Southeast Meetings + Events Fall 2023/Winter 2024

TAKE TIME TO UNWIND Explore the top spa resorts in the Southeast

MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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FALL

THE BIG PEACH Discover what makes Atlanta so sweet

2023

WINTER

HOMEGROWN HOSPITALITY Meg Baird shares love for New Orleans

2024

Beyond BREWERIES &

Diverse venues from Atlanta to Orlando

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With all the freedom to move beyond the surface of your meeting destination. Deeply connect to signature experiences that leave lasting impressions.

Fully embrace the feeling of coming together in a place rich with intelligence, creativity and expertise.

Jump into Raleigh, N.C.

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visitRaleigh.com/meetings

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UNITE!AND!UNWIND With 16 unique beach neighborhoods along 26 miles of sugar-white sand and turquoise water, South Walton is the ultimate event destination. Luxurious amenities meet small-town charm for getaways that feel like coming home, no ma!er where you’re from. With convenient airport access and easy driving from Atlanta, Birmingham, and New Orleans, you’ll spend less time en route and more time in good company.

ROOMS!WITH!A!VIEW From resor ts to boutique hotels, South Walton is home to unique architecture, breathtaking views and accommodations to suit any style.

Where southern hospitality meets modern luxury. Nestled amongst the 2, 400-acre Sandestin Golf and Beach Resor t, the 4-Diamond Hotel Effie offers 250 guest rooms, 50,000 square feet of meeting space, and an abundance of resort amenities.

HotelEffie.com/Meetings • !"##$%&&'-')*+

MIRAMAR BEACH • SEASCAPE • SANDESTIN • DUNE ALLEN • GULF PLACE • SANTA ROSA BEACH • BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH • GRAYTON BEACH • WATERCOLOR

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PLE A SURE D O IN G BUSINE S S South Walton meetings always feel more personal. Truly unique venues and accommodations blend effortlessly with incredible dining, nightlife, and natural beauty, making teambuilding a pleasure.

Discover all the amenities and start planning at MeetInSouthWalton.com.

SEASIDE • SEAGROVE • WATERSOUND • SEACREST • ALYS BEACH • ROSEMARY BEACH • INLET BEACH

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Contents

22 Feature //

Bending the Budget

FAL L 20 23 / WINTER 2 02 4

17

Feature //

Restore & Refresh

BY LIA PICARD

Help your attendees unwind between meetings at these world-class Southeastern resorts and spas

BY BETH BUEHLER

Where to splurge and make events shine, and when to pull back for good financial sense

In Every Issue //

6 Editor’s Note 8 Meeting Notes

Take your next meeting from drab to fab with the help of these products, places, and inspiring ideas

10 Destination

14 Meet + Eat

Breweries around the region serve up eclectic venues for events of all sizes

26 Industry Update

Discover the latest updates through our Meetings + Events infographic and Southeast news

Montage Palmetto Bluff hotel in Bluffton, South Carolina

World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, Georgia

10 TAKE TIME TO UNWIND Explore the top spa resorts in the Southeast

MEETINGSMAGS.COM

//

FALL

THE BIG PEACH Discover what makes Atlanta so sweet

2023

WINTER

HOMEGROWN HOSPITALITY Meg Baird shares love for New Orleans

2024

Beyond BREWERIES &

Diverse venues from Atlanta to Orlando

30 Snapshots

The Asian American Hotel Owners Association hosted its annual Gulf Regional Conference & Trade Show in New Orleans

32 People Profile

NOLA DMC’s Meg Baird shares the love of her hometown with everyone she meets

On the Cover An event speaker at Monday Night Brewing in Atlanta, Georgia PHOTO BY JONATHAN BAKER

PHOTOS (FROM ABOVE) Stacie Flinner, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau

Eventgoers will experience the height of Southern hospitality in Atlanta

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The premier event and meeting venue in Kentucky.

