California Meetings + Events Magazine

MEET THE DUO BEHIND SOCAL’S BIGGEST FOOD AND WINE EVENT

MEET + EAT:

S: PS Z U TI O PL H A T C E T OM FR

EPICUREAN ENTREPRENEURS:

SMALL BITES ARE MAKING A BIG IMPACT

MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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WINTER

2012

WHAT’S OLD is NEW Antique event rentals lend old-fashioned elegance

GREAT HAPPENS IN THREES AT HYATT REGENCY HUNTINGTON BEACH Book your qualified meeting by March 30, 2012 and hold by June 30, 2012 and receive a 4% rebate to your master account, triple Gold Passport Points, and complimentary guestroom internet on paid room nights. Situated across from eight miles of spectacular beaches with panoramic ocean views, the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa is a must book venue. The resort features 517 newly renovated guestrooms including 57 suites and a combined 100,000 square feet of function space. Easily accessible from three major airports, enjoy luxurious accommodations, four-diamond dining and the 20,000 square foot Pacific Waters Spa. For more information, please call us at 714 698 1234.

Visit huntingtonbeach.hyatt.com. Hyatt. You’re More Than Welcome.

714 698 1234 HUNTINGTONBEACH.HYATT.COM

Offer valid on select dates, subject to availibilty. Terms and conditions apply.

Full terms and conditions can be found at huntingtonbeach.hyatt.com

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IN EVERY ISSUE 6 Editor’s Letter

BY KIRA COPLIN

18 Meet + Eat Scaled-down servings at California’s newest dining spots are perfect for pairing and sharing.

BY TAMARA SHAYNE KAGEL

20 Tablescapes A rustic chic tablescape comes to life.

BY KIRA COPLIN

22 Venue Report Opulent settings and touches of elegance make for event spaces that stand out from the crowd.

BY ASHLEY HEATON

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22 FEATURES 31

COPLIN

Tech on Deck

ON the COVER

Technology tips, tools and trends from A to Z.

Los Angeles’ Casa de Perrin boasts a bohemian, eclectic collection of vintage tabletop decor.

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BY CATHLEEN HAGAN, JENNA NELSON AND ROBERT LUCE

What’s Old is New Again Catering to the growing demand for all things vintage, California vendors get creative with Old World touches.

BY KIRA COPLIN

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56 People Profile By fusing passion with practicality, Ken Loyst and Michelle Metter turned a ‘little’ event idea into one of the nation’s biggest culinary draws. BY ASHLEY HEATON

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F : C A L L AWAY G A B L E P H O T O G R A P H Y.

Destination With a thriving hospitality industry, world-class amenities and year-round sunshine, there’s no place like the Greater Palm Springs area. BY KIRA

WINTER 2012

PUBLISHER R. CRAIG BEDNAR DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING DAVID MUSOLF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER MARCEL GYSWYT DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL ACCOUNTS JOHN SULLIVAN PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR, NORTHWEST JOHN KUEBER

PROJECT DIRECTOR DIANNE TALMAGE

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR JEREMY WIELAND CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVES VALERIE ASANTE, MORGAN HALASKA FULFILLMENT MANAGER KASEY TAUBE REPRINT SALES ANNE DEWOLFE EVENTS AND PROMOTIONS MANAGER AMANDA PETERSON EVENTS COORDINATOR JENNA THILL WEB DEVELOPMENT MANAGER SANDY POWELL

CREDIT MANAGER APRIL McCAULEY ACCOUNTANT PAT SCHOSSOW ACCOUNTING CLERK CHELSEY ROHRBACHER

READER PREFERENCE SERVICE We occasionally make our subscriber names available to companies whose products or services should be of interest to you. If you prefer not to be included, you may request that your name be removed from our special promotions lists.

Write to California Meetings + Events 900 S. Third St., Minneapolis, MN 55415

California Meetings + Events accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork; they will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

Published quarterly by TIGER OAK PUBLICATIONS 900 South Third St, Minneapolis, MN 55415 Phone: 612.548.3180 Fax: 612.548.3181

Visit our website at WWW.MEETINGSMAGS.COM PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. WINTER 2012

» www.meetingsmags.com

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MEETING NOTES 10 Signature Drink The Cedar Room.

COURTESY OF CHURCHILL

10 Checklist When it comes to promotional giveaways, make an impression. BY JERRY MCLAUGHLIN

12 Venue Spotlight The Garland Ballroom, North Hollywood.

12 Planning Tools LinkedIn’s new set of tools makes posting your next conference a cinch.

17 Tips From A Pro Three ways ways to improve leadership skills in 2012.

BY AMY K. HUTCHENS

Regional News

meetingsmags.com Expert Advice

Industry News

Calendar

Get advice from the experts on hot trends, running your business, getting certifications and accreditation and opinions on national industry issues.

Which local venues are expanding, who has been promoted or hired, what companies have received awards and recognition and more updated daily.

MPI, ISES, NACE, SGMP and more local chapter and national events are listed on our calendar.

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48 Awards, announcements, venue and people news from around the area.

BY GERILYN MANAGO

54 Snapshots California Meetings + Events’ Best of Readers’ Choice Awards.

P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F : S U N N Y L A N D S .

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INDUSTRY UPDATE

WINTER 2012

EDITOR KIRA COPLIN MANAGING EDITOR MEGHAN McANDREWS WEB EDITOR

Don’t Just Have A Great Meeting, Have A Great Time.

KATE SMITH

AMY K. HUTCHENS

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Patty Andersen, Corporate Image Yacht Charters Carolyn Burns Bass, Site So-Cal Judy Bijlani, Laguna Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau Sandi Cottrell, Art for People Inc.

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EDITORIAL INTERNS LEAH LANCASTER, KATE TRESCONY, JENNA NELSON

Lisette Elhayani, Freshwata Tracy Kwiker, Pivotal Events Sylvia Lucier, Riviera Resort & Spa Nicole Matthews, The Henley Company Darlynne Menkin, Where You Want To Be Tours Patti Roscoe, PRA Mike Staples, Catamaran Resort Hotel

ART DIRECTOR RACHEL ANDERSON

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So Many Ways To Win

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR COURTNEY NIELSEN

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS HEIDI BRANES, EMILY BRETZEL, JACQUELINE HAGYARD

ADVERTISING DIRECTORS

MARGRET SCOTT 415.215.0484 margret.scott@tigeroak.com

COLORADO MEETINGS + EVENTS 303.617.0548 ILLINOIS MEETINGS + EVENTS 312.755.1133 MICHIGAN MEETINGS + EVENTS 586.416.4195 MINNESOTA MEETINGS + EVENTS 612.548.3476

Whether your group is a few people, or a few thousand, all of Pala’s meeting rooms are flexible, professional, and beautiful.

And of course, there’s the added bonus of our great amenities for the perfect post-meeting gathering, such as a fabulous casino, 10 delicious restaurants and an award-winning spa. So contact one of our helpful guest service representatives and get ready for much more than a meeting.

Call 1-877-WIN-PALA (877-946-7252) and ask for our Group Sales Office.

NORTHWEST MEETINGS + EVENTS 206.452.2959 TEXAS MEETINGS + EVENTS 972.633.2468

877-WIN-PALA (877-946-7252) PalaCasino.com Located in Northern San Diego County From San Diego County & Riverside County: Take I-15 to HWY 76, go east 5 miles From Orange County & Los Angeles County: Take I-5 south to HWY 76, go east 23 miles

Published quarterly by TIGER OAK PUBLICATIONS 900 South Third St, Minneapolis, MN 55415 Phone: 612.548.3180 Fax: 612.548.3181

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JOHN SULLIVAN 714.365.2400 john.sullivan@tigeroak.com

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PROJECT COORDINATORS HEIDI BRANES, LAURIE WOOD

editor’sLETTER New Year, New Beginnings Californians are unique, creative and truly individualistic. They like to make their own mark and to create something unexpected. They are willing to take risks and try new things. life in California evokes a sense of ease and carefree living. surrounded by sparkling cities, mountains and beaches, it’s the perfect place relax, explore, and of course, celebrate. from the desert and wineries to five-star hotels and water, there really is something for everyone. i am absolutely thrilled to be a new member of the team here at California Meetings + Events magazine. Being able to celebrate our state’s beautiful backdrops, connect readers with the community and spotlight the movers and shakers who are making waves is truly exciting. as a writer, editor and filmmaker, i’ve worked in the magazine industry for nearly ten years. i began my career as a writer for the New York Post and have contributed to CosmoGIRL, OK!, CITY magazine, Zink magazine, Desert Living and Modern Luxury publications, among others. My first novel, Pop Tart, was released by HarperCollins Publishers in the summer of 2009 with editions in the u.s., the u.K., australia and in Harper’s spanish-speaking territories worldwide. Prior to my post at California Meetings + Events, i served as the Managing editor of 944 magazine where i covered the luxurious landscape of los angeles and its latest happenings for over two years.

Here’s to a fabulous and festive 2012!

Kira Coplin eDiTor PS: Reach out to share ideas, stories, feedback and more! Drop me a note at Kira.Coplin@TigerOak.com. You can also follow me on Twitter @KiraCoplin.

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Welcome to Monterey Bayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect location.

All 50,000 square feet of it.

Featuring the largest facilities between SF and LA, and newly renovated ballroom and guest rooms, the Portola Hotel & Spa boasts over 50,000 feet of meeting space and a convenient location adjacent to the Monterey Conference Center. No matter the size or occasion, our flexible space and services provide the perfect locale for your next meeting.

Our high-tech solutions, including state-of-the-art audiovisual capabilities, HD video conferencing and a knowledgeable and accessible IT staff make for flawless multimedia presentations. The Portola Hotel & Spa is the first and only Silver LEEDÂŽ EB certified hotel in Monterey County. Team up with the Portola, and make your next event your most successful one.

PORTOLAHOTEL.COM 1.866.711.1534

Yo u r P l ac e i n

H i s t o ry Riverside, California Steeped in over a century of history and culture, there is no more inspiring setting for meetings and events than The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. The Inn features 238 guest rooms and suites, and 20,000 sq. feet of flexible function space that can accommodate everything from board meetings to conventions, in an environment that is truly one-of-a-kind.

For over a century, world leaders and Hollywood stars have chosen The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa as a place of inspiration and renewal.

3649 mission inn avenue riverside, california 92501 800.344.4225฀฀•฀฀missioninn.com

Preferred Meeting Package Book your meeting before 3/30/2012 and receive one $50 gift card to use at any of the Inn’s award-winning restaurants & Kelly’s Spa. Offer applies to groups of 20 rooms or more on peak. Applicable to groups arriving between February 1st & August 31th, 2012.

• 10% credit back to the master • 20% allowable attrition • Discounted Self-Parking ($5.00 per car/per night)

• 50% off high-speed internet in meeting rooms

• Choice of complimentary AM or PM break

• Complimentary guest room high-speed internet access

• Complimentary room ratio of 1 per 35

(coffee & danish or coffee & cookies) (per paid group room nights consumed)

Complimentary Gift Take advantage of our special offers and packages!

