VENUE REPORT

Lakes & Legends

TAKE ONE DOWN, PASS IT AROUND

Breweries, cideries and distilleries are multifunctional as meeting spaces and tasting rooms.

BY KASSIDY TARALA

SOME OF THE MOST PRODUCTIVE MEETINGS happen when you leave the office behind. With free-flowing thoughts, effortless team-building and a bounty of local pours on tap, breweries, cideries and distilleries are becoming some of the trendiest (and tastiest) meeting spots. So grab your team and treat them to whatever’s brewing at one of these six spots.

Lakes & Legends

With a farmhouse vibe, rustic taproom and on-site craft brewery, Lakes & Legends is Minnesota in its purest form. Serving all types of beer from a raspberry honey ale to a Belgian IPA, Lakes & Legends has something on tap for every palate.

The space offers 4,000 square feet of a large, wide open taproom, which can accommodate up to 250 guests. Both private and semiprivate spaces are available, including a full buyout of the taproom, a private barrel room for 40-50 people and free reservations.

Taproom pricing depends on the day, and though buyouts are not available on Tuesdays, they range from $2,000 to $6,500. The barrel room is available for a $600 beverage minimum Tuesday through Sunday.

A rental includes beer, barkeeps, A/V hookups with a projector in the taproom or HDTV in the barrel room, and outside catering is allowed. Lakes & Legends is known for its seasonal beers, including the farm series that

highlights farming partners, which are only available in the taproom.

Minneapolis Cider Company

If you’re looking for something a little sweeter, cider will surely have you covered. Stop by Minneapolis Cider Company to indulge in its 800-square-foot space, featuring beautiful south-facing windows and production tanks in the taproom.

The space can accommodate groups as small as 20 or more than 80, depending on furniture and seating setup. In addition to its collection of high tops and crane tables, allowing for casual gatherings of up to 30, Minneapolis Cider Company has its very own 4,000-square-foot indoor pickleball courts.

Just five minutes from the heart of downtown Minneapolis and the University of Minnesota campus, Minneapolis Cider Company is conveniently located with an abundance of parking (seriously, more than 100 on-site parking spots!).

Renting Minneapolis Cider Company can include that free parking, a fully staffed bar, tours, tastings, classes, a PA system and two microphones, a projector and portable 120inch screen, tables and chairs, Wi-Fi and the outdoor 40-seat patio and bonfire pit with in-house s’mores bar catering.

The semiprivate area can be rented for $50/ hour, the high tops and crane tables can be rented for $25/hour and the pickleball courts can be rented for $40/hour. Pricing can be tailored to accommodate events for the entire space.

Some of Minneapolis Cider Company’s most popular ciders are the raspberry and mango habanero, and its riff on an old fashioned (El Diablo) is another popular drink.

Number 12 Cider

Another sweet spot in Minneapolis is Number 12 Cider (also featured in our fall issue’s North Loop Destination), which offers a 500-square-foot barrel room, 300-squarefoot loft and full buyouts.

The barrel room can accommodate approximately 40 people and is equipped with couches, tables, a large screen TV with HDMI capability and dart boards for entertainment. The loft offers a more intimate setting in a midcentury modern lounge that can accommodate 25 people. Rental of the entire space accomodates more than 225 and includes an extended yard and patio in warmer weather.

If its North Loop location and free parking aren’t enough to draw you in, then maybe its toddy, a distilled apple/black currant brandy blended with hot cider and an orange zest, or its sangria, a black currant cider with fresh fruit served in a carafe, will urge you to stop by.

Minneapolis Cider Company

Number 12 Cider

Sociable Cider Werks

With two separate taprooms, Sociable Cider Werks can pretty much accommodate any group (and budget). Each taproom has its own bar, seating and patio space in a fun, sociable environment.

Though Sociable Cider Werks primarily produces ciders, it operates its own brewery and guests can pick from a long list of meads and beers, too.

Several different packages are available for rental, including anything from small tables to full buyouts. The staff of Sociable Cider Werks prides itself on offering groups very flexible rental options by working with everyone’s budgets and needs.

All rentals include fully staffed bars, catering from its on-site food truck and resident chef, and A/V equipment. As we roll into spring, some seasonal flavors to look forward to include Road Rash Raspberry Lemon and several other fruity sips featured in Sociable’s rotating specials.

