Minnesota Meetings + Events Summer 2024 by Greenspring Media

THE ‘WOW EFFECT’ VISIT DULUTH LEADER ESPOUSES AND EMBODIES FLUID TEAMWORK

EMBRACE THE WILD

HOST IN LUSH, WOODSY VENUES FRAMED BY NATURE

ADD A LITTLE FUN ENGAGE ATTENDEES THROUGH THE ART OF GAMIFICATION

Reawakening

MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL SETS A NEW STANDARD

INNOVATIVE CUISINE INCREDIBLE VENUES

The most impactful moments are made when gathered around the table

THOUGHTFUL EVENTS DESIGNED FOR DYNAMIC BUSINESSES

Client Gatherings l In-Office Catering l Celebratory Dinners l Milestone Events

THOUGHTFUL EVENTS DESIGNED FOR DYNAMIC BUSINESSES

Client Gatherings l In-Office Catering l Celebratory Dinners l Milestone Events

Walker Art Center

EPIC MEETINGS

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Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site. Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing guestrooms and

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

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EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

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EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

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Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

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EPIC MEETINGS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Make your next Minneapolis

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

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Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

MEETINGS AND EVENTS next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

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Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

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square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

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EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

EPIC MEETINGS

your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

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Make your next Minneapolis event

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

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EPIC MEETINGS

sales@renminneapolis.com MEETINGS AND EVENTS your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

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EPIC MEETINGS AND

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

AND Make your next Minneapolis

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Make your next Minneapolis event

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

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EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

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Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor guestrooms and 600 parking

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site. EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and on-site parking.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site. EPIC

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

BY NATALIE COMPAGNO AND GREG FREITAS

Navigate ever-rising event expenses with these tips to keep your budget on track

SHELBY DEERING

Take meetings from drab to fab with the help of these products,

Natural event settings invigorate teams, encourage creativity, and promote wellness

Engage attendees and keep the fun flowing by gamifying your event

Discover the latest industry updates through our Minnesota news

The Twin Cities Wedding & Event Professionals group celebrates in St. Paul with its Red Gala and Award Show

From skydiving formations to helming Visit Duluth, Daniele Villa reflects on his career journey

PHOTO BY LANE PELOVSKY

Madden’s on Gull Lake in Brainerd

Gathering in the courtyard at the Mill City Museum in Minneapolis

Stroll the Twin Cities—Indoors

» MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL IS SEEING a renaissance in meetings and events traffic. Cell phone location data gathered between March of last year and this year shows travelers, including planners, are choosing Minneapolis and St. Paul at increasing rates, according to local TV station KARE 11. The data shows a 45% increase in visits to Minneapolis during this time, the highest in North America. St. Paul is also seeing an uptick in meetings—Visit Saint Paul’s sales team booked 8% more room nights for groups last year than they did in 2022.

One of the main attributes making both downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul attractive to planners is the two cities’ skyway systems that link hotels, convention centers, restaurants, and venues. The Minneapolis Skyway System, at over 10 miles in cumulative length, makes it possible to walk from the Minneapolis Convention Center or U.S. Bank Stadium to the river without setting foot outside—it is the longest continuous skyway system in the world. Similarly, St. Paul’s 5-mile skyway system links the Saint Paul RiverCentre and Xcel Energy Center to many of the buildings downtown.

As many are aware, Minneapolis-St. Paul is notable for rather chilly winter weather. However, the skyway systems were not constructed to protect people from the winters—when Minneapolis built its first skyway in 1962, it was viewed as a way to get pedestrians off increasingly busy city streets. Building owners also sought to increase property values and rental revenue with second-story, high-traffic pathways. Both skyway systems feature skyway-only businesses, including many restaurants and retail shops. While walking between a convention center and a hotel, planners can grab a latte or pick up something at Target.

Both cities publish maps of their skyways online, and physically posted maps can be found throughout the systems. If you get lost, Meet Minneapolis recommends you ask a confident-looking skyway strider for directions. Minneapolis hotels connected to the skyway include W Minneapolis–The Foshay; Hilton Minneapolis; and Hotel Ivy, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Minneapolis. St. Paul’s system links to the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Paul Downtown; the InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront, An IHG Hotel; and The Saint Paul Hotel, among others.

If you gather in either of the downtowns, take some time in between meetings to wander the skyways and experience Minneapolis or St. Paul in a most extraordinary way.

TODD R. BERGER Senior Editor tberger@greenspring.com

meetingsmags.com/minnesota

PRESIDENT TAMMY GALVIN

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER – NATIONAL SALES JENNIFER MAX 612-371-5892 | JMAX@GREENSPRING.COM

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SYDNEY KELL, ELLIANNA RADOVICH

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SUPERIOR SIPS

Curating the perfect beverage menu for events takes craft, creativity, and consideration BY

AMANDA CHRISTENSEN

When it comes to event planning, food and drink can be as important as keynoters and venue selection. For drinks, specifically, it’s necessary to consider several factors when putting together the menu—with gatherings ranging from corporate galas to colleague cocktail hours, the options should be diverse and well-catered to the attendees. Components like the staff behind the bar, glassware, and the inclusion of nonalcoholic and allergy-friendly options can all make or break a sipping experience.

1. Having an expert on hand throughout the planning process and during the event itself is a must—hiring a mixologist for your gathering is a great way to ensure everything is crafted well. While the title might be more honorary than formal, a mixologist differs from a traditional bartender in that they tend to have a more specialized knowledge of cocktails and thus are able to craft one-of-akind experiences. Attendees can provide a mixologist with their preferred base liquors, flavors, and garnishes, which the mixologist will then use to concoct something special.

2. Make an impression with the use of specific glassware for each drink. Not only can specially shaped glassware make cocktails look extra sophisticated, but these different types of glassware also can serve to enhance flavors—the tulip glass, for example, can aid in drawing up the flavor and aroma of hops in certain beers like India pale ales and Belgian saisons. Champagne is best in flutes, mojitos in highball glasses, whiskey in an Old Fashioned glass, and so on. The appearance of these drinks in their specialized glasses can immediately catch the eye and spark excitement.

3. And lastly, it is important to acknowledge that not all attendees will want alcohol, so plan ahead and have nonalcoholic (NA) options at the ready. Mocktails and NA beers, seltzers, and wines are all top choices. If possible, also consider any allergies to liquors, flavors, syrups, and garnishes. Add notes to the menu, as well, that specify which options will be gluten-free or contain yeast, for example. You might not be able to address all concerns, but taking the extra step to cover as many bases as you can might give attendees more peace of mind.