Just 30 minutes from Louisville, the Shelbyville Conference Center combines versatility, beauty, and modern amenities to provide a welcoming and accommodating venue for every event.

Flexible floorplans and state-of-the-art technology allow for groups ranging in size to intimate executive meetings to company-wide conferences to gather together in the premier event and meeting venue in Kentucky. Charming and historic Shelbyville is just steps away, offering dining, shopping, luxurious acommodations, and more for attendees to enjoy.

PHOTOS (FROM ABOVE) Stacie Flinner, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau

Visit shelbykyvenues.com to learn more.

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EDI TOR ’ S N OT EL E Jill Rutherford P EOPLE P ROFI

meetingsmags.com/southeast

Take a Break

» ACCORDING TO A SURVEY conducted

by Vivian Health—a marketplace for health care jobs—in 2023, the hospitality and leisure industry is ranked No. 4 among the top 10 most stressful industries in the U.S., following only medical and health services, financial services and accounting, and information technology. More than a quarter of respondents from the hospitality industry reported stress-related absences from work within the last 12 months.

FHEHealth—a health care institution based in Deerfield Beach, Florida—attribmeetingsmags.com/southeast uted stress within the industry to variability of income, lack of benefits, unusual hours, meetingsmags party culture, and demanding environments. Whether organizing a meeting in a hotel boardroom, coordinating a trade show in a massive convention center, or planning an elaborate banquet, event planners (and even their attendees, because these things can be overwhelming for anyone) can truly benefit from something vital: a break.

Mayo Clinic Health System says something as simple as a day off reduces feelings of burnout, improves morale and attitude, improves resiliency, reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness, helps prevent mental health crises, increases productivity, improves physical health, and more.

With that in mind, consider how time might be spent between meetings when organizing your gathering. Unwind at The Boca Raton’s luxurious Spa Palmera in Florida. Relax and enjoy a refreshing beverage at Cahaba Brewing Co. in Birmingham, Alabama. Treat your team to a night on the town with a trolley tour of holiday lights in St. Augustine, Florida.

In a work-driven culture like in the U.S., it can be easy to forget there’s nothing wrong with putting our mental and emotional health first. Take a break and reward yourself and your colleagues for a hard day’s work in an industry that isn’t always smooth sailing.

PRESIDENT TAMMY GALVIN

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS - NATIONAL SALES LAURIE BURGER 586-344-6637 | LBURGER@GREENSPRING.COM RYAN MILLER 214-789-7716 | RMILLER@GREENSPRING.COM

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ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ARTHUR MORRISSEY EVENT + OFFICE MANAGER RICK KRUEGER COMMUNICATIONS + EVENTS COORDINATOR JOSEPH SCHMIDT MARKETING + EVENTS COORDINATOR JORDYN TAYLOE

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS KATHIE GORECKI ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE AUSTIN SCHMELZLE AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR GERI WILSON AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER CINDY FISH

REPRINTS For high-quality reprints of 500 or more, call 612-371-5849 or email danderson@greenspring.com.

For address changes, ordering single copies, cancellations, or general questions about your subscription, please contact customer service at 866-660-6247.

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MADELINE FUERSTENBERG

HOUR MEDIA CEO STEFAN WANCZYK PRESIDENT JOHN BALARDO

Correction: On page 18 of the Spring/Summer 2023 issue of Southeast Meetings + Events, the article “Fresh on the Scene” mistakenly quotes the director of sales and marketing for the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot in New Orleans, Louisiana, as Kristen Crawford.

The correct spelling of her name is Kristin Crawford. Southeast Meetings + Events regrets this error. hotelfontenot.com

The pages between the covers of this magazine (except for any inserted material) are made from wood fiber that was procured from forests that are sustainably managed to remain healthy, productive, and biologically diverse.

Southeast Meetings + Events is published semiannually. © 2023 Greenspring Media. All rights reserved.

