Lansing is a 90-minute drive from 90% of Michigan’s population, making it easily accessible for attendees and speakers.
MIDWESTERN HOSPITALITY
Our 500+ Certified Tourism Ambassadors ensure a warm, welcoming experience for everyone.
AFFORDABLE & VERSATILE
With budget-friendly venues and dining options, Lansing o ers unique spaces that suit any event.
A HUB OF EXPERTS
Tap into Lansing's network of industry leaders from Michigan State University and state government.
Jackpot for Planners
Planning With Purpose
BY NATALIE COMPAGNO & GREG FREITAS
Host a successful philanthropic event with tips and tricks from the experts
7 Meeting Notes
Take meetings from drab to fab with the help of these products, places, and inspiring ideas
16 Destination
Entice meeting-goers with Muskegon’s modern convention venues, walkable downtown, and waterfront charm
20 Meet + Eat
Experience fresh flavors and feel close to the land with group dining at farms and wineries
38 Industry Update
Discover the latest updates with our infographic and Michigan news
46 Snapshots
MPI Michigan toasts to a year well-spent at its Celebration Gala and Fundraising Auction
48 People Profile
Yvette Campbell activates her negotiation superpowers at Meetings Made Easy
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It’s All in the Details
» DURING A RECENT MEETING of the Travel Industry Coalition of Michigan in Lansing, time was set aside for roundtables where attendees could share insight and information in small groups. At one point, I asked those at my table, “What challenges do event planners face when negotiating a contract with a meeting venue?”
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER – NATIONAL SALES 586-344-6637 | LBURGER@GREENSPRING.COM
GROUP EDITOR
SENIOR EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR
Jennifer Berkemeier, Huntington Place | Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau nation Michigan/Meetings Michigan | Larisa Draves, Michigan Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus | Susan Estler, Travel Marquette | Linda Hoath, Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau | Mary Chris Hotchkiss, Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau | Mike Kent, Traverse City Tourism | Lindsay Krause, Special D Events | Mary Manier, Experience Grand Rapids | Jennifer Miller, Visit Detroit | Julie Oatman, Crystal Mountain | Kristy Poore, Destination Ann Arbor | Mandi VanOoteghem, Go Great Lakes Bay
ART DIRECTORS
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One aspect that bubbled to the surface was making sure make-or-break details don’t get lost in the planning. A member who plans gatherings for her association called out audiovisual (AV) service as an example. Don’t take that lightly, she advised. She went on to describe an important awards celebration where the top honor was to be presented with a video leading into it. The film was queued up, the crowd was ready, and then ... there was no video and no sound. She had contracted with the venue to provide the AV services. Everything was tested ahead of time as promised, but the staff had left the room, even though the contract called for them to be present during the awards. Now, she says she won’t sign a contract with a venue that includes AV provided on-site unless she gets positive references from other groups who have used those services first.
Kim Corcoran of Meetings Michigan and Destination Michigan also was present, and she noted certain venues are known for their phenomenal AV expertise. “You know you’re going to get top-notch AV [there] every time,” she says.
AV is just one of the details, among many, planners shouldn’t leave to chance. Luckily, there are many excellent resources throughout the state that can help you ensure no box is left unchecked, and Michigan Meetings + Events is here to provide that connection. Attendees might not notice when everything works—but they’ll certainly notice when it doesn’t.
KATHY GIBBONS
Editor kgibbons@greenspring.com
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MEETINGS ON THE
THUMBCOAST I MICHIGAN'S
WATERFRONT
Just an hour from Detroit and two hours from Lansing, Michigan's Thumbcoast offers picturesque meeting destinations along an international waterfront. With views of freighters, Caribbean-like blue waters, year-round activities, and cozy downtowns, these waterfront locations invite productivity and relaxation.
BLUE WATER CONVENTION CENTER AND DOUBLETREE BY HILTON PORT HURON
The venue features 36,000 sq. ft. of waterfront meeting space, 149 conveniently attached guest rooms, an onsite restaurant, and ample parking. Enjoy seamless shuttle access to downtown Port Huron, where you can explore charming boutiques, local wineries, diverse dining, and a vibrant social scene—complete with concerts, festivals, hidden speakeasies, and live theater.
CITYFLATS HOTEL
Perfect for corporate retreats, this waterfront venue offers 7,500 sq. ft. of meeting space and 18 guest rooms. Situated in downtown Port Huron, you’re steps away from a winery, boutiques, dining, live theater, and a lively social district.
ST. CLAIR INN
Ideal for groups of all sizes, this waterfront venue offers 13,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, 80 guest rooms, and three onsite cottages. It’s a short walk to St. Clair’s boutiques, brewery, dining, live theater, and entertainment.
INSPIRING PAGES
Build your summer reading list and discover fresh ideas with these books authored by event and marketing experts BY LINDEN
M. BAYLISS
THE ART OF GATHERING: HOW WE MEET AND WHY IT MATTERS BY PRIYA PARKER
“Every day we find ourselves in gatherings,” Priya Parker says in this human-centered guide to hosting. When you fully understand the meaning behind getting together, she says—to acknowledge, to learn, to challenge, and to change—you can learn how to organize gatherings that are relevant and memorable: from a thought-provoking conference to a backyard barbecue. Drawing on her experience as a strategic facilitator who has worked with organizations such as the World Economic Forum in Cologny, Switzerland, and New York City’s Museum of Modern Art, Parker explores why being a laid-back host is not as effective as you might think, the importance of having special event rules and guidelines for attendees to follow, and strategies for encouraging guests to interact authentically.
CONTAGIOUS: WHY THINGS CATCH ON BY JONAH BERGER
As any event planner or marketer knows, an event cannot be successful if nobody attends it. Disseminating intriguing research about why some things garner the coveted word-of-mouth transmission and others do not, “Contagious: Why Things Catch On” by Jonah Berger provides specific, actionable techniques for spreading information. A marketing professor at The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Berger details in this book six principles of “contagiousness” according to his research. Learn about the power of generating mental associations to keep your event top of mind, and how the desire for social status plays a major role in human behavior.
TREATING PEOPLE WELL: HOW TO MASTER SOCIAL SKILLS AND THRIVE IN EVERYTHING YOU DO BY LEA BERMAN AND JEREMY BERNARD
Written by former White House social secretaries (aka, event planners) Lea Berman and Jeremy Bernard, this guide to building relationships and navigating social situations might benefit anyone who is in the business of interacting with other humans. Within the pages, Berman and Bernard draw from their real-life experiences hosting events at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. in Washington, D.C., where they encountered a menagerie of politicians, celebrities, and foreign leaders in the process. The duo delves into subjects such as the three elements of confidence, how to use honesty wisely, and ways to keep a handle on those vast amounts of small details.
COMPILED BY KATHY GIBBONS
Priya Parker
Lea Berman
Jeremy Bernard
For a Picture-Perfect Setting, Just Add Lavender
When spring turns into summer, fragrant purple shoots grow into a pretty-as-a-picture backdrop for group outings to lavender farms. At Lavender Hill Farm in Boyne City, boasting 33 acres of lavender and rolling hills, groups can gather in an event barn and hire a caterer or bring in food. “It’s a 1920s barn, beautifully renovated, with chandeliers,”
says Event Director Merri-Sue Cardwell. The structure accommodates up to 200 attendees, and there is a smaller Copper Room that can hold about 40.
Some three hours south near Grand Rapids, Lavender Life Co. in Caledonia is expanding its offerings for groups. This year, the farm is presenting what CEO Vickie Bennett describes as “all-inclusive
experiences” that include bundles of lavender and charcuterie boards for groups to enjoy during a visit. A new patio with seating for up to 100 also is available at the farm this season. When lavender wanes, around August, 2 acres of sunflowers soak up the attention. –Kathy Gibbons
lavenderhillfarm.com | lavender-life.com
ANN ARBOR OPTIONS EXPAND
» THE VANGUARD ANN ARBOR , Autograph Collection, is expected to add a new dimension to the city’s downtown hospitality scene when it opens this spring with 164 guest rooms and 12,000 square feet of event and meeting space.