Register to receive our preferred meeting planner email offers and receive a special welcome gift!

To book this special package, please call 800.344.4225 and reference code: History Based on single occupancy. Subject to availability. Meeting contract must be signed by3/30/2012. Valid on new bookings only. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Rates are net non-commissionable.

meetingNOTES

Customize your QR Attention-grabbing quick response codes are a plannerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new best friend, making everything from contact information to photos from recent events available with the click of a button. Break out of the blackand-white, 2-D box by mixing colors, patterns and shapes with personalized QR code art from redfishmedia.com.

WINTER 2012

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meetingNOTES {SIGNATURE DRINK IDEA}

{CHECKLIST}

The Cedar Room

GET THE MOST OUT of WHAT YOU GIVE Promotional giveaways offer excellent marketing value compared to other media forms. In fact, according to the Advertising Specialty Institute, the average cost per impression of a promotional item is $0.004. (That’s two-and-a-half impressions per penny!) Studies show that more than four out five recipients can identify the advertiser on a promotional product they own. Plus, giveaways trigger the “reciprocity rule”—the deeply ingrained human impulse that tells us to respond to a gift by giving back.

Here are five tips to help you get the most out of your promotional items.

Ingredients 2 oz. bacon-infused George Dickel #8 Bourbon ¾ oz. Amaro Ramazzotti ½ oz. Mathilde Framboise with a Lagavulin rinse 2 dashes sour cherry bitters

Directions Mix all ingredients in a dry 10-ounce rocks glass.

Add ice and stir. Add a slice of bacon and serve.

1. Choose what they’ll use.

Pick a product your customers will want to use on a daily basis. You’ll earn their appreciation—and keep your brand top of mind.

IDEA

Courtesy of

2. Prioritize staying power.

Promotional products are highly affordable already. Don’t scrimp on durability; select a giveaway built to last.

The Churchill’s mixologist, John Rankin.

Learn more at www.the-churchill.com

{GROUP ACTIVITY}

4. Don’t overspend.

Promotional products don’t have to break your budget. In fact, they shouldn’t. A giveaway isn’t more effective just because it’s more expensive.

Bocce Nation A sport that combines fun and competition at a leisurely pace, bocce is the perfect activity for groups looking to socialize outdoors. Not familiar with the game?

BocceNation.com has everyone covered with software that organizes games, in addition to its Bocce-ina-Bag kit that includes everything needed to complete the experience, right down to a portable court.

BocceNation.com also offers fullservice event planning, just in case you’d rather just sit back and play. $139 for Bocce-in-a-Bag Kit. www.boccenation.com

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5. Comparison shop.

Undecorated items are often virtually identical from one distributor to the next—but prices aren’t. Use the Internet and comparison shop to ensure you get the branding bargain you deserve.

Courtesy of Jerry McLaughlin, president and CEO of www.branders.com, the world’s largest and lowest-priced online source of promotional products.

WINTER 2012

P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F : T H E C H U R C H I L L ; B O C C E N AT I O N .

3. Give first.

To make the rule of reciprocity work for you, be the first one to give. Human psychology suggests your generosity will be repaid.

BALANCE Finding an absolute state of equilibrium is often hard to do. You will find it at Parc 55 Wyndham, with the perfect balance of work and rest, resulting in stronger focus and enhanced productivity.

415.392.8000/meetparc55.com

meetingNOTES The Garland Ballroom North Hollywood

venue

SPOTLIGHT

{PLANNING TOOL}

LINKEDIN EVENTS Post your next conference on Linkedin to extend its networking capabilities and encourage attendees to connect with one another beforehand. A new set of tools highlights “Attendees You May Want to Meet” based on location, industry and network and new “Share This Event” options ensure your event is being marketed to the right group of professionals. Updated events from shared networks will appear in Network Update streams and the Events homepage will provide an ever-evolving set of event recommendations. http://events.linkedin.com

{FOOD + DRINK}

A P O C K E T- S I Z E D D E S S E R T Take dessert to-go with ice cream sundae-flavored malted milk balls from Nuts Online. With flavors ranging from orange sherbet to pineapple and key lime, whether you’re running to or from a meeting, your sweet tooth will thank you. Feeling generous? Bulk discounts are available if you want to share. $6.99 per pound. www.nutsonline.com

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STYLISH TRAVEL GUIDES Known for their graphically appealing covers, hyperopinionated reviews and selective entries, Luxe City Guides make for chic travel gifts. Compiled by resident editors and contributors that really know their cities, these smart, fun guides give travelers insider knowledge to make the most of their stay. The new Black Bespoke Box, hand-crafted in luxury carbon bookbinding linen with a sleek crimson interior and gold logo, holds a collection of five guides. Customers can also handpick the guides they want to include and brand the front of the box with their logo. From just one guide to multiple boxes, gift wrapping options makes giving a cinch.

Their custom-made black and aqua teal canvas-clad boxes come with a black grosgrain ribbon and layers of signature embossed tissue.

The Bespoke Box is $55 and can be purchased online; individual guides are $9.99. www.luxecityguides.com

P H OTO S CO U R T E SY O F : T H E G A R L A N D B A L L R O O M ; LU X E C I T Y G U I D E S ; N U T S O N L I N E .

Bert Seneca, general manager of the Beverly Garland in North Hollywood, recently revealed the newest renovations to the hotel’s Garland Ballroom and on-site restaurant, Tula’s. The upgraded ballroom features parchment wallpaper framed in crown molding, stately bronze mirrors and opulent chandeliers set against hues of rich chocolate brown and cream. Tula’s is also debuting a new stylish look, along with updated menus that offer California-style cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean flair. To complement the menu, the new wine list features over 60 hand-selected wines from around the world. www.beverlygarland.com

Have Your Next Meeting at Morongo!

WINNING PROPERTY

310 LUXURY ROOMS & SUITES SIX PRIVATE CASITA SUITES 15,000 SQ. FT CONFERENCE CENTER 12,000 SQ. FT BALLROOM OVER 50,000 SQ. FT OF

FUNCTION SPACE VENUES

MORONGO GOLF CLUB AT

TUKWET CANYON VIBE - OUR VERY OWN FOUR STORY NIGHTCLUB SAGE SPA & RADIANCE SALON OVER 150 PREMIUM RETAIL OUTLET MALL 2,000 SLOTS AND OVER 100 TABLE GAMES OASIS POOL WATER PARK

CALIFORNIA’S PREMIER FOUR-DIAMOND MEETING & CONVENTION DESTINATION Exquisitely arrayed on 44 acres between California’s spectacular San Gorgonio and San Jacinto mountains, the Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa is an enticing oasis.

CONTACT SALES DEPARTMENT AT 951.755.5448

WWW.MORONGO.COM

meetingNOTES {HOTELS}

A Stay in the Country

{PLANNING TOOLS}

Event Ticketing Services

The pros: 24/7 help center and email support, along with no contracts and no minimum or maximum attendees.

The cons: Fees are covered by the ticket buyers and there is a processing fee beyond the face value of the tickets ($0.99 + 3.5%). www.brownpapertickets.com

EVENTBRITE “We believe that anyone can be an event organizer.”

Like most online event ticketing services, Eventbrite is free for free events—its templates also live up to the tagline: they’re incredibly easy to use.

TICKET BUD “Don’t pass ticket fees on to your guests.” A flat fee at Ticket Bud covers everything from email and social media marketing to tickets and an RSVP page. Also, you can check out your ticket sales in real-time.

The pros: The “Eventbrite at the Door” iPhone/iPad app allows event organizers to manage tickets and RSVPs at the door.

The pros: Pay $19.99 to sell unlimited tickets for a one-day event or $39.99 for multiple-day events.

The cons: Again, fees are tacked on to the ticket price of your events ($0.99 + 2.5%). www.eventbrite.com

venue

The cons: Planners are still responsible for the PayPal processing fees associated with ticket transactions. www.ticketbud.com

SPOTLIGHT

The Morrison Room West Hollywood High above the Sunset Strip with a view of the Los Angeles skyline, The Morrison Room is a 1,000-square-foot private space now available for private parties. The space is reportedly the former flat of legendary Doors frontman, Jim Morrison (hence the name) when the band used to play below at clubs like Sneaky Pete’s and The London Fog in the early ‘60s. The event space features dark walls papered with infamous mug shots of various rock stars. Able to accommodate up to 150 people, space consists of two open-air decks with lounge seating with an enclosed temperature controlled bar area with DJ booth in between. The site offers catering services with a variety of menu options ranging from Asian cuisine to global comfort foods. The venue is accessible both through the parking lot in the back and through Duke’s West Hollywood diner on the first floor. For larger affairs, the parking lot is available for event rental. To book, call 323.977.8909 or visit www.morrisonroomla.com.

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P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F : T H E M O R R I S O N R O O M .

BROWN PAPER TICKETS “The first and only fair-trade ticketing company.” The philosophy of Brown Paper Tickets (clearly stated in their Bill of Rights) is simple: service fees should be fair and consistent.

Temecula Valley wine country’s newest hotel opens in April on the Ponte Family Estate. The 60-room Ponte Vineyard Inn in will feature two 1,360-square-foot grand suites, four junior king and four junior queen suites, with balconies that overlook the vineyards. Striving to be a sustainable facility, The Ponte Vineyard Inn will reduce its environmental footprint through the use of low VOC paint, recycled and natural materials, LED light bulbs and room occupancy sensors for the central HVAC system. Although details regarding the Inn’s corporate meeting room weren’t finalized at press time, the estate itself features four unique event spaces, ranging from intimate tasting rooms with space for 20 to their functioning barrel room, which holds 100 people with dancing outside. A vineyard pavilion (capacity 250) is the largest space available. www.pontevineyardinn.com

Meetings you can look forward to.

We invite you to experience an incomparable blend of business and pleasure not found on dry land. Specializing in customized event planning on classic yachts from a 2 person intimate occasion to a celebration for 2,200 guests.

t Holiday

For more information, call 415-438-8300 or visit hornblower.com

t Client

t Sales

Parties

Incentives

t Corporate

Meetings

Entertainment

meetingNOTES {planning primer}

How to be a better boss

Seven ways to boost your managerial mojo. b y 1. Recognize, reward and respect your employees.

Too many bosses think that money will motivate their employees to perform well. Money will get you into the game, but it will have no impact on performance. If you really want to motivate your employees, acknowledge their accomplishments—and do so publicly. This costs you and the company nothing, but it results in employees who are proud of their accomplishments and who will continue to work to earn your approval and praise. Celebrating even small successes will improve employees’ self-esteem and lead to bigger successes.

JoHn tscHoHl

of goal of increasing bookings by 20 percent, it gives employees a specific target.

5. Maximize your employees’ potential.

Empower them to make quick decisions that will keep your clients coming back to you. Support their use of empowerment and trust them to do the right thing for your customers.

