46 minute read
DESTINATION
Rackham Auditorium
PLANNING ON ANN ARBOR
College vibes and natural attractions combine for a hybrid meeting locale.
BY KELLY SKARRITT-WILLIAMS
For nearly 200 years, Ann Arbor has offered rest and refreshment to curious and adventurebound travelers. Looking back to its founding in 1824, this verdant land offered its towering burr oaks as respite for Virginian John Allen and New Yorker Elisha Walker Rumsey, who had lofty goals of establishing flour and grist mills along the Huron River. The town was named in honor of their wives, Ann and Mary Ann, and an arbor of grapevines that the settlers built. Mary Ann’s good cooking and pleasant personality helped Ann Arbor gain renown. That reputation for warm hospitality, great food and being a natural oasis remains today, continually turning the heads of meeting and event planners across the nation. “A great place to have a meeting is the same as a great place to go on vacation,” says Margaret Wyzlic, director of communications and public relations for Destination Ann Arbor. “Ann Arbor is a wonderful place to visit, even if you aren’t going to a meeting.” In 2018, Washtenaw County—Ann Arbor is the county seat—welcomed 3.9 million visitors, generating $832 million in visitor spending.
“Ann Arbor is this unique hybrid of college scene, tech start-up and outdoor recreation haven,” says Wyzlic. A quintessential college town thanks to the University of Michigan’s ubiquitous presence, the atmosphere is eternally youthful and fresh, with an eager sense of wonder and curiosity. It’s as if the call of hope and promise that drew the first settlers still calls to today’s pioneers.
The University of Michigan was the first public university in the Northwest Territories. It enrolled five students its first year, with just one residence/classroom building. Today, it’s one of the most distinguished universities in the world, with a sprawling campus. “There are several venues on campus available to groups,” says Nancy Harper, national sales account executive for Destination Ann Arbor. “They range from small meeting rooms for 10 people to an arena with capacity to hold 12,707.”
Some of the most popular spaces include Rackham Auditorium, Rackham Graduate School, University of Michigan Museum of Art, Hill Auditorium and the Michigan Athletics facilities. Apart from these highly regarded event spaces, the campus is also a draw for many event planners looking to infuse some fun and excitement into their meeting or conference.
“Central campus has a vibrant vibe and a life of its own, yet just a few blocks away people
Graduate Ann Arbor
Weber’s Restaurant and Hotel can walk to enjoy the essence of true Ann Arbor. There are many activities and festivals that take place on central campus. It's great for conference attendees,” says Harper.
If you need to also secure accommodations for out-of-town guests, you have some truly unique options in downtown Ann Arbor. Graduate Ann Arbor, located right on campus at Huron and State streets, creates “a distinct sense of place for visitors and guests.”
“Graduate Ann Arbor seamlessly fuses elements inspired by the city of Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan into its design, evoking a cozy collegiate feel with nods to the history and culture of the town,” says Graduate Ann Arbor General Manager Jason Nelson. “The motor mural behind the front desk and chalk equations on the wood columns pay homage to the evolution of the auto industry that Michigan is known for.”
Graduate Ann Arbor offers four different event spaces, accommodating anywhere from 10 to 300 people and offering an in-house award-winning catering service. Guests staying at the hotel can also enjoy a 24-hour fitness gym; Poindexter, its signature all-day café; and the Allen Rumsey Cocktail Lounge, named for Ann Arbor’s founders.
Weber’s Restaurant and Hotel offers world-class dining, four-star accommodations and spacious, luxurious spaces fitting for any event or conference. Weber’s is family-run, with the Weber family personally overseeing every aspect of the restaurant and hotel’s operations since 1937.
“We are a luxury property that’s family run,” says Michael Weber, vice president. “We care about making sure our product is top-notch. And you have the Weber family involved, which gives you a smaller, hands-on feel to our service.” It offers 10,000-squarefeet of interior event space, which includes two ballrooms and three private banquet rooms, and soon will provide an option for a transparent dance floor to cover the pool, so planners may rent out the entire pool area for events. Also new to Weber’s Hotel are state-
BY THE NUMBERS
121,890 RESIDENTS, MAKING IT THE 5th LARGEST CITY IN MICHIGAN 107,601 SEATS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN FOOTBALL STADIUM 31,266 UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS ENROLLED AT UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-ANN ARBOR 1,318 DOWNTOWN ANN ARBOR BUSINESSES OVER 300 RESTAURANTS 163 PARKS, 58 TRAILS COVERING 466 MILES THE AVERAGE VISITOR SPENDS $152 A DAY 28.77 SQUARE MILES 25 MILES FROM METRO DETROIT AIRPORT 11 MAJOR ENTERTAINMENT VENUES 6 DOWNTOWN ANN ARBOR MUSEUMS
EVEN Hotel Ann Arbor
Zingerman’s Greyline
of-the-art bathrooms in each guest room, complete with floor-to-ceiling mirrors and built-in Bluetooth speakers.
If fitness is your bailiwick, a great new addition to the city’s hotel accommodations is EVEN Hotel Ann Arbor. Located next to the Kensington Hotel, it occupies the space of what was once the Holiday Inn Express. But, after a $6.5 million renovation, it’s hardly reminiscent of its previous environs. Designed with the active business professional in mind, it offers amenities you won’t find anywhere else in the city. "This is completely different from anything in Ann Arbor," says Managing Director Daniel Fine. "There's no other place in the area that allows business travelers to maintain their active lifestyle so easily. Whatever your lifestyle, we have you covered—enjoy a great workout in our 24-hour athletic studio or a private workout using the in-room fitness equipment, and our on-site restaurant offers both healthy and indulgent choices.”
