With 16 unique beach neighborhoods along 26 miles of sugar-white sand and turquoise water, South Walton is the ultimate event destination. Luxurious amenities meet small-town charm for getaways that feel like coming home, no ma er where you’re from. With convenient airport access and easy driving from Atlanta, Birmingham, and New Orleans, you’ll spend less time en route and more time in good company.
ROOMS WITH A VIEW
From resorts to boutique hotels, South Walton is home to unique architecture, breathtaking views and accommodations to suit any style.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is Northwest Florida’s largest beachfront resort! With over square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting and event space, Hilton Sandestin Beach can accommodate groups of every size.
HiltonBeachMeetings.com •
South Walton’s endless activities and breathtaking backdrops create opportunities for truly meaningful team building. Unique venues and accommodations blend with incredible dining and nightlife to personalize every experience. Start planning at MeetInSouthWalton.com.
One-Stop-Shop Convenience
BY BETH BUEHLER
Find helping hands and creative solutions under one roof at these one-stop shops for events
8 Meeting Notes
Take meetings from drab to fab with the help of these products, places, and inspiring ideas
12 Destination
Three Colorado ski towns impress with their beauty, heritage, and venues
Justin Clark shifts from selling a destination to creating functional art from wood
16
Colorado Convention Center’s new rooftop terrace in Denver
meetingsmags.com/colorado meetingsmags
Stay Tuned In
» I CONTINUE TO BE AMAZED by the number of Colorado happenings that are of interest to the meetings and events community. My email has been particularly full for this issue, signaling a healthy and thriving industry. Developers are showing confidence in building new hotels, properties are being renovated, restaurants are opening and being remodeled, and people are being promoted and accepting new positions. All of this makes me feel both relieved and grateful.
The amount of people-related news has been especially prolific. It was a treat to talk with Justin Clark, who has transitioned from leading the sales team at Visit Aurora to creating beautiful products and gifts from recycled and exotic woods with his company Black Rabbit Woodcraft in Centennial. Clark is an industry leader and served on the Colorado Meetings + Events editorial advisory board.
I also receive a wealth of information that captures the pulse of the industry. One report that recently caught my attention was the Global DMC Partners (GDP) “2024 Meetings & Events Pulse Survey” for quarter three. GDP is the largest global network of independent destination management companies and specialized event service providers. The survey polled 165 meeting professionals, the majority of whom are based in the U.S. and Canada (with 20% located in Europe).
Two of the survey’s insights involved the always challenging topic of budgeting. The first highlighted budget disparities worldwide, with only 27% of international planners reporting budget increases compared to 44% of U.S. and Canadian planners. The second was the unsurprising finding that rising expenses remain planners’ top struggle—higher costs have been ranked the No. 1 challenge for planners in GDP’s survey report since quarter four of 2022.
What does this increasing amount of industry information mean for you and me? The meeting and events world is never stagnant, so it is critical to stay informed. Attend conferences, educational meetings, and networking events. Subscribe to focused newsletters and publications (like this one) and join industry associations, which hand-deliver ways to connect and grow. The meeting and event news is all around—it’s up to you to stay current and pick up the latest tips for success.
BETH BUEHLER Editor bbuehler@greenspring.com
PHOTO Tammy Prusha
Editor Beth Buehler at Mountain Wedding Garden in Mount Crested Butte
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GROUP EDITOR KATELYN BLOOMQUIST
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EDITOR BETH BUEHLER
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ASSOCIATE EDITOR LINDEN M. BAYLISS
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Tara Ames, Spruce Mountain Events | Adam Douglas, Peak Beverage | Ally Fredeen, Stanley Marketplace | Kim HallBarry, Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel | Brady Johnson, C Lazy U Ranch | Chris Koch, Occasions Catering | Tori Rosenblatt, Bear Aesthetics | Todd Seymour, Wellshire Inn | Nicole Steed, Topeka LLC | Terri Taylor, Natera Inc. | Marsha Temple, Y-PEP
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ADVERTISING COORDINATORS SYDNEY KELL, ELLIANNA RADOVICH
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For groups of 10 up to 1,500 MEETINGS | RECEPTIONS | GALAS | AWARD CEREMONIES
Host your next event in the newly renovated Lanny & Sharon Martin Building, brand new Anna & John J. Sie Welcome Center, or iconic Hamilton Building. Enjoy world-class art, stunning architecture, and state-of-the-art event space in the heart of Denver.
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720-913-0148 eventinfo@denverartmuseum.org For more information, visit denverartmuseum.org/event-rental
9401 James Ave. S., Suite 152, Bloomington, MN 55431 Phone 612-371-5800 Fax 612-371-5801
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Hotel Spotlight: Populus
Denver’s latest hotel takes trees and sustainability to a new level. Populus, the country’s first carbon-positive hotel, opened in Denver in mid-October. The LEED Goldcertified property with aspen tree-inspired architecture has introduced a “One Night, One Tree” program in conjunction with the opening. In partnership with the National Forest Foundation, Populus is planting one tree for every night of each guest’s stay, with the goal of planting 20,000 trees in Colorado this year alone. The trees will be planted in the state’s Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, Gunnison, and White River national forests.