6. Listen to your employees.

They are the experts when it comes to improving your products and services. The suggestions they will make, if asked, will help to reduce costs, improve operations and add to your company’s profits.

2. Hire for attitude, then train for skills.

Technical skills can be learned, good attitudes cannot. Hire people you can motivate and who enjoy working with people. Then train and nurture them.

Give them the tools they need to do their jobs—and to do them well. And don’t micromanage your employees; doing so will kill their creative-thinking and problem-solving efforts.

7. Take a good look at your own skills.

Are your managerial skills what they should be?

You should spend a minimum of 20 hours each year developing and improving your leadership skills.

Don’t wait for the company to pay for any courses you want to take, set money aside each year and pay for the programs yourself, if necessary. It’s an investment you won’t regret.

3. Terminate non-performing employees; they are a cancer in your organization.

They either do their jobs poorly, or they don’t do them at all. Those employees often have negative attitudes that drag down other members of your team.

Get rid of these people as quickly as possible.

4. Set clearly defined goals.

Establish a game plan for the year that revolves around measurable goals and target dates. To simply say, “We will increase bookings,” is not enough to increase performance. On the other hand, if you set

John Tschohl, the internationally

recognized service strategist, is founder and president of the Service Quality Institute in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Described by USA Today, Time and Entrepreneur as a “customer service guru,” he has written several books on customer service and has developed more than 26 customer-service training programs that have been distributed throughout the world. John’s monthly strategic newsletter is available online at www.customer-service.com.

“celebrating even small successes will improve employees’ self-esteem and lead to bigger successes.”

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Try Our Valley and Discover an Affordable Group Destination {TIPS FROM A PRO}

Pleasanton

LESSONS in LEADERSHIP

Livermore

From politics to business, the hot, trigger-button issue will be about who is ready to lead, and what it takes to lead in these times. practice these three quick and easy tips to immediately improve your leadership skills and management performance in 2012.

Danville

3D isn’t just for movies. leaders need to encourage thoughtful engagement in the decision-making process. 3D (discuss, debate, decide) is a process that many executive teams use to foster healthy dialogue. constructive debate builds commitment and greater long-term support for the final decision. on those occasions when leaders need to make a tough call with fewer people involved, it’s still critically important that they share their thoughts behind the decision.

Dublin San Ramon http://gettag.mobi

Accessible and affordable Tri-Valley, California is the ideal Northern California meeting and event destination.

Located on the eastern side of the San Francisco Bay hills, and boasting more than 4600 hotel rooms with affordable rates and hundreds of specialty venues and facilities – you are sure to find the right space for your group.

Book your next event in Tri-Valley, California by December 30, 2012 and receive up to $5000 for your group. Simply visit trivalleycvb.com/cash or contact our sales team at 925-846-8910 for details.

VisitTriValley

@VisitTriValley

Creativity is not the same as innovation. recognize the difference between creativity and innovation. creativity is an internal process that generates the next new idea. innovation is the external process that brings that idea to market in order to create a social and economic effect. companies that understand these differences and create systems and structures for both consistently outpace their competitors.

Leadership is sales.

With four generations in the workplace (traditionalists, baby boomers, generation x’ers and millennials), leaders must know what each generation is seeking to “buy” from their organization (their executives) and then leaders need to know how to “sell” to each constituent in order to garner engagement, commitment and loyalty.

With presentations to 30,000+ executives in eight countries, Amy K Hutchens serves as a business strategist to leaders around the globe. She is the winner of five Telly Marketing Awards and the Summit International’s Award for Creativity and a featured guest on NBC, Fox and ABC for her commentary on current events. www.amyk.com

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meet&EAT

SMALL PLATES GO BIG California’s newest eateries have mastered the art of “bite size.” B Y

TAMARA SHAYNE KAGEL

of all the food preparation. The bar area, a combination of communal tables and banquettes, seats 46; there is an additional semi-private room available for events.

RESTAURANT 1833, MONTEREY

CALIFORNIA IS PARING DOWN. Small portions, small plates, small bites— call it what you will but all along the coast, new eateries are opening up with an emphasis on smaller portions meant for sharing. Anyone who has ever tried to scarf a full-sized burger while trying to converse can attest to the fact that portion size greatly effects the success of an event. Going small is going big.

PARALLEL 37, SAN FRANCISCO Parallel 37 in Nob Hill’s Ritz-Carlton Hotel has created a menu that is meant for pairing and sharing. Small bites such as the crispy chicken wings, short rib ravioli and polenta fries are some of the highlights of Chef Ron Seigel’s thoughtful and focused menu. The clean presentation is apparent in the desserts, including the Nutella croquette and lemon

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semifreddo. “I want to create a dining experience where the food is not over-manipulated,” Siegel says. “Simple and delicious American contemporary cuisine served in an energetic and inviting space with only the best handpicked ingredients.” There is a chef ’s table, set outside of the kitchen and walled away from the main dining room that is perfect for parties of up to 12 and offers an exciting view

WINTER 2012

MOHAWK BEND, LOS ANGELES Serving equal parts vegan and non-vegan foods, Mohawk Bend offers something for everyone, in this recently renovated vaudeville theatre. The menu includes Spanish stuffed dates, Monterey squid and vegan ‘meat’ pizzas, and the small portions are a welcome way to try all the innovative delectables and the food is prepared in separate vegan and non-vegan kitchens so catering to individual food preferences is seamless. With 10,000 square feet of space and banquet pricing and drink specials for groups, Mohawk Bend is

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F : S A LT B OX .

Lobster corn dogs served with ginger remoulade are among the small plates served at San Diego’s Saltbox.

Monterey’s 1833 Restaurant, named after the building’s year of origin, is the latest in a series of restaurants to occupy the historic Stokes Adobe building, the home of former mayor James Stokes. In keeping with trend, small bites featured on the menu run the gamut from beef carpaccio to caramelized endive to hamachi crispy pork, and even bacon cheddar biscuits.

The interior is a graceful blend of modern furnishings and antique accents that pay homage to the historic building without ever feeling outdated. There are three formal dining rooms as well as a private table which are lovely selections for moderate-sized group events. “The multi-room layout, including Hattie’s Room for more intimate meetings, and the sun room with gorgeous white on white decor, are all stunning,” says Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau Representative Koleen Hamblin. “The alfresco bar with fire pits is an ideal end to a successful gathering.” In addition to the superb dishes, the creative mixology and hard to find liquors make cocktailing here a connoisseur’s dream—suffice to say, there is a separate absinthe menu.

a good choice for large events. Fireplaces, framed by a mosaic glass wall and soaring skylights make the setting memorable for any occasion.

“Mohawk Bend is an ideal place to host a variety of events. We’ve held intimate gatherings, a wedding reception and we are in the processing of planning a network television show wrap party,” says Mohawk Bend’s Event Coordinator Jenny Aaron. “The Ramona Room is very versatile in that it can be completely private with the curtains drawn or left open,” she says of the contemporary atrium with exposed brick. “It’s truly the heart of the restaurant.”

SALTBOX, SAN DIEGO The self-styled “new American gastro-lounge,” Saltbox, has recently opened in the Gaslamp district’s new Hotel Palomar. Some of the highlights of Chef Simon Dolinky’s “social plates” menu, include the “crazy pickles” dish which seamlessly blends pickled vegetables and quail eggs and the miniature corn dogs filled with shellfish sausage. Both the shrimp ceviche and stewed beef cheeks versions are refined takes on this San Diego staple. The 175-seat dual-level retreat has a sophisticated interior that creates an familiar atmosphere that can often deceive its size. In fact, Saltbox is fully equipped for private events for up to 350 guests. “We are honored to be part of the transformation of this remarkably elegant space at the cultural gateway to the historical Gaslamp district,” Mark Van Cooney, general manager of Hotel Palomar San Diego says of the new location. “We are committed to providing our guests with an authentic experience and personalized customer care.”

GROW with MPISSN at the MPISSN

2012 CONFERNCE & TRADE SHOW on March 20, 2012

BLOSSOM BY ATTENDING THE CONFERENCE Held at the Well at CSUS 1:00pm to 4:00pm CONFERENCE COURSES: · The Disaster Experience for Meeting Planners (1:00-2:45) · Be Red Cross Ready (3:00-3:45) EARLY BIRD RATE: $49 REGULAR RATE: $69 Early bird rate expires 03/13/12

THEN SPRING INTO THE TRADE SHOW Held at the Alumni Center 4:00pm to 7:00pm FREE TO MEMBERS & NON-MEMBER PLANNERS

WHERE: California State University, Sacramento The Well and Alumni Center State University Drive South · Sacramento, CA 95819 Phone: 916.278.6295

GET CONNECTED PARALLEL 37 // San Francisco 415.773.6168 / www.parallel37sf.com MONTEREY 1833 // Los Angeles 831.643.1833 www.1833monterey.com MOHAWK BEND Los Angeles / 213.483.2337 / www.mohawk.la SALTBOX // San Diego 619.515.3003 / www.saltboxrestaurant.com

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{TABLESCAPE}

RUSTIC CHIC

Using fresh-from-the-forest touches, a living table top is created.

BY KIRA COPLIN

PHOTOS BY ZACH COCO

For a small dinner party in the private room and Chef’s Table at Hollywood’s Public Kitchen & Bar, Pollen Botanical Design’s Craig Powell created a tabletop guests would remember. Mixing and matching elements to correspond with the already present living walls of succulents and other greenery, the rustic chic concept was brought to life.

INSPIRATION: “I think interesting design mixes the like with the unorthodox elements,” Powell says. “With proper thought and execution, opposites attract.” Powell designed the table with his two favorite places in mind—the ultra-glam Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel and the laidback Big Island wonders of Hawaii.

THE DETAILS: To create the tablescape, Powell mixed lush tropical orchids with scented blooms and combined them with unusual elements such as moss, echevaria and exotic strains of tillandsia (air plants). Sweet peas, soap and verailia roses in hues of peach provided contrasting accent colors for depth and dimension. A variety of mosses and willow branches were used in the table’s center.

Powell created “botanical boards” for each place setting out of restored planks from a barn in central California. “Cleaned and finished with

moss on the side, they create a charger,” he explains. Placed atop each botanical board are individual bud vases with lavender sweet peas, a floral fresh orchid pin and a dramatic napkin presentation.

A unique twist on setting a napkin, Powell implemented handmade napkin cuffs made from Indian beaded trim to add a touch of shimmer and elegance to the table. To finish things off, Powell gave it a magical glow by using oil lamp inserts in mason jars with different sized rims. The living wall was accented with clumps of moss and a floral tower featuring ghost wood, tillandsias and a giant Star of Bethlehem. “This finished our look by incorporating the entire room,” said Powell.

