Colorado Meeting + Events Spring 2020

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE ELLEN COLLINS

Plus six industry veterans and rising stars join the COM+E Hall of Fame (42)

BEST OF

FEATURING 22 categories including BEST CONVENTION CENTER, ENTERTAINMENT AGENCY, EVENT DÉCOR/FLORAL, CATERER, OUTDOOR OR ROOFTOP VENUE & MORE (Page 33)

One-of-a-kind lodging and meeting spaces. Distinctive dining. Legendary mountain activities. All flawlessly planned by our team of expert meeting planners.

Seamless access to everything for an unforgettable event at the world’s most Epic mountain destinations. FIND YOUR EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME AT VAIL RESORTS.

Spring 2020

FEATURES

33

Best of 2020

Celebrating Colorado’s stellar venues, suppliers, planners and more.

By

Beth

Buehler

42 Hall of Fame

Familiar faces and new players in the industry are among the 2020 Hall of Fame all-star list. By Beth Buehler

DEPARTMENTS

10 EDITOR’S LETTER

26 MEET & EAT

Lighten the mood, create a fun atmosphere or invite your team to an elevated happy hour at one of Colorado’s distilleries. By Kassidy Tarala

72 PEOPLE PROFILE

Keisha Makonese shares how her career in the events industry has taken flight. By Hannah Cullen

THE PERFECT PETAL, BEST EVENT DÉCOR/FLORAL PHOTO: WERK

GRAND ENOUGH FOR YOUR BEST PEOPLE AND THEIR BIGGEST IDEAS.

Meetings and events take on a special energy at The Broadmoor. Our magnificent Colorado setting will inspire your people. Our world-class golf, spa, dining and more will refresh them. The unique venues and activities of our Broadmoor Wilderness Experience properties will challenge them and change their perspectives. With the addition of the new Exhibit Hall, our over 315,000 square feet of meeting space is flexible enough to meet your most demanding requirements. And amidst it all, The Broadmoor’s legendary tradition of quality and service will ensure your event is a success. Contact us today and start planning your meeting now at broadmoor.com.

Photo by Tate Carlson

The Paloma, Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant

Sonnenalp Hotel, Vail

EVENT SPACE SHAPES f all AND SIZES

E DITOR Beth Buehler

MANAGING EDITOR Mike Munzenrider

SEN IOR EDITOR Megan Gosch

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lauren Pahmeier

C ONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jeremy Eskenazi, Dennis LaMantia, Jaclyn Patrick, Kassidy Tarala

EDITORIAL INTERN Hannah Cullen

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Justin Clark, Visit Aurora • Candace Duran, Halcyon • Adam Douglas, Peak Beverage • Kevin Hedican, Hermes Worldwide, Inc. • Brady Johnson, C Lazy U Ranch • Jason Lusk, CMP, VISIT DENVER • Amanda Nelson, AKN Events Elri Nieuwenhuizen, Occasions Catering • Victoria Rosenblatt, Andavo Meetings & Incentives Sharon Schoeffield, Copper Mountain Resort • Todd Seymour, Wellshire Inn • Sidney Stoper, J&S Audio Visual Nicole Steed, Lamont Associates • Terri Taylor, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP Marsha Temple, Colorado Automobile Dealers Association

DESIGN DIRECTOR Courtney Nielsen

ART DIRECTORS Traci Zellmann, Taylor Kilgore, Olivia Curti

P RODUCTION DIRECTOR Dianne Talmage

P ROJECT COORDINATORS Brittni Dye, Kristina Vis

C IRCULATION DIRECTOR Jeremy Wieland

SUBSC RIPTION MARKETING SPECIALIST Josh Jaskulka

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE Chris Adamietz

C REDIT MANAGER April McCauley

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SPECIALIST Jared Lawson

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Kristin Mastantuono

W EB ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Angela Beissel

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6 Exhibit Halls with 584,000 sq.ft. of space on one level

63 meeting rooms with 100,000 sq.ft. of meeting space on one level

2 ballrooms and 85,000 sq.ft. of space on one level

5,000 Bellco Theatre with cut down capability

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VICE PRESIDENT OF DEVELOPMENT Susan Isay DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & Jim Younger BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

900 South Third St., Minneapolis, MN 55415 Phone: 612.548.3180 Fax: 612.548.3181

Published

To inquire or book, call or email Rich Carollo at 3o3.228.8022 or rcarollo@denverconvention.com

TIGER OAK MEDIA

We’re Better Together

IT HAS BEEN A PRIVILEGE TO PRESENT BEST OF COLORADO READERS’ CHOICE awards and to shake peoples’ hands and present certificates while they cross the stage at our annual awards celebration, now in its 14th year. I’ve been at every one and crossed into my 16th year as editor!

It’s kind of like the Academy Awards for our industry in Colorado, but there are no long-winded acceptance speeches! Just a toast and a cheer for a job well done. A big congratulations to this year’s winners and our 2020 Hall of Fame inductees. Also, a huge thank you to our event sponsors and partners, event planners and several behind-the-scenes staff at Tiger Oak Media, our home office. Readers and the industry nominate and select Best of Colorado winners via an online vote, whereas Hall of Fame Inductees are selected by our 15-member editorial advisory board (EAB) made up of industry representatives from around the state. For the first time, we had a past Hall of Fame inductee, Ellen Collins from Vail Resorts, receive the Lifetime Achievement Award after being inducted five years ago in the Best Supplier category. The EAB decided that as Hall of Famers progress in their careers over the years, they should be eligible for Lifetime Achievement recognition. Hats off to Ellen, who also recently became president of Destination Colorado after Kathy Reak from Visit Colorado Springs served in the role for several years.

It takes a village for an industry to thrive, and Colorado Meetings + Events is thrilled to be part of the energetic and successful meetings and events industry in Colorado. Best of Colorado on March 9 kicks off what has become informally known as Colorado Meetings Week, and I hope to see you at the Meeting Industry Council of Colorado’s Educational Conference & Trade show on March 10 and 11, which continues the three days of demonstrating we are all better together. Cheers!

Beth Buehler

Find, Friend, Follow

Find

/COMEETINGSMAGS

Beth Buehler, editor CONTACT ME AT BETH.BUEHLER@TIGEROAK.COM

PHOTO: JULIE COPLEY

Molly Brown House Museum, Denver

This dynamic conference offers a two-day educational package, speakers showcase and trade show... and is THE signature event for meeting and event professionals in the Rocky Mountain Region and the West.

Sponsored and Produced by the 13 member organizations of MIC www.mic-colorado.org

The Meetings Industry Council (MIC) of Colorado would like to thank our sponsors of the 20th Annual MIC of Colorado Educational Conference and Trade Show! Without your support this conference would not be possible.

2020 Gold SponSorS

2020 platinum SponSorS

2020 diamond SponSorS

2020 Silver SponSorS

2020 Bronze SponSorS

Meeting Notes

MEETING MAGIC

Glowforge creates meaningful moments with 3D laser printers.

LIKE MAGIC, Glowforge can bring your attendees’ digital design dreams to life with its 3D laser printers. From phone stands and luggage tags to key chains and coffee sleeves, Glowforge can print customized souvenirs for each of your attendees to take home after what will be one of the most memorable events they’ve ever experienced.

“There are a ton of ways meetings planners can use Glowforge printers at meetings and events,” says Dan Shapiro, CEO and founder. “Glowforge printers on an expo floor are sure to wow attendees and get them engaged at any event. We’ve seen Glowforge printers drive booth traffic, drawing constant streams of people coming to a booth to watch.”

Attendees can create their own designs by doodling with a pen, and Glowforge can then engrave their designs on anything from a notebook to a luggage tag.

“Meeting planners can also leverage Glowforge to make a ton of swag, corporate

giveaways and event marketing items right from the office or home ahead of the conference to shave costs and time associated with outsourcing event preparation,” Shapiro adds. With materials costing about 25 cents per person, Glowforge uses leather, wood, acrylic and even chocolate to create customized souvenirs in less than five minutes.

“Glowforge can print any souvenir you can think up within minutes. This means you can print trophies for the team members who drove the most leads right in front of them. Or you can challenge the team to a team-building activity to see who can come up with the most creative design to print on a Glowforge,” Shapiro says. “You can also quickly commemorate the event on the spot by adding the date and a theme of the meeting onto a keepsake for folks to take home. The possibilities are truly endless.”

—Kassidy Tarala

5 TIPS FOR BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN

Simple ways to make an indoor meeting feel like it’s being held outside.

BY JACLYN PATRICK

KIMPTON HOTEL BORN SITS NEXT TO THE TRAIN TRACKS OF DENVER’S UNION STATION, the city’s transportation hub. In tandem with the hustle and bustle of city life, Hotel Born projects a Rocky Mountain feel with alpinemodern spaces that exude warmth and rusticity, which is exactly what groups and visitors want when they come to Denver. Here are a few tips from the team at Hotel Born that range from décor to catering and everything in between to help attendees get the true feel of the outdoors even if they never leave the city.

1. Bring the outdoors in through décor. Warm lighting, earth tones and textured materials make a space feel like a home. Think string lights, plants, grass walls, hand-woven rugs and warm-colored furniture pieces.

2. Highlight spaces with natural light. Because the connection between the indoors and outdoors is so integral to the Colorado experience, try to hold meetings in rooms with large floor-to-ceiling windows and doors. Let in the crisp Rocky Mountain air and utilize natural light from windows to highlight seating and dining areas when you can.

3. Offer spaces to actually get outside. Utilize terraces and patios for cocktail receptions or for break areas during meetings. Action stations around the hotel or meeting

space offer a progressive way to maximize space and let people move around. For example, Hotel Born features a porte cochère and terrace overlooking Denver Union Station.

4. Use natural design materials.

For example, Hotel Born’s natural and handcrafted materials create a balance of wood, concrete and metal, which together capture Denver’s sophisticated locale while referencing the pine-filled mountains visible from the hotel’s west-facing windows. See what materials your venue utilizes.

5. Stick to nature when it comes to food. Outdoor-style food is another way to bring the outdoors in, such as torch-on-demand s’mores, a ceviche bar or dry-aged beef. Hotel Born utilizes a grill to give an outdoor BBQ taste to

wood-fired oysters, dry-aged hot dogs, bison burgers and even garnishes for drinks! Want to pay homage to a particular creature? Create a honey board to celebrate bees with everything on the board featuring honey, including the salad dressing, entrée and dessert.

LeakyCon,

Oct. 23 – 25, 2020

World’s largest convention for Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World fans to be held in Denver for first time.

Where: Crowne Plaza Denver Airport Convention Center

Highlights: Panels, programs, a marketplace and performances by Wizard Rock bands are all dreamed up with the biggest Harry Potter fans in mind. Stars and creators of the Harry Potter films talk about their experiences, bringing the stories to life.

Background: In 2019, LeakyCon celebrated its 10th anniversary with two events in Dallas and Boston and a special pop-up at Rose City Comic Con in Portland, Oregon. This year, LeakyCon also will host an event July 31 – Aug. 2 in Orlando.

Organizer: Mischief Management has been producing this event for more than a decade. Mischief Management’s event lineup also includes Con of Thrones for fans of “Game of Thrones” and the writings of George R.R. Martin; BroadwayCon for fans of theatre and Broadway; and PodcastCon for podcast fans and creators. The company also organizes AlienCon and HistoryCon on behalf of A+E Networks.

For the Details: leakycon.com

JACLYN PATRICK , DIRECTOR OF CATERING + CONFERENCE SERVICES AT HOTEL BORN, HAS WORKED FOR KIMPTON HOTELS + RESTAURANTS FOR 11 YEARS, BRINGING A PASSION FOR EVENTS, PLANNING, DÉCOR AND F&B.

Floor-to-ceiling windows in Hotel Born’s Kenosha Ballroom; dry-age room at Citizen Rail; and terrace overlooking Denver Union Station.

Tips for Optimizing Your Keynote Investment

Keynote speakers can be very expensive, but they’re easily relegated to a check-box item on a planner’s long to-do list.

BY DENNIS LAMANTIA

LANDING A BIG-NAME KEYNOTE SPEAKER can be a significant part of your conference budget. That person should add credibility to the event and hopefully boost attendance. But if your speakers just deliver canned presentations before making a quick exit for the airport, you and your attendees are missing the full value they can bring to an event. With some extra planning, you can help set up the speaker and your event for success.

Think About a Schedule & Stick to It

Putting a speaker in a bad time slot is one of the most common misuses of a speaker’s time, according to Timothy Mathy, senior partner at SpeakInc. His advice when thinking about the schedule is to save the analytical and less entertaining topics for earlier in the day. “Listening to a heavy speaker after a morning of industry-specific sessions and a big lunch is tough. The brain needs a break, and the speaker needs to have humor,” he says.

Once you have a schedule, do your best to stick to it. Mathy says he’s seen clients shorten the keynote speaking time because sessions from earlier in the day ran over. “Keynote speakers are the people you paid, sometimes big money, to be there. Why cut their time in half?”

