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INSIDE
A bevy of new and noteworthy venues awaits just across the border. {14}
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north of ordinary
State-of-the-art meeting facilities in unique spaces raise the level of your event. Personalized service to fit your meeting needs in space close to after-hours experiences can be sourced by contacting Kimberly Wright, CMP at kwright@cnscvb.com
find your unique venue at visitchicagonorthshore.com/meetingspace
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Winter 2020 ILLINOIS MEETINGS + EVENTS MAGAZINE: IN THIS ISSUE
FEATURE
DEPARTMENTS
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4 EDITOR’S LETTER
Road Trip: Wisconsin
12 DESTINATION From state-of-the-art expo centers to revitalized spaces teeming with character, Chicago Southland offers unique options for events. By Maura Keller
Abuzz with a new wave of tourism, world-class events and a revitalizing building boom, there are plenty of new and noteworthy venues to discover across the border. By Megan Gosch
32 PEOPLE PROFILE Chicago-based planner and stylist Rachel De Marte brings the fun to design- and food-focused events. By Megan Gosch
MEETING NOTES 7 BYO BARTENDER In-hotel wine, beer and cocktail taps are bringing the bar right to your room. By Kassidy Tarala
8 BEYOND THE BORDER The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal offers a secluded setting for the ultimate seaside retreat. By Megan Gosch 9 MEETING MUNCHIES BomboBar offers a menu chock-full of customizable sweet and savory options. By Megan Ekstrand
10 NEW VENUE SPOTLIGHT A West Loop favorite offers a bright, plant-filled escape for private events. By Megan Gosch
11 RESTAURANT REC Pisolino serves up refined Italian classics and custom event offerings. By Megan Gosch
11 TEAM-BUILDING Native 312 Events helps groups flex their creative muscles with graffiti workshops. By Kassidy Tarala
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INDUSTRY UPDATES 24 INFOGRAPHIC CWT Meetings & Events’ 2020 Future Trends Report identifies key developments in the industry and projects growth in 2020. Research courtesy of CWT
ON THE COVER M E E T I N G S M A G S . C O M // W I N T E R 2 0 2 0
INSIDE
26 REGIONAL NEWS What’s happening in the local industry. Compiled by Megan Gosch
30 SNAPSHOTS
Photos from Chicago’s Hospitality Fest 2019
A bevy of new and noteworthy venues awaits just across the border. {14}
In the midst of a statewide renaissance, explore plenty of Wisconsin’s new event offerings on page 14. Illustration by Traci Zellmann.
P H OTO : K I M P TO N J O U R N E Y M A N H OT E L
10 SIGNATURE DRINK Pink Spritz, courtesy of Bad Hunter
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EDITOR'S LETTER
New Attitude
Megan Gosch, editor CONTACT ME AT MEGAN.GOSCH@TIGEROAK.COM
CHANCES ARE, most Illinois-based planners already feel pretty familiar with our neighbor to the north, having ventured across the border at least once or twice, but the time is now to take a second look. While often overshadowed as a rustic flyover relic or pigeonholed as the land of cheese and beer, new visitors are discovering Wisconsin as a well-kept secret that’s been hiding in plain sight, bringing a new buzz to the dairy state. “For a good deal of new visitors, Wisconsin was not exactly on their radar, but they’re so pleasantly surprised at just how much we have to offer when they arrive” says Lindsey McKee, communications manager for VISIT Milwaukee. “There’s so much to do and so much that’s changed, they can’t believe what they’ve been missing and, of course, we love letting them in on the secret.” And as Wisconsin prepares to welcome a new wave of visitors this year as the host of several major events including the 2020 Democratic National Convention and the 2020 Ryder Cup, a statewide building and revitalization boom has not only prepared the state to step into the international spotlight, it’s left planners with a plethora of new meeting and event options. From affordable amenities and a new state-of-the-art arena and entertainment district to boutique hotels and venues steeped in local character and unique activities to get attendees out of the boardroom, flip to page 14 to check out some of Wisconsin’s newest and most noteworthy offerings. We also head to Chicago Southland for this issue’s Destination. Embrace Chicago’s southern charm, complete with trendy restaurants, newly renovated venues and adrenaline pumping team-building activities on page 12. Meet style, design and food-focused planner, stylist and selfdescribed maximalist Rachel De Marte on page 32 or check out a new Chicago West Loop eatery offering groups a bright, plant-filled urban escape for private events on page 10. Thank you for reading and be sure to send any thoughts or ideas my way at Megan.Gosch@tigeroak.com. I’d love to hear from you!
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Cheers,
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WINTER 2020
il.meetingsmags.com EDITOR
Megan Gosch
MANAGING EDITOR Morgan Halaska ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kassidy Tarala DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Julianna Fazio CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Maura Keller EDITORIAL INTERNS Dinneen Graff, Megan Ekstrand, Hannah Cullen,
OUR E-NEWSLETTER
Sophie Jonsson
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Lindsay Arellano, Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau • Michelle Castady, DMCP, 360 Destination Group, Chicago • Ana Espinoza, Wagstaff Worldwide • Marla Fleishman, Pinstripes • Sarah Ficek, Heron Agency • Tricia Fusilero, Corporate Event Interactive • Stan Hansen, Sodexo Sports & Leisure • T.J. Johnston, Topgolf Wood Dale • Malaika Martin, Revel Decor • Ken McGarrie, DineAmic Group Hospitality Development Dana Morones, FFT Chicago • Dave Parulo, Meet Chicago Northwest • Tina Reedy, TRAVIS Inc. Shaun Rajah, The Drake Hotel, Hilton Worldwide • Gia Skiba, Entertainment Cruises - Chicago Nicole Zenner, CSEP, LK Events DESIGN DIRECTOR ART DIRECTORS PRODUCTION DIRECTOR PROJECT COORDINATORS
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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION
Meeting Notes BEYOND THE BORDER 8
MEETING MUNCHIES
9
BYO BARTENDER
In-hotel wine, beer and cocktail taps are bringing the bar right to your room. The hotel bar is a fun, convenient option to unwind after a long day of meetings, but with companies like Plum Wine and PourMyBeer, hotels are now taking it one step further: They’re bringing the bar to your room. That’s right—throw on that plush robe and slippers because you no longer need to leave the room to grab a drink.
P H OTO S : P LU M W I N E ; P O U R M Y B E E R
Plum Wine
Since opening its first in-room taps in 2018 at the Four Seasons in Silicon Valley, Plum Wine has been bringing wine, beer and spirits to guests’ rooms in 22 hotels across the United States. The Plum amenity houses up to two bottles of wine that can be preserved for up to 90 days using argon gas. “Similar to a Nespresso machine, when a guest wants a glass of wine or spirit in the convenience of their hotel room, they just press a button,” says founder David Koretz. Koretz says meetings and events planners can customize Plum to their attendees’ liking by offering a unique experience to sample many local wines and pair them with the hotel’s menu. “It’s all about exceeding guest expectations. Guests today aren’t just looking for a bed to sleep in; rather, they crave an experience that allows them to indulge and feel catered to. They crave an experience that exceeds what they can get at home,” Koretz says.
SIGNATURE DRINK
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TEAM-BUILDING
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A Plum canister, which serves more than 1,000 pours, uses cloud and artificial intelligence to identify the label of a bottle of wine, beer or spirit, and automatically sets the perfect temperature for each bottle.