Sociable Cider Werks

Get Connected

LAKES & LEGENDS lakesandlegends.com

MINNEAPOLIS CIDER COMPANY minneapoliscider.co

NUMBER 12 CIDER number12cider.com

SOCIABLE CIDER WERKS sociablecider.com

TATTERSALL DISTILLING tattersalldistilling.com

THE LAB thelabmn.com Tattersall Distilling

Combining the best of a brewery atmosphere with the drinks of a bar, Tattersall stands as one of the Twin Cities’ most popular distilleries. Boasting two private event spaces (the cocktail room and the Clover Club), Tattersall knows how to host an elevated, intimate event.

The cocktail room is available for $500 in venue rental and a $1,000 beverage minimum, and the Clover Club is available for a $1,000 venue rental and a $400 beverage minimum. Cocktails average $10 across the 40-plus seasonal drink menu, which is available in both spaces.

If you’re looking for a team-building opportunity, Tattersall tours are the way to go. Tattersall offers a tour of the entire facility with tastes of the award-winning spirits and a take-home souvenir tasting glass on the Grain to Glass Tour ($15 per person). The Uncompromised Character Tour ($25 per person) is a tour of the entire facility with tastes of the award-winning spirits, a souvenir tasting glass and a Tattersall T-shirt. The Cask Tour ($55 per person) shows the entire facility with tastes of the award-winning spirits, a take-home souvenir tasting glass, a sample of rye whiskey straight from a barrel and a 375ml bottle of a spirit of your choice to take home (excluding absinthe).

There are also various cocktail classes available, including the Cocktail Academy ($60 per person for up to 20) and the Cocktail Academy Masterclass ($100 per person up to 12).

Tattersall welcomes outside catering in the Clover Club from Chow Girls, Fabulous Catering, Brasa, Crave, Quince or Tongue in Cheek.

The Lab

A pilot facility, brewery and taproom, The Lab brews for other beverage makers, puts the product on tap for a limited time and asks guests for feedback. That feedback goes directly to the beverage makers, so they can decide whether they want to continue with the brew.

The Lab has a private room that seats 36, or up to 50 for a standing event or presentation. Featuring a large TV, the room is separated from the rest of the space by a glass garage door; with the door open it can accommodate up to 70 attendees. Entire taproom rentals are available on a case-by-case basis.

A rental of the meeting room costs $100 for a day, not including a bartender or beverages. For events during open hours, The Lab charges $50 for the room and a $125 beverage minimum for every two-hour time slot. Nonalcoholic beverages are typically between $2 and $4, and alcoholic beverages are $6-$7.50. Guests pour their own beer by the ounce at the tap wall, and various sizes are available at about 40-50 cents per ounce.

Groups are welcome to bring in their own food or cater. There are often food trucks on-site.

Because the menu at The Lab is always changing, there are always many beer, hard seltzer, nonalcoholic and gluten-free options.

BEST THE WINNERS Best Brewery/Cidery/ Distillery/Winery with Event Space SURLY BREWING COMPANY surlybrewing.com | 763.999.4040 “A brand-new offering is the private tent space within our beer garden,” says Katie Kilian, events manager. “The beer garden tent sets the mood for an intimate and energized gathering for anywhere from 40 to 120 guests. We’ll keep things fun and casual so you and your friends feel like you’re right at home, but with less cleanup and more beer. The Surly Food Truck is available for all beer garden tent events and includes the option for a themed menu, including barbecue, tacos or sausages menus. “The event planning team will handle all the details of the event planning and making sure that everything goes according to plan, from beginning to end,” says Kilian. Runners-up: Royal Foundry Craft Spirits; WineHaven WineryPHOTO: ELIESA JOHNSON

BEST CASINO

MYSTIC LAKE CASINO HOTEL

mysticlakecenter.com 952.496.6528

Mystic Lake Center features 116,000 square feet of dedicated indoor/outdoor meeting space and 30 flexible meeting and event spaces. The Minnetonka Ballroom boasts 22-foot-tall ceilings and can accommodate conventions, conferences, high-profile galas, holiday parties and wedding receptions. The ballroom features a semitrailer overhead door, providing convenient loading and unloading.

“As a destination venue, Mystic Lake Center is designed to ensure an extraordinary guest experience not found anywhere else in Minnesota,” says Kimberly Osterhout, director of sales. “Attentive design of the meeting and convention space, along with today’s trendiest food and beverage selections, creates an indulgent experience. The opportunity to provide attendees with on-site entertainment from dining, concerts, spa, golf and 24/7 gaming will ensure attendees enjoy their experience from arrival to departure.”