Meet by the Greatest Lake

Duluth, on the shores of Lake Superior and Minnesota’s fifth-largest city, has a plethora of hotels available for those planning meetings and events near the majestic waters of a Great Lake. The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) is within proximity of many of these properties, making them convenient lakeside home bases and spots to convene.

The Inn on Lake Superior, a boutique Canal Park hotel, is an easy eight-minute walk to the DECC via the Minnesota Slip Bridge, a pedestrian lift bridge connecting

Canal Park with the convention center and nearby attractions. The inn contains the Northern Lights Conference Center, with several meeting spaces ranging from intimate to grand. Its Northern Lights Ballroom can be configured in multiple ways and holds up to 300 attendees theater-style, while its third-floor space, the Eagle Harbor Room, provides a smaller option and accommodates 70. innonlakesuperior.com

“Our best space is the balcony off of our meeting room that faces the marina,” says John Klemme, general manager at Park

Point Marina Inn on Park Point. “It’s a great outdoor space for people to get outside and be next to the water rather than just cooped up in a meeting room.” The inn is situated near the lift bridge end of Park Point, with easy access to both the DECC and the point’s beautiful beach and recreation areas. Park Point Marina Inn’s Breakwater Pier Walk allows attendees to get an up-close look at ships in the harbor as they pass by. parkpointmarinainn.com

Next to Bayfront Festival Park is Pier B Resort Hotel, located near the DECC and the Great Lakes Aquarium (the aquarium contains wildlife endemic to the Great Lakes region and is also available for buyouts). Pier B has both a boardroom and a ballroom—its Pilot House Boardroom features rustic decor, views of the harbor and the Aerial Lift Bridge, and a TV monitor with AV capabilities. pierbresort.com

A few blocks to the west of the convention center lies the Radisson Hotel Duluth–Harborview, Minnesota’s longestoperating Radisson hotel. Its signature cylindrical shape and top-floor revolving restaurant make it an iconic stay in the Twin Ports. “Harbor 360 is the last remaining rotating restaurant in the Midwest,” says Tessa Sandberg, director of sales at the hotel. Never fear, it revolves slowly, so attendees will hardly notice anything but the incredible view. The hotel also offers nearly 9,000 square feet of event space, and many of its guest rooms are appointed with high-rise views of the harbor. choicehotels.com

If the downtown vibe hits home with your group, Sheraton Duluth Hotel is less than a mile from the convention center with Duluth-inspired dining at its Restaurant 301 and three meeting spaces. Restaurant 301 offers breakfast, dinner, and catering services with elevated fare such as seared duck with wild rice risotto and rainbow trout with roasted butternut squash. The hotel’s largest meeting space, its Split Rock Meeting Room, can host up to 120. marriott.com –Linden M. Bayliss

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sundew docked at Pier B Resort Hotel

Great Lake. Grand Spaces.

Looking for someplace unique, beautiful, and unforgettable? Let Duluth be the breath of fresh air your convention or meeting needs. When you come to Duluth, you become a part of what makes this place so special. And even when you leave Duluth, it never leaves you. You’ll get it when you get here.

MINNEAPOLIS’

» W HEN MEETING IN MINNEAPOLIS , you will find many iconic locales for snapping Instagram-destined group shots in-between meetings.

The nightclub First Avenue rose to national prominence after the release of Prince’s seminal movie, “Purple Rain,” four decades ago. One of the longest-running independently owned and operated clubs in the U.S., First Avenue is well known for its “star wall,” which features many artists who have performed at the venue over the years—including Prince himself. first-avenue.com

Minneapolis celebrates Minnesotan Bob Dylan with a kaleidoscopic mural in the Hennepin Theater District downtown. The five-story masterpiece—created by Eduardo Kobra—includes lyrics from “The Times They Are a-Changin’.” Dylan and his brother, David Zimmerman, once owned the nearby Orpheum Theatre. hennepintheatertrust.org

Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen’s larger-than-life Spoonbridge and Cherry towers above the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden at the Walker Art Center. Completed in 1988, the creation was the first work commissioned for the sculpture garden. The spoon’s raised bowl is said to have reminded Oldenburg of the prow of a Viking ship and a duck bobbing in a lake. walkerart.org –Todd R. Berger

SCULPT YOUR CABOOSE

Union Depot in St. Paul and Minneapolis-based Studio 9-to-5 stage free in-person yoga at the Lowertown train station Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, with a virtual option on Tuesdays. The classes are year-round either in the Waiting Room or the North Plaza, depending on the weather. The Wednesday and Saturday classes are best for a variety of skill levels, while the Monday session is designed for regular yoga practitioners who wish to tone and sculpt. Small groups and individual attendees are welcome, and Studio 9-to-5 also offers customized classes for groups.

–Todd R. Berger

studio9to5wellness.com uniondepot.org

Incomparable Helicopter Tours

» GROUPS EXPERIENCE AWE-INSPIRING VIEWS with Twin Cities-based Minnesota Helicopters Inc. and its numerous tours. The company has two locations—one in Blaine and one in St. Paul—and offers a variety of flight options including its Twin Cities Helicopter Tour, which flies down from Blaine along the north side of downtown Minneapolis, providing a memorable, close-up look at the city’s expansive skyline. The company also offers tours that hover over Lake Minnetonka as well as the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers.

Flights can be tailored to fit your group’s desired views, and customization also is available. General Manager Chris Webb says groups can add on intriguing pit stops like the Minnesota State Capitol. “What else could you compare it to?” asks Webb. “You literally can see everything.” –Linden M. Bayliss

minnesotahelicopters.com

Artist Eduardo Kobra in front of the Bob Dylan mural in downtown Minneapolis

A Fresh-Air Perspective

Natural meeting venues embrace beauty and adaptability in the Land of 10,000 Lakes

BY CLAIRE SHEFCHIK

» IN A STATE BLESSED with stunning natural features—from lush orchards to historical riverfronts to glistening lakes—you might start to wonder, why don’t more corporate and nonprofit event planners take advantage of them? Well, many do. Planners are increasingly seeking venues that blend business with nature.

“In Minnesota, we have winter over half of the year,” says Lucie Jane Ashe, senior event manager at Do Good Events in St. Louis Park, whose recent work includes events at the Nicollet Island Pavilion and Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens, both in Minneapolis. “When we can be outside, we really want to be outside.”