PourMyBeer
With self-pour taps in hotel lobbies across the United States and Canada, PourMyBeer offers guests the opportunity the pour their own wine, beer, kombucha or cold brew and bring it back to their rooms. “Guests can use their room key to get a beverage of their choice any time they want and pour it by the ounce. For example, some hotels have bars only open for a few hours a day, limiting their beverage sales. This is not an issue with self-pour technology, which allows the guest to access the beverages around the clock,” says Tana Rulkova, marketing manager. PourMyBeer allows guests to access only two drinks at a time, but if a guest requests more, hotel staff can give keycard access to two more. Though PourMyBeer has the capability to install a tap in each individual guest room, Rulkova says it is more cost efficient and lower maintenance for hotels to serve these kegged beverages in a tap located in the lobby for all guests to use. “We want to offer an easy-to-deploy mobile dispense solution to hotels that they can activate for events or just everyday use in the lobby,” Rulkova says. —Kassidy Tarala
Get Connected PLUM WINE | plum.wine
POURMYBEER | pourmybeer.com
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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION
BEYOND THE BORDER»
A WORLD APART
FOR GROUPS meeting south of the border, the Forbes Five-Star Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal offers a peaceful backdrop for the ultimate seaside retreat. Nestled at the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, each guest’s unforgettable experience begins the moment they’ve emerged from the torch-lit corridor of the Don Mares tunnel to discover panoramic Pacific Ocean views. Carved from the cliffs of Pedregal Mountain, the 24-acre haven feels worlds apart from the nearby downtown Cabo
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San Lucas, creating a peaceful environment for groups to meet, mingle, relax and recharge. After unwinding with a complimentary margarita, guests are accompanied to one of the resort’s 119 lavish guest rooms—each featuring a rainfall shower, an indoor fireplace, a stunning ocean view and a luxurious private terrace and plunge pool—by a personal concierge (assigned to each guest and available for around-the-clock assistance). Binoculars are also available for guests hoping to spot the humpback whales that gather nearby. When arranging on-site events, from executive retreats and board meetings to weddings and social events, planners have access to
the resort’s experienced meetings maitre d’, available to assist with seamless event execution from start to finish. While the property offers two well-appointed indoor event spaces accommodating 50-110 seated guests, the resort’s many seaside locales create an unbeatable backdrop for private dinners or cocktail receptions. Small groups of 30-60 guests can enjoy the Casa Bella Vista, overlooking the lights of the Marina of Cabo San Lucas, or venture to El Farallon, one of the property’s five on-site restaurants. El Farallon accommodates up to 160 guests and showcases refined, traditional Baja and Mexican dishes with an ocean-to-table menu of fresh fish
P H O T O S : WA L D O R F A S T O R I A L O S C A B O S P E D R E G A L ; (OPPOSITE) BOMBOBAR
The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal’s tranquil setting is ideal for intimate group retreats, executive meetings and incentive trips. B Y M E G A N G O S C H
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P H O T O S : WA L D O R F A S T O R I A L O S C A B O S P E D R E G A L ; (OPPOSITE) BOMBOBAR
sourced from the surrounding waters on an alfresco terrace suspended over the Pacific. Groups can also imbibe at the resort’s new Va y Viene mobile bar, sipping champagne from swinging chairs, or gather at the open-air La Palapa for a sunset dinner serenaded by the crashing waves or one of the resort’s talented live musical groups. Between meetings, guests can take a dip in one of the resort’s four pools, stop by the on-site fitness center or decompress at the 12,000-square-foot Forbes Five Star Waldorf Astoria Spa. With a private spa pool and ocean view treatment rooms, guests have access to a full range of services including a suite of moon phase treatments that emphasize the healing influence of the lunar cycle, and The Intention—a Mexican folk healing treatment that includes an energy cleansing ritual and a Mexican folk massage, developed with the help of local “curanderos” and shamans. Personal concierges can also help arrange dozens of additional activities for guests, from cocktail or cooking classes and Spanish lessons to thrilling off-site snorkeling, kayaking or horseback riding adventures and curated excursions like surf fishing or swimming with whale sharks with seasoned local guides. Yet, what guests may remember most is the resort’s serene and secluded atmosphere—even at maximum capacity, guests can wander the resort’s winding pathways and feel as though they have the entire resort to themselves—and its commitment to impeccably personalized service. “We learn as much as we can about our guests to help them fully enjoy all we have to offer,” says Director of Sales and Marketing Jorge Villarreal. “Hospitality’s in our blood. It’s a part of our culture, and it’s intuitive—never forced or cold—and guests can feel that. Here, they can take a deep breath and relax, and know they’re in good hands.”
MEETING MUNCHIES»
Holy Bomboloni!
BomboBar puts a fun twist on a classic treat. BY MEGAN EKSTR AND What do fluffy Italian doughnuts, CBD-infused shakes and pizza by-the-square have in common? Not a lot, but they are all the craze at Chicago’s BomboBar. With a menu chock-full of customizable sweet and savory options, there’s something for everyone, even for the pups! BomboBar’s most iconic treat is part-owner/executive chef Fabio Viviani’s Bomboloni. This yeast-raised Italian doughnut is tender and light compared to the dense, cake-like texture of traditional doughnuts and can get even gooier with the option to inject the doughnuts with your choice of filling. These tasty doughnuts can be delivered or picked up for meetings of any size, beginning at a minimum of a dozen. BomboBar will even arrange catering for larger events with fun activations and Bomboloni stations. “BomboBar’s variety of flavors makes it easy for everyone in the office to find something that suits their tastes because they’re able to opt-out of the available flavors with the classic Bomboloni or choose from flavors like vanilla, Nutella, raspberry, s’mores, salted caramel and more,” says Haley Norman, catering manager for DineAmic Hospitality, which owns BomboBar. “Of course, Bombolonis are always house-made from scratch daily; ensuring every doughnut is served fresh.” But mouthwatering doughnuts aren’t the eatery’s only star sweets. BomboBar’s Insta-famous shakes, coined Hotter Chocolates, are now available with CBD extract. Topped with edible glitter, a Bomboloni, cookies and cotton candy, these milky Calmer Chocolates are as photogenic as they are delicious. The calming indulgence has proven so popular that BomboBar sold out the first week it was introduced. Chicagoans are now able to enjoy their favorite Bomboburgers, house-made gelato and dog-friendly “woof-cream” north of the West Loop location. In spring 2019, BomboBar opened a 30-seat restaurant that serves alcohol and additional menu items in the Old Town neighborhood.
Get Connected
BOMBOBAR | bombobar.com | 312.967.7000
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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION
NEW VENUE SPOTLIGHT»
THE HERBARIUM AT BAD HUNTER
A West Loop favorite creates a bright, plant-filled escape for private events. BY MEGAN GOSCH
Get Connected BAD HUNTER | badhunter.com | info@badhunter.com THE HERBARIUM AT BAD HUNTER | theherbariumchicago.com | events@badhunter.com
P H OTO S : K R I S T E N M E N D I O L A ; (O P P O S I T E ) P I S O L I N O ; E L L I OT A B L E
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lready a Restaurant Row haven for vegans and vegetarians, Bad Hunter also happens to house the ultimate urban greenhouse venue to boot. Located just above the vegetable-forward eatery, The Herbarium at Bad Hunter creates a seamless transition from its bright, airy counterpart downstairs. “There are a ton of beautiful private dining rooms in the West Loop, but space can be limited or dark, often in the basement or back of the restaurant,” says Kat Krzynowek, Heisler Hospitality event coordinator. “The Herbarium spans the length of the second floor, boasting high ceilings, large windows and skylights for an abundance of natural light, a stunning glass backbar, plush velvet seating and plenty of lush greenery.” From cocktail competitions to weddings or holiday bazaars, with nearly 1,800 square feet of event space The Herbarium can accommodate up to 100 guests for private dining events and up to 150 for corporate and social events and receptions of all kinds. A convenient separate entrance and luxe floor-to-ceiling curtains can help divide the space and create an intimate setting for semiprivate events. And with one of the West Loop’s most popular restaurants just downstairs, planners can take full advantage of The Herbarium’s dedicated full-service kitchen and bar. “Our Bad Hunter team handles everything food- and beverage-related, allowing us to completely customize and tailor menus, cocktails and wine pairings to your event. And booking is convenient because we offer everything in-house: staffing, furniture, glassware, A/V equipment, etc.” says Krzynowek. Smaller groups of eight or less are an ideal fit for Bad Hunter’s sun-drenched, openair main dining room and can enjoy seasonal, sustainable and primarily plant-based crowd favorites like butter dumplings or the Bad Hunter Burger from stone-top tables or the eatery’s living garden island.
SIGNATURE DRINK»
Pink Spritz
Courtesy of Bad Hunter INGREDIENTS: —3 oz. dry sparkling rosé —1.5 oz. Ramazzotti Aperitivo Rosato —.5 oz. Batavia Arrack (or Blanc Rhum Agricole) —1 oz. tonic water DIRECTIONS: Combine ingredients in a wine glass, add ice and enjoy!
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P H OTO S : K R I S T E N M E N D I O L A ; (O P P O S I T E ) P I S O L I N O ; E L L I OT A B L E
RESTAURANT REC»
PISOLINO
FIND REFINED ITALIAN CLASSICS AND CUSTOM EVENT OPTIONS AT THIS COZY NEIGHBORHOOD SPOT. The atmosphere at relaxed Avondale neighborhood eatery Pisolino may remind you of a charming, laid-back European bistro—and for good reason. Chef and co-owner James De Marte spent over a decade cooking his way through Italy to craft and hone the skills on full display at the cozy restaurant today. “The restaurant is truly his dream-turnedreality and a showcase of his love for Italian cuisine,” says co-owner Rachel De Marte (featured on page 32). “It’s a neighborhood spot, so it’s quaint and feels residential. Pisolino—which means nap in Italian—has the perfect vibe to come relax, have a cocktail or some amazing wine, eat, visit and stay a while,” she says. Serving refined, yet hearty and comforting Italian classics, from pizzas and pastas to Negronis and Americanos, “we always joke that you come to eat at Pisolino and then you take a pisolino.” Accommodating up to 40 guests seated and 55 for a cocktail-style reception with a full buyout, Pisolino is a popular spot for intimate private events from rehearsal dinners to surprise parties. As a dedicated event planner and stylist who enjoys a creative challenge, De Marte can work with planners to customize everything from specialty cocktails and menus to décor. “I come from custom and I really want to hear what clients are looking for. Some want to relax with a classic pizza party while others are looking for a 12-course event and we’re happy to arrange all of it,” she says. “Whether that includes passed hors d’oeuvres and family-style dishes off the menu or an exquisite lobster risotto, I’ll sit down with our clients and chef to truly cater the dining experience to their original vision. Every event here is unique.” pisolinochicago.com —Megan Gosch
TEAM-BUILDING»
PRIMAL PAINTERS Native 312 Events allows groups to flex their creative muscles with graffiti art workshops. BY K A SSIDY TA R A L A There’s no better way to build team spirit than with a can of spray paint and a blank canvas. Native 312 Events gives groups a chance to foster community and creativity while learning about one of Chicago’s most widely seen forms of art: graffiti. Javier Dominguez and Adam Dittman founded Native 312 Events nearly two years ago after working together on events for more than eight years. They now provide Urban Art Workshops to a variety of clientele, including collegiate groups and corporate teams. “Every time we do our Urban Art Workshop, it never fails to amaze me how people of different artistic skill sets work together to create something awesome,” Dominguez says. “It’s almost like people draw inspiration from one another and build on top of it, which is essentially how you want your team to work together to tackle problems in the workspace.” Dominguez says their Urban Art Workshop encourages teams to work together in an organic manner while flexing their creative muscles. Plus, he jokes, it doesn’t hurt that they’re able to work in some bar packages. “Our goal is to provide entertaining and immersive ways to experience Chicago and highlight some of its culture and creative circles that may be new to locals and visitors alike,” Dominguez says. “We work with some of the most highly regarded artists in Chicago.”
