, the largest hotel in impressed by the vertical layout of modate groups small and large. the Pacific Northwest. The year-old the building, allowing guests to eas- Another major meeting hotel is hotel is already drawing plaudits ily transfer from their hotel room the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle, from high-profile meeting planners. to each conference level. “As an which originally opened in 1924 and “I want to say how impressed I architect, I am particularly critical is listed on the National Register of was with the new facility and the team of design and layout,” he explains. Historic Places. Fairmont has oper- at Hyatt Regency Seattle,” says Mark “The design of the conference floors ated the hotel since 2003 and the Schmieding, BILT NA partnership as ‘rings’ with escalators helps with hotel underwent an extensive renova-

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 49 tion in recent years, updating “The Sheraton Grand offered all guest rooms and meeting one of the best set-up meet- facilities, while keeping the ings we have had in many hotel’s distinctive character. years,” Griffin says. “Usually The hotel has 30,000 sf of we are in Reno, using one of meeting space and includes the casino hotel conference a variety of unique, one- rooms, but we always seem of-a-kind spaces. to run into issues with A/V or seating. For this meeting SEATTLE’S VARIED they had a complete set-up MEETING VENUES that was seamless and won- This year, Seattle’s land- derful from start to finish.” mark Space Needle completed Griffin noted that Cintas a $100 million renovation that required a runway and high- takes the visitor experience to level A/V equipment, but the a new level, but also makes the hotel provided a four-man iconic structure a viable option A/V team that was “superb for corporate events. The two- and professional. They were level ‘top house’ can be rented knowledgeable and helped us for a memorable event 520 tremendously — everything feet above the city, or meeting went so smoothly.” planners can utilize the Sky- “The food exceeded our Line Level, a private event and expectations,” Griffin adds. banquet space 100 feet off the “They met the dietary require- ground with capacity for 350 ments with ease as well.” guests reception-style or 300 Hyatt Regency Seattle offers two ballrooms larger The one challenge Grif- for a banquet. Immediately than 19,000 sf: the Columbia Ballroom and the fin cites was holding one of next door to the Space Needle, Regency Ballroom. the receptions at the hotel’s the exquisite Chihuly Garden 35th-floor Cirrus Ballroom. and Glass — under the same manage- Pike Place, the Waterfront and a short “The elevators were not prepared to ment — can be incorporated with the ride from the Space Needle.” handle such a large group moving up tower for a one-of-a-kind block party The Sheraton Grand completed and down, and it ended up making for groups of 1,500 or more. an extensive refresh of all guest our team late for the awards banquet,” For its sales meeting earlier this rooms and common spaces last year Griffin explains. “The Cirrus Ballroom year, Cincinnati-based Cintas chose which led to being re-flagged with the was beautiful, and everyone enjoyed it Seattle based on the city’s accessibil- ‘Grand’ designation. Directly across — it was just not easy to get back down. ity to attendees located in the West- the street from the convention cen- But as soon as we alerted the staff, they ern U.S. and Canada. opened the service ele- “Seattle offered a central- vator, and got our teams ized meeting destination “I go to many conferences, down ASAP. It was, for our teams in Canada, and have produced several again, a prime example and a short flight from as a member of the BILT of their great service all teams in Oregon and offered to our group. California,” says Bri- committee. The experience The staff throughout the elle Griffin, executive here was my best so far.” entire hotel was atten- administrator for the tive and truly under- vice president of sales at MARK SCHMIEDING stood how to handle a the company’s Northwest BILT NA Partnership Manager group of our size.” Sales Group. “The city is Digital Built Environment Institute Griffin recommends beautiful, and our group planners working with really enjoyed being able the Sheraton Grand be to walk at night to look at all the good ter, every inch of the hotel’s 75,000 specific and clear with expectations things Seattle had to offer.” sf function space was renovated. The and needs upfront. “Be sure you review For the 380-attendee gathering, hotel is renowned for having the larg- your banquet event orders closely,” Cintas chose the Sheraton Grand est private art collection on display Griffin suggests. “Once you do that, Seattle. “We really enjoyed the fact at a Seattle business and features it will run without a hitch. We were that the hotel was a short walk from numerous Dale Chihuly glass pieces. very clear on the front end, leading to

50 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com a truly set-and-forget type of meeting we were able to work around that.” city, with a population of 200,000. with absolutely no hiccups once we The hotel’s main eatery, The Fig The Greater Tacoma Convention were on-site and rolling. We loved it.” & The Judge Market Restaurant, was Center offers 119,000 sf of combined Enthusiasm for Seattle as a host des- open for breakfast and lunch only at meeting and pre-function space, with tination was also a factor for Weather- the time. “So we went out for meals,” floor-to-ceiling views of downtown. bee Resources, which had a Regulatory Stange says. “This ended up being fine Hotel Murano, named after the glass- Boot Camp for 88 attendees earlier as we got to experience more of the blowing capital of Italy, currently this year. “Seattle offered a wonderful city. I will say the hills in Seattle are offers the bulk of rooms adjacent to opportunity to have participants from reminiscent of San Francisco. Seattle the convention center, along with the Pacific Northwest who would not is a great walking city — especially if more than 30,000 sf of flexible meet- normally attend an event ing space ranging from on, say, the East Coast,” “I will say the hills in Seattle classroom to theater-style explains Lynn Stange, spaces and a ballroom. RN, BSN, MA, CHC, are reminiscent of San Next year, the number president of Weatherbee Francisco. Seattle is a great of rooms within walking Resources, who called walking city — especially if distance of the convention the city “a natural fit” for you want exercise.” facility swells as Marriott’s her conference, which Tacoma Convention Cen- was held at the Renais- LYNN STANGE, RN, BSN, MA, CHC ter Hotel nears completion. sance Seattle Hotel. President The four-star property will Weatherbee Resources “We also knew that be the first hotel attached to travel into Seattle would the convention center, con- be easy for those coming nected on the ballroom level from other areas and that the hotel you want exercise.” Stange adds that by a grand promenade. When it opens was well-situated — not only easy guest rooms were “divine.” in fall 2020, the 23-story hotel will access to and from the airport or train “They were well furnished, quiet, have a 10,000-sf ballroom plus seven station, but also to local entertain- had nice views, were spacious and breakout rooms totaling 9,000 sf. ment and food. The advantages were clean,” Stange says. “I would defi- numerous: many things to do and see, nitely return to the Renaissance for PORTLAND EXPERIENCING friendly people, great weather and, of personal travel.” HOTEL BOOM course — great seafood.” Trading Mt. Rainier views for those Due to the intensity of Weather- TACOMA CLOSE TO of Mt. Hood, Portland, Oregon is also bee’s program, no off-site events were SEA-TAC AIRPORT experiencing a hotel boom that is scheduled. The Renaissance features Just 25 miles from Sea-Tac Airport, helping to reposition the city as a top a wide variety of smaller meeting Tacoma is Washington’s third-largest meeting and convention destination. rooms, spread on five different floors. The largest space is the 5,225-sf Court- yard Ballroom, sufficient for a banquet seating 380. “We have worked with the Renaissance in the past and they have always treated us well, so it was an easy decision to book,” Stange says. “We were fortunate to be able to have our event in the hotel meeting area. We loved the meeting rooms, as they were spacious and easy to access from the hotel rooms. The catering was very well done and the food was delicious, and the event staff was professional and easy to work with. We made use of their technology, and although I recall there were some issues with the Wi-Fi,

Mt. Rainier Gondola rides offer attendees fantastic views of Mt. Rainier and the Cascade Mountains. Jason Anglin