“The addition of the Vanguard hotel to downtown builds upon our destination’s already strong hotel and meeting infrastructure,” says Alfred Snow, Destination Ann Arbor director
of sales and service. “The increased capacity helps address the growing demand we have for conference and meeting space here.” The Vanguard Ann Arbor Director of Sales and Marketing Emily MacIntyre says the location is ideal for events that require proximity to the University of Michigan campus and downtown. The hotel is expected to open in mid-May. annarbor.org | marriott.com –Kathy Gibbons
Fields in bloom and lawn games (right) at Lavender Hill Farm in Boyne City
Rendering of The Vanguard Ann Arbor, Autograph Collection, lobby
MORE THAN GOALS Spark
Ignite their enthusiasm. Recharge and reconnect amidst stunning landscapes, delicious local cuisine, craft beverages and endless outdoor adventures. From paddleboarding on Lake Michigan to exploring charming towns, teams, trainees or anyone seeking a fresh perspective will feel inspired here. Meet with us in Southwest Michigan.
On the Straits and Narrow
St. Ignace is the northern gateway to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
BY DIANNA STAMPFLER
The first European settlers arrived in what is now called St. Ignace—named for St. Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus religious order—in 1671, making it the second-oldest European settlement in Michigan. Situated in the heart of the Straits of Mackinac, St. Ignace blends history and culture with unparalleled Great Lakes views.
VIBE: St. Ignace is known for its walkable, small-town charm, outdoor pastimes like kayaking and fishing, and special events that attract visitors year-round. Love fireworks? You can see them most Saturday nights between June and August. It also is a convenient base location for exploring the rest of the Upper Peninsula.
TRANSPORTATION: From the south, getting to St. Ignace means crossing the 5-mile Mackinac Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the Western Hemisphere. Each year, approximately 4 million vehicles drive its length, with 8,600-plus feet between anchorages. Two airports served by commercial airlines are within a 30-minute drive: Emmet County’s Pellston Regional Airport in the Lower Peninsula and the Chippewa County International Airport in Kincheloe to the north.
HOTELS: Recently, one of the city’s historic inns was renovated and rebranded as The Boardwalk Hotel, a seasonal boutique property with 15 luxury rooms including an elegant two-bedroom suite. The new Hampton Inn St. Ignace Lakefront Mackinac opened along the shores of Lake Huron in November last year and includes two meeting rooms: The Mackinac and The Huron. Situated along Lake Huron, Kewadin Casino St. Ignace, with its 81-room hotel, is the only waterfront casino in the Straits of Mackinac area.
VENUES: Kewadin Casino St. Ignace provides outdoor concert space for up to 10,000 attendees, as well as a 17,600-squarefoot event center with seating for 1,800. Little Bear East Arena & Community Center is open year-round for meetings, conferences, and other events. The Quality Inn and bed-and-breakfast Colonial House Inn also offers conference space.
RESTAURANTS: The Driftwood Motel Restaurant & Sports Bar is open year-round and features a pub menu, live music, and a 27-room on-site motel. It is easy to spot Mackinac Grille & Patio Bar with its authentic train caboose parked along the waterfront. The seasonal eatery is known for its happy hour, regional menu items like Great Lakes whitefish, and decadent desserts. While in town, be sure to try the Upper Peninsula’s signature meal—the pasty. This meat-and-vegetable-filled Cornish handheld is a regional delicacy.
MUST-SEES AND -DOS: The Museum of Ojibwa Culture is within Father Marquette Mission Park, a national historic landmark on the north end of town. Nearby Castle Rock rises 200 feet toward the sky and was known as Pontiac’s Lookout by the Sault Tribe of Chippewa (Ojibwe) Indians, the region’s original inhabitants. Be sure to get a picture with the larger-than-life sculpture of Paul Bunyan and Babe, and Victorian-era Mackinac Island is just a ferry boat ride away for day trips when in season. stignace.com
PHOTOS
FROM ABOVE) St. Ignace Visitors Bureau (2), The Boardwalk Hotel
Hiking Castle Rock; Below, from left: St. Ignace shoreline; The Boardwalk Hotel
Graffiti Murals From Rebel Nell
Bring out meeting attendees’ inner artists with Detroit-based jewelry boutique Rebel Nell, founded in 2013 by Amy Peterson and Diana Roginson. Planners might book its engaging Mural Making Experience, during which participants create colorful designs on a white canvas based on a series of prompts. A word, logo, or other symbol is blocked out by a sticker during creation and removed to reveal a hidden message at the conclusion. The activity is among Rebel Nell’s multiple offerings available to planners, which also include customizable swag and gifts like coasters, key chains, pens, and journals. –Kathy Gibbons
rebelnell.com
Corcoran is the president of Destination Michigan and executive director of Meetings Michigan.
ON THE GROUND WITH KIM CORCORAN
» AS PRESIDENT OF DESTINATION MICHIGAN, Kim Corcoran plans and attends a lot of meetings, and also manages trade shows and events. As executive director of Meetings Michigan, her role is a mix of meeting planner and destination marketer. “I’m the planner for many of my events, but I’m also an advocate and strategic partner in promoting the state of Michigan in the meetings industry,” she says. “I wear both hats so I can see both sides of the hospitality world.” She shared some short takes with Michigan Meetings + Events on trends she is seeing lately, as well as general insight as an expert in the field.
M+E: WHAT DO YOU SEE HAPPENING WITH FOOD PREFERENCES?
KC: People want healthier fare. They want fresh. They want local. And they want all their dietary restrictions met. So, I’m seeing a lot of build-your-own-type buffets where people can pick and choose whatever they want.
M+E: HOW COMMON ARE OFF-SITE OUTINGS?
KC: Several years ago, people would just go to a conference and they’d never leave their hotel. Now, attendees really want to engage in the destination. I think destination marketing organizations and convention and visitors bureaus are really helping to foster that. They want people to see what else there is, they want them to shop the retail, and they want them to go to the restaurants and the evening establishments.
M+E: ANY SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO SCORE A PLANNER’S BUSINESS?
KC: Someone who has abundant communication is going to win the business, because people are busy and not everyone is getting back to planners. I always say the best way to win the business is to actually want it and go after it. After that, I think planners are looking for properties that are going to be creative and not just send them back a proposal with the standard template.
M+E: CONVERSELY, HOW CAN YOU LOSE A PLANNER’S BUSINESS?
KC: If they send out a request for proposal and you don’t get back to them, that’s one way to surely lose a deal. I also think certain clauses in contracts can be deal-breakers. Some [venues] are adding many new clauses. … I understand why
they need to add them, but if there are three facilities [planners are] looking at and other things are equal, if one is asking for 12 additional clauses, they’re going to say, ‘Yeah, no thanks.’
M+E: TELL US ABOUT A COOL EVENT YOU’VE BEEN TO RECENTLY.
KC: We put on a wreath-making workshop for clients in St. Louis. We wanted to have something that would attract meeting planners to come to an event in November, so we brought in a TEDx speaker who also is a florist. She taught a wreath-making class that used humor and tied in business lessons and life lessons, and people loved it. We did it over lunch. Providing a creative, unique event is what makes you stand out to your attendees. –Kathy Gibbons
destinationmi.com
michigan.org/meetings-michigan
Kim
Detroit skyline
BREAK OUT OF THE BOARDROOM THIS SPRING
Host your next meeting where fresh air and inspiration come standard. Enjoy team-building activities like golfing, hiking, and wine tasting, or rise to new heights at SkyBridge Michigan.
Get started today: PETOSKEYA RE A .CO M/MEETINGS
Muskegon: A Waterfront Gem
Planners seeking maritime charm and convenient modern venues need look no further
BY WENSDY VON BUSKIRK
» NESTLED ALONG THE SHORELINE of Lake Michigan, Muskegon is a blend of stunning beaches, rich maritime history, and a walkable downtown. With the addition of recently expanded jet service to Chicago last year and a new convention center in 2021, Muskegon is fast becoming a premier spot for meetings and events. In fact, the city’s charm and excellent facilities have positioned it as a top choice for meeting planners. “Muskegon offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban excitement, making it an ideal destination for your next conference or meeting,” says Sarah Langlois, sales executive at Visit Muskegon.
The Michigan Association for Local Public Health (MALPH) also sees it that way. MALPH held its Michigan Premier Public Health Conference in Muskegon last year in mid-October. More than 500 members gathered at Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center for three days of sessions, breakout groups, and networking. Attendees spent their evenings exploring downtown Muskegon’s burgeoning restaurant scene. The group was
so impressed that they booked the event’s return this year and in 2029. “We were wowed,” says MALPH Director of Member Services Jodie Shaver. “It was one of our best conferences yet.”
The most populated city on Michigan’s western shore and the seat of Muskegon County, Muskegon is framed by the stunning waters of Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake. Historically rooted in logging and foundries, the city has undergone significant revitalization with cleaned-up waterways and new developments. Today, Muskegon is a vibrant destination for events of all sizes.