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

PHOTO Nathan Moll

Associate Editor mfuerstenberg@greenspring.com

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PHOTO Nathan Moll

Discover

iscover DMEETINGS IN MOBILE MEETINGS

IN MOBILE

In InMobile, Mobile,you youwill willdiscover discoveraacharming charmingcity cityboasting boastingone-of-a-kind one-of-a-kind experiences, surprising scenery, convenient walkability, experiences, surprising scenery, convenient walkability,and andaacity cityalways always ready to be your gracious host.

Our downtown is conveniently situated ready to be your gracious host.

Our downtown is conveniently situated In Mobile, you will discover a charming city boasting one-of-a-kind along Mobile and of world-class alongthe the MobileRiver River andfull full ofunique uniqueretailers, retailers,galleries, galleries, world-class experiences, surprising scenery, convenient walkability, and a city always attractions, and award winning chefs and restaurants. attractions, and award winning chefs and restaurants.

ready to be your gracious host. Our downtown is conveniently situated along the Mobile River and full of unique retailers, galleries, world-class attractions, and award winning chefs and restaurants.

6,000+ 6,000+ HOTEL ROOMS CITY WIDE

HOTEL ROOMS CITY WIDE

50+ 50+ DOWNTOWN RESTAURANTS

DOWNTOWN RESTAURANTS

6,000+ 1,200+ 1,200+

50+ sq.

300,000 ft.+ 300,000 sq. ft.+ WATERFRONT CONVENTION CENTER DOWNTOWN RESTAURANTS

1,200+

300,000 sq. ft.+

HOTEL ROOMS DOWNTOWN HOTEL ROOMS CITY WIDE HOTEL ROOMS DOWNTOWN

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WATERFRONT CONVENTION CENTER

WATERFRONT CONVENTION CENTER

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M EETI N G N OT E S Products, Places & Inspiring Ideas

Keeping It Green In LaGrange service roads, and nature trails will also be available to meeting-goers. Activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, disc golf, and kayaking will be available through the center.

The center will also be the new home for Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, an organization dedicated to the preservation of the Chattahoochee River and its tributaries through education, advocacy, and protection. Patrick Crews, the chair of Troup County’s board of commissioners, says the new event facility will be the first of its kind in the area. “We are extremely honored by the grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Callaway Foundation that made this project possible,” he says in a prepared statement. oakfuskee.com

MEET ON THE WATER » WOW YOUR MEETING-GOERS with stunning views

and luxurious accommodations at a Southeastern waterfront destination. MGM’s Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, situated along the Gulf Coast in Biloxi, Mississippi, has three ballrooms comprising 29,000 square feet that can be broken down into smaller spaces, the Oaks Ballroom, and five additional indoor and outdoor meeting spaces. The resort also offers in-house catering, an on-site business center, a spa and fitness center, a Topgolf Swing Suite, and more.

The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa by Bonvoy Marriott in Mobile, Alabama, offers 28,539 square feet of event space across 16 rooms. The hotel’s largest space has a maximum capacity of 1,000. Event services include audiovisual equipment rental, a hotel decorator, an in-house photographer, and more. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Mobile, the hotel is near several attractions—including the USS Alabama

Battleship Memorial Park and Mobile Civic Center—and offers views of the Mobile River, which empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

Away from the seaside and the hustle and bustle of coastal city life, Wyndham’s Cypress Bend Resort in Many, Louisiana, sits on the shore of Toledo Bend Lake. The property, which is surrounded by 475 acres of Louisiana forest, makes an idyllic backdrop for your event. The resort has 15,000 square feet of flexible meeting space across 10 venues. The ballroom, banquet facility, and meeting rooms of varying sizes can accommodate up to 350 eventgoers standing or 250 banquet-style. On-site amenities include audiovisual equipment, in-house catering, a fitness center, and more. beaurivage.mgmresorts.com marriott.com wyndhamhotels.com

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi

PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW LEFT) Adobe/George, Oakfuskee Conservation Center, Historic Tours of America, Waldorf Astoria Orlando

nvironmental stewardship is at the forefront of the future Oakfuskee Conservation Center’s mission as the development opens its doors before the end of the year. Located in LaGrange, Georgia, on a picturesque point of land with views of West Point Lake and Pyne Road Park’s sprawling forests, the multiuse, two-story facility will be ideal for corporate functions, celebrations, outdoor events, and more.