Each room has its own fitness area with a full-length mirror, exercise ball, stretch bands, exercise and yoga videos, yoga blocks and a mat. Guests even get their own water bottle to keep and the hotel will wash your exercise clothes at no additional charge. EVEN Hotel was designed around its 1,500-square-foot it is most famous for Zingerman’s Deli, located in the heart of the Kerrytown district. “There are so many people who are passionate about food and come here to work at Zingerman’s”
For meeting planners, Zingerman’s offers two outstanding venues that are worth exploring. Zingerman’s Greyline opened in 2016, accommodating groups of 40 to 200 in a space that’s decidedly urban in décor. “We kept the facade and ‘BUS’ sign from the historic Greyhound bus station that used to be here with an art deco design, which we carried through the space with light touches here and there,” says Terra Brock, event manager at Zingerman's Catering & Events. “It also has a custom-built bar that is definitely a beautiful
gym, with all the pre- and post-workout amenities someone could need. Planners can also utilize three meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 40 people. Coming in 2020 is an outdoor patio open year-round with cushiony couches, a canopy and an outdoor fireplace, perfect for relaxing with a cocktail after a long day.
A sense of innovation and trendiness permeates Ann Arbor throughout, and at the epicenter of this is Zingerman’s.
“Zingerman’s is a culinary and food-based enterprise. It has done a great deal to shape the food culture of our entire city,” says Destination Ann Arbor’s Wyzlic. Zingerman’s has much to offer throughout Ann Arbor, but
Zingerman’s Cornman Farms
centerpiece in the space.” Gaze upon downtown Ann Arbor from photo-worthy 12-foottall windows in the turret. Meeting planners have access to all the necessary amenities to make their event a success, including easy access to Zingerman’s catering for a one-ofa-kind dining experience. “We’re attached to (but not affiliated with) the Marriott Residence Inn, which is very convenient for out-of-town guests,” says Brock. “And, our location is a huge draw—we’re close to everything!”
For more of a rural ambiance, Zingerman’s also rents three spaces at Cornman Farms, a working 42-acre farm in Dexter, just west of Ann Arbor, which is a supplier of Zingerman's Roadhouse restaurant. Putting the farm in “farm to table,” there is space for 15-300 people and Cornman offers a range of customizable packages for private and corporate events.
If you drive a little further west, you’ll find Chelsea, a quaint, picturesque community that’s home to Jeff Daniels’ famous Purple Rose Theater, the historic Jiffy Mix factory, and Ugly Dog Distillery, which makes vodka from 100 percent Michigan wheat. Just off Exit 159 at M-52 is the Chelsea Comfort Inn. Adjacent to the hotel is the Village Conference Center, a multiuse venue renovated in May 2017. Its banquet team manages all the room setup, teardown, meal services, beverage service and on-site A/V for the center’s more than 4,300 square feet of event space.
“We are able to make a guest feel like they are in the comfort of their own home and make them stress-free during the time of their event,” says Nicholas Wedlick, Village Conference Center manager. “We have an onsite chef that is so intricate with his food and is able to create a guest dining experience that is uniquely our own to share.”
Get Connected
CHELSEA COMFORT INN & VILLAGE CONFERENCE CENTER choicehotels.com 734.433.8000
EVEN HOTEL ANN ARBOR ihg.com/evenhotels 734.761.2929
GRADUATE ANN ARBOR graduatehotels.com 734.769.2200
JIFFY MIX jiffymix.com 734.475.1361
PURPLE ROSE THEATER purplerosetheatre.org 734.433.7782
UGLY DOG DISTILLERY uglydogdistillery.com 734.433.0433
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN ATHLETIC FACILITIES facilityrentals.ath.umich.edu
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN HILL AUDITORIUM smtd.umich.edu 734.647.3327
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN MUSEUM OF ART umma.umich.edu 734.764.4596
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN RACKHAM AUDITORIUM smtd.umich.edu 734.647.3327
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN RACKHAM GRADUATE SCHOOL rackham.umich.edu 734.764.8572
WEBER’S RESTAURANT AND HOTEL webersannarbor.com 734.769.3237
ZINGERMAN’S CORNMAN FARMS zingermanscornmanfarms.com 734.619.8100
ZINGERMAN’S GREYLINE zingermansgreyline.com 734.230.2300
{ LIGHTEN UP }
After a day of discussions or training, have fun with your group. Visit our craft wineries, breweries and distilleries. Paddle through scenic waters. Golf beautiful courses and do so much more. For great hotel rates and fun itineraries, go to swmichigan.org/planner. You’ll instantly lighten up your planning load.
AN EXTRAORDINARY EVENT EXPERIENCE
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a top cultural destination in the nation—and an extraordinary place for your next event. With a 158-acre campus showcasing our incredible gardens and internationally acclaimed sculpture park, Meijer Gardens is an award-winning venue that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. We offer flexible indoor event spaces and unique outdoor spaces. Our entire facility is available for an exclusive affair, while smaller locations are perfect for an intimate dinner. In addition to complimentary admission to open exhibitions and garden areas during your event, you’ll enjoy: • Free, convenient parking on site. • Professional event coordinating services to guide you effortlessly through the planning process. • State-of-the-art AV equipment and certified technician services. • Creative in-house catering or choose from our select list of premier caterers. • Special corporate discounts ranging from 5% to 15% off room rental charges.
MEET WITH THE ANIMALS AND TAKE IN THE VIEWS AT THESE ZOO, AQUARIUM AND GARDEN VENUES.
BY CHRIS WILLIAMS
Michigan is renowned for its wildlife, scenic views and array of water-loving creatures. But the state also plays host to non-native animals, plants and fish in the zoos, aquariums and gardens that can be found across the state. There’s no better way to lend an exotic vibe or to create an atmosphere of calm during your event than by hosting it at one of these venues. The following is just a sampling of the many parks, zoos, aquariums and gardens throughout the state, and the features that can create memorable experiences for your guests.
ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS
DETROIT ZOO
Opened in 1928, the Detroit Zoo is Michigan’s largest paid family attraction. More than 1.3 million guests visit the zoo each year to view its wide array of animals—more than 2,600 from 228 species inhabit the zoo’s 125 acres. Take a ride on the Tauber Family Railroad or go for a spin on the zoo’s historic carousel. Annual events such as Zoo Brew, Wild Beasts Wild Wine, Zoo Boo and Wild Lights draw visitors from throughout the state. It’s one of Michigan’s most beloved institutions.
Throughout the year, the Detroit Zoo hosts thousands of guests at a variety of events, including charity walks, picnics, birthday parties, weddings and corporate events. The zoo welcomes groups from 20 to several thousand, depending on the type of event, with most meeting spaces located near its beautiful and expansive animal habitats. “Not many other places offer guests the opportunity to learn about wildlife and observe lions, tigers and bears—oh my!—on a coffee break,” says Events Manager Brittany Gardners.
JOHN BALL ZOO
Located on more than 140 acres, Grand Rapids’ John Ball Zoo offers an opportunity to see more than 2,000 animals—over 230 species—in beautifully designed habitats. From the Van Andel Living Shores Aquarium to the Idema Forest Realm Trail overlooking wolf and grizzly bear enclosures, the zoo has unique and enjoyable attractions for the entire family, and brings a sense of adventure to corporate meetings, receptions and weddings. The zoo’s most popular event space is the Bissell Tree House, located on one of the highest points in Grand Rapids and delivering a majestic view of the downtown area. This hillside getaway is surrounded by floor-toceiling windows and wooden beams, creating a picturesque location for numerous events. It’s a popular space for weddings and conferences with space available for as many as 200 guests, depending on the event. The venue offers a large ballroom overlooking downtown Grand Rapids, a catering kitchen, wraparound covered veranda and a spacious reception area. The zoo also offers exciting private after-hours events, such as camel riding, a zip line over the zoo and a ropes course.
BINDER PARK ZOO
Travel the world without leaving Battle Creek at this 433-acre zoo. Split into two sections, Binder Park Zoo is known for its scenic beauty and beloved attractions that delight families and guests, including a vintage carousel and antique locomotive. Its animal habitats feature abundant trees and water. Its expansive Africa section puts guests in the heart of a safari, up close with cheetahs, giraffes and a 600-pound tortoise. “The whole thing is designed to be immersive,” says Leslie Walsh, Binder Park Zoo’s manager of marketing and development. “It’s our signature attraction.”
Binder Park Zoo boasts numerous amenities for event guests, including several pavilions to accommodate weddings, two on-site restaurants and a Conservation Discovery Center that features classrooms and lecture spaces; groups can also rent the historic carousel building. Its most popular event site is the Africa section’s Zamani School, where guests can enjoy a breathtaking view of the savannah. Overnight camping is also available, allowing guests to sleep under the stars near the zoo’s exotic residents. It’s a proven hit with families and with corporations looking for a unique teambuilding exercise.
GARDENS AND MORE
BELLE ISLE AQUARIUM
Opened in August 1904, the Belle Isle Aquarium is proud to be the oldest and the longest operating single-site aquarium facility in the continental United States. Reopened to the public in 2012, the Albert Kahn-designed facility continues to delight families with its beautiful architecture and ever-growing collection of aquatic life. Detroiters and city visitors flock to this urban gem, where they marvel at the building’s design while taking in one of the largest collections of air-breathing fish in the world, with species of fish from around the globe.
Belle Isle, home to the aquarium, is one of Detroit’s most famous recreation spots, making it an ideal location for special events. It can accommodate up to 250 guests, depending on the event, and provides a unique location for memorable moments.
ANNA SCRIPPS WHITCOMB CONSERVATORY
The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory at Belle Isle is the oldest continually running conservatory in the United States, covering 13 acres that include a gorgeous fountain and calming pond. The conservatory boasts a collection of unique and exotic fauna, including tropical trees, cacti, flowers and even food-bearing plants. The peacock sundial, constructed in 1927, and the Levi Barbour Memorial Fountain, gifted to Detroit from the city of Toyota, Japan, in 1985, make wonderful spots to luxuriate and take photos. Belle Isle is a Michigan State Park, placing the conservatory just feet from gorgeous river views, parkland and walking paths.
Given its picturesque setting, the conservatory is a popular location for receptions and weddings and accommodates up to 25 people inside the facility and 150 guests outdoors (public access to the conservatory is not restricted during events).
FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS AND SCULPTURE PARK
For 25 years, the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids has served as a testimony to a great love story, combining Frederick’s love of sculpture with his wife Lena’s passion for flowers. The park encompasses 158 acres, showcasing internationally acclaimed sculptures and themed gardens, making it an ideal location for indoor and outdoor events accomodating up to 2,200 people.
The location offers multiple event spaces, free parking and admission to garden areas during your event, along with audiovisual and technical specialists, creative catering choices and professional event coordinators. “Corporate events are our most popular, but we also have roughly 150 weddings per year, with many unique indoor and outdoor settings to offer,” says Stacie Niedzwiecki, director of hospitality. “All rooms have beautiful views of gardens and sculptures, and guests can also enjoy the outdoor spaces during the day hours. We are a great meeting location, with an opportunity to stretch during breaks by taking a short walk through our beautiful indoor gardens.” Centrally located in Grand Rapids, Meijer Gardens is situated near hotels and highways, and 10 minutes from Gerald R. Ford International Airport.
DOW GARDENS
Established in 1899, Dow Gardens welcomes over 300,000 guests annually. This Midland gem features a dazzling 110-acre display of annuals and perennials punctuated by distinctive bridges, an award-winning children’s garden, towering pines and delightful water features. A 1,400-foot canopy walk—the longest in the nation—allows visitors to experience nature from soaring heights. “Dow Gardens is the perfect location for your next adventure,” says Carolynn Paten, assistant director of guest relations. “Our landscape offers multiple locations for wedding ceremonies, group tours and marriage proposals. We offer both guided and unguided experiences highlighting our art, history and horticulture. There is something new every season!”
