AROMATIC EVENTS HOW TO INCORPORATE SCENTS INTO A GATHERING Boundless{22} EXPLORE 5 DESTINATIONS IN ALASKA » 29 WARM & COZY GATHER YOUR GROUP AROUND THE FIRE {24} MEETINGSMAGS.COM // WINTER 2020 Beauty
•Largest convention center east of the Cascades, with room for groups with up to 1,600 guests •Variety of room sizes to t every need •Silver LEED Certi ed convention center •4 1,000 square feet of exible indoor space •Ideal Central Oregon location overlooking the Deschutes River •Combines the dramatic natural beauty of Bend with the Northwest contemporary style CALL NOW FOR A PROMOTIONAL OFFER* 855.798.5811 | RIVERHOUSE.com *For new business booked and consumed in 2020 only. Subject to availability.
2 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 Winter 2020 NORTHWEST MEETINGS + EVENTS MAGAZINE: IN THIS ISSUE 6 EDITOR’S LETTER 20 TABLESCAPE Shelly Tolo brings her trade mark warmth to the table. By Teresa Kenney 22 TREND REPORT Make your event scent-sation al. By Tiffany Rose Goodyear 24 VENUE REPORT Gather ‘round these Northwest fireplaces with your group. By Teresa Kenney 48 PEOPLE PROFILE Hyatt Regency Bellevue’s Bronson Harbottle brings the care to customer service. By Teresa Kenney DEPARTMENTS 24 FEATURES 29 Go Wild in Alaska We offer five good reasons to visit Alaska: Anchorage, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan and Fairbanks. By Teresa Kenney 20 ANCHORAGEVISITPHOTOGRAPHY;MORRISCARENARGAST;PATRIKPHOTOS:
At the Washington State Convention Center, we know that only by working together can we accomplish our goals. That’s why we consider our sta our most important asset in delivering the quality event experiences we’re known for. And when you hold your event here, you can consider our team a part of yours.
Give us a call. Let’s collaborate on your next event. or sales@wscc.com
www.wscc.com /WashingtonStateConventionCenter @WAConvention 206-694-5060
4 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 44 2020Winter MEETING NOTES 11 SELF-SERVE Two companies bring the bar to hotel rooms. By Kassidy Tarala 12 OPINON The Portland chapter of ILEA is growing. By Kevin Molesworth, CSP 14 OPENING SOON Washington County fairgrounds to welcome new event space. 15 CVBS Put yourself in the middle of Vancouver, B.C.’s movie action. 48
Cheers, Find, Friend, Follow Find us online at nw.meetingsmags.com, and make sure to “like” us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram to stay in the loop between issues.
AMERICA’S mountains
Also, in our Meeting Notes, be sure to read the article by Kevin Molesworth. A few years ago, with help from other professionals in Portland, he set out to transform and grow the Portland chapter of the International Live Events Association. As a result, he’s helped to create a strong, active association that serves the industry well. And, OK, if you are not really a fan of winter, you can always head elsewhere for a destination meeting or event. Our Beyond the Border article takes you on a trip to San Antonio, Texas, where three different hotels under one brand can create a distinct experience for your group (page 18). As always, thank you for spending your time with us. If you have any news or ideas for articles, please reach out to me at Teresa.Kenney@tigeroak.com.
/NWMEETINGSMAGS @NWMEETINGSMAGS /MEETINGSMAGS /MEETINGSEVENTSMAGS
Teresa Kenney, editor TERESA.KENNEY@TIGEROAK.COM
In this issue, we look at one of our favorite wintry destinations: Alaska (page 29). Yes, sum mer might be the time most people visit the 49th state, but winter is the time for northern lights, Iditarod racing and skiing. We asked representatives from five of the state’s convention and visitor bureaus to tell us where to meet, what to see and what to do while there (regardless of the time of year you visit). We also look at some of the region’s favorite fireplaces (page 24). They are great spots to gather ’round for a VIP event, post-meeting chat or glass of wine. In our Trend Report (page 22), contributing author Tiffany Rose Goodyear shares how to raise the bar on your next event by engaging all your guests’ senses, including smell. Scents can add another dimension for your event, evoking emotion just as much as décor and music. And boy oh boy, have we found the feel-good story of the year for you in this issue. Check out our profile on Bronson Harbottle with Hyatt Regency Bellevue on page 48. (I’m not crying, you’re crying.) His story is a fabulous example of the lives we touch in the hospitality industry.
I THINK WINTER HAS A BAD PR REP. The other seasons have their fans, but winter is rarely the answer when someone asks, “What’s your favorite season?” For me, though, there’s just some thing about winter. Shorter days mean I can snuggle under the covers with a good book and a hot cup of tea much earlier in the day without feeling guilty. It means I get to wear sweaters and earmuffs, and I can light the fire in the fireplace. Seriously. What’s not to love?
A Winter Wonderland
6 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 EDITOR'S LETTER
Doloveyouit? MEETINGSMAGS.COM // FALL 2017 CVBs weigh in on trends and how they best support planners (26) STATUS UPDATE AMERICA’S RIVIERA Ocean meets mountains in stylish Santa Barbara DINING ON HIGH Take a peek at a winemaker dinner hosted at Meritage Resort & Spa Entertainment and venue options are limitless in Las Vegas (32) Jackpot! + MEETINGSMAGS.COM // WINTER 2018 WATERSIDE VENUES ALONG LAKES AND RIVERS ARE SCENIC SPOTS FOR GROUPS RAISING THE BAR THE NEXT LEVEL OF THE EXPERIENCE ECONOMY IS EMERGING CHANGE DIRECTION Grand County’s beauty and activities chart the course BREAK MINDFULNESSFOR Pushing pause during rechargesmeetingsattendees PLANNERS + VENDORS = ? Pro tips on building and maintaining relationships with vendors ADVENTURE ABOUNDS Explore the vast wilderness of Ketchikan, Alaska MOUNTAIN SAME BUT DIFFERENT Travel to local cities with familiar names MEETINGSMAGS.COM SUMMER 2017 $6.00 Majesty ELEVATE EVENT EXPERIENCES AT THESE 5 MOUNTAIN RESORTS VEGAN AND RESTAURANTSVEGETARIANPACKAFLAVORFULPUNCH MEETINGSMAGS.COM // SPRING 2018 $6.00 BLANK CANVAS Art galleries make for inspiring event spaces PLANNERS GONNA PLAN Wear the shoes of 4 di erentprofessionalsindustry STAY IN STAMFORD This Connecticut town elicits high praise meeting-goersfrom PLEASE Veggies, MEETINGSMAGS.COM // FALL O BeatenthePath SMALL BUSINESS OWNERSSUCCESSSHARESTORIES (38) CREATIVE EXPRESSION Minnesota abounds with artsy venues FEELS LIKE HOME Find comfort in the little these small hotels and ICEBREAKER NONTRADITIONAL ACTIVITIES BRING PEOPLE CLOSER TOGETHER (45) BY THE WATER DINE LAKESIDE AT FOUR LOCAL VENUES (26) NEWBIES NO MORE CATCH UP WITH FORMER UP-AND-COMING HALL OF FAME HONOREES (38) MEETINGSMAGS.COM SPRING 2018 $6.00 USA HOTELSHIP DETROIT ROUNDS OUT ITS HOTEL BASE WITH NEW BOUTIQUE HOTELS (32) FRESH POW Area ski slopes make winter easier to bear OUTSIDE THE CITY Traveling to the suburbs means more options for planners MEETINGSMAGS.COM // WINTER 2018 HOLIDAYS EXTENDED Plan seasonal office parties into 2018 Trend FORECAST Flip to page 30 to meet the Impossible Burger, a plant-based patty that replicates meat. See what’s new for 2018 in food,technologydécor,andvenues GATHER IN GALVESTON PRIVATE DINING ABOUNDS IN THIS ISLAND CITYMODERNIZED MOTELS MOTOR COURTS ARE MAKING A COMEBACK MEETINGSMAGS.COM // FALL 2017 HITROADTHE RESTAURANTS OFFERINTERSTATEOFF35GREATEATS&CONVENIENTACCESS (48) In Case Emergencyof Pro tips to prepare you for the worst-case scenario (41) Then keep it coming. MEETINGSMAGS.COM/SUBSCRIBESUBSCRIBEFORFREEand receive quarterly issues chockful of regional content on topics like: » trend reports on F&B, décor, team-building activities and technology » expert advice from top meeting and event professionals » new venue spotlights » people profiles » local and “beyond the border” destinations MEETINGSMAGS.COM FALL 2017 O BeatenthePath SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS SHARE THEIR SUCCESS STORIES (38) CREATIVE EXPRESSION Minnesota abounds with artsy venues (47) FEELS LIKE HOME Find comfort in the little things at these small hotels and inns (28) AMERICA’S RIVIERA mountains in stylish Santa Jackpot!