DESIGN TIP: “Remember that not everything living or botanical is a flower so expand your horizons and think outside the box when it comes to design elements.”

the vendors DESIGNER CRAIG POWELL, POLLEN BOTANICAL DESIGN 323.550.1555 www.pollenstudio.com VENUE PUBLIC KITCHEN & BAR (WITHIN THE ROOSEVELT HOTEL) 323.466.7000 LINENS CRATE & BARREL www.crateandbarrel.com STATIONERY INVITATIONS AND PLACE CARDS FROM PAPETERIE www.papeteriestore.com

the menu Eclectic offerings from Executive Chef Tim Goodell round out the menu at Public Kitchen & Bar:

eat: Chicken liver terrine with kumquat marmalade and grilled rustic bread; Chicharrones with chili's and lime; Potato tart with caramelized onions and pancetta; Crispy oxtail galette with poached farm egg and frisée; Spiced duck steak leg confit with caramelized turnips and Duroc pork schnitzel with arugula salad.

drink: Cucumber Collins, Elderflower Bellini, It's All Good

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venueREPORT

CLASSICALLY ELEGANT VENUES A S H L E Y H E AT O N

Located in the Historic Core of Downtown Los Angeles, the recently renovated Vibiana features upgraded amenities.

BEAUTIFUL VENUES HAVE AN UNCANNY ABILITY to make memorable occasions even more special. This rings particularly true in modern, minimal California, where an elegant, opulent setting truly stands out from the crowd. These uniquely stylish spaces are sure to make any event unforgettable.

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P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F : C A L L AWAY G A B L E P H O T O G R A P H Y.

Inject a dose of refinement and style to your next event. B Y

O F F I C E C E L E B R AT I O N S B U C A - S T Y L E

We’ll put you ON A PEDESTAL

just like you dserve!

WHETHER YOU CELEBRATE AT BUCA OR AT THE OFFICE,

WE’LL TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOU. Special Banquets & Party Packages Available

CALL YOUR LOCAL SALES MANAGER TO BOOK YOUR OFFICE CELEBRATION TODAY bucadibeppo.com Anaheim - 714.740.2822 • Brea - 714.529.6262 • Campbell - 408.377.7722 • Carlsbad - 760.479.2533 Claremont - 909.399.3287 • Encino - 818.995.3288 • Huntington Beach - 714.891.4666 Irvine - 714.665.0800 • Mira Mesa - 858.536.2822 • Palo Alto - 650.329.0665 Pasadena - 626.792.7272 • Redondo Beach - 310.540.3246 • Roseville - 916.771.9463 Sacramento - 916.922.6673 • San Diego - 619.233.7272 • San Francisco - 415.543.7673 San Jose - 408.226.1444 • Santa Monica - 310.587.2782 • Thousand Oaks - 805.449.3688 Universal Citywalk - 818.509.9463 • Valencia - 661.253.1900

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Sacramento’s Citizen Hotel boasts 11,000 square feet of flexible meeting and conference facilities.

GET CONNECTED BENTLY RESERVE San Francisco 415.294.2226 www.bentlyreserve.com CITIZEN HOTEL Sacramento 916.447.2700 www.citizenhotel.com VIBIANA Los Angeles 213.626.1507 www.vibianala.com GREYSTONE MANSION Beverly Hills 310.285.6830 www.greystonemansion.org

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Updated Elegance

Historic Landmarks

Northern California’s most magnificent venues merge a contemporary sensibility with Old World charm.

The Bently Reserve, housed in San Francisco’s former Federal Reserve Bank, maintains the original building’s 1920s period details while incorporating state-of-theart technology and environmentally friendly upgrades.

The infinitely customizable nature of its largest space, The Banking Hall, appeals to many event planners.

“For one event in the Banking Hall, a food-show style kitchen was installed, and Paula Deen gave a cooking demonstration to about 400 guests,” Bentley Reserve Events and Sales Manager Vivian Perez divulges. “We also had a movie screening, in which a screen and beds were brought into the room, so guests could watch the movie as if from the comfort of their room.” The Reserve also offers eight boardrooms ranging in capacity from 10 to 80 people.

Sacramento’s boutique Citizen Hotel is home to two separate venues. Both the stately Plaza Park Ballroom and the sleek rooftop Metropolitan Terrace provide ample room for up to 200 guests. The Citizen also offers a plethora of personalized event services, including the popular Citizen Wedding Package. A farm-fresh event catering menu is provided by the hotel’s Grange Restaurant & Bar.

Vibiana, the 136-year-old former Cathedral of St. Vibiana, was reborn as an event site in 2005. Since then, the utterly fantastical, yet unexpectedly practical venue has hosted events from concerts to masquerade galas. Event Producer Brian Worley, whose firm YourBash! has produced parties for American Idol and the EMMY Awards, names Vibiana as a favorite venue. “It is a stunning setting that really allows me to create unique spaces,” Worley notes.

“Vibiana is so large that you can literally transform it into anything you want; and with the white walls, you can do magic with the lighting.”

Greystone Mansion, built in 1927 by the son of oil magnate Edward Laurence Doheny, boasts a similarly colorful past. The Beverly Hills estate has been used as a film backdrop since the 1950s and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

Today, the mansion’s 12-acre outdoor event space offers a quiet, pastoral respite from the bustling city it overlooks. Greystone is comprised of the lush, green Formal Gardens—designated exclusively for wedding ceremonies—and three other English Garden-inspired reception areas, ranging in capacity from 60 to 200.

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P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F : S A R A H M A R E N P H OTO G R A P H Y; T R U E LOV E P H OTO.

venueREPORT

DESTINATION A PLACE in the SUN Known as a posh playground for the Hollywood elite, Palm Springs shows its professional side.

BY KIRA COPLIN

WELLKNOWN AS A DESTINATION FOR FIRSTCLASS HOTELS, modern architecture and endless days of sun, Palm Springs and its surrounding areas offer a variety of options for your next off-site event. Though the area is commonly referred to as simply, “Palm Springs,” the famous desert destination actually consists of nine distinct cities. With a collective hospitality scene that continues to grow, the municipalities that make up Greater Palm Springs include Desert Hot Springs, Rancho Mirage, Indio, Palm Desert, Cathedral City, La Quinta, Coachella and Indian Wells.

Thanks to Amtrak rail service and three airports that service the area, Greater Palm Springs is perfectly positioned to serve large markets throughout California and beyond. “For a small community we offer a diverse array of activities, venues, hotels and restaurants,” says Beth Daniel, DMCP, Senior Sales Manager at ACCESS Destination Services. “One of the best aspects is the ease of travel through our resort-port and the ease of navigating through the valley with no traffic and the beauty surrounding you.”

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“Our room rates are still very competitive and because the valley is somewhat contained in a small area and groups are not forced to drive 45 minutes for airport transfers or to visit venues and attractions,” Daniel says of the value that event planners can expect. “In most cases the groups travel 15 to 20 minutes maximum to reach their destination.”

With its funky furnishings and lush landscape, the Parker Palm Springs is a delight for the senses. Spread over 13 acres, the hotel boasts plenty of room for any meeting or event.

All event spaces, including a new 6,000-squarefoot building, feature natural light. Spaces featuring exclusive lawn and garden areas, such as the Grand Ballroom, provide the perfect

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F : PA R K E R PA L M S P R I N G S .

With 13 acres and 144 rooms, the Parker Palm Springs caters to both large and small business gatherings.

backdrop for ceremonies, banquets and cocktail parties. “The food is amazing, the service is the best, the property is pristine and the grounds well-tended,” says Joey Lizotte, owner of the Palm Springs-based ARTISAN Event Floral Decor. “I recommend this property to a group whenever I can as I know that every one of their needs will be met.”

Centrally located in Old Palm Springs Village, The Willows Historic Palm Springs Inn is one of the city’s oldest sites. Refined and steeped in old-school glamour, The Willows Inn and the O’Donnell House at The Willows are available as a conference site and venue for weddings, corporate meetings, family gatherings and other events. “The building is historic and so well maintained, and the staff is beyond words,” says Lizotte, who has planned a myriad of events there. “Sitting on the side of a mountain, the views of the entire valley are more than amazing. Nighttime at the O’Donnell House is out of this world. As a back drop… it doesn’t get any better.” The properties are flanked with desert gardens, a veranda and a waterfall and can be combined for larger parties. The Willows closes its doors to the public during events to guarantee the privacy and comfort of its guests. Events scheduled on

INSPIRATIONAL MEETINGS. SINGULAR EXPERIENCES. AN EXTRAORDINARY DESTINATION.

Make Your Meeting an Unforgettable Experience!

La Quinta Resort & Club is where memories and experiences are created.

The resort offers flexible indoor and outdoor meeting options with breathtaking vistas of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Many of the most successful meetings are a result of the quality and enjoyment of the activities after a full day of meetings. We offer a wide variety to choose from such as our five highly rated golf courses, our award-winning Spa La Quinta, a tennis program featuring 23 tennis courts run by former Davis Cup Captain and player, Tom Gorman and five unique culinary options. Call us about your next Experience…

On The Fly Palm Springs Regional Airport (PSP) is serviced by major carriers like Allegiant, American Airlines, Sun Country, United Airlines and US Airways. Groups traveling from LAX, John Wayne Airport/Orange County and San Diego International Airport can expect an easy, two-hour drive. Desert Valley Shuttle provides scheduled service to and from the major airports in Southern California, as well as transport to all major resort hotels in the Palm Springs area. To book, call 800.413.3999.

What’s New… Increasing the number of flights to Coachella Valley, Virgin America recently celebrated the launch of its new nonstop and through-flight seasonal service to PSP. Offering travelers low-fare, stylish service, the California-based carrier’s seasonal daily flight schedule operate from mid-December to April 30th.

49-499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta, California 92253 (760) 564-7602 www.laquintaresort.com groupsales@laquintaresort.com

A unique venue for any group from 15 to 2,000, with 56,000 square feet of enclosed, air-conditioned space housing over 25 vintage aircraft and exhibits available for you, day or night.

And you can expand your event to the 40,000 square feet of exterior space facing the Palm Springs Airport and San Jacinto Mountain.

760-778-6262 ext 223 Jeff@PalmSpringsAirMuseum.org www.PalmSpringsAirMuseum.org

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DESTINATION a weekend require a full buy-out of the eight-room hotel, with a minimum of a two-night stay.

Private, quaint venues can be hard to come by when dealing with groups of up to 350. Thankfully, Cary Grant’s Movie Colony Estate is now available as an event space to solve that problem. The 1.5-acre historic Palm Springs landmark is a private, lush sanctuary with plenty of room for large parties (the front lawn comfortably accommodates 350 guests, while the backyard fits 180). Tucked among rose gardens, citrus trees, green palms and cacti, the Andalusian-style home offers several site options, making it a top choice for events of all sizes and types. The Great Room offers the largest indoor space for parties and private dinners, seating 60 to 90 comfortably. Other areas on the estate, like the art studio, make for perfect break-out spaces.

New on the scene, LuLu has quickly become a favorite among industry professionals when to comes to dining. “LuLu has a large space that’s good for group dining,” explains Hillary Angel, public relations manager for Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism.