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 51 The hotel room inventory for the city cient, and the renovations enhance enjoy themselves here, and we have center is projected to reach 10,000 ADA accessibility with the addition had really good feedback in past years. rooms by spring 2020, an increase of of a connector corridor between the Many attendees come to Portland the 40 percent since 2015. original building and the previous week before to explore the city. We While many of the recent hotel expansion. The final phase of the have numerous dinners around the openings in Portland target business renovation was an extensive update city during the week, and attend- travelers and the leisure market, the to the 25,000 sf Oregon Ballroom, ees always say they enjoy the food Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon completed just recently. scene in Portland.” Convention Center, opening in March Construction software company But there’s one other advantage 2020, will help put the city’s conven- Viewpoint may have its world head- for Viewpoint meeting in Portland: tion stature on better footing. The quarters based in Portland, but for It’s tax-free. “A tax-free city allows hotel will feature 39,000 us more budget to spend on sf of meeting and event attendee experience,” Sward space, including a 11,822-sf “A tax-free city allows says. “Moving to another city ballroom. The hotel is cen- us more budget to would mean we would have to trally located in the Lloyd spend on attendee cut some experiences.” District, with high-end experience.” Viewpoint used two hotels for restaurants and breweries the bulk of its attendees: Port- nearby, plus ample public land Marriott Downtown Water- SCOTT SWARD, CCTE, GLP, GTP transportation access. Global Travel and Meetings Manager front and the Hilton Portland The Oregon Conven- Viewpoint Downtown. “We needed large tion Center itself is now blocks and these hotels worked completing a $40 mil- well with us,” Sward says. “Basi- lion, 14-month renovation to update its annual Collaborate Conference, cally, they had to let us block the entire the 30-year-old building, the larg- the company found hosting the hotel and have space large enough for est convention center in the Pacific event in its home city meant employ- a large party as well as ample space for Northwest, sprawling more than 1 ees could attend the 2,600-attendee pre-conference labs and meetings as million sf. The interior design will event last year without busting well as additional space for receptions bring the aesthetic of Oregon land- the travel budget. during the week. Both are also promi- scapes inside, replete with local “Portland is a great city for meet- nent in the downtown area, and give accents such as lichen-like carpets ings,” says Scott Sward, CCTE, GLP, our attendees not only a good hotel and forest-canopy ceilings. The GTP, Viewpoint’s global travel and experience but also easy access to all building is now more energy effi- meetings manager. “Attendees really that downtown Portland has to offer.” Sward continues: “We have our welcome party at the Marriott Water- front; our final customer appreciation party is at the Hilton. Both hotels have excellent catered food. The service is amazing — they really care about you and your event, and they are great partners.” Sward lauds the Oregon Con- vention Center, where sessions and workshops were held. “They are very easy to work with and very accom- modating,” he explains. “It’s an excellent facility and you can have a great meeting without feeling lost as you might in a city like Las Vegas or Orlando. And the food is some of the best convention center food I have ever had.” One challenge Sward notes is

Oregon Convention Center offers 255,000 sf of contiguous exhibit space and 52 meeting rooms.

52 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com Downtown Boise offers everything from retail shops, restaurants, theaters and art galleries to event facilities. the location of the Oregon Conven- tion Center in relation to downtown, where most hotels are found. “Attend- ees are apprehensive at first when they hear they have to ride the train to the convention center,” he says. “But after they do it they find it easy and convenient.”

BOISE CATERS TO CORPORATE EVENTS The Pacific Northwest region extends inland to Idaho, and downtown Boise has seen the addition of nearly 600 hotel rooms in recent Idaho Tourism years, bringing the total to nine prop- natural gas industry. “The Boise air- were very affordable,” Wold adds. erties with 1,275 rooms within walk- port has nonstop travel for many of our “The staff had water and coffee sta- ing distance to Boise Centre. Addi- member companies and the airport is tions by the classrooms and dur- tionally, the long-standing Red Lion only minutes from downtown Boise.” ing breaks snacks were available Hotel Boise Downtowner is sched- Wold continues, “The Boise Cen- in the main convention hall. Along uled for a complete overhaul that will tre had just recently completed an with our board members, I was very include a flag change to Marriott’s expansion, and the added square impressed by the professionalism of Delta Hotels brand. The planned $10 footage allowed us to offer more the entire Boise Centre staff, from million makeover will include a total classes and vendor space. We had front office to wait staff.” renovation of all guest rooms with plenty of space for our group of 525 Wold says vendors used downtown completion expected in 2021. attendees and for the 103 vendor restaurants to dine with their custom- Boise Centre has also seen a face- booths in the main convention hall. ers each night. “One vendor rented lift. Last year a renova- the JUMP Center (Jack’s tion boosted space from Urban Meeting Place) next 50,000 sf to 86,000 sf, “We had plenty of space to the Boise Centre for din- with 31 meeting rooms for our group of 525 ner and a Japanese drum available. Boise can now attendees and for the 103 and dance show,” Wold accommodate groups vendor booths in the main says. “I attended some of up to 1,600 attendees as the dinners and had great well as multiple smaller convention hall.” food and fun, and there groups at the same time. TIM WOLD were great comments on Although Boise is most 2019 Chairman restaurants from the other Western Gas Measurement commonly linked to Short Course attendees that I talked with events for associations, during the event.” the city was centrally Wold noted one chal- located for the member companies The A/V staff set up each classroom lenge Boise presented to some attend- operating the Western Gas Measure- with a projector, screen and micro- ees: The limited number of nonstop ment Short Course, (WGMSC) an phone for the speakers, and I was flights from the east. “Several vendors educational conference that drew 525 given a radio to contact A/V, catering flying in from the East Coast area had attendees earlier this year. or the operation staff if anything was a long day,” he explains. But the ben- “All members of the WGMSC are needed or to be changed. I was also efits outweighed the inconveniences. employees of Western U.S. and Cana- given a lapel pin to wear so the staff “The main advantage of Boise as a dian natural gas utilities and trans- knew that I was the point person for destination is the commitment of portation companies,” explains Tim the convention.” the convention center, the hotels, Wold, 2019 chairman of the WGMSC, “Breakfast and lunch buffets at the restaurants and the city to make an event that provides classes by the Boise Centre were well received sure everyone attending is wanting to industry experts for employees of the by the attendees and the prices come back.” C&IT

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 53 2019 A W A R D S OF EXCELLENCE

THE BEST OF THE BEST CVBS, HOTELS, RESORTS AND CONFERENCE CENTERS

54 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

e at Corporate & Incentive Travel magazine are proud to present the winners of our 35th annual WAwards of Excellence. We thank our subscribers — the meeting and incentive travel professionals — for ARIA RESORT & CASINO judging which hotels, resorts and ARIZONA BILTMORE conference centers best served their needs by excelling in staff service, accommodations and meeting facilities, F&B, event setups and arrangements, ambience and accessibility. The subscribers also choose the convention and visitors bureaus that go above and beyond in service and support, promo- tional assistance, supplier, facility THE BROADMOOR and venue information, coordina- GRAND HYATT BAHA MAR tion and liaison with local attractions and transportation, and comprehensive assistance with accommodations and site inspections.

While others may be content to rest on their laurels, these industry-leading winners prove what it means to be ‘best in class’ by continually reinventing them- HILTON ORLANDO selves through renovations and LAKE BUENA VISTA rebrandings. Communicating and ROSEN SHINGLE CREEK marketing effectively is all about making real connections through relationship-building. When you make it personal, you make meetings and events an unquali- fied success. And then everyone is a winner. We salute all the winners of our Awards of Excel- lence on these pages and invite you to read the success stories of many of the winners featured in TRUMP NATIONAL SEA ISLAND RESORT this annual section. DORAL MIAMI

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 55 2019 WINNERS | AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