The program is part of the hotel’s overarching sustainability approach, intended to offset its operational carbon footprint through using 100% renewable electricity, turning all food waste into compost, and being part of regenerative agricultural partnerships. In addition, carbon emitted during the transportation, installation, and disposal of the hotel’s building materials was reduced through a combination of sustainable design and construction and offset by the planting of more than 70,000 trees in Gunnison County. Populus’ landscaping includes trees surrounding the hotel with a soil-aeration system mimicking a real forest, as well as custom-designed benches made from salvaged honey locust wood from trees felled during the renovation of Denver’s 16th Street Mall. To ensure ongoing tracking and transparency of all sustainability efforts, the Populus team has engaged Denverbased Lotus Engineering & Sustainability.
The hotel’s Executive Chef Ian Wortham is taking a nature-based approach to cooking at the two on-site restaurants: Pasque, the elevated, all-day dining spot on the ground floor, and Stellar Jay, the rooftop restaurant and bar featuring shared plates and foods prepared over an open flame. Both outlets showcase seasonal produce, regionally sourced protein, and local and family-owned producers.
The hotel contains 265 guest rooms and has several options for meetings and events. Five spaces on its second floor serve as intimate meeting rooms or can be combined for larger events, with a maximum capacity of 120 attendees; its largest space is Perch, an open, flexible venue with 769 square feet that offers a bird’seye view of the surrounding neighborhood. Stellar Jay features a lounge, private dining room, bar, and outdoor terrace that in total holds groups as large as 150. populusdenver.com
HSMAI RETURNS TO DENVER
» THE INAUGURAL event for the revived Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Greater Denver Chapter was held in early August at Magnolia Denver with 48 people in attendance. A panel of industry leaders focused on market trends for the Denver hospitality industry and included Matt Ojinaga, director of convention sales at Visit Denver, among others. Christopher
Cheney, senior vice president of strategy and business analytics from Stonebridge Cos., served as the facilitator. At the conclusion of the event, the board of directors was officially installed, including Cheney, Ojinaga, Jessica Chamberlain, Mike Pennington, Seth Randall, Erick Valdes, and Amanda Whitley.
Nikki Bibbero and Jackson Christensen of Bibbero Meetings and Events are the
managing directors of the chapter, which plans to host four educational events, an executive roundtable, and several networking events annually. Since the first gathering, a strategic budgeting insights educational session was held in early September at Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, and the new Kimpton Claret Hotel in Denver hosted a happy hour for the association on Nov. 6. hsmaidenver.org
From left: Christopher Cheney, Nick Doble, Laura Jackson, Emmy Heise, and Matt Ojinaga at the HSMAI Greater Denver Chapter’s inaugural event, shown below
Denver Union Station Celebrates Renovations
» IN ACTION SINCE 1881, DOWNTOWN Denver’s landmark train station reopened to great fanfare in July 2014 after a $54 million renovation that included the creation of The Crawford Hotel. Denver Union Station commemorated the 10th anniversary of this epic revitalization this year with the completion of significant renovations and a threeday community celebration held from July 12-14. The refresh included the remodeling of all 112 hotel guest rooms, redesigning of the Great Hall and The Cooper Lounge, and upgrading of 8,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
Public events during the celebratory weekend included a Neighborhood Night, Community Day, and an opulent black-tie gala that included music by the Colorado Symphony Quartet and DJ Chris, entertainment by local painter Grow Love, and live ice carving. Onsite restaurants and bars served up refreshments for the 500 attendees, and over $200,000 was raised for more than 30 Colorado nonprofits. denverunionstation.com
Clockwise from lower left: Denver Union Station exterior; Live ice-carving at the black-tie event; Acrobatic entertainment; Mingling in The Great Hall
PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW LEFT) Denver Union Station, Rudy Ortega (3)
STANDOUT GIFT IDEAS
» WHEN SHOPPING for holiday gifts, welcome basket-fillers, or simply expressing goodwill to staff throughout the year, consider these two worthy options.
Ever since Boulder-based Seed Ranch Flavor Co. started selling sauce at the Boulder Farmers Market in 2017, the company has been delivering a taste of Colorado through high-quality, fresh ingredients. The newest product is Rocky Mountain Barbecue, a bold, smoky, and tangy sauce with a hint of the state’s famous Palisade peaches. The company’s products are all-natural, nonGMO, gluten-free, and vegan. For gifts, check out the bundles with themes, such as grill, spicy, and classic. seedranchflavor.com
Packed with Purpose assembles gift boxes that deliver social good. All items included are produced by small organizations that support meaningful causes around the U.S. For example, the Spread Some Cheer box features treats like Oreo bark, heirloom popcorn, and bite-sized chocolate chip cookies made by organizations that support causes such as ovarian cancer research, employment for individuals with developmental disabilities, and regenerative farming. The Positive Vibes box supports sustainability initiatives, women-owned businesses, and youth entrepreneurship, and features items like a stylish terrazzo mug, organic tea, biscuits, handmade jam, and a bonsai grow kit. packedwithpurpose.gifts
Looking to elevate a meeting or event? Check out Breckenridge, Colorado. Stay, work, and play at Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center, located at the corner of the mountain and Main Street. Featuring 515 slopeside guest rooms, suites, and condominiums, Beaver Run has it all—including 40,000 square feet of event space, in-house audiovisual technology, complete banquet services, the best location, mountain views, an experienced team, and so much more. Getting around is easy with the free Breckenridge bus system or with Beaver Run’s in-town shuttle for hotel guests. For the activity- and adventureseekers in the group, add an e-bike tour, tour Country Boy Mine, try fly-fishing, or take a historic hike up the Burro Trail. The opportunities are truly endless.
Seed Ranch Flavor Co.