For your next corporate meetup, you might incorporate sales presentations on the riverfront or brainstorming sessions in a 100-year-old barn. And when the workday is over, go beyond cocktail hour and incorporate yoga, ax throwing, boat

rides, or scavenger hunts. These open-air and natural venues offer undeniable advantages. Earthy environments are often relaxed, keeping conversations open and creative exchanges flowing.

The flexible options available at natural venues, ranging from indoor spaces with lush views to fully outdoor setups, can accommodate almost any contingency, weather-related or otherwise.

It’s no secret that Minnesota has plenty of beautiful spots—but to meeting planners, it’s not just about the aesthetics. It’s about crafting experiences that invigorate teams, encourage creativity, and promote wellness at work and in life. It can be a challenge, of course. Some employees won’t be used to talking about sales and marketing in the great outdoors, and the practical aspects of events like technology, sustainability, and logistical planning can be tricky to navigate without

the comforts of a traditional venue. But venues and planners around Minnesota have found some nifty ways to make the experience as smooth as possible.

At Madden’s on Gull Lake, a familyowned resort in Brainerd known for its “up north” feel, Digital Marketing Manager Casey King emphasizes how its setting changes the usual pace of corporate meetings. “Being situated on a peninsula and having views of Gull Lake all around provides a welcome break from the city/suburban hustle and bustle most corporate groups are used to,” King says. This full-scale immersion in nature often prompts folks to step back from daily tasks and gain fresh perspectives on work and life—giving rise to strategic thinking and team cohesion.

Closer to the Twin Cities, Minneapolis’ Nicollet Island Pavilion is a prime example of a venue that merges urban spaces

A toast on the Wilson Bay Deck at Madden’s on Gull Lake in Brainerd

with nature, which Ashe points out is something Twin Cities venues do particularly well. “The pavilion is really unique,” says Ashe. “It’s a beautiful outdoor park right in the middle of the city.” Its garden terrace and patio offer spectacular views of downtown Minneapolis and the Stone Arch Bridge. The historic charm of the pavilion combines with modern sound, light, projection, and wireless technologies to provide meeting planners with the best of both worlds.

BRAVING THE ELEMENTS

The logistical challenges of meeting outdoors do exist and have to be met. After all, it is not always easy to find a spot to charge your iPhone in the serene northern woods. At venues like Madden’s on Gull Lake, the blend of nature with necessary technology is seamless. “We have a fairly extensive inventory of in-house

audiovisual equipment and a knowledgeable team on hand to assist,” King says, adding that Madden’s is all about keeping the natural vibe of the venue without sacrificing those digital necessities.

Beyond the technological concerns, there’s also the unpredictable element of weather—it is Minnesota, after all. “You always need a backup when you have an outdoor event, and that can impact your budget,” says Ashe. “It’s almost like you need to plan for two events.” If there is no indoor space at your venue, there is always the option of tenting, Ashe notes. These weatherproof options are especially necessary when technology comes outside. “Another thing people don’t think about is screen glare, so work with your audiovisual team to make sure what you’re bringing outside is meant to be outside,” she adds. “Always have those A and B plans— plan for rain, wind, and cold.”

Madden’s on Gull Lake offers a proactive and flexible approach with multiple backup plans that maintain the charm and functionality of events, rain or shine. King says with locations like Wilson Bay, an area at the resort that offers both expansive views and indoor comforts, Madden’s shows a commitment to delivering top-notch experiences regardless of any unpredictable elements guests might have to face. Similarly, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska has indoor/outdoor spaces.

Spano also highlights how The Confluence Hotel balances high-tech needs with its natural setting. “We have stateof-the-art sound systems and audiovisual capabilities like any hotel facility used for meetings and events,” she says. While attendees at the hotel are reveling in the calm of nature, they remain connected to the digital tools they need.

Gathering at Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery & Distillery in Kasota; Left, from above: Backyard, an outdoor dining and event space at The Confluence Hotel in Hastings; Spectacular gardens at Chaska’s Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

TURNING TOWARD NATURE

Sustainability is always a crucial consideration in meeting planning, but at these natural venues, it is particularly prominent, with each venue taking strides to minimize its environmental impact. Madden’s on Gull Lake, for instance, has integrated sustainability into its core values. “The resort has a Green Initiative Program that includes different approaches for each department,” King notes, pointing out its commitment to eco-friendly practices, from recycling and composting to the use of hybrid vehicles.

Strauser says that Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery & Distillery’s vineyard manager channels their passion for sustainability into using natural cleaning products to keep the grounds and event areas pristine while reducing harm done to the environment due to the use of harsh chemicals.

“We are seeing a bigger focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness, and how we connect to the Earth,” says Ashe. “[People are being] a little bit more conscious of sustainability. I think people are more connected to the world as a whole nowadays.” She thinks that in the future, due to the rise of remote work and the focus on sustainability, connecting with nature will become more than just a “nice-tohave” for meetings—it will be a must-have. “One trend I’m seeing more of is people are looking for spaces that aren’t entirely indoors, even if it’s just a room with big windows,” Ashe adds.

Of course, these days, the lines between work and leisure tend to be blurrier, and that suits these venues fine. Spano notes that The Confluence’s setting invites people to stay longer and linger, and they often do, combining meetings with leisure vacations. She says this trend of combining work with play has grown in popularity since 2020.

These natural settings are more than just meeting places—they are retreats offering authentic experiences in nature, inviting attendees to stay, explore, and enjoy long after they check off that final agenda item.

arb.umn.edu | chankaskawines.com

The Pavilion event venue at Madden’s on Gull Lake; Above: Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens along the Mississippi River in Minneapolis

Giants

MEETINGS

GIANT MEETINGS & EVENTS

• Memorable Setting: It provides a break from the typical

• Recreational Activities: Meetings combine with outdoor activities like golf on championship courses and mountain biking on extensive trails.

• Team Building: Giants Ridge facilitates team-building exercises that encourage camaraderie among colleagues through engaging activities.

• Accommodations: The Lodge at Giants Ridge offers on-site stays, simplifying logistics for attendees.

• Catering: Catering services are available to handle meals for meetings or conferences.

