Northwest Meetings + Events Spring 2023

BY TERESA BERGEN

Kootenay National Park, British Columbia

Attendees at the 3D Basecamp event presented by SketchUp

From 3D models to real-time media walls, the Pacific Northwest welcomes tech advancements to bring

Bake, Blend, and Bond

» AS WE KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR and reminisce on this past holiday season, I can’t help but reflect on how much of a bonding experience preparing treats and meals can be. Every year, my mother and I bake Rice Krispies holiday wreaths with green food coloring and red hots. While the treat itself is tasty, I’ve come to realize that it’s really the time I get to spend with her that makes it so special. But regardless of the season, cooking and baking—from pasta dishes to banana bread—bring us all together. It’s a universal language and offers a chance for people to explore ingredients and learn something new, making it a perfect activity for groups as well.

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In the Pacific Northwest, there are myriad options for adding a culinary experience to your agenda. With so many methods, types of cuisine, and flavors to experiment with, there’s a recipe for everyone— even if you are not all that savvy in the kitchen. This makes inclusion easy and opens the door for planners to get creative with their choices.

Many catering services boast noteworthy options to get attendees bonding, such as The Fairmont Olympic Hotel Seattle’s Tea Noir, where groups can gather for a glamorous gala, or Boise Centre’s live-action cooking experiences led by chefs. Whip up delicious macarons or croissants at Seattle-based Whisk, an independent retailer providing group classes, kitchenware, bakeware, and more. In addition, websites like Cozymeal.com make finding team-building cooking classes simple, affording planners the ability to choose by not only chef but also your group’s preferred fare.

There’s no denying it: Food truly brings people together in a way few things do. So, to plan a meeting or event both memorable and mouthwatering, get your group together for some foodie fun, dig into the ingredients, and get a taste of what your group can accomplish together this year. In my household, these tasty experiences are prized and perpetual—what will you cook?

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PHOTO: ASHLEY DREWIANKA

CENTRE’D AROUND YOU.

Make an impact with your next event at Boise Centre. Our versatile meeting and event spaces, modern amenities, and expert event planning team is at your service to ensure an unforgettable event experience. Located in the middle of the city’s energetic, walkable downtown Boise Centre is surrounded by local breweries, restaurants, shops, hotels and is minutes from outdoor adventures. boisecentre.com

• Convenient downtown location

• Numerous direct flights and seven minutes from the airport

• Surrounded by restaurants, breweries, and nightlife

• Over 1,300 hotel rooms within walking distance

• Outdoor activities close by including hiking, rafting, biking, and more

1 CENTER

2 BUILDINGS

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.

Seattle Convention Center now offers two buildings in the heart of downtown Seattle. Customize our highly configurable space to fit your unique gatherings of all sizes.

Learn more about hosting your event at Arch, our original building, or Summit, the recently-opened addition.

S y at SCC.

seattleconventioncenter.com

Seattle Scores a Game Changer

» IT IS NOT EASY OR CHEAP to build a second convention center building in an urban area like downtown Seattle, but that was a clearable hurdle for the former Washington State Convention Center, which broke ground on the Summit Building addition in 2018. Renamed the Seattle Convention Center last year, the facility opened the Summit in January.

“This building is a game changer for our destination,” says Jeff Blosser, president and CEO of the Seattle Convention Center. “It really sets the stage for us to provide the right kind of space for clients as well as [to offer] additional dates. I think it really opens up that opportunity for us to be a demand generator.”

At a cost of $1 billion while adding 570,290 square feet of event space on five floors, the Summit doubles the amount of event space the convention center can offer and allows increased flexibility, enabling more than one show to run at the same time. In addition, the Summit is flooded with natural light and may well lead the nation in sustainability measures.

“We wanted to make sure that we let outside light into every space,” Blosser says. “There is a huge amount of glass, but there is also a major atrium that runs through the entire building. There is a large amount of reclaimed wood in the facility. … And we hope to be LEED Platinum-[certified] once we get everything done.”

The Summit also includes rainwater filtration for irrigation and toilet flushing, radiant heat floors on the south-facing side, carpets and other fabrics made from recycled materials, dehydrators that reduce the volume of food waste by 90%, and a rooftop solar array.

Some of these sustainable features, along with the downtown construction location, contributed to the hefty price tag of the Summit. However, Blosser says it is paid for through the convention center’s status as a King County public facilities district (PFD), a classification that allows the facility to issue bonds backed, in this case, by hotel taxes. The PFD, which owns both Seattle Convention Center buildings, also used funds they acquired over time to bankroll the seven-block-long Summit.

All that investment affected and will affect Seattle in profound ways, including 6,000 construction jobs and another 2,500 jobs in the building and ancillary businesses going forward.

In addition, the Seattle Convention Center projects $19 million in tax generation from the Summit, which is in addition to the $26 million generated by the original building before COVID-19, Blosser says. -Todd R. Berger seattleconventioncenter.com

The Signature Room in Seattle’s Summit building

Invigorating Adventures

Rustic and charming Teton Peaks Resort in Teton Valley, Idaho, creates idyllic experiences in the great outdoors. Situated on 5.5 acres, the resort is one of five properties owned and operated by Seattle-based Jet Hospitality.

With a plethora of alternative lodging accommodations from modern lodge bungalows and Tiny Mountain Homes (for up to six people) to RV sites and luxury “glamping” (camping with upscale amenities), there’s space for every type of visitor. “Anyone can come and enjoy regardless of what their adventure and experience style is,” says Whitney Brielle, chief marketing officer for Jet Hospitality.

The resort sits at the base of the glorious Teton Range and is less than an hour away from Jackson Hole, Wyoming—a central hub for breathtaking views and seasonal outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, skiing, and snowshoeing in and around Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks.

“The proximity to so many natural resources and wonders is pretty incredible,” she says. Other nearby sites include the Signal Mountain Summit Road, the Bridger-Teton National Forest, the Ashton-Tetonia Trail in Idaho State Park, and the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway. -Ava Diaz

tetonpeaksresort.com

GOOD TIMES & GOOD WINE

» AFTER A THREE-YEAR HIATUS, Taste Washington returns to the Evergreen State in Seattle this March. The festival is the nation’s largest single-region wine and food event, and this year’s celebration will exhibit the iconic two-day Grand Tasting on March 11 and 12, highlighting over 250 wineries alongside several of the state’s top eateries.