Classic Ski-Town Charm
There is no formula for destinations like Aspen, Crested Butte, and Telluride—a fantastic sense of place and friendly locals set them apart BY
BETH BUEHLER
» WHAT DEFINES a classic? In the case of ski towns, it is an equation that involves mining and ranching history, vibrant downtowns, world-renowned ski resorts, and outstanding terrain for getting outside to play. Plus, these locales are a little hard to get to, which keeps out the masses, and they are populated with locals dedicated to protecting their community heritage.
Crested Butte was established in 1880 and remained a mining town until the 1950s; the economy began shifting to tourism when Crested Butte Mountain Resort opened in 1961, now owned by Vail Resorts based in Broomfield. Originally called Columbia, the town of Telluride was founded in 1878. The remote boomtown flourished until silver prices crashed in 1893 and the U.S. entered World War I in 1917. Like Crested Butte, Telluride reinvented itself with the opening of Telluride Ski Resort in December 1972.
Beginning in 1879, Aspen established itself as a silver-mining town and with it came wealth, grid-patterned streets, extravagant Victorian residences, and cultural landmarks like Wheeler Opera House and Hotel Jerome, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection. Sharing Telluride’s fate, its heyday dwindled until World War II veterans and Europeans with a skiing heritage began to imagine ski runs on Aspen Mountain in the late 1940s.
Aspen, Crested Butte, and Telluride are truly impressive with their beauty, distinct vibes, rich histories, and admirable selections of venues, lodging, and year-round activities. Simply put, they have all the makings for meeting and event success.
ASPEN
Aspen has four ski resorts to choose from, with Aspen Mountain conveniently located adjacent to downtown, while the other three—Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass—are accessible via free Roaring Fork Transportation Authority bus routes. Here, the gondola ride from town requires a ticket and takes you up to Aspen Mountain’s picturesque Sundeck venue, which is operated by The Little Nell,
PHOTOS
Aspen Chamber Resort Association, Luke Koppa, Telluride Tourism Board/Ryan Bonneau
a Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond property just steps away from the slopes.
Today, Aspen has 100,000 square feet of meeting and event space and 10 hotels that specialize in serving groups, including three that have received one Michelin key: The Little Nell, Mollie Aspen, and Hotel Jerome. For something a little different, The Gant Aspen has condominium lodging and a poolside conference center with panoramic views.
Aspen secured Mountain IDEAL certification as a sustainable destination in August and is a 100% renewable energypowered community—the Mountain IDEAL designation is recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, a nonprofit organization that establishes and manages global standards for sustainable travel and tourism.
Last summer, event-management company RMC Aspen, based in Basalt, worked with a group that had major production needs for a business meeting in Aspen. “Fortunately, Aspen Meadows Resort is equipped with the technology and space to host sophisticated and dynamic meetings,” says Libby Prewitt, senior sales manager at RMC Aspen.
The 40-acre property with 98 guest suites and 22,000 square feet of meeting and event space is owned by the global nonprofit Aspen Institute. In the mid1940s, Aspen Institute founder Walter Paepcke commissioned the renowned Bauhaus architect and artist Herbert Bayer to transform open land surrounding the town into a secluded destination.
“Whether it’s for a business meeting or a more playful incentive trip, it is always a treat to visit Aspen,” Prewitt says. “It is a perfect destination for networking, motivating, and celebrating hard work.”
As a premier Colorado ski town with a rich history, Aspen attracts visitors and groups from all over the world. “It boasts historic charm, bustling energy, a strong community feel, a vibrant après-ski and dining scene, and some of the best skiing in the American West,” Prewitt says.
CRESTED BUTTE
Free Mountain Express buses, colorfully painted by local artists, connect the town of Crested Butte and the ski village of Mount Crested Butte, home of Crested
Butte Mountain Resort. Equally as colorful are the storefronts on Elk Avenue, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.
The town is known for its free spirit; the sport of mountain biking was started here in tandem with Marin County, California— Crested Butte developed the trails and events while Marin County residents created the gear. There are hundreds of miles of trails for groups to try the sport or to find sublime places for hiking, horseback riding, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing.
Much of the meeting and event space is in Mount Crested Butte, but renting the Center for the Arts Crested Butte and Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum in Crested Butte for off-site dinners and receptions allows attendees to
Telluride’s free gondola; Above: Big views at Crested Butte Mountain Resort; Opposite: Snowy sleigh ride in Aspen
experience a nice combination of the two towns. For a taste of local, bring your groups to The Eldo or Zuni West Brewing for craft beer and to Anthracite Spirits and Montanya Distillers for cocktails.
Planner Deb Brannon, owner of Altitude Events in Golden, has been planning the Colorado Governor’s Tourism Conference (Gov Con) for a decade—her first one was in Crested Butte in 2014. Gov Con moves around each year, but this year returned to the area and was held in Mount Crested Butte from Sept. 25-27. With attendance capped at 425, this year accommodations were split among three properties located at the ski area base, and the conference was held at Elevation Hotel & Spa (trade show, breakout sessions, and registration) and the Mountaineer Square Conference
Center (general sessions and awards dinner). Outdoor events included a VIP reception at the train depot in Crested Butte, welcome reception on the Red Lady Lawn, awards reception on the Butte 66 deck, and board of directors’ lunch on the patio at restaurant José Crested Butte.
“Attendees want to enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado, so I always attempt to get them outside as much as possible,” Brannon says. “As part of our sustainability initiative, some attendees hiked from Aspen to Crested Butte. We were so fortunate with incredible weather, peak fall foliage, and stunning views.”