The 25,000-square-foot center is an hour south of Atlanta and can accommodate up to 400 eventgoers. The facility will feature a grand foyer with a fireplace, veranda, catering kitchen, an outdoor pavilion, and indoor and outdoor banquet areas. Offices, an outdoor amphitheater, a wildlife viewing deck, a new dock, new

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GUIDED TOURS FOR TEAM BONDING » ATTENDING A MEETING OR EVENT in a new city can feel both exciting and daunting for meeting-goers, so encourage attendees to explore and bond with a guided tour. Major cities across the Southeast are brimming with group tour options, from historical or culinary to haunted or artistic, that delight and educate.

In St. Augustine, Florida, attendees can explore the nation’s oldest city in style with Old Town Trolley Tours, a Historic Tours of America organization. With 16 trolleys allowed on the city streets at a time, groups both large and small can learn about St. Augustine’s history at the Old Jail or a variety of museums, seek a spooky thrill on Old Town Trolley’s Ghosts & Gravestones Tour, or simply enjoy a day of sightseeing, shopping, and dining stop-bystop. Through Jan. 28, eventgoers can partake in Old Town Trolley’s Night of Lights Tour, viewing displays of more than 3 million holiday lights spanning 20 blocks. Not sure what to choose? Old Town Trolley Tours will help plan trip itineraries from scratch as well.

Dave Chatterton, general manager of Old Town Trolley Tours, says planners can’t go wrong with any of the options available for their group. “All of them are great for groups,” he says. Kathy Carlson, group sales and charter manager for Old Town Trolley Tours, adds, “It’s a great way to get around town, and the history that our drivers give is just wonderful.”

For similar experiences elsewhere, consider Tour Orleans in New Orleans, Louisiana. Offering tours both on foot and in luxury tour buses, Tour Orleans takes group bookings of up to 27. Visit some of The Big Easy’s iconic cemeteries,

The Golf Pavilion at Waldorf Astoria Orlando

Old Town Trolley Tours in St. Augustine, Florida

treat your team to Southern delights on a culinary tour, and more. In Birmingham, Alabama, consider Red Clay Tours for smaller groups of up to 14. Learn about the city’s role in the Civil Rights Movement on the Fight for Rights Tour, explore popular city landmarks, or get a taste of what the city’s best breweries have to offer on the Birmingham Brewery Tour. redclaytourism.com |

tourorleans.com |

trolleytours.com/st-augustine

A HELPING HAND lorida hotels Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek introduced The Meetings Butler, a customized luxury experience in which a dedicated butler acts as a VIP coordinator, tending to any specific needs an event planner might have. The goal of this role is to make meeting planners’ lives easier and more efficient during busy times, as well as assist with any event-planning logistics.

Waldorf Astoria Orlando boasts 60,000 square feet of multifunctional meeting space, including the new 8,436-square-foot Central Park Ballroom, the 7,945-squarefoot Grand Ballroom, the 10,167-square-foot Promenade, 13 meeting rooms, and the 10,000-square-foot Signature Island. Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek features 240,000 square feet of meeting space, including three ballrooms, 34 meeting rooms, two boardrooms, and an outdoor space. Both hotels are official Walt Disney World Hotels and offer unique group activities that can be tailored to any gathering. hiltonbonnetcreek.com |

waldorfastoriaorlando.com

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DE ST I NAT ION Atlanta

An aerial view of Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta

Home Away From Home

BY MADELINE FUERSTENBERG

» CHARM TAKES ON a whole new meaning in Georgia’s state capital. From thousands of hotel rooms to Georgia World Congress Center, the world’s largest LEED-certified convention center, Atlanta’s hospitable nature and innovative spirit make for an ideal meeting destination year-round.