Muskegon is easily accessible by car, located 40 minutes from Grand Rapids, 3 1/2 hours from Detroit, and three hours from Chicago. For air travelers, Muskegon County Airport connects to Chicago via Denver Air Connection, which recently began providing service to Chicago O’Hare International Airport, offering easy access to national and international flights. The airport’s recent multiphase $24 million renovation, including terminal and taxiway upgrades, is set to complete this year.
Lakeside events deck at Muskegon Country Club
While staying downtown, visitors might enjoy the convenience of walking or taking a ride with Muskegon Trolley Co., which has trolleys available from March 15 to Nov. 15, excluding major holidays. Holiday Coach Co. offers transportation options such as motor coaches, minibuses, and sedans for groups.
STANDOUT VENUES
Downtown Muskegon’s lodging options with event space include two prominent hotels. The 200-room Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center combines modern design with practicality, having undergone a major renovation in 2019. Attendees might enjoy comprehensive amenities that include a rooftop deck, an indoor pool overlooking Muskegon Lake, and 10,000 square feet of event space. Just a short walk from downtown attractions, it is ideally situated for social and business events and is attached to the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center, which provides an additional 28,000 square feet of event and pre-function space. Meanwhile, the Shoreline Inn & Conference Center, Ascend Hotel Collection, is just across the street from the convention center and offers a memorable lakeside retreat. With its retro-trendy vibe, this facility features 140 guest rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and flexible meeting spaces totaling nearly 7,000 square feet. Visitors might unwind in charming poolside cabanas while taking in picturesque views of Muskegon Lake.
The VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center has made large-scale conferences possible in downtown Muskegon since it opened in 2021, with 37,700 square feet of total event space, 8,100 square feet of pre-function space, and 13 breakout rooms. Between the convention center and Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center, gatherings of up to 2,500 can be accommodated. Similarly to the Shoreline Inn, the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center offers up beautiful vistas of adjacent Muskegon Lake.
Katie DeWeerd, director of sales at Parkland Properties of Michigan in Muskegon, says the convention center has made an impact year-round. “Our goal with the convention center was to create foot traffic and energy downtown during the shoulder seasons,” she says, noting the opening of new restaurants and bars nearby in recent years as well. “We have seen the impact with investments such as Socibowl by Pigeon Hill, Legends Bar and Grille, and The Early Owl being made across the street.”
Muskegon also offers diverse venues that showcase its charm. For example, Muskegon Country Club is perched atop 130 acres of sand dunes near the shores of Muskegon Lake. This historic venue, established in 1908 and now open to the public, was renovated in 2023 by owner RedWater Events. Its many versatile event spaces include a main ballroom that can accommodate 150 and a deck that overlooks Muskegon Lake. In the summer, live music adds a jubilant touch to the upscale, casual setting.
Clockwise: Muskegon Country Club; The Delta Ballroom at Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center; VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center
Another standout option is the Frauenthal Center, Muskegon’s crown jewel of historic theaters. The facility offers a range of meeting spaces, from the intimate Frau Lounge to its ornate main theater, which can seat up to 1,750 attendees. A new third-floor venue and deck, scheduled to open early May, will enhance its already plentiful options for meeting planners.
ADVENTURE ALL AROUND
The dining scene in Muskegon is another draw for visitors. Popular options include Dockers Fish House, which sits just steps away from Pere Marquette Park beach and is known for its fresh seafood and panoramas of Muskegon Lake. Nipote’s Italian Kitchen serves authentic Italian cuisine, including salmon Florentine and mushroom ravioli. The Lake House Waterfront Grille provides fine dining with even more lake vistas for attendees to enjoy.
For team building, groups can visit Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. or its companion venue, Socibowl by Pigeon Hill. The latter offers three spaces in one: a full-service restaurant and bar, duckpin bowling alley, and an indoor beer garden. Other activities include darts and lawn games. Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. founder Michael Brower describes Socibowl as having “a big-city feel in a small town.”
Groups might immerse themselves in Muskegon’s maritime history by touring the SS Milwaukee Clipper, a retired automobile ferry and passenger ship docked on Muskegon Lake that features a large collection of original art deco-style furniture. Attendees also might enjoy visiting the Muskegon Museum of Art with its collection of more than 5,000 works and docent-guided tours for parties of eight or more. Outdoor enthusiasts should check out
Pere Marquette Park, Muskegon State Park, and P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, all offering sandy beaches and picturesque dune trails.
For winter visits, Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park provides a rare public luge experience, as well as ice skating and cross-country skiing. Summer activities include rock climbing, zip lining, and archery, making the area a true year-round destination for shorter team outings or multiday retreats. “All our attractions are used for group team-building, corporate outings, or just fun,” says Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park Community Relations Manager Bill Bailey.
About 15 minutes away from Muskegon, Michigan’s Adventure amusement park and WildWater Adventure water park present more than 60 rides, slides, and attractions that include seven roller coasters. Event space for catered lunches, as well as park buyout options, are available for corporate and nonprofit groups.
One particular event and its planners have taken advantage of Muskegon’s amenities and hospitality for decades. The Miss Michigan Scholarship Program has been a Muskegon tradition since 1951. Contestants stay at the Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center and compete at the Frauenthal Center. As the program celebrated its 85th anniversary last year, participants enjoyed local experiences like dining at Dr. Rolf’s Barbeque.
Miss Michigan Scholarship Program State Executive Director Paula Dewall praises Muskegon’s hospitality. “It’s a small beach town, but downtown Muskegon is really growing and everything’s walkable,” she says. “That makes it a great venue.”
visitmuskegon.org
Muskegon County, Pigeon Hill Brewing Co.
Frauenthal Center auditorium and stage; Left, from above: Muskegon Museum of Art; The Brewer’s Lounge at Pigeon Hill Brewing Co.
Boatwerks (Holland)
The Butler (Saugatuck)
Gravity (Grand Rapids)
Macatawa (Holland)
Muskegon Country Club
Ravines (Saugatuck)
Sunnybrook (Grandville)
StoneWater (Caledonia)
Thornapple Pointe (Grand Rapids)
Thousand Oaks (Grand Rapids)
Watermark (Cascade)
Back to the Land
Farms and wineries offer memorable group dining experiences BY
» TUCKED AWAY on the 158-acre grounds of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids is a threequarter-scale model of the farmhouse that co-founder Lena Meijer grew up in. Meijer Gardens occasionally hosts group meals at the farmhouse, which is surrounded by trees, vegetable gardens, and flower beds.
Last September, the staff threw what they call a “live-fire dinner,” which had been offered as an auction item. It marked the property’s first hosted dinner where the entire meal was cooked and plated around a huge campfire, with some of the produce coming from its own gardens and fruit trees.
“It just had the whole farm theme throughout, including the decor and the place settings,” says Executive Chef Andrew Krause.
“We really like to amp up the whole experience of it to make it really unique.”
Farms offer a welcome departure from settings more typical of a meeting or event.
At Granor Farm in Three Oaks, up to 60 can dine in a custom-built greenhouse in the heart of the farm that includes a kitchen, store, and distillery that uses grain grown on-site. “The idea of what we do is connecting people to how food is grown,” says General Manager Anna Rafalski, noting Granor Farm sources meat and other items not produced on-site from other farms in the area. “Each menu is connected to the harvest list of that week,” she says.
Culinary Director Abra Berens says it is common for corporate groups to stay in nearby hotels and come to Granor Farm
for dinners, retreats, or celebrations. She notes many of them are drawn to Granor Farm’s mission, which encompasses creating an environment that is respectful of the land it cultivates, the products it grows, and the community it serves.
Near Traverse City, Jacob’s Farm has two venues where meals can be served. Its Orchard View Barn, with views of the 40-acre estate, can hold up to 200 people. The original two-story Centennial Barn has been renovated but retains its original rustic theme, featuring an open-air deck along with its Centennial dining room that hosts up to 125. In fair weather, gatherings also might be held on the grounds. General Manager Ed Blackburn says Executive Chef Mark Pritchard works with planners to design food-and-beverage packages that meet their needs and budget.
For a farm meal experience with an altruistic twist, consider the “Cook for a Cause” program at Zingerman’s Cornman Farms in Dexter. Affiliated with Zingerman’s Delicatessen in nearby Ann Arbor, Cornman Farms commonly puts on events for groups up to 75, says Managing Partner Tabitha Mason. Structures on the 27-acre farm were restored from their 1834 foundations and now feature a chef’s garden, classic farmhouse, four-season barn, tent pavilion, and an exhibition kitchen. The staff grows produce on-site and also pickles and preserves certain fruits and vegetables so attendees can get a taste of the local harvest even in the offseason.