In addition, musicians, photographers, breweries, and distilleries from the area were tapped to provide a local angle. “I loved working with so many
people in the towns and getting to know not only the hotels in Mount Crested Butte but also the historic train depot, Bonez restaurant, and Center for the Arts Crested Butte,” Brannon says. “The town is beyond charming.”
TELLURIDE
A complimentary gondola runs between downtown Telluride and Mountain Village, home to Telluride Ski Resort. It is a treat to effortlessly glide over the mountain terrain in the gondola, with a stop midway for trail access and Allred’s Restaurant, a memorable place for groups to dine with delicious food and stellar views. Telluride’s downtown is a showstopper, with dramatic mountain surroundings and loads of historic buildings with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Cultural events and performing arts have played a large role in the town’s renaissance and now flow through the seasons with bluegrass, balloon, film, and other key festivals. As in any ski town, groups can select from all the usual outdoor activities. The most adventurous attendees should try the Telluride Via Ferrata alpine traverse, and golfers will love playing one of the highest-elevation golf courses in the world, Telluride Golf Club. End a day of meetings with local beverages at Stronghouse Brew Pub, Telluride Brewing Co., or Telluride Distilling Co. Due to its significant role in the history of the American West, the core area of Telluride was designated a National Historic
Fat biking in Telluride; Right: Historic downtown Telluride; Below: Après-ski at Aspen’s Hotel Jerome
Landmark District in 1961, one of only five Colorado communities to receive the honor.
When it comes to events, Telluride has top-notch venues. For the past five years, Austin Retina Associates based in Austin, Texas, has hosted the Telluride Retina Film Festival at the Telluride Conference Center, which is held in Mountain Village and has 16,000 square feet of function space.The educational surgical conference for retina specialists also hosts a welcome event at The Peaks Resort & Spa, where most attendees book lodging.
The event is an après-ski conference held in February, meaning that participants ski, snowboard, and take part in other winter activities like snowmobiling or go into town and enjoy spa treatments before sessions begin. After meetings wrap up, most
attendees head to downtown Telluride for dinner, says Stephanie Collins Mangham, CEO of Austin Retina Associates.
“Two retina specialists who are part of the planning group have homes in Telluride and Mountain Village, so that’s how we found the town and started the event,” Collins Mangham says. She notes attendees love the conference and the location, many coming in from Canada and Mexico. “I love that the town is walkable, dog friendly, and laid-back, and you leave feeling a sense of relaxation and fun.”
aspenchamber.org
aspensnowmass.com
gunnisoncrestedbutte.com
skicb.com
telluride.com
tellurideskiresort.com
BEST BETS
ASPEN
» LODGING:
Aspen Meadows Resort
The Gant Aspen
Hotel Jerome
The Little Nell
St. Regis Aspen Resort
» ATTRACTIONS:
Aspen Art Museum
Aspen Cross Country Center
Aspen Highlands
Aspen Mountain
Buttermilk
Pine Creek Cookhouse
Snowmass
Wheeler Opera House
CRESTED BUTTE
» LODGING:
Elevation Hotel & Spa
Elk Mountain Lodge
Grand Lodge Crested Butte
Lodge at Mountaineer Square
Scarp Ridge Lodge
» ATTRACTIONS:
Center for the Arts Crested Butte
Crested Butte Mountain
Heritage Museum
Crested Butte Mountain Resort
Crested Butte Nordic Center
TELLURIDE
» LODGING:
Hotel Columbia
Inn at Lost Creek
Madeline Hotel & Residences
New Sheridan Hotel
The Peaks Resort & Spa
» ATTRACTIONS:
Ah Haa School for the Arts
Sheridan Opera House
Telluride Conference Center
Telluride Golf Club
Telluride Ski Resort
Group snowshoeing experience available at The Gant Aspen
Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s ski area base
ONE-STOP-SHOP Convenience
BY BETH BUEHLER
Having a few extra sets of hands on deck, more creative brains to tap for ideas, and enough people to link all sorts of moving pieces is like striking gold for meeting and event planners. Especially in a day and age where the expectations of attendees and bosses are higher than ever. But if those extra bodies are not there from the get-go, what’s a planner to do?
Instead of losing sleep, drinking multiple cups of java, and having a wall full of Post-it note reminders, many planners are pursuing a one-stop-shop approach to maximize their time and seek expert local guidance. “In this era of AI-powered efficiency, meeting planners are under immense pressure to accomplish more in less time,” says Justin Ball, president and founder of Bespoke, a Denver-based global experiential event-marketing company. “Bespoke’s full-service capabilities allow planners to focus on their attendees and in-house needs, while we handle the logistics.”
To find out more about the options, Colorado Meetings + Events also reached out to a destination management company (DMC), two longtime Colorado catering companies that have expanded their services, and two destination marketing organizations that offer comprehensive assistance to planners and groups. There also are top-notch resorts and ranches sprinkled across the state, such as Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa, The Broadmoor and Garden of the Gods Resort & Club in Colorado Springs, and Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in Tabernash, which can provide lodging, meeting and event space, food and beverage, spa treatments, and activities all in one place.
“Our talented team includes event services managers to assist with the planning, banquet crews for setup and event execution, and culinary professionals dedicated
A build-your-own scent station at Bespoke’s Experience Appreciation event for top clients; Opposite, clockwise from above left: Dessert at Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel’s “Camp Sheraton” event; New prefunction space at Colorado Convention Center; Tablescape from gourmet glamping dinner at Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel; Luxury lodging at Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa
to preparing food for groups of all sizes,” confirms Thad Carlson, senior director of sales for Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa. “Planners oftentimes prefer a onestop shop for their events because it’s more efficient and leads to fewer breakdowns in communication. Also, not every company has a team of event planners. Many times, events are planned by just one person, and they can lean on the resources of the ranch to ensure a successful experience for their attendees.”