Other favorite events will also return, including The New Vintage, a soiree of wine, spirits, and late night eats with a live DJ; Sunday Brunch, where guests can gather and enjoy the ultimate comfort meal; and the Seminar Series, which brings together leading wine experts from around the country. To really wow visitors upon return, Taste Washington will be promoting two new opportunities to sip, eat, and gather,

including Pacific Standard, a nautically inclined evening spent highlighting and enjoying the region’s seafood; and a Dinner Series, connecting local chefs and winemakers for a memorable meal.

The Washington State Wine Commission partnered with Seattle-based production company SE Productions to host this event for its 24th time. “Taste Washington is a pinnacle festival for our state, and we can’t wait to see the Washington wine family gathering together in Seattle this March for the best one yet,” says Chris Stone, vice president of marketing and communications for the Washington State Wine Commission, in a prepared statement. -Amanda Christensen

tastewashington.org

MODERN TRAVEL MADE EASY

With service beginning summer 2023, the Vancouver Island Ferry Co. in British Columbia will bring “modern, reliable, friendly, highspeed, passenger-only ferry service” to the Pacific Northwest, says Alastair Caddick, CEO of the company.

Ferries will sail between downtown Vancouver, its port located just in front of the Vancouver Convention Centre in the heart of the waterfront, and downtown Nanaimo on the southeastern side of Vancouver Island. Ferries will launch from both sites five to 10 times per day, with sailings increasing depending on demand. A one-way ride will take about 70 minutes, an aspect that Caddick says will make for perfect day trips to or from the island.

Exact pricing will be announced this spring, but Caddick notes the company will offer affordable tickets to provide what he calls “modern travel made easy.”

-Amanda Christensen

vifc.com

Portland Named One of the ‘Greatest’ Places

» PORTLAND, OREGON, was featured prominently last year on Time magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places 2022.” Time says the list reflects “the hope that understanding and human connection can be found through travel,” and that the magazine chose Portland for its sustainability leadership, plethora of new hotels, and an international airport in the process of transformation. The city—featured on the list for the first time—is one of nine North American and Caribbean cities honored out of 50 locations worldwide, and those at Travel Portland, the city’s convention and visitors bureau, are tickled pink.

“We were extremely excited and humbled to be named to Time’s list of ‘World’s

Greatest Places 2022,’” says Desiree Everett, vice president of convention sales for Travel Portland. “It’s a testament to Portland’s resiliency, the creativity and drive of our community, and [the city’s] continued work to create an inclusive environment for all.”

Groups appreciate that the city can host gatherings commanding up to 5,000 hotel rooms, Everett notes, as well as the city’s quirky neighborhoods, including Buckman, NW 23rd, and the Pearl District. Budget-conscious planners appreciate Oregon’s lack of a sales tax, she adds.

-Todd R. Berger

travelportland.com

Cathedral Park in North Portland

The wake from a ferry heading to Vancouver Island

Pioneering Unparalleled Experiences

Discover Vancouver’s natural thrill.

BY AVA DIAZ

» AS THE MOST POPULOUS CITY

in British Columbia, Vancouver is a bustling seaport that is a favored destination by many from around the world. Surrounded by mountains, ocean, rainforests, and foliage that reflect the wonders of all four seasons, it is truly a place that fuses nature with cultural diversity.

“[Vancouver] is a different alternative to the West,” says Jackie Kavcak, director of meetings and conventions U.S. “We are probably one of few cities where the mountains meet the water and [also] has a close, compact city. … We are small but mighty.”

To maintain the accompanying environment to the lively city, Vancouver has a prominent green thumb. Greenspace, an organization established in 1971 that

supports the preservation and well-being of Mother Nature, helps the city pave the way toward a green, progressive future.

Implementing these positive practices has transpired into the fabric of the community—and for many businesses and organizations in the region, being ecoconscious has become a top priority. “We know what it takes to be green, and it is a huge commitment, but the whole city has taken a part [in it],” Kavcak says.

But its approach to nature isn’t the only notable factor. As the seventh North American city to have a Michelin Guide, Vancouver is home to a world-class culinary scene. In addition, it was also recognized for having the best airport in North America for 12 consecutive years by Skytrax World

Airport. And, after hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2010, the city will also host the Invictus Games in 2025 and some matches of the World Cup in 2026 (along with Toronto and cities in the United States and Mexico).

To offer a glimpse into the heart of the city, we highlighted some of the major attractions, venues, and accommodations in Vancouver that will take your meeting or event to the next level.

NOTEWORTHY ATTRACTIONS

“You could be 5 years old, or you could be 100 years old. … There is always something for you to do,” Kavcak says.

Head to the Salish Sea to go whale watching with Wild Whales off Granville Island. The guided tour provides attendees with the opportunity to catch a firsthand look of the pristine marine life of the wild Pacific Coast. With experiences for every type of adventurer, the company provides partly sheltered, open-air, and zodiac vessels to glide observers across the glistening water.

DESTINATION Vancouver

The seaside city of Vancouver offers a mix of urban amenities with natural charm.

VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE BY THE NUMBERS

» Canada’s largest waterfront ballroom at 53,000 square feet for up to 3,000 dine-in or 6,000 theater-style

» Six exhibition halls totaling 311,500 square feet of space

» 72 meeting rooms

» 57,964 square feet of outdoor plaza space

» 18 foyers equating to 150,000 square feet of space

The Vancouver Aquarium offers a larger-than-life peek at what life is like under the sea. Wander through exhibits showcasing ecosystems spanning the globe from Canada’s Arctic to the Amazon Rainforest, with creatures like penguins, frogs, sea otters, and jellyfish to name a few. The Marine Mammal Rescue Center, one of the largest rescue facilities in the world, features an exhibit with rescued seals and sea lions in the B.C. Wild Coast Exhibit center.

The aquarium is also a great location to host your event. Nestled in the natural landscape of the region, the stunning venue boasts space for up to 2,000 guests alongside the company of 65,000 aquatic animals.

If sea life isn’t for you, there are other ways to enjoy the natural features of the region. Stroll through the city’s first and largest urban oasis, Stanley Park. Where cedar forests meet sandy beaches, the park serves as the perfect space to sprawl and relax. Explore the dense 1,000-acre temperate rainforest trails, golf at The Stanley Park Pitch & Putt, bring your own food to dine at one of the stunning picnic areas for up to 150 people, or walk along the Seawall, the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path.

One can also parade through the lush, climate-controlled paradise at Bloedel Conservatory. Located at the city’s highest point in Queen Elizabeth Park, the domed venue showcases schools of koi fish, over 100 free-flying exotic birds, and 500 tropical plants to roam among. This unique setting also provides a refreshing, intimate space for up to 50 people.