Runners-up: Treasure Island Resort & Casino; Canterbury Park

Best Convention & Visitors Bureau

(in Town/Area More than 80,000 in Population)

MEET MINNEAPOLIS

minneapolis.org | 612.767.8000

Minneapolis hosted the 2019 NCAA Men’s Final Four in April 2019. According to Rockport Analytics, the event generated $143 million in economic impact and brought 91,000 visitors to the region over the championship weekend. The semifinal and championship games, along with events for the Reese’s Final Four Friday, took place at U.S. Bank Stadium. Enhanced fan events were held at the Minneapolis Convention Center, on Nicollet and at The Armory, and they offered free and low-cost opportunities for everyone to be part of the fun in downtown Minneapolis and beyond.

“Our Meet Minneapolis and Sports Minneapolis teams have enjoyed great success attracting and executing events over the course of the past year,” says Melvin Tennant, president and CEO. “However, we don’t do it alone. Our partners, throughout Minneapolis and the region, help us fulfill the promises that are made to groups and meetings planners. Together, we demonstrate what Minneapolis has to offer our clients and their convention attendees.”

Runners-up: Visit Duluth; Visit Saint Paul

Best Entertainment

(Performer or Talent Agency) BRAVE NEW WORKSHOP

bravenewworkshop.com | 612.332.6620 Brave New Workshop writes, performs and produces original sketch comedy and has been doing so for over 60 years. The same actors also serve as improvisers, emcees and writers for the entertainment services portion of the company. BNW knows that live comedic entertainment can be risky, but the team is well-versed in working with clients to avoid HR moments and taboo topics.

Runners-up: Acme Comedy Co.; Enticing Entertainment

BEST RESORT/LODGE

GRAND VIEW LODGE

grandviewlodge.com | 866.801.2951

Grand View Lodge offers a multitude of meeting and event services and offerings. North, a 60-room boutique hotel, is the latest addition to the resort.

“[We recently] hosted a team from the West Coast, of which many of the visitors had not experienced a Minnesota winter,” says Cindy Baysinger, director of sales. “During their stay we facilitated ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, as well as a horse-drawn wagon ride, everyone’s favorite. They experienced a true Minnesota winter wonderland at Grand View Lodge.”

Runners-up: Larsmont Cottages; Breezy Point Resort

Best Boats/ Cruises/Charters

AL AND ALMA’S SUPPER CLUB AND CHARTER CRUISES

alandalmas.com | 952.472.3098

“We are Lake Minnetonka’s longest operating restaurant, since 1956,” says Jay Soule, president. “Our reputation for providing the best food served aboard the finest yachts has prevailed over many generations of guests. While we are proud of this reputation, we know that our success will always be championed by our legacy staff who are dedicated to training and providing the best service in our industry.”

Runners-up: Stillwater River Boats; Padelford Riverboats (tie); Afton Hudson Cruise Lines (tie)

Best Catering Company

D’AMICO CATERING

damicoandsons.com | 612.374.1776

In the last year, D’Amico Catering has added two new exclusive venues to its portfolio: Ashery Lane Farm in Mayer and Edinburgh USA golf course in Brooklyn Park. The company’s legacy venue, the Metropolitan Ballroom and Clubroom in Golden Valley, was also entirely transformed and now boasts enameled woodwork, sparkling light fixtures and luxury finishes.

“We are here for the sole purpose of creating incredible memories for our clients,” says Christie Altendorf, senior event planner and marketing manager. “Whether it be creating an unrepeatable branding opportunity for corporate clients, helping our nonprofit partners meet and exceed their goals or crafting the perfect setting for wedding couples, our ultimate goal is ensuring that everyone, both clients and guest, leave the event wanting to do it all over again.”

Runners-up: Elite Catering, a division of Entourage Events Group; Chowgirls Killer Catering

Best Convention/Conference Center

MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER

minneapolis.org/minneapolis-convention-center | 612.335.6000

U.S. Bank Stadium hosted the 2019 NCAA Final Four in April, while the Minneapolis Convention Center was the home of several related events, including the NCAA Fan Fest with 76,000plus attendees, the NCAA Client Party, Read to the Final Four, the True North Party and the National Association of Basketball Coaches Annual Meeting.