For a unique and memorable retreat meeting or business event, please consider Silvies — a new destination. Our courteous staff of hospitality professionals will make your gathering (large or small) stress-free, from initial planning to the finale. The conference services, golf, lodging and spa offer unparalleled comfort for any Whetheroccasion.you’re here for a business meeting, a celebration or family gathering, you'll find our downhome Western service and accommodations unsurpassed. We strive to provide an experience we think you’ll agree is, Simply Amazing! Meeting Space for 4 to 40 Break-Out Rooms Overnight World-ClassAccommodationsDiningSpa&IndoorFitnessCenterManyOtherActivities Free for Event Planners : Silvies Introductory Package All inclusive 2 night, 2 day stay at The Retreat, Links & Spa at Silvies Valley Ranch for visits before May 1, 2020.* * For qualifications, restrictions, what’s included and availability, visit www.Silvies.us/NWME SILVIESSIMPLYAMAZINGSINCE1883 The Retreat, Links & Spa at Silvies Valley Ranch 1-800-SILVIES www.Silvies.us/NWME info@Silvies.us
10 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 WHERE YOUR MEETING GOALS MEET THE GREAT OUTDOORS. Plan your meeting getaway at visitsitka.org/meetings Direct ights from Seattle. 500+ lodging options. Walkable downtown. A place as unique as your meeting.
NW.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 11 Meeting Notes PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION SIGNATURE DRINK 14 CVBS 15 PARTNERSHIPS 16 BEYOND THE BORDER 18
Plum Wine Since opening its first in-room taps in 2018 at the Four Seasons in Silicon Valley, Plum Wine has been bringing wine, beer and spirits to guests’ rooms in 22 hotels across the United States. The Plum amenity houses up to two bottles of wine that can be preserved for up to 90 days using argon gas. “Similar to a Nespresso machine, when a guest wants a glass of wine or spirit in the convenience of their hotel room, they just press a button,” says founder David Koretz. Koretz says meetings and events planners can customize Plum to their attendees’ liking by offering a unique experience to sample many local wines and pair them with the hotel’s menu. “It’s all about exceeding guest expectations. Guests today aren’t just looking for a bed to sleep in; rather, they crave an experience that allows them to indulge and feel catered to. They crave an experience that exceeds what they can get at home,” Koretz says.
In-hotel wine, beer and cocktail taps are bringing the bar right to your room.
The hotel bar is a fun, convenient option to unwind after a long day of meetings, but with companies like Plum Wine and PourMyBeer, hotels are now taking it one step further: They’re bringing the bar to your room. That’s right—throw on that plush robe and slippers because you no longer need to leave the room to get a drink.
BYO BARTENDER
PourMyBeer With self-pour taps in hotel lobbies across the United States and Canada, PourMyBeer offers guests the opportunity the pour their own wine, beer, kombucha or cold brew and bring it back to their rooms. “Guests can use their room key to get a beverage of their choice any time they want and pour it by the ounce. For example, some hotels can have bars only open for a few hours a day, limiting their beverage sales. This is not an issue with self-pour technology, which allows the guest to access the beverages around the clock,” says Tana Rulkova, marketingPourMyBeermanager.allows guests to access only two drinks at a time, but if a guest requests more, hotel staff can give their keycard access to twoThoughmore.
A Plum canister, which serves more than 1,000 pours, uses cloud and artificial intelligence to identify the label of a bottle of wine, beer or spirit, and it automatically sets the perfect temperature for each bottle.
POURMYBEERWINE;PLUMPHOTOS:
PourMyBeer has the capability to install a tap in each individual guest room, Rulkova says it is more cost efficient and lower maintenance for hotels to serve these kegged beverages in a tap located in the lobby for all guests to use. “We want to offer an easy-to-deploy mobile dispense solution to hotels that they can activate for events or just everyday use in the lobby,” Rulkova says. —Kassidy Tarala
Get Connected
PLUM WINE | plum.wine POURMYBEER | pourmybeer.com
12 NWM+E | WINTER 2020
It’s no secret that association membership has been in a steady decline for more than a decade. This is true not only for event professional associations but for associations dedicated to virtually every industry—from agricul ture and aerospace to landscaping and legal. While many will claim this decline is due to cost-cutting, a deeper survey will show that it is the perceived lack of value of the association model and its offering. In spite of these facts, the Portland chapter of the International Live Events Association (ILEA) is defying the downward trend and reinvigorating the city’s event professionals. When I relocated to Portland a couple of years ago, it was clear that the chapter was facing some difficulties. It had not produced any educational meetings or events for over 28 months, and as of July 1, 2018, the chapter had only one member: me. Fast forward to one year later, and we had grown to 43 members, including an 11-person board of directors. Our journey was hardly the result of a magic wand. When I first arrived in Oregon, I had a list of only three names and no real personal connection to any of the local event professionals. I knew that if the chapter had any hope of rising again, that I would first need to get the buy-in of the best-known and most respected event industry stakeholders. With a bit of research and persistence (border ing on stalking), I was able to schedule several meetings with some of the city’s top venues, caterers and production companies. It was in the early stages of this process that I met Kathy Sobotka. Her contribution to the chapter’s resurrection cannot be overstated. For you “Game of Thrones” fans out there, she was (and still is) my Brienne of Tarth. Kathy has been an influential member of the Portland event world for more than a decade. Before forming her own production company nearly two years ago, she had worked for a large catering company, and through that experience, she seemed to know everyone in town. Her network combined with her enthu siasm were essential in laying the new founda tion for ILEA Portland. Prior to moving west, I was part of the ILEA Austin Chapter. I served on the chapter’s board of directors in several roles, including president. In my time there, we grew from just over 50 members to nearly 400 in only four years. We were honored with 12 Spirit of Excellence Awards and named Chapter of the Year by ILEA International for three consecu tive years. Utilizing all that I had learned while in Austin, the plan to rebuild ILEA Portland was simple: Kathy had the connections. I had the strategy. And together, we were deter mined to make it work. Our focus would be on community and education. Through social media channels and a quick Google search, event professionals can now access unlimited information and training that one could only access through associations some 10 years ago. With the next generation of workers moving away from traditional means of relationship building, we set out to encourage our members to engage with our community of professionals who shared common goals and values. Basic behavioral science clearly shows that we create stronger bonds with the indi viduals that we meet face-to-face, shake hands with and share a laugh. Email and social media might be a more efficient means of connecting, but they are rather hollow when compared to real-life interactions. By providing a welcom ing, safe environment, one in which their voice
SELBAKDEENA(OPPOSITE)GRIFFITH;COLSONPHOTOS:
PHOTOGRAPHY PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION
OPINION» A ROSE CITY REVIVAL Growing ILEA Portland. BY KEVIN MOLESWORTH, CSEP
14 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION Just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean you can’t have a little hol iday-inspired cheer (and by “cheer,” we mean alco hol). Try this super-easy, super-tasty drink recipe from The Benson Hotel. DIRECTIONS: Fill a glass or copper mug with ice. ADD: —1.5 ounces vodka —2 ounces cranberry juice —juice of half of a lime —fill/top with ginger beer SIGNATURE DRINK» The Washington County Fair Complex in Hillsboro, Oregon, will be welcoming a new event and conference center this sum mer. The 89,000-square-foot Wingspan Event & Conference Center will provide year-round opportunities for large com munity gatherings. The center will include exposition space, a state-of-the-art con ference center with a commercial kitchen, concessions, a large entry plaza, and an outdoor exhibit area that opens into the interior grounds of the fair complex. The new venue will offer various room configu rations sized to accommodate consumer shows, conferences and trade shows, cor porate meetings and seminars, banquets and receptions, fundraisers, festivals, spec tator events and a variety of other commu nity uses. faircomplex.com OPENING SOON» NEW CONFERENCE CENTER COMING TO HILLSBORO KHONASACHINARCHITECHTS;LRSISTOCK.COM/@A_NAMENKO;PHOTOS:
There’s an App for That British Columbia’s JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and the DOUGLAS located in Parq Vancouver are making it easier for event planners to manage their events at the venues with the Marriott Meeting Services App, managed by the JW Event Concierge. The app allows planners to request, respond and connect in real-time with hotel event staff on any webenabledActingdevice.asaliaison between guests and the hotel team, the concierge app assists the banquet team with operational needs and any special arrangements. With the services app, event planners can manage events on the go, relieving stress. Parq Vancouver has more than 60,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, including a sixth-floor rooftop park. parqvancouver.com
SO, YOU WANNA BE IN MOVIES
Put yourself in the middle of the action next time you visit British Columbia. All three of the movies in the “Descendants” global franchise were filmed in Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Fans can snap selfies with popular characters, unlock clips from “Descendants 3” played against the back drop of where they were actually filmed, and complete exciting missions. The first-of-its-kind self-guided adventure was built by Vancouver-based AR/VR company QuestUpon and created by Tourism Vancouver and Disney Channel. Visit the App Store and Google Play and download the free QuestUpon app. Then, select Disney “Descendants 3” in Vancouver.TheARadventure encourages fans to visit key filming sites, such as Britannia Mine Museum and the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, and Hatley Castle and the BC Parliament Buildings on Vancouver Island. You can use your phone to unlock site-specific film clips, movie- and tourism-inspired trivia, scavenger hunt-style missions, and AR animations, such as a for midable dragon and avatars of fan favorites, including Mal, Evie, Audrey and Uma. Vancouver, B.C., is a Hollywood favor ite. The city has become a sci-fi and fantasy hub. Small-screen fan favorites shot in Vancouver include “Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events,” “Supernatural,” “Once Upon a Time,” “Arrow” and “The Flash,” as well as old-school series spanning the range of “21 Jump Street” to “MacGyver.” tourismvancouver.com
NW.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 15
TECHNOLOGY»
CVBS»
PARTNERSHIPS» AN EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBER
Visit Seattle and Airbnb are partnering to promote and broaden local-led Airbnb Experiences, which provide authentic, unique adventures for visitors. Airbnb Experiences offer travelers unprecedented access to communities, places and activities they’d never have through traditional tourist travel, such as rowing through Seattle’s urban waterways with a Guinness World Record holder or visiting Ballard’s small neigh borhood breweries with the director of a documentary about the local craft beer industry. With experiences and places to stay located throughout Seattle, Airbnb brings the economic benefits of tourism to neighborhoods that haven’t typically benefitted from visitor spend ing. visitseattle.org
16 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 MOVEBOOTH(OPPOSITE)BOISE;ZOOAIRBNB;PHOTOS: PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION
TOURISM» Zoo News In 2019, Zoo Boise unveiled its 2.5-acre, $8.9 million expansion, that features a partnership with Gorongosa National Park in Africa. The Gorongosa expansion includes wild African dogs, baboons, Nile crocodiles, hyenas and much more. Proceeds from each zoo admission goes into a conservation fund supporting endangered species. More than $2 mil lion has been donated to conservation to Zoodate.Boise is available for private cele brations. Add-ons for events can include animal presentations or zookeeper chats, conservation cruises in the lagoon to the African Plains exhibit, giraffe encounters and unlimited carousel rides. zooboise.org
Global DMC Partners’ alliance with Balti Virtual will allow meeting pro fessionals the opportunity to boost their next events with augmented reality invitations, reality photo ops, augmented 3D agendas, virtual aug mented gifts and customized scaven ger“Thehunts.opportunities are truly endless, so we see VR and AR becoming more and more prominent at events and conferences over the years,” Rougeux says. globaldmcpartners.com —Kassidy Tarala
Movebooth is connecting brands and people through their event-friendly photo station. BY SOPHIE JONSSON Everyone’s looking for the perfect picture. At an event where you’re surrounded by friends, family or colleagues, everyone wants to capture a special moment. And since 2014, Movebooth has been helping people to do just Movebooth isthat. an iPad kiosk or selfie sta tion that can be set up in five minutes to give participants digital keepsakes in forms such as photos, gifs or one-of-a-kind ani mations, all of which can then immedi ately go on an array of social and online platforms. The technology can be set up almost anywhere and works at any type of event, largely due to the endless creativity that users and event organizers have in creat ing their own Movebooth experiences. From use at birthday parties to NBA events, Movebooth users have the option to tailor the company’s software to the needs of their events through a variety of visual and copy customizations. Movebooth works with event planners and brand sponsors to make sure that the heart and soul of the event is dis played in the memories that are capturing it.
TOOLS»
AIN’T NO PARTY LIKE A VR PARTY
NW.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 17
GLOBAL DMC PARTNERS IS TEAMING UP WITH BALTI VIRTUAL IN NEW AR/VR OFFERING. Global DMC Partners is bringing on Balti Virtual as one of its strategic alli ances to provide a brand-new AR/VR program for meeting and event plan nerToclients.launch this partnership, Global DMC Partners is debuting its new AR brand mascot, Global Girl or G.G. By downloading the free AppAR8 app from the iTunes app store or the Google Play store and scanning the Global DMC Partners logo, clients can take photos or video with G.G. and experience her repertoire of cul tural“Thedances.goalof this partnership is to offer something new—augmented and virtual reality event experiences—to our clients around the world,” says Erin Rougeux, Global DMC Partners director of marketing and database management. “Balti Virtual’s capabili ties are almost limitless when it comes to creating a custom AR or VR experi ence—whether it’s a virtual invitation to the event or a live AR event experi ence that includes a fun photo op.”
MEMORIES MOVEBOOTH MAKES
While Movebooth has been developing and refining its technology since 2014, Brice Gramm, founder and CEO of Movebooth, knows it’s all about the human connection that is happening. “Once people start taking photos with the Movebooth app, it’s smiles and laughs all around,” he says. With the unique branding for the event already in place, guests don’t have to do anything but get creative. That laughter is also backed up with stats, with Movebooth earning a 97 percent overall satisfaction rating from its clients. Movebooth offers multiple rental or pur chasing options to best suit the needs of your event. Package options to pick from include rent, buy, or subscribe, all of which include a selfie station kit with an iPad, rolling hard case, and Movebooth Pro features for the duration of the rental or purchase period. Get Connected MOVEBOOTH | 407.495.2479 | movebooth.com TECH»
The hotel has three floors of meeting space, including the 21,222-square-foot Lone Star Ballroom on the second floor and the 30,906-square-foot Texas Ballroom on the fourth. The total meeting space equals more than 115,000 square feet, and its décor, as sug gested by the hotel’s brand, is grand.
Grand Hyatt
two ballrooms: the Regency at 10,700 square feet and the Rio Grande at 4,264 square feet. Plenty of smaller spaces allow for meetings of all sizes—from board meetings of 18 to breakouts of 110 classroom style. The Losoya Conference Center directly across the street from the hotel offers a great option for groups of up to 250 for receptions, banquets and lectures. Also nearby is La Vista Terrace, a stun ning setting for a VIP party, wedding or private celebration. Overlooking the Alamo, this penthouse is luxurious without losing its warmth, comfortable without sacrificing elegance and has a full kitchen, living room with fireplace and both indoor and outdoor spaces to gather and commiserate.
With 115,000 square feet of meeting and event space and its location adjacent to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, the Grand Hyatt knows how to get right down to business. The hotel includes two upscale post-meeting gathering options: Ruth’s Chris Steak House for fine dining and Bar Rojo for handcrafted cocktails. The hotel also has an outdoor heated pool overlooking the city that can be used for private receptions.