CONNECTING THE DOTS
“As Peter Drucker famously said, ‘Do what you do best and outsource the rest,’” Ball emphasizes. “Bespoke embodies this philosophy, becoming the trusted partner that allows planners to excel at their core competencies. From high-profile corporate meetings and events to industry-leading incentives and conferences, Bespoke scales to meet the diverse needs of our clients, becoming a seamless extension of their team during times of peak event demand.”
For example, Bespoke served as a onestop shop for a prestigious local membership organization that hosted an event in Aspen. The Bespoke team not only sourced a luxury venue and developed a dynamic
podcast that provided insights on the geography and history of the driving route to Aspen, but they also coordinated a fourcourse gondola dinner experience.
“Bespoke’s unparalleled expertise shone through in the seamless integration of every element,” Ball says. “From the innovative collaboration with The Little Nell’s acclaimed culinary team to curate the gondola dinner and expert wine pairings to the custom Colorado soundtrack set against the backdrop of an Aspen Mountain sunset, the gondola dining experience became a sensory journey and truly unforgettable experience for attendees.”
The company’s in-house experts also help with social media, registration, graphics, transportation, and other checklist endeavors to bring a level of integration and polish that elevates the entire event-planning experience.
When organizing a three-day meeting planner familiarization trip (FAM) held July 31-Aug. 2 in Denver, the team at Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel tapped its on-site partner CSI DMC, a destination management company based in Falls Church, Virginia, that operates out of 14 core offices across the U.S. An outdoorsy “Camp Sheraton” theme ran throughout
evening of the trip featured a gourmet glamping (luxury camping) experience with dinner and wine pairings in Parlur.
“CSI DMC collaborated closely with the Sheraton Denver Downtown to deliver a memorable FAM visit, handling everything from vendor sourcing to event logistics,” says Jordyn Wilmer, senior account executive for CSI DMC. “As the in-house DMC, our extensive knowledge of on-site protocols and back-of-house operations ensured a smooth execution. For off-site events, we used our local expertise in order to select the best venues and activities, offering guests a comprehensive and enriching destination experience.”
BEYOND CATERING
Denver-based Catering by Design has been in business for more than 25 years, resulting in an extensive network of partners throughout the state of Colorado and an enterprise that has grown to also include design services, rental decor, custom florals, graphic design, and fabrication. It also has an office in Gypsum to serve the Aspen and Vail areas and beyond.
“We are known throughout the industry for our beautiful food displays and creative catering solutions,” says Catering by Design’s Creative and Marketing Director Allie Piazza. “We knew there was a need within our market to provide more of these options to our clients without adding more to their plates. We have been slowly increasing our capabilities over the last few years to enhance offerings and provide comprehensive solutions.” And planners—especially when planning from out of state—have embraced the concept to streamline their process and reduce the stress of managing multiple vendors.
the program, from the welcome gift of a campfire scene made of chocolate to a hospitality room stocked with food, beverages, and backpacks that could be filled with water bottles, hiking socks, protein bars, sports drink powders, and more.
The event kicked off with a welcome reception featuring camp-style foods, craft beers served from a canoe, and a rafting photo booth in the Parlur venue before attendees boarded pedicabs to a concert at Ball Arena. Post-concert cocktails were served in the Sheraton’s Bezel bar. The following day, attendees could preselect activities that included a cooking class and brewery tour in Lower Downtown, relaxing spa treatments, and a scenic Jeep tour. The second
Wilmer notes a highlight of the visit was the transformation of the hotel’s Parlur event space into an elevated, memorable dinner experience. “We created an intimate atmosphere that transported guests to a serene Colorado forest,” she explains. “The space was beautifully decorated with greenery-lined draping, lush outdoor foliage, elegant lanterns, and exquisitely designed dinner tablescapes. The music and ambience complemented the setting, providing guests with a truly immersive experience.”
At its handy location in Sheraton Denver Downtown, CSI DMC assists all the way from the initial planning stages— including site visits—to the execution of events. “We are committed to supporting the hotel and ensuring that clients have the best experience during their stay in Denver,” Wilmer notes. “Our many services encompass everything from on-site decor and entertainment to venue sourcing, event planning, dine-arounds, transportation coordination, team-building activities, on-site staffing, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.”
Epicurean Hospitality Group, based in Centennial, began as a family-owned operation and has grown into a food service and hospitality company over the past 43 years. Epicurean specializes in off-premise sports, social, and venue management as well as catering and restaurant concepts. Its destination management division, E5 Events, was created as the demand for a one-stop-shop approach arose from many clients.
“Almost five years before the COVID-19 pandemic, we were getting clients from the catering side asking if would do everything for a meeting or event, and lots of times we were already doing that anyway,” says Larry DiPasquale, chair and founder of Epicurean Hospitality Group. “We can combine all of our services under one business, adding to the customer experience and relationship, which has been a tremendous success for us.”
For example, a wealth-management firm took advantage of several services under the Epicurean umbrella for one clientappreciation gathering. “They had never done an event like this before and needed
Clockwise from above: A rafting photo booth at Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel’s “Camp Sheraton” event; Colorado Convention Center’s blue bear mascot mingling with attendees; Event at Aurora’s StanleyMarketplace, one of many venues Visit Aurora can help planners secure
catering, decor, and event management,” says Wesley Guzman, vice president for E5 Events. “E5 planned an amazing first-time customer event at Wings Over the Rockies at the Centennial Airport to great success. We are already planning next year’s event.”