Get Connected
NATIVE 312 EVENTS | native312.events
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DESTINATION CHICAGO SOUTHLAND
Clockwise from left: the DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago-Alsip boasts three ballroom venues; groups at the Brookfield Zoo can gather among the animals; Aurelio’s serves the area’s top-voted pizza.
EMBRACING CHICAGO’S SOUTHERN CHARM
Chicago Southland welcomes groups of all sizes.
BY M AUR A K ELLER
LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE MEETING SCENE that offers big city amenities yet boasts affordability and convenience throughout? Chicago Southland is a unique, eclectic locale, housing diverse options for meetings and events. From state-of-the-art expo centers to trendy restaurants to revitalized warehouse buildings teeming with
Located a mere 25 minutes from Chicago with 63 diverse communities, Chicago Southland boasts ample event space—from sports facilities to outdoor venues brimming with nature aplenty. Classic meeting spaces include six full and several select service hotels, colleges and universities, and expo centers. Chicago Southland is also home to the Tinley Park Convention Center, offering 120,000 square feet, 21 versatile meeting rooms and can
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accommodate up to 6,000 people with an attached 202-room full-service hotel. The region also features a wealth of updated hotel options. Recently, the DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago-Alsip completed a threeyear renovation that updated its 193 guest rooms and suites. The lobby, public areas and meeting space were also renovated. On-site amenities include three ballrooms, which can accommodate up to 600 guests, award-win-
ning dining at Allgauer’s and the Spotlight Lounge, known for delicious drinks. Georgios Banquets, Quality Inn & Suites Conference Centre, which was voted the No. 1 Banquet Venue by the Chicago Tribune, recently underwent an entire venue renovation and features new banquet interiors and renovated rooms. Georgios can host anywhere from 100 to 1,200 guests in its 25,000-squarefoot facility. The banquet and meeting space
P H OTO S : V I S I T C H I C AG O S O U T H L A N D
character, Chicago Southland offers a unique option for events of all types.
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P H OTO S : V I S I T C H I C AG O S O U T H L A N D
BY THE NUMBERS
5,000+ HOTEL GUEST ROOMS 1,500+ ANNUAL FESTIVALS AND EVENTS 400 SQUARE MILES IN THE CHICAGO SOUTHLAND AREA 68 HOTEL/MOTEL PROPERTIES 35 GOLF COURSES 25 MINUTES TO DOWNTOWN CHICAGO 17 SELECT-SERVICE HOTELS WITH MEETING SPACE 15 BREWERIES 4-25 MILES TO MIDWAY FROM FULL-SERVICE HOTELS & 26-47 MILES TO O’HARE FROM FULL-SERVICE HOTELS 1 CONVENTION CENTER
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant pairs award-winning wines to its eclectic menu.
encompass 22,000 square feet and feature grand chandeliers, 18-foot ceilings, skylights, a private staircase and a beckoning dance floor. Located 4 miles from Midway International Airport, the Hilton Chicago/Oak Lawn & Conference Center boasts an $8.5 million renovation to its 192 guest rooms, banquet halls and meeting spaces. More than 17,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space is available. And for those looking to work some and play a lot, the newly opened Accelerate Indoor Speedway & Events in Mokena offers highspeed go-karts that participants of all ages can enjoy. Teams can take full advantage of the speedway’s Blindfold Challenge, Pit Crew Challenge and Grand Prix or embrace their inner warrior with the newly added ax throwing activities. The historic Brookfield Zoo and White Water Canyon Water Park also offer a plethora of entertainment options. If staying on-site is preferred, Chicago Southland offers a wealth of mobile entertainment options including comedians, escape rooms, game shows, casino games and team-building activities. Of course, the Chicago area is a haven for sports aficionados, so no visit to Chicago Southland would be complete without tak-
ing in a game at one of the area’s many sports venues. These stadiums can add a sports flavor to the event with a wide variety of inhouse meeting venues. For golf enthusiasts, the area’s 35 public and semiprivate golf courses are sure to please golfers of all skill levels. And horse lovers can enjoy visiting HITS Chicago Balmoral Park, a world-class international hunter/jumper equestrian center offering a VIP clubhouse overlooking competition rings and a 4,467-seat, mintcondition grandstand. And while a visit to greater Chicagoland may not conjure idyllic images of nature, think again. Chicago Southland boasts some of the best outdoor meeting spaces in the region. Outdoor gems range from 40,000 acres of scenic forest preserves to the Irons Oaks Environmental Learning Center, which offers a 1,300-square-foot conference room and 38 acres of team-building space, including a high ropes course, climbing wall and crate stacking. Other nature centers in Chicago Southland, including The Center, Monee Reservoir, Sand Ridge Nature Center, Lake Katherine Nature Center and Plum Creek Nature, Wolfe Wildlife Refuge & Bike Path offer opportunities for attendees to kayak, canoe, fish, bike or hike.
And no meeting or event would be complete without memorable dining experiences. When it comes to eateries, “the Southland” offers a wealth of options for groups of all sizes. From classic “mom and pop” pizza joints to trendy craft brewers to upscale venues that offer memorable cuisine that will keep you coming back for more. Aurelio’s, which has consistently been voted Chicago Southland’s best pizza, has been a south side tradition for over 40 years. And Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant is a unique fine dining experience, featuring award-winning wines, tasting rooms and an eclectic menu designed to perfectly pair with their extensive wine list. For those looking for a French flair to dining experiences, La Voute Bistro and Bar, features French-inspired cuisine and is located inside a renovated bank. For those looking for a true adventure, Chicago Southland features a renowned brewery trail, called the Dixie Highway Brewery Trail, which links together eight local breweries.
Get Connected CHICAGO SOUTHLAND CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU visitchicagoland.com | 708.895.8200
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There are plenty of new and noteworthy venues awaiting just across the border. BY MEGAN GOSCH
To say Wisconsin is having a moment would be an understatement. A statewide renaissance resulting in plenty of new developments, impressive renovations and entrepreneurial ventures has been years in the making and shows no sign of slowing anytime soon. “With a strong $21.6 billion industry, supporting more than 199,000 jobs, tourism continues to be a strong player in Wisconsin’s economic development story,” says Craig J. Trost, communications director for the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. “New boutique hotels are popping up across the state, drawing in travelers to new up-and-coming tourism destinations. In addition to traditional hot spots for event planners like Milwaukee, Madison and Wisconsin Dells, other Wisconsin cities are getting into the game.” And while Illinois-based planners may already consider themselves familiar with their neighbor to the north, a surge of new and regionally unique offerings outside the boardroom will keep groups pleasantly surprised. “There’s so much to see and do in Wisconsin, attendees will be amazed by what’s just beyond the awardwinning artisan craft cheese. Whether you’re looking for a James Beard award-winning chef, a fantastic outdoor recreation teambuilding experience or first-rate convention facilities, Wisconsin has everything you’re looking for and then some.” Abuzz with a new wave of tourism, world-class events (including the 2020 Democratic National Convention and the 2020 Ryder Cup) and a revitalizing building boom, there are plenty of new and noteworthy venues to discover across the border.
“Milwaukee’s got soul. We’re on fire,” says Paul Bartolotta, two-time James Beard award-winning chef, co-founder and owner of the beloved local Bartolotta Restaurants group. “We’ve got some exciting opportunities to show the world what we have to offer and here in Milwaukee, it’s all about community. We’re always pushing to be better, our best, and the energy here—it’s electric.” Though often overshadowed in years past by its fellow Midwestern metropolis just 90 miles south, or misjudged as a Rust Belt relic, the state’s largest city is buzzing and more than ready to step into the spotlight. “Our city’s deeply rooted in its heritage, but there’s a youthful, optimistic atmosphere here that’s fostering a forwardthinking culture for change,” says Lindsey McKee, communications manager for VISIT Milwaukee. “Between all of the growth and development we’ve seen in the last few years and the passion of our hardworking and friendly locals, there’s an excitement here we can’t wait to share.” In the midst of a building boom that’s transformed Milwaukee’s cityscape with major investments to its infrastructure (including the completion of a new sports and entertainment district, reimagined public spaces, the addition of 2,300 hotel rooms since 2015 and the introduction of The Hop streetcar system), the city achieved a major coup in securing the 2020 Democratic National Convention—an event that will not only showcase the city on the world stage, but leave planners with a bevy of new and revitalized options for groups and events of all sizes. Opened in August 2018, the Fiserv Forum arena, anchor of the city’s Deer District and home of the Milwaukee Bucks, has redefined the city’s west side as a top destination to live, work and play. The 714,000-square-foot arena can host everything from intimate receptions to full company meetings, banquets, trade shows and concerts for up to 18,000 in its bright concourses, modern club lounges, or on its state-of-the-art arena floor with access to the NBA’s largest video screen. For unparalleled city views, groups of up to 450 can reserve the Panorama Club overlooking the arena’s Atrium and playing bowl, complete with an outdoor patio and dedicated service kitchen.