Dow Gardens’ colorful flowers, rippling water features and mature trees create the perfect backdrop for weddings and special events, including classes, performances, tournaments and more, with outdoor seating for up to 200 guests and indoor spaces available on a limited basis. Guests can step away from the festivities to enjoy a calming walk on the grass, hold a butterfly or sample a vegetable in the children’s garden.
MATTHAEI BOTANICAL GARDENS & NICHOLS ARBORETUM
The University of Michigan is one of the state’s most famous institutions, renowned for its sports teams and research excellence—but a love for the natural world has been a hallmark since its earliest days, as well. Its Matthaei Botanical Gardens provide a place for nature lovers to take in a unique array of plant life and enjoy peaceful surroundings. One of its most notable draws is the Nichols Arboretum Peony Garden, a century-old patch that holds the largest collection of heirloom peonies in North America. Each June, the garden bursts into bloom with up to 10,000 flowers.
The year-round conservatory, as well as its perennial, bonsai and children’s gardens, make the botanical gardens a draw for visitors from throughout the state. The peaceful surroundings also make it a popular choice for those looking for a meeting with a view, including local businesses, university departments and those seeking space for conferences, seminars and retreats. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens are also a popular location for outdoor weddings. The facilities can host up to 150 people outdoors and up to 125 in the auditorium, which provides a great view of the garden space.
WINDMILL ISLAND GARDENS
Windmill Island Gardens is a city park in Holland that’s home to the historic DeZawaan Windmill, a working Dutch windmill. The island is a romantic and scenic location, featuring a charming pavilion and an enchanting garden. The working windmill produces flour, wheat bran, grits and corn meal—all of which are available on-site.
The beautiful atmosphere makes Windmill Island Gardens a popular location for corporate events and weddings. The Celebration Pavilion, located in the middle of its gardens, can be enclosed during cooler weather and open during the summer, making it a popular wedding venue. The pavilion can accommodate up to 250 people and is a popular choice for corporate events, weddings and company picnics.
EDSEL AND ELEANOR FORD HOUSE
Designed by famed architect Albert Kahn and constructed in 1929, the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House was intended as a place for the two to raise their family. Today, the 30,000-squarefoot, 60-room house is a popular destination for those who want a brush with Detroit history. Surrounded by a large swimming pool, meadows, a lagoon and groves of canopy trees, the home is a popular tour destination and choice for special events. “This is a huge part of American history,” says Amanda Rutland, Ford House’s visitor experience director. “People are taken aback by the landscaping and surprised to see that this is a true home.” In 2020, the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House will open its new visitor center, a 40,000-square-foot facility that will expand the venue’s offerings for special events. The visitor center will feature an expanded restaurant as well as new event and conference spaces, with catering and technical assistance available. The customizable spaces feature a walkout balcony overlooking the grounds and dining space for up to 200. The visitor center will also host special exhibits, beginning with “Driven by Design,” a celebration of automobile design.
MSU HORTICULTURE GARDENS
Located in East Lansing, the MSU Horticulture Gardens are like no other campus green space. A visit quickly immerses you in a wonderland of flowers, greenery, succulents and beautifully designed spaces. Students and staff constantly work across its seven acres, ensuring there’s always something new for visitors to see and enjoy. While the gardens were not originally intended as an event space, visitors were so taken with their beauty that they inquired about availability for weddings, seminars and meetings. “The market called, and we answered,” says Wedding and Event Coordinator Sarah Heim. “We are proud to see the gardens enjoyed by visitors, vendors, volunteers, clients and eventgoers.”
The Horticultural Gardens offer a yearround, indoor conservatory, which can seat up to 170 surrounded by trees and ferns and greeted by stars that shine through its transparent ceilings. A plaza provides a lovely location for cocktail hours and outdoor receptions. The gardens’ day-of coordinator is available to assist with equipment rentals, setup and parking. “We promise an event that will certainly ‘wow’ your guests, as we truly embrace the beauty of the outdoors— even when you are indoors,” says Heim.
MEADOW BROOK HALL
A National Historic Landmark, Meadow Brook Hall is a house museum and cultural center featuring 110 rooms, 16 gardens and stunning Tudor-revival architecture. It features a twostory Gothic ballroom, a stately library, beautiful sun porch and grand entryway. Guests are surrounded by original paintings, sculptures, furniture, carpets, ceramics, silver, costumes, textiles and Tiffany art glass, transporting them to a bygone era of luxury while still enjoying all the modern amenities of a full-service event venue.
The hall is a popular location for many events, from corporate meetings to grand receptions and cocktail hours. It offers a variety of catering options from its top-rated resident chef. Meadow Brook Hall can accommodate up to 300 guests for a plated meal in its Garden Tent, multiple-room dining can accommodate up to 172 and a strolling station meal can accommodate up to 275. The venue also offers a number of other rooms for smaller meetings, which can accommodate as few as 20 people. External Relations Director Shannon O’Berski promises that “no other venue will take your guests’ breath away like Meadow Brook Hall.”
Get Connected
ANNA SCRIPPS WHITCOMB CONSERVATORY belleisleconservancy.org | 313.821.9851
BELLE ISLE AQUARIUM belleisleconservancy.org | 313.402.0466
BINDER PARK ZOO binderparkzoo.org | 269.979.1351
DETROIT ZOO detroitzoo.org | 248.336.5805
DOW GARDENS dowgardens.org | 800.362.4874
EDSEL & ELEANOR FORD HOUSE fordhouse.org | 313.884.4222
FREDERICK MEIJER GARDENS AND SCULPTURE PARK meijergardens.org | 616.957.1580
JOHN BALL ZOO jbzoo.org | 616.336.4300
MATTHAEI BOTANICAL GARDENS & NICHOLS ARBORETUM mgbna.umich.edu | 734.647.7808
MEADOW BROOK HALL meadowbrookhall.org | 248.364.6200
MSU HORTICULTURAL GARDENS canr.msu.edu/hrt/our_gardens | 517.355.5191
WINDMILL ISLAND GARDENS cityofholland.com | 616.355.1300
Industry Update
VENUE NEWS 44 PEOPLE NEWS 48 SNAPSHOTS 54 PEOPLE PROFILE 56
FOODIE TIME
KIMPTON’S 2020 CULINARY & COCKTAILS TREND FORECAST IDENTIFIES THE F&B TRENDS TO WATCH THIS YEAR.