Find Opportunities for One-onOne Interactions

The keynote is the most efficient way for a speaker to share a message, but one-on-one interactions will make the event memorable. “We hosted an exclusive VIP cocktail party with our keynote economic speaker and our

top clients the night before our event,” says Laura Johnson, CMP, senior event engagement and community relations manager at Vectra Bank Colorado. “It provided the guests the chance to ask one-on-one questions about topics like their personal investment plans.”

These kinds of unscripted interactions have benefits for the speaker and planner. The speaker gets the pulse of the audience, and the attendee gets personalized expert advice. One-on-one interactions could include meals, participation in your corporate social responsibility project, an exclusive book reading, or golf and other activities.

Get Your Speaker the Inside Scoop

“Give your speakers access to your organization. Let them chat with employees or members so they can customize the speech,” suggests Mathy. Help the speaker gather a diversity of opinions and not just talking points from upper management.

Previous speakers are also a good source of information about your organization. “We have had a few speakers that ask what have previous speakers done that has been suc-

cessful. As a result, it gives them an idea of how they can use their skills and tailor their presentation to what seems to have worked in the past,” offers Johnson.

Figure out What Resonated

Attendee feedback is critical for keeping your conference content relevant. “[Surveys] give our customers the opportunity to help us determine what hot topics are out there and possibly affecting their businesses now and in the future,” says Johnson.

In addition to a survey, in-person feedback during the event can get you more candid responses and might even lead you to next year’s speaker. Your attendees probably go to other conferences throughout the year, and they might have heard someone who’d be a perfect fit.

Taking some extra time to work with your speaker before the event and thoughtfully planning the schedule can pay big dividends. It will enrich your attendees’ experiences, which in turn will help generate buzz (and registrations) for next year’s event.

DENNIS LAMANTIA IS A DENVER-BASED NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER FOR EXPERIENT. HE CAN BE REACHED AT DENNIS.LAMANTIA@EXPERIENTSELECT.COM.

PHOTOS: (OPPOSITE) RICHARD HARO; JOSIAH ROE; JOHN EISELE; FARM FUSION

SIX CLASSIC FORT COLLINS PAIRINGS

It’s easy to meld urban adventures with brewery or culinary experiences that are sure to leave attendees grinning.

1. Pair an artistic adventure at the brand new Board & Brush creative studio at The Exchange in Old Town with a stop at Copper Muse Distillery or Infinite Monkey Theorem winery, located in the same open-air plaza.

2.

Soak up nature at one of the nearly 50 nearby natural areas and then channel attendees’ inner winemaker at the new Blendings at the Preserve, where they can blend and bottle their own perfect vino concoctions.

3. Combine ice skating at City Park or fat biking at Lory State Park with hot chocolate and pie at Ginger and Baker.

4. Attend a football game or host a private event or meeting at Colorado State University’s relatively new Canvas Stadium, followed by a visit to a classic local brewery, like CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewery (Fort Collins’ oldest brewpub) or New Belgium Brewing (the 4th largest craft brewer in the United States).

5. Pair the Fort Collins Foodie Walk, offered the third Friday evening of each month, with a taste of the community’s live music scene. The walk features 12 of Old Town’s culinary shops that offer interactive showcases, seasonal flavors and taste experiences. Check out who’s playing at the historic Aggie Theatre or the newest music venue in town, Washington’s, which can hold up to 900.

6. Offer a farm-to-table cooking class at Farm Fusion (like Hunter’s Field to Plate or Me Oh My, Let’s Make Some Pie) and a stop at the local farmers market.

Aggie Theatre

Canvas Stadium

FIZZY TEA CANS FROM TEAKOE

Brewed and packaged on-site at Teakoe Tea Supply Co.’s ecofriendly Denver facility, new Fizzy Tea Cans are less than 30 calories, contain less than seven grams of sugar, made with organic ingredients and naturally sweetened with juice, herbs or raw honey. Fizzy Tea Cans are available nationwide in four flavors: Signature Cold Brew Black Tea; Pomegranate Hibiscus Green Tea; Pineapple Lemon Myrtle Yerba Maté; and Pear Garden Mint White Tea. The fizzy tea beverages provide alternatives for attendees who don’t drink coffee and soda or those who prefer something different than the norm. A portion of proceeds from every can are donated to the global Pollinator Awareness through Conservation and Education.

Former professional athlete Pete Jokisch noticed the benefits of drinking tea for both mental alertness and physical benefits and founded Teakoe in 2009 while juggling a full-time career in business-to-business sales and playing for the Colorado Mammoth, a National Lacrosse League team. teakoe.com

SIGNATURE DRINK»

The Paloma

Courtesy of Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, Various Locations, Colorado

Ingredients:

~ 2 oz. Jose Cuervo Traditional Silver or another silver tequila

~ .5 oz. Aperol

~ 1 oz. simple syrup

~ 1 oz. fresh-squeezed lime juice

~ 1 oz. fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice (Ruby Reds from Texas are best, tastiest from November through April)

~ 1 oz. soda water (a favorite is Topo Chico)

~ 5 oz. ice

~ Dehydrated grapefruit wheel for garnish, optional

Directions:

Shake all ingredients, except for the soda. Pour into a Collins glass over ice, top with soda water and stir. Garnish with a dehydrated grapefruit wheel if desired.

Wake Up Your Trade Show Booth

Exhibitors at the 2019 Destination Colorado Front Range Trade Show flex their creative muscle.

Suppliers and meeting and event planners from around Colorado gather each year at Destination Colorado’s Front Range Trade Show to network and book business. The 23rd annual event happened on Dec. 5 at Empower Field Mile High’s United Club Level West Lounge in Denver. As usual, exhibitors were innovative with booth design and swag. Here are some fun examples.

2019 INTERNATIONAL FLY TACKLE DEALER SHOW

A return to Denver results in major increases in attendance.

The world’s largest fly-fishing industry trade show crushed attendance records with its Denver homecoming in October 2019 after a seven-year run in Orlando. The International Fly Tackle Dealer Show’s (IFTD) registration partner, Experient, verified that 2,251 attendees took part in the event, which is a 97 percent increase over 2017 numbers (1,141) and a 137 percent increase over 2018 (950). The event is set to return to the Colorado Convention Center Oct. 7–9, 2020.

“The fly-fishing industry showed up and made a statement this year,” says Ben Bulis, president of the Bozeman-based American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA), which owns and operates the trade show, the largest of its kind in the world. “The decision to once again make the show a standalone fly-fishing event, schedule it in October and return to our roots in Denver was the result of direct conversations with our membership. We know that there’s no way to please everyone, but the results are loud and clear: IFTD is home.”

Booth space sold out in less than a month (10 months before the event) with 156 exhibitors staking their claim on the show floor, and nearly 300 individual retailers representing 41 different countries were on hand to review and purchase merchandise. In addition, there were 15 educational seminars; a Wednesday morning industry breakfast featuring keynote speaker Steven Rinella, host of the Netflix series “MeatEater;” and a new product showcase with 267 entries vying for best-of recognition in their respective categories.

The event also featured two themes that the fly-fishing industry has been rallying behind: the #kickplastic initiative and promoting diversity on the water. IFTD was entirely single-use plastic-free, using eco-board signage and compostable plates, cups and eating utensils, reusable water bottles and filling stations, evergreen badge lanyards and more. affta.org/iftd-show

longmont GET TO KNOW...

BY HANNAH CULLEN

CVB SPOTLIGHT »

Population: 95,000

Location: Less than an hour away from Fort Collins, Denver and Boulder, Longmont is very much centralized on northern Colorado’s Front Range. Made up of a combination of certified creative and historic downtown districts and St. Vrain State Park on its outskirts, Longmont is a lively scene for those who appreciate a mix of urban and outdoor living.

Transportation: Getting around Longmont is easy with paved greenways for walkers and bicyclists and local public buses offering free fares to riders. The community is situated along Interstate 25 and is only 40 miles from Denver International Airport.

Venues & Hotels: Longmont has intimate meeting and event spaces. Mikayla Adair, marketing and communications coordinator for Visit Longmont recommends The St Vrain with its mix of brick, wood, industrious metal and soft lighting that is both rustic and chic. Meanwhile, the Oak Room at Oskar Blues Brewery exudes warm and friendly vibes with playful nuances like distilling barrels and live bands to give business meetings and events a more laid-back atmosphere. Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hotel 2 Suites are the newest lodging properties in town and offer common places for meeting and events, as they have spaces to accommodate larger groups.

Food: The award-winning Haystack Mountain Creamery is well-known for goat cheese in particular, but the business also makes a wide variety of other cheeses for purchase. For restaurants with private dining spaces, Adair suggests Collision Brewing due to its breathtaking views, in-house food, bar and separate area for meetings. The Wild Game Entertainment Experience is another

great option with 24,000 square feet of space, multiple levels, various rooms and many different menu and activity options all under one roof.

Breweries: A memorable way to host parties or corporate events is the BrewHop Trolley. The trolley travels through the Longmont loop of breweries, cideries and distilleries. It’s a great way for riders to explore the area and indulge in local libations.

How the CVB helps: Visit Longmont’s website has a section specifically for groups/meetings where you can find suggested dining spaces, meeting rooms, hotels, vendors and more. Visit Longmont staff are available to connect meeting planners to properties and venues and distribute informational bags that include guides, maps and complimentary swag.

The Wild Game Entertainment Experience Sol y Sombra Farm

Wibby Brewing

Sonnenalp Hotel, Vail

This longtime property blends the spirit of the Colorado Rocky Mountains with European hospitality and traditions.

From the moment you approach and step inside The Sonnenalp, it’s immediately apparent that it’s completely different from most ski-town hotels in the United States. The exterior, lobby, staff uniforms, restaurants and meeting space have a distinctly European feel, and for good reason as five generations of the Faessler family have set and maintained the highest standards of hospitality and service at their Sonnenalp Resorts in Ofterschwang, Germany, and Vail.

In 2019, both resorts celebrated significant anniversaries, with Sonnenalp Vail reaching 40 years of hospitality and Sonnenalp Germany celebrating 100 years. When the small bed and breakfast that inspired the Sonnenalp first opened in Germany in the early years of the 20th century, Vail wasn’t even on the map. As that humble German inn transformed into what would become a celebrated hotel and resort, its founders envisioned opening a location in the United States. In the 1960s, the burgeoning ski village at the base of Vail Mountain became the ideal spot. The modest lodge that the Faesslers established 40 years ago led to the respected hotel that rests at the heart of Vail Village today. sonnenalp.com

At a Glance

Guest Rooms: 112 luxury suites and 15 hotel rooms

Meeting Space: 5,000-plus square feet that can accommodate groups of up to 250. Partners with two nearby properties, The Sebastian-Vail and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail, as “The Pinnacle of Vail” to provide larger groups with more than 23,000 square feet of gathering space.

On-Site Food and Beverage Outlets: 5

Amenities: Ski concierges, indoor/ outdoor pools and whirlpools, fitness

center, spa with café and oxygen bar, and more.

Group Adventures: Examples include lunch with a llama, stand-up paddleboard float trip and riverside lunch, hike with a photographer, and hike and paint.

Off-Site Activities: Sonnenalp Vail guests are invited to play the semiprivate, championship golf course at Sonnenalp Club located 16 miles west of Vail Village in Edwards. The club also has three pools, four tennis courts and Harvest restaurant. sonnenalpclub.com

DISTINCT VENUE »

MOSS DENVER

Check out this urban industrial event venue in Denver’s Santa Fe Arts District.

When Built: Constructed in 1936, originally as a door factory. The Chandelier Room was used as production space and the Edison Room as a showroom.

Design Style: Urban industrial artistry

Highlights: Rotating moss wall, brick exterior, exposed rafters, polished cement floors, large factory-style windows and surrounding arts district

Event Spaces:

Chandelier Room - Named for the chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, this 3,000-square-foot space accommodates up to 300 for a standing cocktail reception or 200 guests for a seated dinner and has an in-house A/V system.

Edison Room - The Edison Room has glass ceilings with classic Edison bulb-style lighting and 10-foot-tall, moss-covered rotating walls that add natural inspiration to the 2,600-square-foot space. The permanent waterfall-bar is truly unique, and the layout can fit 200 guests standing and 120 guests seated for a meal.

Find Out More: mossdenver.com. Also see Hall of Fame photos starting on page 42.

Moss Denver

HELP WANTED

6 Low-Cost or No-Cost Recruiting Tools

Attracting the best on a budget.

BY JEREMY ESKENAZI

Recruiting in the meetings and events industry can be challenging in any economy. When times are good, top candidates have many options, and when times are bad, employed people don’t want to make a move. As with any challenge, it’s important to tackle it strategically. When it comes to acquiring talent, having your sourcing strategy and process in place should happen before you even need to hire someone.