For a getaway within arm’s reach, catch a water taxi to Granville Island to interact with the local scene and see the indoor public market, which Kavcak compares to Seattle’s famous Pike Place Market. With loads of dining options, colorful produce, and handcrafted goods, there is truly something for every visitor.

A GOLD-STAR VENUE

The Vancouver Convention Centre—the first to be double LEED Platinum-certified—is deemed one of the most sustainable convention centers in the world. “These initiatives are embedded in our day-to-day operations,” says Zayn Jinah, media relations manager for the Vancouver Convention Centre. “For us, sustainability is an everyday practice, and every one of our staff and suppliers are committed to delivering exciting events while helping to protect the environment.”

PHOTOS: FAIRMONT HOTEL VANCOUVER / NOTCH8

An aerial view of Vancouver Convention Centre’s East Plaza; Above: Stanley Park

PHOTOS: ADOBE/EDB_316; VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE; OPPOSITE: FAIRMONT HOTEL VANCOUVER

Pass the Plate

Vancouver is known for its food scene with its star chefs, worldly influences, and local ingredients. Get a forkful of some of the delectable grub around town. To start, visit Notch8 Restaurant & Bar at the historic Fairmont Hotel Vancouver for glamourous regional fare and prized classics from pre- and post-Prohibition eras for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. To experience the taste of French cuisine and the culture of Quebec, visit the Michelin Starred St. Lawrence. Or, for food that encapsulates the flavor of the local habitat from a contemporary, yet sustainable approach, venture to Published on Main or Hawksworth Restaurant on West Georgia Street.

Located along the Seawall in the heart of downtown, the Vancouver Convention Centre is in proximity to a plethora of amenities. Near the SeaBus for a quick trip to Lonsdale Quay in Northern Vancouver and the Canada Line for fast transportation to and from Vancouver International Airport, it is also a walkable distance from Stanley Park, the Jack Poole Plaza—home to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games cauldron—and the Vancouver Art Gallery.

There is also a variety of on-site dining options including Chop Steakhouse & Bar, Mahony’s Tavern, LOT185 Cafe + Wine Bar, and Uno Gelato, as well as bike rentals and the Club 16 Trevor Linden gym.

WHERE TO STAY

As a registered Heritage Property, the Castle in the City, otherwise known as the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, has served the region’s tourists since 1888. Just a seven-minute walk from the Vancouver Convention Centre, a mere two blocks from the Skytrain, and within minutes of the area’s top shopping centers, this historic hotel is the perfect setting for your meeting or event. The venue has the capability to host groups of up to 1,000 within its 63,000 square feet of flexible meeting spaces between boardrooms, hospitality suites, ballrooms, and The Roof, which features a skyline view of the city. For an eco-escape, the Fairmont brand also offers the Fairmont Waterfront. Located on the Harbourfront with breathtaking views of Stanley Park, the mountains, and the city skyline, this hotel features 24,000 square feet of meeting space spanning from hospitality suites to private terraces and the stunning Waterfront Ballroom.

Above: The private dining room at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s Notch8 Restaurant & Bar is used for a themed afternoon tea service every Thursday to Sunday, with regional menus and a curated collection of unique teas.

For a serene getaway, the Bowen Island Lodge is the perfect location to not only connect with nature but also with one another. Just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver in Deep Bay, this escape boasts 24 guest rooms with three meeting rooms to host up to 150. Enjoy hikes by Mount Gardner, stroll the shores of Killarney Lake, and take part in other activities like kayaking, cycling, bocce ball, paddleboarding, and yoga.

destinationvancouver.com

Earth’s Natural Wonders

National parks offer endless opportunities to gather in the heart of Mother Nature.

BY AMANDA CHRISTENSEN

» IT IS A SPECIAL FEELING to stand in a national park in awe of the looming mountains, deep canyons, or plunging waterfalls. Gathering in spots like these offers stunning backdrops and provides peaceful space for attendees to bond. Several hotels and venues near natural wonders in the Pacific Northwest offer a multitude of event amenities and endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

To host your event in the company of the region’s diverse flora and fauna, read onward for some notable places that will give your meeting an all-natural boost.

OREGON

Crater Lake National Park is over 180,000 acres of striking geological features, and its namesake lake fills the caldera of the long-ago-destroyed Mount Mazama volcano. About two hours south in Ashland is Grizzly Peak Winery, a 40-acre property with

views of Grizzly Peak and Mount Ashland. Originally established in 1998, the winery plays host to events like concerts, weddings, fundraisers, and wine tastings. There is also an indoor barrel room to host private events during the off-season.

Three hours southwest of Crater Lake National Park in Cave Junction is Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve in the Siskiyou Mountains. Spanning over 4,000 acres, the park is home to a marble solutional cave system that formed in limestone millions of years ago. If you are looking for an experience to complement the caves, host your group at Vertical Horizons Treehouse Paradise, also in Cave Junction. The venue is open year-round and is home to four treehouses for overnight stays for up to 16 guests and outdoor space for private events of up to 100. “On-site, we offer fishing, disc golf, and technical tree climbing,” says Jodie Moskios, owner and operator of the venue. There is also nearby recreation including whitewater rafting, wine tasting, and zip lining.

WASHINGTON

The Evergreen State is home to North Cascades National Park, a remote wilderness with more than 500,000 acres 2.5 hours northeast of Seattle. In the spring and summer, it’s accessible via state Route 20. (Due to avalanche danger, the roadway between Ross Dam Trailhead and Lone Fir Campground is typically closed from November to April.) “The drive over [to the park] on Highway 20 is worth it; it’s absolutely gorgeous,” says Abby Bange, co-owner and manager of Rolling Huts, a “glamping” and event venue in nearby Winthrop. Offering a farmhouse, six modern huts, and several canvas tents for up to 60 overnight guests, as well as an on-site barn for events of up to 120, the property is front and center with nature. And the national park nearby provides a variety of outdoor activities from hiking and river rafting to backcountry skiing and fly-fishing.

To the west, Olympic National Park is one of the most visited parks in the country. In between Seattle and the Pacific Ocean, the nearly 1-million-acre park boasts some of nature’s most stunning scenery, including the country’s only temperate rainforest. “We are blessed with being surrounded by a grand experience with nature next to Olympic National Park,” says Jim Carlson, owner of The Elkhorn Ranch in Lake Quinault. The 80-acre venue is on one of the original homesteads of the Upper Quinault Valley and has space for outdoor events and a 15,000-square-foot barn for indoor gatherings.