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Fiserv Forum
VISIT MILWAUKEE
visitmilwaukee.org 17,000+ total hotel rooms in the Greater Milwaukee area 1,400 acres of beachfront throughout the city 191 distinct neighborhoods 130+ miles of bike trails 90 miles from Chicago 50+ festivals hosted each year 17 museums located in downtown Milwaukee 15 county-operated golf courses
Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel
more than 25,000 square feet of rental space, an in-house full-service caterer and unparalleled lakefront views. From Windhover Hall—featuring a dramatic full wall of windows, curvilinear forms and white marble—right down to the temperature-controlled parking garage (which has been the site of everything from fashion shows to luxury car rollouts), the museum’s inventive design makes for the ultimate artfully-framed event backdrop. The Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, a 158room dog-friendly respite, features not only
Tre Rivali, a Mediterranean-inspired eatery named for the rivalry between the city’s three founders, and nearly 10,000 square feet of meeting space, but one of the city’s largest rooftop venues, The Outsider. Serving sharable small plates and expertly crafted cocktails, the top-floor restaurant and bar has become a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. Set on the shore of Lake Michigan, one of The Bartolotta Restaurants’ most picturesque fine dining venues showcases the city’s true beauty. Harbor House guests
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Just a few blocks away, change in the Wisconsin Center District is a constant as well. The district’s 4,100-seat Miller High Life Theatre (home to the state’s largest stage) has unveiled a new bar and lounge space, much of the scalable 11,000-seat Panther Arena has been refreshed and the 300,000-square-foot convention and exhibition Wisconsin Center is expected to break ground on a proposed expansion in early 2021. Groups can also embrace the city’s past in spaces packed with local character. Nestled within the Historic Third Ward neighborhood’s Pritzlaff Building, Pritzlaff Events offers 26,000 square feet of fully restored event space that once housed a turn-of-the-century hardware wholesaler. A blend of industrial and natural elements, including the city’s signature Cream City brick, 16-foot ceilings and the building’s original vault form four distinct raw spaces, accommodating up to 1,200 guests combined. Set on a sprawling park-like 20-acre campus, the Harley-Davidson Museum offers motorcycle fans and history buffs a chance learn about the small local outfit that’s become an international icon. With nine transformable banquet halls, meeting rooms and outdoor spaces featuring a subtle industrial garage design, the campus can host trade shows and corporate galas for up to 10,000 guests (with a full campus buyout). Planners can also work with the museum to organize behind-the-scenes tours of its impressive archives, coordinate custom menus or request specific HarleyDavidson models to be displayed for a personalized touch. Groups looking for a fully immersive experience will enjoy a visit to the 219-room Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, a groundbreaking hotel celebrating all forms of art, from painting and sculpture to dance and drama. Offering nearly 12,000 square feet of flexible event space, the hotel also features a 95-seat black box theater, a resident theater troupe and three on-site galleries overseen by Saint Kate’s own curator. Each floor reflects a different art form and details like artist-designed guest rooms or in-room ukuleles invoke the hotel’s motto “invite participation and expect change,” encouraging guests to embrace their creative spirit. The city is also in no short supply of venues with a view. The Milwaukee Art Museum, including its architecturally iconic Santiago Calatrava-designed Quadracci Pavillion, boasts over 30,000 works of art,
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can take in skyline and lakeshore views as sailboats bob in the harbor while savoring fresh seafood at the bright, New Englandstyle restaurant. The Captain’s Room, a private dining space overlooking the lake, can
accommodate up to 65 guests. Of course, no trip to Milwaukee would be complete without sampling a local brew. Lakefront Brewery serves up awardwinning cheese curds and the nation’s first
Elkhart Lake’s Osthoff Resort
“Driving into Elkhart Lake feels like you’re in an entirely new place—it’s like you’ve just discovered this amazing natural retreat and your shoulders just start to drop,” says Kathleen Eickhoff, Elkhart Lake Tourism’s executive director. “Our biggest calling card is Elkhart Lake itself. It’s the jewel of our destination because its waters are so deep and spring-fed that it becomes this bright, Mediterranean blue-green retreat.” In fact, it was the lake’s clear waters and mystical healing qualities that attracted the Potawatomi Indians (the region’s first settlers), the German entrepreneurs who would build some of the village’s most
popular establishments, and draws travelers from near and far to this day. Home to three resorts, each boasting precious beachfront property, the village has become a popular year-round escape from the bustle of city life for families, associations and corporate retreats. The historic AAA Four Diamond Osthoff Resort, one of the Midwest’s top-ranked properties, offers 38,000 square feet of function space for groups of up to 1,400 and a laid-back mix of team-building activities. From workshops at the on-site L’ecole de la Maison Cooking School and yoga classes with the Aspira Spa to interactive scavenger hunts “carefully designed team activities offer
certified gluten-free beer among other local favorites in a traditional German beer hall atmosphere. Full hall rentals are available as well as one of the city’s most popular, and comedic, brewery tours.
challenges for everyELKHART LAKE one and are a fun TOURISM way to build trust and elkhartlake.com create a comfort level THE OSTHOFF among groups,” says RESORT Osthoff Marketing osthoffmeetings.com Manager Laura Otten. The Osthoff’s team 1894 year the Village can also arrange of Elkhart Lake was charter bus services incorporated for groups looking 967 year-round to explore off-site— residents settled at the edge of the Kettle Moraine ~350 total guest rooms State Forest, Elkhart 150 miles from Chicago Lake offers plenty 120 feet deep (Elkhart of trails to hike, bike, Lake is the fourth cross-country ski and deepest in the state) more—though walkability is one of the 3 distinctive resorts village’s trademark comforts. “There are no streetlights, no traffic. Most people don’t drive to get around and visitors love it. They may already spend an hour in the car just getting to work, so to skip the stress of traffic and parking is a huge draw that keeps visitors relaxed and present,” says Eickhoff. Though most attractions and amenities are within walking distance, the village has also become an international hot spot for car lovers as the home of Road America. Before construction of the 640acre motorsports complex (with one of America’s longest road racing circuits), Elkhart Lake was the site of some of the country’s first open road races. Today, annual events attract global visitors, including manufacturers like Porsche and BMW, motorsport enthusiasts and a barrage of affiliated business travelers. Road America regularly hosts private and corporate events and offers dozens of group activities including paintball, geocaching and disc golf. Of course, guests can also hone their driving skills behind the wheel with off-roading, high-speed kart racing and a Driving Olympics competition.
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Above: Door County’s Cana Island lighthouse; below: Northern Haus
deliers. Set on 30 picturesque acres, the venue also offers a covered porch, 24-foot bar and mingling space, vaulted loft and a tranquil backdrop for outdoor events. Between waterfront resorts, secluded B&Bs, downtown hotels and quaint rentals, Door County also boasts roughly 40 group-friendly lodging properties with a total of 4,896 rooms, including the
recently renovated Landmark Resort and Westwood Shores Waterfront Resort. And with a traditional postmeeting fish boil, a visit to one of the region’s many parks or historic lighthouses, or a tour of local lavender farms or famous cherry orchards, groups can immerse themselves in some of Door County’s historic pastimes and unique cultural trademarks.