You may be wondering why you need a search strategy before you need candidates. With the market quickly fluctuating, it’s important to know where to look and what type of talent you will be looking for, because as much as you want to snap your fingers and have amazing candidates appear, it often takes a lot longer than that.

To help you get started, here are some lowcost or no-cost sourcing channels that could be considered as part of a recruiting strategy.

REFERRALS

Employee referrals (ER) are the No. 1 source of candidates by far—and usually rated the best quality source. ER programs don’t always need to have a monetary reward, though many do, and the best focus is on recognition and simplicity.

Recognizing employees quickly for their referral is the key. Instead of monetary rewards, think about other less-costly rewards that focus on the recognition. Try not to put too many rules or barriers to participate in the process. If you pay a reward, consider paying it

immediately upon hire and consider alternative ways to pay including branded debit cards or check ceremonies.

JOB BOARDS

Job boards are great for attracting active candidates. Ensure that your team’s postings are well written from a candidate’s “what’s in it for me” perspective. Don’t use company acronyms and slang. Check out and “borrow” great postings using the job board’s search system. Make sure your posting is easily findable and refreshed regularly. Resume databases are quite expensive, and because of this, they aren’t suggested if you are focusing on lowcost resources. However, there are some other alternatives to this option including the use of free or “niche” job boards.

SOCIAL NETWORKS

This is a great opportunity to find more passive candidates who may not be applying to your open job postings. Using social networks only help your recruiters find possible targets to contact; you still have to call or contact these people! Keep this in mind when you are planning your recruitment strategy. Since time is limited, focus on the best resources.

LinkedIn: First, make sure your team members are easily found. Their profiles should be complete and public. Change the settings in LinkedIn to ensure that they are searchable in Google. There are places on profiles to include links to websites for your company and other information. Your team should thoughtfully

ask and answer questions in LinkedIn to be more findable.

Use LinkedIn Groups to join and start groups, and you can post jobs here for free! Invite people who can expand your network to find the type of people you want (like your hiring managers). You can use these LinkedIn sources to build a call list to actually call or e-mail them directly (outside of LinkedIn). LinkedIn “InMail” is limited and more expensive.

Facebook: Facebook is still targeted at a slightly younger audience. It’s harder to find sources on Facebook, but your team can use regular searches to find their co-workers, classmates and others to get beyond their own network. Search for friends on Facebook or leverage it to find candidates to join Facebook pages that are appropriate to you and your jobs. Facebook company pages are also great ways to attract candidates.

Twitter & Instagram: It is even harder to find people on these platforms, but a lot of posts are public and searchable. Use these sites to broadcast your jobs (video job descriptions starring current employees or your CEO are a popular low-cost option) to relevant people or talk about your company’s culture.

BLOGS

Search relevant online blogs for subject matter experts and sources of candidate referrals. Find blogs by using Google Blog search and review the About Me section. Look at their blogroll to find others who share the same

interest. Discussion groups are great places to search, too. You can simply review content and decide if you want to pursue.

GOOGLE

Googling for candidates is an even more spe cialized skill and is one that is free, provided the recruiter has the skill to do it well. There are great resources out there to learn how to do this even more effectively. Remember, the lowest-cost solution may not always be the best resource to actually save money if it ends up taking an unskilled person triple the time to complete the task.

RESUME MINING SERVICES

Instead of buying expensive resume database access, consider using a resume mining ser vice. These services offer a low-cost solution on a per-job basis or in packages of jobs. The work they do is simple: they source and scour internet online resume databases for actual resumes and provide the resumes to you, usu ally overnight. Most services can offer an addi tional resource to do quick telephone screens on the resumes submitted.

Sourcing can be stressful, but with a game plan and a little creativity you can find the best talent with little or even no budget. Good luck with your sourcing efforts!

JEREMY ESKENAZI IS A SPEAKER, AUTHOR OF “RECRUITCONSULT! LEADERSHIP,” AND FOUNDER OF CALIFORNIA-BASED RIVIERA ADVISORS, A RECRUITMENT/TALENT ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT AND OPTIMIZATION CONSULTING FIRM.

GET INTO THE SPIRIT

BY KASSIDY TARALA

SOMETIMES A BOARDROOM JUST WON’T CUT IT FOR A MEETING.

When you want to lighten the mood, create a fun atmosphere or invite your team to an elevated happy hour, consider booking space in one of Colorado’s many distilleries.

From breathtaking mountain views and intimate event spaces to cocktail-making classes and sampling sessions, distilleries offer a comfortable setting for meetings, events, team-building and everything in between.

Dry Land Distillers

Located in Longmont, Dry Land Distillers is an international award-winning distillery known for its single grain, 100 percent wheat whiskeys and original spirits with native prickly pear cactus.

“Our spirits are developed to authentically bring Colorado into our bottles, and we use only the original agricultural ingredients. All our spirits are distilled on-site, and each

one is from an original recipe,” says Nels Wroe, founder.

Dry Land Distillers offers a small, comfortable mid-century space that can seat up to 20 people bar-style with small tables and chairs. Team-building workshops are available for groups, including an option where guests develop their own gin, try completing a whiskey mash or team up to create signature cocktails.

“Dry Land Distillers can enroll individuals or small groups into Distiller for a Day, Create Your Own Cocktails, Cocktails 101 or other custom-developed classes. Group tastings are always available,” Wroe says.

Prices range from $150-$300 per hour depending on the time of year and day of the week. The tab for buyouts typically includes cocktails as part of the rental, and bar snacks and cookies are included at no additional fee.

“Dry Land Catering is also available,” notes Wroe. “We can offer foods such as our famous Colorado green chili, melted onion pizzas and a range of other selections from our catering partner. Groups are welcome to bring in their own food or snacks, and we can arrange to order food from a range of local restaurants, including Rosalee’s Pizzeria, Smokin Bowls, Summit Tacos, or Georgia Boys BBQ.”

Meet, drink and be merry by hosting a gatheirng at one of Colorado’s outstanding distilleries.

Elkins Distilling Co.

Elkins Distilling Co.

You really can’t get more Colorado than this Estes Park distillery. Elkins Distilling Co. boasts a large, open tasting room that can accommodate 70 standing or 60 seated. At about 1,500 square feet, the space is cozy and welcoming after coming in from the spacious outdoor patio with mountain views, fire pits, picnic tables and seating for 50 to 60 guests.

“Outside of just the space and the view, we offer tours (various levels of education) and tastings. The process of trying various spirits, describing what one is tasting, whether you like it or not, and being able to express why is a lot more challenging than you might think,” says McShan Walker, founder.

Most often, Elkins Distilling Co. hosts rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions and other celebrations, but the space is also used for a speaker series called Wilderness and Whisky that brings together people from conservationists and scientists to athletes and artists who are looking out for the land everyone enjoys and depends on.

“We’ve held various political meet and greets, fundraisers for our community, local artist expos, corporate meetings and just about anything that involves people coming together for an event we’d like to be a part of,” Walker adds.

Elkins Distilling Co. offers patio rentals or full buyouts from $100-$600 per hour, depending on the day of the week, time of day/ year, number of people and space needed.

Marble Distilling Co.

With tasting rooms in Carbondale and Aspen, Marble Distilling Co. provides welcoming spaces with modern mountain décor and a focus on sustainability. In Carbondale, the tasting room can accommodate 60 seated or 95 standing and the barrel club can host 20 seated and 35 standing. Two outdoor patios,

one covered with a fireplace and the other open-air for summer and fall, also are options. Marble Bar Aspen opened in 2017 within the Hyatt Residence Club Grand Aspen and is a great spot for lounging fireside and finding live music, comedy, trivia and more.

“We are a first-of-its-kind sustainable distillery being named by the Sierra Club as one of five distilleries in the world who are ‘toasting the planet’s health.’ We are the first distillery to have a hotel housed in the same building as the distillery, so you can ‘sleep with the stills,’” says Connie Baker, head distiller.

Marble Distilling Co. offers a Tour & Tasting where groups can see firsthand the sustainable distilling practices and then utilize the tasting room or barrel club for meetings, team-building and events. Other events in Carbondale include comedy, trivia, Class & Glass (think painting, ceramics, yoga and cocktails), and music.

Group tastings are available by request along with a weeklong DIY Distilling Class, where guests can make their own whiskey and barrel it.

Dry Land Distillers

Steamboat Whiskey Company

Rentals of the barrel club are $500 on Fridays and Saturdays, and a buyout of Marble Bar Aspen is $1,500. Full buyouts of the tasting room, barrel club and distillery at the Carbondale location are $2,500. Weekdays are seasonally priced.

Montanya Distillers

Located in Crested Butte, Montanya Distillers is known for both its premium rums, No. 1 Restaurant in Crested Butte rating on TripAdvisor, and commitment to the environment, local community and its staff. As a certified B Corporation, Montanya Distillers also is committed to being a force for good and putting people and the planet before profit.

With an emphasis on premium American craft rum, artisan cocktails and keeping ingredients simple, Montanya Distillers often wows guests with its flavors and all-natural ingredients: non-GMO sugar cane grown in Louisiana, mountain spring water and yeast. Montanya Distillers also makes its own cock-

tail bitters and frequently experiments with new recipes, changing up the cocktail and food menus seasonally.

The welcoming atmosphere can accommodate 75 in a cocktail-style setup or 56 seated, and owners Brice and Karen Hoskin encourage groups to take advantage of the distillery’s experiences, including artisan cocktail lessons and free tastings and distillery tours. Groups can reserve certain sections or purchase full buyouts, which are priced on an event-byevent basis.

Steamboat Whiskey Company

Self-described as Wild West meets industrial, Steamboat Whiskey Company in Steamboat Springs boasts 1,100 square feet of space, including an outdoor patio complete with a fire pit. The distillery’s lounge seating, bar seating and stage make it an ideal venue for groups interested in watching bands perform live.

“We do holiday parties, birthday/surprise parties, professional networking events, busi-

ness happy hours, fundraisers like the Puppy Pageant, which is just what it sounds like. We donate the profits to animal charities,” says founder Jessica Newhall.

With almost everything made in-house, from the spirits to the tonics, Steamboat Whiskey Company puts new meaning behind “locally made.” More importantly, Newhall adds, Steamboat Whiskey Company donates thousands of dollars every year to local nonprofits and as a veteran-owned and operated business, donates to several charities serving veterans.

“Whiskey has been at the center of social gatherings for millennia. It is nature’s oldest social lubricant and helps break the ice,” Newhall says. “The cozy vibe in our bar helps people feel comfortable so they can relax and have fun with their teammates.”

Steamboat Whiskey Company offers tours by appointment, which can include group tastings. Pricing is dependent on event specifics.

Montanya Distillers

Marble Distilling Co.

Embassy Suites Loveland

The Ranch Events Complex

Stranahan’s Distillery

Located in Denver, Stranahan’s Distillery offers flexible event space options. The Distillery Lounge can hold 30 seated or 40 receptionstyle, the Pilot Still Room hosts up to 30, and the Visitor Center can accommodate up to 75 guests for a reception when combining the Distillery Lounge, General Store and Tasting Room. A full distillery buyout translates into a maximum of 450 guests for a reception.

Stranahan’s Distillery, the first legal distillery in Colorado’s post-Prohibition era, also offers a variety of tours, whiskey tastings and cocktail classes. The most popular option for groups is the VIP tour, which includes a 1.5hour, in-depth look into the more technical aspects of the distilling process, with special tastings not offered to the general public. It can be incorporated into a venue rental or hosted on its own. Private cocktail classes for up to 20 guests are led by a head mixologist in the Distillery Lounge.

Rental rates vary depending on the venue selected and add-ons, like the private VIP tours, cocktail classes and custom-engraved whiskey bottles as take-home gifts. All venue rentals include use of the venue for up to four hours, dedicated mixologists and servers, and curated seasonal cocktails.

Telluride Distilling Company

Last on our list of Colorado distilleries— though there are certainly many more we could mention—is Telluride Distilling Company. Located in southwest Colorado, this Telluride distillery has a 2,200-square-foot tasting room that feels like a tranquil cabin setting, complete with billiards and several TVs. The tasting room doesn’t close for private events, but the distillery welcomes plenty of meetings and team-building activities.

Classes and tastings are available for groups, and since the distillery doesn’t close to the public, it’s a convenient place to meet when a traditional buyout fee isn’t in the budget.

Even if there is no time in a meeting itinerary to plan a distillery event, consider bringing Colorado spirits and distillers on-site for a tasting or reception. You won’t be disappointed or thirsty!

Get Connected

Surrounded by the splendor of the majestic Colorado Rockies, Viceroy Snowmass offers more than 9,000 square feet of striking indoor and outdoor options for any size event of celebration–all wrapped in nature’s grandeur with year-round activities and unparalleled amenities.

Surrounded by the splendor of the majestic Colorado Rockies, Viceroy Snowmass offers more than 9,000 square feet of striking indoor and outdoor options for any size event or celebration—all wrapped in nature’s grandeur with year-round activities and unparalleled amenities.