If you’d like to hold an event away from the hotel, consider one of the city’s celebrated restaurants, such as Iron Cactus Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar (ironcactus.com). Set right on the Riverwalk, the restaurant has five private dining rooms which can accommodate 40 to 500 guests. The atmosphere is upscale without being fussy, the food is superb, and the service is attentive and gracious. For farm-to-table culinary artistry, try Meadow Neighborhood Eatery + Bar (meadowsanantonio.com). The restaurant is located outside of downtown San Antonio and almost hidden away on the Alley on the Bitters. The warm and welcom ing husband-and-wife team of PJ and Lindsey Edwards are focused on seasonality, with plen ty of vegetarian options that will sate even the omnivores in your group. The Meadow has a private dining room, a bar, a large outdoor courtyard with fireplace, and the entire restau rant is available for buyouts.
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full advantage of its prime location within walking distance of the Alamo and other visi torThedestinations.hotelfeatures
HYATT HOTELS | hyatt.com
NW.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 19
The hotel’s amenities include a rooftop pool, fitness center, Q Kitchen and Q Bar. And of course, there is the entire Riverwalk just beyond the doors, waiting to be explored.
VISIT SAN ANTONIO | visitsanantonio.com Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk private dining room
20 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 FOR PLAIDLOVETHEOF
Shelly Tolo shares the genius behind her winter tablescape with NWM+E BY TERESA KENNEY PHOTOS BY CAREN MORRIS NWM+E: What was your inspiration for the tablescape?
TOLO EVENTS | toloevents.com Floral IRIS & PEONY | irisandpeony.net Linens CLOTH CONNECTION | clothconnection.com Photography CAREN MORRIS |
TOLO: First, I love plaid, so any time I can use it, that’s great. The overall vision [for the design] is about layer ing and bringing nature to the table. Having different and unique elements helps to keep a table interesting for the guests. It’s great to do this detail at an event by mixing in different styles of votive candles or multiple size floral, but also at home by including little elements to make your winter-themed table spe cial like silver birds and any element that matches your special occasion. I also love including natural elements, such as birch, wood slabs, berries or holly from your backyard. Using items to create tiers for a smaller vessel of florals to sit on enhance the overall design so elements sit at various levels down the length of the table. Get Connected Styling and Rentals carenmorrisphotography.com
NW.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 21 TABLESCAPE TOLO EVENTS
Much of the scent industry is based on neu tralizing offensive odors. This can be a use ful tool when thinking about bathrooms for your events. Bringing a candle or small reed diffuser into these intimate areas can create positive experiences for guests. Another way to bring scent into an event is to strategically pair the scent to match the theme.
BY TIFFANY ROSE GOODYEAR EVENT PROFESSIONALS ARE CONSTANTLY THINKING ABOUT how to best stimulate our guests’ senses to create the most memorable experience and greatest impact, whether it’s a wedding, corporate meeting or event, fundraiser or social gathering. Many people focus on only three of the five senses: taste, sight and sound. Rarely do planners pay attention to touch or smell. Strategically paying attention to scent and how it interacts with other sensory experiences can greatly impact the overall quality of an event.
SCENTS MAKE SENSE
22 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 HERBSTVANBRADLEYPHOTOS:
How to strategically use scent to enhance guest experience.
The fact of the matter is events and venues all have a unique smell, whether or not you plan for it. Strategically scenting an event space can become another instrument in your symphony of creating magical and memo rableOftenexperiences.overlooked or dismissed, scent is important to the way human beings interpret their surroundings and create meaning every day. In fact, the sense of smell is the only sensory receptor that is fully developed at the time of birth. It is also the receptor that is most closely linked to memory. Our ability to taste is directly linked to smell. Our taste buds are chemoreceptors and have the ability to detect and distinguish chemicals; it is the aroma of food that brings the flavors to life. Scenting spaces is not something new. It has been used as a tool for creating sacred space for hundreds if not thousands of years. The ritualistic use of incense is an integral part of Catholic masses. And in ancient Mesoamerica, indigenous tribes used a resin from the cabal tree as part of their rituals to create sacred space. The reason it’s important to think about scenting your selected venue is because the space is already scented. Either the space has its own distinct smell, which is not always pleasing, or you are bringing in scents through the fragrance of flowers or aromas from food.
TREND REPORT SCENT
For International Live Events Association (ILEA) Denver’s ScentEvent meeting at GrantHumphreys Mansion in September, The Sentologist, a pioneering consulting firm that creates sensory-based experiences, worked closely with the caterer to create four unique spaces. Each of these spaces included comple mentary décor and were paired with a culi Tiffany Rose Goodyear speaking at ILEA Denver’s ScentEvent meeting
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THE SENTOLOGIST | sentology.com | 202.812.1218 Desert at the ScentEvent meeting was paired with a peppermint scent.
NW.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 23 nary creation. At the entrance to the event, The Sentologist paired a Red Hook Manhattan with the scent Red Leather with notes of oud, tobacco and bergamot. To show diversity in the use of scent, the planners created spring and fall rooms with food, décor and scent to bring them to life. For spring, a scent called springtime with notes of white tea, green leaf and jasmine was harmo nized with ricotta toast topped with peas, wal nut and pesto. The room was filled with fresh non-fragrant flowers. For fall, a fragrance called Amish Harvest, with notes of clove, cinnamon and dried fruit, was used. This was complemented with a savory course featuring a fall salad and cotechino with polenta. The décor was a cornucopia of pumpkins. Dessert provided by Yours Truly Cupcake featured bisvi (a traditional Swedish dessert), Kahlua French macarons and cookie sandwiches. The sweets and coffee service were paired with peppermint wafting through the air. “Incorporating strategic scent brings brand stories to life in a way that is both visceral and inspiring,” says Dovie Lopez, regional sales manager of ACCESS Destination Services and past president of ILEA Denver. “I hired The Sentologist to create unique scent experiences to complement some of our largest events. Recently, The Sentologist created a scent called Winter Tree to enhance our ‘Into the Forest’ theme. Coupled with over-the-top décor and bespoke catering, the scent was the keystone to transporting the more than 700 guests from a hotel into a forest.”
If you have the opportunity to add a scent, make sure to do so in an area that is sepa rate from other smells or pairs with them. Choose scents the same way you choose other event elements and weave them into the theme, overall look, décor and audience demographic. Remember that all spaces and events have a distinct smell and that you have the opportunity to alter the aroma to elevate your guests’ experience.
VENUE REPORT GRAND FIRESIDEFIREPLACESCHATS
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Gather ‘round these Northwest fireplaces with your group. BY TERESA KENNEY ONE OF THE BEST THINGS ABOUT THE CHILL OF WINTER IS THE WARMTH OF A ROARING FIRE. Northwest venues are particularly adept at creating spaces where guests can gather and collaborate around a stunning fireplace that is as much a work of art as it is a necessity. Here are some of our favorites. The fireplace in the grand foyer of the Whistler Convention Centre is a Rumford design.
In addition to serving as an inviting space to relax and read, the 1,060-square-foot library functions as a gathering place of inspiration, knowledge and celebration. It was designed in a warm palette with a sophisticated residential feel inspired by the city itself and the way resi dents live today. The space features more than 3,000 books, each signed by their authors, who include Nobel Prize and Pulitzer Prize winners, U.S. Poet Laureates and a former U.S. president.
WHISTLER CONVENTION CENTRE Whistler, British Columbia
The Whistler Convention Centre’s fireplace draws your eye as soon as you walk through the door. Located in the center’s grand foyer, the fireplace stands 40-feet tall and is a Rumford design: shallow and angled to radiate heat more efficiently. It’s perfect for winter meet ings in this mountain town. The rocks sur rounding the fireplace are all locally sourced from the region. The design is a perfect fit for the ski-chalet feel of the 6,500-square-foot room, which also boasts large wood beams and ample natural light. The foyer can accom modate 800 people for a standing reception.
The 151-room Heathman Hotel has 3,800 square feet of meeting space and can accom modate up to 200 guests for meetings, confer ences and social gatherings.
HEATHMAN HOTEL
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Portland, Oregon
The historic Heathman Hotel in Portland boasts one of the city’s most luxurious fireplac es. But what else would you expect from a highend, historic hotel built in the 1920s? Located in the library, the dramatic fireplace is original to the hotel and is clad in white handcrafted artisan tile and underscored by herringbone wood flooring and comfortable seating.
The Whistler Conference Centre is undergoing a renovation this winter and will reopen mid-March. The redesign will include upgrades to lighting, acoustical treatments, floor and wall coverings, furnishings and artwork.The conference center offers more than 40,000 square feet of versatile meeting space with the ability to host a wide variety of con ferences and events.