CONVENTION &. Long Beach Convention & Visit Fort Worth U.S. Virgin Islands .VISITORS BUREAUS. Visitors Bureau FORT WORTH, TX Department of Tourism LONG BEACH, CA ST. CROIX, U.S.V.I. Atlanta Convention Visit Indy & Visitors Bureau Los Angeles Tourism & INDIANAPOLIS, IN . HOTELS, RESORTS & Convention Board ATLANTA, GA .CONFERENCE CENTERS. LOS ANGELES, CA Visit Jacksonville Choose Chicago JACKSONVILLE, FL Marina del Rey Convention ARIA Resort & Casino CHICAGO, IL & Visitors Bureau Visit KC LAS VEGAS, NV KANSAS CITY, MO Cincinnati USA MARINA DEL REY, CA Arizona Biltmore, A Convention Meet AC VISIT Milwaukee Waldorf Astoria Resort & Visitors Bureau MILWAUKEE, WI PHOENIX, AZ ATLANTIC CITY, NJ CINCINNATI, OH Memphis Tourism Visit Myrtle Beach Atlantis Paradise Destination DC MYRTLE BEACH, SC Island, Bahamas MEMPHIS, TN WASHINGTON, DC PARADISE ISLAND, BAHAMAS Nashville Convention & Visit Newport Beach Inc. Detroit Metro Convention NEWPORT BEACH, CA Baltimore Marriott & Visitors Bureau Visitors Corp. Waterfront NASHVILLE, TN DETROIT, MI Visit Orlando BALTIMORE, MD ORLANDO, FL Discover The Palm Beaches New Orleans & Company Beau Rivage Resort & NEW ORLEANS, LA WEST PALM BEACH, FL Visit Phoenix Casino PHOENIX, AZ BILOXI, MS Experience Columbus NYC & Company NEW YORK, NY COLUMBUS, OH VisitPITTSBURGH Beaver Run Resort & PITTSBURGH, PA Conference Center Explore St. Louis Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau BRECKENRIDGE, CO ST. LOUIS, MO Visit San Antonio OKLAHOMA CITY, OK SAN ANTONIO, TX Bellagio Greater Boston Convention & LAS VEGAS, NV Visitors Bureau Philadelphia Convention & Visit Seattle Visitors Bureau BOSTON, MA SEATTLE, WA Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa PHILADELPHIA, PA ATLANTIC CITY, NJ Greater Fort Lauderdale Visit Tampa Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau Reno-Sparks Convention TAMPA, FL Boston Park Plaza & Visitors Authority FORT LAUDERDALE, FL BOSTON, MA RENO, NV Visit Tucson Greater Houston TUCSON, AZ The Broadmoor Convention & Visitors Bureau San Diego COLORADO SPRINGS, CO Tourism Authority INTERNATIONAL. HOUSTON, TX SAN DIEGO, CA Caesars Palace Las Vegas Greater Miami Aruba Convention Bureau LAS VEGAS, NV Convention & Visitors Bureau San Francisco ORANJESTAD, ARUBA Travel Association Chicago Marriott MIAMI, FL SAN FRANCISCO, CA Bermuda Tourism Downtown Magnificent Mile Authority Greater Palm Springs CHICAGO, IL Convention & Visitors Bureau Team San Jose HAMILTON, BERMUDA SAN JOSE, CA Lincolnshire Marriott PALM SPRINGS, CA Korea Tourism Resort Organization Greater Raleigh Travel Portland LINCOLNSHIRE, IL PORTLAND, OR GANGWON-DO, KOREA Convention & Visitors Bureau Coeur d’Alene Resort RALEIGH, NC Visit Anaheim Québec City COEUR D’ALENE, ID ANAHEIM, CA Business Destination Hawaii Visitors & QUÉBEC CITY, Conrad New York Convention Bureau Visit Austin QUÉBEC, CANADA NEW YORK, NY HONOLULU, HI AUSTIN, TX Singapore Tourism Board The Diplomat Beach Resort Hilton Head Island Visit Baltimore SINGAPORE HOLLYWOOD, FL Visitor & Convention Bureau BALTIMORE, MD HILTON HEAD, SC Tourism Toronto Eaglewood Resort & Spa Visit Charlotte TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA ITASCA, IL Irving Convention CHARLOTTE, NC & Visitors Bureau Tourism Vancouver Fontainebleau Miami Beach IRVING, TX VisitDallas VANCOUVER, BRITISH MIAMI BEACH, FL DALLAS, TX COLUMBIA, CANADA Las Vegas Convention and Fort Lauderdale Marriott Visitors Authority VISIT DENVER Tourisme Montréal Harbor Beach Resort & Spa LAS VEGAS, NV DENVER, CO MONTRÉAL, QUÉBEC, CANADA FORT LAUDERDALE, FL

56 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com 2019 WINNERS | AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

Foxwoods Resort Casino The Houstonian MGM National Harbor Rosen Plaza Hotel MASHANTUCKET, CT Hotel, Club & Spa OXON HILL, MD ORLANDO, FL HOUSTON, TX Gaylord National Resort Hyatt Regency Maui The Mirage Rosen Shingle Creek & Convention Center Resort & Spa LAS VEGAS, NV ORLANDO, FL NATIONAL HARBOR, MD LAHAINA, HI Mohegan Sun Royal Sonesta Gaylord Opryland Resort Hyatt Regency UNCASVILLE, CT New Orleans & Convention Center New Orleans NEW ORLEANS, LA Monarch Beach Resort NASHVILLE, TN NEW ORLEANS, LA DANA POINT, CA Sandestin Golf and Gaylord Palms Resort Hyatt Regency Orlando Beach Resort Moody Gardens Hotel, & Convention Center ORLANDO, FL SANDESTIN, FL KISSIMMEE, FL Spa & Convention Center Hyatt Regency Tamaya GALVESTON, TX Sawgrass Marriott Gaylord Texan Resort Resort & Spa Golf Resort & Spa New York Hilton Midtown & Convention Center SANTA ANA PUEBLO, NM PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL GRAPEVINE, TX NEW YORK, NY JW Marriott Indianapolis Sea Island Resort Ocean Reef Club Grand Geneva INDIANAPOLIS, IN SEA ISLAND, GA Resort & Spa KEY LARGO, FL LAKE GENEVA, WI JW Marriott San Antonio The Sea Pines Resort Ojai Valley Inn & Spa Hill Country Resort & Spa HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC Grand Hyatt Baha Mar SAN ANTONIO, TX OJAI, CA NASSAU, BAHAMAS Omni Dallas Hotel Seaport Hotel & World JW Marriott Scottsdale Trade Center DALLAS, TX Grand Hyatt Denver Camelback Inn BOSTON, MA DENVER, CO Resort & Spa Omni Nashville Hotel SCOTTSDALE, AZ Seminole Hard Rock Hotel Grand Hyatt Vail NASHVILLE, TN & Casino Hollywood VAIL, CO Keystone Resort & Omni Orlando Resort HOLLYWOOD, FL Conference Center Grand Sierra at ChampionsGate KEYSTONE, CO Sheraton Grand Chicago Resort and Casino CHAMPIONSGATE, FL CHICAGO, IL RENO, NV La Cantera Resort & Spa Orlando World SAN ANTONIO, TX Sheraton New Grand Wailea Maui, A Center Marriott Orleans Hotel Waldorf Astoria Resort ORLANDO, FL La Quinta Resort & Club NEW ORLEANS, LA WAILEA, HI LA QUINTA, CA Palmer House, Talking Stick Resort Hammock Beach Resort The Langham, Boston a Hilton Hotel SCOTTSDALE, AZ PALM COAST, FL BOSTON, MA CHICAGO, IL Tropicana Las Vegas Harrah’s Resort Loews Miami Beach Hotel Peppermill Resort LAS VEGAS, NV Atlantic City MIAMI BEACH, FL Spa Casino ATLANTIC CITY, NJ RENO, NV Loews Portofino Bay Trump International Hotel Hilton Austin Hotel at Universal Orlando PGA National & Tower Chicago CHICAGO, IL AUSTIN, TX ORLANDO, FL Resort & Spa PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL Hilton Hawaiian Village Loews Ventana Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Resort Canyon Resort The Phoenician, a Luxury Washington, D.C. HONOLULU, HI TUCSON, AZ Collection Resort WASHINGTON D.C. SCOTTSDALE, AZ Hilton New Orleans Manchester Grand Hyatt Trump National Doral Miami Riverside San Diego Ponte Vedra Inn & Club MIAMI, FL PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL NEW ORLEANS, LA SAN DIEGO, CA The Venetian Resort Hilton Orlando Mandalay Bay The Post Oak Hotel at Las Vegas Lake Buena Vista Resort & Casino Uptown Houston LAS VEGAS, NV LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL HOUSTON, TX LAS VEGAS, NV Walt Disney World Swan Hilton San Diego Bayfront Margaritaville Hollywood The Resort at Pelican Hill and Dolphin Resort SAN DIEGO, CA Beach Resort NEWPORT COAST, CA LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL HOLLYWOOD, FL Hilton Sandestin Beach The Ritz-Carlton, The Westin Kierland Golf Resort & Spa MGM Grand Detroit Dove Mountain Resort & Spa DESTIN, FL DETROIT, MI MARANA, AZ SCOTTSDALE, AZ Hotel del Coronado MGM Grand Hotel & Casino Rosen Centre Hotel Wynn Las Vegas CORONADO, CA LAS VEGAS, NV ORLANDO, FL LAS VEGAS, NV