KATHY GIBBONS
From above: Outdoor gathering at Granor Farm in Three Oaks; Dessert and open-fire cooking in Grand Rapids at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Clockwise: Group dining in Dexter at Zingerman’s Cornman Farms; Farm-fresh dessert from Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant in Buchanan; Private dining in Granor Farm’s Greenhouse; A toast at Chateau Chantal near Traverse City
“What people love about the farm is it’s so close to Ann Arbor but feels like you are completely in the country,” Mason explains. With “Cook for a Cause,” groups start out with a farm tour before proceeding to make and assemble meals that are transported to a nearby Ronald McDonald House. “A group of 25 people can feed 50 families,” Mason says. After that, they sit for their own dinner prepared by Cornman Farms staff.
Multiple Michigan wineries also offer farm-to-table—and glass—experiences.
Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant in Buchanan partners with local farmers to create menus for a series it calls “Farm to Tabor.” Matthew Moersch, CEO and partner of the winery’s owner, Moersch Hospitality Group, says, “Not only do we make all of our own wine, beer, and spirits, but we also have farmers right on the same block. ” Tabor Hill can seat up to 230 people under an outdoor tent or up to 80 in several indoor spaces. “It’s a beautiful setting,” Moersch says. “You look over all of our vineyards.”
Chateau Chantal on Old Mission Peninsula near Traverse City serves up idyllic surroundings amid rolling hills, vineyards, and stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay. “What is often different [about a winery] from a traditional farm is you are seeing the value-added aspect of farming while visiting, via winemaking and retail sales,” notes President and CEO Marie-Chantal Dalese.
Chateau Chantal also offers private cooking classes. Plus, the winery hosts seasonally themed wine-pairing dinners that often include tours of the vineyard (weather permitting) and cellars. “The wine is what drives our menu,” Dalese says. “We start with a seasonal selection appropriate for the weather and build an interesting menu around that. Wine first!”
YOU’VE GATHERED your senior leadership together to deal with a crisis.
You want to get your employees’ perspective on the market. You want to bring together your remote employees and those working in-house in an offsite setting.
We hear you. At The Homestead, we value your needs and those of your attendees. You want to hold a productive meeting, where employees are engaged and will contribute. Not one where they’re tapping their feet and checking the time to see when they can finally leave the stuffy room.
The Homestead isn’t one of those large, faceless facilities, where you meet in a cavernous hall that’s been chopped up into smaller spaces with air walls that may slightly dampen the noise from next door. Our meeting spaces are in five separate buildings, sized appropriately for ten to 170 attendees.
We have something nobody else does: our location on Lake Michigan inside the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
They all feature the latest technology, and we provide all the necessary materials and amenities, just like the big facilities in Traverse City, Acme, Grand Rapids, or Lansing.
But we have something nobody else does: our location on Lake Michigan inside the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Miles of sandy beaches and pristine waters outside your door. An Arnold Palmer Signature Course just up the road. Award-winning restaurants and wineries. Miles of trails. All in the area chosen by the viewers of Good Morning America as the “Most Beautiful Place in America.”
With all that, the question isn’t why you would want to host your meeting at The Homestead. The question is why you’d want to go anywhere else.
Call us today at 231-334-5100 to inquire about how we can help you.
Best Place, Best Meetings
Discover a delightful place for uniquely productive meetings. Where?
It’s on Lake Michigan inside the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the place chosen as the “Most Beautiful Place in America” by Good Morning America.
Meet in rooms that are as comfortable as they are beautiful.
Stroll the beaches, play the Palmer course, enjoy the food.
Relax in a small hotel, inn, or lodge. It’s the place your team would choose. .
Planning With Purpose
build community and company loyalty by executing a successful philanthropic event
By Natalie Compagno & Greg Freitas
Philanthropic events are about more than just raising funds—they can create a sense of purpose, belonging, and identity. At their core, these events revolve around three powerful pillars: bringing people with shared passions together, fostering connections in a joyful and meaningful setting, and, most importantly, raising the resources and awareness needed to make a difference. When executed correctly, philanthropic events reward worthwhile causes and spur attendees to feel motivated, activated, and inspired.
Many organizations recognize the importance of philanthropy as part of their corporate identity. For meeting planners, creating an event that uplifts a company’s mission while driving meaningful change can be a rewarding challenge. But how can you ensure the event delivers on its promises? By focusing on purpose, strategy, and creativity, planners can design an experience that leaves a lasting impression while maximizing results.
“The events are one of the most important things we do for the charity,” says Marshall Mirarchi, president of K9 Hurricane’s Heroes, a nonprofit based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, that subsidizes veterinary care for retired law enforcement dogs. “It’s where all our relationships are made. Events are a great way to raise money, but more importantly, help us network, build trust within the community, provide opportunities for volunteers who want to get involved, and create content.”
The goal of any charity event is raising funds for deserv ing causes—but the methods matter. From selecting the right marketing strategy to incorporating diverse revenue streams like auctions or sponsorships, effective fundraising requires thoughtful planning and clear communication. The chosen event spaces also make a difference. As Andrea Ikata, director of events at Four Seasons Hotel Seattle in Washington, notes, “We aim to deeply understand our clients’ goals and vision, working closely with nonprofits to ensure their events are both impactful and seamless.”
If nothing else, stick to core axioms to guide your vision, notes Silvia San Martin, vice president of sales at JW Marriott Nashville in Tennessee. “The four C’s of fundraising—clear and compelling vision, consistent communication, competent follow-up, and champions in the community—are essential for maximizing success,” she says.
maximize potential
A successful philanthropic event begins with understanding its deeper purpose within the organization. More than fundraising, such events are opportunities to reflect company values, foster goodwill, and forge meaningful connections. Aligning the event with the organization’s mission statement ensures authenticity that can resonate with staff, clients, and the broader community. Consumers increasingly favor brands that give back, and employees feel pride in supporting causes that reflect their workplace’s ethos. Choosing a cause that is authentic to the company’s heartbeat—such as sustainability initiatives for eco-conscious brands, or children’s charities for family-focused businesses—sends a clear, consistent message, fostering trust and emotional connections in potential donors.
Clockwise from above left: Emcee speaking at Block 41 auction; K9 Hurricane’s Heroes supporting nonprofit Paws of Honor at fundraiser; Chefs Joshua King, Molly DeMers, and Del Young at James Beard Foundation event at Four Seasons Hotel Seattle; Actor Martin Short and speaker Greg Anglea at Harrah’s All-In 4 Change event
Localizing the impact of donations also creates an environment where businesses are incentivized to contribute and participate. Don Boshears, general manager at Block 41 in Seattle, sees a trend toward directing assistance to the community. He says Block 41’s charity events in partnership with Evergreen Treatment Services, which helps patients with addiction, have been especially rewarding. “At our events, we recognize people from the neighborhood who have gotten off the streets. It makes us proud to be part of [the Evergreen Treatment Services] fund.”
But philanthropy for a worthy cause demands more than good intentions—it requires strategic planning and creative execution. From ticket pricing to diversifying revenue streams, every decision shapes the event’s financial success and impact. “Ticket sales alone won’t meet your goals,” Boshears notes. “You want sponsors who will donate. And then you want to sell entire tables, and anything that will promote paddle raises.” Diversifying revenue sources enhances results. Tiered giving options are designed to include every attendee, broaden appeal, and inspire everyone to contribute. Silent and live auctions, sponsorships, raffles, and donation-matching campaigns not only boost giving but also engage participants and offset costs. Interactive elements, such as bingo or karaoke, can help sustain participation and momentum throughout the event.
Clear, compelling communication also inspires generosity. Highlight the tangible impact of donations through stories, visuals, and testimonials from beneficiaries. Connecting contributions to real-life outcomes fosters emotional engagement and long-term support. A thoughtful strategy rooted in creativity and connection ensures the philanthropic event achieves both financial success and a lasting impact on attendees.
choose the right format
It is important to select a format that aligns with the cause, resonates with the audience, and mirrors organizational missions. From formal galas to fun runs or family festivals, the event type sets the tone, shapes attendance, and amplifies the message.
“Know your audience,” says Jonathan Booker, event planner at Brighton Jones, a nationwide wealth-management firm that is headquartered in Seattle. “The success of the event depends on how well you speak to your audience’s needs. Some people are not as comfortable with plated dinner galas. They might prefer a wine tasting or an event at a brewery. Above all, you want your most engaged members to feel comfortable.”
The intended cause can and should guide the decision. When planning an event with a health-focused charity, for example, you might opt for a fitness challenge, while a children’s cause could benefit from family-friendly activities. Pairing the format with the need strengthens the narrative and deepens connections.