“Whether it is the Super Bowl, College Football Playoff National Championship, or a major convention with thousands of attendees, Atlanta has proven it can handle any size event,” says Kristin Delahunt, vice president of destination services at the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The city’s infrastructure makes it a natural location for hosting

major events with nearly 13,000 hotel rooms downtown and nearly 300 dining options within walking distance of the convention centers, stadium, and arena.”

A ONE-STOP SHOP If planners are searching for a true onestop shop for event hosting in the heart of the city, Atlanta’s 22-acre Centennial Olympic Park is the place to go. There, the massive Georgia World Congress Center boasts 1.5 million square feet of exhibit space for myriad event opportunities.

Seated in or near the park are MercedesBenz Stadium, home of the NFL Atlanta Falcons and MLS Atlanta United FC, featuring 167,500 square feet of event space;

the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame, boasting 50,000 square feet of event space; and State Farm Arena, home of the NBA Atlanta Hawks, which has 13 event spaces with capacities ranging from eight to 13,000 eventgoers.

Also nearby are the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola museum, SkyView Atlanta (the city’s 20-story Ferris wheel), and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The aquarium has 23,000 square feet of meeting space, with rooms boasting private windows looking into the Ocean Voyager and Cold Water Quest galleries. World of Coca-Cola has six event spaces, with a maximum capacity of 1,200. The National Center for Civil

PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE) Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (2), Hyatt Hotels Corp.

Atlanta’s Southern hospitality shines through its meeting and event offerings

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The shark exhibit at Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta; Below: Hyatt Centric Buckhead Atlanta

and Human Rights has six event spaces with capacities ranging from 30 to 500.

Conveniently situated on the outskirts of Centennial Olympic Park are several hotels. The 1,067-room Omni Atlanta at Centennial Park has 45 meeting rooms and 120,000 square feet of available meeting space. The 321-room Embassy Suites

by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park has 16,585 square feet of event space across 20 meeting rooms. Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown, a 242-room property, has 11,621 square feet of event space across 11 meeting rooms.

Of course, Centennial Olympic Park isn’t the only part of Atlanta with much to offer. “In Atlanta, we pride ourselves on a collaborative hospitality community dedicated to making every event a success,” Delahunt says. “We work in concert with our hotels, venues, restaurants, attractions, and ambassadors to create a seamless meeting experience. Additionally, our hospitality portfolio continues to grow as the city is gaining new hotel properties, expanding venues, and renovating existing facilities, creating an ever-evolving destination for visitors.”

The Atla nta Convention Center at AmericasMart, located on Atlanta’s iconic Peachtree Street , ca n accom modate groups of up to 3,000 and is connected to the 1,100-room Westin Peachtree Plaza, Atlanta, and the 206-room Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown, an IHG Hotel. Treat guests to a 360-degree view of the city in Westin’s The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View on the hotel’s 73rd floor.

Located in northern Atlanta is Truist Park, home of MLB’s Atlanta Braves.

The stadium features 17 rentable event spaces that can accommodate gatherings

from team building in the batting cages to massive trade shows. Also, in the northern half of the city, the 218-room Hyatt Centric Buckhead Atlanta offers meeting space and easy access to Lennox Square, an upscale shopping destination.

Zoo Atlanta, located in the Grant Park neighborhood of the city, has 14 event spaces and offers a full zoo buyout for larger events of up to 5,000 attendees.

For a sophisticated vibe, the Fernbank Museum has 10 event spaces available, with its largest room accommodating up to 600 eventgoers.