“Our entire staff puts an incredible amount of effort into providing a world-class hospitality venue for our clients and the community. Their hard work has produced great outcomes that focus on operating responsibly through industry-leading sustainability efforts and an employee-centered culture,” says Executive Director Jeff Johnson.

The convention center will be celebrating 30 years in 2020.

Runners-up: Saint Paul RiverCentre; Earle Brown Heritage Center

BEST SPEAKER/ PRESENTER

(Individual or Agency)

ÉLAN SPEAKERS AGENCY

elanspeakersagency.com 763.458.9326

“My business was designed 10 years ago by focus groups of meeting planners,” says Devie Hagen, president of Élan Speakers Agency. “I personally vet any speaker I present to ensure it’s the right fit and negotiate the fees. I presently have hundreds of speakers nationwide and in Canada that I have approved.”

Runners-up: MinnesotaSpeakerscom; National Speakers Association-Minnesota

BEST A/V PROVIDER

AV FOR YOU

avforyou.com | 952.500.8839

“We moved to a new location, which is double the size of our previous. This new facility makes us much more efficient and increases our capacity to serve our customers,” says Josh Reitan, owner. “In honor of the new space, we hosted an open house. The theme was a 1980s roller skating party. It allowed us to do all the things we want to do on a show just for the sake of seeing what is possible. The event turned out great. Guests were able to roller skate in our warehouse beneath a 60-foot wide projection screen, with full show lighting and indoor pyrotechnics.”

Runners-up: AVEX; Allied Production & Sales

Best Hotel with Meeting/ Event Space

(Fewer than 300 Guest Rooms) HEWING HOTEL

hewinghotel.com | 651.468.0400

The Hewing Hotel offers a truly “trans-local” experience. “From the cozy feel as you walk in the building to our local partners for coffee, bar/beverage programming, curated in-room mini bar with snacks, and all of the small details in each of our spaces and guest rooms, we try to set ourselves apart from the rest,” says Heidi Sohn, director of sales. “On the food scene at the Hewing, whether in Tullibee, our onsite restaurant, or meals prepared for any meeting/event, we provide a very regional and seasonal menu and curated bar/beverage program with sourcing of many local beers, wine, and spirits. Not to forget, the Hewing has its own butchery program and focuses on hyper-local sourcing of many fresh products to create the best food experience for our guests.”

Runners-up: The Saint Paul Hotel; North at Grand View

Best Convention & Visitors Bureau

(in Town/Area Less than 25,000 in Population)

DISCOVER STILLWATER

discoverstillwater.com 651.351.1717

“The lodging scene has changed drastically! We now have two new modern boutique hotels perfect for executive stays right on Main Street, as well as an expansion of an additional 20 rooms at our riverfront hotel, with two new conference rooms right next to the river with stunning views, as well as a rooftop restaurant,” says Christie Rosckes, marketing director. “We are always here to help with ideas since Stillwater is a place that works best when you think outside the box.”

Runners-up: Red Wing Visitors & Convention Bureau; Lake of the Woods Tourism

Best New Venue

(September 2018-19)

BAVARIA DOWNS

bavariadowns.com 952.443.2968

Bavaria Downs sits on 270 lush acres in Chaska. “We offer allinclusive meeting and conference packages as well as à la carte offerings based on event size and needs,” says Melissa Coon, director of venue operations. “Our 26,000-square-foot Edward Anne Estate includes several spaces for unique meeting experiences and our 8,500-square-foot, state-ofthe-art ballroom has all the tech amenities for all event and conference needs.”

Runners-up: Harriet Place; West End Conference Center

BEST FLORIST

BACHMAN’S

bachmans.com | 612.861.7620

Bachman’s, a full-service floral and special event company, offers a bountiful selection of products to enhance the space and atmosphere of any meeting or special event. Customers can choose from centerpieces, backdrops, arches, vases and exciting plants, all designed and styled to suit any event’s theme, from timeless and elegant to contemporary and chic. Bachman’s offers a mix of fresh, locally grown flowers along with exotic and unique imported flowers. The team of buyers knows what’s trendy and where to find it.

Runners-up: Sadie’s Couture Floral; Richfield Flowers and Events

Best Photography

LAUREN B. PHOTOGRAPHY

laurenbfalk.com | 612.708.2090 “I worked with some amazing clients last year, both new and repeat clients. It’s the ultimate compliment to be asked back for an annual event, and I love being a part of a tradition in the making,” says Laurie McVean, owner. “Early in the year, LBP underwent a revamp: new branding, new website, same me.”