BRITISH COLUMBIA AND ALBERTA

Crossing the border, the national and provincial parks in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada, abound with serene wildernesses and cozy venues to host your event. To the south of Alberta’s Banff National Park in the town of Banff is The Juniper Hotel & Bistro, a 52-room independent hotel embracing roots with the culture of

Clockwise from left: Sun Valley Resort; lodging from Rolling Huts; Sol Duc Falls in Olympic National Park; The Juniper Hotel & Bistro patio

the Shushwap people, and a local experience with nature. “There [aren’t] too many places in this area that are not beautiful,” says Debbie Kerr-Hunter, sales and events manager for the hotel. The property has two private meetings spaces, the Vermilion Room and the Kiguli Room, as well as the on-site restaurant, Bistro. Mount Engadine Lodge is a secluded property in Canmore, Alberta, near Banff National Park and British Columbia’s Yoho National Park. Open year-round, the backcountry lodge has road access and capacity for up to 40 guests. With a chef on staff, all meals are included in the reservation. Other nearby venues include Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Moose Hotel & Suites, and Hidden Ridge Resort.

IDAHO

The Gem State is home to a noteworthy natural wonder in the south-central region of the state. Made up of lava flows and scattered islands of cinder cones and sagebrush, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve sits in the Snake River Plain and features 410,000 acres of National Park Service-managed land. “It really looks like the moon,” says Jenna Vagias, public relations specialist at nearby Sun Valley Resort. The 399-room four-season resort is about an hour drive away from the preserve and offers team-building activities like golfing, bowling, and skating on the outdoor ice rink.

“It’s a unique place that hasn’t lost its Western flair,” notes Brent Gillette, director of sales for the resort. Alongside a nearly 10,000-square-foot convention center, the resort has 25,000 square feet of meeting space and an outdoor pavilion that can seat 1,500 people. Sawtooth National Forest is nearby to the west and offers endless views of stunning mountainous scenery.

Whether you want seclusion or a full-fledged resort experience, there are plenty of memorable options available in the heart of our planet’s wondrous and lively landscapes.

ban hiddenridge.com

elkhornranchevents.com

grizzlypeakwinery.com

thejuniper.com

marriott.com

moosehotelandsuites.com

mountengadine.com

nps.gov

parks.canada.ca

rollinghuts.com

sunvalley.com

treehouseparadise.com

The majestic Mount Engadine Lodge in summertime; Above: Moraine Lake in Banff National Park PHOTOS: ADOBE/MARIDAV; NICK FITZHARDINGE

2023 GOLF GUIDE

Across the United States, golf resorts provide planners with an array of world-class facilities in breathtaking settings.

PHOTO: ADOBE/ROSIEAPPLES

Mastering the Terrain

GOLF GOES BEYOND just green grass and on-target putts that drop in the hole—it’s a game that brings people together in the great outdoors. With a variety of globally recognized course styles to choose from, it is important to know the difference between them, how they impact play, and the obstacles each presents—from sandy deserts and breezy waterfronts to forest-lined grassy stretches.

To better understand the role landscapes have in the way people play around the world, we explored the different categories of golf courses across varying topographies.

Championship Course

As courses designed to host tournaments, championship courses are defined by their 18 holes of challenging play. The Omni PGA Frisco Resort in Texas, set to open this May, will offer the chance to play two 18-hole championship courses—Fields Ranch East and Fields Ranch West. If your skill set isn’t up to par to master a championship course quite yet, the resort also features simulation and coaching experiences, as well as a 10-hole course, a par-3 course, and a 2-acre putting area. omnihotels.com

Desert Course

With only the playing corridors—the fairways, putting greens, and tee box—consisting of grass, desert courses are a green oasis in dry, sandy landscapes. Using the natural surroundings to their advantage, the sand dunes and rugged terrain provide a formidable set of natural obstacles on the course.

By Ava Diaz

Ranked as Arizona’s No. 1 public course, the Saguaro at the We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is a year-round escape for golfers who reside in colder regions. The Saguaro—which features a oneof-a-kind course design that follows the natural contours of the land—is also prideful of its efforts toward preserving the native soil of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. wekopa.com

PHOTOS: ADOBE STOCK/DAVID A. LITMAN; OPPOSITE: ADOBE STOCK/VLADIMIR BYCHKOVSKY; ADOBE STOCK/JOHN

A simple guide to the topographically distinct varieties of golf courses worldwide

Links Course

Heathland Course

A heath is an extensive area of uncultivated land. Although it is inland, a heathland course contains very few obstructions, and typically contains coarser soil and a spread of heather, or evergreen perennials with woody stems that either support needlelike leaves or small flowers. Heathland courses are usually less manicured and do not require as much maintenance.

While this type of course is most popular in Britain, a well-known course in the United States is the Legends Golf Resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This heathland course, with its lack of dense vegetation, is inspired by courses in the British Isles. legendsgolf.com

Links Course

Known as the oldest style of golf course, links courses were developed in Scotland—the birthplace of modern golf. Being one with nature, this type of course relies heavily on the surrounding terrain to create ideal play following the contours of the land. Typically built along or near a coastline, links courses are often amid a series of natural hills, ridges, and dunes with very little water or vegetation to obstruct shots.

One of the most well-known links courses in the United States is in Pebble Beach, California. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Pebble Beach Golf Links is arguably one of the best public courses in the country. Golfers play a stunning course that showcases the diversity of its surroundings with its steep bluffs and expansive seaside views. This acclaimed course has hosted six U.S. Opens and is set to host eight more major championships into 2044.

For a midwestern feel with freshwater serenity, try for one of Boyne Golf’s 10 courses spanning three resorts—Boyne Mountain, the Inn at Bay Harbor, and The Highlands—in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. This group of resorts is also part of a diverse lineup of seven resort properties in Michigan including a collection of 22 golf courses in America’s Summer Golf Capital. (Other resorts in the capital collection include A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort, Crystal Mountain, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, and Treetops Resort.) The golf club at the Inn at Bay Harbor provides a links experience like no other along the shores of Lake Michigan. With a rugged quarry landscape and a preserve that hosts the first half of a round amid a hardwood forest, the challenging course has breathtaking views. pebblebeach.com; boynegolf.com; americassummergolfcapital.com

Parkland Course

Built inland and away from the coastline, parkland courses tend to be greener with more trees and dense grass. The well-manicured and partially constructed details like ponds and bunkers create the feeling of playing in a neighborhood park—hence its name—and provide players with a course that is suitable to various climates.