Research courtesy of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants
One-hundred-thirty chefs, sommeliers, general managers and bartenders from 75-plus Kimpton restaurants and bars reveal the dishes, flavors, ingredients and philosophies that will be explored in 2020. Below are a handful of the findings; read the full report at kimptonhotels.com/culinary-trends. CULINARY 31% of chefs say it’s no longer enough to have just one or two gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan and keto options on the menu. Levantine cuisine, including Israeli, Turkish and Lebanese, is predicted as the most influential style for menus in 2020, according to nearly 40% of chefs surveyed. S’chug, a Mediterranean hot sauce, and muhammara, a red pepper and walnut spread found in Turkish and Levantine dishes, topped the list for spreads and sauces in this year’s forecast. Ingredients with sour flavor profiles like rhubarb, tamarind and vinegar will grow in popularity, with nearly 23% of chefs selecting sour as their favorite experimental flavor. Chefs also noted that funky flavors will make their way into breakfast staples, including licorice and salty syrups and savory oatmeal made with bone broth. Unusual seeds like lotus, basil and water lily are predicted as one of the trendiest ingredients according to 31% of chefs surveyed. 51%predict plant-based meat alternatives will solidify their mainstream status in 2020 (no longer just a cult following) and we’ll see more plant-based takes on traditional meat dishes. Schmaltz, or rendered chicken or goose fat, will also be trending in 2020, according to a quarter of Kimpton chefs. Keep an eye out for schmaltz croutons accompanying roasted chicken dishes, and schmaltz as the new olive oil for dipping baked bread. 30% of chefs predicted vegetable tartare will be infiltrating restaurant menus in the New Year.
TAMARIND
RHUBARB
SPICE SACHETS IN COCKTAILS
GROWN-UP SUNDAE, SAVORY DESSERT ITEMS
“Grown-up sundaes”
using locally sourced, often unexpected ingredients will be one of the top dessert trends, according to 1 in 5 chefs.
Savory items will be featured more prominently in desserts— expect to see uniquesavory meets-sweet pairings like black pepper or sesame ice cream and truffle macarons.
Veganism will influence dessert menus as well, as 47% of respondents highlighted vegan desserts as the strongest sweet-tooth trend for 2020. Try it in lemon tarts made with cashews, coconut and lemon zest or vegan chocolate peanut butter cheesecake.
Aromatic (inedi-
ble) garnishes were cited as one of the up-and-coming trends bartenders are most excited to experiment with in 2020. Examples include spice sachets with cloves and allspice, burning sticks of wood or even absorbent, scented squares of paper clipped to glassware.
Influences from Mediterranean regions will shape bar menus according to 46% of respondents—we’ll see light, refreshing, often low-alcohol spritzes all over bar menus in 2020. These lower sugar,
crisper cocktails
are the next evolution of the Spanish gin & tonic. More than a quarter of bartenders are most excited about sour beers in the year ahead, followed by hazy or juicy IPAs and
high alcohol kom-
buchas as a beer alternative.
Next year’s biggest wine trend will be the emergence of more natural wines, or wines farmed organically without adding or removing anything in the cellar. Orange wines and pét-nat sparkling wines are also becoming more popular with wine aficionados. Liquor Expect to see the rise of alternativegrain spirits like baiju, shōchū and soju, spirits that originated in China, Japan and Korea, respectively.
Whisky highballs— a trend largely driven by the popularity of lighter Japanese whiskies—are predicted to gain a cult following next year, followed closely by spiked seltzers and the return of the paloma.
Mezcal will continue to dominate in 2020, with more than a third of respondents choosing it as the predicted spirit of choice next year. Bartenders are having fun with the smoky spirit and using it to reimagine traditional cocktails.
NONALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
Many experts are predicting coffee spritzes as the hot (cold) drink of 2020. The other top coffee trends for 2020 include nitro coffee on tap, cold brew alternatives and CBD coffee.
Botanical-infused sparkling drinks
are cited as the nonalcoholic trend bartenders will most likely experiment with, followed up by alcohol-free spirits and upleveled teas with exotic fruit flavors like guanabana, lulo and passion fruit.
Some 42% of bartenders surveyed are excited to embrace the noalcohol culture as part of their overall bar experience in the year ahead.
CONFERENCE NEWS»
Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences Choir
Eric Larson Rod Alberts
Detroit CVB Annual Meeting News
The Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCVB) held its Annual Partnership Meeting at TCF Center on Jan. 29. The theme was "Making the Impossible Possible" and featured Eric Larson, CEO of the Downtown Detroit Partnership, and Rod Alberts, executive director of the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, who both highlighted projects that are transforming the landscape of Detroit, including the North American International Auto Show and its move to June. Larry Alexander, president and CEO of the DMCVB, outlined the 2020 sales and marketing strategies of the DMCVB and announced the large conventions coming to Detroit in 2020, including FIRST Robotics World Championship, International Convention of Alcoholics Anonymous, and Campus Party, a three-day, 24/7 technology conference taking place over the next three years. Additionally, Alexander announced that the Bureau also booked the National Guard Association of the United States for 2024 and American Bus Association for 2023.
Larry Alexander
VENUE NEWS» 25TH ANNIVERSARY AT FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park will be celebrating 25 years of being open to the public this April. Internationally acclaimed sculpture exhibitions, horticulture shows, seasonal indoor and outdoor displays, concerts and educational programming are enjoyed by 670,000 visitors annually.
The Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love expansion project continues throughout 2020, most notably with ongoing work on a new 69,000 square-foot, LEEDcertified Welcome Center, scheduled to open in early 2021. The final phase of the parking lot expansion and redesign will complete the doubling of the number of parking spaces located within a one- to two-minute walk from the new Welcome Center entrance. The new configuration will offer additional accessible parking spaces near the entrance, increase the number of parking spaces overall and add new urban and rain gardens to control water runoff. meijergardens.org/growing
Black Star Farms Dining Series Dates Announced
The new Arcturos Signature Dining Series at Black Star Farms has been announced for 2020. The events are a restructured and enhanced version of the popular Harvest Dinners, the long-running, elevated winepairing dining experiences at the Suttons Bay winery estate.
The Arcturos Dining Experiences will each feature a distinctly local element where guests will experience extras like musical accompaniment, a morel expert and morel hunt, or the summer event being held atop the estate vineyard.
Each event will celebrate Black Star Farm’s vineyard-to-table practices, in which grapes are grown locally, harvested and bottled all at their own two wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas. blackstarfarms.com/arcturos-dining-series
THE UPCOMING DATES AND THEMES FOR 2020 ARE:
May 22: Morels in May
August 7: Atop the Estate Vineyard
October 23: Bountiful Harvest
December 31: NYE at the Inn
VENUE NEWS»
New Event Space from Bedrock Detroit
A new Detroit event space, located in the One Campus Martius expansion, is now accepting reservations for events taking place after April 1.
The 27,529-square-foot venue includes a prefunction area, a main event space that is divisible into three separate rooms, and a wraparound outdoor terrace.
The venue is available for corporate meetings and conferences, fundraisers, weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, and other receptions. The main event space has a capacity of 499, and the entire venue can hold 999 guests. It can be arranged in theater-, classroom- or banquet-style seating or as a strolling reception. Contact the Bedrock Event Team for more information at bedrockevents@bedrockdetroit.com
NEW ART COMING TO TCF CENTER
The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA) Art Foundation has put out a call to artists for a large-scale, public sculpture that will be located in the center of the TCF Center’s main entrance circle drive on Washington Boulevard.
“We are excited to launch this national competition in search of a stunning and thought-provoking civic sculpture that will have a permanent home at the front entrance of our world-class TCF Center in downtown Detroit,’’ says Larry Alexander, DRCFA board chairman. “Our hope is that this piece will highlight our great city’s culture, achievements and strong spirit of innovation and design. The sculpture will welcome Detroiters and the nearly 1.4 million people who visit TCF Center annually.”
The sculpture competition is part of a public art initiative launched by the DRCFA and the DRCFA Art Foundation. Through Art at TCF Center, Detroit joins major convention centers throughout the country featuring public art, including cities such as Chicago, Nashville, Pittsburgh and Washington D.C.
SUPPLIER NEWS» TWO COMPANIES JOIN FORCES
Full-service meeting management firm Grand Connection LLC acquired Gail Andrus Travel (GAT), a group tour and event transportation company, on Nov. 30. This acquisition will provide clients of both companies a unified meeting management, group tour and event transportation company that is unprecedented in the industry.
GAT is well known for its group transportation services, and transports thousands of people throughout Michigan and the United States each year. These transportation services go hand in hand with Grand Connection’s meeting services. This merger enables clients of both companies to gain access to a wider range of services while attending conferences, group tours and other work events.
“This merger could not have happened at a better time,” says Tracy VanderMeer, founder of Grand Connection. “We’ve recently undergone an internal restructure to better position our company for growth, and the opportunity to continue Gail Andrus Travel’s 37-year legacy was an opportunity we could not pass up!”
MAKE YOUR MEETING GRAND
Located on Mackinac Island overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, Grand Hotel provides the perfect location for your next meeting, reunion or special occasion. With historic charm, unique accommodations, activities and personal service from a dedicated convention manager, America’s Summer Place offers an unforgettable experience for every guest.
grandhotel.com/meetings • 855-241-4519
HOTEL NEWS» NEW HOTEL IN FLINT
A new Hilton Garden Inn is set to open in downtown Flint in 2020 in what was formerly the Genesee County Savings Bank Building.
The historic 11-story building was Flint’s second skyscraper when it opened in 1920. The current transformation of the nearly 100-year-old building will result in a 101-room Hilton Garden Inn, complete with a full-service restaurant, a meeting and banquet center and rooftop deck.
“The transformation of the historic Genesee County Savings Bank into a modern Hilton Garden Inn will symbolize to the region and beyond that the revitalization of Flint is underway” says Tim Herman, Urban Renaissance Center president. “It will provide business and leisure visitors with upscale accommodations in downtown Flint and expand the customer base for our local restaurants, arts and cultural institutions, and community events.”
The hotel will be managed by Crescent Hotels and Resorts. Flint-based firms DW Lurvey Co. and Sorenson Gross are jointly managing construction of the project. Detroit-based Kraemer Design Group is the architect, interior designer and historic consultant.
“Crescent has numerous historic properties in our portfolio, but this property’s transformation from a 1920s bank will definitely create a unique experience for guests,” says Michael George, CEO of Crescent Hotels & Resorts. “As an award-winning Hilton manager, team Crescent and our unique approach will maximize the potential of this property.”
The grand banking hall on the ground floor will be converted into a new destination restaurant. An existing balcony overlooks the restaurant and bar and will serve as a prefunction area to the meeting rooms and banquet spaces on the second floor. Upstairs in the tower, original marble wainscoting, bases and door casings remain, and are being restored to be incorporated into the hotel’s corridor design. A new rooftop bar—with views overlooking Buckham Alley to the south and of Kettering University’s campus to the west—is planned for the top of the adjacent five-story Sherman building.