GIANT MEETINGS & EVENTS

Fun & Games

The gamification movement is riding high these days, especially for corporate meetings and events

BY JULIE KENDRICK

» NOT TOO LONG AGO, conducting successful business gatherings required equipment as old school as flip charts, projectors, and lots of 3-by-5-inch index cards. These days, it requires the modern alchemy of robust technology, highly accurate GPS tracking, and savvy social media. What’s more, a concept known as “gamification” is moving center stage and becoming a major element of meeting planning, presenting its own set of challenges and rewards for gatherings.

Gamification is the art of encouraging attendee participation through the addition of game-like, fun elements to meetings and events. Opening icebreakers and short quizzes are popular examples. “Events

are no longer just about the content or just about the people,” says event strategist Gianna Gaudini. “I believe it’s a combination that makes them successful.” Gaudini is also author of “The Art of Event Planning.” Her thought is echoed by Channing Moreland, entertainment strategist and co-founder of Eva, a platform that connects events with vetted entertainment.

As someone who has experienced events-based gamification and incorporated various gamified elements into her own company’s gatherings, Moreland says the tide is rolling swiftly with greater game-related opportunities. “Now, more than ever, clients are asking for increasingly interactive and engaging

experiences for their event attendees, and gamification is a great tool to do that,” she says.

ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATION

While some planners and clients might shy away from the idea of replacing “businessfirst” meetings with events that include an element of fun, many contend that even seemingly lighthearted activities can yield measurable business results. There’s something serious going on behind all the smiles and laughter, Gaudini says. As the former head of events for Google, AWS, Airtable, and SoftBank Vision Fund, the event strategist has planned many events where experiences were gamified

“Gamification works wonders because it creates engagement and a reason for people to pay attention and participate.”

–GIANNA GAUDINI , event strategist and author of “The

Art of Event Planning”

to drive business results. “Gamification works wonders because it creates engagement and a reason for people to pay attention and participate,” she says.

If you want success in putting together a gathering of humans, you need to think about how humans work, and that is where gaming can make a big difference—for a couple reasons, Gaudini says. “First, people can only retain a certain amount of information without taking a break. That’s why back-to-back keynotes for three hours no longer work as effectively as planning shorter sessions broken up with active breaks for networking, games, or relaxation.

“Second, it has been proven that brains retain information best when it’s wrapped in a warm blanket of emotion or a story. Engaging activities mean emotions are heightened, so people will be more likely to retain the information, as well as more likely to participate and be engaged with those around them.”

Moreland agrees with this notion, adding that elements such as scavenger hunts and puzzles can foster connections, break the ice, and inject a sense of fun into the event environment, ultimately leading to more meaningful interactions and positive, fruitful outcomes.

Be sure to include a variety of activities that will appeal to different personality types, says Heather Seasholtz, vice president of operations at CM Event Solutions, who has both planned and participated in gamified events. “I prefer offering both app-based games and inperson games because I feel offering both maximizes inclusivity,” she says. “Appbased games allow people to participate who may tend to be more introverted, while

in-person games allow [face-to-face] interaction between attendees, a perk for conferences to create new connections.”

Also, allow for some drop-off in your planning, Seaholtz adds. “It’s important to set your expectations, because you’ll never get 100% of the people in any group participating in gamification.”

Hwansuk Chris Choi, a professor at the University of Guelph’s School of Hospitality, Food, and Tourism Management in Guelph, Ontario, has studied gamification within the events and travel industry and has identified several key personality types who are likely to be attracted to different aspects of gaming activities. These types are knowledge collectors, reward-seekers, explorers, curiosity-seekers, sensationseekers, and flow experiencers.

“If you’re planning a meeting with mostly Generation Xers and millennials in attendance, it’s good to know that most of them are knowledge collectors,” he says, making trivia and similar activities good choices for these groups. “In contrast, Generation Zers have relatively diverse interests.”

WHAT’S NEXT?

Moreland says, “Looking ahead, I anticipate that gamification capabilities will continue to evolve, driven by advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on attendee engagement. We can expect to see more sophisticated applications for how attendees can meet and interact.”

Gaudini adds, “I do think planners are realizing that in this content-saturated environment, events have a leg up over other marketing mediums by being able to engage all the senses experientially in a way other forms of marketing cannot do.”

bookwitheva.com | cm-eventsolutions.com | sciencedirect.com

Gamification Ideas

From simple to intricate, the types of activities planners can incorporate into the agenda are nearly endless and almost universally applicable to any group or participant. You likely have already integrated some of these activities into your events, but they all fall under the general heading of “gamification.”

Bingo

Icebreakers

Interactive badges

Leaderboards

Live polls and quizzes

Networking challenges

Puzzle-solving

QR code photo contests

Scavenger hunts

Social media walls

Trivia

Games and activities like these will help spark initial interactions among attendees to get conversations started and encourage quieter participants to engage a bit more— which can make all the difference in creating an event that’s truly inclusive, memorable, and immersive.

BOOM THE

Minneapolis and St. Paul welcome gatherings with open arms, playing host to even more events BY

SHELBY DEERING

Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis—to the left and in front of the IDS Center—joined the city’s skyline in 2022.

BOOM IS ON C

ities across the globe are often known for having renaissance periods, when tourism flourishes and visitors come in droves. During such times, cities shine their brightest, filled with fresh new properties and destinations aplenty.

The Twin Cities region is experiencing its own reawakening at the moment, and the stats don't lie— Minneapolis-based TV station KARE 11 reported in April that cell phone location data shows the postpandemic rebound of Minneapolis was the best in North America. In fact, visits grew by 45% between March 2023 and March 2024.

So, why the sudden revitalization in the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul? Well, part of it can be attributed to the “Taylor Swift effect” (the pop star played her sold-out Eras Tour shows in June of last year in the Twin Cities, a time when visitation spiked), but other impacts include an increase in hotel room supply and ease created by new transportation options.

“To put it simply, the desire to meet face-to-face is as high as it has ever been, and we’re certainly seeing that in Minneapolis,” says Melvin Tennant, president and CEO of Meet Minneapolis. He adds that the Minneapolis Convention Center welcomed 713,000 attendees through its doors last year, an increase of more than 48% compared to 2022.

“With that increase comes a need for hotel rooms,” he explains. “In 2023, demand for hotel rooms in Minneapolis increased more than 15% year over year, while hotel occupancy improved more than 9% despite a nearly 6% increase in room supply. Those increases were driven by leisure tourism, conventions, and events throughout the city.”