Runners-up: Graddy Photography; Jeannine Marie Photography

Best Golf Venue

GRAND VIEW LODGE

grandviewlodge.com 866.801.2951

Grand View Lodge strives to go above and beyond guests’ expectations: + Each meeting has a dedicated meeting planner + Grand View Lodge has a fulltime, in-house event service and A/V Tech team + There are activities for every season, including golf + The award-winning culinary team on staff customizes event menus

Runners-up: Edinburgh USA; Breezy Point Resort

BEST EVENT RENTAL PROVIDER

APRÈS EVENT DÉCOR AND TENT RENTAL

apresparty.com | 952.942.3399

“We are a family business dedicated to providing rental product that is superior in both quality and design,” says Sheree Bochenek, creative director. “We strive to deliver prompt answers to event challenges, doing so with a friendly spirit that is grounded in personal integrity, accountability and follow-through. We recently completed tenting for the North American Pond Hockey Championship. We worked through challenging temperatures and weather conditions to install numerous frame and structure tents throughout the Twin Cities, including glass-walled tents and an install on 20-foot scaffolding.”

Runners-up: BeThings; Ultimate Events

Best Event Décor Provider

EVENT LAB

eventlab.net | 952.224.8558

Event Lab celebrated its 25th anniversary last May at the Hewing Hotel. “We work within all venues, spaces, facilities for our client events,” says Becky Harris, vice president. “Every client is unique and so is their event. We specialize in designing experiences that focus on the client goals. There is always something special, unique, out-of-the-box being designed and produced in the production department. We now have two on-site warehouses stocked with trend-forward furnishings, linens, theme and décor items. Our creative event specialists add to the offerings every time they design something special for a client program.”

Runners-up: edgPRODUCTIONS, a division of Entourage Events Group; Girl Friday

BEST HOTEL WITH MEETING/EVENT SPACE

(300 or More Guest Rooms)

RENAISSANCE MINNEAPOLIS HOTEL, THE DEPOT

marriott.com/mspdd | 612.375.1700

“Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot is proud to be an eclectic part of the local hotel scene and also Minneapolis’s premier venue for meetings and events,” says Michael Clark, managing director. “I’m so excited about the completion of our new event space, which is the final piece of our five-year renovation and expansion project. Its design includes all that the Renaissance brand has to offer while still reflecting our historic past. I consider it to be the centerpiece of our community, past, present and future.”

Runners-up: JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America; Radisson Blu Mall of America

Best Livestreaming/ Webcasting Service

HEROIC PRODUCTIONS

heroic-productions.com | 952.224.9591

Heroic Productions, a full-service A/V event staging and production company, specializes in lighting, video and audio to create dynamic and inspiring events that help clients deliver their messages. Its new ContentCanvas LED display solution brings content to life not only with a typical LED wall, but also using banner, podium and arch configurations, which debuted during the 15th annual ILEA Star Awards.

“One of the greatest compliments we’ve received is this fun one from a senior event planner and long-term client: ‘I sleep better when Heroic is supporting our event,’” says Jon Young, president.

Runners-up: Mediapolis LLC; EideCom

BEST CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

(in Town/Area 25,000-80,000 in Population) EXPLORE BRAINERD LAKES

explorebrainerdlakes.com | 218.829.2838

At the center of Minnesota is Brainerd Lakes. While lakes are a big draw, the area contains myriad activities like biking, fishing and hunting, spas, food and drink, golfing and endless options for lodging and camping.

Runners-up: Discover St. Louis Park; Explore Edina

Best Meeting/Event Venue

(No Hotel)

MINNEAPOLIS EVENT CENTERS

entourageeventsgroup.com | 612.564.3777 Entourage Events Group’s portfolio includes venues in Minneapolis and St. Paul, all of which are served by Elite Catering and edgPRODUCTIONS.

Minneapolis Event Centers features three spaces that can be booked individually or as one full venue (capacity: 2,200, with an attached parking ramp for 1,100).

The Grand 1858 boasts an open floor plan and an all-glass atrium that leads guests to a lush garden patio (350 seated, 550 theater-style).

The Riverside overlooks the riverfront with views of downtown. The space features plenty of natural light, elevated ceilings and a custom-made fiber optic chandelier as the focal point (450 seated, 600 theater-style).

The View is the latest addition to the Minneapolis Event Centers’ portfolio and has a spacious, customizable floor plan (800 seated, 950 theater-style, plus an outdoor patio).