In addition to the restaurant space, LuLu also offers off-site catering. Specializing in the production of original concepts and designs, their portfolio features highly styled intimate gatherings and elaborate galas and everything in between. Though there are

several menu options to choose from, planners may also request one that’s personalized to accommodate party size, tastes and budget.

GET CONNECTED VIRGIN AMERICA 877.359.8474 / www.virginamerica.com DESERT VALLEY SHUTTLE 800.413.3999 / www.palmspringsshuttle.com PARKER PALM SPRINGS 760.770.5000 / www.theparkerpalmsprings.com DESERT SPRINGS JW MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA 888.236.2427 / www.marriott.com ESCENA GOLF CLUB 760.778.2737 / www.escenagolf.com THE WILLOWS HISTORIC PALM SPRINGS INN 760.320.0771 / www.thewillowspalmsprings.com TWO BUNCH PALMS RESORT AND SPA 760.329.8791 / www.twobunchpalms.com THE CARY GRANT ESTATE 760.904.0200 / www.carygrantestate.com LULU CALIFORNIA BISTRO 760.327.5858 / www.lulupalmsprings.com

Ready, Set, Putt! the game of golf has long been used to boost corporate morale and strengthen business relationships. Known for its world-class golf courses and resorts, the Palm Springs region offers more than 100 exceptional places to play. With two award-winning 18-hole championship courses and an exceptional tournament & Guest Service Program, the Palm desert Golf Courses at JW Marriott desert Springs Resort are perfect for events both large and small. From pre-event planning, catering, on-course photography and event promotion services including the coordination of pairings, scorecards and carts, the pro staff tends to every detail of an outing. With 833 guest rooms and more than 100,000 square feet of meeting and event space, the resort is also a great place to stay. “the JW Marriott desert Springs continues to raise the bar to provide great service and a fresh product,” daniel says, “Guests love the centralized gathering area.”

In Palm Springs, the hip escena Golf Club with its Nicklaus design course and strikingly modern club house, is also known for its first-rate meetings and special events service. escena’s main dining room, outdoor patio, lakeside event lawn and a private dining room (that holds up to 250) within the club house provide planners with plenty of options for pre- or post-game gatherings. When it comes to golf, escena’s tournament coordinators are on-hand to assist planners with pairings, contests and prizes. the course an even be configured to a planner’s exact specifications to accommodate a range of skill sets.

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Planning Golf events avoid stress overload by checking these important to-do items off your list early on. r Begin preparations as early as possible.

Six months in advance is ideal with three months being the absolute minimum. r Finding a location.

Start visiting golf sites right away to root out the one that offers all the amenities you need.

Make sure to inspect clubhouse locker rooms, meeting facilities and the course to make sure they are sufficient and up to expectations. r Book it. Before signing contracts, double confirm the availability of golf rentals, carts and equipment, as well as the course’s maintenance schedule. r Begin drafting an event schedule with tee times in mind. traditional group start times are held at either 8 a.m. or 1 p.m. r Conclude your budget, making sure all green fees (per person) and gratuities have been accounted for. r Finalize food and beverage functions.

Budget for open bar and beverage cart expenses, as well as meals.

Counteract larger expenses by opting for a continental breakfast buffet and box lunches to keep spending under control. [ ] Create a mock pairing sheet two weeks before the event in case changes need to be made. Final confirmation (numbers of participants and foursome pairings) are expected one to three days before the outing, depending on the course.

When was the last time you stepped out of a convention into a desert oasis?

This is a different sort of place. A place you can fly in, check in, and get to your meeting in a half-hour. Just one short mile from the Palm Springs International Airport, you’ll find a world-class facility, 1,600 hotel rooms within walking distance and 150,000 sq. ft. of meeting space.

But you’ll also find a spectacular desert setting you just won’t find anywhere else. Gorgeous mountains as your meeting’s backdrop. And ideal weather for almost anything from golf to swimming to horseback riding.

It’s not often that outside your meeting is every bit as inspiring as inside. But it is here.

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8UPCOMING HOSTED-BUYER CITY EVENTS EVENTS COMING IN 2012 Atlanta, GA September 2011 For more information, visit

www.meetings4you.com Los Angeles, CA to October see our2011 line-up of upcoming hosted buyer events.

Boston, MA November 2011

Technology tips, tools and trends from A to Z. You don’t need to read the writing on the wall to know that while the core purpose of meeting remains the same, technology has had a significant impact on the industry. Although technology topics are a staple on agendas at professional conventions and conferences, it’s a challenge for busy planners to keep up with the rapid pace of change and new options.

To help, we compiled 26 technology tips, tools and trends from A to Z for today’s meetings and events. by Robert Luce & Cathleen Hagan

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APPS Software applications typically used on smartphones and other mobile devices—made a lot of top ten lists this year as important technology for meetings and events, whether used for sharing information with attendees, locating linen rental or the closest restaurant with a private dining room, or maybe a little mental diversion with Angry Birds. ¶ Many apps are reasonably priced or even free—unless you’re considering a customized app for your event. “A stand-alone app would be more expensive than an app within an app, since it would involve creating the whole app structure, instead of building upon an existing one,” explains Aron Ezra, CEO of Bally Mobile, the mobile software developer that built the app recently launched at the Rancho La Puerta. “Costs vary by included features and platforms, but start at over $10,000 for an event. For a venue like the Rancho La Puerta, they would pay a monthly subscription fee.” www.ballytech.com, www.rancholapuerta.com

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D Back to school.

Dropbox is a web-based file sharing service that allows users to collaborate on and have access to the same projects and documents anywhere, anytime, even offline. It works across multiple operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux, smartphones) and is free for up to 2 GB; subscriptions for up to 100 GB available. www.dropbox.com

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F : A M WAY G R A N D .

In today’s social mediacharged world, getting a degree from the Social Media Academy could be almost as valuable as that CMP. Education programs are specifically designed for business professionals from all industries and cover strategy development, planning, tools selection and more. socialmedia-academy.com

CVENT, the world’s largest provider of online event management, meeting site selection and web survey solutions, has a free eBook, Event Marketing 2.0: How to Boost Event Attendance through Social Media, that provides the practical tips and best practices for planners to effectively market their events through social media. www.cvent.com

Eat and meet

via high-definition video conferencing in a private dining room at more than 100 Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Mitchell’s Fish Market locations across the country, including California (their busiest times for conferences are from March until August). “It’s been very beneficial for us,” says Vanessa Lee, private dining manager at the Ruth’s Chris Steak House in San Francisco. “We just did one for a pharmaceutical company this past November that was broadcast [via satellite] to 60 locations.” www.ruthchris.com, www.mitchellsfishmarket.com

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Greenvelope is a new e-vite provider that offers a great “Business Collection” of classy designs, or users can upload their own. For $139, planners can send e-vites to up to 300 contacts; the package includes envelopes, save the date cards, invitations, response cards, an event details page and thank you notes (special pricing available for more than 300 contacts). Ten percent of the package price is donated to a greenway preservation project in Washington. More partner charities are being added. www.greenvelope.com

Foursquare.

>

Be a mayor for a day with this locationbased mobile platform that makes cities easier to use and more interesting to explore. By “checking in” via a smartphone app or text messaging, users share their location with friends while collecting points and virtual badges. Planners are using it for scavenger hunts and to encourage more interaction between attendees. foursquare.com

iPad.

Thanks to its efficient applications and speed, the iPad is quickly overtaking the bulky laptop.

“We utilize the Facetime application with our clients that are out of town or too busy to meet in person,” says Misty Schwartz, CEO of Extreme Public Relations. “It is the best thing on the market to increase productivity for independent business professionals.” Self-service event and ticketing website Eventbrite’s new iPad app helps event planners to organize and manage their event from any location.”Using Eventbrite for Craigslist Foundation’s 6th Annual Boot Camp was a great experience,” says Arthur Coddington, senior program manager at the Craigslist Foundation.

“Nonprofit organizations of all sizes will benefit from the ease of use, cost effectiveness, and comprehensive feature set.” www.apple.com/ipad www.eventbrite.com

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p h oto Co u r t E sy o f : A p p l E .

Planners know they should be using social media; we know from talking to them that many are so busy they find it hard to keep up with all the different channels. Hootsuite is a social media dashboard that lets you monitor and post to several networks, including Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and more, from one website. Also offers custom analytics. The basic service is free. www.hootsuite.com

New careers.

JALAPPENO.COM, a new tech firm in Birmingham, Mich. that created the app for this year’s Mackinac Policy Conference, builds custom mobile apps for a one-time set-up fee of $549, plus a monthly maintenance charge.

Just as technology has created new tools for planning and promoting events, it has created new career paths as well. “Several years ago, I met my publicist and it opened up a whole new realm of marketing ideas and concepts,” says Arsineh Alenkin, online event planner for AB Weddings & Special Events. Now she’s utilizing several social media outlets to help promote and sell her events—such as her Black & White Grammy Charity Event. “The Grammy event will be promoted online but will be an actual live event,” says Alenkin. “After the live event, we will take the event ‘virtual’ by allowing people to bid on items autographed by celebrities to benefit American Soldier Network.”

KRISAM GROUP AND GLOBAL EVENTS PARTNERS in conjunction with Sonic Foundry, IEP and Maritz Travel, give planners “The Nuts and Bolts of Virtual Events” in a free webinar series. The fourpart series provides a complete overview for planning hybrid and virtual events, including choosing the right technologies, the reasons to explore virtual and an in-depth review of meetings that have done it right. To register, visit http://bit.ly/hDL593

P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F : O N 24 .

LINKEDIN now has a free app for iPhone, Blackberry, Android and more. “I use it the same way I use Twitter for connecting to clients and promoting my events and business,” says Sherry Busler, customer service manager of Universal Forms and Systems. www.linkedin.com/mobile

MEETINGAPPS.COM. This online portal features a comprehensive list of mobile applications available to meeting and event professionals in a variety of categories, including meeting management, conferences, ground transportation, green tools and more.

ON24 provides webcasting and virtual environments for training, conferences, meetings, expos and trade shows. “It takes a great deal of time and effort to stage a professional virtual event,” says Tricia Heinrich, senior director, strategic communications at On24. “We recommend a 12-week planning cycle to fully account for all the content creation tasks and promotion necessary and produce a professional show.” “The Oracle Partner eXpo Online—a free virtual trade show— provided a venue for partners to expand their Oracle education and footprint,” says Ted Bereswill, senior vice president, Oracle North America Alliances and Channels. “The trade show also helped to showcase their solutions and expand business prospects across a diverse partner network without the expense of time and travel.” www.on24.com

PAPER PASSÉ? >> With all the other options available—online

registration, evites, Facebook event pages—are paper invitations passé? “We only use the e-vite for our charity poker event,” says Marlene McGuirt, director of development for The Alliance for Children’s Rights. “We send out sponsorship flyers for all our other events.

Hard copies help spread awareness to all generations.” “It’s easy for an supportive e-vite to end up in a person’s spambox,” says Carroll Jenkins, executive director of Cystic Fibrosis Research, Inc. “A hard copy mailer comes to your home and ends up on your desk or kitchen table. Having that information right there in your hand is going to have an impact.”