“This is exciting growth over the past two years, when attendance was down,” says Kalsey Beach, president of Do Good Events in St. Louis Park.

St. Paul is also seeing new properties added to its events-hosting roster. As Jaimee Lucke Hendrikson, president and CEO of Visit Saint Paul, says, “Many of the new hotels and event spaces have been in the works for quite a while, and it’s exciting to see them opening.”

Tennant says that more than 8,000 hotel rooms in downtown Minneapolis are within walking distance of the convention center. He adds, “A large number of those nearby rooms also are connected by our extensive skyway system, providing visitors a convenient indoor option to travel throughout downtown. The system has expanded to the point where, today, you

PHOTO Don Riddle

Clockwise from above: Meet Minneapolis gathers for its 2024 Annual Meeting at the Minneapolis Convention Center; Jaimee Lucke Hendrikson of Visit Saint Paul speaks at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts in St. Paul; Metro Green Line light rail will soon be extended; The Star Bar and Star Bistro at Hotel Indigo Minneapolis Downtown opened its doors last year.

can walk continuously from the Minneapolis Convention Center to the Mississippi riverfront without stepping foot outside.” Some of these hotels within strides of the convention center include Hilton Minneapolis, which is the state’s largest hotel; Hyatt Regency Minneapolis; and Millennium Minneapolis.

In addition, the Minneapolis Convention Center itself is about to see some major positive changes through 2026. The remodeling will focus on renovating all meeting rooms as well as updating lighting in other areas of the convention center. Last year, the center generated $18.5 million in revenue, an increase of more than 14% compared to 2022.

When it comes to getting around the cities, transportation is becoming easier and more expansive, something that is a big draw for event planners. The Metro Green Line expansion from Target Field Station to SouthWest Station Eden Prairie is a prime example.

“Any avenue that results in increased accessibility to downtown Minneapolis will be a net positive for meetings and events in our city,” Tennant says. “The Metro Green Line Extension will primarily serve

individuals coming downtown for events like public shows at the Minneapolis Convention Center, sporting events, and music and theater performances.”

Although the project has faced several delays, it is currently expected to begin passenger service in 2027. In addition, Metro Transit light-rail trains link Bloomington’s Mall of America, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, downtown Minneapolis, downtown St. Paul, the University Avenue Corridor, and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus, making it easy and convenient for attendees to get around the Twin Cities region.

Then there’s Metro Transit’s free bus service on Nicollet Mall and rides that are just 50 cents in the Downtown Zone. “Cars aren’t allowed on Nicollet in downtown Minneapolis [only buses and bikes], so it’s the most pedestrian-friendly street in the central business district,” Tennant says. “But attendees can get across downtown quickly by hopping on a bus marked ‘Free Ride’ seven days a week. Free Ride buses give visitors an easy way to get from the convention center, through downtown, to Washington Avenue, just a couple blocks from the Mississippi riverfront.”

As Beach says, “The Twin Cities is so accessible and easy to travel in, with great options in the urban cores and opportunities to experience an off-the-grid feeling within close proximity of the airport.”

FRESH PROPERTIES

Within the past couple years, to facilitate the boom the Twin Cities region is experiencing, many new hotel properties have sprung up to accommodate. Case in point? Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, located near Target Field and within six minutes driving distance of the Minneapolis Convention Center. Completed in 2022, the hotel offers 20,000 square feet of indoor event space, all conveniently located on the second floor of the hotel. It includes a grand ballroom that

can cater up to 700 guests theater-style, a junior ballroom that accommodates 300, and four breakout spaces. Another draw is its outdoor Riva Plaza event space with views of the Mississippi River, encompassing 4,119 square feet.

Noelia Roblero, director of events at the Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, says, “Although our venue sets a new standard for luxury and excellence in events in the Twin Cities, our focus extends significantly beyond this. We strive to establish a new benchmark for hosting elevated events in a welcoming, creative, and approachable atmosphere where the event and the meeting planning experience surpass the expectation.”

Then there’s Bloomington’s Hyatt House Mall of America/MSP Airport, situated within eyeshot of the largest mall in the U.S. The hotel opened in July last year and has a 1,000-square-foot Gathering Room, along with two outdoor spaces overlooking the neighboring Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Additionally, there’s the outdoor patio found right outside the bar.

“We are conveniently located in the heart of Bloomington but tucked away so it does not feel like you are in the city,” says Sokhom Sok, regional director of sales. “People should plan events at our space because we offer a small, simple place for off-site meetings.” Plus, you can’t beat those planned shopping excursions to break up the meeting schedule.

Michaella Holden, chief experience officer of Lucent Blue Events + Design in Minneapolis, notes, “The Twin Cities offers so much when it comes to venues and event vendors. The whole event industry is really strong in the area, so you can always find what you’re looking for, even if it’s a bit outside of the box.”

Hotel Indigo Minneapolis Downtown, An IHG Hotel, which opened its doors in December 2022, also

merits consideration. For events, it offers two restaurants, the Star Bar and Star Bistro, with a semiprivate lounge and a private dining room, respectively. It’s located near the Gateway District and is just four minutes from the Minneapolis Convention Center. Greg Bashaw, director of sales and marketing, says Hotel Indigo was renovated and redesigned to pay homage to the original North Star Inn, which was built in 1962— and there is much more than that. “The entire Northstar Center complex is undergoing a major renovation that will redefine our neighborhood in the central business district of downtown Minneapolis,” he says. “The complete renovation and rebranding of our hotel was the first phase of this renovation. Soon to come will be a new, state-of-the-art event center called Northstar 8 Minneapolis, which is accepting bookings for Oct. 1, 2024, and beyond.” The Northstar 8 venue will feature over 46,000 square feet of event space.

Hotel Indigo and Northstar 8 are connected on the first, seventh, and eighth floors, “making for easy access and a seamless hotel accommodations and meetings and events experience,” Bashaw says.

Other area hotels that have opened recently include the Cambria Hotel Minneapolis Downtown, Courtyard St. Paul Downtown, and Element Minneapolis Downtown.

Many planners are excited for some recent renovations of top-notch spaces in the Twin Cities along with new spots to hold events, such as the Hollywood Theater, The 1893 at the Historic Grain Belt, and The Fillmore, all of which feel on-trend, current, and have ambience to spare.

Throughout the Twin Cities region, it is evident the area is following an upward trajectory for meetings and events. The future of the Twin Cities as a host is bright, indeed.