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Stretching more than 70 miles long and surrounded by water on three sides, Door County’s 34 outlying islands, 300 miles of shoreline and rich maritime history make for an idyllic event destination in an enchanting coastal atmosphere. “From full-service resorts to smaller, more intimate venues that are a true Door County retreat or the region’s abundance of activities, attractions and natural beauty to be enjoyed once the meeting lets out, Door County is an ideal small market meeting place,” says Laura Bradley, Door County Visitor Bureau marketing and sales manager. With nearly 100,000 square feet of meeting space throughout the region, Door County’s local venues include museums, art galleries, golf courses, renovated barns, orchards, historic banquet halls and theaters that can accommodate groups of up to 400 guests. Completed in 2015, the DOOR COUNTY 6,000-squareVISITOR BUREAU foot Hesly Center doorcounty.com/ for Leadership meetings-and-groups Development (housed in a reno8-15 million pounds of vated historic barn cherries harvested in Door located on 8 beautiCounty each year ful acres) is an ideal 23,000 acres of preserved fit for executive land across state and county retreats and corpoparks and nature preserves rate events, accom1851 year Door County was modating up to 36 founded guests classroomstyle, while the new 245 miles from Chicago 2,650-square-foot 700 the approximate yearDonald & Carol round population of Door Kress Pavilion and County’s Washington Island Egg Harbor Library 11 historic lighthouses offers meeting space for up to 250 in its second-floor Great Hall. The bright, light-filled venue located in downtown Egg Harbor, features wraparound porches and bay and orchard views. Northern Haus, Door County’s newest venue accommodates up to 300 guests and features a modern luxe farmhousestyle aesthetic with soaring 36-foot ceilings, warm exposed beams and industrial chan-
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GREATER GREEN BAY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
greenbay.com
105,000+ residents of the City of Green Bay 4,500+ total hotel rooms 1919 year the 13-time National Champion Green Bay Packers team was founded 1764 year the Green Bay Area was founded ~200 miles from Chicago
Above: Green Bay Packers fans enjoy a traditional tailgate; below: LODGE KOHLER’S Taverne in the Sky dining room
As the home of the Green Bay Packers, the only not-for-profit major league professional team communally owned by its fans, it’s safe to say this city’s filled with hometown pride. But that community connection is fueled by more than a love for green and gold. Deeply rooted in its industrial beginnings and homegrown traditions (a proper Old-Fashioned order and supper club etiquette are an art form here), “the city’s embraced its past and present with a renaissance of reimagined historic spaces and new world-class venues,” says Brenda Krainik, the Greater Green Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau’s director of marketing and communications. The city boasts nearly 327,000 square feet of meeting and event space with another 127,000 square feet expected upon the completion of the new Brown County
Expo Center in early 2021. Just across the street, the legendary Lambeau Field offers a diverse suite of event spaces. From the expansive Atrium to the new 13,242-square-foot Johnsonville Tailgate Village (designed to reflect the stadium’s look and feel) or MVP Box 4039, an intimate space with an impressive view overlooking the stadium’s hallowed bowl, attendees can embrace Lambeau’s infamous gameday spirit at Green Bay’s most well-known landmark. The iconic stadium also anchors the city’s new 45-acre Titletown District. The new build has become a destination for locals and visitors to play, stay, eat and relax, featuring a public park, winter skating rink and tubing hill. Titletown is also home to the popular craft Hinterland Brewery with private dining space for up
to 300 guests, as well as the world-class Four Diamond LODGE KOHLER. Groups at the 144-room luxury property can enjoy panoramic views and locally inspired dishes in the fifth-floor Taverne in the Sky or enlist the hotel’s culinary team to cater an in-room tailgate party just 100 yards from Lambeau. The hotel also offers an on-site spa emphasizing the healing powers of water and progressive treatments including its pioneering acufacial. The 80,000-square-foot KI Convention Center and 241-room Hyatt Regency Green Bay hotel offer groups easy access to top downtown attractions while some of the city’s less traditional venues offer groups unique immersive experiences. Guests at the Automobile Gallery & Event Center can mingle amongst an impressive collection of vintage cars housed in a former Denil Cadillac dealership and events at the National Railroad Museum allow guests to wander its historic rail cars, including the world’s largest steam locomotive. And nowhere is the city’s collision of old and new celebrated more than the revitalized Hotel Northland. Originally opened in 1924 as the state’s largest hotel, the 160room property has been fully restored to its former glory, blending modern amenities with original 1920s architecture and nods to the city’s heritage throughout the property and its 11,000 square feet of event space. Accommodating up to 160 guests, the Crystal Ballroom features high ceilings, floorto-ceiling windows and original chandeliers, while the overhanging balcony (a popular prefunction space) features the building’s original tile. Groups can unwind or gear up for some friendly competition in The Alley— the hotel’s new private event space outfitted with cozy lounges, a full bar, billiards table, shuffleboard and two-lane bowling alley—or indulge in a signature Wisconsin Old Fashioned and upscale dishes with local twist at the stately Walnut Room.
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Often compared to Portland, Austin and Brooklyn, Eau Claire has become the ultimate hot spot to discover the authentic Midwest indie experience, and with the opening of the brand-new $60 million Pablo Center at the Confluence, planners can embrace the city’s story of creativity and ingenuity in the heart of its downtown district. The arts-focused facility (seating up
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to 1,200 theater-style) has become Eau Claire’s top venue for concerts, plays and art shows as well as meetings and conventions with its large performance spaces, galleries, recording studios and the Visit Eau Claire Experience Center—all available for private events. “In Eau Claire our sweet spot for groups lies between 50 and 500 guests and we have a variety of traditional
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Clockwise from top: The Oxbow Hotel; Artisan Forge Studios; Visit Eau Claire’s Experience Center
and uniquely nontraditional venues to help make events extra special,” says Visit Eau Claire Executive Director Linda John. The Lismore, a DoubleTree by Hilton hotel is a 112-room conference hotel that offers up to 14,000 square feet of meeting space and accommodates up to 620 guests, while The Brewing Projekt, housed in a former factory, is one of the city’s most popular unconventional event spaces featuring hand-laid hardwood floors and framed riverfront views. Located in the city’s Cannery District, the microbrewery boasts VISIT EAU a rooftop patio, up to 20 CLAIRE visiteauclaire.com craft brews on tap and can accommodate up to 2,200 total area hotel 200 guests theater-style. rooms The city has also become a hub of artis175,000 square feet tic endeavor. “We are of meeting and event an artful community, space citywide with creativity coming 2007 year Eau Claire through in the form of became the Kubb music, theater, murals Capital of North America and culinary creations,” 320 miles from Chicago says John. Insta-worthy 18 bridges connect “the murals dot the city and nearly 60 sculptures City of Bridges” from local and international artists make up Sculpture Tour Eau Claire, the country’s second largest of its kind. In Eau Claire’s budding Uptown neighborhood, Artisan Forge Studios visitors will find an art gallery and studio space for nearly 50 makers as well as outdoor displays and garage murals, while at Banbury Place, a tire factory-turned-creative hub, guests can take cooking classes, browse artist studios and sip locally roasted coffee. Home to a number of local galleries displaying the work of local and regional painters, ceramicists, glass artists and more, visitors can also enjoy plenty of live music events at venues like The Oxbow Hotel. Opened in part by Justin Vernon (the local musician behind Bon Iver and other musical projects), the 30-room boutique property’s on-site restaurant The Lakely and its Gallery space can host yoga classes, mixology workshops, art installations and more when not showcasing musical talents from across the country. Meeting-goers with time to spare can also enjoy a walk or bike ride along the trails of the Chippewa Valley or relax with a game of Kubb (a lawn game so popular in Eau Claire it’s taught in local schools) in River Prairie Park.
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Although “The Waterpark Capital of the World” may not already be synonymous with meetings and events, the region’s aquatic thrills have proven to be a major draw for attendees. “Planners consistently tell us hosting meetings and events in Wisconsin Dells helps boost attendance. We’re centrally located, easily accessible and family-oriented conventiongoers are also more likely to attend a meeting where they can invite the family along, which is music to the ears of event planners,” says Kyra Popp, the Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau’s assistant director of sales. With the recent expansion of the Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Wisconsin Dells, the region can easily accommodate anything from intimate retreats to large conferences. Offering complimentary Wi-Fi, parking and a total of 212,000 square feet of flexible convention space across 45 meeting rooms, including a 52,000-square-foot ballroom, the resort is now the largest hotel convention center in the state and a convenient spot for large groups. The 90,000-square-foot column-free multipurpose Wisconsin Dells Center is a popular space for sporting competitions, while the destination Sundara Inn & Spa, which recently completed a 40,000-squarefoot expansion, offers planners a more serene
Left: The Pavilion at Cold Water Canyon; right: Vennebu Hill
setting for small meetings and corporate retreats. Also home to several venues with a view, Wisconsin Dells’ Vennebu Hill, a rustic renovated barn overlooking the Baraboo Bluffs and Wisconsin River Valley can accommodate up to 350 guests while the 70-yearold Pavilion at Cold Water Canyon, a historic stone venue accessible only by boat, can accommodate up to 100 guests in the truly unique space. Groups can explore the area with a scenic boat tour to view the region’s iconic sandstone bluffs (which initially drew some of the region’s first visitors), take a trolley ride to some of the area’s most unique wineries, book a farm-to-table tour of the New Life Lavender and Cherry Farm or enlist the help of the CVB’s professional team. “Our team can assist with anything from grant applications, bid processes and site visits to day-of event services like giveaway bags, sample itineraries and referrals for free-time activities to ensure attendees always have a memorable time,” says Popp.