By Beth Buehler

Best Brewery/ Distillery/Winery with Event Space

BIGSBY’S FOLLY CRAFT WINERY & RESTAURANT bigsbysfolly.com

The Setting:

| 720.485.3158

» Beautifully restored building that dates back to 1886

» Thirty-foot exposed timber ceilings, original brick walls, oversized chandeliers and an abundance of natural light

» More than 7,000 square feet and six event spaces accommodate groups from 10 to more than 300 guests

» Full-service venue with customized food and beverage (wine, beer, spirits) menus

COM+E: What makes your business distinct?

BF: Most of the other wineries, breweries and distilleries can only serve their products. We have a full liquor license. Other venues need to partner with food caterers, but we have a full kitchen capable of creating a fully customized menu, from buffet and passed to seated and family-style. We hosted over 200 events last year, including corporate meetings, wedding ceremonies and receptions, rehearsal dinners, conferences, trade shows, showers, birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and more.

Runners-up: Breckenridge Brewery; Great Divide Brewing Co.

Best Audio-Visual Provider

J&S AUDIO VISUAL jsav.com | 303.792.5588

COM+E: What are some recent standout moments?

J&S: “Two local events stand out: The National Jewish Health Beaux Arts Ball at the Hyatt Regency Denver Convention Center, where we partnered with Imprint Group and Design Works to bring a mid-century circus to life. We also were honored to produce the ALHI 20th annual Industry Executive Council at The Broadmoor.”

COM+E: What sets your company apart?

J&S: “What makes us the choice in event production is the high value we place on customer partnerships. We believe that a successful event is the culmination of solid teamwork, the sharing of ideas, a commitment to quality and innovation and outstanding customer service.”

Runners-up: Image Audiovisuals; PSAV

BEST HOTEL, RESORT OR RANCH WITH MEETING/ EVENT SPACE (IN DENVER METRO)

GAYLORD ROCKIES RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER gaylordrockies.com | 720.452.6900

BY THE NUMBERS:

1,501 guest rooms, including 114 suites

317 guest rooms to be added through $80 million expansion to wrap up in early 2022

517,000 -plus square feet of exhibition, meeting, pre-function and outdoor space

78 breakout rooms

69 event rooms

8 food & beverage outlets

17 rooms at Relache Spa and Salon

22,000 square feet of aquatic experiences

Event Snapshot: Grand opening event in March 2019 with 250 key meeting planners and a private concert by Darius Rucker. The 35,000-square-foot Adams Ballroom was transformed into a contemporary-style campfire space for the concert, emphasizing Colorado’s adventurous spirit in an elevated way. Glamping elements were added throughout the ballroom, including a tented stage with ambient lighting.

Runners-up: Four Seasons Hotel Denver; The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa

Best Arts & Cultural Venue

RED ROCKS PARK AND AMPHITHEATRE

redrocksonline.com | 303.697.6047

Quick Glance: Not only is Red Rocks a worldrenowned concert venue, the 30,000-square-foot visitor center houses a full-service restaurant, interactive displays, history of the venue, Performers Hall of Fame and event spaces that combine the property’s natural beauty with the excitement of live music.

Event Spaces: The Rock Room, Southwest Heart of the Rock Theatre, Ship Rock Grille, Upper Terrace, and Trading Post Backyard

Runners-up: Denver Botanic Gardens; Mission Ballroom

Best Caterer (in Denver Metro)

BISCUITS & BERRIES CATERING biscuitsandberries.com | 303.277.9677

Standout Moment: “What truly stands out the most is when we’re given the chance to make a difference. This year we were humbled by the opportunity to partner with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Children’s Hospital and Special Olympics for amazing benefit galas. All truly memorable moments for our team.”

New Services: “Stemming from our commitment to constant innovation, we are always offering new ways to wow guests like our Fire and Ice Sashimi Station, our Honeycomb Carving Station or any of our interactive dinnerscapes.”

Runners-up: Epicurean Catering; Footers Catering

BEST RESTAURANT WITH PRIVATE DINING SPACE

COOHILLS RESTAURANT coohills.com | 303.623.5700

Capacity: Full custom-seated dinners and cocktail receptions for 10 to 400 guests and capability to serve seven events simultaneously. Ability to host up to 600 guests using the adjacent Wewatta Bridge.

Standout Moments: Large private buyouts with aerial acrobats suspended from the bridge offering aerial bartending and doing live fire performances.

COM+E: What sets your company apart?

Coohills: We are a full scratch kitchen featuring house-made breads, pâtés, charcuterie and pastries, and we partner with local farmers and locally sourced vendors for our products. We are the only restaurant that sits along Cherry Creek in downtown Denver, featuring nightly sunsets and mountain views through our floor-to-ceiling windows.

Runners-up: Guard & Grace; Wynkoop Brewing Company

Best Convention/Conference Center

DENVER CONVENTION CENTER

denverconvention.com | 303.228.8000

BY THE NUMBERS:

584,000 square feet of exhibit space

63 meeting rooms totaling 100,000 square feet

35,000 -square-foot Four Seasons Ballroom

50,000 -square-foot Mile High Ballroom

5,000 -seat Bellco Theatre

1,000 parking spaces

11,000 -plus hotel rooms within walking distance

Upcoming Expansion:

» Up to 80,000 square feet of new meeting and ballroom space

» Addition of more than 100,000 square feet of new pre-function and service space that includes a 50,000-square-foot outdoor terrace on the roof of the existing convention center

» New and improved networking spaces that capture the spirit of Denver and Colorado

» Technology improvements that keep pace with current technologies and demand, including increased capacity for Wi-Fi and streaming video

Runners-up: Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center; Keystone Conference Center

BEST CATERER (OUTSIDE DENVER METRO)

A SPICE OF LIFE CATERING + EVENTS

aspiceoflife.com | 303.443.4049

Giving Back: For several years, A Spice of Life has hosted an annual Farm-to-Table Dinner at The Lyons Farmette and donated all ticket proceeds to PRIDE, a nonprofit dedicated to rural improvement and development in Ethiopia. Recently, co-owner Dan Bruckner and his family traveled to Ethiopia to witness the impact of a project that provided clean running water to more than 600 schoolchildren and teachers in the remote mountains.

Sustainability Initiatives: “As of 2019, we discontinued carrying single-use plastic water bottles and plastic beverage stir sticks and began collecting and recycling poly-plastic bags to remove them from the landfill-bound waste stream. After extensive research, we were able to source an alternative to plastic water bottles: an infinitely recyclable all-aluminum bottle!”

Runners-up: Garden of the Gods Catering + Events; Taste of the Wild Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

BEST DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY

IMPRINT EVENTS GROUP

imprintgroup.com

303.623.1492

Headquartered in Denver, Imprint offers a full array of DMC services in addition to meeting and event management, branding and design, production and in-house entertainment. Imprint also has offices in Vail/Beaver Creek, Orlando and Las Vegas and continues to grow, adding 13 people to its team in the last year and producing more than 1,100 programs and events annually. A Digital Division offering graphics, branding, design and video services was recently launched.

Quotable: “Six years after the formation of Imprint, we continue to reinvent and challenge ourselves and our team daily to provide thoughtful and innovative solutions for our client’s meeting and event needs.” – Nicole Marsh, Partner

Runners-up: ACCESS Destination Services; Convention Designs

PHOTOS: SCOTT DRESSEL-MARTIN; A SPICE OF LIFE; (OPPOSITE) CAMERON CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

Best Event Décor/Floral

Standout Moments from 2019:

» “Children’s Hospital gala was a study in shimmering heights and depths. Using absolutely no perimeter lighting décor, we were able to create drama and power using concentrations of marbled glass and raised candlelight.”

» “The opening party of Mission Ballroom and the Museum of Contemporary Art gala were equal and opposite in their alt-angst driven color palettes and play with hardware, construction site materials and extreme angles.”

» “The massive cinematic installation of holiday scenes at the Gaylord Rockies.”

What’s New: “Expanded production spaces in 2020 will allow for even larger events and deeper hard-good inventory for never-before-seen vessels and designs. We are adding in custom-hued, repurposed pillar and floating candles for all of our event clients’ needs.”

Runners-up: Design Works; Newberry Brothers

Best Holiday Party Venue

The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs goes all out for the holidays with an abundance of yuletide décor, happenings, entertainment and incredible works of gingerbread art. On the main campus, a huge array of meeting and event venues and private dining spaces can be booked for holiday gatherings, as well as nearby options such as Seven Falls, Cloud Camp and the newly remodeled Mountain Clubhouse, all with big views.

Until recently, Mountain Clubhouse was only available to golfers taking a break and enjoying a bite in the rustically elegant rock-and-timber building. The inside of the space has been totally redesigned to keep an intimate clubhouse feel that’s ideal for approximately 100 guests, and the outdoor patio can hold up to 300 during fair-weather months. In the winter, dinner can be set inside for up to 50 guests, while outdoor fire pits can help wrap up the evening with toasted marshmallows and s’mores.

Runners-up: Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa; Spruce Mountain Ranch

Best Meeting/ Event Planning Company

ACCESS

DESTINATION SERVICES

accessdmc.com | 303.862.6149

Highlights from 2019:

» National Apartment Association’s Urban Adventure

- Denver’s Sculpture Park was turned into an urban outdoor playground showing guests the best of what Colorado has to offer.

» Lease Labs’ Down the Rabbit Hole - Mile High Station was brought to life with eclectic colors, dense greenery and a whimsical, weird and eerie feel.

» Thomson Reuters - Wings

Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum was transformed from a WWII-era hangar into an evening of Colorado exploration. From Denver “rooftop” decks and jerky tastings to roaming beer bikes and a performance by the Flying Aces, the event soared above expectations.

Quotable: “What I like to do when I am diving into all of the details for an event is to actually step into our guest’s shoes. When I do this, I find that it creates a better experience and brings the event to the standards that each client’s guests specifically desire.”

– Kirstin Francis, Senior Creative Account Manager

Runners-up: Imprint Events Group; Kinsley Meetings

BEST HOTEL, RESORT OR RANCH WITH MEETING/EVENT SPACE (OUTSIDE DENVER METRO)

THE

broadmoor.com | 800.633.7711

What’s New:

» The Broadmoor’s new exhibition space, slated for completion this spring, encompasses more than 125,000 square feet and has 32 associated breakout rooms. The exhibit hall exterior matches the Italian Renaissance style of the resort, but the interior is less formal and designed to accommodate trade shows, exhibits and new product launches. It is exclusively available to multipurpose exhibits and events held in conjunction with The Broadmoor for multiday conferences, such as the Space Symposium, the planet’s largest space trade show.

» The new exhibit hall, along with the existing Broadmoor Hall, International Center and Colorado Hall, will comprise “The Broadmoor Event Center” featuring more than 315,000 square feet of gathering space.

Runners-up: Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa; Spruce Mountain Ranch

Best Entertainment Agency

IMPRINT ENTERTAINMENT

imprint-entertainment.com | 303.623.1492

Standout Moments from 2019: Produced the industry showcase event for Mission Ballroom when it opened in summer 2019, and rebranding from Dance Trax to Imprint Entertainment.

COM+E: What sets your company apart?

IE: “With our internal resources and diverse team, we are able to tailor entertainment offerings from custom lyrics and delivery to unique staging, branding and choreography. We’re beyond blessed to surround ourselves with a ridiculously talented team of producers, entertainers and talent that go out and give their heart to each and every client we work with.”

Runners-up: 5 Star Talent and Entertainment; Elite Entertainment

PHOTOS: DAVE INGRAHAM; THE BROADMOOR; (OPPOSITE) FROM THE HIP PHOTO; ZACH MAHONE

Best Outdoor or Rooftop Venue

RED ROCKS PARK AND AMPHITHEATRE redrocksonline.com | 303.697.6047

COM+E: What sets your venue apart?  Denver Arts & Venues: Nothing says ‘Colorado’ like the setting of Red Rocks Amphitheatre, combined with the fact that you receive impeccable service, food and beverage all paired with unparalleled views and surroundings; it truly makes a private event at Red Rocks stand apart.

BY THE NUMBERS

Date Opened: June 15, 1941

Amphitheatre Seating Capacity: 9,525

Elevation: 6,450 ft.

Red Rocks Mountain Park: 738 acres

National Historic Landmark: 2015

Runners-up: Denver Botanic Gardens; Spruce Mountain Ranch

BEST NEW VENUE (OPENED BETWEEN OCT. 1, 2018 – SEPT. 30, 2019)

MISSION BALLROOM missionballroom.com | 720.931.8713

AEG Presents owns and manages several major concert venues in Colorado that are available to host special events, including Mission Ballroom, 1STBANK Center, Fiddler’s Green, and the Ogden, Gothic and Bluebird theaters. Launching in August 2019, Mission Ballroom is the first new major indoor concert venue to open in Denver in many years. “In the first five months, we have hosted numerous convention parties, fundraising events, film festivals and celebrations. We are a world leader in concert and entertainment production and venue management, bringing the best capabilities and unique venue locations to provide the most memorable event experience.”