THE TWIN CITIES IS SO ACCESSIBLE AND EASY TO TRAVEL IN, WITH GREAT OPTIONS IN THE URBAN CORES AND OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPERIENCE AN OFF-THEGRID FEELING WITHIN CLOSE PROXIMITY OF THE AIRPORT.” –KALSEY BEACH , president, Do Good Events

bloomingtonmn.org minneapolis.org visitsaintpaul.com

SAVVY SAVINGS

A few simple ways to keep the budget within reach—and events as excellent as ever

BY NATALIE COMPAGNO AND GREG FREITAS

ithin the ever-evolving landscape of event planning, combating sky-rocketing meeting costs has become a paramount concern for meeting planners. As the demand for memorable experiences grows and economic factors fluctuate, planners must adapt and innovate to align budgets with expectations.

As the meetings industry continues to rebound, one key element is unlikely to reset: rising costs. Multiple studies— from Maritz Global Events, American Express, and Knowland—suggest that, although some forecast a return to lower travel prices by the end of this year, the unique blend of line items needed to produce meetings and events is unlikely to return to previous price points.

The most recent industry survey from Maritz notes that the reported increase of hospitality wages is 20%, and food and beverage costs are up 25%, even as inflation across the economy has fallen to less than 4%, just over one-third of its 2022 peak. All the while, hotel, airfare, and catering costs continue to rise. Knowland reports that the largest area of dissatisfaction, reported by 47% of planners, concerns rising costs. And American Express notes that 65% of industry professionals report higher costs due to food and beverage, labor, and transportation increases.

SELECTING CITY & VENUE

Choosing the right destination and venue might significantly impact the overall budget. While airport hotels might seem like a cost-effective option, it’s essential to weigh the associated expenses, such as transportation for attendees if meals and activities take place outside the hotel. Localized meetings within a smaller radius can sometimes yield better cost savings.

Lindsay Krause, chief operating officer at Special D Events in Detroit, Michigan, points out that venues have a multitude of lesser-known cost-saving options. “Negotiate the ability to work with your own vendors at a venue,” she says. “Current vendor relationships may result in lower costs due to deeper discounts. And be flexible with your event dates. Have a conversation with the venue about options. Sometimes just changing the pattern of the event by one day can give you savings on rentals and minimums.”

Lynsey Norton, director of convention sales and regional services for Travel Tacoma and Greater Tacoma Convention Center in Washington, concurs on scheduling. “Booking off-peak dates at a convention center is the savvy event planner’s secret weapon, unlocking cost savings, flexibility, and enhanced attendee experiences,” she notes. Krause also recommends hunting for turnkey venues

rather than outwardly impressive locations with fewer existing amenities. “Use venues where everything is built-in versus a blank space that needs everything brought in,” she says.

LEAN ON THE LOCALS

The No. 1 tip shared by almost every planner spoken to for this article was the importance of collaboration with local experts, most notably convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) and destination marketing organizations (DMOs).

Norton notes the invaluable role that local institutions play in the planning stages. “Working with a destination marketing organization can transform event planning from a daunting task into a streamlined and cost-effective experience, saving both time and money while ensuring success,” she says. DMOs and CVBs offer services ranging from itinerary development and site sourcing to marketing and promotional assistance.

Meg Goldberg, senior creative marketing manager for RMC (a destination management and special event company) in Denver, Colorado, concurs. “The Denver CVB, otherwise known as Visit Denver, is an incredible resource for RMC. With respect to providing free and local activities for our groups, we use them often when encouraging businesses to book in The Mile High City. Our local CVB even designs custom microsites for events at no charge.”

Save money by booking one-stop shops, venues with on-site amenities such as catering.

Speakers can be selected from the community as well, and some planners mention that many of their best speakers are local volunteers. Many of the bigger conventions and marquee events even rely on volunteers for staffing, with attendance and swag as payment in kind.

SHARING IS CARING

Cost-cutting collaboration also extends to other groups using the same venue. Many planners mention that top organizers and venues will reach out to the temporary co-tenants about splitting costs for equipment, labor, and kitchens.

“Meet with the chef. They will work with you on budget.”

–LINDSAY KRAUSE, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, SPECIAL D EVENTS

Kris La Fata, director of destination and convention services at Visit Seattle in Washington, notes that costs easily can be shared with successful planning. “For example, split the cost of rigging,” she offers. “Rather than pay to tear down rigging, one sets up and the other tears down.” Organizing this is seamless if strong leadership is in place.

Norton says when it comes to saving on food, teaming up is key. “Ganging menus” is the practice of sharing the same menu choices for catered functions happening at the same venue at the same time. Planners can work with the onsite caterer to coordinate between the sharing events.

“Ganging menus at one venue isn’t just about saving money,” says Norton. “It’s also a smart move toward sustainability. By consolidating culinary efforts, event planners can cut costs, reduce waste, and ensure a consistent dining experience for guests. It’s a win-win for both budgets and the planet.”

CREATIVE FOOD CHOICES

Food and beverage costs constitute a significant portion of event budgets. Opting for alternatives like food trucks can help cut costs while offering attendees a memorable culinary experience. Partnering with local vendors and venues also can lead to cost-saving opportunities.

Kevin Kane has been planning group fairway outings for 25 years with his company Golf Events, also in Seattle. He suggests that hiring food trucks for events goes beyond mere cost-cutting to creating mutually beneficial relationships with local entrepreneurs. “Small-business owners are always good partners; they hustle and appreciate the business,” he says. “The food is fresh and made-to-order. And food trucks are self-sufficient—rain or shine—and do not need a lot of extra support besides directions and timing. Pricing with a mobile business is also more efficient and more cost-effective than a normal catering kitchen.”

Providing three square meals per day has gone the way of the dinosaur in the events space, according to planners. Some begin the first day’s events after breakfast, while holding the final session before that day’s dinner, as an easy way to trim costs. Others empower their attendees to walk to a local restaurant for breakfast or lunch, often with a special event discount, to also support the local culinary businesses.

Building relationships is still the key to delivering more for less. As Krause notes succinctly, “Meet with the chef. They will work with you on budget.”

GETTING AROUND

Transportation and its associated skyrocketing costs are the bane of planners’ existences. It’s irreplaceable and yet only noticeable when it isn’t working. Fortunately, there are a few tricks for getting from point A to point B on a budget.

Food trucks save money, increase food variety, and engage local partners.