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SOCIAL MeDIA.

QR CODES.

>

Chances are you’re seeing more of these little boxes made of black and white pixels, and for good reason. Quick Response, or QR, codes are another fun and free way to disseminate information.

Users can generate and print their own QR codes for smartphones to scan and use by visiting one of several free QR code generating sites or apps.

RAVN.COM is a new comprehensive online activities search and booking engine. It enables users to discover, compare and book every possible thing they could be doing in their city right now through their extensive database of over 14,000 activities.

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Okay, you know how to create a Facebook page for your event, how to use a Twitter hashtag so attendees can find your tweets and how to post a video of your keynote speaker on YouTube. Here are some other uses for social media you may not have thought of.

Keep the buzz going. Using TweetReach.com, a Twitter analytics tool, is something Red Door Interactive director of digital analytics, Michele Hinojosa, strongly suggests. Speaking to TakeFive with TweetReach, she explains consistency in measurement, “While social analytics often starts as just “likes” and “followers” for companies, pretty soon executives are trying to tie this to actual business value, and look at social media in the context of other marketing initiatives,” she says. “Profit or revenue driven [initiatives] are standardized and can apply across all channels, including social. However, let’s be honest: sometimes that’s hard to measure! It involves tying together different data sources, understanding attribution, and trying to measure what may sometimes be unmeasurable.” Red Door Interactive’s client’s include Cricket Wireless, Univision and Petco.

Leverage LinkedIn. Using LinkedIn effectively is essential for Kristina Maez’s business. “You should utilize it everyday and incorporate it into your daily routine,” advised Maez, sales manager at Print Large Digital. “Always make sure your profile sounds professional,” she advises. “While the networking is free, sending the wrong message with your profile can cost you.” Be selective about your connections as well.

“I only search and look to connect with local people in my industry,” says Maez. “But I always do my research on them before connecting.”

Or can add a bullet point on social media groups for planners: LinkedIn, #eventprofs on Twitter, etc.

Track YOUR Mac. Log on to Hidden after your iMac or MacBook goes missing and this app will locate it anywhere on the planet, take pictures of the thief using it and screenshots so you know what they’re up to.

They’ll even work with the police to help you recover it. Pricing plans start at $15 year for one computer. hiddenapp.com

WINTER 2012

Unlock the future.

The Wall Street Journal recently reported on new technology being tested that will do away with hotel key cards in favor of: Permanent cards issued to frequent guests that use radio-frequency identification. Cellphones: Dial an assigned number, hold the phone to your door lock and a tone unlocks it.

VIRTUAL REALITY.

P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F : I N X P O.

Virtual reality. What is planning a virtual trade show like? Surprisingly, not a whole lot different from an “in-person” trade show.

“Planning virtual shows are basically the same as live shows—except that you need to make it more visually appealing,” says Arsineh Alenkin, event planner at AB Weddings & Special Events. “You’re still presenting your message to a specific and targeted audience.

Pricing and elements remain the same, but since this is a virtual show, all your marketing should be done through e-mail and social media networks such as Facebook.” “Virtual partner expos enable enterprises and their partners to share knowledge and best practices,” says Tricia Heinrich, senior director, strategic communications at On24. “They provide a forum that facilitates team communication. Partners often prefer to meet virtually because virtual events save time and reduce costs, provide more opportunities for interaction and are more convenient.” On24 has sponsored a “Virtual Events for Dummies” special edition that has been hugely popular and is available for free at the following link: http://communication.on24.com/virtualeventsfordummies

WALKING TOURZ2GO. Neatly package your next meeting or event onto a colorful, customized MP3 player from Tourz2Go.com. In addition to a unique walking tour of your host city, these unique MP3 gifts can include a customized message from a CEO or other executive, meeting presentations and other materials. Price for the new, reusable MP3 players that come with a USB connector range from $15-$25 each. www.tourz2go.com

X IS FOR APEX. There are a lot of meeting and event planning software programs out there, but if you want to be sure you’re following the standards being set by the Convention Industry Council, you want the APEX Meeting and Event Toolbox 3.0 by OfficeReady. Includes housing forms, rooming lists and event specs, plus automated APEX document templates such as RFPs, post-event reports and more. $99.95. www.conventionindustry.org

YOUTUBE shows no signs of deflating when it comes to promoting meetings, events and organizations; simply type in search term like “California conference” for examples of who is using it and how. The holy grail of course is seeing your video go “viral,” like Randy Pausch’s “The Last Lecture: Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams”, now at more than fourteen million views and counting. www.youtube.com

WINTER 2012

ZUKU. Remember when audiencepolling keypads were the hot new thing? Now there are mobile apps like Zuku that do the same thing—allow users via text messaging to anonymously ask questions, send comments or respond to polls or surveys—only cheaper. www.ezuku.com

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EMERGING ANTIQUE EVENT RENTALS AND SERVICES PROVE THAT OLD-FASHIONED ELEGANCE IS STILL ALL THE RAGE.

From “Mad Men”-inspired backdrops and designs to Prohibition cocktail trends, retro style is everywhere—and that includes the world of special events. As one of the leading party trends in 2012, vintage event decor and prop rental resources are popping up all over California. Want to add a retro touch to your next event? Read on for the latest trends, coolest services and best-kept tips and secrets straight from the pros.

BY KIRA COPLIN

WINTER 2012

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BERKELEY Owner/Lead Designer: Johnelle Mancha

Thinking Outside the Guest Book Surprise guests with a fun, old-school twist on the classic guest book. A fresh idea from vintage typewriter resellers Brady & Kowalski allows party guests to leave antiqueinspired messages for event hosts.

Their guest book ‘kit’ includes a refurbished and functional typewriter with 50 sheets of custommonogrammed stationery. Orders take about a month to arrive and are shipped all over the state of California for $35. (www.bradykowalski.com)

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In a Nutshell: With a strong focus on affordable, custom revamped furniture pieces, upholstery and interior design, Mignonne has a core collection of items always available for rent. “The basis of our rental service is the option for brides and wedding planners to work with us on customizing pieces for their event,” Mancha explains. With a background in art and design, Mignonne’s owner visits France a couple times a year to scour the countryside for treasures.

“With so many eclectic, one-of-a-kind pieces we are in furniture heaven,” says Emily and Megan, the wedding designers of Bay Areabased Enjoy Events Co. planning + design company. “Nothing makes us happier than when we get to design events with a little added spunk to them. From the bright pops of color to the pattern, who doesn’t want all this

POW WOW SAN DIEGO Designer/Owner: Melissa Strukel In a Nutshell: Pow Wow offers unique, custom, and one-of-a-kind furnishings for events of all kinds. A family run business, Pow Wow’s wide inventory selection ranges from vintage china and glassware to church pews.

“I named my business Pow Wow because it’s a fun way to describe an event where people gather to dance, sing and celebrate,” Strukel says. After studying interior design and architecture at the Design Institute of San Diego, the designer brings her knowledge of space planning and design to every job.

“I have used Pow Wow numerous times, and will use them every time I have the opportunity,” says Southern California-based Moments of Magic Designer/Coordinator, Brenda Kasesler.

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goodness in their home or for your wedding?”

Known For: Quality, custom furniture restoration. “The option to have us customize vintage furniture is available for event rentals.

For example, if you knew that your dream cake table was a vintage drop leaf in a sea foam blue, we could customize a piece that fit this design for your day,” Mancha says of the service. “Pick a color..pick the pop!”

Rarities: “Our vintage blue French settee,” Mancha says. “It photographs so well, and can me mixed in all different styles—rustic chic, modern glam, bohemian, you name it.”

Expert Design Advice: A wedding, or special event is the time to make a statement all your own. Because events are usually a oneday affair, have fun and take risks. You’ll get your guests talking and have memories galore.

Prices: Furniture can range anywhere from $65 for a side table to $550 for larger pieces.

Upholstered chairs and couches can range from $295 to $2,000. Mignonne works with all different budgets; contact directly for a quote.

“One bride wanted a vintage backyard picnic feel and the other was looking for a rustic vibe.

Melissa worked with me in the design for both.

She has artistic ideas and is very committed to making sure we get the feel we are going for. I love having her on my design team, because I can count on her.”

Known For: Strukel’s custom designs and hand-built pieces. “The white bench is a custom made piece I built, along with the pallet table in front.”

Rarities: “For fun, I have a teepee in my inventory.”

Prices: Furniture rentals range from $5 to $15 for Farmhouse chairs, $25 to $75 for upholstered chairs, $35 to $85 for tables and $35 to $100 for benches and pews. Prices for table top items such as vintage mismatched china, flatware and goblets range from .50 to $2 per piece.

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F : J E N N I F E R E I L E E N P H O T O G R A P H Y.

MIGNONNE DECOR

MIGNONNE DECOR

All Blown Up Jubilant, lofty balloon installations from Geronimo! Balloon Company pack a playful punch when it comes to livening up event spaces. Newbie vendor, Jihan Zencirli opened up her one-woman company just less than a year ago at the edge of Los Angeles’ Industrial District. Working out of a studio and workshop on Seaton Street, Zencirli crafts creative and custom orders in a variety of colors and sizes that include decorations made from hand-cut and vintage paper, Mylar streamers, fine French ribbon, accordion tissue and more. “My own personal style is somewhere between the intersection of modern and vintage,” Zencirli says. “What I feel I’ve done is not invented a new party decoration, but instead have just innovated it with a few changes, appealing to adults delighted by the remembrance of youth, but with a sophisticated and visual twist.”

Need something decadent? The Certified Balloon-Trooper, dusted in 24 carat gold gilt and diamonds, makes for conversation-worthy center pieces.

Planners can request any color combination from 80 different palettes for both the balloons and decorative elements. Need a hand? Geronimo also offers party-planning and event services ranging from the initial concept to the invitations and beyond.

Take advantage of Geronimo’s recycling program and earn a credit toward your next event order. Deflated balloons and fringe returned in good, reusable conditions are donated to L.A.’s public schools for art projects and fun. www. geronimoballoons.com

ONE TRUE LOVE VINTAGE RENTALS SAN FRANCISCO

P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F : ( O P P O S I T E PA G E ) G E R O N I M O B A L L O O N S ; ( C L O C K W I S E F R O M T O P L E F T ) O N E T R U E L O V E V I N TA G E R E N TA L S ; A M A N D A PA U L W E D D I N G P H O T O G R A P H Y ; L O R I PA L A D I N O P H O T O G R A P H Y ; K AT E H A R R I S O N P H O T O G R A P H Y.

Owner: Amanda O’Shannessy In a Nutshell: A boutique rental company, One True Love Vintage Rentals offers a curated collection of vintage goods ranges from “smalls” (think vintage clocks, books and cake stands) to large furniture pieces like hutches, sofas and farm tables. More than half of their eclectic blend of vintage, rustic and handcrafted rentals for weddings, events and photo shoots are imported directly from France. “The rest of our collection consists of family heirlooms, primitive furniture and pieces with an industrial edge to them,” states O’Shannessy. In addition to rentals they also provide event styling, delivery, set-up and tear-down throughout Northern California.