Runners-up: Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center; Ironworks

Best On-Mountain Venue

BEANO’S CABIN

beavercreek.com | 970.754.3463

Beano’s Cabin is a feast for the senses. With an open lawn and wraparound deck at the foot of Grouse Mountain, it is a ballroom under the stars. Inside, vaulted ceilings and antler chandeliers add to the warmth of a stone hearth and serve as a backdrop for seated meals that can include up to 150 guests. In winter, Beano’s is accessible only by an open-air sleigh pulled by a snowcat, which is half the fun! In the summer, it’s via horseback, wagon ride or shuttle.

The location of the legendary restaurant was once a lettuce patch and Frank Bienkowski (a.k.a. Beano) was an original settler and longtime farmer. Beano’s can be reserved for group reservations or a full buyout.

Runners-up: The 10th-Vail Mountain; TenMile Station

BEST RENOVATION PROJECT AT HOTEL OR EVENT VENUE (COMPLETED BETWEEN

OCT. 1, 2018 – SEPT. 30, 2019)

VAIL MARRIOTT MOUNTAIN RESORT

marriott.com | 970.476.4444

A $25 million makeover of Vail Marriott Mountain Resort’s guest rooms and meeting/event spaces infused modern amenities and Vail sophistication into the landmark property. The Grand Ballroom, Grand Foyer and Colorado Ballroom are sporting new and refreshed looks, and a new outdoor veranda has a bar, fire features and private settees for après everything geared toward groups. VIPs will enjoy some R&R on the rooftop deck of the three-bedroom penthouse suite, complete with a putting tee, indoor/outdoor hot tub and grilling space.

Runners-up: Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse; Hotel Jerome

Best Rental Service

EVENT RENTS

eventrents.com | 303.972.0975

Event Rents offers a vast array of rental offerings including tents, dance floors, staging, tables, chairs, tableware, essential and fine specialty linens, and a large range of kitchen equipment. “The Event Rents culture adheres to a foundation of pride, perfection and persistence with a passionate dedication to service excellence by a team of rental professionals. Stemming from our philosophy, we are able to facilitate the largest of events.”

What’s New:

» In addition to Denver and Phoenix locations, Event Rents announced its newest Colorado location, Event Rents Vail/Aspen, in 2019 to serve Colorado’s mountain clients.

» “We have welcomed fresh additions to our family, forming a full team devoted to the wedding industry. Nicole Shapiro and Cody Thompson joined the outside sales team as wedding specialists, and Ryan Hoerdemann joined the internal account manager team.”

Runners-up: Butler Rents, Colorado Party Rentals

BEST TRANSPORTATION

PROVIDER

OR VALET SERVICE

JAY’S VALET PARKING jaysvalet.com | 303.777.5297

Services: Premier valet parking, parking lot management, luxury transportation, pedicab services and coat check

Standout Moment in 2019: “Jay’s Valet was honored to earn a partnership with the Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, Pepsi Center and Dick’s Sporting Goods Park accounts. These prestigious accounts are something we are very proud of, and we look forward to a lasting partnership for many years to come.”

Quotable: “After 35 years of serving people our motto hasn’t changed: Take care of each guest, one car at a time. We are honored to be trusted with providing service to well over a million cars a year.” – Jay Mills, CEO/Owner

Runners-up: Epic Mountain Express; Hermes Worldwide

(OPPOSITE) JAMES X SCHULZE; FROM THE HIP PHOTO

BEST SPECIALTY RENTALS

ECLECTIC HIVE EVENT DESIGN COMPANY

eclectichive.com | 303.295.0519

COM+E: What sets your company apart?

EH: The Hive, as it is affectionately known, takes a distinctive approach to the design process, focusing on residential décor in an event environment. We share a desire, passion and focus centered on creating fresh, inspired event design while methodically creating intimate settings that encourage a personal connection.

What’s New: Hive Experiences that include unique hands-on team-building activities, gifting and outsidethe-box indulgence.

Quotable: “The Hive doesn’t feel like work, it feels like a lifestyle where I’m surrounded by people who push each other to reach new levels in creativity, in balance and in skill.” – Jillian Burnham, Designer

Runners-up: Chair Covers & Linens Denver; Fun Productions

Best Photographer/ Videographer

FROM THE HIP PHOTO fromthehipphoto.com | 720.390.5995

What’s New:

» From the Hip Photo is moving into a three-story space in the Stapleton neighborhood that will provide three times more room for expanded in-studio photography options, comfortable client meeting space and larger post-production rooms. The business has a six-person, full-time team that works with clients in both the social and corporate event spheres.

» Over the past year, social media management for venues and businesses and videography for corporate and commercial clients have been added to From the Hip Photo’s menu of services.

Quotable: “The most deeply gratifying part of what we do every day is being part of an incredible community of sincere, passionate event professionals. Over the past dozen years, we’ve gotten to know so many talented people who bring creativity and kindness to their craft. It’s a constant source of inspiration and pushes us to improve what we do each and every day.” – Nina de Zayas, Founder

Runners-up: All Digital Photo & Video; Jensen Sutta Event Photography

TAKE NOTE OF THESE SEVEN PROS WHO ARE MAKING THEIR MARK IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY.

Colorado Meetings + Events is proud to introduce our 2020 Hall of Fame inductees, who are among the state’s most creative, dedicated and passionate individuals. Our editorial advisory board, composed of 15 industry representatives from around the state, nominated and selected this year’s inductees for their commitment and unique contributions. Now in its 13th year, the Hall of Fame has 90 distinguished members.

By Beth Buehler

PHOTOGRAPHS

Tate Carlson

FURNITURE

Wallflower Rentals & Décor

VENUE

Moss Denver

Read more about Moss on page 23

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1990, and a friend encouraged her to consider the hotel industry

Hired as coordinator of the sales team and promoted to sales manager by Swissôtel Boston

Moved onto national sales manager position at Loews Anatole Hotel in Texas

In 1995, moved to Denver as director of sales and marketing for Loews Denver Hotel

Joined Vail Resorts and RockResorts at their headquarters in 2005 and sells the portfolio of luxury resorts and destinations under the Vail Resorts umbrella

Active member of industry associations and Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce and recently began two-year term as president of Destination Colorado

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“Every day is different and filled with possibility. This industry blends the opportunity to build relationships, promote face-to-face experiences, elevate education, create and design settings and curriculums, and grow both personally and within a team dynamic.” She adds, “Meetings and events encourage participants to have a growth mindset as most meetings have commonthread goals of creating synergy, innovative thinking and engagement.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“I hope that our industry continues to thrive and that we become better storytellers of why meetings are important. When people come together we change for the better. Perspectives are shared, ideas are sparked. We collaborate, we grow, we create the future. A better future.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

Collins emphasizes the importance of being kind and volunteering for projects. “Dabble in cross-functional areas to find out what you like and to connect the dots between departments. Look for gaps and find solutions. Raise your hand, get involved, seek mentors within and outside of our industry. Take on stretch roles and hobbies. Travel, learn, lead and enjoy the ride.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“Online word-of-mouth and experiential imagery are drawing customers to destinations around the world, and people want to be able to buy in two clicks 24-hours a day. Relationships remain relevant and important as customers like to connect with another human being, especially when making big conference investments for their company or association.”

Lifetime Achievement CMP, Associate Director of Global Group Sales Vail Resorts Meetings & Events

HelmsBriscoe

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Began working life as an EMT with Vail Valley Medical Center

Needing more family-friendly work hours, shifted to a hospitality-related area as director of a team that served owners at a vacation property in Avon

Assumed responsibilities for public relations and event planning in hospitality and tourism

Ran her own meetings and events business successfully for several years

Accepted a position with HelmsBriscoe in Denver more than 12 years ago

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“For me, working in a field of business in which success depends on building productive human relationships is a natural fit. … Understanding what clients really want to accomplish is a challenge I have always relished. Beyond that essential discovery process, it’s turning objectives into actionable elements of a successful program and ultimately seeing a client happy.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“Personally, it’s continuing to see the mixture of excitement, delight and relief on the face of a client whose event just went off with stellar success. For the industry as a whole, I am hugely confident that, within an environment of increasing virtualization of communication and relationships, the place of humans gathering together can only become more important.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

First, Rupert recommends considering deep down why you want to be in this business. “If it’s not primarily because of its human dimension, this might not be the best sector for you to spend your energies on.” She also suggests learning from experienced and successful practitioners, maintaining humility, working hard, getting involved and volunteering. Rupert emphasizes, “Mentors will step forward to help those that show themselves worthy of the advice and guidance.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“Technology has extended our ability to reach clients wherever they’re located and to communicate through more time-efficient channels. But after a decade of social media frenzy, I think many practitioners are recognizing that however convenient some of the new tools have proven to be, we must never lose sight of being an industry focused on people first. When it comes to uncovering clients’ objectives and to building confidence and trust, there’s no substitute for people meeting together in the same physical space and communicating one to another.”

Best Meeting Professional Director, Global Accounts

RACHEL MASSMAN

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

After graduating from University of Missouri-Columbia, started working at St. Louis Marriott West as a sales and catering admin, eventually becoming a sales manager there and at Millennium Hotel St. Louis

Upon moving to Colorado in 2012, worked in sales for Magnolia Denver and Courtyard by Marriott Denver Cherry Creek

Transitioned into the planner side in 2014, first as membership and events manager for Colorado Safety Association and now with much larger events at Housing Colorado in Denver

Currently involved with CSAE on the membership committee

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“Hands down it’s the relationships. It’s great to bond with meeting professionals, suppliers and anyone else involved in our crazy industry over shared stories of success and opportunities for improvement. I wouldn’t be the meeting professional I am today without support from this tight-knit community.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“I am so excited that my meeting and events future is wide open. I would love to broaden my horizons and plan for a national organization with events all over the United States. I also would like to pass my knowledge on to others new to the industry and give back like those who came before me did.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

Massman offers a simple equation:

Networking = Success. “I wouldn’t be the planner I am today without the network I have made along the way. If you are interested at all in meeting planning or events, I would recommend getting involved with an industry association and join a committee or find some way to volunteer your time. The more connections you have the better!”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“The use of social media and event-specific apps has really changed the way we communicate with attendees. It has allowed us to present information in real time, streamline communication and eliminate waste. In 2020, we are eliminating a printed directory for the first time in the 32-year history of our conference thanks to the use of our conference app.”

Up-and-Coming Meeting Professional Conference & Event Manager Housing Colorado

CONNOLLY

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

After graduating from St. Mary’s University in London, worked at the Bath and Racquets Club in London and managed a health club in Beverly Hills

Moved to Colorado and found himself in marketing and PR for children’s radio in 1993

Radio opened the door to KWGN-TV WB2 and orchestrating events

Entered the nonprofit world and worked at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and American Heart Association

Returned to radio through a business development job for CBS Radio and later established a small agency, GPS Advertising

Joined National Jewish Health in 2012 and now orchestrates the organization’s fundraising events around the country

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“Events come in all different shapes and sizes, and each one presents new challenges. I love the camaraderie aspect of my job working with our special events team, volunteers and vendors. It takes a village, and I am enormously grateful to be working alongside such talented people.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“Regarding events at National Jewish Health, we want to continue evolving. We have an amazing special events team and some very exciting new ideas in the works, which we are eager to roll out in the future. … The more people we can reach and tell our story through events, the better.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

“You are only good as your next event,” Connolly says. “Listen intently to a client’s wants and needs and don’t be frightened to ask lots of questions. Your client’s senses are in play and fully engaged from the moment they arrive at your event to the moment they exit, so make the experience count. As you plan, walk through your event and ask yourself, what do I see, hear, feel, taste and touch?”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“Mobile ticketing and registration is establishing a higher touch point with event attendees and makes for closer communication pre- and post-event, which creates potential marketing opportunities down the road.” He adds, “Companies are now able to track individual behavior toward entertainment, culinary decisions, beverage choices and other eventrelated activities. This is invaluable data to customize a marketing strategy to bring that customer back.”

Best Special Events Professional National Director of Special Events (Western Region) National Jewish Health

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

A first job in high school was working on the service support staff for a caterer

This job led to studying hospitality management at Colorado State University

After college, accepted a job at Inverness Hotel and Conference Center in Englewood and worked his way up from being a banquet server to catering and conference service manager

Joined the opening team for Halcyon in 2016 and over the past three years has been developing new meeting experiences for clients

Active with NACE Denver and has served as director of programming and on the membership committee

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“When I think about why I wanted to have a career in the hospitality industry, I gravitated toward the interpersonal relationships that I am able to build with colleagues and clients. I also love a challenge and there is never a dull moment, nor are two days ever the same. I am also passionate about travel and being in the hospitality industry affords me the opportunity to enjoy both sides of the work.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“I really enjoy the all-hands-on-deck environment of hotel transitions and openings. I would love to continue developing my skill set in these areas and to build on my experience supporting hotels in need of assistance.” He adds, “As my career progresses, I want to stay in the neighborhood of independent/boutique hotels.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

Porter recommends getting involved and staying curious. “This is a bustling industry with a lot of extroverts. If you want to learn more about something, all you have to do is offer to help a busy person and learn what they do. Much of my professional development to date has come from mentors in the industry being thought partners and advocates as I navigate challenges and celebrate wins.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“What we say at Halcyon is that we like to ‘blur the lines between work and play.’ On the meeting and events side, groups are looking to incorporate unique local, off-site elements into their programs and stay true to the culture of Colorado. … It is exciting that event planners and clients are creating a balance between traditional conferences and what the city they are in has to offer.”