PEOPLE NEWS» MACVB Announces 2020 Officers
Amanda Wilkin has been appointed as president of the Michigan Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus (MACVB). She has served in various volunteer leadership roles with MACVB and is the executive director of Visit Charlevoix. “I am excited to serve as president of MACVB,” she says. “This association represents destination marketing organizations from around the state who work with Michigan’s tourism industry. We collaborate with others in the industry including Travel Michigan and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. We also co-manage the Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism and play a strong role in advocating for Michigan’s tourism industry. I am looking forward to the year ahead.”
MACVB is comprised of 48 member convention and visitor bureaus located throughout the state of Michigan. MACVB is an organization of Convention & Visitor Bureau CEOs and staff, whose mission is to serve as the advocate for the travel industry and provide leadership to its members through education and communication.
THE NEWLY ELECTED OFFICERS ARE: President: Amanda Wilkin (Charlevoix) Vice President: Janet Korn (Grand Rapids) Secretary: Mary Robinson (Livingston County) Treasurer: Trevor Tkach (Traverse City) Members at Large: Linda Hoath (Sault Ste. Marie) and Jack Schripsema (Lansing) Past President: Chris Rowley (Mt. Pleasant)
New PR/Media Manager at Traverse City Tourism
Jillian Manning recently joined the Traverse City Tourism team as the public relations/media manager. Manning, a third-generation local, grew up in Traverse City and graduated from the University of Michigan before beginning a career in book publishing, which took her to Denver, Chicago and Grand Rapids. Two years ago, she returned to northern Michigan as the public relations manager for Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.
“Coming home has been a dream come true,” she says. “I’ve seen Traverse City change and grow over the years, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the tourism community that welcomes visitors to our beautiful area.”
In her new role, Manning will share the story of Traverse City with travelers around the world, as well as work with media and community partners. She will also champion sustainable tourism practices and vacation experiences that enhance the culture and economy of the destination.
“Tourism is a vital part of Traverse City’s identity,” Manning says. “We live in a magical corner of the world, and we want to share that magic with others. My goal is to impart the respect and ownership locals have for Traverse City with our visitors so we can all enjoy this great place.”
“We are grateful to have someone who is committed to the area joining our team,” says Trevor Tkach, CEO/president of Traverse City Tourism. “Jillian is a polished PR professional who will represent the region well, and her passion for northern Michigan is a perfect fit for our company culture.”
MUSKEGON, MI VISITMUSKEGON.ORG
Bernadette Benkert 231-724-1123 bernadette@visitmuskegon.org
PEOPLE NEWS»
New Ownership at Special Occasions
Special Occasions recently merged all three Michigan locations. The company will now be led by co-owners
Jamie Carnes and Keri Kujala, who purchased Special Occasions East, located in Grand Blanc, Special Occasions West, located in Grand Rapids, and Special Occasions North, located in Traverse City. All three locations had previously been owned as separate entities. Carnes and Kujala will continue to operate the brand under Special Occasions. All social media platforms have been merged to Special Occasions MI.
Special Occasions, founded in 2003, has provided specialty linen, chair and décor rentals for corporate, bridal and social events. Carnes and Kujala will be expanding services offered by elevating the design aspect of the company. This will provide clients with expert design services based on their layouts, themes and budget.
There will also be an emphasis on statewide access moving in to the 2020 season. Special Occasions will travel throughout the state of Michigan to ensure product availability and installation for any event.
“We are excited to build on the foundation Special Occasions has created over the last 15 years and look forward to enhancing the services offered to each client. It is important to our whole team that each event can be fully designed to match our client’s vision,” says Carnes.
Carnes comes to Special Occasions with over 15 years of event coordination and design experience, most recently owning and managing Design Effect, which focused on corporate coordination throughout the Midwest.
Kujala begins at Special Occasions after a 14-year tenure with Mercy Health where she was the director of donor and corporate relations with a focus on overseeing fundraising and PR events for the system.
Previous owners of Special Occasions have included Lorrie Sage, Penny Waltman, Dee Mitchell and Mark Mitchell. Management Promotions at The Homestead
The Homestead, America’s Freshwater Resort, has announced the promotion of two key staff members to management positions.
Adriene Kokowicz has been named senior vice president
and Logan Sanders has been named vice president. Kokowicz, who has been with The Homestead since 1982, began her career in a seasonal internship position while attending Michigan State University, and has since worked in all the resort’s operating departments, with a promotion in 1999 to general manager. Most recently she held the title of vice president and general manager. In her new position, she will continue to oversee the resort’s sales, recreation and accounting departments.
In his new role, Sanders will lead the Rooms Division, including sales. In 2017, he was named senior manager of accommodations, handling everything from housekeeping to interior maintenance to laundry and the property’s rental units. Prior to that, he served as quality control manager and reservations manager.
Detroit Metro CVB Restructures Leadership
Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCVB) President & CEO Larry Alexander has announced major changes to the bureau’s leadership organizational structure. The changes include promoting the DMCVB’s four directors to vice presidents.
“The goal of this restructuring is to create a leaner, more efficient organization that exceeds the expectations of our customers and industry partners,” says Alexander. “By perpetuating critical forward thinking we can continue to drive metro Detroit into the future as a vibrant destination and increase tourism and meetings.”
Harriet Carter has been promoted to vice president, customer/partner services. Carter is responsible for working with DMCVB partners to develop programs and strategic initiatives that enhance convention experiences in metro Detroit. Her position is critical to maintaining and improving relationships with customers and enhancing the visibility of the DMCVB within the hospitality community.
Renee Monforton has been promoted to vice president, marketing and communications. In her new role, Monforton is responsible for keeping the DMCVB on the leading edge of all aspects of marketing, including advertising, public relations, international marketing, social media and publishing. She also serves as the main media spokesperson for the organization.
Susan Richardson has been promoted to vice president, group/convention sales. Richardson’s main priority will be leading the sales team through strategic initiatives that recognize the changing needs within the market and determine the best market segment initiatives to fulfill those needs to result in the optimal business mix for the region.