One of the most famous versions of this course is the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. As host to the Masters Tournament, the course is most well known for its impeccable appearance for optimal play. Magnolia Lane, the road with overarching magnolia trees from the entrance to the clubhouse, leads visitors to a place that accentuates the natural beauty of its environment. To emphasize the role that trees play in the experience, each hole is named after a tree or shrub that can be found at that location of the course—honoring the land’s roots as a former fruit tree nursery. masters.com

Sandbelt Course

This course is classified by the topography found near Melbourne, Australia. Home to sandy soil, this type of landscape makes for an ideal environment to play in because, to many people’s surprise, sand is a desired element due to its light weight and ability to drain excess moisture from the course. In addition, sand can also help level out the green to create a more consistent and smoother surface for year-round play.

Desert Course

Parkland Course

BOYNE Golf

231-549-6012

boynegolf.com

WHEN YOU ARE PLANNING AN EVENT or conference, nothing is more important than knowing you have chosen the right location to help make it a success. With over 100 room types and more than 3,000 beds, the three extraordinary resorts at BOYNE Golf—Boyne Mountain, Inn at Bay Harbor, and The Highlands—have all the options to meet your needs and create a memorable event.

BOYNE Golf offers one of the top golf venues in the United States to play, boasting 10 championship-caliber courses. These courses include the 2019 National Golf Course of the Year, along with others identified by Golf Digest, Golfweek, Golf magazine, and Golf.com as “Best Courses You Can Play in America.” Designed by legendary architects like Arthur Hills, Robert Trent Jones Sr., and Donald Ross, these outstanding courses offer unexpected terrains, boundless visuals, and a golf experience that defies comparison.

While the golf is epic, the trip is easy. Boyne Resorts and courses are conveniently located near the interstate. Cherry Capital Airport in nearby Traverse City offers direct service from 17 United States cities, and the private airport at Boyne Mountain has recently undergone a $4 million upgrade to handle larger private aircraft.

Start planning your most memorable event ever at one of BOYNE Golf’s resorts today.

THE GOLF, EPIC. THE TRIP,

Visit Frisco

972-292-5250

visitfrisco.com

HOME TO SEVERAL PROFESSIONAL SPORTS ORGANIZATIONS, a growing museum district, and more than 9 million square feet of retail and dining space, Frisco, Texas, is the perfect destination for your next event. From world-class event facilities and full-service hotel properties such as Omni PGA Frisco Resort, Embassy Suites

Hotel & Conference Center, Omni Frisco Hotel, The Westin Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa, and Hyatt Regency Frisco, Frisco can accommodate both small and large events. The properties total 4,400 hotel rooms and 417,000 square feet of meeting space.

Located just 25 minutes north of Dallas, Frisco boasts an impressive golf selection. Dubbed Sports City USA, the city is home to PGA of America headquarters and the Omni PGA Frisco Resort, which opened in spring 2023. The resort features two 18-hole championship golf courses—Fields Ranch East by Gil Hanse and Fields Ranch West by Beau Welling—as well as a 2-acre putting course, entertainment area, and a 10-hole short course. There are also three public courses: Frisco Lakes Golf Club, The Trails of Frisco Golf Club, and Plantation Golf Course.

Choose one of the fastest growing cities in the United States and the home of PGA of America as the location for your next event.

ROOM FOR THE WAY YOU PL AY

Meetings, your way.

Top-rated resorts and meeting spaces for all the ways you work, play, and stay.

Learn more at VISITFRISCO.COM/MEETINGS

America’s Summer Golf Capital

americassummergolfcapital.com

TEE UP BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES at America’s Summer Golf Capital. America’s Summer Golf Capital is a collection of seven resort properties representing 22 golf courses. Located in a picturesque region of Northern Michigan known for its turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and small-town charm, it acts as the perfect combination of long summer days and comfortable weather—great for a round or two.

America’s Summer Golf Capital includes A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort, Crystal Mountain, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, Treetops Resort, and Boyne Golf—The Highlands at Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor Golf Club, and Boyne Mountain Resort. Each property offers multiple courses to satisfy your group size, skill level, and interest, plus dining options on and off the course.  Experience where passion meets perfection.

BIG SHOTS

HOW THE TECH DO IT

Pulling off a five-day event with 935 attendees from more than 35 countries is challenging, but planners preparing for 3D Basecamp at the Vancouver Convention Centre in September 2022 had an advantage: The entire building was scanned to create a 3D model.

“Every column, every railing, every door, everything had exact measurements,” says Aubree Topai, senior events manager at SketchUp, a 3D software company in Boulder, Colorado. During team planning calls, convention center workers, audiovisual and production partners, and people on 10 committees within SketchUp viewed the model on their computer screens. They could plug in every element—from chairs wayfinding to a 30-foot tree in line with the event’s camping theme—and place them with confidence.

You might say that it’s easy for SketchUp to do this for its conference, which gathers management, developers, sales teams, and clients. But less techy planners can also use it.

“We actually have a ton of free learning resources on our website,” Topai says. “So, it doesn’t matter your skill set, as long as you have the will to learn new technology.”

Fortunately for those who don’t consider themselves techsavvy, technology is usually scalable to varied experience levels—and planners can learn from the big tech companies, adding similar elements to their own events.

MEETING MODES

The Pacific Northwest boasts an array of trends that give events a high-tech boost.

BY TERESA BERGEN

Since the start of the pandemic, many planners adapted to the tech world as events switched from live to virtual to hybrid. And Beth Surmont, vice president of business event strategy and design at 360 Live Media (a Washington, D.C.-based company that has produced events throughout the Pacific Northwest) predicts that getting the hybrid experience right will continue to be the most important meeting trend of 2023. As many people refrain from travel, companies don’t want to create secondclass experiences for virtual attendees, Surmont says. “Improved session production, content repurposing, shared challenge apps, and more are all being used to engage people and show them they are part of something bigger.”

In Idaho, the Boise Centre invested heavily in video production equipment in the last few years. Ali Ribordy, director of sales, and Stacie Lisby, senior event manager, note that technology is the most prominently changing aspect of the industry. After eventually downsizing the venue’s event studio, Boise Centre retained the ability to stream presentations, auctions, and sessions from any location within the convention center—such as a Boise-based tech company’s three-day convention last July with 550 attendees plus livestreaming sessions across the globe.