BRAD PORTER

Up-and-Coming Special Events Professional Conference Services Manager Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Employed in the Vermont banking industry

Traveled extensively with Up With People and worked in the organization’s Broomfield, Colorado office in various roles

Joined Colorado’s hospitality industry in 2000 and has worked for Holiday Inn Downtown, Renaissance Denver Stapleton, Hotel Monaco and Cheyenne Mountain Resort

In between, served as an executive meetings manager and convention sales manager for VISIT DENVER from 2003 to 2006

After a short stint back to New England working for The Brunswick Hotel & Tavern, returned to Colorado in late 2017, joined the Visit Aurora sales team

Current committee organizer for MPIRMC’s Project Angel Heart

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“I love that each day and client is different and that our industry contributes so much toward our local economy. I cherish the lifetime relationships with both my clients and my supplier/industry peers that I am honored to call friends. What I learn from both my clients and supplier peers alike is invaluable to me!”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“I wish for our industry to continue to grow and prosper and that our community and politicians continue to support and see the impact and value. Personally, I want to continue to grow, learn, evolve and constantly be challenged. I also want to be there as a mentor for our future youth entering this amazing industry.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

“If you want pearls, you must be willing to get a little sand in your clam. Get involved early on and foster your connections and relationships. Go the extra mile in your role and become a ‘yes’ person. Keep your integrity in check, listen, be sincere and authentic, and find your passion. Mentor as you have been mentored.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“Technology is indeed our friend, but I also see the potential of it taking the personal element of collaboration, relationships and content away. We have the opportunity and responsibility of finding this balance. Our travelers and attendees are also much savvier and expect more. The wowfactor bar continues to be challenged and is only expected to rise.”

BRIAN-DOUGLAS STANWOOD

Best Supplier Assistant Director of Sales Visit Aurora

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Started out at The Ritz-Carlton, Denver as a server and advanced into the sales and marketing office years later as a business development coordinator and then sales coordinator for Elway’s Downtown

After coordinating private dining events, moved into a sales manager role at Big Red F Restaurant Group and worked closely with restaurants to implement new processes and create a seamless operating system

Launched Wallflower Rentals & Décor, a small family owned and operated company based in Louisville, Colorado, two years ago from a home garage and primarily worked for a few venues

Grew clientele and now has employees assisting with the day-to-day operations and a large warehouse to help hold expanding rental inventory that includes glassware, farm tables and bulk chairs

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“Being a part of the Colorado meetings and events industry offers the opportunity to work with unique local vendors and create really special collaborations. We love to use every interaction to connect with our clients and bring their vision to life while adding our special finishing touches.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“Initially, Wallflower Rentals & Décor began with a focus on weddings but as we continue to grow and branch out into the  corporate market, we look forward to planning and executing large-scale events around the state. Our new inventory and warehouse space has allowed us to take on a variety of larger events, which has been so much fun!”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

“Be you, authentically you. Don’t look at competition as a threat and embrace the differences in how you can be the best for your client. And if you aren’t the best fit, don’t be afraid to share the love with your industry friends … there is enough to go around!”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“Clients have come to expect more and standards have risen. We have to strive to provide a one-of-a-kind experience with outstanding venues. But no matter what changes, topnotch customer service remains the priority.”

Up-and-Coming Supplier Owner

Wallflower Rentals & Décor

CHIC + BOUTIQUE + UNIQUE + HISTORIC VENUES

Asterisk - Blue Eyes Consulting

At the asterisk-shaped intersection of Broadway, Park Avenue, and Arapahoe sits Denver’s newest event venue. This historic building has been thoroughly modernized to deliver a stunning, blank canvas for your next event. The ground floor greets you with an expansive main hall that captures beaming natural light through its south-facing bank of windows and skylights. The rooftop patio provides a unique, urban setting for distinct, smaller events, happy hours, and after-parties. The main hall adapts well to welcome over 1,000 for reception and 600 for seated dining events.

Asterisk is ideal for all types of events from corporate to nonprofit fundraisers, social celebrations to school events, conventions parties, launches, weddings

and much more! Denver’s newest events venue is the perfect combination of old, new, and you.

The venue is a polished blank canvas for all with a state-of-the-art audio and video production inventory that is hard to beat. The key element of this system is you can wash the room in your select color, drop the four screens for full production and more in-house.

C Lazy U Ranch

C Lazy U Ranch has been known as Colorado’s Premier Guest Ranch since 1919. Because of this, the ranch prides itself on creating fresh and exciting offerings that combine innovation while preserving over 100 years of ranching history. C Lazy U Ranch is a one-of-akind boutique ranching destination that

focuses on five-star service and individually curated guest experiences.

The ranch recently constructed a new west wing of the main lodge, which includes a state-of-the-art meeting room facility complimented by an award-winning wine room with private dining. To enhance these unique spaces the ranch recently hired a new executive chef, Cory Untch, who joins C Lazy U with an impressive resume that includes The Little Nell in Aspen, multiple RitzCarltons and one of Ted Turner’s private guest ranches. Untch brings a chic new flair to western dining by combining natural, locally sourced ingredients with traditional and abstract ranch fair. He represents the perfect mix of preserving countless years of ranching history while combining cutting edge culinary

techniques and trends.

C Lazy U parallels its dining program with a spectacular wine selection consisting of over 3,500 bottles and 600 selections. This vast selection of wine is managed by Level II Sommelier Elise Blann and she embodies the spirit necessary to consistently earn C Lazy U Ranch a Wine Spectator award for the past four years running.

At C Lazy U Ranch, the culture and philosophy is bound by creating a strong team that honors the history and culture of this historic 100-year-old property. It is the team that compliments the unique offerings found throughout the 8,500 acres and provides the amazing service C Lazy U Ranch is truly known for. This is what keeps guests coming back year after year and has propelled C Lazy U

to earn multiple awards, including USA Today’s No. 1 Destination Resort in the U.S. and Conde Nast Traveler’s No. 2 Resort in the West and No. 3 Resort in the US.

The Cable Center

If you’re looking for a completely unique and perfectly elegant venue, look no further than The Cable Center. The Cable Center offers a high-tech, high impact setting that makes weddings, special events and corporate meetings unforgettable.

The architecture is stunning inside and out, with floor-to-ceiling windows that capture beautiful, natural light. As you walk into the Daniels Great Hall, you’ll be greeted by its signature video tower surrounded by the iconic globeinspired terrazzo floor.

The Cable Center offers a variety of high-tech, functional spaces, along with unparalleled amenities and service. The Daniels Great Hall boasts flexible table and seating setup options—theaterstyle, formal table rounds or cocktail reception. The video tower serves as an impressive digital backdrop to any stage set, enhancing speeches and pre -

PHOTO COURTESY OF: MOLLY JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY; TYLER JONES; SCOTT DRESSEL-MARTIN.

The Cable Center

C Lazy U Ranch

sentations. The flexible, multi-purpose meeting spaces and 200-seat theater make meeting planning and execution a breeze.

The Cable Center is adjacent to the University of Denver campus, directly across from a light rail station and just minutes away from downtown and Cherry Creek hotels.

From the moment you walk through the doors until the completion of your event, the professional staff of experts will be with you every step of the way. The Cable Center understands that every event is unique, so they are there to give you the attention, support and peace of mind you deserve. They will help you select the right spaces, arrange details with selected vendors, and handle all venue preparations for your guests’ enjoyment.

Denver Botanic Gardens

Denver Botanic Gardens and its sister location, Chatfield Farms, are two historic venues with anything-but-ordinary rental sites.

Located minutes from downtown, Denver Botanic Gardens features an ever-changing landscape of rare, exotic

Denver Botanic Gardens

and native plants; world-class art exhibits; mid-century modern architecture and the iconic Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory. Choose from outdoor or indoor sites for events yearround. Flexible spaces like the West Terrace, a tented space with twinkle lights that overlooks Monet Pool, can be combined with the Renaissanceinspired Orangery for an indoor/outdoor option.

From May through September of each year, a blockbuster sculpture exhibition creates built-in entertainment. This year features "Ursula von Rydingsvard: The Contour of Feeling" in the new Freyer – Newman Center. This exciting new space also features an auditorium for lectures, multiple gallery spaces and an airy atrium.

Just off the highway, there’s a slice of countryside that is a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Chatfield Farms is a historical homestead and working farm nestled against the foothills of the Rockies. On this sprawling nature preserve, soaring cottonwoods brush the sky, paths cut through wooded areas and Deer Creek

meanders under footbridges. The Lavender Garden features more than 2,000 lavender plants and an impressive iris garden includes 400 rare and heirloom varieties.

Two of the more popular sites are Green Farm Barn—with exposed wood and a terrace strung with bistro lights—and Deer Creek Stables, which features canvas sides that can be raised or lowered, creating an indoor/ outdoor event space.

At each location, award-winning caterers are available to help make your event unique and special. Experience the beauty of nature as a setting.

Elitch Gardens

Located in the heart of Denver, Elitch Gardens is Colorado’s only world-class combination theme and water park. A huge, summer-long party is about to hit Denver as Elitch Gardens honors its history as one of the oldest consecutive-operating amusement parks in the United States in 2020 when it turns 130 years old. The park will honor its past while embracing the future, providing

quality family fun that has entertained Colorado for generations. There’s something for everyone, with 54 rides and attractions, including 14 pint-sized adventures, thrilling roller coasters and an entire water park. This year, there’s more entertainment than ever before with exciting new family shows, Dive-In Movies, a free summer concert series and three stunning fireworks extravaganzas that will light up the Denver skyline, plus Fright Fest in October! And don’t miss the breathtaking views of Denver atop the 20-story Observation Tower or while plummeting 200 feet on the Tower of Doom. Elitch Gardens is open April 18 through Nov. 1. Visit ElitchGardens.com for more information and to purchase discount tickets.

Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo

Discover New Mexico’s largest entertainment hotel—vibrant, spectacular and locally inspired—at Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder.

Located on the sovereign land of the Pueblo of Pojoaque, Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder offers one of Santa Fe's most unique golf, spa and gaming

PHOTO COURTESY OF: GARRETT W. ELLWOOD; HILTON SANTA FE BUFFALO.

Elitch Gardens

Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo

hotel experiences. Rich with amenities for all interests, the hotel offers 27 holes of golf at Towa Golf Club, Pojoaqueinfluenced spa services at the Wo’P’in Spa, merging indigenously influenced treatments, aromatherapy,and expertly trained therapists to provide a uniquely restorative experience. With 395 guest rooms and 72,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, the hotel is the largest of its kind in Northern New Mexico.

Featuring traditional Pueblo architecture, the AAA Four Diamond hotel is home to a world-renowned Native American art collection valued at over $2.5 million representing every Native American tribe within New Mexico. Over 300 pieces of unique art including pottery, paintings, sculptures, mosaics, weavings, design elements and landscape features are highlighted throughout the hotel. Guests are invited to take a complimentary tour of the hotel’s curated art collection by downloading the Geotourist app and following the user-friendly directions available at the concierge’s desk. Based on exact location, users are able to access a comprehensive auto-play guided audio tour and learn all about the remarkable displayed art.

The reflective artistry of Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder has drawn inspiration from within Po'suwae'geh Owingeh traditions as well as the surrounding pueblos. The contemporary and customary architectural features throughout the hotel evolved from past structures dating back thousands of years. Every room offers hand-designed furnishings and work by local and internationally renowned Native American artists. Visitors should take the opportunity to explore the over 400 one-of-akind pieces throughout the gallery-like surroundings.

Hotel Colorado

According to the history books, America’s most charming and huggable children’s toy, the teddy bear, was invented at the Hotel Colorado.

Families have their stories, the ones that get passed down through the generations, tales told and retold down through the ages. The same is true for venerable historic hotels. At 127 years old, the Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs is rife with stories—some are mysteries, others romances, there are ghost stories and more than a few rowdy westerns. However, the most beloved and enduring one begins with the story of an unsuccessful hunt.

While he would later become the 26th president, in 1901 when he stayed at the Hotel Colorado, Theodore Roosevelt was the vice president of the United States. The accommodations suited him so well that he returned annually dubbing it the “Western Whitehouse.” In addition to attending to duties of governance, the statesman was also an avid sportsman who enjoyed

Hotel Colorado

hunting bear and mountain lion. After one long day in the saddle, he returned to the hotel tired, emptyhanded and disappointed.