SKAMANIA LODGE Stevenson, Washington Skamania Lodge’s 85-foot tall, 500,000-pound river-rock fireplace greets visitors as they enter the lodge. Made from rock sourced from a local tributary, it’s a fitting tribute to the 175 acres of wilderness the lodge is set on. The blacksmith work on the piece was done by Darryl Nelson from Fire Mountain Forge. If sitting around the fire inside is too “tame” for you, the lodge has several outdoor fire pits for guests to gather around and enjoy s’mores or a glass of Overlookingwine. the Columbia River Gorge Heathman Hotel’s elegant fireplace is in its 1,000-plus-square-foot library.
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SAWTOOTH CLUB | sawtoothclub.com
SKAMANIA LODGE | skamania.com
SAWTOOTH CLUB Sun Valley, Idaho Imagine warming yourself around the same fireplace that author Ernest Hemingway used to relax by to converse with local residents. That’s exactly the experience to be had at Sun Valley’s Sawtooth Club. Fellow author Hunter S. Thompson once wrote of the venue, “[Hemingway] could sit in The Sawtooth Club and talk with men who felt the same way he did about life, even if they were not so articulate. In this congenial atmosphere he felt he could get away from the pressures of a world gone mad and ‘write truly’ about life as he had in the past.” Many of the dishes at the historic and popu lar bar and café are cooked over a mesquite wood fire, and the bar menu includes a selec tion of handcrafted cocktails and approxi mately 20 wine and 10 craft beer options. The venue offers a number of spaces for private parties, including the second-floor outdoor terrace, an upstairs dining room and a mez zanine. Or the entire dining room can be reserved for up to 150 people.
VENUE REPORT VENUES WITH FIREPLACES
WHISTLER CONVENTION CENTRE whistler.com/meetings National Scenic Area, the 258-room lodge’s décor features wood tones and stony tex tures, giving it an upscale feel without being stuffy. Lounging areas offer floor-to-ceiling windows, and throughout the lodge is a collec tion of original works by Native American and regionalSkamaniaartists.Lodge has 22,000 square feet of conference space including 23 meeting rooms, exhibit space and banquet facilities. Its Riverview Pavilion offers 2,500 square feet of covered outdoor space.
Get Connected HEATHMAN HOTEL | heathmanhotel.com
Skamania Lodge’s main fireplace is 85 feet tall and weights approximately 500,000 pounds.
Want five good reasons to meet in Alaska? We’ve got ’em: Fairbanks, Anchorage, Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan. BY TERESA KENNEY Alaska GO WILD IN FairbanksAnchorage Juneau Sitka Ketchikan Al
The Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center, Egan Center, and Alaska Center for the Performing Arts are all located in a fourblock stretch in downtown Anchorage. Meeting hotels include the Hilton Anchorage, Sheraton, Marriott, Hotel Captain Cook and others. And The Lakefront Anchorage, in Anchorage’s Spenard neighborhood, is another option for meeting venues. At The Lakefront’s backdoor is Lake Hood, the busiest float plane base in the country, and the hotel’s deck makes a stunning setting for aftermeeting relaxation.
TOP THREE(ISH) MUSTSEES IN ANCHORAGE
WHY MEET ANCHORAGEIN
“Alaska is already on everyone’s wish list. The Anchorage meeting is often the one that breaks attendance records for a group. It’s a destination people want to visit already, and many spend extra time before or after the meeting or bring family,” says Dodds.
TOP GROUPTHREE(ISH)ACTIVITIES IN ANCHORAGE
I’ve never been very useful when it comes to numbers. I do know that Alaska is roughly the area of 19 other states at 268,597 square miles— much of which is still wild and uninhabited. I’m aware that it is our 49th state, joining the union in January of 1959 (and narrowly coming ahead of Hawaii, our 50th state, which joined the union in August of the same year). And I also know that there are a multitude of reasons that planners would want to hold their destination meeting or event there. But for the sake of space, we are only giving you five reasons to meet in the Last Frontier: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Ketchikan and Sitka. I’m certain you can add more to the equation.
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ANCHORAGE IN SUMMARY
The Anchorage Museum is the largest in the state and is home to hundreds of indig enous Alaska artifacts on loan from the Smithsonian Institute. Also make sure to spend time exploring one of the 60 glaciers within 50 miles of Anchorage. This can easily be done inside Chugach State Park, the third-largest state park in the nation at nearly half a million acres. It offers every thing from trails for hiking and biking, to lakes for kayaking, and glaciers for trekking. It marks its 50th anniversary in 2020. And take some time to look for wildlife such as moose, eagles and more along the 11-mile Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. The trail offers views of Cook Inlet and Mount Susitna, known as Sleeping Lady to locals.
“Anchorage has all the best of what draws people to Alaska: mountains, glaciers, park lands, wildlife. Plus, those alluring things are paired with modern meeting facilities, surprising city comforts and a great dining scene,” says Julie Dodds, Visit Anchorage’s vice president of meeting sales. “Anchorage has the flight connections, convention centers, hotels and restaurants that make meeting planning simple for organizers. The easy access to city trails, parks and outdoor adventures is what really tips the scales and convinc es meeting planners to come here.”
The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a popular spot for visitors who want to learn about Alaska Native cultures. Guests can enjoy live song and dance performances, as well as artist demonstrations. It is also often used as a location for after-parties and wed dings. The center’s campus has six life-sized traditional Native dwellings in a wooded area circling Lake Tiulana. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is about an hour’s drive south of Anchorage along the scenic Turnagain Arm. There, you can get up close views of bears, moose, musk oxen, reindeer, wolves and other Alaska spe cies. Groups can take a behind-the-scenes tour for the opportunity to feed animals, such as porcupines or moose. Or hike Flattop—widely regarded as the most climbed mountain in Alaska. It’s the quintessential Anchorage day hike and offers views of the city below and on a clear day the tallest peaks in North America.
TOP THREE(ISH) VENUES IN ANCHORAGE
NW.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 31 ANCHORAGE Hilton Anchorage Alaska Center for the Performing Arts King crab Glacier trekking Explorer Lake kayaking
32 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 FAIRBANKS Top Three(ish) Group Activities in Fairbanks “Northern lights viewing definitely tops this list during the aurora season, between August 21 and April 21,” says Helen Renfrew, director of meetings and conventions for Explore Fairbanks. “Other activities depend on the season: fishing, hiking, gold panning and riverboat tours in the summer season; dog mushing, ice sculpture viewing and soaking in the hot springs during the winter season.” Chena Hot Springs
Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center
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TOP THREE(ISH) MUST-SEES IN FAIRBANKS
“Fairbanks offers all of the venues and amenities expected in an urban location just steps away from the wilderness. Summer brings the midnight sun—it doesn’t get dark for 70 straight days! Winter offers the northern lights—Fairbanks is known as one of the best locations in the world to view this fascinating phenomenon which is on many attendees’ bucket lists,” says Renfrew.
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Riverboat Discovery
“There are many venue options in Fairbanks, so it’s impossible to narrow a list down to three. What I can tell you is that we’ve got places in town and ones surrounded by wilderness. There are large banquet and trade show spaces, as well as small, intimate retreat spaces. We have venues with and without accommodations on-site. The three largest, traditional venues (hotels with meeting rooms) are Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center, Wedgewood Resort and Pike’s Waterfront Lodge,” says Renfrew.
The 400-room Westmark has 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The Wedgewood has 9,300 square feet of event space, as well as the 25,000-square-foot Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. And Pike’s Waterfront Lodge has 208 rooms and more than 7,300 square feet of meeting space.
TOP THREE(ISH) VENUES IN FAIRBANKS
At the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, guests can learn about the indigenous peoples of interior Alaska, as well as view exhibits that showcase what it’s like to live in Fairbanks during the fall, winter, spring and summer. Or use Fairbanks as basecamp for excursions to Denali National Park or to view the arctic tundra north of the Arctic “FairbanksCircle.offers too many other sights to see—I can’t list just three! The creativity and marvels of our visitor attractions and activities are outshone only by the wilderness and wildlife that surround us,” says Renfrew.