Runners-up: The Armory; Machine Shop

Best Sports Venue

U.S. BANK STADIUM

usbankstadium.com | 612.777.8700

The stadium received two recognitions in the last year:

In August 2019, U.S. Bank Stadium became the first professional sports stadium to earn LEED Platinum certification on the Operations and Maintenance (O + M) rating system for existing buildings through the arc performance platform. The recognition signifies achievements in sustainability for the ongoing, daily operations and maintenance of U.S. Bank Stadium.

U.S. Bank Stadium was also recognized with the Venue Excellence Award from the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) in June 2019. This prestigious award annually recognizes five venues that demonstrate excellence in management and operation. Award criteria include operational excellence, safety and security, team-building/ professional development and service to the community.

Runners-up: Target Field; Allianz Field

Best Planning Company

ENTOURAGE EVENTS GROUP

entourageeventsgroup.com | 612.564.3777

Entourage Events Group, while located in St. Anthony Main, has national reach. The group will be participating in the 2020 Democratic National Convention in July as the exclusive hospitality provider at two venues in Milwaukee.

“We have been fortunate to be part of some of the largest national events in the U.S.—the Super Bowl, NCAA tournament and X Games to name a few. The regional talent and resources available here in the Twin Cities allow us to compete for these premiere national events,” says Steve Hark, CEO/founder.

Runners-up: Do Good Events; Event Lab

BEST TRANSPORTATION PROVIDER

PREMIER TRANSPORTATION

premiertrans.com | 612.331.7433

Premier Transportation has been in business and under the same ownership since 1988. “Overall, we just feel truly blessed to continue to provide safe and reliable transportation to our clients for the past 32 years,” says Nicole French, VP of sales and marketing. “This last year we really felt the love as we were honored with more awards and nominations than any previous year in our history. In a world where customers have an abundance of platforms to voice their opinion, it feels great that we are being recognized by our customers.”

Runners-up: Renee’s Limousines; Eclipse Global Transportation

BEST RESTAURANT WITH PRIVATE DINING SPACE

SPOON AND STABLE

spoonandstable.com | 612.224.9850

The wildly popular Spoon and Stable, headed by James Beard Award-winning chef/owner Gavin Kaysen, features two private dining rooms. The Hennepin Salon seats up to 24 guests and is ideal for cocktail receptions, closing dinners and celebrations of all sorts. St. Anthony Parlor can host intimate dinners for up to 12 guests, or pre-dinner receptions for up to 18. When dining in the Hennepin Salon, the Parlor can also complement the Salon for a welcome reception.

Runners-up: Murray’s; The Bachelor Farmer

Best TeamBuilding Activity/ Organizer

BRAVE NEW WORKSHOP

bravenewworkshop.com 612.332.6620

Testimonial: “John Sweeney and the BNW team deliver results, pushing teams to learn techniques to approach problems in new, innovative ways, long after the meeting is over. Their entertaining and engaging approach produces hoots and hollers but also delivers integrated messages on strategy and innovation. Their presence has produced some of the highest-rated meeting sessions ever at Target.com. I highly recommend John and his team.” Dale Nitschke, former president, Target.com

Runners-up: Topgolf; Bad Axe Throwing

Best Historic or Cultural Venue

THE ARMORY

armorymn.com | 612.315.3965 1930s-1970s: The building, designed by St. Paul architect P.C. Bettenburg, was a venue for civic events, including concerts, political conventions and sporting events.

1947-1959: The building was used by the Minneapolis Lakers as a parttime home and as its primary home court for the 1959-1960 NBA season.

1982: Prince shot the music video there for “1999.”

1998: Aerosmith recorded its music video there for “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.”

1989: Hennepin County bought the Armory with plans to place a new county jail on the site. The Minnesota Historical Society sued and in 1993 the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that the structure was protected by state law and could not be torn down because of its historical status.

2017: The building opens as The Armory, hosting social functions, concerts, sporting events, trade shows and other private celebrations.

“I was 10 years old when I received my Muscular Dystrophy Carnival Kit in the mail. The box was filled with cool ideas and colorful materials to support fundraising efforts. I was completely enthralled with the event planning process. … This experience was my jumpstart into events and I was hooked.”

ON HER FIRST JOB: “My first real position was as a promotions coordinator for Chuck E. Cheese’s when they first entered this market. … It was there that I met my husband of 30 years.”