“As an event designer, being able to utilize pieces that can be used for dessert displays, special vignettes, or odds and ends are key to making a statement at a wedding or event,” says Event Designer Mary Phan of Alamedabased Very Merry Events. “For example, we are doing a dessert station for an upcoming wedding and using Amanda’s large green hutch—perfect in color and has lots of shelves for displaying great desserts, cakes, candies, snacks, you name it.”

Known For: Custom searches. “If we don’t have that perfect piece for our client’s next event or photo shoot? Well, we hunt it down!”

Thanks to strong relationships with local collectors and craftsmen, One True Love strives to fulfill even the most out-there must-have requests.

Rarities: The vintage letter collection. “These treasures, which come in many different sizes and colors, come from variety of places: old movie marquees, discarded business signs, and vintage children’s games just to name a few,” explains O’Shannessy. “Letters are a great addition to event decor because they are so versatile and unique. Planning a baby shower? Spell out a warm wish for the mom-to-be. Throwing an engagement party? Have the couple’s initials on display. The possibilities are pretty much endless.”

ONE TRUE LOVE VINTAGE RENTALS Design Tip: “When it comes to design don’t be afraid to mix different styles,” O’Shannessy says. “Pairing the old with the new keeps design fresh, interesting and very current. Our latest obsession? White lacquered furniture paired with industrial wood and metal pieces.

It’s chic but edgy.”

Prices: On average rentals range from $10 to $375. Delivery starts at $75 and increases based upon size of the overall order and miles travelled. Styling services typically range anywhere from $250 to $1,500.

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LOS ANGELES Owners: Diana and Josh Perrin In a Nutshell: Casa de Perrin is a full-service boutique rental company specializing in tabletop and decor. “We provide a certain art and soul of setting a table or decorating a room without limitations for brides, event planners, designers, photographers and private parties,” says Diana.

Known For: A vast collection of heirloom china and fun tabletop pieces, including monogrammed flatware, vintage bottles, antique salt cellars, champagne coups, Florentine trays and porcelain spoons. “Our one-of-a-kind, bohemian-

eclectic collection that spans continents, time periods and design aesthetics,” Diana says of Casa de Perrin’s ever-expanding inventory. “It’s like Martha Stewart’s prop room time-traveled back through the decades and delivered all the goods directly to our showroom.”

Rarities: A large and unique typography collection. “We probably have enough turn of the century typeface to print a few chapters of War and Peace,” jokes Diana.

Expert Design Advice: “To warm up any space, layer vintage rugs and runners…the more worn they are, the better a story they’ll tell.”

Prices: To obtain a quote, email info@ casadeperrin.com.

Milk Glass Vintage Rentals 925.998.3491 www.milkglass vintagerentals.com

SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA Owner/Lead Stylist: PJ Rude

One True Love Vintage Rentals 239.209.7654 www.onetruelove vintage.com Found Vintage Rentals 714.888.5811 www.vintage-rentals.com

sions, produce an antiqued dresser in the exact shade of purple of your bridesmaid dresses, or build a vintage set of industrial metal letter-lites in your initials,” Rude says. “You dream it, we can create it.”

Known For: Their styling services. “Clients often have an inspiration, a vision. They can pick the hutch or the table for their vignette, but get stuck there,” says Rude, who offers full design and installation of custom vignettes. Taking the vision from idea to action, she includes all of the final accessory touches in the styling fee.

Design Tip: “My one go to design tip is risers. Creating different heights within a vignette adds so much depth and visual interest to the overall look,” says Rude. “Just add a couple of books, crates, or whatever you can find to give height to a platter and you are good to go.”

Rarities: The “created piece” category. “Our

Prices: To get quotes on rentals and styling

team can build a table to your specified dimen-

services, call PJ at 925.998.3491.

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Pow Wow Vintage Rentals 619.994.9278 www.powwow vintagerentals.com Casa de Perrin 310.463.1652 www.casadeperrin.com

MILK GLASS VINTAGE RENTALS

In a Nutshell: Flea market treasures meet family heirlooms at Milk Glass. The event rental company searches, builds, restores and styles backdrops with an eclectic array of rentals and props like tufted sofas, hodgepodge chairs, aged silver and antique tea cups. “Our inventory is never complete, we’re always adding to the list from our custom searches and created pieces to fulfill every request,” Rude says. “The styles are endless and so are our sources.”

Get Connected

Mignonne Decor 510.388.5830 www.mignonndecor.com Geronimo Balloons 425.275.3572 www.geronimo balloons.com Brady & Kowalski www.brady-kowalski.com

P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F : ( T H I S PA G E ) M I L K G L A S S V I N TA G E R E N TA L S ; ( O P P O S I T E PA G E ) C A S A D E P E R R I N .

CASA DE PERRIN

CASA DE PERRIN (ALL)

WINTER 2011

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industryUPDATE {TREND ALERT }

FOOD TRUCK REVOLUTION In 2011, street vendors accounted for a total of $1.4 billion in revenue

45%

2011

22%

37%

The popularity of food trucks has lept forward in the past five years making up 37% of the street vending industry in 2011

$1.4 billion 37%

2006

jan 2 0 1 1

18%

ZAGAT’S ADDS A FOOD TRUCK TRADITIONAL STREET VENDORS

MOBILE FOOD PREPARATION VEHICLES

1 Keys to Sucess Four ways street food vendors are making it work.

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Ability to control stock on hand.

Avoid waste, maximize revenue and reduce purchase costs.

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INDUSTRIAL CATERING VEHICLES

REVIEWS CATEGORY

2 Must have license.

Meeting all licensing requirements and regulations, including food storage and handling, vehicle or cart cleanliness and any other local council operating regulations ensure that the business will be ongoing.

3,753 PROJECTED NUMBER OF

STREET VENDORS

BY THE END OF 2011

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

Monday is the busiest day of the week for food trucks

TRENDS IMPROVED FOOD

PRESENTATION

HEALTHY MENU OPTIONS MORE VARIETY 3 Proximity to key markets.

Proximity to areas that have significant passing foot traffic or potential customers on-site maximizes potential sales.

MAJOR MARKETS

12%

18%

SHOPPING MALLS

VENUES & EVENTS

72 PERCENT OF

FOOD TRUCKS 15% CONSTRUCTION SITES

55%

A C C E P T O N LY

STREET LOCATIONS

CASH

4 Effective quality control.

Ensure that quality food and other products are always available through operating efficient ordering and storage systems.

Sources: IBISWORLD.COM, mashable.com

WINTER 2012

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industryUPDATE {DEALS}

The Best Value

Special offer from Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa >> Book a meeting between now and February 28, 2012, at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa and receive a complimentary beer and wine reception at the AAA Four Diamond resort. The two-hour reception overlooks the scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and can also include an optional catering menu should planners wish to welcome attendees with appetizers. www. lagunacliffs.com

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THE ANNENBERG RETREAT AT SUNNYLANDS TO OPEN IN FEBRUARY The former 200-acre Annenberg estate at Rancho Mirage has been converted into the Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands. The retreat will be open to the public for high-level conferences, retreats and seminars in March. The Sunnylands Center, featuring 17,000 square feet of space that includes a theater, is the newest addition to the estate. The surrounding gardens offer 1.25 miles of paths that wind around the center in which visitors can explore. The Sunnylands Center and Gardens will also be open for tours exploring the architecture, art and design of the home. www.sunnylands.org

{HOTELS & RESORTS} Sacramento International Airport receives new terminal and hotels

Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort & Spa

In the wake of the $1 billion Terminal B project at Sacramento International Airport, new hotels might also appear in the area. The Sacramento County received proposal bids for a three-and-a-half star hotel with at least 200 rooms or an alternative option of two hotels with 130 rooms in each. Although a Westin was set for the top of Terminal B, the idea fell through due to dismal revenue forecasts. The county expects to choose a developer for their latest plan in the spring. www.sacairports.org

Construction on the Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort & Spa wraps up as the slated June 2012 opening approaches. Operated by WaveCrest Hotels & Resorts, the new Hilton overlooks the Carlsbad State Beach and will feature 215 guest rooms including eight suites. The resort will have amenities including an ocean-view swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and more than 25,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and banquet facilities. www.hiltoncarlsbad.com

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P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F : S U N N Y L A N D S .

>> Visiting Long Beach? Be sure to purchase your Long Beach City Plus Pass before you do! The pass is only $30 and will give you unlimited use to discounts at over 150 merchants throughout Long Beach. The card is great for residents, merchants and fundraisers. Conference attendees can also purchase a one-month card for just $10. www. visitlongbeach.com

If variety is the spice of life, then North Lake Tahoe is a dash of cayenne. Accenting the diversity of its natural attractions is a meeting scene that’s just as vivid, with properties ranging from intimate to exquisite – including Village at Squaw Valley, Cal Neva Resort, Spa and Casino, and Cedar House Sport Hotel, just a few of the 15 properties committed to value, quality and the creation of successful events.

• Meeting venues from intimate to elaborate: 10 - 1000 people • Free professional planning services • Just a 45-minute drive to Reno-Tahoe International Airport • Frequent and affordable daily airport shuttles To submit an RFP or to download our newsletter, visit GoTahoeNorth.com/meetings or call 800.462.5196.

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industryUPDATE {HOTELS & RESORTS}

{TRAVEL}

The Westin Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego refreshed and reopened 25,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The total of 21 meeting spaces includes the California Ballroom, Garden Pavilion with city view terrace, Coronado Lounge, Pacifica Boardroom and the lobby level Library Room. This improvement comes off the hotel’s debut of its 450 modern guest rooms—the first at any Westin. www.westin. com/SanDiego

The Diva Hotel undergoes a facelift The $2 million “reinvention” of the Personality Hotels’ San Francisco location will feature designed concepts

by Edmonds + Lee Architects. Each of the 116 guest rooms will be painted in three shades of grey with plum accents and furnished by black and white pieces.

Although the “reinvention” was slated to finish by December 2011, the Diva Hotel’s special Perrier Lounge wasn’t done until January 2012. www.hoteldiva.com

Grand Hyatt San Francisco Upgrades Meeting Facilities The $14 million facility upgrades spanning over 27,000 square feet is just one of the multi-phase $70 million renovation approved for the Grand Hyatt San Francisco. Improvements include the addition of the city’s only conference threater and NanaWalls® in the Grand Foyer, making the 5,700-square-foot area accommodating for both large and small groups. grandsanfrancisco.hyatt.com

Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa Prepares for its 50th Anniversary with Deals In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa is offering $50 off per person on any activity booked now through June 30, 2012.