“The success of the event depends on how well you speak to your audience’s needs. Some people are not as comfortable with plated dinner galas. They might prefer a wine tasting or an event at a brewery. Above all, you want your most engaged members to feel comfortable.”
–JONATHAN BOOKER, EVENT PLANNER, BRIGHTON JONES
Annual event In the Pink raises money for the National Cancer Society of archipelago nation Turks and Caicos, southeast of The Bahamas. “Selecting the right mix of activities for In the Pink is essential to its success,” says Karen Whitt, vice president of sales and marketing at The Palms Turks and Caicos resort, where the event is held. “This year’s event spans from exclusive VIP shopping, a charity raffle, and high tea to the lively Pink Poker night— each carefully designed to bring our community together in joyful, meaningful ways. By offering a variety of experiences, we ensure everyone feels con nected and engaged, all while supporting a cause close to our hearts.” Interactive elements like trivia, games, raffles, or auctions create dynamic, memorable experiences that encourage active involvement. Entertainment—whether from a celebrity, band, or other talent—energizes the room and sustains enthusiasm.
Jill Barrett, the senior vice president and resort manager of Harrah’s Resort Southern California, just north of San Diego in Funner, recognizes the importance of making fundraising events stand out from the busy gala season calendar. “Our greatest charitable program of the year, All-in 4 Change, is a philanthropic initiative that launched here at the resort nearly 10 years ago and aims to celebrate San Diego nonprofit organizations across the county with over $150,000 granted to participating recipients each year,” she says. “It’s important these events feel special and meaningful, so we have welcomed celebrity emcees Jane Lynch and Martin Short over the past two years.”
Innovative ideas command attention—as well as attendee donation dollars. Jennifer Arnold is director of catering at Perry Lane Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Savannah, in Georgia. She has overseen many creative fundraising concepts during her tenure. “We can host an art battle, inviting people from the community to sketch pieces, and the winners get their art hung on our bar walls. Participants enter with a fee. And we have done ‘Pie in the Face,’ an event where employees paid money to throw pies at managers. It was so much fun, and we raised over $2,000 in a few hours.”
boost engagement
Engagement is the lifeblood of a highly successful philanthropic event. Inspiring action requires thoughtful planning and creative strategies that amplify attendance, deepen connections, and maximize contributions—all while keeping the cause front and center.
Personal, emotional connections further inspire generosity. “Nothing replaces face-to-face connections,” says Booker of Brighton Jones. “No matter how inspiring the presentation is, face-to-face is better. People who are part of a community are more likely to donate. The executive director should make connections at the event. Either work the room or find people who can. Work time into the agenda to create space for that connection.”
Communication is key, Booker notes, and organizers shouldn’t be shy. “Set expectations ahead of time,” he says. “Pre-event communications make it clear that it’s a fundraiser and not just a party.” He advises suggesting a donation so people come ready to give that amount, and letting them know how much you need and what it will do. “Draw a straight line between someone donating and the organization using that money to advance the cause,” he continues. “It’s better to have an event with the 100 most engaged champions than with 500 people who are less engaged. Activate every single person in the room.”
By blending creativity with meaningful engagement, you can boost participation at your philanthropic events and inspire attendees to continue supporting the mission even after the program concludes. Mirarchi of K9 Hurricane’s Heroes says thefunds raised for the charity have helped cover the medical expenses of over 150 retired canines. “That is no small feat,” he says. “Connecting with people at these events, close to our cause, who want to help is where it all starts. K9 Hurricane’s Heroes wouldn’t be where it is today without them.”
From above: K9 Hurricane’s Heroes annual wiffle ball charity event in Bluemont, Virginia; Live auction paddle raises at Block 41
FOR PLANNERS JAC K POT
Casino resorts deliver with entertainment, expansive venues, and first-rate catering under one roof
BY KATHY GIBBONS
M
eeting planners looking for a venue where everything they need is in one place will find casino resorts might just fit the bill. “We have an all-inclusive entertainment experience right within the resort,” says Jenni Muscat, director of hotel sales and catering for downtown’s MGM Grand Detroit. “They don’t have to leave the property to get the full experience. Another hotel venue might not have that.”
The same is true for many other casino resorts. Expansive spaces that can be used for live performances double as areas for trade shows, conferences, conventions, and galas. That means stages and audiovisual expertise also are usually available. These resorts often have the flexibility to create smaller rooms for breakout sessions.
Many gaming hot spots also have their own restaurants and catering offerings, in addition to bars, spas, pools, and hot tubs. A few casino resorts provide on-site golf courses for aftermeeting relaxation or team-building outings. And one even has a cake shop that supplies confections in-house while offering customized special-occasion cakes to the public.
Properties like Hollywood Casino at Greektown, MGM Grand Detroit, and MotorCity Casino Hotel—also in downtown Detroit—are within walking distance of additional attractions that make their locations even more desirable for groups. Others, including FireKeepers Casino Hotel in Battle Creek and Four Winds New Buffalo, are in proximity to major freeways.
From left: Silver Creek Event Center at Four Winds New Buffalo; Playing craps at FireKeepers Casino Hotel; Quartz Boardroom at MGM Grand Detroit
THE SPACES
Catering Sales Senior Manager Megan Cole at FireKeepers Casino Hotel in Battle Creek says its 17,500-square-foot event center contains everything a large group might need. FireKeepers hosts conferences, trade shows, expos, and the like. Several boardrooms are available, two of which were added as part of a 2021 expansion that also brought a second eight-story hotel tower. In total, FireKeepers has 446 guest rooms.
The event center can be partitioned to accommodate a general session, meals, exhibitor displays, and breakout meetings, for example. Cole says 250 is the number that works best for the space for a conference or meeting, although FireKeepers has done similar events with as many as 325.
Island Resort & Casino in the Upper Peninsula community of Harris is in the process of expanding its convention space, which will be able to host larger conventions when the expansion finishes this June. “It definitely creates the opportunity for us to expand,” says Player Services Manager Robin Bourdeau. “We already handle a lot of larger meetings. This just allows for multiple events and larger corporate conventions.”
The $19 million expansion project includes 16,900 additional square feet of event space with
capacity to accommodate 750 attendees seated and up to 1,200 for larger expos and conventions. The renovation also includes a new nine-hole golf course and a golf shop. Boudreau notes that with 454 total guest rooms, Island Resort & Casino is the largest hotel between Harris and Milwaukee, cities which are 220 miles apart.
Kewadin Casinos has been working on an expansive, multimillion-dollar upgrade of its Kewadin Casino Sault Ste. Marie hotel. On the heels of an exterior renovation, interior remodeling of the hotel’s tower are expected to wrap up this winter. This casino resort offers more than 30,000 square feet of meeting and convention space along with 311 hotel rooms.
Farther south in the Upper Peninsula, Kewadin Casino St. Ignace also offers convention facilities, including an expansive 17,600-square-foot event center that can accommodate up to 1,800 theater-style, 800 reception-style, or 650 for a banquet. Plus, the casino resort provides an outdoor event space and an 81-room hotel.
THE LOCATIONS
Director of Hotel Sales and Catering Jenni Muscat describes MGM Grand Detroit as “an urban resort” because of its location in the heart of downtown Detroit. “I don’t know that people expect a luxury resort experience in Detroit even though the city is trending,” she says. “But when people come and see it, that’s what sets us apart.”
Likewise, Hollywood Casino at Greektown is downtown and part of an iconic city neighborhood once home to many Greek immigrants and rife with Greek
“We have an all-inclusive entertainment experience right within the resort.”
–JENNI MUSCAT, director of hotel sales and catering, MGM
Detroit
Grand
From above: Atrium at Kewadin Casino St. Ignace; Desserts in the works at FireKeepers Casino Hotel
“Being in the middle of [Michigan] is perfect for statewide events—location is definitely one of the big keys for us.”
restaurants, bars, and other popular attractions. “It’s also in the middle of a lot of things that are going on here, with Ford Field [home of the NFL’s Detroit Lions] and Little Caesars Arena [home to the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings] down the street,” says Miyoshia Williams, Hollywood Casino at Greektown director of hotel operations. “A lot of our guests like the fact they can walk out our front door and down the street and have different restaurants and bars accessible literally walking distance away.” With 399 guest rooms, Hollywood Casino at Greektown presents 12 different spaces for groups to gather that range from a 1,700-square-foot ballroom to more intimate settings for smaller groups.