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 57 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE SEA ISLAND Two-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms/Suites: 390 Meeting Space: 42,000 square feet (interior) Special Services & Amenities: Sea Island’s rooms and suites offer views from oceanfront and river view to golf course. In addition to 42,000 square feet of interior meeting and event space, Sea Island’s setting as a barrier island provides myriad outdoor event options as well, from casual, overlooking the river and marsh to oceanfront, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. When it comes to dining, the culinary team ensures that cuisine is customized to meet the theme, style, budget and goals of every event. Nine restaurants offer dining experiences ranging from casual, oceanfront to Forbes Five- Star. As a semitropical island, Sea Island enjoys an average year-round high temperature of 75° and an average low of 60°.

teeped in golf tradition, Sea Island is home to three championship golf courses, including Seaside and Plantation, site of the PGA TOUR’s RSM Classic, hosted each fall by Davis Love III, Sea Island tour- ing professional, two-time Ryder Cup Captain and 2017 inductee into the World Golf Hall of Fame. WithS 15 holes flanked by views of the ocean, sound and marsh, Seaside is Sea Island’s signature course. Retreat Course, originally designed by Joe Lee, was renovated in 2001 by Davis and Mark Love and features a unique, dramatic layout. Created in 1928 by Walter Travis and redesigned by Rees Jones in 1999, Plantation has again been redesigned, this time by Davis Love III and his brother Mark, as part of a $30 million enhancement program for golf and The Lodge at Sea Island. GOLF AND LODGE ENHANCEMENTS Located between Seaside and Plantation, The Lodge at Sea Island recently added an 18-hole putting course called The Speedway, six new cottages with a total of 14 new sleeping rooms, an oceanfront pool and pool house and a new, 17,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Golf Performance Center. Now being called by some the finest such center in the world, it features six instruction and club fitting bays, cutting-edge

58 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

putting studio, golf club workshop, gym, and indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces. Phil Kenyon, director of putting instruction and one of the most sought-after putting instructors in the world, has designed the new putting studio for teaching and putter fitting. The Center teaches every aspect of the game to all skill levels, from juniors to Open and Masters Champions. AN OVERVIEW Since 1928, Sea Island has been known as an exceptional destination appealing to those who appreciate gracious service and heartfelt hospitality. With four Forbes Five-Star experiences — The Cloister at Sea Island, The Lodge at Sea Island, The Spa at Sea Island and the Georgian Room restaurant — it is the only resort in the world to have received four Forbes Five- Star Awards for 11 consecutive years. The only U.S. resort to host a G-8 Summit of world leaders, Sea Island provides exceptional settings and service for conferences and executive retreats. Guest accommodations are available at The Cloister, a Mediterranean masterpiece; The Lodge, reminiscent of an English country manor or The Inn at Sea Island. A cottage option is also available. Located on the Georgia coast midway between Jacksonville, Florida (JAX, 60 minutes) and Savannah, Georgia (SAV, 75 minutes), Sea Island is served by two additional airports, including Brunswick (BQK, 20 minutes) and the private McKinnon St. Simons Airport (SSI, 10 minutes). C&IT

DAVID FURNISH Vice President of Sales and Marketing 100 Cloister Drive Sea Island, GA 31561 888-906-8048 Fax: 912-638-5803 [email protected] seaisland.com

TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | November 2019 59 THE RICHARDS GROUP TRG JOB #: ISL18 2018 Print Production CLIENT: Sea Island PUB: Corporate & Incentive Travel DATE: 5/1/2018 TRIM: 16.25" x 10.875" LIVE: 15.25" x 9.875" BLEED: 16.5" x 11.125" GUTTER: .375" each side LINE SCREEN: 133/#3 COLOR: CMYK FOR QUESTIONS CALL: Kathleen Pendergast 214.891.2918

ISL18 2018 Print Production_CIT_Mtngs_16_2x10_8.indd 1 4/12/18 2:44 PM THE RICHARDS GROUP TRG JOB #: ISL18 2018 Print Production CLIENT: Sea Island PUB: Corporate & Incentive Travel DATE: 5/1/2018 TRIM: 16.25" x 10.875" LIVE: 15.25" x 9.875" BLEED: 16.5" x 11.125" GUTTER: .375" each side LINE SCREEN: 133/#3 COLOR: CMYK FOR QUESTIONS CALL: Kathleen Pendergast 214.891.2918

ISL18 2018 Print Production_CIT_Mtngs_16_2x10_8.indd 1 4/12/18 2:44 PM 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE HARRAH’S RESORT ATLANTIC CITY First-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms/Suites: 2,590 Meeting Space: 125,000 square feet of flexible meeting space — the attached Waterfront Conference Center, the largest meeting facility of its kind from Baltimore to Boston, features 100,000 square feet Special Services & Amenities: Under a 90-foot glass dome sits our indoor oasis, The Pool. It is perfect for a closing reception with up to 2,000 participants.

arrah’s Resort Atlantic City, the largest facility of its kind and accessible charging stations. from Baltimore to Boston, boasts 125,000 square feet of Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City exemplifies high standards flexible meeting space to deliver your world-class event. of environmental and social responsibility in relation to their The Waterfront Conference Center features 100,000 meetings and convention facilities and practices. This includes square feet of meeting space spanning two floors, with documented energy-reduction plans further strengthened by aH prime Marina District location. The pillar-less Avalon and Wild- Caesars Entertainment’s specific objectives and numeric tar- wood Ballrooms each provide more than 49,000 square feet of ver- gets. That is why Green Key Global awarded Harrah’s Resort satile meeting space and divide into 30 breakout rooms. Atlantic City a four-key rating. The Atlantic City Ballroom is divisible into seven breakout We are here to advise meeting planners every step of the way rooms and perfect for an opening reception. It opens into the Gal- when it comes to F&B, as well — whether you want a breakfast lery, featuring pre-function space for registration or network breaks. buffet, snack breaks, boxed or plated lunches or an elegant din- Enjoy an evening at The Pool, surrounded by a tropical oasis ner banquet. Caesars Entertainment will help create the ideal and live entertainment under a 90-foot tall dome. It is a perfect menu to fit your vision and budget, from seafood and poultry or setting for a closing reception with room for up to 2,000 partici- gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. pants. At night, it transforms into The Pool After Dark, Atlantic All of Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City’s restaurants welcome City’s hottest pool party. Experience the best nightlife in Atlan- groups and complete buyouts are also available. We offer a dine- tic City and dance the night away listening to live entertainment around arrangement, allowing guests to sample different ven- with top DJs and performers. ues, such as Gordon Ramsay Steak, Martorano’s and Veracruz. Flexibility is key with Caesars Entertainment. With one phone OUR RESORT EXEMPLIFIES HIGH STANDARDS call you have access to all our properties within one destination. With views of the marina, Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City guest One contact, one contract and one food and beverage minimum. rooms and suites are exquisitely appointed and designed with The possibilities are endless with Caesars Entertainment. C&IT your absolute comfort in mind. This includes the recently redesigned and enhanced 507 guest rooms and suites in the Coastal Tower. Coastal rooms, which boast approximately 450 square LISA MESSINA feet of space, offer fresh design elements, similar in aesthetics Vice President of Sales to the resort’s Bayview rooms, and feature rich hues of lavender Caesars Entertainment 3570 S. Las Vegas Boulevard and blue accent colors, contrasting white and gray tones and Las Vegas, NV 89109 contemporary furniture. Hard-wired for business-minded trav- 855-633-8238 elers seeking to be constantly plugged in, all Coastal rooms and [email protected] suites will be technology-rich with high-speed internet access caesars.com/caesars-palace

62 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com LARGEST CONFERENCE CENTER FROM BOSTON TO BALTIMORE 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE THE BROADMOOR 35-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms/Suites: 784/125 Meeting Space: 315,000 square feet Special Services & Amenities: Championship golf, spa and fitness center, tennis and pickleball program, falconry, zip-lining, 23 boutiques and 20 restaurants, cafes and lounges.