WISCONSIN DELLS VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU
meetinthedells.com
4 million+ annual visitors 500,000+ total square feet of area meeting space 8,000 hotel rooms ~6,000 permanent residents 200+ waterslides in the area holding 16+ million gallons of water 200 miles from Chicago 19.5 square miles in size
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Left: Betty Lou Cruises; right: Olbrich Botanical Gardens
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DESTINATION MADISON
visitmadison.com
10,000+ guest rooms in Dane County 240+ miles of hiking and biking trails 122 miles from Chicago 19 direct flight destinations including national hubs like Chicago, Detroit and Denver 12 public beaches 5 miles from Dane County Regional Airport to downtown Madison 5 area lakes: Mendota, Monona, Wingra, Waubesa, Kegonsa
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Located between Lakes Mendota and Monona, “Wisconsin’s capital city—consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the country—exudes a friendly and quirky vibe that immediately makes visitors feel at home,” says John Leinen, Destination Madison’s vice president of sales. Madison’s vibrant year-round community, melding equal parts college-town energy and entrepreneurial spirit, embraces an active lifestyle, neighborhood festivals, food events and live music performances no matter the weather. And as home of the Wisconsin Badgers and the current host of the annual Reebok CrossFit Games, the city’s no stranger to energetic visitors and action-packed major events, leaving planners with a wide range of event venues and unique activities for groups to enjoy. Planners can think outside the box with unique venues like the Overture Center for the Arts, a state-of-the-art performing arts center and art gallery, or the research and innovation-focused Discovery Building or opt for cityscape views at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright (a University of Wisconsin – Madison alumnus) for complete accessibility and civic enjoyment just two
blocks from the State Capitol, the Center features public promenades, meeting rooms with striking lake views and an impressive 68,000-square-foot cityscape rooftop garden. The Alliant Energy Center is also ideally suited for expositions, banquets, conventions, meetings, concerts and sporting events. The 164-acre campus housing five versatile venues offers ample meeting space, parking, a connected hotel, customized catering options and dedicated event staff support. And with Destination Madison’s convenient new “One City. One Contract.” program, planners can work with nearly a dozen area hotels under a single contract to ease frustrations in room block booking. Postmeeting, guests can stroll the walkable city’s downtown district to shop at local boutiques, dine at one of several James Beard Award-winning eateries, enjoy the city’s abundant green spaces, wander the largest producers-only farmers’ market in the country or explore the city on a Madison BCycle, the city’s fleet of electronic bikes. Visitors can also go behind the scenes at some of the city’s most popular local landmarks with Destination Madison’s curated Essential Madison Experiences, including a Betty Lou Cruise that takes guests on a two-hour tour of Lake Mendota or Lake Monona or a stop at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens where guests can learn the story of the gardens and sip a cocktail crafted from garden ingredients.
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Whistling Straits
DESTINATION KOHLER
destinationkohler.com
1912 year The Village of Kohler was incorporated 21,000 square feet of total conference space ~2,000 Village of Kohler residents 500+ acres encompassed by the River Wildlife preserve 4.5 square miles encompassed by The Village of Kohler
From John Michael Kohler’s adaption of a cast iron horse trough came not only the founding of the multibillion-dollar Kohler Co., but also the building of a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond hotel and the creation of one of the country’s first planned communities (the Village of Kohler), designed for beauty and function by the famed Olmsted Brothers firm. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 241-room American Club, which was originally built as the first dormitory for Kohler Co.’s factory workers, now operates as a full-service boutique hotel that’s preserved the property’s original charm and continues to innovate with new services and amenities. Planners can work with more than a dozen Destination Kohler venues—including a rustic fieldstone barn overlooking the resort’s golf
Lake Geneva’s 21-mile Shore Path
Just over the Illinois border, Lake Geneva is not only a year-round resort destination, but a prime meeting place for groups looking to relax and recharge. “Planners find their attendance is much better in Lake Geneva than a ‘square box hotel meeting room’ because we’re a destination with so many unique opportunities. From Four Diamond resorts to historic mansions, our local venues personalize your stay to ensure your experience feels like a vacation,” says VISIT Lake Geneva Group Sales Manager Susan Smolarek. Some of the region’s most popular properties offer world-class amenities as well as meeting space. The 640-room AAA Four Diamond Grand Geneva Resort & Spa offers a full-service salon and spa and a water park hotel as well as The Forum, a conference
courses and Lake Michigan—award-winning chefs, and have access to full conference planning support while visitors can indulge in rejuvenating hydrotherapy treatments at the Forbes Five Star Kohler Waters Spa. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak, canoe, cross-country ski and pheasant hunt in the nearby River Wildlife wilderness preserve or participate in team-building activities including ropes courses, zip lining, culinary programming and sailing, organized through the Kohler Experiential Learning Center. But Destination Kohler’s biggest draw may be its four award-winning championship golf courses, including the world-class Whistling Straits sculpted along two miles of lake shoreline, which will draw thousands of visitors for the 2020 Ryder Cup.
center with space for up to 1,800 guests theaterstyle—the largest in the region. And complete with 10,000 square feet of function space featuring fairway and lake views, the Geneva National Resort & Club can accommodate groups of up to 500. Resort guests can enjoy championship golf courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Lee VISIT LAKE Trevino or team-building GENEVA activities ranging from kayakvisitlakegeneva.com ing to pallet painting. Dotted with Gilded Age 155,000 total square mansions (many built by feet of meeting space wealthy Chicagoans), Lake 2,300 total guest rooms Geneva’s historic properties also make for unique 90 miles from Chicago event space filled with local 15 hotels, resorts and character. The Baker House mansions Mansion features 1885 flair, panoramic lake views and English-style gardens while the Maxwell Mansion boasts an 1880s Apothecary Bar, croquet lawn, wraparound deck and its own speakeasy. Postmeeting adventures may include a journey on the peaceful 21-mile Lake Geneva Shore Path that encompasses Geneva Lake and takes visitors past some of the region’s most impressive mansion estates or sightseeing on one of Lake Geneva Cruise Line’s daily tours. Groups can mix and mingle as they take part in classes at the Lake Geneva School of Cooking or enjoy year-round outdoor fun, from biking and fishing to skiing and rock climbing. And no matter the season, thrill-seeking visitors can tour Lake Geneva Canopy Tours’ high ropes and zip line courses for an unforgettable experience.
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Industry Update RENOVATIONS 26
PEOPLE NEWS
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SNAPSHOTS 30
OUTLOOK: GOOD
CWT Meetings & Events’ 2020 Future Trends Report projects growth in the industry. RESEARCH COURTESY OF CWT
“The need for live events is becoming more relevant than ever before,” says Kurt Ekert, president and CEO of CWT, with up to 30 percent of marketing budgets expected to be spent on live events in 2020. “Face-to-face meetings are critical to establishing connections between brands and their customers, and employees and their companies, especially during times of uncertainty. Knowing how to manage risks globally while putting together an authentic and measurable experience for all participants will be key for success in this space in the coming year and beyond.” In its eighth installment, CWT Meetings & Events’ 2020 Future Trends Report identifies key developments in the industry in 2020, including:
PEOPLE PROFILE 32
BY THE NUMBERS AVERAGE LEAD TIME
59 days PERCENTAGE OF SPEND ON FOOD & BEVERAGE
42%
AVERAGE MEETING DURATION
3 days USE OF ATTENDEE REGISTRATION WEBSITES
61%
COST PER ATTENDEE PER DAY
2019: $234 2020: $253 (+8% year-over-year)
AVERAGE GROUP SIZE Digitalization: Mobile devices are adding new functionality with apps to create a higher degree of personalization for attendees.
Shifting demographics: Millennials are poised to be the largest group of business travelers from 2024 and onward. Generation Z is right on their heels and can claim to have never known a world without the internet, smartphones and apps. This younger group is all about experience, authenticity and participation.
Authenticity: People are craving experiences that feel authentic, where travelers can immerse themselves in a destination like locals. Growing attraction of off-the-beaten track destinations.
Socially and environmentally responsible incentives also rank high for 2020, fueled by the next generation that views climate change as an increasingly pressing issue.
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ATTENDEES There continues to be a focus on the impact of the millennial generation (aka Generation Y, those born between 1980 and 1995). The influence of this generation will continue to strengthen the industry as they are expected to form the largest group of business travelers across the world from 2024 onward. Centennials (aka Generation Z, those born from 1996 onward) are starting to enter the workforce. According to Mediakix Research, while their influence, due to their age, is so far limited, this will rapidly change over the next decade as their population reaches 2.56 billion globally by 2020.
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INFOGRAPHIC
Destinations on the Rise
GLOBAL
The global meetings and events industry is estimated at $840 billion and growing. “The overall growth trajectory in the meetings and events industry is rising at a steady 8 percent rate, which is encouraging,” says Derek Sharp, senior vice president and managing director, CWT Meetings & Events.
NORTH AMERICA
Demand for meetings and events in North America is continuing to increase, but the pace of growth has fallen. Despite these headwinds, the U.S. economy continues to be strong with event sizes rising, including many companies in the tech sector that have moved to consolidate their smaller meetings into larger events. “More than ever, political events have a direct impact on companies’ quarterly and annual outlooks. Some industry segments are pulling back, such as agriculture because of the trade situation, and are being a bit more cautious,” says Tony Wagner, vice president, Americas & South Pacific Regions of CWT Meetings & Events.
Destinations on the rise are locations offering better value rates than firsttier cities. They are also becoming more attractive due to an increase in facilities including new hotels and venues.
Top 10 Cities 1. NEW YORK, NY 2. SAN FRANCISCO, CA 3. CHICAGO, IL 4. ATLANTA, GA 5. TORONTO, CANADA 6. SAN DIEGO, CA 7. SEATTLE, WA 8. ORLANDO, FL 9. DALLAS/FORT WORTH, TX 10. LAS VEGAS, NV
CREATIVE EVENTS CWT identified 20 microtrends that are set to shape the year ahead when planning an event with a creative twist. Here are 5:
Dating apps for networking: Tinder-style apps will help event attendees break the ice.
Diversity: Greater diversity of presenters can bring an inspiring new slant to content and connect with the full range of attendees.
Venues that tell a story: Unusual venues that reflect the aims of the event are booming— think spectacular views, historic spaces, or even an underwater event.