Lynn Edwards, owner of Proper Planning, an event company in University Place, Washington, likened the virtual platform market to the Wild West. When she put out a request for proposals for virtual platforms in mid-2020, bids ranged from $6,000 to $96,000. It was a major project just to understand what the different companies offered. Proper Planning, which manages the technology news website Geekwire’s events, as well as many other big tech companies, did more than 60 events in 2021 using 30 different tech platforms.

The biggest challenge with virtual events is engaging people at home and keeping their attention. Edwards found that virtual attendees appreciated an online networking space just for them. She especially likes Twine, an interactive digital tool, for one-onone meetings speed-dating style. At another large event with 1,500 people on-site and 5,000 people online, Edwards made sure that both in-person and virtual attendees had a chance to ask post-session questions to the keynote speaker. “Every element of your show needs to be evaluated. Does this work in person? Does this work online? Does it work for both?”

TECH CHANGES STORYTELLING

People have returned to in-person meetings, but not in the same ways, says Rob Wilcox, director of sales engineering at Encore, a global event producer with many partners in the Pacific Northwest. “Their attention spans have waned, and it’s taking more to earn their attention—and their attendance.”

In essence, sessions are getting shorter. In an era where TikTok videos have become the norm, Edwards says the traditional hour slot has shrunk to 25 minutes max. She encourages keynote speakers to aim for a staccato effect, using pithy videos to break up their speeches. Instead of reinforcing what the speaker says, videos need to expand it. “You are not going to get away with death by PowerPoint anymore,” Edwards says.

Despite the emphasis on screens, they don’t replace people. At a recent 500-person meeting at the Seattle Convention Center where the lunchtime keynote speaker appeared via Zoom, Edwards stood up and asked people to stop talking—the first time she did that in her 30 years of event planning. Contrast this with the closing keynote speaker, who appeared in person. “The room was locked on her,” she says. “They weren’t talking, they weren’t distracted. Zoom fatigue is a real thing.”

These pages and the following: Attendees partake in various interactive activities and digitized experiences at the 3D Basecamp event, presented by SketchUp, at the Vancouver Convention Centre last September.

USER-GENERATED CONTENT AND ENGAGEMENT

People no longer expect or accept a one-way flow of knowl edge from speaker to audience. Virtual meetings and an ever-growing desire for connection have made digital engagement platforms more relevant than ever. “Now that these technologies are in the spotlight, event technology providers are making big strides in making them more applicable and to provide greater purpose in meetings and events,” says Wilcox. Encore’s arsenal of engagement tools includes digital signage, collaborative whiteboards, 3D projection technology, LED walls, array sound, camera tracking, and custom lighting. The technology allows you to poll participants, boost networking, increase sponsor return on investment, and deliver content.

Surmont especially likes a digital drawing tool called Piccles. People draw on their devices, sometimes at the prompt of a facilitator, then the drawings appear together on a big screen. “The tool allows people to express themselves in different ways, and it helps to create that feeling of community whether people are on-site or attending digitally,” Surmont says.

At 3D Basecamp, a 20-foot social media wall connected in real time with the events app. As people uploaded their comments and photos to the app, they appeared on the big wall. The board transformed the solitary act of looking at comments on a phone to a shared group experience. Organizers could also show photos of lost-and-found items, push attendance to different events and trade show booths, give sponsor shoutouts, and reinforce branding. “It was a great way to level up the pushpin board,” Topai says.

“It doesn’t matter your skill set, as long as you have the will to learn new technology.”

–AUBREE TOPAI , senior events manager, SketchUp

THE ‘WOW’ FACTOR

“Coming back in person is all about creating that ‘wow,’ and it starts with your main stage,” Surmont says. She has noticed many companies are using large LED video walls instead of screens and projectors to make a stronger impression. “The content really pops due to the brightness of the screen,” she says. Surmont has also seen projection mapping—a technology that lets you project video onto any surface, flat or curved—used to create compelling visual elements. “Pillars, rooms, even entire buildings can be transformed with projected images, creating the illusion of motion or displaying immersive messaging,” she says.

Topai was especially excited about two new elements she tried for the first time at 3D Basecamp. The first is The Catchbox, a foam box with a microphone inside. At 3D Basecamp, speakers threw it to audience members during Q&A sessions. “You could actually throw it pretty far, like a football,” Topai says. This noteworthy tech elevated the experience beyond just another Q&A. Second, for a big party during the event, Topai used 3D Holo fans on either side of the DJ booth. To coordinate with the event’s camping theme, as the fans rotated, they projected floating 3D images of flapping butterflies and hummingbirds, a running fox, and crackling flames. “Everybody was completely blown away by them,” Topai says. “You couldn’t stop looking at them. They seriously looked like something from the future.”

The gaming industry is also influencing meeting and event technology, spurring companies to experiment with mixed reality, where the physical and digital experiences merge. Surmont has followed advances in augmented reality, which lets people use their

phones to interact with digital elements, no headset required. “We are seeing a lot of this in brand activation,” she says.

For 3D Basecamp, Topai and her team ran a competition called Curious Creatures. A few months before the event, participants submitted mashups of various creatures. The 10 winners were featured in an on-site augmented reality scavenger hunt. Using QR codes, people could make the augmented reality creatures pop-up in hallways and take selfies with them.

Simultaneous translation and captioning are important trends for making sessions more inclusive and accessible—the Wordly app is a great example. “The artificial intelligence translation is decent but not perfect,” Surmont says. “This is great for breakout sessions, but I would recommend still using a human captioning service for the main stage.”

ENTRY-LEVEL TECH

For younger planners who are digital natives, incorporating new technology may come naturally. However, for longtime planners, these tech advances can be a tough adjustment. Edwards suggests analyzing the whole agenda to see where technology can be incorporated, then begin to source and research adequate tools. Even small innovations can have big payoffs. Remember that trade show staple of having attendees drop their business cards into a fishbowl to win prizes? “We have started using QR codes as an easy way for attendees to enter our contest with their phones,” says Michael Mahanay, chief revenue officer of CTL Corp, a computer manufacturing company based in Beaverton, Oregon. The QR code opens a Google Form where attendees enter their contact information, which is automatically saved in a spreadsheet. Then, CTL Corp. imports the information into its customer relationship management software.

Another helpful tool are radios, Topai says. “I’m always dumbfounded that meeting planners do not use this technology. When you have one second to solve a problem, being able to get on the radio and ask that question and get an answer instantly is the most powerful tool any event planner can have.”