To find the perfect venue for your next event, Delahunt recommends working with Atlanta-based planners like Destination South Meetings & Events, Discover Destinations, E.S. Destinations, Juice Studios, PRA Events, Presenting Atlanta, and Vibe Destination Management LLC. BEYOND THE BOARDROOM With all Atlanta has to offer for meetings and events, it ’s worth noting the myriad activities available to your attendees across the city affectionally known as “ The Big Peach.” “Our hope is that

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DE ST I NAT ION Atlanta

attendees have an opportunity to explore our unique in-tow n neighborhoods,” Delahunt says. “One way to do so is by visiting Atlanta BeltLine, which is one of the largest sustainable redevelopment projects in the nation. The Eastside Trail [of Atlanta BeltLine] connects several of Atlanta’s neighborhoods like Midtown, Inman Park, and Old Fourth Ward. The 3-mile segment [of Atlanta BeltLine] is bustling with locals and peppered with unique art to discover while biking the path or taking a leisurely stroll on foot.”

Midtown, Atlanta’s arts and cultural district, is a quick drive up Peachtree Street. There, you’ll find attractions like Politan Row at Colony Square, a 20,000square-foot culinary destination housing 11 independent restaurant concepts.

In Midtown, eventgoers can stay at Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta, a 244-room hotel with 17,436 square feet of event space across 16 rooms. From there, head to the Buckhead neighborhood for fine shoppi n g , h i stor ica l d i splays, a nd a lively nightlife scene. Treat your event attendees to a meal at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, capable of hosting private events ranging from 20 to 200, or indulge in classic Southern cuisine at Wisteria Restaurant, which can host groups of up to 100. For a more laid-back evening, visit

Bold Monk Brewing Co., which has five event spaces with capacities ranging from 65 to 175.

EASY ACCESS With a sprawling layout of 134 square miles, it should come as no surprise that Atlanta has public transportation down to a science. “When it comes to accessibility, Atlanta is second to none,” Delahunt says. “Whether it’s by plane or by car, our city is one of the most accessible in the world, making it easy for attendees to get here quickly. Once you’re in Atlanta, navigating the city is a breeze w ith M A RTA [Metropolita n Atla nta R apid Tra n sit Aut hor it y], ou r rapid transit system. MARTA comes directly

to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport’s baggage claim and takes attendees to downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and beyond.” Interstates 20 and 85 intersect at the heart of Atlanta, allowing easy access in and out of the city.

And while Delahunt touts the city’s walkability as a top selling point for meeting and event planners, she also acknowledges that Atlanta’s true draw goes much deeper than that. “At the end of the day, what attendees talk about most is the helpful, hospitable attitude of the people who live and work here,” Delahunt explains.

“Our Southern hospitality remains our most unique and appreciated asset.” discoveratlanta.com

PHOTOS (FROM ABOVE) Don Riddle/Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau

Savannah Hall at Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta; Below: Peachtree Street during autumn in the Midtown neighborhood of Atlanta

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IS YOUR MARKETING CAMPAIGN GOING SOUR? we can help.

Adding digital tactics to your marketing will increase touch points and combining it with traditional media like print will increase your ROI.

CONTACT US TODAY! TAMMY GALVIN, Publisher tgalvin@greenspring.com • 612-371-5869

Our Accessibility Guide and more at raleighconvention.com Our Accessibility Guide and more at raleighconvention.com

EVENTS THAT

MAKE HISTORY FernbankMuseum.org/Rentals 767 Clifton Rd. NE · Atlanta, GA 30307 SpecialEvents@FernbankMuseum.org · 404.929.6390

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M EET + EAT Breweries

Attendees at a corporate event in Monday Night Brewing’s Garage in Atlanta, Georgia

Brewing Inspiration

From bespoke experiences to lush views, make your next event stand out at the Southeast’s top breweries

BY LAURA SCHOLZ

hen Angie and Jonathan Bryan opened Golden Isles Brewing Co. this fall in St. Petersburg, Florida, they wanted it to be a community hub and gathering space. Located in a former 1960s-era gas station, the space features an indoor-outdoor bar with rollup doors, plus lawn games and old-school arcade games like Ms. Pac-Man—touches that make breweries like theirs throughout the Southeast go-to destinations for corporate and nonprofit gatherings, both large and small.