ON HER MOST VALUABLE SKILL: “Ideation. Ideation is the creative collaboration process of bringing an idea to life by connecting strategic solutions with powerful insights, through innovation and development, to actualization.”

“I’ve been fortunate to work with ambitious people and successful entrepreneurs early in my career and [to be] exposed to a broad spectrum of the industry. I’m grateful for the opportunities and the autonomy to take the bull by the horns.”

ON HER MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Being one of the founding members to form the Mpls-St. Paul ILEA chapter ranks high as the most significant experiences in my career. Knowing we made an impact in our community and for future event professionals is rewarding.”

ON HER SECRET WEAPON: “It’s no secret that food is always the best way to win hearts at a meeting but knowing your client’s favorite flavors is a super-power weapon of opportunity.”

“2020 is going to be groundbreaking in many ways. With a focus on taking the ideation playbook I’ve been applying to business for years, I’m excited to create events and sharable experiences (which are more important and popular than ever) that are inspiring and seamless for Twin Cities brands.”

Lifetime Achievement Founder IdeationMKT

“I find it interesting that each year Forbes Magazine comes out with the most stressful jobs list, and every year the meeting professional is in the top 10, sometimes even the top five. I find the job challenging and fun, never the same, always with a lot of moving parts. I like the travel, working with the vendors and hoteliers, and trying to create the most educational and beneficial meetings as possible for our attendees.”

ON HER MOST VALUABLE SKILL: “Negotiation is probably the most valuable skill for [my work with] PLUS. … I like to negotiate from a position of strength to gain as much as I can for my association and at the same time recognize the needs of our suppliers.”

ON HER BIGGEST CHALLENGE: “Every event is its own challenge. However, we had an event where the host hotel had a ‘bomb threat’ and we had to evacuate one whole tower where our attendees were staying. That was an interesting experience to say the least; and although it turned out not to be an actual threat, we didn’t know that at the time.”

ON THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS OF HER CAREER: “We travel to wonderful cities and traditionally have hosted big-name speakers. I’ve met two U.S. presidents, one former prime minister, four secretaries of state, some of the best authors and comedians as well as brilliant business leaders from across the country.”

ON WHAT MIGHT SURPRISE YOU: “My passion is travel and American history, and I am often lucky enough to combine both interests. I have visited all 50 states, some many times, and now I am working on seeing all the national parks and presidential libraries.”

Best Meeting Professional Vice President of Meetings & Events Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS)

JOE KOLLAR

Up-and-Coming Meeting Professional Director of Operations Mayo Civic Center

“I played sports in high school and college and I really thought that I would end up working in that world exclusively. … I was introduced to the meetings/events side of the business randomly, and I really took a liking to it. The controlled chaos, the relationships that you build, and the people that you get to meet and work closely with is what kept me here. I would have a difficult time transitioning to a job witha standard work week and no excitement at all.”

ON HOW HE DESCRIBES HIS JOB: “My job is being a partner to the client as they bring their event into Rochester and into Mayo Civic Center. It’s my job to make sure their needs and expectations are met when they come to our facility and into our city. I achieve that goal by working closely with them and then keeping all of our internal facility staff focused on delivering on all promises when event day comes.”

ON HOW HE UNWINDS AFTER A BIG EVENT: “This depends greatly on how the event ultimately turned out. If it went well, I like to go home, relax and unplug for the day. If everything didn’t go the way we wanted to, I like to go home and obsess about it uncontrollably and use it as motivation for the next one.”

ON HIS MOST VALUABLE SKILL: “The most important skill in this work is your ability to communicate—whether that’s speaking, or more often, listening. There’s so much information coming through during the planning process that you really need to be able to communicate effectively, and then know when it’s time to be quiet and listen to what the client is saying.”

HAYLEY MATTHEWS-JONES CSEP

“I went to art school and realized halfway through my degree that I actually enjoyed coordinating the exhibitions we hosted more than I enjoyed creating the work to go in them. … I loved the variety of skills I was able to utilize in events work, and I like project-based work where you get to complete an event and then move on to something new.”

ON HOW SHE DESCRIBES HER JOB: “I’m pretty much everything right now: marketer, strategist, administrator, IT support, you name it! I’m working on getting some additional support in place this year, so that I can free up more time to work on some of the things that only I can work on to keep growing the business, while also maintaining high standards on what we’re currently offering.”