Also downtown, MotorCity Casino Hotel is a AAA Four-Diamond hotel containing 67,000 square feet of meeting space, including “three of the most exclusive rooms you will find in Detroit,” according to Director of Sales and Catering Michelle Duffy. “Amnesia and Iridescence are on the 16th floor of the hotel with grand views of downtown Detroit and the gorgeous Canadian riverbank,” she says. “And Sound Board Theatre is an extraordinary space.” These standout spaces are in addition to 100,000 square feet of gaming, the two-story FanDuel Sportsbook sports-betting
area, a steakhouse, and spa. “Attendees do not have to search for extracurricular activities,” Duffy says. “It’s all here under one roof.”
Four Winds New Buffalo is set on scenic property in a rural setting just minutes from Lake Michigan. According to Director of Sales and Catering Ron Sorce, its Silver Creek Event Center is one of the largest venues in southwest Michigan, with 17,000 square feet of adaptable event space that can accommodate banquet seating for up to 1,000 people or as many as 1,600 attendees theater-style. There also is a hotel with 416 guest rooms and suites. The casino resort is easily accessible from Interstate 94, and a little over an hour’s drive from Chicago or Kalamazoo.
Along with its expansive event center, groups like FireKeepers Casino Hotel’s central location in Battle Creek and easy accessibility via freeway, Cole says. That is one reason why the Michigan Statewide Payroll Conference was first held at FireKeepers in 2016. The conference has been back four times since. “We have participants from all parts of Michigan, and we found this was a great central location,” says Christy Quick, facilities chair for the event. She notes attendees like returning to FireKeepers Casino Hotel because everything—the rooms, meeting spaces, food, entertainment, audiovisual, and special touches— consistently works for their education-focused event attended by about 150.
From left: Eagle Boardroom at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort; Theater-style setup at Four Winds New Buffalo’s Silver Creek Event Center
Locale is also one of the attractions at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant, says Sales Manager Matt Ames. “Being in the middle of [Michigan] is perfect for statewide events,” he says. “Location is definitely one of the big keys for us.”
But Soaring Eagle offers more than just a convenient site. With 516 guest rooms and 26,000 square feet of function space, a food court, multiple restaurant choices including Ruth’s Chris Steak House, the casino, a spa, sports bar, pool, and indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, the amenities list is long. Soaring Eagle also has a 35,000-square-foot entertainment hall available for planners. The hall is frequently used for large general sessions and trade shows, and many who book it are repeat customers.
THE FLEXIBILITY
Because it is not unusual for casino resort staff to host a huge musical act one day and a convention for hundreds of attendees the next, they are flexible about pretty much every aspect of an event. For example, Ames says Soaring Eagle will work with clients when it comes to its attrition policies. If planners cannot fill all the hotel guest rooms they booked with attendees, he says it is usually fairly easy to book the rooms with casino-goers.
Food-and-beverage staff at casino resorts work hard to create menus that accommodate the needs of individual meeting planners. “We annually refresh our banquet menus and have seasonal menu options as well,” says Cole at FireKeepers, where anyone with a sweet tooth might be happy to discover the resort has a dedicated cake shop. “We do a lot with custom desserts,” Cole adds.
The Cake Shop is open to the general public, even creating and offering deliveries for wedding cakes. A meeting planner might opt to order a personalized cake for an event. “A lot of times groups might do a custom cake with the company’s logo to celebrate the anniversary of the corporation, a birthday within the group, or they might incorporate a company logo in some edible chocolate or fondant on a cupcake,” Cole says.
Miyoshia Williams of Hollywood Casino at Greektown says the Detroit casino resort offers a huge selection of food with a menu that allows planners to order from preset choices or choose their own options for each meal. At MGM Grand Detroit, four specialty kitchens support event dining.
Ron Sorce of Four Winds New Buffalo explains that adaptable configurations of space in its Silver Creek Event Center mean staff can be flexible and meet planners’ desire to include fluid activities, as opposed to attendees being stuck in the same room all day.
“Silver Creek Event Center allows for setup of separate general sessions and breakout sessions along with the meals,” he says. “We’ve also seen the shift of meeting planners including more team-building activities, both on-property and off-property, using our shuttle service for transportation needs.”
In fact, it is flexibility on all fronts that helps create a new experience every time, says Cole at FireKeepers. “Our space is so flexible,” she says. “We do corporate, we do social, but we also host events for our patrons— concerts, meet and greets, giveaways. It’s always growing and changing and fun.”
Iridescence event space at MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit
— 2025 GUIDE —
ACROSS THE STATE, CASINOS AFFORD PLANNERS ONE-STOP SHOPS FOR MEETINGS AND EVENTS
Experience the perfect mix of business, pleasure, and fun in the breathtaking Upper Peninsula. Ideally located between Lower Michigan and Wisconsin, the Island Resort & Casino Convention Center is the perfect hub for regional and national events. At the completion of its expansion in June this year, it will offer nearly 30,000 square feet of flexible convention space.
This Vegas-style casino has over 450 guest rooms, an adults-only saltwater pool, a spa, headline entertainment, free weekly bands and comedy shows, and dining options that include a panoramic 12th-floor steakhouse. The casino also is home to two championship golf courses named Sweetgrass and Sage Run. Resort amenities include the luxurious Drift Spa, offering a variety of high-end services, including salon services, mani-pedis, massage therapy, body treatments, float therapy, facials, red-light therapy, and more. Do not settle for the ordinary—reach out now to make your business event an unforgettable experience. Contact Convention Manager Jill Esterline at 906-723-2141.
For four decades, Kewadin Casino Sault Ste. Marie has been a premier destination for entertainment, gaming, and events. This year, it is celebrating this 40-year milestone with a bold, fresh new look. Experience the perfect blend of history and modern comfort at its newly renovated casino. From upgraded gaming spaces to new on-site guest rooms, Kewadin Casino Sault Ste. Marie is elevating every aspect of your stay. Plus, enjoy a fully nonsmoking environment for a cleaner, more comfortable visit. And coming soon—get ready to indulge in a one-of-a-kind dining experience at the all-new Black Rock Bar & Grill.
Nestled in the heart of historic, breathtaking Sault Ste. Marie, Kewadin Casino is more than just a venue—it is a destination. Whether you are planning a corporate retreat, trade show, or large-scale conference, its 30,000-plus square feet of versatile event space is designed to impress. With state-of-the-art facilities, exceptional service, and an atmosphere that seamlessly blends natural beauty with modern convenience, your meeting or event will be anything but ordinary.
Why settle for just another meeting when you can turn it into an unforgettable experience? At Kewadin Casino Sault Ste. Marie, business and leisure come together effortlessly. Book your event today and see for yourself what 40 years of expertise looks like—refreshed, reimagined, and ready for the future. Call 800-KEWADIN to start planning now!
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant stands out as a premier destination in Michigan for both gaming and entertainment. With the state’s largest gaming floor, it offers an impressive array of slot machines and table games that will satisfy every gaming enthusiast. Whether attendees are looking to hit the jackpot or engage in a competitive game of poker, there is something for everyone. For attendees who enjoy playing bingo, the bingo hall provides an exciting outlet to continue a winning streak.
Immerse yourself in luxury and unwind in the comfort of first-class AAA FourDiamond rooms and premium suites at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort! There are many amenities to choose from, including fireplaces, in-room Jacuzzis, and beautiful balconies. Head downstairs to the pristine 2,400-square-foot pool, or relax and be pampered when you book one of its amazing spa packages today.
No matter what guests are craving, they can expect a top-tier culinary experience at Soaring Eagle. Attendees can choose from options like the mouthwatering masterpiece Siniikaung Bistro, with approachable food and prices, and Ruth’s Chris Steak House, where your last bite is just as good as your first. The Food District features four different restaurant options for attendees: Bonanno’s Pizza, Bubbakoo’s Burritos, Guy Fieri’s Chicken Guy restaurant, and Ike’s Love & Sandwiches. For those looking to go back in time with a diner-style meal, Johnny Rockets is now open on the gaming floor.
To top it off, Soaring Eagle also is renowned for its entertainment, earning accolades as Michigan’s best outdoor concert venue. The resort hosts world-class performances, bringing big-name acts to the heart of the state, ensuring there is always a show to enjoy. With gaming, dining, and entertainment all in one place, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort promises a winning experience for every attendee!
WHAT DO ATTENDEES REALLY WANT?
» MEETING AND EVENT PLANNERS juggle the needs and preferences of many when organizing gatherings, from exhibitors and suppliers to the attendees themselves. When executed correctly, events account for and provide the essentials desired from each group—but when there are disparities between what planners prioritize and what eventgoers want, it can lead to lower attendance and less enthusiasm to participate. Luckily, there is plenty of data to provide insight and inspire solutions for planners to fill the gaps and better align event programming with attendees’ wishes.