The Hotel Colorado’s maids took notice and to raise the VP’s spirits presented him with a miniature bear made of pieced together fabric scraps. Mr. Roosevelt’s daughter Alice was delighted by the gift and showed her fondness for the stuffed animal by naming it “Teddy.” After receiving permission from Roosevelt, Ideal Novelty and Toy began producing the toy bears in 1903. The rest, as they say, is history.

The Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs—a legendary venue with a storied past.

Meeting and event amenities include spacious rooms for up to 250 people, comfortable accommodations, professional catering services and a staff dedicated to helping you tell your story with unprecedented style.

GET CONNECTED

ASTERISK asteriskdenver.com

720.443.4411

C LAZY U RANCH clazyu.com

970.887.3344

THE CABLE CENTER cablecenterevents.org

720.502.7500

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS botanicgardens.org

720.865.3551 | 720.865.4339

ELITCH GARDENS elitchgardens.com

303.572.4531

HILTON SANTA FE BUFFALO hiltonbuffalothunder.com

505.455.5555

HOTEL COLORADO

hotelcolorado.com

970.945.6511

Industry Update

51%predict plant-based meat alternatives will solidify their mainstream status in 2020 (no longer just a cult following), and we’ll see more plant-based takes on traditional meat dishes.

FOODIE TIME

KIMPTON’S 2020 CULINARY & COCKTAILS

TREND FORECAST IDENTIFIES THE F&B TRENDS TO WATCH THIS YEAR.

Research courtesy of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

One-hundred-thirty chefs, sommeliers, general managers and bartenders from 75-plus Kimpton restaurants and bars reveal the dishes, flavors, ingredients and philosophies that will be explored in 2020. Below are a handful of the findings; read the full report at kimptonhotels.com/culinary-trends.

31% ger enough to have just one or two gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan and keto options on the menu.

Levantine cuisine, including Israeli, Turkish and Lebanese, is predicted as the most influential style for menus in 2020, according to nearly 40% of chefs surveyed. S’chug, a Mediterranean hot sauce, and muhammara, a red pepper and walnut spread found in Turkish and Levantine dishes, topped the list for spreads and sauces in this year’s forecast.

Ingredients with sour flavor profiles like rhubarb, tamarind and vinegar will grow in popularity, with nearly 23% of chefs selecting sour as their favorite experimental flavor. Chefs also noted that funky flavors will make their way into breakfast staples, including licorice and salty syrups and savory oatmeal made with bone broth.

Unusual seeds like lotus, basil and water lily are predicted as one of the trendiest ingredients according to 31% of chefs surveyed.

Schmaltz, or rendered chicken or goose fat, also will be trending in 2020, according to a quarter of Kimpton chefs. Keep an eye out for schmaltz croutons accompanying roasted chicken dishes and schmaltz as the new olive oil for dipping baked bread.

30% of chefs predicted vegetable tartare will be infiltrating restaurant menus in the New Year.

TAMARIND RHUBARB

Liquor

using locally sourced, often unexpected ingredients will be one of the top dessert trends, according to 1 in 5 chefs.

Savory items will be featured more prominently in desserts— expect to see unique savory-meets-sweet pairings like black pepper or sesame ice cream and truffle macarons.

Veganism will influence dessert menus as well, as 47% of respondents highlighted vegan desserts as the strongest sweettooth trend for 2020. Try it in lemon tarts made with cashews, coconut and lemon zest or vegan chocolate peanut butter cheesecake.

Aromatic (inedible) garnishes were cited as one of the up-and-coming trends bartenders are most excited to experiment with in 2020. Examples include spice sachets with cloves and allspice, burning sticks of wood or even absorbent, scented squares of paper clipped to glassware.

Influences from Mediterranean regions will shape bar menus according to 46% of respondents. We’ll see light, refreshing, often low-alcohol spritzes all over bar menus in 2020. These lower sugar, crisper cocktails are the next evolution of the Spanish gin and tonic.

More than a quarter of bartenders are most excited about sour beers in the year ahead, followed by hazy or juicy IPAs and high alcohol kombuchas as a beer alternative.

Next year’s biggest wine trend will be the emergence of more natural wines, or wines farmed organically without adding or removing anything in the cellar. Orange wines and pét-nat sparkling wines are also becoming more popular with wine aficionados.

Expect to see the rise of alternativegrain spirits like baiju, shōchū and soju, spirits that originated in China, Japan and Korea, respectively.

Whisky highballs a trend largely driven by the popularity of lighter Japanese whiskies—are predicted to gain a cult following, with spiked seltzers and the return of the paloma close behind. See the recipe on page 18.

Mezcal will continue to dominate in 2020, with more than a third of respondents choosing it as the predicted spirit of choice next year. Bartenders are and using it to reimagine traditional cocktails.

NONALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

Many experts are predicting coffee spritzes as the hot (cold) drink of 2020. The other top coffee trends for 2020 include nitro coffee on tap, cold brew alternatives and CBD coffee.

Botanical-infused sparkling drinks are cited as the non-alcoholic trend bartenders will most likely experiment with, followed up by alcohol-free spirits and upleveled teas with exotic fruit flavors like guanabana, lulo and passion fruit.

Some 42% of bartenders surveyed are excited to embrace the noalcohol culture as part of their overall bar experience in the year ahead.

GROWN-UP SUNDAE, SAVORY DESSERT ITEMS

SPICE SACHETS IN COCKTAILS

HAZY IPA WHISKY HIGHBALL COFFEE SPRITZ

FOOD & BEVERAGE »

Milkshake Lab is Latest Punch Bowl Social Creation

Punch Bowl Social Stapleton has introduced a new Milkshake Lab where guests can order over-the-top milkshake creations from their tables, the bars or the multiple activities throughout Punch Bowl Social, including bowling lanes, darts and private karaoke rooms. Vintage View Finders are available for guests to peruse the Milkshake Lab menu that features two categories: Shakes for solo enjoyment and Party Time for large sharable shakes served with multiple straws. The original Punch Bowl Social Broadway location is launching a Milkshake Lab in 2020. punchbowlsocial.com

Just to get your mouth watering …

Grasshopper Shake: Chocolate milkshake with mint syrup, brownie bites, Andes Mint crumbles and Grasshopper cookies

Big Debbie Shake: Vanilla milkshake with cream filling, cinnamon streusel, granola rim, and an Oatmeal Cream Pie and Ho-Ho garnish

Slumber Party Time: Strawberry milkshake with Reese’s Pieces rim, Cotton Candy Fizzes, Gummy Sharks, Pop Rocks, Twinkie and fun stuff

Party Time Like It’s Ur Birthday: Cupcakeflavored milkshake with a Cupcake Bite rim, real cupcakes, whipped cream, Nerds, mini M&Ms, and a surprise

Punch Bowl Social Stapleton

Slumber Party Time

AWARDS & ANNIVERSARIES »

Toro Latin Kitchen & Lounge to Open in Cherry Creek

Richard Sandoval Hospitality, led by chef Richard Sandoval, is teaming up with DiamondRock Hospitality to open the newest location of his Pan Latin and Asian fusion concept, Toro Latin Kitchen & Lounge, at JW Marriott Denver Cherry Creek this spring. Toro is a play on words, as it translates to “tuna” in Japanese and “bull” in Spanish.

The restaurant’s menu celebrates the vibrant flavors and dining culture of Central and South America, artfully blending Pan-Latin and Asian flavors into creative, shareable small plates. Toro Latin Bar & Kitchen Cherry Creek will feature menu items unique to the location, including a ceviche bar, and the beverage program is Latindriven with a focus on rums, cachaças, tequilas, mezcals and pisco and Latin beers and wines. Local brews and spirits also will be featured. Look for cocktails that are crafted with fresh fruits and housemade infusions that are Latin twists on classics.  marriott.com; richardsandoval.com

DESTINATION COLORADO PRESENTS PEAK PERFORMER AWARDS

At its annual meeting on Dec. 5 at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Destination Colorado announced its Peak Performer of the Year award winners for 2019. Lindsey Rohrbaugh, sales and conference services manager at Visit Fort Collins, was recognized as Individual of the Year, and Realize Colorado received Member of the Year. Realize Colorado is a destination management company owned and operated by Deana Mitchell, CMP, DMCP, CCSE.

Peak Performer of the Year awards are given to members in recognition of their leadership and commitment to promoting the meeting and group industry on behalf of the entire state of Colorado.

Hats Off to 5 Star Talent and Entertainment

Not only is Denver-based 5 Star Talent and Entertainment celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2020, Owner/President Terri Fisher was presented a 2019 Mile High Energy Award from VISIT DENVER late last year. Congratulations!

SUPPLIERS »

Image Audiovisuals Launches e-Attend

Denver-based Image Audiovisuals has introduced e-Attend, a new recording platform facilitating conference webcast delivery, marketing and e-commerce solutions. The platform captures full-motion, high-definition video and audio from every presentation and is delivered to subscribers through a proprietary cloud-based platform, typically within 24 hours of the conference. An added benefit is that e-Attend integrates with existing conference apps and can provide access links to continuing education, posters and abstracts. imageav.com

From left to right, Ellen Collins, Janie McCullough, Lindsey Rohrbaugh and Kathy Reak.

FOOD & BEVERAGE »

LIBERATI DELIVERS AUTHENTIC TASTE OF ITALY

Spanning half a city block and occupying a former printer’s building, LIBERATI Restaurant & Brewery in Denver’s Curtis Park features a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a 2,300-square-foot, Tuscan-inspired patio. LIBERATI can host gatherings of various sizes in a variety of spaces or utilize the entire venue to host hundreds of guests.

Born and raised in Rome, Italy, and founder of one of the first great craft beer multi-taps in Italy, Brasserie 4:20, Alex Liberati wanted to bring the best of his homeland to a new destination. After a lengthy search process he decided to plant his roots in Denver and opened LIBERATI in 2018. Executive chef Marta Biasotti, bread specialist Federica Ansani, and right-hand man Francesco Iacovino joined Liberati in Colorado, and together they have created an authentic taste of Italy in Denver. Plus, LIBERATI is the only brewery in the world solely dedicated to Oenobeers, which are unique beer/wine hybrids.

HOTELS & RESORTS »

226-room Hyatt Place Opens Near Denver Airport

Hyatt Place Peña Station/Denver Airport opened its doors at 6110 N. Panasonic Way in November and features localized elements like a Colorado-centric art program and a resident golden retriever puppy named Denver greeting guests at check-in. Other hotel highlights include 226 guest rooms, top-floor suites with balconies and mountain views, 4,000 square feet of meeting and event space, a restaurant, a bar with indoor and outdoor seating, and a full-service Starbucks. Guests also can utilize the fitness center, indoor pool and an entertainment area with games and a library with digital options for borrowing books. The hotel is a project of two Colorado-based companies: Sage Hospitality and McWHINNEY. hyatt.com

Hotel Perenne Announced for Denver’s LoHi

Denver’s Lower Highlands (LoHi) neighborhood will have its first-ever boutique hotel, Hotel Perenne, by summer 2021. The 70-room hotel, complete with an upscale restaurant and bar, is anticipated to break ground this summer. Hotel Perenne’s architecture is geared toward providing a haven of tranquility and will be filled with modern touches and décor complemented by living objects. Denver-based Central Street Capital, a family-owned private investment company that has been instrumental in LoHi’s ongoing revitalization, is spearheading the project and working closely with IMPRINT Hospitality as the management company.

Grand Junction to Welcome First Luxury Hotel

Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, has announced 20 new launches across the globe in 2020. Included in the mix is Hotel Maverick in Grand Junction, just steps from Colorado

Mesa University and set to launch in April 2020. Hotel Maverick is the first upscale lodging property in Grand Junction and features 60 guest rooms, two restaurants and a bar. Students will be actively involved as the university plans to utilize the property as a hospitality teaching facility. preferredhotels.com

Hotel Perenne

Hyatt Place Peña Station and resident puppy, Denver

ASSOCIATIONS »

Chapter Leaders Present State of NACE

The National Association of Catering & Events Denver Chapter held a State of NACE gathering in November. The leadership team shared where the group has been, where it’s going, and what the next bright ideas are for 2020 and beyond. Once the business part was wrapped up, host Fun Productions opened the doors to a variety of games and activities for a healthy dash of fun.

HSMAI Southern Colorado Celebrates Holidays

The Southern Colorado Chapter of Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International

(HSMAI) held a holiday party at the Colorado Springs Marriott on Dec. 18. One of the highlights was guest speaker Ruben Gonzalez and his entertaining and motivational presentation “Becoming Unstoppable: Success Secrets of a Four-time Olympian.”