he Broadmoor and its Wilderness Experiences encom- NATURE’S PLAYGROUND pass a total of 5,000 acres within Colorado’s Pikes Nestled at the base of Cheyenne Mountain, nature’s play- Peak region. The main resort has 784 guest rooms and ground is knocking at our back door. Allow yourself to step suites, championship golf courses, an award-winning outside of your comfort zone and experience flora at its fin- spa, unique retail, and 20 diverse restaurants, cafes and est. To get yourself acclimated, pick up a hiking map from our lounges. The Broadmoor’s unparalleled combination of concierge and warm up as you embark on the 1-mile trail to the Tan illustrious history of innovation and distinctive culture of Seven Falls gate. Whether you choose to hike the Chamberlain service has made it one of the country’s premier event destina- Trail on your way to The Broadmoor or climb the 224 steps to tions for more than 100 years. the top of Seven Falls, trail systems are abundant and within The Broadmoor may be the longest-running Forbes Five- walking distance from The Broadmoor’s main campus. Need a Star, AAA Five-Diamond hotel in the country, but we don’t have quick detour? Fly through Cheyenne Canyon, above bristlecone time to rest on our laurels. That’s why in the spring of 2020, the pine treetops and over the ‘Grandest Mile of Scenery’ with The 125,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall will make its debut. Explicitly Broadmoor Soaring Adventure. The Woods and Fins courses intended to accommodate trade shows and exhibits, the interior consist of 10 zip lines, two suspension bridges, a 180 foot-con- of the space will be less formal and very versatile. Additionally, trolled rappel to the canyon floor and an overwhelming sense 32 breakout rooms surround the exhibit space with direct inte- of accomplishment. C&IT rior connectivity to the adjoining Broadmoor Hall. Together the Exhibit Hall, Broadmoor Hall, International Center and Colo- rado Hall will comprise ‘The Broadmoor Event Center.’ Add in the main campus meetings space and you have over 315,000 square feet to offer your group. PEPPER DOMBROSKI The Broadmoor and The Broadmoor’s Wilderness Experi- Director of Sales The Broadmoor ences are the perfect destinations to enjoy a temperate climate, 1 Lake Avenue, Colorado Springs, 80906 consisting of 300 days of sunshine and low humidity. Thanks Group Sales Phone: 855-502-2081 to the beautiful year-round weather, visitors to The Broadmoor Group Sales Fax: 719-577.5779 spend much of their time outdoors hiking, golfing, mountain [email protected] biking, fly fishing or simply relaxing. broadmoor.com

64 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com GRAND ENOUGH FOR YOUR BEST PEOPLE AND THEIR BIGGEST IDEAS.

Meetings and events take on a special energy at The Broadmoor. Our magniﬁcent Colorado setting will inspire your people. Our world-class golf, spa, dining and more will refresh them. The unique venues and activities of our Broadmoor Wilderness Experience properties will challenge them and change their perspectives. Our 185,000 square feet of meeting space is flexible enough to meet your most demanding requirements. And amidst it all, The Broadmoor’s legendary tradition of quality and service will ensure your event is a success. Contact us today and start planning your meeting now at broadmoor.com.

855.502.2081 BROADMOOR.COM 1 LAKE AVENUE, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80906

083485_Broadmoor_BIGGEST IDEAS_Corporate Incentive Travel 8.125x10.875.indd 1 6/7/19 10:21 AM 083485_Broadmoor_Biggest Ideas • Corporate & Incentive Travel • Trim size 8.125”x 10.875” • 6/4/19 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE LOEWS PORTOFINO BAY HOTEL 20-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms/Suites: 750 Meeting Space: 42,000 square feet Special Services & Amenities: Choose 3 FREE incentives when you book your next meeting at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel by December 31, 2019. Visit our website for more information.

niversal Orlando Resort is the premier destina- been completely renovated with a fresh, new Mediterranean- tion for meetings and events, offering incredible inspired design that enhances the attendee experience. Design- product, remarkable experiences and a passionate ers took their inspiration for the new rooms from the upscale, group of people committed to collaborating with sun-drenched resort of Portofino, Italy and its historic harbor you every step of the way. along the Italian Riviera. Attendees can enjoy three themed With 295,000 square feet of meeting space and swimming pools, seven restaurants and lounges, a world-class 9,000U guest rooms across eight hotels by 2020, three different spa and complimentary Wi-Fi in guest rooms and public areas. theme parks, and the Universal CityWalk dining and entertainment complex, Universal Orlando Resort offers everything you INCREDIBLE EVENT OPTIONS could want in a meetings destination. Three amazing theme parks, Universal Studios Florida, Uni- versal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay pro- MEETINGS WITH ITALIAN CHARM vide unparalleled entertainment and a variety of breathtaking This Italian-inspired hotel offers majestic meeting and func- and immersive backdrops for your events. tion spaces. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel’s meeting space is the There’s also outstanding dining, shopping and nightlife at epitome of warmth and elegance, from the inviting meeting the Universal CityWalk entertainment complex. Here you’ll rooms to the ambience of the impressive prefunction areas. find an array of restaurants and nightclubs, many of which can Planners also will find a variety of beautiful outdoor ven- be reserved for special events. ues, including the scenic Harbor Piazza and dazzling Villa Pool, Best of all, Universal Orlando’s hotels, theme parks and where events can be enhanced by the hotel’s lush landscaping entertainment complex are all in close proximity, making getting and distinctive Italian architecture. Adorned with handcrafted around the resort easy and convenient for meeting groups. C&IT details such as Venetian glass chandeliers, the hotel offers a breathtaking setting for both business and social events. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel boasts a total of 42,000 square KATHY CATTOOR feet of meeting and function space, including 15,000-square- Vice President, Resort Sales foot and 7,600-square-foot ballrooms, eight meeting rooms and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel 5601 Universal Boulevard, an impressive 47,000 square feet of outdoor meeting space. Orlando, FL 32819 877-823-2042 MEDITERRANEAN-INSPIRED ACCOMMODATIONS [email protected] All 750 rooms and suites at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel have www.uomeetingsandevents.com

66 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com Portoﬁno Bay Hotel TM & © 2019 UCF Hotel Venture. All rights reserved. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2019 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. 1943273/MLW 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO HOLLYWOOD Five-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms/Suites: 1,271 Meeting Space: 120,000 square feet Special Services & Amenities: 18 acres of pools/water, including a pool lagoon the length of three football fields; two white- sand beaches; private pools; concierge services; property- wide, high-speed Wi-Fi; 24-hour, in-room dining

eminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood just club; a day club with resort-style pool oasis and bungalows completed a $1.5 billion, resort-wide expansion. The and rooftop bar. project included the complete renovation of the Seminole Hard Rock has everything from entertainment existing Hard Rock Hotel and the addition of the and culinary destinations to luxury retail and refreshing pools. iconic Guitar Hotel and Oasis Tower. We are South The new 13.5-acre pool lagoon offers activities such as kayaking, Florida’s premier one-stop destination for fun and paddle boarding and more — perfect for team building. Blow entertainment,S with 24/7 action and amenities that include an off some steam at Hard Rock Live, the integrated resort’s new expansive gaming floor, food and beverage outlets, live concert concert venue. With unobstructed sightlines from every seat in venue, luxury spa and salon with high-end gym, retail shops and the house, guests can enjoy music’s hottest acts at their leisure. more. Boasting 120,000 square feet of meeting and convention With Hard Rock Live and the opening of a new comedy club space, Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood is primed to compete with weekly programming, guests will find much to do at Semi- as one of the top destinations for events in South Florida. With nole Hard Rock. True to the brand, live music can be found at a seasoned team with decades of experience, we can tailor and the resort’s signature bars ranging from jazz sounds to upbeat produce events of any size for any occasion. rock cover bands and everything in between. The resort is located within close proximity to South Flor- EQUIPPED FOR EVENTS OF ANY SIZE ida’s major airports: 15 minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Holly- Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood’s meeting space includes a wood International Airport (FLL); 45 minutes from Miami 38,000-square-foot exhibition hall large enough to host trade International Airport (MIA); and an hour from Palm Beach shows, conventions and large corporate groups. Adjacent to the International Airport (PBI). C&IT prefunction space that features vaulted ceilings, chandeliered ballrooms and marbled atriums, the opulent and sophisticated setting offers the perfect location for the most productive busi- MARK P. TASCIONE ness events and elegant social affairs. With 46 unique spaces, Director of Sales & Catering the flexible meeting space can be reconfigured to accommodate Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood groups as large as 5,000 or smaller, more intimate groups of 15. 1 Seminole Way Hollywood, Florida 33314 Additional event space is available at DAER South Florida, 954-797-5502 the resort’s new nightclub/dayclub complex. DAER is a 44,000- [email protected] square-foot, customizable space that includes an indoor night- seminolehardrockhollywood.com

68 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com Everyone Has spaces we have Venues

Following a $1.5 billion resort-wide expansion, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is ready to put your next event on our center stage. Located just 10 minutes from Fort Lauderdale- Hollywood International Airport, boasting 120,000 square feet of meeting space, 1,271 luxury guestrooms and suites, world-class spa spanning 42,000 square feet, 19 unique dining concepts, 18 acres of pool expanse, and 26,000 square feet of boutique storefronts, Seminole Hard Rock doesn’t miss a beat. Combined with our brand standard ampliﬁed service, our team of seasoned planners is primed to make your next event our headlining act.