Alex Crall, director of sales and marketing for The Porter Room at Holy City Brewing in Charleston, South Carolina, believes breweries can provide “an incredible level

of service and unique products that most event venues can’t offer, from a multitude of craft beer offerings to guided tastings and bespoke experiences.”

Breweries offer “not just unique decor that will set your event apart and make your guests excited to attend, but [also] a new way to do business that lowers the hassle event planners often face, with flexible spaces, good value on food and beverages, a suite of audiovisual and technology, and plenty of easy parking for guests,” says Christiana Craddock, event sales manager with Monday Night Brewing in Atlanta, Georgia.

David C. Baker, who has held the Mind Your Own Business conference for owners

KEEP IT BESPOKE L ocat ed i n At l a nt a’s h i s t or ic We s t End, Monday Night Brewing houses its barrel-aging and souring operations.

For gatherings of 500 or more, opt for the Chandelier Room, which features a private bar and deck, a catering prep kitchen, event staff, a suite of audiovisual services, and industrial-chic elements like vintage chandeliers and greenery walls. Want to go even bigger? Book the Courtyard for an indoor-outdoor space that accommodates up to 1,000 attendees for events of all sizes.

The 4,400-square-foot Porter Room meeting space at Holy City Brewing in North Charleston, South Carolina, offers planners a versatile, open f loor plan for seated events of up to 180 attendees or larger standing receptions of up to 450.

In addition to dramatic glass walls and a 1,600-square-foot patio with scenic marsh views, the venue features add-ons like customized beer labels for events— ideal for branded celebrations and product launches—plus a bourbon tasting bar for a guided tasting of rare spirits. The brewery also partners with the Sean Williams and Mary Martin Art Gallery to display artwork in the space, with proceeds from the sales benefiting nonprofit clients hosting events in the venue.

“We feel the venue is the perfect balance of a blank slate to set for meetings or conferences, but then transitions perfectly into formal dinners, cocktail hour-style receptions, or even casual oyster roasts/ picnics,” says Crall.

Jacob Baumann, Devil’s Foot Beverage Co.’s co-founder, says the fullservice taproom in Biltmore Village in

PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT) Jonathan Baker, Alex Crall, Devil’s Foot Beverage Co.

of small- and medium-size creative businesses at Monday Night Brewing’s Garage the last two years, agrees. “Our clients are leaders in the business of creativity, and we wanted to hold our event in a place that was interesting and inspiring, not some drab ballroom or conference center,” he explains.

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Drafts at Holy City Brewing in Charleston, South Carolina; Below: The taproom at Devil’s Foot Beverage Co. in Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina, was designed to “have a cozy, community-oriented feel.”

The 7,000 -squa re-foot space ha s a n indoor-outdoor capacity for over 300 eventgoers and hosts “everything from loca l nonprof it fundraisers and staff appreciation gatherings to corporate breakout sessions and holiday parties, as well as beverage-centric ticketed events,” he continues. Devil’s Foot also offers clients the option to create a private-label craft soda for their events.

PRIORITIZE VERSATILITY Can’t decide between a large open room, an intimate gathering place, or a lively open patio? Get all of the above at Deadwords Brew i n g i n Orla ndo, F lor ida .

Combined, the taproom, covered outdoor patio, cozy lounge, and semiprivate barrel room can accommodate 300 people to enjoy and celebrate with golden sours or modern takes on pilsner and irresistible India pale ales.

With original brick walls and exposed rafter ceilings, the 3,000-square-foot, customizable Barrel Room at Cahaba Brew ing Co. in the Continenta l Gin Complex in Birmingham, Alabama, is a n elega nt choice for seated mea l s ,

accommodating up to 120 people sitting or 300 standing. For daytime events, book the more casual taproom, with rustic reclaimed furniture and in-place projectors and televisions for minimal setup.