First is best in seating: Early arrivals can grab the plush, expansive armchairs close to the speakers, while space at the back is for highboy chairs and stools.
Instagrammable cuisine: Food must be Instagram-worthy— shared in real time to an audience of hundreds or even thousands at once—to pass muster in 2020.
Read the full report at cwt-meetings-events.com/futuretrends. IL.MEETINGSMAGS.COM
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REGIONAL NEWS
RENOVATIONS»
JW Marriott Chicago Redesigns in honor of 10-year anniversary Found in the heart of Chicago’s financial district, the JW Marriott Chicago will complete a full redesign of all 610 guest rooms, hotel corridors and its executive lounge by spring 2020 in honor of the property’s upcoming 10-year anniversary. Located in the Daniel Burnham-designed Continental & Commercial National Bank building, the hotel blends Burnham’s famous architectural style with its modern surroundings and the property’s transformation will include nods to the building’s storied past. “Harkening back to the building’s 1914 origin, which was constructed during an iconic period in design, we want to honor the influence early Pullman rail cars had on travel accommodations in Chicago and beyond,” says General Manager Hassan El Neklawy. Under the design of Looney & Associates, the transformation will incorporate a luxury rail car motif utilizing layered metal finishes, dark wood tones, plush woven materials and saturated pops of color reminiscent of the Pullman era. “Working with such an iconic hotel, we wanted to redesign the guest rooms to tell the story of the building’s timeless sophistication,” says Gina Tomczak, associate managing director for Looney & Associates. “It’s only fitting that a Chicago hotel and especially JW Marriott Chicago assume these design inspirations, as George Pullman was once synonymous with luxury travel at the turn of the century.”
Chicago Marriott Schaumburg
ROOF on theWit
Chicago’s First Rooftop Deck Unveils Renovation ROOF on theWit, one of Chicago’s most popular destinations and the city’s first rooftop deck set atop theWit Hotel, has unveiled a new open-air space with its recent renovation. The ROOF’s new deck features lush, comfortable seating, contemporary art The Gallery—a bold retractable roof designed by Koo Architecture with an Artisan Wall made up of nine LED screens to create an immersive
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living narrative day and night. Featuring panoramic views of the Chicago River and the city skyline, the rejuvenated ROOF blends Spanish and Moroccan elements to recreate a chic Mediterranean vibe, rich colors and a monochromatic mosaic-tiled floor to create a grand entrance suspended 27 stories above the city.
Chicago Marriott Schaumburg Completes Multimillion-Dollar Renovation The Chicago Marriott Schaumburg recently completed a $22 million renovation to revitalize the hotel’s guest experience from check-in to checkout, including the property’s meeting spaces, lobby and Great Room.
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InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile Hotel
color palette and stunning views of the Des Plaines River and Allison Woods to each guest room and event space. The revamped meeting and event spaces feature new carpeting, contemporary light fixtures and electronic reader boards and door signs. The property’s Grand Ballroom has been upgraded with a state-ofthe-art sound and lighting system. Phase two of the property’s renovation, which will take place in early 2020, will include a complete revamp of the property’s award-winning restaurants, Allgauer’s on the Riverfront and Frank’s Place, to develop a modern aesthetic while maintaining the historic roots of the North Shore hotel.
P H OTO S : C H I C AG O M A R R I OT T S C H AU M B U R G ; R O O F O N T H E W I T; I N T E R C O N T I N E N TA L C H I C A G O M A G N I F I C E N T M I L E
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile Hotel Unveils Multimillion-Dollar Restoration “We are elated to provide guests with a distinctly enhanced and welcoming destination in the heart of Schaumburg, whether they are locals or visiting from out of town. As the most newly renovated hotel in the area, it brings us great pride to invite everyone to enjoy a fresh take on modern amenities and style just outside of downtown Chicago,” says General Manager Andreo Girardi. The renovation, which refreshed the hotel’s restaurant and bar with an elevated food and beverage menu and state-of-the-art health club, also included the unveiling of a new MClub Lounge offering MClub members 24/7 access to the exclusive space (designed to promote productivity) and premium concierge services. The balance of nature and industry inspired the hotel’s design, juxtaposing materials such as concrete, velvet, red oak wood and hickory
throughout the property to weave concepts of texture, rhythm and repetition. The redesign also highlights softer textures and natural materials with platform space dividers, illuminated screen walls, vertical and horizontal partitions, interior framing windows and niche seating to encourage guests to socialize.
Hilton Chicago Northbrook Unveils Multimillion-Dollar Renovation The Hilton Chicago Northbrook recently completed phase one of a multimillion-dollar renovation with a comprehensive refresh to its 20,000 flexible square feet of meeting and event space and 249 guest rooms. The renovation, inspired by the idea of creating a “home away from home” atmosphere, included the addition of a calming, neutral
The iconic InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile Hotel has unveiled the first phase of a multimillion-dollar refresh to its Gatsby-era meeting and event spaces. With over 45,000 square feet of meeting and event space, phase one of the hotel’s restoration project included a refresh to several of the hotel’s historic ballrooms and event prefunction space. Phase two of the project is set to be completed by early 2020. Known for its architectural beauty, the renovation of the hotel (which is on the National Register of Historic Places) bridges modernday meeting aesthetics with the hotel’s original historic design. The original design and fixtures of the event spaces—including the Grand Ballroom’s Bacarrat crystal chandelier and hand-painted murals—remain, and now feature stylish neutral tones and plenty of natural light.
VENUE NEWS»
900 NORTH MICHIGAN SHOPS LAUNCHES TOPGOLF SWING SUITE A new Topgolf Swing Suite, the newest extension of the Topgolf brand, has opened adjacent to Aster Hall at 900 North Michigan Shops, a seven-level experiential retail destination in the heart of Chicago.
The Suite, which includes three simulator bays, each seating up to eight guests, offers a variety of virtual games from baseball pitching to signature Topgolf experiences and a plush lounge space for golfers and nongolfers alike.
Exclusive to this location is a VIP area available for private events and parties. Menu items include slider versions of Aster Hall favorites as well as shareable snacks and sweet treats including Small Cheval milkshakes.
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REGIONAL NEWS
VENUE NEWS»
NEW VENUE OPENS AT LINCOLN PARK ZOO
PEOPLE NEWS»
Sable Kitchen & Bar Appoints New Executive Chef With more than 20 years of culinary experience, Kevin Atkinson has been appointed executive chef of Sable Kitchen & Bar. Atkinson has gained experience in both approachable refined dining at local eateries including the Omni Chicago Hotel, State and Lake Chicago Tavern at theWit Hotel and ETA Restaurant + Bar and Streeterville Social at the Loews Downtown Chicago Hotel. At Sable’s helm, the North Carolina native will reinvent a menu of contemporary American shared plates made from seasonal and sustainable ingredients.
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Ravinia BMO Club
Ravinia Opens New Rooftop Destination Ravinia, home to one of the oldest music festivals in North America, has opened a new gathering place. The newly built hospitality space, the BMO Club, is located on the rooftop of the Experience Center building on the North Lawn. “BMO has been a long and proud partner of Ravinia, as well as an advocate of the festival’s inspiring education programs, providing funding and support for many years,” says Daniela O’Leary-Gill, executive vice president and U.S. chief operating officer of BMO Financial Corp. “We are excited to have the BMO Club add to the vibrant scene Ravinia attendees have come to expect, with small dishes created from farm-fresh ingredients and artisanal refreshments all in the perfect space overlooking the picturesque Ravinia grounds.” The BMO Club, which is available for small private events, can accommodate more than 170 guests in addition to bar seating. A variety of refreshments and small plate options available concentrate on farm-to-table and other locally-sourced foods, including fresh baked goods and more. “Of course, when it comes to opening a space like this, the three keywords are food, beverage, and ambience, but the old real estate joke about the three keywords being location, location, location, are also satisfied by the BMO Club,” says executive chef Michael Tsonton. “Meeting great friends for live music under the stars over drinks and fresh eats? That’s a recipe for success.”
theWit Hotel Announces New Director of Restaurants & Beverage Nestled in the heart of Chicago, theWit Hotel has appointed Piers Smyth as director of restaurants and beverage. With over 18 years of experience in hospitality, the Georgia native brings a unique perspective and genuine Southern hospitality to his new role. Most recently, Smyth was the director of food and beverage at Hotel Julian and its steakbar, About Last Knife, where he managed all food and beverage operations, menu development and hospitality training. Smyth is also a seasoned mixologist with numerous accolades. For the new beverage
program, Smyth plans to use compound infusions to keep drinks simple and approachable by nature, and complex in flavor.
Marriott Marquis Chicago Gains New Executive Chef Jack Delby, a Chicago native
with over 26 years of culinary experience, has been appointed executive chef of the Marriott Marquise Chicago and its two culinary concepts, Woven & Bound and Showroom Food Hall. In this new role, Delby will be responsible for all facets at Marquis Banquets, including the culinary direction and leadership of the hotel’s restaurant concepts, room service, seasonal menu updates and strategic food and beverage programming.