FAIRBANKS IN SUMMARY
WHY MEET FAIRBANKS?IN
“We love introducing planners to all there is to see and do in Fairbanks! Fairbanks is the farthest-north city in the United States that is served by road, rail and an international airport,” says Helen Renfrew, director of meetings and conventions for Explore Fairbanks. “At Explore Fairbanks, we want to make it as easy as possible for you to bring a meeting here. The meetings and con ventions staff has more than 35 years of combined experience with hotels and conferences. We are your experts on the ground and would welcome the opportunity to show you why you should bring your meeting to Fairbanks.”
JUNEAU IN SUMMARY “Alaska is on everyone’s bucket list so hosting a meeting in Juneau adds an incredible Alaskan experience to your event,” says Logan. “Being a small city in a large wilderness allows meeting attendees an Alaskan experience in less time. The adventures are in Juneau’s backyard!”
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WHY MEET IN JUNEAU
A glacier, by land, by air or by water. A whale, by big boat, small boat, long trip or short. Or a vista, by trail, tram or air. “You could even do all in one afternoon if you plan right,” says Logan.
TOP THREE(ISH) GROUP ACTIVITIES IN JUNEAU In the winter, Eaglecrest Ski Area is perfect for those wanting to down hill or cross-country ski, snowboard or simply take in the breathtak ing scenery. An added bonus is Eaglecrest has smaller crowds and better deals than most other winter destinations. In the summer, whale watching is a must as many companies can accommodate large groups. Seeing orcas is a treat for all, and Juneau is one of the few places on earth one can witness humpback whales bubble net feeding. Any time of year, visiting the Mendenhall Glacier is a fabulous out ing for groups and meeting attendees. Because it is just 15 minutes from downtown, the glacier is the most accessible in the state and offers wildlife viewing, a waterfall to walk to and access to several trails. And exploring downtown Juneau is an activity in itself. Visitors can enjoy culinary tours that highlight award-winning chefs and craft beverage producers, city and state museums, a Native Alaskan heritage center, an aerial tramway, an escape room and more.
Moore DowntownChartersJuneau
TOP THREE(ISH) VENUES IN JUNEAU With 17,000 square feet of meeting space, Centennial Hall Convention Center is a favorite for larger groups looking for options. The Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall is newly renovated and has 6,000 square feet of space and can host more than 1,100 people. The Baranof Hotel by Best Western is ideal for smaller groups wanting the ease of lodging and gathering in the same venue. It offers 5,000 square feet of meeting and event space and 215 rooms. All are conveniently located in down town Juneau with access to an amazing year-round dining scene and local artists and shopping.
“Why not meet in the morning and go whale watch ing in the afternoon? Meetings in Juneau mean Alaskan adventures are just minutes away,” says Vicki Logan, Travel Juneau’s convention sales manager.
TOP THREE(ISH) THINGS TO SEE IN JUNEAU
WHY MEET KETCHIKANIN
TOP THREE(ISH) VENUES IN KETCHIKAN
“I enjoy the creative aspect. Ketchikan has so much to offer, and we pro vide each and every group we work with, with an individualized approach. I enjoy digging deeper into the goals and interests a group has and then shar ing resources for the perfect lunch speaker, field trip or social activity,” adds Patti Mackey, president and CEO of the CVB.
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The multipurpose Ted Ferry Civic Center has a 4,500-square-foot ballroom with a 1,500-square-foot stage. Smaller meeting rooms are created via sound-insulated partitions. The 80-room and 27-suite Landing Hotel includes the 5,000-square-foot Sunny Point Conference Center. And the 69-room Cape Fox Lodge can accommodate up to 200 guests for events.
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“Everyone is always surprised by the natural beauty of the area, and I always enjoy meeting the delegates who come to Ketchikan. When it comes to assisting planners, it’s always a pleasure to find something they didn’t know they wanted or needed and having it turn out to be the highlight of their visit. On a more practical note, I’m always close by: Missing the cord you need for your laptop? We are minutes away,” says Deb Anderson, meetings, events and groups manager at Ketchikan Visitors Bureau.
Hiking Sheep Creek
The rain forest surrounds Ketchikan and can be accessed easily via trails and rec reation areas. It is the largest temperate rainforest in the U.S. Planners should also make sure to get their delegates out on the water with a group cruise, mini fishing derby or kayaking expedition. And be sure to explore Alaska’s Inside Passage, which runs through the 2,000-island Alexander Archipelago.
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KETCHIKAN IN SUMMARY
“Alaska is so close! Just 90 minutes by air from SeaTac means it’s easier and quicker to reach us than many top Northwest des tinations (think Seattle to Vancouver B.C., or Portland). Small towns create an oppor tunity for camaraderie, and everything is easily accessible. And then there is the seafood,” says Mackey.
“Groups coming in the summer can take advantage of all there is to see and do in and around the community. There are dozens of tour and activity options that work perfectly for groups, from zip lining to snorkeling. If cultural pursuits are more in line with a group’s interests, Ketchikan is home to three Alaskan Native tribal groups. Dance performances, storytelling, visiting one of our totem parks and speak ing to an artist or seeing some of the oldest totem poles known to exist are all activities groups can program into their time here. Fall, winter and spring provide more inti mate experiences and plenty of options for groups to explore,” says Mackey. She recommends enjoying the daily com petitions at the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show, taking a marine cruise of the harbors and Misty Fjords National Monument, and paying a visit to George Inlet Cannery, the site of a 1940s cannery situated in a beauti ful cove. The cannery is full of local flavor and is an option for hosting receptions.
Cape Fox Lodge George Inlet Cannery
Sitka National Historical Park and Totem Park
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SITKA
TOP THREE(ISH) MUSTSEES IN KETCHIKAN
The oceanfront Harrigan Centennial Hall offers 32,000 square feet of meeting and event space and is located downtown near accommo dations, restaurants and shopping. The Sitka Fine Arts Camp on Historic Sheldon Jackson College Campus can accommodate groups of up to 300 and includes classrooms and the Odess Theater. Larger groups of up to 600 can take advantage of the space at the camp’s Sitka Performing Arts Center. And the 105-room Westmark Sitka Hotel is within walking dis tance of some of the city’s most popular attrac tions. It offers five meeting rooms that total 2,759 square feet. “The perfect retreat-style environment, Sitka has ample accommodation options and is eas ily accessible from Seattle and Anchorage. Sitka is particularly suited to small executive events, team retreats, mid-sized group trainings and multiday meetings,” says Booyse.
“Sitka is a community that welcomes visitors for a genuine small-town Alaska experience. Our locally owned downtown is walkable from all conference venues and major hotel properties. And we have a vibrant culinary scene where chefs use the local bounty of the sea to create unforgettable food experiences,” says Laurie Booyse, director of Visit Sitka.
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TOP THREE(ISH) GROUP ACTIVITIES
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TOP THREE(ISH) VENUES IN SITKA
Great saltwater or freshwater fishing from a charter boat or kayak can be had just minutes from downtown Sitka. Be sure to book time before or after your meetings to spend a few days in a world-class remote fishing lodge, such as Talon Lodge or Dove Island Lodge. By boat is also a fantastic way to view wildlife. “Enjoy the scenic and wildlife wonders of Sitka Sound by boat, kayak or ocean raft. You will have the opportunity to view whales, sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, eagles and more,” says Booyse. Join a pre-scheduled tour or charter a boat especially for your guests. Or your group can attend one of many cultur al and historical activities in the area, including Sitka National Historical Park and Totem Park. The park’s museum focuses on Tlingit history, featuring an extensive collection of Southeast Alaskan totem poles. Your group can meet carv ers and other artists and walk trails through an old-growth forest to visit the site of the 1804 Battle of Sitka, fought between the Tlingit and Russian forces. Other options include exploring Sheldon Jackson Museum, which has the state’s largest collection of Alaska Native artifacts. It is housed in Alaska’s first concrete building, which was erected in 1897. And the Naa Kahidi Native Dance Show—performed in Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Community House—lets your group experience the songs of tradition handed down by generations.