Guzman says E5 also planned a successful series of memorable events for financial technology company TIFIN, which has an office in Boulder. “E5 coordinated a cowboy hat-making experience and an elegant dinner for the company’s executives,” he says. “Planners always comment how easy it is to work with just one firm to plan catering, decor, transportation, and overall event management. And this is exactly why we have branched out.”
Guzman adds, “Today’s corporate planners are hosting events in many destinations at once, so they need easy, one-stop planning assistance and expertise as they juggle multiple projects. We have heard many times that they love being in Denver and working with E5 because they don’t have it as easy in other cities.”
LOCAL EXPERTS
Destination marketing organizations (DMOs) also help planners link everything together so they do not have to spend hours searching for information.“Our destination
“PLANNERS ALWAYS COMMENT HOW EASY IT IS TO WORK WITH JUST ONE FIRM TO PLAN CATERING, DECOR, TRANSPORTATION, AND OVERALL EVENT MANAGEMENT.”
–WESLEY GUZMAN, VICE PRESIDENT, E5
EVENTS
services team streamlines the planning process by offering local expertise, venue selection, site visits, and coordination of accommodations and transportation,” says Heather Savoca, director of destination services at Visit Aurora. “With our extensive network and dedication, Visit Aurora saves valuable time and ensures a seamless meeting and convention experience.”
In addition, the DMO provides access to digital resources, brochures, video, and photos to support conference marketing and attendance-building efforts. Visit
Selfies galore on the new 20,000-square-foot outdoor terrace at Colorado Convention Center
Aurora also offers social media assistance for conference promotion and can create a microsite to provide attendees with ideas for Aurora-based activities, dining options, and more. Along these same lines, a staffed information desk with visitor guides, maps, and other destinationrelated promotional materials can be arranged for conference arrival day, and registration staffing assistance can be provided if certain requirements are met.
“Our commitment to excellence and local insights makes us an invaluable partner when coming to Aurora,” says Savoca, who worked for Denver-based DMCs for 14 years and as an event planner for Tennyson Center for Children in Denver before joining Visit Aurora.
Visit Denver’s destination services team is available to support meetings and events of all sizes and offers a similar menu of options. “Our team also serves as a liaison to the Denver community, helping to link planners with hotels, government offices, city agencies, and our hospitality community,” says Visit Denver Director of Destination Services and Events Vikki Valencia Kelly, CMP. “We support an organized planning experience and help your event run smoothly.”
Whether a group is planning a corporate meeting, conference, or incentive trip, DMOs have the knowledge and connections to support diverse needs. Kelly says, “Destination marketing organizations are extremely knowledgeable about a city and can help answer any questions you might have about planning a meeting or event. They have firsthand experience with hotels, transportation companies, venues, plus more, and serve as a trustworthy destination liaison.”
» IN EARLY AUGUST, hospitality company Aspen One transitioned the eatery Citizen Rail at the Limelight Denver hotel to Ajax Downtown, a sister restaurant to the iconic Ajax Tavern in Aspen. Citizen Rail’s Executive Chef Jared Becker continues to lead the kitchen team, and Jennifer Lordan remains director of food and beverage. Honoring the art of cooking over open flame, Ajax Downtown’s coal-fired cooking techniques take center stage. The restaurant sources produce and premium beef within Colorado and has a customized dry-aging room for meats. Groups can book the bar and a semiprivate area in the restaurant or private spaces in the hotel for meals and receptions.
Frasca Hospitality Group, based in Boulder, and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail are partnering to open Tavernetta Vail within the latter this winter. Like its namesake in Denver, Tavernetta Vail will offer a menu that explores the whole of Italy and includes an all-Italian wine list and an Italian-inspired spirits list and digestif program. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor spaces, including a private dining room. Tavernetta Vail is one of many enhancements for Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail, joining a reimagined spa, renovated suites, and new ski concierge to assist with ski rentals, lessons, maps, and more. ajaxrestaurant.com | frascahospitalitygroup.com | fourseasons.com/vail
Halcyon Adds Rooftop Venue
Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek, will introduce a 1,845-square-foot rooftop event venue, The Peak, this winter. The Peak is located on the sixth floor and delivers expansive views of the Rocky Mountains and Denver’s skyline, holding up to 100 attendees classroomstyle and 130 reception-style.
halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com
Negroni and cacio e pepe at Tavernetta Vail; Left: Sumptuous spread at Ajax Downtown in Denver
THE LATEST FROM DENVER’S DAIRY BLOCK
» THE MAVEN HOTEL IN DENVER’S Dairy Block, a microdistrict in Lower Downtown, worked with local RedLine Contemporary Art Center to commission seven new murals. RedLine is a Denver-based nonprofit arts organization that fosters education and engagement between artists and communities to create positive social change. The colorful murals welcome guests to each of the floors as they step off the elevator and are part of The Maven’s collection of more than 700 original paintings, sculptures, and photographs by Colorado artists. The hotel contains 2,100 square feet of flexible event space, on-site catering, and modern audiovisual equipment for planners to take advantage of.