CALL 800.937.0156 TO BOOK YOUR GROUP TODAY!

ONE SEMINOLE WAY | HOLLYWOOD, FL 33314 | HARDROCKHOLLY.COM 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE CAESARS PALACE 26-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms/Suites: 4,022, including Nobu Hotel’s 182 rooms, 18 suites and one villa. Meeting Space: 300,000 square feet of meeting/convention/ ballroom facilities. Special Services & Amenities: Add a memorable twist to your event by hosting it at the newly renovated Colosseum, the multilevel OMNIA nightclub, or the 4.5-acre Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis.

he iconic Caesars Palace offers luxurious amenities and TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR FLEXIBILITY contemporary elegance for the perfect event. Our five Caesars Entertainment features more than 100 restaurants, towers, which include high-end suites and villas, will cafes and lounges. All our restaurants welcome groups and com- make every guest feel like royalty. plete buyouts are also available. We offer a dine-around arrange- The grandeur and lavishness of Caesars Palace ment, allowing guests to sample different venues. Caesars Pal- extends triumphantly into 300,000 square feet of ace has an array of award-winning restaurants from celebrity Tstately meeting facilities. Our conference center is ideal for chefs, such as Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill, Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s meetings with direct access to the Palace Tower and comfort- Kitchen, Nobu Matsuhisa’s Nobu Restaurant & Lounge, Pronto ably set apart from the casino area. These two stories include by Giada de Laurentiis, and Restaurant Guy Savoy. two 51,000-square-foot ballrooms that can be configured into In April 2019, Caesars Entertainment opened Vanderpump 25 separate breakout rooms and overlooks the Garden of the Cocktail Garden with television star and restaurateur Lisa Van- Gods Pool Oasis. Meeting planners will find an outstanding derpump. Available for events of up to 150, Vanderpump Cock- range of flexible meeting spaces to accommodate large-scale tail Garden is the newest addition to the iconic Los Angeles- productions or small groups. based Vanderpump empire and offers exclusive cocktails and Add a memorable twist to your event by hosting it at one of bites, all in a garden oasis setting. our unique special venues. The Colosseum, home of the great- Flexibility is key with Caesars Entertainment. With one phone est entertainers in the world, is available for general sessions. call you have access to all our properties within one destination. Imagine your CEO on the same stage graced by Madonna One contact, one contract and one food and beverage minimum. and Jerry Seinfeld. In the summer of 2019, The Colosseum The possibilities are endless with Caesars Entertainment. C&IT underwent a transformation that includes a new, state-of- the-art sound system, new moving light fixtures, a high-defi- nition LED video wall and refurbished seating to enhance the theater’s comfort. LISA MESSINA We are here to advise meeting planners every step of the way Vice President of Sales when it comes to F&B, as well — whether you want a breakfast Caesars Entertainment buffet, snack breaks, boxed or plated lunches or an elegant din- 3570 S. Las Vegas Boulevard ner banquet. Caesars Entertainment will help create the ideal Las Vegas, NV 89109 855-633-8238 menu to fit your vision and budget, from seafood and poultry or [email protected] gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. caesars.com/caesars-palace

70 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com

CAESARS PALACE

LAS VEGAS

CaesarsMeansBusiness.com 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE GRAND HYATT BAHA MAR First-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms/Suites: 1,800 guest rooms, including 230 suites Meeting Space: 200,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor space, including 82,000 square feet for The Baha Mar Convention, Art and Entertainment Center Special Services & Amenities: Ta ke a flamingo walk, held twice per day around the pool area with four ambassador flamingos.

elebrating the ocean, culture and spirit of The • Enjoy high-end retail, featuring Tiffany’s, Rolex, Hublot, Cart- Bahamas, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is a spectacular ier, Bvlgari, Vilebrequin, Lilly Pulitzer and MAC Cosmetics. luxury resort located on the picturesque island • Take art classes at The Current Art Gallery. of New Providence in Nassau. With stunning • Experience a celebration of Bahamian art in the largest col- views of the ocean and green coastal fairways, lection of contemporary art at the Bahamas. Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is a sanctuary of natural beauty,C dramatic architecture, art and modern luxury. The THE LARGEST CASINO IN THE CARIBBEAN & MORE! oceanfront haven boasts 1,800 opulent guest rooms, includ - At Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, guests can experience a casino with ing 230 suites that comprise one-, two- and three-bedroom 1,140 slots and 119 table games, indulge in the destination’s spa, residences with lavish amenities and contemporary décor. splurge at high-end retail shops, and savor innovative cuisine Designed to become the preferred venue for international at more than 20 restaurants, bars and lounges. A white sand incentives, meetings and events, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar will beach with water sports, several pools, The Racquet Club at manage The Baha Mar Convention, Art and Entertainment Baha Mar, a Jack Nicklaus signature design golf course, and a Center, the destination’s 200,000-square-foot indoor and out- vibrant nightclub will ensure no shortage of activities and fun, door convention facility. accented by unforgettable Bahamian hospitality.

ENJOY BEACHFRONT LOCATION, SPA & GOLF Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is on beautiful Cable Beach just 6 miles At Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, attendees can: from the Nassau International Airport and 5 miles from Down- • Dine at 40 unique, on-site options, from easygoing poolside town Nassau. North American travelers will clear customs on bars, a Pan-Asian noodle bar, food trucks on the beach, to their way out of Nassau International Airport. C&IT fine dining. This includes nine lounges and bars. • Unwind at six unique pools, with private cabanas and per- BRAEDAN QUIGLEY sonal attendants. Director of Sales and Marketing • Play at Baha Mar Casino, the largest casino in the Caribbean, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar totaling 100,000 square feet of gaming excitement. One Baha Mar Boulevard • Relax at ESPA Baha Mar, the ultimate spa experience with Nassau, The Bahamas 30,000 square feet of total tranquility. [email protected] • Tee off at Royal Blue Golf Course, the par-72, 18-hole Jack Group Sales Phone: 242-788-7344 Nicklaus signature golf course. grandhyattbahamar.com

72 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com GRAND HYATT BAHA MAR

Inspired by the spirit and beauty of the Bahamas, our venues are distinctive for their playful colors and airy interiors. With 200,000 sq. ft. of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, and stunning Cable Beach as a backdrop, we can accommodate intimate events and large meetings with a unique Bahamian ﬂair. Inquire about value dates and exclusive offers. Email [email protected] or call 242-788-7344.