ConnectedGet ANCHORAGE anchorage.net FAIRBANKS explorefairbanks.com JUNEAU
WHY MEET IN SITKA
The prominent onion-shaped domes of St. Michael’s Orthodox Cathedral, a National Historic Landmark, have graced the Sitka skyline for nearly two centuries. Your group can venture inside the Russian Orthodox church to see a remarkable col lection of religious art, with pieces believed to date back to the 17th century. Sitka National Historical Park is a must-see for nature lovers, as is Fortress of the Bear, a bear rescue center where mag nificent bears roam in a naturalized setting. The three-quarter acre habitat houses brown and black bears. Experienced naturalists share their love and knowledge of this often feared, yet most revered creature of the forest. SITKA IN SUMMARY “Sitka is a unique venue for gatherings of up to 400 attendees, with modern meeting spaces and amenities located in an outstanding natural, low-distraction setting. The Visit Sitka team is ready to help you throughout the planning pro cess from information gathering to RFP process, pre-meeting logistics and on-the-ground support during your event. Ask us. We are happy to help,” says Booyse. traveljuneau.com visit-ketchikan.com
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TOP THREE(ISH) MUST-SEES IN SITKA
In its eighth installment, CWT Meetings & Events’ 2020 Future Trends Report identifies key developments in the industry in 2020, including: ATTENDEES
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HOTEL NEWS 42 PEOPLE NEWS 44 SNAPSHOTS 46 PEOPLE PROFILE 48 Industry Update
There continues to be a focus on the impact of the millennial genera tion (aka Generation Y, those born between 1980 and 1995). The influ ence of this generation will continue to strengthen the industry as they are expected to form the largest group of business travelers across the world from 2024 onward. Centennials (aka Generation Z , those born from 1996 onward) are starting to enter the workforce. According to Mediakix Research, while their influence, due to their age, is so far limited, this will rapidly change over the next decade as their population reaches 2.56 billion globally by 2020. THE NUMBERS AVERAGE LEAD TIME 59 days PERCENTAGE OF SPEND ON FOOD & BEVERAGE 42% AVERAGE MEETING DURATION 3 days USE OF REGISTRATIONATTENDEEWEBSITES 61% COST PER ATTENDEE PER DAY 2019: $234 2020: $253 (+8% year-over-year) AVERAGE GROUP SIZE 73Digitalization: Mobile devices are adding new functionality with apps to create a higher degree of personalization for attendees. Shifting demographics: Millennials are poised to be the largest group of business travelers from 2024 and onward. Generation Z is right on their heels and can claim to have never known a world without the internet, smartphones and apps. This younger group is all about experience, authenticity and participation. Authenticity: People are craving experiences that feel authentic, where travelers can immerse themselves in a destination like locals. Growing attraction of off-the-beaten track destinations. Socially and environmentally responsible incentives also rank high for 2020, fueled by the next generation that views climate change as an increasingly pressing issue.
“The need for live events is becoming more relevant than ever before,” says Kurt Ekert, president and CEO of CWT, with up to 30 percent of marketing budgets expected to be spent on live events in 2020. “Face-to-face meetings are critical to establishing connections between brands and their customers, and employees and their companies, especially during times of uncertainty. Knowing how to manage risks globally while putting together an authentic and measurable experience for all participants will be key for success in this space in the coming year and beyond.”
OUTLOOK: GOOD CWT Meetings & Events’ 2020 Future Trends Report projects growth in the industry. RESEARCH COURTESY OF CWT
Top 1.Cities10 NEW YORK, NY 2. SAN FRANCISCO, CA 3. CHICAGO, IL 4. ATLANTA, GA 5. TORONTO, CANADA 6. SAN DIEGO, CA 7. SEATTLE, WA 8. ORLANDO, FL 9. DALLAS/FORT WORTH, TX 10. LAS VEGAS, NV
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Demand for meetings and events in North America is continuing to increase, but the pace of growth has fallen. Despite these headwinds, the U.S. economy continues to be strong with event sizes rising, including many companies in the tech sector that have moved to consolidate their smaller meetings into larger events. “More than ever, political events have a direct impact on compa nies’ quarterly and annual out looks. Some industry segments are pulling back, such as agriculture because of the trade situation, and are being a bit more cautious,” says Tony Wagner, vice president, Americas & South Pacific Regions of CWT Meetings & Events.
Destinations on the rise are locations offering better value rates than firsttier cities. They are also becoming more attractive due to an increase in facilities including new hotels and venues. Read the full report at cwt-meetings-events.com/futuretrends.
The global meetings and events indus try is estimated at $840 billion and growing. “The overall growth trajectory in the meetings and events industry is rising at a steady 8 percent rate, which is encouraging,” says Derek Sharp, senior vice president and managing director, CWT Meetings & Events.
NORTH AMERICA
CWT identified 20 microtrends that are set to shape the year ahead when planning an event with a creative twist. Here are 5: Dating apps networking:for Tinder-style apps will help event attendees break the ice. Diversity: Greater diversity of presenters can bring an inspiring new slant to content and connect with the full range of attendees. Venues that tell a story: Unusual venues that reflect the aims of the event are booming— think spectacular views, historic spaces, or even an underwater event. First is best in seating: Early arrivals can grab the plush, expansive armchairs close to the speakers, while space at the back is for highboy chairs and stools.
cuisine:Instagrammable Food must be sharedInstagram-worthy—inrealtimetoanaudienceofhundredsoreventhousandsatonce—topassmusterin2020.
CREATIVE EVENTS
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REGIONAL NEWS
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“FALL”ING FOR THE NORTHWEST
Art + Hospitality Motif Seattle has appointed Todd McKinney its Motif Visiting Artist for 2019/2020. Launched in 2014, Motif Seattle’s Visiting Artist Program is a biannual collaboration. The artist’s motif is showcased in the hotel’s stationery, ame nities, key cards, and highlighted on the hotel’s website and social media through out the year. The hotel selected McKinney from dozens of Seattle-based artists for his design submission and inspiring story, which conveyed a positive message. McKinney is a California native who ventured to Seattle to pursue his art career. In his undergraduate years, he was diagnosed with a noncancerous brain tumor called Pseudotumor Cerebri, which caused his hands to tremble along with vision and memory loss, taking a toll on his artwork. Instead of giving up on his passion, he found a way to rework his technique and created his signature “drip method” of painting in 2010. For more information, follow @motifseattle on Instagram and Facebook. motifseattle.com
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Three of the most Instagrammable water falls in the world are right here in the Northwest. Showerstoyou.co.uk identified those national wonders that have been Instagrammed the most (and therefore, most worth visiting). Multnomah Falls in Oregon came in at No. 3, Snoqualmie Falls in Washington came in at number 11, and Shoshone Falls in Idaho came in at No. 17.
Hello, Gorgeous Vancouver, British Columbia, was named the “Friendliest City in the World 2019” by the audience of global travel media site, Big 7 Travel. It was also named the fifth most beautiful city in the world by Flight Network.
Portland’s hospitality scene is welcoming quite a few newcomers, including: KEX Hotel (OPENING 2019) KEX hotel in Reykjavík, Iceland, describes itself as a “high-end social hotel,” and the KEX team has chosen Portland’s Central Eastside neighborhood for its U.S. location. The property, which boasts an on-site restaurant with Michelin-recognized chef Ólafur Ágústsson at the helm, also features an indoor bar and rooftop patio bar. kexhotels.com
Hyatt Centric (JANUARY 2020) Located in the heart of downtown Portland, the 220-room Hyatt Centric features a modern Spanish restaurant and a full bar. The hotel also has four meeting spaces, totaling 2,800 square feet. Its largest meeting space is 1,368 square feet. hyatt.com Hotel Chamberlain (FEBRUARY 2020) Located in the city’s Central Eastside neighborhood, the 57-room Hotel Chamberlain was originally built as a hotel in 1897. In the 1970s, the upper floors were shuttered, while the ground level operated as a furniture store. It’s now been restored to its former glory. KEX Hotel Hyatt Centric Hyatt RegencyPortland
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Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center (JANUARY 2020) Located across the street from the Oregon Convention Center, this 500-room hotel has more than 38,000 square feet of flexible event space, striking city views and a full-service restaurant. hyatt.com
Kimpton Alexis Hotel in downtown Seattle just completed its renovation of all of its 121 guest rooms, using the natural beauty of its surroundings as its muse. Tapping into the hotel’s location near Seattle’s waterfront, nau tical elements are incorporated into the over arching theme of the redesign with a cool palette of grays and blues complemented by wave-like tiles to illustrate moving water. The hotel offers 4,000 square feet of meeting and event space and can accommodate up to 180 guests. alexishotel.com
New Look
PORTLAND HOTEL OPENINGS
MCDONOUGHCHRISPORTLAND;DOWNTOWNCENTRICHYATTHILKEN;SEANJOLIET;LAURIEPHOTOS: MARKETINGVINECRIMSONCELLARS;SIGILLOPHOTOGRAPHY;TALBOTSHAWN(OPPOSITE)
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Kicking Horse Homes GOLDEN A selection of six on-mountain townhomes. Palliser Lodge GOLDEN A 40-suite resort steps away from Kicking Horse Mountain Resort village.