Two studies conducted by Freeman, a global, full-service event-planning company headquartered in Dallas, surveyed business-to-business event attendees and planners to gauge what each group prioritized within an event—and the responses reflected some differences. The Fall 2024 Freeman Syndicated Survey of Event Organizers obtained responses from 453 people involved in planning events, while the Winter 2024 Freeman Syndicated Survey of Event Attendees showcased data from 2,094 respondents who attended in-person and/or online business-to-business events.
WHERE PERSPECTIVES DIFFER
MOST IMPORTANT
EVENT ELEMENT
of planners think networking 83% of attendees say discovering new products 87%
TOP REASONS FOR ATTENDING
of planners think event/brand reputation and perceived value of content/programming 85% of attendees say perceived value of attending relative to their professional goals 80%
NO. 1 ATTENDEE-FOCUSED ELEMENT of planners think event technology like apps and digital displays, along with customized agenda plans 51% of attendees say immersive experiences 64%
BEST LEARNING METHODS
of planners think classroom-style sessions 65% of attendees say hands-on activations 56%
HOW PLANNERS CAN FILL THE GAPS
Use tech not only to inform but also to engage . Keep attendees up and moving with hands-on product experiences . Incorporate career-enhancing content into event programming. Place more time and resources into participatory learning opportunities .
Survey attendees and analyze responses to gauge what they liked and disliked, then incorporate that feedback into future events.
NEW MARRIOTT HEADS TO TRAVERSE CITY
» A MARRIOTT TRIBUTE Portfolio hotel is scheduled to open in Traverse City’s Warehouse District near Grand Traverse Bay in the third quarter of next year. Margaret Morse, vice president of sales, marketing, and engagement for management company Carve Hospitality, says the hotel—named The Syndicate—will feature 110 guest rooms including suites, with some containing balconies.
The property also will contain a banquet room accommodating up to 180 attendees, two boardrooms, a private dining room, and two rooftop gathering spaces. A full-service lobby-level restaurant, lobby bar/cafe, rooftop restaurant and bar, and hidden speakeasy space also are planned. marriott.com
MPI Michigan Selects 2025 Board
The 2025 MPI Michigan board is set. The highest seats include Jennifer Berkemeier of Huntington Place, president; Jenn Morden of Choose Lansing, immediate past president; Tracy Russold of Traverse City Tourism, president-elect; Linda Bahr of Raising the Bahr Events, vice president of leadership development; Sasha Glover of Graduate by Hilton East Lansing, vice president of membership; Erica Kaschalk of Sodexo Live, vice president of communications; Jackie Stone of Destination Consultants, vice president of finance; and Mandi Van Ooteghem
of Go Great Lakes Bay, vice president of education. Directors are Ariel Backus of Choose Lansing, director of fundraising/special events and director of regional experience; Marianne Bogard of Detroit Regional Chamber, director of social media; Sarah Botruff of Community Mental Health Association of Michigan, director of strategic partnerships; Clarissa Lange of DoubleTree by Hilton Bay City Riverfront, director of member care; and Marilyn Newton of CWT Meetings & Events, director of monthly programs. Rebecca Krupa and Elizabeth Pike serve as administrators. mpi.org
Rendering of The Syndicate’s lobby-level restaurant, The Council
Meetings Guide is a comprehensive
for planning
and events in Michigan. From timely editorials about the meetings and events business to listings and key contact information, if you plan meetings and events, you’ll want to review this guide! If you prefer a printed copy, please email visitmichigan@gmail.com with your name and full address. We’d be happy to mail you a hard copy of the publication.
Michelin Green Guide Highlights Detroit
» DETROIT IS NOW THE 10TH CITY in the United States to launch a Michelin Green Guide. Centered on culture and the overall travel experience, the Detroit version spotlights the city’s top visitor experiences, including art, culture, architecture, music, neighborhoods, entertainment, and more.
Visit Detroit President and CEO Claude Molinari says his teams worked with public relations firm France Unique based in Paris to pitch Detroit as a destination to Michelin. “This wasn’t just about wanting a guide to our city,” Molinari explains. “It was about knowing Detroit was ready for this level of international recognition.” While Visit Detroit provided financial support to produce the guide, Molinari says the content reflects Michelin’s independent assessment of the Motor City.
“Not every destination that seeks a Michelin Green Guide receives one—Michelin conducts thorough research of each one,” he explains. “The ranking system is managed by Michelin using its established criteria. Our role was to facilitate the research by providing accommodations and arranging requested visits, although [Michelin’s team] did independent exploration as well.”
The guide describes Detroit as “one of the trendiest destinations of the moment.” Attractions in the 160-page book deemed unmissable include the Guardian Building, the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Eastern Market, Michigan Central, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the Motown Museum. The Detroit International Riverfront, fine-dining establishment The Whitney–Detroit, the city’s intricate and colorful murals, and two theaters—Fox Theatre and Fisher Theatre— represent Michelin’s other top picks in the city.
“It’s more than just a guide,” Molinari says. “It’s a stamp of approval that Detroit has emerged as a world-class destination worth exploring.” The English version of the guide is currently only available for purchase on Amazon, although Visit Detroit says it is working to get the book onto shelves at local retailers.
Muskegon’s historic Hackley Administration Building is undergoing a transformation into the Hackley Castle Inn and Suites boutique hotel. Muskegon-based developer WheelFish Group launched the project after buying the building back in 2021. Built in the 1890s, the 55,000-square-foot sandstone structure had been vacant and falling into disrepair, needing “a couple million dollars” of work to get it to the point of being ready to renovate, says WheelFish Group Vice President of Operations Frank Peterson.
Currently, interior demolition is complete and designs are nearly finished. Peterson estimates the project will cost a little over $15 million and result in a property with 48 rooms, including traditional hotel rooms and multipleroom suites, some with views of Lake Michigan. The building’s iconic clock tower also will be converted to house overnight guests. Other features will include small meeting spaces, a speakeasy, and spa. Located two blocks from the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center, the facility will dovetail nicely with events held there, Peterson says. In addition to offering overflow lodging, it will be suited for adding space for smaller breakouts or retreats.
“We want it to be luxury from day one,” Peterson says. He estimates completion will be no later than May next year. The property will be part of the Trademark Hotel Collection by Wyndham Resorts. muskgro.com
The Detroit Institute of Arts
188 Guest Rooms
4 One-Bedroom Suites Uncommon hospitality for uncommon guests OPENING SPRING 2025 • ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN
12,000 Sq. Ft of Flexible Meeting Space
northof 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 toafter-hours experiences can be sourced by contacting Kimberly Wright, CMP at kwright@cnscvb.com
Ask about our special incentive offers.
People News
The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) named Travel Marquette CEO Susan Estler to the “2024 Top 25 Extraordinary Minds” list. The awards honor outstanding leaders in sales, marketing, revenue optimization, and distribution within the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors. Estler was recognized during the HSMAI Adrian Awards Celebration held in midFebruary at the New York Marriott Marquis in New York City.
Holly Laurencelle was named president of the Tourism Coalition of Michigan (TICOM) this year. She is senior sales manager of the Midwest region for Advance Travel and Tourism. Prior to that, she held sales roles with MLive Media Group and the Cadillac News. Part of TICOM for 10 years, Laurencelle steps up from her previous role as vice president to take the reins from Kim Corcoran. TICOM is made up of more than 60 member organizations, including attractions, statewide associations, and destination marketing organizations, among others.
Heather Zak is the new chief financial officer at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. With more than two decades of financial leadership experience in the health care, nonprofit, and research sectors, Zak oversees Meijer Gardens’ financial operations. She most recently served as chief financial officer at nonprofit Hope Network. Prior roles include senior financial leadership positions at Corewell Health and Van Andel Institute. She replaces Dawn Kibben, who retired in January.
ROCK EVENTS TO SERVE THE GENERAL PUBLIC
When Henry Ford Health was looking to plan a groundbreaking ceremony and community celebration for its “Destination: Grand” hospital expansion project in Detroit last September, it turned to Rock Events for help. For 20 years, Rock Events has planned and executed hundreds of gatherings for the Detroit-based Rock Family of Companies, and also been responsible for overseeing a collection of Rock-owned venues around the city of Detroit. Until recently, Rock Events only provided its planning expertise to internal clients. Now, its services are available to the public.