P H O T O S : R AV I N I A F E S T I VA L
Bird’s Eye Bar & Grill, a new dining and private event venue, has opened at the Lincoln Park Zoo. The 6,000-square-foot eatery located above the gift shop, previously known as Café at Wild Things!, features a colorful aesthetic combining natural elements with casual, inviting décor and a spacious outdoor pavilion, giving guests a birds eye view of the zoo grounds. A retractable roof allows for guests to enjoy the view no matter the weather. The new venue is available private events, from family gatherings to corporate functions, both day and night and can accommodate groups up to 200 seated and 450 for a reception-style event. Catering options vary from à la carte service and festive picnic packages to reception menus featuring carving stations and a variety of tailored buffets and specialty stations.
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P H O T O S : R AV I N I A F E S T I VA L
New Hires at Meet Chicago Northwest Meet Chicago Northwest, the official destination marketing organization for Chicago’s northwest suburbs, has selected Roz Dixon and Sarah Bessler to join the organization as account executives. “We are very excited to have Roz and Sarah, they are both dynamic sales professionals with strong hospitality sales experience. We are confident they will execute our sales strategies and contribute to the success of our region,” says Dave Parulo, president of Meet Chicago Northwest. Dixon will manage association and corporate accounts in the U.S. and Canada east of the Mississippi River. Dixon is pursuing an M.B.A. through Herzing University and received her B.B.A. in advertising and marketing management from Northwood University. Bessler will manage association and corporate accounts in the U.S. and Canada west of the Mississippi River and Wisconsin. Bessler is a graduate from Kendall College’s School of Hospitality with an emphasis in meeting and event planning.
RACVB Appointments & Accomplishments Nick Povalitis , The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (RACVB) director of sports development, recently received the tourism industry’s highest individual professional certification—the Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) designation. The CDME program, the only integrated executive program specifically designed for destination management and marketing professionals, prepares destination organization professionals to leverage their experience and to apply their knowledge with a focus on leadership, productivity and implementing business strategies.
“Nick has played a key role in bringing some of the region’s biggest sporting events and experiences to the region this year, including the Fred VanVleet Jurassic Park events and Fan Fest and later this year the 2019 ITTF North American Olympic Table Tennis Trials,” says RACVB President/CEO John Groh. “The CDME program helps prepare Nick for his current, and future work, within the destination marketing industry and our organization. The designation indicates to others that he has completed a rigorous educational program and sets him apart as one of about 400 people worldwide who have achieved this level of educational accomplishment.” RACVB’s Board of Directors and Charitable Foundation Board of Directors have also announced the recent election of new officers and board members, and the reappointment and re-election of continuing board members. The RACVB board elected Jennifer Furst as chair, Todd Cagnoni as vice chair, Tim Myers as treasurer and Einar Forsman as secretary to serve a one-year term as officers of the board. Furst is president of Furst Staffing, Cagnoni is city administrator with the City of Rockford, Myers is vice president/general manager of WIFR-TV and Forsman is president and CEO of Rockford Chamber of Commerce. Mike Nelson, Noel Nickel, John Penney, Carol Schuster and Darrell Snorek, vice president have also recently joined the RACVB board for a three-year term.
Parks will develop and execute all aspects of First Hospitality’s people strategy, including talent management, organizational development, culture transformation, thought leadership, executive coaching and more.
The Ivy Hotel Welcomes Industry-Leading Hotelier The Ivy Hotel has appointed Wayne Leming as Chicago regional director of operations. With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Leming will oversee all aspects of property management and lead the operational teams at the Ivy Hotel and three sister hotels on the North Side of Chicago in his new position. “There isn’t a better person than Wayne Leming to lead four of broughtonHOTELS’ properties in Chicago,” says Larry Broughton CEO of broughtonHOTELS. “Leming has a strong passion for hospitality which he showcases by developing top talent, restructuring, and building strong teams. With his experience and longevity within the industry, Leming will lead the Ivy Hotel to ensure every guest’s stay is memorable and thoughtful.” Leming has overseen multiple renovations and two new hotel builds, has been awarded GM of the Quarter and GM of the Year, and has led properties to secure Hotel of the Year and Sales Team of the Year awards.
First Hospitality Adds New Member to Leadership Team
JW Marriott Chicago Appoints New Sales Executive
First Hospitality has appointed Janice Parks to the role of chief human resources officer and to its executive leadership team. Parks brings 14 years of experience in human resources as well as a formal education in executive leadership to the role. “Putting people first and building an environment of mutual respect is a part of our cultural foundation,” says David Duncan, president of First Hospitality. “The addition of the chief human resources officer position further demonstrates this commitment.”
The JW Marriott Chicago has appointed Kelli Tretina as destination sales executive. With a range of operations, sales and multi-brand experience, Tretina will work to increase hotel earnings through group events with area sales teams, effective site visits, and strategic group placement. Tretina previously worked with the Ritz Carlton in Fort Lauderdale as the senior catering executive and has held positions in catering sales and as an assistant event operations manager.
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SNAPSHOTS HOSPITALITY FEST 2019
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Hospitality Fest 2019 On Aug. 29, nearly 600 corporate and association planners, hoteliers, general managers, sourcing specialists and Magnificent Mile Association members attended the fourth annual Hospitality Fest at the Millennium Knickerbocker Chicago to network and explore new industry offerings. Attendees connected with local vendors to learn about event venue updates, new private dining offerings and team-building activities, scope out new rental options and sample Chicagoland catering options. Chicago Blackhawks anthem singer Jim Cornelison sang the national anthem to start the event’s networking reception and guests toured the hotel, which was sprinkled with Al Capone-, flapper- and Hugh Hefner-themed interactive elements to celebrate the venue’s past as the home of a former casino and speakeasy run by the Capone family, the site of a gangster hangout and a property formerly owned by Hefner. hospitalityfest.com
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1. Entertainment was provided by Dance Spectacular Productions. 2. Alicja Events, Ltd. talent brought the hotel’s history as a former home of the Playboy Towers to life. 3. Cindi Webber and Stacey Combrzynski. 4. Nora Gaughan and Dillon Elkin. 5. This year’s event was held at Millennium Knickerbocker Chicago. 6. Rachel Zoet and Stephanie Lake. 7. Mary Platz. 8. Jeff Durocher and Kara Weber. 9. Susan Babin, Whitney Taylor and Amy Current. —Photos courtesy of Edward Fox Photography & Video
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SUBMIT YOUR EVENT PHOTOS To have your meeting or event photos featured here, contact the editor at megan.gosch@tigeroak.com.
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PEOPLE PROFILE RACHEL DE MARTE
IN HIGH SPIRITS
Planner and stylist Rachel De Marte brings the fun to design- and food-focused events. BY MEGAN GOSCH
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or Chicago-based event planner and stylist Rachel De Marte, her bright, dynamic personality isn’t just one of her many amiable characteristics. It’s her calling card. “I’m a big personality and a maximalist through and through. There’s definitely an energy and excitement level I bring to each event that you’ll start to grasp as we sit down together to brainstorm,” says De Marte. “‘Where does she get all of this energy?’ and ‘force of nature’ are things I hear all the time,” she laughs. The Michigan native proudly embodies the party spirit—“De Marte Partay” was a strong suggestion for her company name and has even become a playful phrase amongst friends and clients—something she’s found to be an asset in her work. “When you’re passionate about what you do, you thrive on it and that translates through to my clients and their overall experience,” she says. “[Clients] will often thank me for helping them enjoy the process rather than stressing the logistics and that excitement can also build confidence in that working relationship. They may have an idea they’re excited about, but not sure others will love. I’ll get so excited I’m talking a mile a minute, and they may be looking at me like I have three heads, but they know they’ve got a partner. They’re not going to get steamrolled.” With a background in public relations and a fierce love of food, fashion and all things visual, De Marte got her feet wet in the industry working for a local caterer and in luxury retail, organizing boutique openings and fashion-forward events before carving out a niche for herself in food-focused events. Nearly 10 years after founding her own company and launching Italian eatery Pisolino (page 11), De Marte, has become a go-to style, design and F&B expert. De Marte works with clients and a skilled team of high-caliber vendors to build events based on goal and scope through a style, function and F&B lens “with the full design flowing from there. It’s based a lot in the creative process and I do a lot of the brainstorming, menu design, and decide on the overall look on the front end to help thread that culinary focus through every component,” she says. In her spare time, De Marte embraces her professional passion on the road. “I’m inspired by the power of food. It’s not just my 9-to5, it’s in everything I do, so a lot of my personal travel is centered around the culinary scene. I travel to experience unique culinary culture, and I’m fortunate to always come back refreshed, recharged and full of new ideas for my professional work.” As for the future, De Marte (who has dabbled in interiors and consults on all things lifestyle) jokes that her next career may lie in interior design but can’t wait to see where her next creative challenge takes her. “I’d love to do something on a container ship a la Crazy Rich Asians or maybe a private island. That’s right up my alley.” racheldemarte.com
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I L L U S T R AT I O N : T R A C I Z E L L M A N N
MEETINGS FROM THE TOP
T H E Y S TA R T H E R E Overlooking the Chicago River and the city’s iconic skyline, LondonHouse Chicago puts you at the heart of everything the Windy City has to offer. With 452 luxurious guest rooms and suites, 25,000 square feet of spectacular event space, and a range of inspired catering options, LondonHouse offers everything you need to make your next meeting unforgettable.
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