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NW.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 43 Under ManagementNew
The Beach Club Resort PARKSVILLE, VANCOUVER ISLAND A 149-suite luxury property on Vancouver Island’s east coast.
The Royal Kelowna KELOWNA A 70-key all-suite downtown hotel that backs directly on to Okanagan Lake.
The
The independent hotel investment and manage ment firm Aimbridge Hospitality has acquired Canadian condo-hotel management company Bellstar Hotels & Resorts, Ltd. Founded in 2003, Bellstar Hotels & Resorts, Ltd., manages luxury destination resorts across western Canada. transaction includes five in British Columbia, including: Glacier Mountaineer Lodge GOLDEN A ski-in/ski-out lodge with 106 guest rooms and suites.
NEW TO LAKE CHELAN Washington’s Lake Chelan Valley has welcomed two new wineries. Set in the rolling hills of Manson, Tipsy Canyon Winery (tipsycanyon. com) opened to the public this summer. The family-owned and -operated winery celebrates locally sourced grapes and Bordeaux-style blends. In Chelan, Snoqualmie-based Sigillo Cellars (sigillocellars.com) opened a new tasting room in the historic Lakeside School building. The family-owned and -operated winery cele brates traditional Bordeaux and Rhone varietals. Sigillo Cellars Tipsy Canyon Winery Beach Club Resort Horse Homes WINERIES »
Kicking
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Shane Nicolopoulos has been appointed general manager of Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center. Nicolopoulos has grown his 20-year hospitality career with Hyatt, having held leadership positions with prop erties across the Hyatt Centric, Hyatt Regency and Andaz brands. Hyatt has named Justin Evans area director of sales and market ing in Portland, Oregon. Most recently, Evans served as director of sales and marketing at Hyatt Regency Columbus. Scott Lane has been named gen eral manager of Hyatt Centric Downtown Portland. Prior to this role, Lane held positions as the area director of sales in Denver and San Antonio, director of sales and mar keting at Grand Hyatt San Antonio, and director of sales and marketing at Hyatt Regency McCormick Place.Benchmark has named Sheri McElravy director of human resources for Skamania Lodge. McElravy was previously interim director of talent acquisition for Dameron Hospital of Stockton, California.
REGIONAL NEWS
Renovation News
New Brand for Visit Bellevue Visit Bellevue has launched a new brand identity that depicts the allure of aspiration through creativity, inno vation, style and nature. The new logo and brand personality are compo nents of Bellevue’s strategy to grow its visitor economy to $2 billion by the end of 2020. The new brand was developed by Cubic Creative Agency based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. visitbellevuewa.com
44 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 PEOPLE NEWS » Table 47, a locally owned farmfresh restaurant and caterer in Gig Harbor, has hired executive chef Kyle Campisi. Most recently, Campisi was executive chef of pri vate dining at X-Group Restaurants in Tacoma, Washington.VisitSeattle has welcomed Parvaneh “Parv” Miller as direc tor, international tourism. Miller most recently served as the director of sales and marketing at Loews Hotel 1000 in Seattle, and director of sales, events and marketing at Andaz Wall Street.
Expansion News
list of new entertainment facilities is Rivers Run Event Center. The event center’s 8,800-square-foot space can be divided into three sections. angelofthewinds.com
Tourism Whistler has announced plans for a $3.5 million renovation to the Whistler Conference Centre. The renovation will include design and technical upgrades, including lighting, acoustical treatments, floor and wall coverings, furnishings, and artwork. The Whistler Conference Centre will remain closed during the renovation and is expected to be completed by mid-March 2020. The Whistler Conference Centre offers more than 40,000 square feet of versatile meeting space. whistler.com
The $60 million-plus project included an expanded gaming floor with a new players club, keno lounge, gift shop, and an upgraded high-limit room, as well as new food and bever age options: Whiskey Prime Steakhouse, Jade Fusion Asian Cuisine, Riverside Buffet, and Gateway and Gravity bars. The expansion also introduces additional entertainment for guests: Strikerz Bowling and All Things Sports. Strikerz Bowling is a 16-lane bowling complex with traditional or HyperBowling games. HyperBowling allows guests to raise the bumpers for unique challeng es. All Things Sports offers virtual sports simulators that utilize the same industry-leading technology used by the world’s best players and feature both golf and multisport packages. For golf, guests have the opportunity to tee off and play a round at premier courses, including Pebble Beach Golf Links, Torrey Pines Golf Course, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, Troon North Golf Club, and more. The multisport package offers challenges in a variety of sports, from popular pastimes like baseball and football to niche games like bocce, lacrosse, and even zombieRoundingdodgeball.outthe
Angel of The Winds Casino Resort in Arlington, Washington, has unveiled its new expansion.
46 NWM+E | WINTER 2020 SUBMIT YOUR EVENT PHOTOS To have your meeting or event photos featured here, contact the editor at teresa.kenney@tigeroak.com. 8976 31 5 The Buzz about the HIVE On Sept. 26, 2019, planners gathered at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue, Washington, for the full-day conference HIVE. The day of education and col laboration included sessions, such as “Rock Your Brand Story,” “Cultivating Creativity,” “From Bore to ROAR,” “Turning Convention Centers Inside Out,” and “Vice Is Nice, But Is It Legal?” 1. Tom Norwalk, Visit Seattle. 2. Melanie Cook, MGM Resorts International. 3. Becky Williams, CMP, Events by Becky. 4. Julie DeWeese, Oregon Convention Center and Lisa Chan, Oregon Convention Center. 5. Holly Reichenbach, Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites Issaquah; Jene Iceberg, Spokane Convention Center; Jana Heinrichs, CORT Party Rental; Darcy Gabriele, eventcore; and Karli Zimmerman, CORT Events. 6. Mary Fleming, CMP; Ranjani Verraraghavan, Archer Hotel Redmond; and Chinela Bertrand, Visit Seattle. 7. Holly Reichenbach, Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites Issaquah; Henrik Paul, FERN Expo; Andrea Driessen, No More Boring Meetings; and Travis Gass, Argosy Cruises. 8. Gazala Uradnik, GFS Events, and Mary Ellen Reihsen, Weddings & Events Law, LLC. 9. Time out to refuel and network. —Photos by Mike Nakamura 24 SNAPSHOTS HIVE EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE
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Bronson Harbottle puts the care in customer service. BY TERESA KENNEY F or the past three years, Bronson Harbottle has worked at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue as a bellman. Harbottle moved to Bellevue in 2015, and he and his wife recently welcomed their newborn son to their family. One of the things he loves about working in the industry is being able to meet many different people from many different walks of life—you never know who you’re going to meet. Take, for example, one cold and rainy day as he was leaving work. Harbottle spotted a woman who looked lost. Rather than ignore his instincts, he approached her and asked if she was OK. “She seemed a little confused, so I just asked her where she was headed and if she needed any help,” recounts Harbottle. The woman let him know that she was trying to get home but didn’t know where that was. After bringing her back into the hotel lobby and making her comfort able, Harbottle checked her iden tification and found that she had a Bellevue address. Unbeknownst to him, at the same time, the family of the woman, who had dementia, was frantically searching for her. Harbottle put the woman in a cab and gave the driver her address, as well as a piece of paper with his information on it just in case she became lost again. Later that same day, the woman’s daughter-in-law called him and thanked him for helping her mother-in-law. The next day, Harbottle was called into the general manager’s office. He found out that the woman he helped was actually the mother of the hotel’s owner. Kindness matters. And Harbottle is a shining example of the lives touched through the hospitality business in both big and small ways. Get Connected BELLEVUE | hyatt.com | 425.462.1234
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