Megan Clark, owner of Clutch Events in Seattle, says multimodal transport is the way to go. “Parking rates for prime areas in the city can be exorbitant for a buyout, as well as shuttle services that require a three-hour minimum of service,” she says. “Offering a mix of Uber/Lyft vouchers and scooter and e-bike rental codes gives guests a mix of options to get to and from your event from anywhere, and can save you hundreds on unused parking spaces and shuttle services. You only pay for what you use, and it acts as a great metric for future events.”

La Fata and the Seattle Convention Center made a bold move for an off-site meeting at the nearby Seattle Center, buying out the city’s Seattle Center Monorail system to transport guests. Attendees also were alerted that ride-sharing would not be reimbursed, adding incentive to the initiative.

OPTIMIZING ACTIVITIES

When planning team-building and other activities, it’s crucial to strike a balance between engagement and costeffectiveness. Incorporating intriguing and budget-friendly activities like walking tours, brewery visits, or local excursions can enhance the attendee experience without straining the budget. Similarly, scheduling free time between sessions can reduce the need for extensive catering and entertainment, further lowering costs.

Hennings suggests that relying on locals to suggest wallet-friendly activities is a key strategy. As she points out, many venues come with activities baked in, referencing a recent visit to a location with an apiary that also offered a honeytasting experience to attendees. Simple, user-friendly offerings like e-bike tours; beer, wine, or whiskey tastings; or visits to local art galleries or shops, strengthen the bond between attendees and the local community while also offering enriched and interesting team experiences.

PLANNING AHEAD

Introducing cost-saving practices into event planning can have long-lasting impacts. Many cost-cutting strategies are both good for the wallet and for the long-term health of the planet. Reusable event badges, compostable food and tableware, and eco-friendly decor and signage not only minimize environmental impact but also contribute to a more budget-conscious approach to event planning. Relationships with the community and community health also can be impacted by implementing some of these strategies.

As Goldberg says, “Much of our position on lowering our venue costs has everything to do with our deep relationships in the community. Often when we are selling the same space multiple times a year, we not only have developed a reliable and trustworthy relationship with our venue partners, but we also have provided them with much revenue throughout the year. When we need to call in a favor for a special client, this is exactly the type of relationship that we rely on to provide a wow experience.”

amexglobalbusinesstravel.com clutchevents.com golf-events.com knowland.com maritzglobalevents.com

rmcdmc.com specialdevents.com tacomaconventioncenter.org traveltacoma.com visitseattle.org

Wallet-friendly activities such as e-bike tours can be built into the schedule or offered as a free-time alternative.

Women’s Sports Bar Opens in Minneapolis

The first sports bar in Minnesota to exclusively show women’s sports, A Bar of Their Own, opened in the Seward neighborhood of Minneapolis in early March; it is available for meeting planner bookings two days a week. The bar follows establishments like The Sport Bra in Portland, Oregon, and Rough & Tumble in Seattle, Washington— the former was the first of its kind in the nation, opened in April 2022.

A Bar of Their Own owner Jillian Hiscock says she was motivated to open the bar not only by these predecessors, but also by her annoyance at being unable to watch her favorite teams at other locales. “I was tired of constantly having to ask to have the game I wanted to watch put on the

TVs at sports bars,” she explains. “I felt as though my fandom wasn’t prioritized and knew there were other women’s sports fans who felt the same way.” As it turns out, she was right about the pent-up demand. During the bar’s first week, lines stretched out the door, and there were two-hour wait times—the team served up 350 pounds of chicken wings to 4,500 customers in the first six days.

Hiscock describes A Bar of Their Own as inclusive, family friendly, and having top-notch burgers. As a self-identified “beer nerd,” she is especially proud of the tap list—its inclusions focus on breweries, like St. Paul’s Urban Growler, that are led by cisgender women, as well as those of transgender and nonbinary owners.

So, which teams can patrons cheer on at the bar this year? Hiscock says the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx, the PWHL Minnesota hockey team, Minnesota Vixen football, and the Minnesota Strike ultimate frisbee team are ones she’s excited about, to name a few. “We have seen huge turnouts at the bar for virtually every one of those teams,” she says. “It just goes to show that if you put women’s sports on TV, people want to watch.”

Planners can book A Bar of Their Own for Monday and Tuesday evenings, when the bar is closed to the public. It can accommodate up to 80, and an event menu is available. –Linden M. Bayliss

abaroftheirown.com

Meeting planners can book A Bar of Their Own in Minneapolis on Mondays and Tuesdays.

UBER AND LYFT ARE STAYING PUT

Spring in Minnesota has been rife with concerns about an Uber and Lyft threat to pull out of Minneapolis—and later all of Minnesota—after the Minneapolis City Council in early April passed an ordinance raising driver pay to a level the companies said they would not accept. The ordinance was set to go in effect July 1 after an extension. Gov. Tim Walz pushed the state legislature to pass a statewide ordinance acceptable to the ride-sharing companies, and, after extensive negotiations, the legislature delivered a bill that the governor signed into law on May 28. The legislation, effective Jan. 1, 2025, raises the driver pay rates to $1.28 per mile and 31 cents per minute, which is slightly above the rates recommended to reach minimum wage with enhanced benefits noted in a study last year and is below the $1.40 per mile and 51 cents per minute in the Minneapolis ordinance, which the state legislation overrides. Uber, Lyft, and the Minnesota Uber/Lyft Drivers Association supported the deal, and Uber and Lyft both announced they will continue operating in the state.

–Todd R. Berger

lyft.com

mulda.com

uber.com

BLOOMINGTON CVB REBRANDS

The Bloomington Convention & Visitors Bureau has rebranded after a months-long strategicplanning process. The bureau for the fourth-largest city in the state—the city home to Mall of America—is now known as Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism and has a revamped logo to go along with its new name.

“We felt like the name better reflects our work, and it also can cross over when we’re working with specific market segments like planners, visitors, or sports,” says Bonnie Carlson, president and CEO of Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism. She says the name change will also help distinguish the organization from those of

other “Bloomingtons” across the country. “‘Visit’ is the big word in a lot of CVB names,” she adds. “We considered that, but we went this route instead— maybe standing out a little bit more.”