NASGH Ad Group 8.125x10.875 1019B.indd 1 10/23/19 11:23 AM 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE VISIT DENVER, THE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 24-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms: More than 11,000; nearly 50,000 metro-wide Hotels/Resorts: 44 downtown; 150-plus metro-wide Convention Center FYI: The Colorado Convention Center has 584,000 square feet of meeting space, two hotel- quality ballrooms and a 5,000 fixed-seat theater.

n outdoor city filled with urban adventure, Denver expansion will bring up to 80,000 square feet of new flexible meet- pulses with an entrepreneurial vibe that makes it an ing and ballroom space, as well as 50,000 square feet of prefunc- emerging business hub. Then there’s the majesty of tion space and a 50,000-square-foot rooftop terrace. The expan- those ever-present mountain views! Add more than sion will also provide best-in-class technology improvements. 11,000 downtown hotel rooms, 300 days of annual sunshine, a thriving, chef-driven dining scene and AROUND TOWN uniqueA venues, and you’ve got the combination for the perfect Hosting an off-site meeting? The city is abounding in unique, meeting destination. only-in-Denver venues. Try a morning yoga class at the world- VISIT DENVER, The Convention & Visitors Bureau is a famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre or get inspired by a breakout helpful and experienced organization ready to assist planners in session at Denver Art Museum, the renowned home of one of crafting the perfect meeting. The award-winning staff is avail- the greatest American West art collections in the world. able to help you stay on top of all the exciting changes in the city. For an exceptional dining experience, visit one of the “Meeting planners are looking to meet in a unique destina- many award-winning, chef-owned restaurants. Recent James tion,” says Rachel Benedick, vice president of sales and ser- Beard Award winners include Jen Jasinski, owner of Rioja, vices for VISIT DENVER. “Denver is a four-season, outdoor located in Larimer Square; and Alex Seidel, owner of Mer- city. Winters are milder than you would expect, and the rest cantile Dining and Provision, housed inside the renovated of the year mostly enjoys warm days and cool nights. The arts Union Station. Check out one of the city’s innovative food halls, and cultural scene is thriving, and the dining scene has really such as The Source, Avanti F&B or the brand-new Milk Mar- reached its breakthrough moment.” ket, where you can get everything from poke bowls and pasta to crêpes and charcuterie. Zagat recently listed Denver in its top GETTING THERE five most exciting food cities. C&IT Getting to Denver has never been easier. Denver Interna- tional Airport (DEN) has one of the top-three largest domestic networks in the U.S. with 1,600 daily flights and nonstop ser- RACHEL BENEDICK vice to 25 international destinations. Plus, DEN airfares are 17% Vice President, Sales & Services lower than the national average. Once you’ve landed, take the 1555 California Street, Suite 300 affordable and convenient A Line from DEN directly to Denver Denver, CO 80202 Union Station in the heart of downtown. 800-480-2010 A short walk or free shuttle ride away from Union Station is the Fax: 303-892-1636 [email protected] Colorado Convention Center (CCC), designed by meeting planners visitdenver.com for meetings planners. Big changes are on the way — an upcoming

74 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com

2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 24-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms: 55,394 Hotels/Resorts: 426 Meeting Space: 1.2 million square feet Convention Center FYI: The Miami Beach Convention Center has 680,000 square feet of meeting and exhibition space, a 60,000-square- foot grand ballroom, a 20,000- square-foot junior ballroom and 84 breakout rooms. An 800-room headquarter hotel will be built soon.

rom perfect weather, pristine beaches and top- square feet of versatile exhibition space and more than 180,000 rated attractions to world-class hotels, dining and square feet of meeting space, including a 60,000-square-foot a thriving arts and culture scene, Miami has every- grand ballroom, a 20,000-square-foot junior ballroom, and 84 thing you need to host the meeting or convention of breakout rooms. The space also features a terrace where attend- your dreams. Few places in the world deliver such a ees can step out, mingle, and soak up the city’s signature sunshine thriving mix of international sophistication, natural and ocean breeze. The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors tropicalF beauty and authentic cultural diversity as Miami. Bureau is excited to announce that the Miami Beach Convention Miami is a place where beauty and richness await to be Center will soon be home to a connecting 800-room headquarter found across the city, particularly among the many hidden hotel, making Miami the ultimate convenient meeting destination. gems it offers. Miami’s diverse neighborhoods are a great place Miami is also easy to get to, with Miami International Air- to start, where visitors are encouraged to explore the rich cul- port (MIA) offering more than 400 flights from around the tural roots that make Miami an incredible melting pot. Discover globe daily and serving more airlines than any other airport in the Latin flavors of Little Havana or the Caribbean heritage of the U.S. If you are already in Florida, try the Brightline, a styl- Little Haiti. Stroll through the street art district of Wynwood ish express train service that provides intercity travel, connect- or the charming bohemian neighborhood of Coconut Grove. ing Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service If you seek a more cosmopolitan edge, the bustling epicenter between Miami and Orlando coming soon. of Downtown Miami, with its gleaming skyscrapers, sweeping These are just a few of the memorable and magical high- waterfront bay views, and endless shopping and dining possi- lights awaiting any meeting planner considering Miami. Visit bilities, is the perfect neighborhood for you. MiamiMeetings.com to learn more. C&IT And no journey to Miami is complete without exploring iconic South Beach, where the eclectic lifestyles and colorful art deco architecture come to life. Along with the stunning beauty of its beaches and colorful buildings, South Beach also offers a BARRY MOSKOWITZ diverse mix of world-class boutiques, galleries and stores. Vice President, Sales and Industry Relations Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau A vibrant and dynamic global hub, Miami continues to rein- 701 Brickell Avenue, Suite 2700, Miami, FL 33131 vent itself with incredible hotels, meeting spaces and enhanced Email: [email protected] infrastructure. Among the creative venue options is the reimag- Phone: 305-539-3042 Fax: 305-530-4276 ined Miami Beach Convention Center, featuring nearly 500,000 Website: miamimeetings.com

76 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com ONE

CITY

When it comes to planning your next meeting, Miami has it all. MANY DESTINATIONS. Breathtaking landscapes and diverse neighborhoods set the perfect stage for innovative art, world-class entertainment and family-friendly attractions that visitors never forget. Plan your next meeting today.

800-933-8448 ext. 3071 [email protected] MiamiMeetings.com

M6_Corp and Incentive_Print Ad_8.125x10.875_Many Destinations.indd 1 10/4/19 2:34 PM FILE NAME M6_CORP AND INCENTIVE_PRINT AD_8.125X10.875_MANY DESTINATIONS MODIFIED OCTOBER 4, 2019 2:34 PM studio GRAPHIC ARTIST RAFA R CREATED 05/08/19

CLIENT GMCVB BLEED 125” ALL SIDES PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR COPYWRITER MARKET TRIM 8.25 X 10.5” JOB# LIVE 7 PROJECT MNGR. PROOFREADER ACCOUNT EXEC. PUB DPI & SCALE 300 DPI CHARIS T. ALEX A. NOTES 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE LONG BEACH CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 15-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Total Guest Rooms: 5,196 Total Hotels/Resorts: 27 Total Square Feet of Meeting Space: Hotel: 219,000+ / Offsite: 500,000+ Convention Center FYI: The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center has 400,000 square feet of exhibit space, three exhibit halls totaling 224,000 square feet, 34 meeting rooms, the 45,000-square-foot Pacific Ballroom and more.

ocated in the heart of Southern California, Long A $60 million modernization created a new model for Beach offers quick and easy access to all of the the convention center of the future. This repositioning gives attractions of Los Angeles and Orange County. guests a warm, stylish and welcoming social experience. With As the only urban downtown waterfront today’s attendees in mind, the lobbies and hallways have been between San Francisco and San Diego, Long Beach enhanced to create mini-meeting spots and networking pods blends big-city excitement, entertainment and where attendees can sit, talk and socialize. amenitiesL alongside the laid-back welcoming atmosphere Long Beach is a ‘trailblazer’ in the creation of cost-saving, of a beach resort. Within a compact eight-block area in the ‘turnkey’ special event spaces. Each venue comes complete downtown waterfront, visitors discover accommodations with pre-installed, professional theatrical/event lighting to fit any budget or style, including shopping, attractions, and sound systems. entertainment, nightlife and more than 130 quality restau - The Pacific Ballroom has become one of Southern Cali- rants. Listed on WalkScore.com’s “Top 10 Most ‘Walkable’ fornia’s hottest special event venues, providing an intimate Cities in America,” Long Beach is pedestrian and bike- environment for dinners, concerts and special events. The friendly, with walkways and promenades boasting stunning open-air Terrace Plaza comes complete with programmable oceanfront vistas. ‘dancing waters’ fountains, while The Cove, with its under-the- pier motif, is the perfect place for a Southern California food ATTRACTIONS truck party. C&IT Long Beach attractions include the Queen Mary, Aquar- ium of the Pacific, Rainbow Harbor, The Pike Outlets & Enter- tainment Center, Shoreline Village, two distinctive museums, STEVE GOODLING two historic ranchos, and 11 miles of scenic beachfront, inland President and CEO waterways and bays. With 345 days of sunshine annually, visi - Long Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau tors enjoy endless waterside activities. 301 E. Ocean Blvd. Suite 1900 Located in the center of the city’s downtown waterfront and Long Beach, CA 90802 entertainment district, the Long Beach Convention & Enter- 562-495-8350 tainment Center features more than 400,000 square feet of [email protected] modern, flexible exhibit and special event space. www.visitlongbeach.com