So, where do you start? Ask your audiovisual company and other trusted partners. “Our teams have seen and operated a full gamut of tech solutions and are always willing to offer suggestions and guidance throughout the planning process,” says Ribordy at Boise Centre. “We can tailor as much or as little information technology services needed to help each event meet its objective.”

Edwards asks her trusted audiovisual partners to keep her up on technology, sending her pictures and costs of new innovations. “You have to be a student of the industry,” she says. “Don’t be afraid of technology. Embrace it. We are built to change, so apply that to technology.”

“Don’t be afraid of technology. Embrace it.” –LYNN EDWARDS , owner, Proper Planning

PHOTOS: KIM BELLAVANCE

ZOOMING FORWARD

Gen Z embraces hospitality like no other generation.

Born between 1997 and 2012, Generation Z is not only the largest generation in the United States, but it is also the most diverse and digitally inclined. According to the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), as Gen Zers enter the workforce, many are interested in altruistic employers—a primary reason why the hospitality industry has caught the eye of 51% of the generation. This group brings with them unique insights into the digital landscape, along with an investment in social responsibility and professional altruism. If employers treat them well, they will be looking at the next band of well-informed, sociable, and committed industry professionals.

Why Hospitality?

Who is Generation Z?

Gen Z is the demographic cohort succeeding millennials and preceding Generation Alpha.

The AHLA says they spend more time online than any other generation, providing a level of media literacy unique to this generation.

45% of Gen Zers are already working part- or full-time, reflecting an interest in good pay and benefits from employers.

The top three things this generation looks for in an employer are ethical and altruistic standards , a fun and friendly environment , and equitable leadership, according to the AHLA. These characteristics are prominent in the hospitality industry, thus making it an attractive career choice.

51% of Gen Zers are interested in hospitality careers. Events manager and hotel manager are the top desired job titles within the industry, the AHLA reports.

Offering the Work Criteria

Gen Zers Care About

Getting the Industry on Gen Z’s Radar

72% 81%

of Gen Zers learn about jobs from job websites (AHLA).

of Gen Zers prefer email to communicate with employers (AHLA).

Focus on Compensation

» According to Salary.com, the average wage in hotel management with five years of experience is $112,966

» The median pay for a graduate with a hospitality management degree with less than a year of experience is $46,400, according to Business Management Degree.

» Glassdoor reports that the average wage for entry-level event managers is around $44,000

Getting the Degree

According to Data USA, 17,825 degrees in hospitality management were awarded in 2020 in the U.S.

Public two- and four-year universities are the most common institutions to obtain hospitality degrees.

Bachelor’s degrees are the most frequently sought type of degree when pursuing hospitality management.

Median tuition for in-state public institutions is $6,429

The three institutions that awarded the highest number of hospitality management degrees in 2020 are Florida International University, University of Central Florida, and University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Pay and benefits

Engaging work

Opportunity for career growth

Flexible work hours

Boasting Sustainability

The 150-room AC Hotel Vancouver

Waterfront is now LEED Gold certified, an acknowledgement of the property’s ongoing eco-friendly initiatives.

“It shows our dedication to environmental sustainability,” says David Lenke, the hotel’s general manager. The property has several environmentally friendly measures in place, including a recycling program, a food waste program focused on composting, and energy management systems including water reduction plans.

“Climate change is a very real thing,” he says, noting that if the hotel and others can do their part in curbing their carbon footprint, it may help alleviate climate change.

The hotel’s sustainability efforts are also seen on the property’s two decks home to all-natural landscaping and native plants— and due to the area’s rainy climate, little water from the hotel is needed to maintain them. One deck, Terazza del Rio, is located on the fourth floor with one-third of the space available for events and guest

A REBRAND IN BOISE

» OPERATING IN BOISE FOR NEARLY 40 YEARS , the Boise Convention and Visitors Bureau rebranded as Visit Boise last summer, with a redesigned logo set to launch this year. During the development of the organization’s most recent threeyear strategic plan, the destination marketing organization wanted to improve search engine optimization and offer an expanded website experience to “hopefully entice [visitors to Boise] to stay longer or come back for [another] trip,” notes Carrie Westergard, executive director of Visit Boise.

The updated website provides a better user experience and new elements like the Plan Your Trip feature, which allows visitors to design itineraries based on activities they are interested in and the time of year they wish to travel to the city. “[Visit Boise] is more all-encompassing of what we do,” Westergard says. visitboise.com

use—providing an intimate gathering area with views of the Columbia River.

Of the 11,000 square feet of flexible event space, the hotel’s largest ballroom allows for 225 guests to be comfortably seated or 250 standing. Other amenities include a 1,500-square-foot fitness center, two culinary concepts, a modern audiovisual system, and a wellness studio that opened last November.

marriott.com

PHOTOS: GABE ROTH; VISIT BOISE

STAYPINEAPPLE IS EXPANDING

Pineapple Hospitality in Bellevue, Washington, announced on Jan. 17 that it will launch Staypineapple Hotels Inc., which will take over management of the 10 Staypineapple properties across the country this year.. Managing private boutique hotels since 2010, Pineapple Hospitality provides a strong base for businesses to acquire thirdparty licensing and property management via Staypineapple Hotels Inc.

“We now feel confident that we’ve perfected our systems and services and are ready to launch Staypineapple Hotels Inc., … [which] will share the Staypineapple brand with our fellow hoteliers as a new and groundbreaking hotel flag option,” says Todd Boysen, president and CEO of Staypineapple Hotels Inc., in a prepared statement.

The new management company’s executive leadership team made its first official public appearance at the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s annual Americas Lodging Investment Summit in Los Angeles on Jan. 23-26.

There are four Staypineapple hotels in the Seattle area—The Maxwell Hotel, Hotel Five, Watertown Hotel, and University Inn—along with one in Portland, Oregon, Hotel Rose. Each offers private spaces for groups and events with lively urban centers as their backdrop.

& Trends

PEOPLE NEWS

Brandon Near will oversee the daily culinary operations as the new senior chef de cuisine for the Water’s Table, Sip Lounge, Dock & Drink, and the Market at the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport. He will also manage the culinary programming for special events and will partner with Pastry Sous Chef Amy Tung to develop desserts for future menus. With an educational background from the Renton Technical College culinary arts program in Renton, Near brings with him over 20 years of culinary experience.

Ronald Moore is the latest addition to the culinary team at the Yakima Convention & Event Center in Yakima, Washington.