Denver Milk Market, the Dairy Block’s food hall, has undergone an extensive update, including the addition of two new food concepts, a game room, large mural by Colorado-based artist Graham Carraway, and more. The new Bos Butcher & Deli offers tasty options like the Cowboy Burger and the B.B.L.T. (bacon, burrata, lettuce, and tomato), while Fuso is dishing up classic Italian hand-tossed pizzas and homemade pasta dishes. Denver Milk Market can be booked for private and semiprivate events for groups ranging from 24 to 450 guests. denvermilkmarket.com | themavenhotel.com
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» DENVER ADDED A SECOND Kimpton in mid-July with the opening of Kimpton Claret Hotel, the first hotel in the growing Belleview Station area in the south Denver corridor. The 19-story hotel features 190 guest rooms and two culinary concepts:
Elway’s Downtown Unveils Renovation
» IN AUGUST, The Ritz-Carlton, Denver, introduced a total refresh of its signature restaurant, Elway’s Downtown. The steakhouse has returned to action with an updated look and revamped menu by Executive Chef David Schaumburger, inspired by local ingredients and the rich flavors of Colorado cuisine. Comfortable seating and stylish lighting reflect the Denver vibe and tasteful decor pays homage to NFL and Denver Broncos legend John Elway.
Elway’s Downtown has three private dining rooms that can accommodate a total of 160 guests, including a chef’s table for up to 15 that has a window looking into the heart of the kitchen. The bar can be booked for happy hour gatherings and group cocktail hours. elways.com
the Italian-inspired Saverina on the ground floor and Halo Rooftop Bar. With 10,000 square feet of meeting space, the property can host groups of up to 250 with two ballrooms, a boardroom, a prefunction space, and an outdoor terrace. clarethotel.com
Halo Rooftop Bar, ideal for receptions; Right: Fried oyster soba noodles from the rooftop’s menu
Honoring Legacy
The Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration Award will be presented to Philip Anschutz at the Historic Hotels Annual Conference on Nov. 21 in Hot Springs, Virginia. His innovative stewardship includes committing two iconic and legendary historic resorts that he owns—The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs and Sea Island Resort in Georgia—to 100-year trusts, which prohibits them from being sold and ensures their future stability. These Forbes Five-Star and AAA FiveDiamond resorts are steeped in history, tradition, service, and excellence. In addition, the award recognizes Anschutz’ company, The Anschutz Corp., based in Denver, for its investment of more than $100 million in the restoration of The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, a cog train that first opened in 1891 to take passengers to the top of 14,115-foot Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs
Aaron Bajorek joined The Inverness Denver, A Hilton Golf & Spa Resort, in Englewood this year, with two decades of experience. Before joining The Inverness, Bajorek was general manager at The Jacquard Hotel & Rooftop in Denver.
Jing Butler was promoted to director of sales at The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Avon, Vail Valley, in Avon. She has been a member of The Westin Riverfront sales team for more than a decade, most recently serving as its associate director of sales.
Jennifer Cottgias was appointed general manager of The Maven Hotel in downtown Denver’s Dairy Block this year by Sage Hospitality Group. Cottgias previously held the same role at Courtyard Portland City Center in Oregon.
Nate Couture was appointed marketing manager of Lower Downtown (LoDo) Denver’s Dairy Block. Previously, Couture served as marketing manager at LoDo’s McGregor Square entertainment complex for Sage Hospitality Group.
Katie de Besche is the new director of sales at Viceroy Snowmass in Snowmass Village, where she was the sales manager when the property debuted in 2009. Most recently, she worked at Hotel Jerome in Aspen as national group sales manager.
HISTORIC HOTEL TRANSFORMS
» THE MINING EXCHANGE BUILDING opened in 1902 as the stock exchange for precious gold and silver in Colorado Springs and became a hotel 110 years later. Under new ownership since 2022, The Mining Exchange Hotel, A Wyndham Grand Hotel & Spa, this year has unveiled a redesigned lobby, 128 renovated guest rooms, a refreshed spa, and 11,000 square feet of upgraded meeting and event space that includes two ballrooms, a boardroom, and an outdoor terrace. The reimagined property also has new food and beverage concepts, such as BLK MGK, a full-service coffee bar; and Golden Hour, a bar and outdoor courtyard. Original elements, including the mining exchange safe and vault doors, pay homage to the hotel’s history. miningexchangehotel.com
Dan Dohner is the first general manager for Keystone’s Kindred Resort, set to open next year. Dohner has 25 years of experience in the industry, most recently working as the general manager of Hilton Garden Inn Denver Union Station.
Gregg Fracassa brings over 25 years of experience to his new role as general manager of Viewline Resort Snowmass, Autograph Collection. Previously, he was general manager of Snow King Resort in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Megan Pierce was promoted to area director of sales and marketing for The Curtis, A DoubleTree by Hilton, and Hotel Teatro in Denver. Pierce has worked at The Curtis for four years, most recently as director of sales and marketing.
Connie Power is the new director of sales and marketing for Aspen Meadows Resort in Aspen. With 25 years of experience, Power is a fifth-generation Aspen local who previously worked in the same role for Aspen Square Condominium Hotel.
Lizzie Raudenbush was promoted to the role of area general manager for The Curtis, A DoubleTree by Hilton, and Hotel Teatro in Denver by Sage Hospitality Group this year. Previously, she served as general manager of The Curtis.
PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT)
Michael Kleinberg Photography, Kindred Resort, Viewline Resort Snowmass, The Curtis, Aspen Meadows Resort, The Curtis, Viceroy Snowmass, Nate Couture, The Maven Hotel, The Westin Riverfront, The Inverness Denver
HALCYON LEADER
RECOGNIZED
The Boutique Lifestyle Lodging Association (BLLA) has honored McClinton Heil, managing direc tor of Denver’s Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek, with the Best Boutique Hotel General Manager award. The award recognizes Heil for the exceptional leadership and community-driven approach he brings to the hotel—just outside of downtown Denver—which he has been with since 2022. Established in 2010 and given annually, the BLLA Awards honor the most daring and innovative achieve ments in the global boutique hospitality industry.
blla.org halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com
Snowbird—nestled among the stunning peaks of Utah’s Little Cottonwood Canyon—features modern facilities, along with dozens of activities and amenities. This ideal destination for corporate events and meetings is 29 miles from the Salt Lake City International Airport, allowing attendees to spend less time traveling and more time relaxing. Guests can access all lodging accommodations, meeting facilities, dining options, and recreational activities via scenic walks through Snowbird’s pedestrian village. Call today to arrange your ideal Snowbird meeting or event.
Boots, Bolos & BBQ
In late June, members and guests of Meeting Professionals International Rocky Mountain Chapter (MPIRMC) pulled on their boots and dusted off cowboy hats for the Boots, Bolos & BBQ event at the historic Four Mile Park in Denver. Authentic barbecue, live music, casino tables, ax throwing, trick riding, and other Western-themed games were all part of MPIRMC’s annual fundraiser, which also served as an opportunity to showcase several event sponsors. Denver-based One Stop Pop’s new event tent served as the indoor venue while the surrounding 12-acre park was an ideal backdrop for an evening of networking with fellow cowpokes. mpi.org
Casino games by Fun Productions
Rope tricks courtesy of Bailey Jean Western Entertainment 3. Ax throwing provided by Ignite Experiences
Rose Evensen and Denzell Oats
Iliana Ruminski, Megan Granrud, and Sara Olán-Peterson 6. Bryan Rossmanth Ben Wood, Viveca McDonald, and Keith Templeton 8. Danielle Dela Paz and Fig Wirkler 9. Gary Schirmacher and Abby Schirmacher
Visit Colorado Springs
Welcome to Colorado Springs, known as Olympic City USA, located at the base of Pikes Peak, in a place where wide-open spaces and stunning scenery are the backdrop to your Rocky Mountain meetings and events. The city’s 300 days of sunshine, mild climate, and more than 55 attractions allow for year-round activities for groups of all sizes, ages, and abilities. Along with exciting adventure, discover historic properties, unique venues, and valuepriced, first-tier amenities.
Hotel Polaris, one of Colorado Springs’ newest lodging properties, is located at the U.S. Air Force Academy’s North Gate. The hotel offers on-site dining options, a spa, an outdoor pool, a rooftop bar, and two in-house flight simulators for a real-life pilot experience. With 26,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, a ballroom, a junior
ballroom, ample pre-function space, sprawling outdoor space, and nine meeting and board rooms, Hotel Polaris can accommodate events of every scale.
The abundance of outdoor recreation makes for unique teambuilding opportunities. Explore with Adventures Out West—book Jeep tours, hors eback rides, hot air balloon excursions, and more. Afterward, treat your team to a guided food tour. Rocky Mountain Food Tours allows groups to try several local restaurants while learning about the area’s history.
Colorado Springs is home to unique amenities you can’t find anywhere else. The Visit Colorado Springs team is ready to help with complimentary services including leads to hotels and service providers, personalized site inspections, and promotional materials.
Halfway to just about anywhere and tucked into the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is the backdrop to thousands of meetings and events each year. You handle the agenda and we’ll take care of after-hours “breakout sessions’ at local breweries and rooftop patios.
You’ll never compromise when you meet in the middle.
“I learned mainly through trial and error, frequent visits to my local Woodcraft shop, and videos on YouTube.”
–JUSTIN CLARK
Changing It Up
Justin Clark transitions from influencing gatherings to crafting usable art
BY BETH BUEHLER
Justin Clark was used to being hands-on as vice president of sales and services for Visit Aurora and open space resources and events superintendent for the City of Aurora. Last year, he took this skill to a new level upon becoming a full-time craftsman. The creation of Black Rabbit Woodcraft based in Centennial was born out of his desire to fashion utilitarian items such as charcuterie boards, bookshelves, plant stands, and more from sustainably sourced materials.
People in the meetings and events industry have noticed. “I am currently sharing these items with some of Colorado’s best hotels and resorts for client gifts and amenities. In addition, a number of associations and corporate groups are purchasing
items for their board members, employees, and event attendees,” Clark says.
While he is busy sawing and whittling away, Clark remains active with industry associations. He currently is the director of leadership development for Meeting Professionals International Rocky Mountain Chapter and director of programs for Meetings Industry Council (MIC) of Colorado. At the 2024 MIC of Colorado Educational Conference & Trade Show, he was presented with the Chairman’s Award, a nod to being co-chair for MIC’s Serving Up Hope luncheon for four years.
After hectic jobs in the meetings and events industry, Clark says he established Black Rabbit Woodcraft to live a more balanced and intentional life with the opportunity
to create things that are tangible, beautiful, and useful. “I learned mainly through trial and error, frequent visits to my local Woodcraft shop, and videos on YouTube.”
Clark and his wife, Jana, also own Aurora-based Native Soap Co. that makes and sells small-batch, organic personal care products online and at farmers and craft markets. “Our most popular products are cold-processed soaps and whipped body butters and creams,” he says.
Being self-employed also has provided Clark with additional free time to enjoy his favorite pastimes. Clark says, “I love to read, practice traditional archery, tend our beehives, and cook meals using the vegetables and fruits my wife grows in our gardens.” blackrabbitwoodcraft.com