78 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com 800.452.7829 | MeetInLongBeach.com @VisitLB | #MeetInLB 2019 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE NEW ORLEANS & COMPANY 19-Time Winner

FACTS AND FEATURES Guest Rooms/Suites: More than 35,000 city-wide/ 26,000 downtown Meeting Space: 4 million+-square- foot convention center Special Services & Amenities: The 1.1 million contiguous square feet of meeting space under one roof makes this the sixth-largest in the nation.

ou already know what makes New Orleans a suc - ENJOY OUR UNIQUE CULTURE cessful meeting destination — more than 26,000 Don’t forget about the food. New Orleans is known for out- hotel rooms, a walkable downtown, world- standing cuisine. Guests will find recipes passed down through renowned cuisine, legendary music and an authen- generations as well as unique, bold fusions from innovative and tic culture that cannot be found anywhere else. But, award-winning chefs. New Orleans is the best place for fine din- did you know about the new state-of-the-art air- ing as well as food less than $5. Yport terminal, additional hotel inventory, convention center The city’s compact geographic footprint means that many capital improvements and 4.5 miles of riverfront develop - of these hotels, meeting spaces, attractions and restaurants are ments — plus so much more — that are reinventing the meet - within walking distance of each other, as well as the historic ing experience? You also have access to local experts at New French Quarter, allowing guests to relax and experience New Orleans & Company (formerly the New Orleans Convention Orleans on their own time outside of the meeting room. Take & Visitors Bureau) that can help you with every aspect of your advantage of New Orleans’ robust festival and events calendar meeting. Your dedicated New Orleans expert can save you to give attendees extra incentive to make the trip and share with time and energy, helping you select hotels, identify venues them the unique culture and spirit of the Crescent City. that fit your needs, and send leads for a variety of vendors — Come for the meeting, leave with a story, not just a souve- all complimentary! nir. Visitors won’t soon forget their experience in New Orleans, The Crescent City is home to a wide variety of venues, so when you’re starting to plan your next meeting, contact New hotels, restaurants and attractions that can serve as the per- Orleans & Company first to get your dedicated New Orleans repre- fect meeting backdrop for any size or type of event. You can sentative onboard to help you with dates, rates and space! C&IT go big in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome or keep it small at the Stage Door Canteen inside The National World War II Museum. Bring in the color and magic of Mardi Gras at Blaine STEPHANIE TURNER Kern’s Mardi Gras World and River City venues. The diverse Vice President, Convention Sales & Strategy spaces — from the float den to the indoor mansion to the river- 2020 St. Charles Avenue front — can accommodate a wide variety of events. Gain a new New Orleans, LA 70130 perspective on the city aboard the Steamboat Natchez, Creole Group Sales Phone: 877-366-7425 Queen or our newest addition, the Riverboat Louis Armstrong, Group Sales Fax: 504-566-5067 where your guests can eat, drink and enjoy live music while [email protected] neworleans.com/meetings cruising on the mighty Mississippi River.

80 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com TAKE A NEW LOOK AT THIS HISTORIC CITY.

Our long-time strengths of world class assets and walkability, combined with our profound commitment to you to forge a partnership that drives unparalleled success in producing an energizing experience for your executives, exhibitors, and attendees have been reimagined. The result...meetings that exceed your attendance, financial and business goals and imprint memories of experiences talked about for years. Choosing New Orleans is a win for you! Call us at 877-366-7425 or visit NewOrleans.com/Meetings to book. ON THE MOVE //

Westin Tampa Bay has appointed Colleen Beck as director of sales and marketing for the waterfront property. Beck brings more than 25 years of hospitality experience to the team. She will be responsible for driving the sales and marketing strategies for the 244-room hotel. Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel has named Yelithza Gonzales the new director of sales and marketing. Gonzalez BECK will supervise the sales efforts of the hotel while developing GONZALES new accounts, maintaining existing accounts, managing rate and inventory, managing TPI and implementing sales and marketing strategies. MSC Cruises USA — the North American arm of MSC Cruises, the Swiss-based, world’s largest privately-owned cruise line — has appointed Michelle Lardizabal as senior vice president and commercial sales officer, a new position for the company responsible for overseeing the entire U.S. sales organization. Lardizabal brings 25 years of sales experience to her new role. Hilton Milwaukee City Center has named Wisconsin native, Christine Lunz, the new director of events. Lunz brings more than LUNZ LARDIZABAL 16 years of experience to the award-winning meetings and events team at Marcus Hotels & Resorts, which owns and manages the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. Andaz West Hollywood has welcomed Matt Ojinaga as director of sales and marketing. In his new role, Ojinaga will oversee all aspects of sales and marketing for the legendary property. Previously, he has received numerous Hyatt leadership awards, including the 2017 Sales Team of the Year and the 2015 Sales Elite Performer. YOTEL has appointed James Rattray as director of sales and marketing for YOTEL Washington D.C. Capitol Hill. Rattray will lead OJINAGA the sales and marketing strategies at Liaison Washington Capitol RATTRAY Hill, a YOTEL affiliate, overseeing the strategic repositioning of the property as it transforms and rebrands to YOTEL Washington D.C. Chattanooga’s historic hotel, The Read House, has appointed Tennessee native, Andrea Richey, as director of sales. With an impressive resume, Richey brings more than 20 years of successful, recognized achievement to her new role. Most recently, she served as area director of sales and marketing at The Westin Stonebriar Hotel & Golf Club in Frisco, Texas. Mission Inn Resort & Club, Howey-In-The-Hills has named Roy Schindele executive director of sales and marketing. In his new role, Schindele will implement strategies to promote the Mission’s RICHEY 30,000 sf of conference space and array of outdoor recreational SCHINDELE and team building amenities. The Confidante Miami Beach has welcomedMacarena Sepulveda as the new director of event planning and meeting experience. In her new role, Sepulveda will be responsible for managing the planning and execution of banquet events and event services to ensure a seamless and memorable occasion. Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalow, a mid-century modern inspired resort, has appointed hospitality veteran, Deanna Zuber- Galloway, as director of sales, marketing and events. Zuber- Galloway brings more than 15 years of hospitality experience in SEPULVEDA sales, events planning and food and beverage operations to her ZUBER-GALLOWAY new position. C&IT

82 November 2019 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com INSPIRING PLACES

INSPIRE GREAT MEETINGS.

Take your next meeting or event to Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate where your attendees will relish in the

resort’s features. From 248,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, to all new studio suites, nine on-site

restaurants, championship golf courses, expanded pool OmniHotels.com/Orlando 407-238-6526 areas and a Mokara Spa, our teams will ensure every

event is nothing short of spectacular. Naturalist-guided excursions

Top performers crave premium experiences, like exploring Experience Galapagos the Galapagos Islands with Celebrity FloraSM. Come eye to eye with extraordinary creatures, while sailing in with Celebrity Flora, extraordinary creature comforts—intuitive service, stunning suites, locally sourced cuisine with menus by our Michelin-starred chef. It’s all included, even shore the ultimate incentive. excursions led by certiﬁed naturalists, like snorkeling with the sea lions, sea turtles, and marine iguanas.

Corporate responsibility is another incentive. We designed our new ship with dynamic positioning to “anchor” without anchors and solar panels to supplement electricity, and our guests have planted 38,000 trees. Join us.

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Discovery Lounge Sea lions in the Galapagos Sky Suite with Veranda

09_01_MICE_PRC_8.125x10.875_CIT_Flora.indd 1 7/25/19 1:10 PM