As the new executive chef, Moore brings a rich gastronomic background as a current member of the American Culinary Federation and as the former executive chef at the Legends Casino in Toppenish and the Toyota Center in Kennewick. He is also the former owner and executive chef of Asian fusion restaurant, Mangoz Grill, in Yakima.

William F. Whitney is the new executive chef at the Icicle Village Resort in Leavenworth, Washington. His role oversees the entire culinary vision for the resort, which includes the JJ Hills Fresh Grill restaurant and the food services that cater for the event spaces. Starting his career in food and catering services at Honolulu’s Marine Corps Base Hawaii, his home state, he eventually dabbled in other roles at popular restaurants across Oahu and beyond. He brings over 17 years of professional experience to the Icicle Village team.

THE PERKS OF COLUMBIA HOSPITALITY

Workplace-culture website Comparably recognized Seattle’s Columbia Hospitality for its perks and benefits. The employees of the hospitality management company provided the votes for the “Best Perks and Benefits” honor, bestowed last October. It was the only hospitality management company represented out of 100 winners.

Columbia Hospitality manages and oversees myriad properties, from hotels to conference centers to golf courses—many located in its home state of Washington, but also some in Oregon, California, and Wisconsin.

Hugo Moreno, the company’s vice president of people and culture, explains that they use Comparably to obtain and understand data about team member engagement, compensation, benefits, and other metrics to mark where Columbia Hospitality compares to other companies in and outside of the hospitality industry.

“We want to be the type of company that [takes] care of our team members so they can take care of our guests,” he says. Comparably recognizes the benefits for team members like paid time off, health and dental insurance, holiday pay, and competitive compensation, alongside other elements like hotel and rental car discounts. Moreno also notes the company invested in mental health support, partnering with Talkspace, an online therapy company, to offer team members enrolled in the benefits program’s mental health care.

columbiahospitality.com

Microsoft Ignites in Seattle

» LAST OCTOBER, MICROSOFT welcomed over 3,500 attendees to the Seattle Convention Center’s Arch building for the company’s first in-person flagship event since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The annual conference, Microsoft Ignite, brings together the world’s top internet technology professionals and developers for live forums, demonstrations, and networking opportunities.

“The Seattle Convention Center rose to the occasion and was filled with energy, reimagined space usage, and celebration,” says Kelly Saling, senior vice president and chief sales officer of Visit Seattle, in a prepared statement.

Beyond the convention center, over 300,000 people registered to join Microsoft Ignite’s remote digital component, along with thousands participating at five additional in-person events around the world.

microsoft.com

seattleconventioncenter.com

visitseattle.org

Unity in Color

Members from four Washingtonbased events organizations dressed to impress at the Unity Joint Association Mixer (JAM) a Black and White Ball at the Canvas Studio and Event Space in Seattle last December. Attendees from the International Live Events Association (ILEA) Seattle Chapter, Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Washington State, National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) Seattle and Tacoma Chapters, and Wedding Industry Professionals Association (WIPA) sipped on festive refreshments from Firewater Bar and enjoyed a fusion of flavors from Navi’s Catering and Aha Party Co. while they mingled among the black, white, and chartreuse decor.

1. David Schwartz 2. Fiona Pepe

3. Angela Doherty and Daisy Bower

4. Alex Martin 5. J.D. Fields, Wendy Bouillon-Wojcik, and Mark Jacobs

6. Jana Heinrichs 7. Cher Fuller, Nikeeta Sharan, and Lydia Essex White 8. Beth Herron, Eric Klippert, and Kevin Nash

9. Truong Dang and Kiry Kenyon

Digital Edition

Regional stories on the top meeting and event venues, advice from professionals, and reports on food, beverage, decor, technology and more… AT YOUR FINGERTIPS!

MEETINGSMAGS.COM/NORTHWEST-DIGITAL-EDITIONS

Bringing Aviation Down to Earth

Lena Lee’s work at Seattle’s Museum of Flight connects clients with the sky and beyond.

BY AMANDA CHRISTENSEN

Lena Lee started as the private event coordinator at the Museum of Flight in Seattle in 2019, transitioning to private event manager in 2021. However, her desire to pursue a people-oriented role in event management was fostered from her educational experiences at the University of California San Diego, where she pursued international studies, economics, and linguistics. “It really opened my mind to different cultures and issues of the world,” says Lee.

Alongside her classes, Lee was involved in several extracurricular activities, namely joining various student organizations, that also helped her in her eventual career. One was membership in Future Business Leaders of America, offering Lee the opportunity to step into different leadership roles and learn the skills needed for such positions. Post-graduation, her career began with event planning for company parties, gatherings, and team activities.

“That [is what] ultimately led me to the museum,” Lee says. Having lived in the Evergreen State for nine years now, Lee notes that building relationships has become a pivotal aspect of her professional career. These relationships, along with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, have inspired Lee and the rest of the Museum of Flight team to get creative with their event planning to ensure safety measures are in place while also providing a memorable event from start to finish.

The bigger picture for Lee is the ability to connect with people of all sorts, emphasizing her passion for culture, representation, and diversity both in and outside of the industry. “I think [the museum] really just speaks to all kinds of people,” she says. Regardless of demographics or interest, the 24-acre museum has something to enjoy for everyone.

This passion for caring for others comes from her parents. “They both taught me the meaning of strength, generosity, kindness to others, and to not forget to have a little fun,” Lee says. And to see the smiles on clients faces when visiting the museum, whether for leisure or an event makes the hard work worth it. “That’s why we do what we do,” she says.

PHOTO: PATRICK TAK

MeeTiNg spAces aNd so mUch moRe.

Sure, Boise has inspired meeting spaces for all kinds of events, large and small. But unlike other cities, you’ll also find award-winning restaurants, a scenic river, mountain trails and vibrant culture just steps from your venue.

Start planning today at Visitboise.com/meetings

WE ARE SPOKANE and we’re nooooooot what you expect

We are committed to the environment.

In 1974, the rst environmental themed World’s Fair was hosted right here in Spokane. The Garbage Goat (who actually eats trash) was created for this spectacular event and is still in use today, serving as a reminder of Spokane’s long standing commitment to reduce our environmental impact.

Today’s Spokanites have used this history as a foundation for what’s next: a place where warmth, pride and kindness collides with responsible environmental stewardship.

Meeting in Spokane’s LEED Silver Certi ed riverfront Convention Center and connected hotels will put you at the center of it all. This includes being within walking distance to killer restaurants and venues, diverse nightlife and breathtaking nature.

Everything you expect a city in the Northwest to have...plus meeting here comes with a reduced carbon footprint!