Carlson and her team worked with the Minneapolis firm Duffy on the rebranding. –Todd R. Berger

bloomingtonmn.org

JW MARRIOTT MINNEAPOLIS MOA HONORED

» THE JW MARRIOTT MINNEAPOLIS Mall of America received a gold badge from U.S. News & World Report after being recognized in its 2024 “Best Hotels in the USA” rankings revealed earlier this year. The hotel ranks No. 4 in the 25 “Best Hotels in Minnesota” list and takes the No. 1 spot in its 15 “Best Marriott International Hotels in Minnesota.”

“We feel very honored to consistently be named as one of the top-ranked hotels in Minnesota and the Midwest,” says Rhonda Whittaker, senior marketing manager. She cites the hotel’s convenient location, quality guest service, farmto-table restaurant, and all-around luxury as the features contributing to the recognition. –Linden M. Bayliss

marriott.com

Hilton Acquires Graduate Hotels

Hilton acquired the Graduate Hotels brand in a deal completed in midMarch valued at $210 million. The deal includes the 304-room Graduate Minneapolis on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus, which is near McNamara Alumni Center and Huntington Bank Stadium and is a short drive or light-rail ride from downtown Minneapolis. The Graduate Minneapolis has multiple meeting spaces including the Meridian Ballroom, which has capacity for 600 attendees. –Todd R. Berger

graduatehotels.com

LAUNCHPAD GOLF COMING TO PRIOR LAKE

» IN MARCH, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC), based in Prior Lake, announced it is partnering with LaunchPad Golf to open the Canadian company’s first location in the U.S.—an exciting new team-building option coming to the Twin Cities. “This year-round golf entertainment enterprise will provide an incredible experience for guests of all skill levels,” says SMSC Chair Cole Miller in a prepared statement.

A competitor to Topgolf outlets, LaunchPad Golf locations contain interactive driving ranges that serve as social and entertainment hot spots complete with opportunities for attendees to show off their skills and compete against coworkers—or their boss. The facility will be in Prior Lake next to Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, which the SMSC also owns and operates, and is anticipated to open mid-next year. –Linden M. Bayliss

launchpadgolf.com shakopeedakota.org

Rendering of LaunchPad Golf, coming to Prior Lake

The lobby of Graduate Minneapolis

A Scarlet Soiree

The Twin Cities Wedding & Event Professionals (TCWEP) held its 15th anniversary celebration, the Red Gala and Award Show, in the Red Cap Room at Union Depot in St. Paul in early April. Award-winners included Dana Allison of Keyed Up Events, Jessica Knighton of Jessica Knighton Photography, Tami Cabrera of Muddy Paws Cheesecake, Ryan Veil of Studio Veil, and Amy Lund of Big Guys BBQ Roadhouse. Categories ranged from “Mountain Mover,” for individuals who went above and beyond, to “Rising Star,” for up-and-comers who have grown through networking. Catering was provided by Chef Jeff Catering and Hightop Hospitality. Desserts came from Muddy Paws Cheesecake and Villa Valley Goods, and Crave Catering and Events ran the bar.

1. KJ Smith and Julia Gilsrud

2. DJ Greg Ellis 3. Photo booth by Rustic Elegance 4. Elizabeth Sherry, Matt Sherry, and Michelle Tverberg

5. Morida Sanchez-Soun, Dorys Kulczycki, Ari Reynolds, and Ashley Sherry 6. Chef Jeff Riley

7. Jessica Knighton, Reena Maheshwari, and Jeannine Pohl 8. Kellie Heinen and Hope Konkol 9. Alexis Bessermin, Dana Allison, and Alexandra Moss

Down to Earth in Duluth

Visit Duluth’s Daniele Villa talks skydiving, working in the United Arab Emirates, and the ‘wow effect’ of Duluth

BY TODD R. BERGER

rowing up in Milan, Italy, Daniele Villa, president of sales and operations at Visit Duluth, looked to the skies. At 17, he earned a pilot’s license, and, not long after, he took up professional skydiving.

“I liked being in the air,” Villa explains. “It was a passion of mine.” After many years of competing, Villa and his skydiving team became Italy’s national champions, representing their country in the World Championships of Formation Skydiving multiple times.

Villa notes one thing about skydiving he really liked was the teamwork involved. The four skydivers in his competition group were judged by the number of formations they put together in 35 seconds from the moment they left the airplane. “It’s how accurate and how fast you are as a team,” says Villa. “My biggest personal influence was being part of a team, working together as a team, and accomplishing successes together—not as an individual.”

When on the ground, Villa served as CEO of the Italian branch of GL Events, an event management company headquartered in Lyon, France, with which he helped

organize many trade shows, as well as plan and launch an exhibition center in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

At the end of 2020, Villa and his family moved to Minnesota. It wasn’t his first time living in the North Star State—he and his wife, Monica, a Minnesotan, met while Villa was working in Minneapolis two decades ago. He joined Visit Duluth at the beginning of 2022.

“We all know each other in Duluth,” Villa notes. “Everybody is very reachable, flexible, and we understand the importance of meetings, events, and conventions.”

He can also see why so many are enamored with his new hometown, and he reflects on this from his, perhaps characteristically, elevated viewpoint.

“One of the things I hear the most is that when people who drive into Duluth almost reach the city,” he says, “they are on top of the hill, then they begin to drive down, and there is always a ‘wow effect.’ Because people who are not familiar with Duluth see the lake and see the Aerial Lift Bridge. It’s like, ‘Wow, I didn’t expect that.’ That’s the wow effect of Duluth!”

The Bloomington Diamond Service Awards was rst held in 1996 to honor the powerhouse that is Bloomington’s hospitality industry. From Mall of America retail stores to over 45 hotels, there are thousands of opportunities to work in hospitality in Bloomington, and the Diamond Service Awards aim to recognize those who make the greatest positive impact on the destination’s visitors. This year’s gala was held on April 25, 2024, and honored recipients from 15 categories, along with the winner of the Spirit of Hospitality Award and inductees into the Hospitality Hall of Fame.

Spirit of H pitality

Minnesota Sports and Events (MNSE), the recipient of the 2023 Spirit of Hospitality Award, exempli es dedication to advancing Minnesota and Bloomington as top visitor destinations. MNSE has cra ed a strategic roadmap for success in hosting mega events like the NCAA Big Ten Men’s and Women’s Basketball tournaments and the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Team Trials, bringing thousands of visitors to Minnesota and fostering economic growth and community engagement along the way. Congratulations, MNSE!

St. Louis Park & Golden Valley o er big city amenities with small town hospitality and charm, close to the heart of Minneapolis.

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