ON HER BIGGEST LEARNING MOMENT ON THE JOB: “Working alongside [my previous supervisor] for five years instilled in me the importance of methodical documentation and organization in your work, so that when it comes time to replicate projects or training in new staff, you have everything available in a logical place. It sounds basic, but it’s a skill that not a lot of people have. I currently host more than 120 events per year, so having those systems in place is really essential to being able to work effectively and increase efficiencies.”

“I started my business when I still had a full-time job and I would say taking the leap from the stability of that job to work full time on my business—and having it be successful—was such a pivotal time for me. … There’s a huge amount of power in following your instincts and committing to your passion—whatever that may be.”

Best Special Events Planner Founder Minneapolis Craft Market and Minneapolis Vintage Market

“I was working as a business analyst for Target and realized that I needed to make a change in my life. I sat down, took inventory of my skills and spent a lot of time dreaming about what my ideal job would look like. I got into the industry obliquely by selling private event space and it took years to find out my dream job even existed.”

ON HOW SHE DESCRIBES HER JOB: “I work with clients to develop incentive trips that reward and motivate their employees with unique adventures like snowmobiling on a glacier in Iceland or going on a safari in South Africa. I then work with local partners and the teams at One10 to organize flights, dinners and everything else needed to create a seamless guest experience.”

ON HER MOST VALUABLE SKILL: “The ability to think on your feet. In this industry last-minute changes are guaranteed and it’s necessary to be able to quickly evaluate your options and make decisions that optimize the balance between client expectations, guest needs and the reality of the situation.”

ON THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS OF HER CAREER: “Off-roading in a Jeep on a small island off the coast of Malta, with stark limestone cliffs rising out of the crystal-blue water, and being overwhelmed by a sense of gratitude that I get paid to do this.”

ON HER FIRST JOB: “This job no longer exists, but I was the receptionist at my local Target. Sometimes when the phone rings I still instinctively want to answer, ‘Thank you for calling Apple Valley Super Target, this is Kelsey, how can I help you?’”

Up-and-Coming Special Events Planner Event Manager; One10

KELSEY DOYLE

Best Supplier National Account Executive Meet Minneapolis at the Minneapolis Convention Center

ON HOW SHE DESCRIBES HER JOB: “My core focus is to sell and market the Minneapolis Convention Center and all of its 1.6 million square feet of splendor. It has so much flexible space that it’s the perfect fit for many different types of events. … As an employee of Meet Minneapolis, I have the luxury of learning about all of the amazing venues, hotels and experiences the Twin Cities have to offer. If the convention center isn’t the right fit, I am able to listen to [clients’] needs and recommend other solutions, wherever they might be. The goal of Meet Minneapolis is to bring economic development to the city. It doesn’t have to be at one specific location.”

ON HER MOST VALUABLE SKILL: “Honesty, empathy and personal integrity/character are amongst the most valuable in my opinion. No matter how experienced a meeting planner, the event they are producing has a lot of moving parts and is very demanding. Things [for clients] can change quickly and they need to trust that the person working with them understands their needs, provides accurate information and can help implement what’s needed for a successful event.”

ON HOW SHE UNWINDS: “Not to brag, but I have some really awesome friends and family. Time spent with them is always delightful. Although the time may be energetic, the fun actually relaxes me and puts me in my best state. I also enjoy scenic walks, listening to podcasts and books on tape. If I really want to relax, I read … because I fall asleep.”

ANGIE KUFUS

ON HOW SHE DESCRIBES HER JOB: “My job is offering a landscape in Greater St. Cloud where [planners] can focus on what makes what they do unique, and empowering them to try something they have always wanted to do.”

ON HER MOST VALUABLE SKILL: “Anticipating the needs of others before they even know they need it. This allows event professionals to trust you, look to you for advice and offer you a seat at the table. Make an event planner look good and they will remember you!”

ON HER FIRST JOB: “My first job, besides babysitting, was coaching gymnastics. This was the sport that showed me all of the clichés I can carry with me in life: It’s not how many times you fall, it’s about always getting back up. Work hard and you will see results. Dedication makes champions. Don’t stop just because it’s hard—the list goes on.”

ON HER SECRET WEAPON: “My ‘secret weapon’ is my stature. When I walk into a room, it’s certainly not my height that demands attention, but it might be my boldness and desire to help. Just like dynamite, big things come in small packages and I strive to be someone who helps make things happen and leave an impact (in a positive way, unlike most dynamite).”