Jessica Strasser has been promoted to vice president, talent resources. Strasser is charged with ensuring DMCVB talent and technology assets and resources are strategically aligned to drive business priorities and staff are equipped with the resources, skill set and knowledge to perform. She will also work with hospitality industry partners to lead tri-county workforce development efforts to benefit the metropolitan Detroit region.
June 3, 2020 | MotorCity Casino Hotel, Detroit
Michigan Meetings Expo
• Come see hotels, resorts and unique venues from throughout the state • Education, idea sharing and networking • Complimentary for meeting planners
Register now at www.destinationMI.com
AWARDS» Michigan Brewers Guild 2020 Awards
The Michigan Brewers Guild presented two awards to industry leaders at its annual conference on Jan. 9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo. The Tom Burns Award was presented to Ron Jeffries, cofounder and head brewer of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales in Dexter, and the Michigan Beer Champion Award was presented to Shawn Gary, president of Alliance Beverage Distributing in Grand Rapids.
Ron Jeffries
Shawn Gary
HSMAI RECOGNIZES MICHIGAN COMPANIES
At the 63rd annual Adrian Awards, the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) honored Travel Michigan with a Platinum Award for Public Relations Innovation for the creation of and supporting campaign around the Pure Sounds of Michigan album.
Pure Sounds of Michigan is an ambient album, a first-of-its-kind project by a travel brand that takes listeners on a sunrise-tosunset tour of the state to both inspire travel to Michigan and evoke fond memories. The album is comprised of songs composed by Michigan artists utilizing recordings of nature from Michigan State Parks. Launched to coincide with the Michigan State Park Centennial in 2019, and produced by Detroit-based Assemble Sound, the album reached No. 9 on the Billboard New Age chart.
“We are fortunate to have a beautiful state and no shortage of images to showcase that, but we wanted to inspire travel in a new, immersive way,” says Dave Lorenz, vice president of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Pure Sounds of Michigan is a true love letter to the state, from the natural sounds of gentle streams and rolling waves to the Michigan artists involved, it is an honor for this initiative to be recognized by our peers in the travel industry.”
In addition to being recognized for Pure Sounds of Michigan, Travel Michigan also received a Bronze Award in the Integrated Marketing Campaign category for its Long Live Summer campaign. Long Live Summer was the guiding light for the 2018 Pure Michigan summer campaign that integrated the efforts of advertising agency McCann Detroit, media buying agency UM, and PR agency Current Global to inspire travel to Michigan in a way that evolved the campaign while staying true to the brand.
Additional winning entries from Michigan destinations and properties, in partnership with their digital agency TwoSix Digital, include:
Frankenmuth Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Silver for Frankenmuth Shoulder Season Campaign Traverse City Tourism Silver for Traverse City Hotels and Accommodations Summer Escape Campaign Crystal Mountain Bronze for Crystal Mountain Summer Getaway Promotion
“It was a great honor for our work to be recognized on a national level,” says Dave Serino, founder and chief strategist at TwoSix Digital. “We’re very thankful for the opportunity to work with such a great group of clients and we’re looking forward to more continued success in the future.”
RESOURCES»
TCF Center’s Event Planning Guide
TCF Center recently published its updated 2020 Event Planning Guide, delivering all of the latest resources, floor plans and rules and regulations needed to hold an event in the venue.
“TCF Center has a professional and experienced team that partners with the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau and the regional hospitality community to fully support shows and conventions at the facility," says Claude Molinari, general manager. "This guide leads event planners through every phase of their events.” Download the 68-page guide at tcfcenterdetroit.com.
Welcome to the DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomfield Hills Detroit
Offering eight meeting rooms totaling 12,000 square feet of newly renovated event space and an exquisite outdoor courtyard, the DoubleTree by Hilton Bloom eld Hills Detroit is Oakland County’s premier place to meet. The on-site restaurant, Zalman’s, offers an old-world delicatessen experience, while The Duke lobby bar is the perfect spot to grab a cocktail in-between meetings. 144 completely updated guest rooms provide absolute comfort to your out-of-town guests.
Our in-house catering and events team will coordinate the perfect corporate event while you sit back and take care of business as usual in a space that’s anything but.
39475 Woodward Avenue, Bloom eld Hills, MI 48304 www.doubletreebloom eldhills.com 248.644.1400
Book 20 or more rooms and receive:
• One complimentary guest room • $50 gift certi cate to Zalman’s
• A one-hour welcome reception
Book between now and September 30, 2020
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The 2020 Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism was held at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel Feb. 18-20. The event featured three days of workshops, keynote speakers and networking opportunities. Speakers included Clayton Reid (CEO, MMGY Global), Rick Wade (vice president, U.S. Chamber of Commerce) and Elnian Gilbert (trainer, Zingerman’s ZingTrain). Workshops covered a range of topics including accessible travel, content marketing, optimizing your digital presence and more.
The opening day included a Michigan Cares for Tourism volunteer project that helped refurbish two historic buildings in Grand Rapids, and an opening reception at New Holland Brewing’s The Knickerbocker, sponsored by Experience Grand Rapids. The Pure Michigan reception and awards dinner took place on Feb. 19.
1. Ken Hayward, Grand Hotel, accepts the 2020 Pure Michigan Legacy Award. The Legacy Award is the premiere award given during the Pure Michigan Award ceremonies. 2. Elnian Gilbert, closing keynote speaker. 3. Dave Lorenz, vice president of Travel Michigan. 4. Doug Small, CEO of Experience Grand Rapids, accepts a TICOM Collaboration Award on behalf of his organization. 5. Mary Kerr, CEO of Destination Ann Arbor, accepts a TICOM Collaboration Award. 6. Michigan DNR staffers present a Pure Michigan Trail Award. 7. Rick Wade, vice president, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Thursday morning’s kickoff keynote speaker. –Photos by MI Economic Development Corporation
SUBMIT YOUR EVENT PHOTOS
To have your meeting or event photos featured here, contact the editor at mike.munzenrider@tigeroak.com.