New SITE Chapter for Mountain West Region

SITE (Society for Incentive Travel Excellence)

Mountain West launched on Jan. 16 at the Space Annex in Denver. The new chapter encompasses Arizona, Colorado, Nevada and Utah and represents buyers from direct corporate and third-party companies plus suppliers. Educational and motivational meetings will

be held throughout the year in the four states to promote important connections, global and local learning, and professional development. sitemountainwest.com

Greenwood Named to International ILEA Board

Denver-based Tera Greenwood, director of business development for Service Systems Associates, is serving on the International Live Events Association’s (ILEA) International Board of Governors for fiscal year 2019-20. The role of the board is to govern, establish policy and make strategic decisions about the future of the organization.

Clockwise from top left: HSMAI SoCo holiday party; State of NACE; and SITE Mountain West launch (bottom images)

GMs

Brian Leiker is the new general manager of Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center Hotel, bringing more than 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including 13 years of working for Stonebridge Companies most recently as GM of the dualbranded Homewood Suites and Hampton Inn & Suites Denver Downtown Convention Center. Renaissance Denver Downtown is the 10th property Leiker has managed.

Randie Mallory and Chris Tolbertson have been named GMs of Residence Inn by Marriott–Denver/Cherry Creek and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – Loveland/ Fort Collins by Stonebridge Companies. Approaching 10 years in the hospitality industry, Mallory began her career as a housekeeper before advancing to operations manager, assistant general manager and her first GM position in 2017. She most recently served as a brand specialist for Marriott’s western region. Since 2002, Tolbertson has worked at a broad range of Marriott brand hotels and most recently served as GM of TownePlace Suites in Littleton and Fairfield Inn & Suites Denver Tech Center/ South.

Tiffany Owen has been promoted by Sage Hospitality to serve as area general manager over Denver Union Station, The Crawford Hotel, The Oxford Hotel and The Oxford Club, Spa & Salon. She has been serving as GM of Denver Union Station and The Crawford since 2015. Under Owen’s leadership, The Crawford has been named Sage Hospitality’s Hotel of the Year two years in a row. She previously held management positions at The Oxford, Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown and The Residence Inn Denver Downtown.

Hunter Jones has been appointed GM for Highline in Vail. Jones brings extensive experience in property operations working directly with on-site teams and corporate revenue management throughout his eight years with Hospitality Ventures Management Group. Most recently, he served as GM of Courtyard Rockaway-Mt. Arlington and was acting GM for Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Mahwah at the same time. Over his 20 years in the hospitality industry, Jones’ experience spans from Atlanta and Albuquerque to Dallas and Branson.

Planners

Bree Warot has been hired as a program manager by Realize Colorado, a destination management company. Warot’s personality and passion for her work serve as the foundation of more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality and events industry in both the Denver and Boulder areas and Rocky Mountain regions. She began her career in the ski industry with Vail and Intrawest before planting roots in Denver more than 12 years ago to focus on event planning and design.

F & B

Matt Selby was recently appointed executive chef at Gourmet to Go in Englewood, where he manages a team of 25 epicureans. Selby is a talented chef and leader, with experience as culinary director at Vesta Dipping Grill, Steuben’s, Ace Eat Serve, Central Bistro, Punch Bowl Social and Etai’s Bakery Cafe.

Sabina Fechisin is now catering services manager at History Colorado Center in Denver. She has culinary arts and food service management degrees from Johnson & Wales University and previously worked as a program manager for Fun Productions and Colorado Teambuilding Events. Fechisin

served as a past president of the International Live Events Association Denver Chapter.

Sales

Jennifer Winget was recently promoted to senior vice president of sales and Sidney Stoper was elevated to national director of hospitality sales by JSAV. Both have relocated from Denver to JSAV’s corporate office in Irving, Texas. In 2004, Winget joined the company’s Colorado location and served as vice president of sales and branch services. Perviously, she was employed in the Texas market by GES Exposition Services and Dallas INFOMART. Stoper was hired by JSAV in 2012 and before that worked for Magnolia Hotel Denver and The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa.

Tim Mattos has been selected as director of sales and marketing for Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa in Gateway. With more than two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Mattos previously held the roles of general manager and director of sales at Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Broomfield. He also has worked for The Village at Breckenridge Resort and Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center before returning to California where he held various positions for The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage and multiple Hyatt Regency locations in California and Maryland.

Kate Thompson is back in Denver as director of sales and marketing for Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center Hotel. With more than two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Thompson most recently was an area director of sales and marketing in Nashville, where she built and trained a new sales team at Hutton Hotel while also overseeing marketing and top-line revenue at Union Station Hotel. Prior to that, she was

director of sales and marketing at The Curtis in Denver from 2012 to 2015.

Kerstin Sommer-Raza has been hired to serve as area director of sales and marketing overseeing The Crawford Hotel and The Oxford Hotel in Denver. With more than 14 years of hospitality sales and marketing experience, she joins Sage Hospitality from Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center, where she served in the same role. Previously, Sommer-Raza led the sales teams at Atlanta Marriott Peachtree Corners, Doubletree by Hilton Atlanta Buckhead and Doubletree by Hilton Atlanta Roswell.

Lori Adis is now director of sales for Highline in Vail. A sales leader for more than 20 years in the ski industry, she most recently was director of sales and marketing at Winter Park Mountain Lodge. Adis’ previous positions also include serving as a regional market manager for BookingPal; director of sales and marketing at Tivoli Lodge Vail; and various sales manager positions with Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center, Ski.com and Intrawest.

Caleb Rice, Christina Luerson and Ashley Kloster have been promoted in various sales capacities by The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. Rice, now director of national accounts for incentive/insurance, joined the property in 2008 and won the 2019 Colorado Springs Business Journal’s Rising Star Award. Luerson’s degree in hospitality, tourism management, hotel operations from San Diego State University and work experiences at The Broadmoor set the stage for her new role as director of national sales, west region. Kloster was hired by The Broadmoor in 2016 and her work with The Dinex Group and DBGB

Kitchen and Bar, as well as within the food and beverage/conference team, prepared her for a new role as sales manager for executive meetings and golf.

Megan Pierce has been appointed director of group sales by The Curtis, a Doubletree by Hilton Property. A tenured industry professional, with more than a decade of hospitality leadership experience, Pierce brings corporate sales and catering expertise to the property, most recently serving as associate director of sales for Embassy Suites in Denver. Throughout her career at Embassy Suites, she held several management roles across catering services and group sales departments.

Other

Miriam Huntley brings a wealth of knowledge to her new position as director of spa at The Oxford Club, Spa and Salon in downtown Denver. Previously, Huntley was director of operations at Five Wellbeing Studio + Spa in Littleton and held spa leadership positions at The Lodge & Spa at Cordillera in Vail, Marriott Ross Bridge Resort in Alabama and Wintergreen Resort in Virginia. She spent more than six years with the Kohler Company, where she opened the first Five-Star Kohler Waters Spa Day Spa in Chicago.

Michael Cranor joins Stonebridge Companies’ corporate team as cluster revenue manager. In this capacity, he focuses on helping maximize revenue at Stonebridge’s growing Denver International Airport cluster. During his more than 11 years with the company, Cranor’s past roles have included property revenue manager, accounting manager and task force general manager; GM of Fairfield Inn & Suites in Highlands Ranch; and accounting manager of Courtyard by Marriott Cherry Creek.

PHOTO: (OPPOSITE) ANDREA WATSON

FIGHTING HUNGER WITH AMAZING CAN SCULPTURES

Denver-based nonprofit We Don’t Waste brought an innovative art exhibit and competition to Stanley Marketplace in Aurora that featured large-scale sculptures built from approximately 20,000 cans of food, since donated to local food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters. Through Canstruction Colorado: A Winter WonderCAN, eight teams comprised of employees from area architecture and construction firms had up to 12 hours to build a winter-themed sculpture inside Stanley Marketplace on Nov. 15.

Visitors to Stanley were encouraged to vote for their favorite installation by donating $1 per vote to We Don’t Waste via Venmo or the We Don’t Waste website. A panel of judges awarded prizes for Best Meal, Best Use of Labels, Structural Ingenuity and Most Cans. We Don’t Waste hosted a Canstruction Colorado awards party at The Hangar at Stanley on Jan. 30, and de-canstruction happened on Feb. 3. stanleymarketplace.com; wedontwaste.org

Colorado CANvention Center Blue Bear by Kephart

26th Annual MIC Serving Up Hope

The Serving Up Hope Luncheon, hosted by the Meetings Industry Council of Colorado on Nov. 14 at Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center raised more than $30,000 for the Food Bank of the Rockies Denver’s Table. A total of 789 industry professionals from around the state were registered and approximately 14,692 meals were donated day-of by attendees, resulting in an overall total of 138,000 meals. Awards for the most food donated per member were given to the Christian Meetings & Conventions Association and Colorado Society of Association Executives.

1. Chris Starkey. 2. Carol Lathrop and Laney Hall. 3. Earls Kitchen + Bar. 4. Aimee Palifroni, Patty Farmer, and Katherine Chavez and family, winner of the art contest for Serving Up Hope awards. 5. David Bondarchuck and Cody Galloway, with winning culinary team from NOMAD. 6. Dallas Marudas and Brittany Ryan. 7. Hip hop dancer Jonathan Jaramillo. 8. Punch Bowl Social. 9. Judges Paul Fisher, Todd Seymour, Steve Kinsley and Charlie Adams. 10. Gospel choir from Imprint Group.

11. Beautiful food art by Monarch Casino Resort & Spa.

Naughty or NACE: From Denver with Love

NACE Denver invited members and their guests to step into a secret-agent lifestyle and learn the true way to live the Bond life. At this year’s Naughty or NACE, hosted by the new Asterisk Denver on Dec. 10, there were secrets to dressing like a high-roller, mixing the perfect cocktail and utilizing today’s best technology for ultimate event performance.

12. Tony Cummins and Lauren Hines.

13. Natalie Sears, Rebekah Meehan, Rahea Miersch, Corrie Morley, Karen Tucker and Courtney King. 14. Tony Cummins. 15. Loretta Howe and Lauren Hines. 16. Cuisine by Biscuits & Berries Catering. 17. Natalie Sears, Adrienne Gardener and Resa Meagher. 18. A Bond-worthy place to lounge and network.

19. Martinis by Peak Beverage. 20. Bond Girl Evelyn Evermoore. 21. Angie Johnston, Karen Tucker and Joshua Riggs. 22. Christal Holguin, Aimee Palifroni and Whitney Meader.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT PHOTOS

To have your meeting or event photos featured here, contact the editor at beth.buehler@tigeroak.com.

The Sky’s the Limit

BY HANNAH CULLEN

Denver native Keisha Makonese’s passion for planning events dates way back. Her latest gig as director of sales and corporate events at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum began nine years ago.

In this role, Makonese helps oversee an average of 150 private events at Wings Over the Rockies each year, from making meetings for 20 people to annual dinners for 2,000 fun and interactive experiences. “I love seeing all of these events transform,” she says. “My role is to network, bring in new groups and destination management companies (DMCs), develop and bring in unique clients and manage the whole event scheme.”

Wings Over the Rockies is housed in an old airplane hangar built in 1938, located on what used to be Lowry Air Force Base in east Denver. With 55 different aircraft on-site and roughly 40,000 square feet of event space, the sky is truly the limit in terms of making a clients’ vision come to life. “Wings is unique as one of the largest venues in Denver and definitely the coolest,” Makonese says.

Clients vary from military and corporate to most notably the American Idol Denver auditions with Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. However, Wings Over the Rockies is more than just a venue, it is a nonprofit that relies on education, youth, community outreach and volunteers, too. “I’m meeting all kinds of people from around the world. I like coming to work, and not many people can say that,” she notes.

Before Wings Over the Rockies, Makonese held a similar position at The Wildlife Experience, an art gallery and natural history museum that hosted galas and other various functions, and coordinated weddings and corporate events for Denver Botanic Gardens. She says, “I went from flowers to animals to aerospace.”

Get Connected

Keisha Makonese shares how her career in the events industry has taken flight.

We believe in keynote speakers that would rather spark an idea than follow an agenda. Attendees who seek a balance between PowerPoint and play. Conventions that are anything but conventional. We don’t believe in “planners.”

We believe in visionaries.

Colorado Springs is a year-round meeting destination boasting mild temperatures, more than 300 days of endless blue skies and stunning natural scenery. Discover first-tier amenities, an array of properties and unique venues.

It’s Colorado Springs - Conventions that are anything but conventional.

Complimentary services - From personalized site visits to attendee items, VCOS offers award-winning guidance.

Climate - Mild year-round climate and sunshine create the perfect environment, even in off-season.

Fantastic accommodations - Over 14,500 city-wide rooms and 450,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.

Easy access - The convenient Colorado Springs Airport offers over 65 arrivals and departures daily.

One-stop - VCOS is a single source for all your event planning needs during the planning process.

Personalization - Enjoy hands-on service through each step of the selection and planning process.

Support System - Enlist assistance for services, activities and other event details when the time is right.

Kathy Reak Senior Director of Convention Sales Kathy@VisitCOS.com 719.685.7632