The resort offers more than 25,200 square feet of meeting space and “ice breaker” programs such as MapQuest—a teambuilding exercise utilizing collaboration and strategic thinking. www.hilton.com

The Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina goes green The largest green hotel in Southern California, the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina is working towards a goal to be a zero-waste facility. It adopted a food-waste recycling program that made it a Starwood Hotels and Resorts green leader. The hotel’s food scraps are now diverted to the City of San Diego’s Greenery, where restaurants and hotels are able to turn breakfast, lunch and dinner leftovers into renewable products, including compost. www.sheraton.com/sandiego

The Grand Del Mar wins Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star awards San Diego luxury hotel, The Grand Del Mar, was awarded three Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star awards.

The Grand Del Mar, which opened in October 2007, is one of five hotels in the U.S. to receive the coveted trio of top rankings for 2012. It also received the AAA Five Diamond rating for the third straight year. www.thegranddelmar.com

Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort Undergoes Renovation The renovation, which has been going on since October 2011, includes improvements to all guest suites, pool deck, exterior paint on each building and public areas such as the lobby, meeting rooms, breakfast rooms and evening reception area. The resort contains 248 suites and offers activities such as Salsa Sundays and an award-winning Sunday brunch. www.embassysuites. hilton.com/Mandalay

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John Wayne Airport Opens New Terminal C Orange County’s main airport, John Wayne, opened Terminal C to the public in November.

The 282,000-squarefoot expansion was a part of the $543 million Airport Improvement Program. The new terminal added six bridged aircraft gates, two commuter terminals, additional security checkpoints and more dining and shopping options. www.ocair.com

American Airlines Launches First Flagship Check-in at LAX Now, checking in at LAX will be easier for ConciergeKey members and customers of American Airlines’ Five Star Service. Located at the east lobby, the service includes exclusive curbside access to the facility where travelers are greeted by customer service representatives who can personally help with check-in, seat or itinerary changes and much more. The service will expand to other airports in 2012. www.aa.com

P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F : E M B A S SY S U I T E S .

Renovated meeting areas at The Westin Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego

The Ultimate, Spring Wine and Food Festival!

• • • • •

over 100 member wineries wine country cuisine live music vineyard setting $75, all inclusive

Vintners’ Visa:

Extend your stay! A four day, wine tasting pass during festival weekend to 12 participating wineries. So many to choose from! A great value at $35 each, $25 with festival ticket!

For tickets, visas, information visit

www.sbcountywines.com ON! OCATI NEW L

or call the Santa Barbara County Vintners’ Association at 805-688-0881

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industryUPDATE {PEOPLE NEWS}

{ATTRACTIONS}

SFJAZZ Center Builds Permanent Home The organization behind the San Francisco Jazz Festival is in the process of building its first permanent home at 205 Franklin St. in Hayes Valley near the Davies Symphony Hall, San Francisco Conservatory of Music and other museums. Expected to be completed in 2012, the SFJAZZ Center has been designed as a 35,000-square-foot structure that includes an auditorium seating up to 700, an 80-seat multipurpose performance and education space, three rehearsal spaces and more. www.sfjazz.org

Industry veteran Nancy Johnson was inducted as the 2012 American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) Chair at the association’s Inaugural Gala held at the Mandarin Oriental in Los Angeles. She is also the founder of Women in Lodging (WIL) and oversees business development efforts for Carlson Hotels’. Previously, she was vice president and COO at Hospitality Development Corporation.

Deborah Josue joins the Anaheim

Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau as its new western sales director for the meetings and conventions sales division. This move comes after working as a senior sales manager at the Monterey Conference Center.

The Meritage Resort and Spa is preparing to unveil its 131,000-squarefoot expansion in the spring and has brought aboard a new regional sales manager, Ellie Callihan. Callihan has more than 25 years of hospitality experience and is a certified hospitality sales professional and certified hotel administrator who formerly worked with Hilton Hotels, Choice Hotels and La Quinta.

Former director of sales and marketing at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa, Dan Shaughnessy has moved to the Anaheim Marriott. He has a total of 23 years in the hospitality industry and has spent the past 19 years with Marriott Hotels & Resorts in Southern California and Arizona.

The Island Hotel in Newport Beach named Marianne Danielson as its senior private events manager. Danielson will oversee the hotel’s off-site private events division and manage on-site functions.

Previously, she was the manager of catering and event sales at Zov’s Bistro in Tustin.

With more than 20 years of experience in the tourism and travel industry, Stacy Manzo was appointed director of sales and marketing at Hotel Valencia Santana Row in San Jose. She was most recently the director of catering and tournament events for ClubCorp at Crow Canyon Country Club in Danville.

The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance Board of Directors welcomes its new Executive Director Jennifer Porter after conducting a nationwide search. She has over 15 years of marketing experience and has worked with brands including LVMH and Reebok plus Sony Corporation of America.

The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotels welcomes Ben Trodd—the newly appointed general manager.

Serving more than 16 years at various Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts locations, he joins the Beverly Wilshire team from the Seattle location, which he opened in November 2008. The London native has guided two Four Seasons—the Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto and the Los Angeles at Beverly Hills—to receive the AAA Five Diamond Award.

{SUSTAINABILITY}

LEED-Certified Project Helps Ventura Win Arts Destination Marketing Award Ventura, “California’s new Art City,” is home to one of the nation’s first LEED-certified live-work projects and holds various art events including Ventura Music Week and the Westside ArtWalk. In August, the City of Ventura and the Ventura Visitors and Convention Bureau was recognized as an outstanding arts destination by the Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) along with Americans for the Arts. It was awarded the first Arts Destination Marketing Award at DMAI’s 97th Annual Convention in New Orleans in August. www.ventura-usa.com

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FALL 2011

A Great Escape magine the ideal blend of civilized pleasures and !unspoiled natural beauty. Picture championship golf, spectacular horseback riding and endless opportunities for rest and relaxation. Indulge yourself with the vacation of a lifetime.

Special Incentive Meetings Package Meetings Package includes: •Accommodation with wood burning fireplace •All meals •Unlimited horseback riding, golf green fees on two championship courses, fishing on our 100-acre lake, tennis and access to Alisal Fitness Center and Spa •Meeting space and basic A/V •Complimentary wireless access •Taxes and service charges $500.00 per night all inclusive – single occupancy.

Call for available dates. Holiday and weekend restrictions apply. Minimum two night stay.

Package is good for new bookings only and is limited to groups of 10 rooms or more.

1054 Alisal Road • Solvang, CA 93463 805-688-6411 • 800-425-4725 sales@alisal.com • www.alisal.com

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2011 Best of California Readers’ Choice Awards

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It was time to roll out the red carpet on October 19 for California Meetings + Events’ annual Readers’ Choice Best Of Awards at FLUXX nightclub in San Diego. More than 200 attendees cheered each other on and enjoyed a night of food and fun.

Congratulations to all our finalists and winners!

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1. The Flower Girls provided beautiful arrangements in hues of pink and purple. 2. Daymon Worldwide’s Jimme Rogers strikes a pose with friends. 3. Chelsea McMurrey and Shannon Culhane, Meeting Sites Pro Inc. 4. An array of cake pops and other sweet treats from Lavishly Sweet

by Lavish Events & Design tempted guests all night long. 5. Jamie Clave, Alisa Walsh and Jess Roth, Hard Rock Hotel San Diego. 6. Maureen Harkness and Kathy Trickey, Classic Party Rentals with Janet Elkins, EventWorks. 7. Janet Elkins, EventWorks and Judy Klinger. 8. The Crown Point Catering crew, including Lori Hastings, Victoria Hamilton and Kimberly Loughlin, smile for the camera. 9.

Kristin Helms, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego and Jaclyn Spitz, Northwestern Mutual. 10. DJ Cory Almeida set the tone for the night, spinning upbeat, get-your-toe-tapping tunes. 11. Amy Berner, Pacific Event Productions. 12. Lisa Shipley, Monterey Bay Aquarium with Heather Shipley. 13.

Darlynne and Marc Menkin with the Where Tours staff. 14. Joni Guerrier, San Diego Convention Center. 15. Joanne Mera and Amy Berner, Pacific Event Productions. 16. John Sullivan, California Meetings + Events. 17. Pierre Charmasson, Artisan Voice. 18. Cabernet short rib sliders with melted Brie cheese and spicy dill pickles were the hit of the night. 19. Event partner and host, FLUXX, went home with a readers’ choice award. –photos by Eddie Garcia III/E3 Photography.com

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Submit your meeting or event photos, along with name and contact information, to kira.coplin@tigeroak.com.

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Epicurean Entrepreneurs Ken Loyst and Michelle Metter bring wine and fine dining to San Diego and beyond.

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Many travelers come to San Diego in search of sun, sand and relaxation. Ken Loyst and Michelle Metter had a more ambitious idea.

Noticing a gap in the city’s culinary market, the founders of the luxury event agency Fast Forward Event Productions launched the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival in 2004.

“All good ideas start over a glass of wine, and so did the Festival,” Metter explains. “We noticed an unfulfilled niche in San Diego, which at our launch was one of the top 10 cities in the United States in wine consumption and home to a burgeoning culinary scene.”

Loyst and Metter were already seasoned event producers, and saw the idea as a way to combine their passion with their expertise.

Today, the festival is one of the nation’s largest luxury gastronomic events, with over 240 vendors serving over 800 different wines.

It has also become a major culinary tourism draw—almost half of its 9,000 annual attendees come from outside the San Diego area.

Event planning came naturally to both partners. Loyst began producing events to promote his magazine, Discover Diving, and soon progressed to planning other luxury events. Metter, meanwhile, says event planning is “just part of my DNA. As a child, if I wasn’t inviting people over for dinner, I was choreographing my friends in dance routines and figuring out how to charge for it. I was enterprising even then!” With Fast Forward Event productions, the team has produced events from press showcases to art fairs.

Following the success of their festival, Loyst and Metter have launched several additional local food and wine events.

Fast Forward’s agenda for 2012 includes WineRave, a nightclub-set tasting event aimed at a younger demographic; and the music festival Rhythm and Vine, which benefits the San Diego Boys and Girls’ Club. (Fast Forward Event Productions / 619.312.1212 / www. fastforwardevents.com)

P H OTO BY: P R I C I L L A G R AG G .

peoplePROFI LE

BUSINESS MEETINGS

Reined to Pleasue…

A NEW HARBOR FRONT LOCATION

Surpasing he Highet Exectations “The #1 rated hotel in Half Moon Bay” Trip Advisor “Voted Best of the Bay” San Francisco Chronicle’s website, SF Gate The only full service hotel in San Mateo County to be ECO-CERTIFIED by the county

Conference ~ Teambuilding ~ Special Events

• 95 Luxurious appointed suites with unparalleled views • 8,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, most with natural light & private balconies • 10 dinning destinations • Boutique shopping • Full service spa with 11 function rooms • Endless activities • Outdoor function area • 25 minutes from SFO

OCEanO HOTEl & Spa Half MOOn Bay HarBOr 280 Capistrano Road | Half Moon Bay, California 94019 tel: 650.726.5400 | fax: 650.726.5402 | Reservations 1.888.OCEANO.1 | oceanohalfmoonbay.com

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