“Folks who have attended our events in the past have asked, ‘Who planned this?’” notes Rock Events CEO Andrea Gengler. “We’ve been asked, ‘When are you going to do events [for others]?’ And now we are.”
For Henry Ford Health, Rock Events assisted with just about every aspect of planning and executing the September
celebration attended by hundreds of people, including government and business dignitaries and the news media. “Their incredible attention to detail—and not just an openness to feedback, but also a full embrace of the creative process—made our event a huge success,” says Henry Ford Health Executive Vice President and Chief Brand and Experience Officer Heather Geisler. “They troubleshot as needed, understood our vision and elevated it, thought of things we hadn’t, and made sure everyone enjoyed this historic day in our organization’s journey.”
It is all in a day’s work for the Rock Events crew, which stands at about 35 staff members, with more being added as external services ramp up. Senior Manager of Business Development Lyn Gleasure says the company’s specialty is planning corporate events including meetings, conferences, and incentives. Its team also has extensive experience organizing nonprofit fundraisers. “If it’s not something you do all the time, it can be daunting,” Gleasure says. “We think we can be that resource for someone who wants to do a great event.” rockevents.com
Located in the heart of Traverse City, Delamar is perfectly placed to accommodate your group and provide access to the region’s best entertainment and attractions. With our multiple flexible event spaces, attentive services and experienced catering team, we strive to make your event a resounding success.
Start the conversation: dtc-sales@thedelamar.com | 231-421-2122
Fundraiser planned by Rock Events for nonprofit NF Forward
Cheers to the Year
Members of Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Michigan gathered for the annual Celebration Gala and Fundraising Auction in December at Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. Themed “Cheers to the Year,” the evening was dedicated to honoring the chapter’s volunteers and recognizing top industry professionals. Award recipients included Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville for Innovative Venue of the Year, Becky Francoeur for Innovative Planner of the Year, Dani Johnson for the Rising Star Award, Mary Chris Hotchkiss for the Kristina Kauffman Industry Cheerleader Award, Dorothy Mott for the Maryellen Jansen Education Leadership Award, and Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth for the Silver Platter Exceptional Venue Service Award. More than $5,400 was raised—a new chapter record—to support chapter projects including educational programs, scholarships, marketing, and other initiatives.
1. David Coleman and Roberta Gill
2. Mary Pat McCartney and Brittany Ling
3. Tracy Russold 4. Lisa Calhoun, Heidi Schmitt, and Jen Henkel
5. Jennifer Berkemeier and Jenn Morden
6. Sasha Glover and Clarissa Lange
7. Linda Bahr and Princess Castleberry
8. Kristen Porchia and Paulette Kruger
To have your meeting or event photos featured, contact
MEET
Big IdeasBig Fun IN BLOOMINGTON
AT THE DOORSTEP of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), Bloomington is home to the world-famous Mall of America, featuring more than 520 retail shops and amazing attractions like Nickelodeon Universe, Sea Life at Mall of America, and FlyOver America. Over 50 restaurants at Mall of America provide endless options for groups, along with global cuisine prepared by awardwinning chefs at Bloomington hotels. Getting here from Michigan is easy. MSP was named No. 1 airport in the U.S. by Airports Council International. There are nonstop flights from most Michigan airports, including multiple daily flights from Detroit and Grand Rapids. Groups of all sizes can choose from over 46 Bloomington hotels within minutes of top attractions and the airport. Several hotels o er free shuttle service to the airport and Mall of America, and Bloomington is well-connected to Minneapolis and St. Paul via light-rail.
The Under-One-Roof Experience o ers meeting spaces throughout the mall, JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, and Radisson Blu Mall of America—combining fantastic facilities, fine dining, and dazzling entertainment with the ultimate convenience of being under one roof. With a total of 842 hotel rooms and 83,000 square feet of meeting space, groups of all sizes can get together in a setting that sets every meeting up for success. Plus, there are oneof-a-kind team-building experiences, like fitness classes at Lululemon Mall of America, behind-the-scenes tours of the mall, Nickelodeon Universe buyouts, and more.
Ways to Connect & Entertain
After a day of work, Bloomington has endless amounts of play. There is a wide range of fun and engaging team-building activities, from immersive dining experiences at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail
Bar to pulse-pounding team challenges at Great Big Game Show and WhirlyBall. For networking opportunities, the city has dozens of restaurants and bars perfect for meet and greets, team dinners, and more.
It is easy to create a once-in-a-lifetime outing when you host a meeting in Bloomington. Inside Mall of America alone, you can shop at over 520 stores (with no sales tax on clothing and shoes), let loose at thrilling attractions, or attend one of 400-plus free annual events. And with Minneapolis and St. Paul a short light-rail ride away, attendees can visit museums, check out comedy clubs, catch a show at a nationally renowned theater, or see a professional sports game.
Bloomington’s destination experts are here to help your team realize its goals.
See 360-degree views of venues, submit a request for proposal, and learn more about everything Bloomington has to o er at bloomingtonmn.org/meetings.
PHOTO Bloomington CVB
The Meeting Broker
For Yvette Campbell of Detroit-based Meetings Made Easy, negotiation is the name of the game BY
KATHY GIBBONS
Yvette Campbell is known as a “meeting broker.” She says the title couldn’t be more apropos. An independently contracted planner working under the umbrella of Meetings Made Easy, Campbell can source and assist with contract negotiations for hotels, among other services.
“We’re actually almost like a realtor,” she says. “We go between the person selling, which is the hotel, and the client.” Meetings Made Easy recently relocated its head office from Las Vegas to Detroit. The company also just opened a destination management company (DMC) in Detroit to assist with event staffing, on-site execution, transportation, design, planning, and all the logistics.
Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, Campbell spent years working in hotels—in food and beverage, banquet management, group sales, and
marketing—in California, Michigan, and Washington, D.C. Like many in hospitality, she was thrown a curveball during the COVID-19 pandemic with a layoff that she turned into a chance to reinvent herself. After interviewing with Meetings Made Easy owner Mike Ferreira, she decided to take a leap of faith and accept the role.
Campbell stays current on properties by attending sponsored events and national and international trade shows, making connections along the way. “So, when my clients ask me, ‘Do you know where we should go in Detroit?’ I can say, ‘Absolutely, there’s a new JW Marriott hotel opening in 2027 that is connected to the convention center, the Element opening at the end of 2026, and [there are] iconic hotels like the Westin Book Cadillac.’”
Once a property has been identified, Campbell handles the nitty-gritty of contract negotiations. “Clients don’t
realize how much money they’re wasting by not negotiating prior to contract,” she says, citing resort fees, audiovisual, and even parking as areas where costs can be trimmed. “If you’ve done business with the same hotel for 10 years, you think you’re getting a great deal. Probably, if I looked at the contract, I could think of 15 things you’re missing out on.”
She also works with DMCs, convention and visitors bureaus, transportation providers, and other organizations as needed. “We pride ourselves in connecting people who need to know each other,” she says. If she has learned anything in her role, Campbell says, it is patience—and to give without expecting anything back. “I love negotiating,” she says. “And I love working with people—helping them create amazing events, choose the best properties, and making them look amazing in front of their peers.”
Yvette Campbell at her home office in Fenton
DISCOVER HOLLAND
Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat, a team-building event, or a conference, Holland offers a variety of inspiring venues that combine modern facilities with the character of a historic downtown. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse venues provide the perfect setting for creative and collaborative meetings. Within a walkable four-block radius, you’ll find three luxury hotels and a wide array of versatile spaces designed to suit any occasion.
Host your event at the Tulyp Hotel, where floor-to-ceiling windows and a rooftop patio offer stunning views of downtown, Lake Macatawa, and a centuries-old windmill. The Haworth Hotel blends Italian design with local heritage across 13 flexible meeting spaces, while the Courtyard features an intimate boardroom and wrought iron balconies overlooking 8th Street. For larger events, combine all three venues for a seamless experience.
Beyond these options, Holland’s downtown is home to 15 additional venues, including the scenic Celebration Pavilion at Windmill Island Gardens, Port 393, and the Civic Center Place. Unique spaces like the Cellar at Butch’s, 205 Coffee Bar, and Warehouse 6 inside Cento Anni’s artisan woodworking shop are just steps away from over 100 bistros, boutiques, and breweries, offering a vibrant setting for your event.
The Holland Area Convention + Visitors Bureau is your dedicated partner, handling everything from accommodations to entertainment and transportation, ensuring your event is a success. Discover how small-town warmth and big-city convenience come together in Holland.
78 E. 8th Street • Holland, MI 49423 • 616.394.0000 meetings@holland.org • holland.org