Both rooms feature the brand’s signature brews like the Steel Cut City Oatmeal Stout and the American Blonde Ale. cahababrewing.com cryingeagle.com deadwords.com devilsfootbrew.com holycitybrewing.com mondaynightbrewing.com staygoldenstpete.com

PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT) Jonathan Baker, Alex Crall, Devil’s Foot Beverage Co.

ENTERTAIN YOUR GUESTS Come for the craft brews, stay for live music ranging from local zydeco bands to up-and-coming singer-songwriters at Cr ying Eagle Brewing Co. in La ke Charles, Louisiana. Both of the brewery’s outdoor spaces—the 60-person-capacity beer garden deck and 50-person-capacity upper deck—include elevated stage views, a private bar, group brewery tours, and catering from the on-site cafe, which serves crowd-pleasing fare like wings, truffle fries, and hand-tossed pizzas.

With lawn games like cornhole and Connect4 and an indoor video game room,

Golden Isles Brewing Co. in the booming Magnolia Heights neighborhood of St. Petersburg, is ideal for a fun, laidback corporate or nonprofit gathering.

The retro space has a 3,000-square-foot interior with a large private events room that opens to a 4,000-square-foot patio.

In addition to local brews, Golden Isles offers prosecco and other wines, organic sodas, and food from rotating food trucks.

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REDEFINING

business casual With beautiful, white-sand beaches, a variety of venues and endless entertainment opportunities, the Alabama Gulf Coast brings new meaning to business casual. Book your next meeting or conference with us and let the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach sales team handle the rest.

GSOBmeetings.com . 888-421-8715 . #GSOBmeetings

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The grounds at Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, in Point Clear, Alabama

RESTORE

&

The Southeast’s best resorts and spas feature relaxation and luxury PHOTO Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa

BY LIA PICARD

T

raveling can be a stressful time for many. With the added pressure of professional obligations like meetings or conferences while traveling, that stress can multiply. And that added stress can have adverse effects on your attendees—both mentally and physically.

So, whether planning an event large or small, don’t forget

to keep the well-being of your meeting-goers in mind when booking accommodations. Luxury spas, fitness spaces, and relaxing team-building activities make for welcome additions to any corporate getaway. Luckily, the Southeast offers no shortage of meeting and event destinations perfect for unwinding after a hard day’s work.

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EXQUI S ITE EXQUIS EXPERIENCES EXPERIENCE S

Oftentimes, when you buy out The Swag, the best meeting place is actually in the main dining room. It’s not your typical meeting venue because it now feels like you’re having a gathering in somebody’s living room.”

–Will Jones, general manager, The Swag Jones, the hotel’s general manager. “It’s not your typical meeting venue because it now feels like you’re having a gathering in somebody’s living room.”

Outside of meetings, attendees can take advantage of the hotel’s newly opened spa, The Still, which offers a selection of services including mud wraps, foot treatments, facials, and hot stone massages. Guests can also relax by enjoying scenic hikes, swimming in The Lookout pool, taking a yoga class, unwinding by a nightly bonfire (cocktail in hand), reclining in a hammock

PHOTOS (FROM LEFT) The Swag, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts

When someone suggested to Robyn Davis, president of RCD Events Worldwide in Atlanta, Georgia, that she host a sales kickoff for 200 people at Chataeu Elan in Braselton, Georgia, she didn’t think the company would go for it. People were coming in from Europe and Canada, and, at first, it made sense to her to stay in the city. “Then, we kind of changed the story and talked about how, in a city hotel, they would lose attendees [as they] go to bars, restaurants, and [tour] the city area [on their own].”

It was suddenly clear Chateau Elan would serve as an ideal location “because we would have most of the resort, and there’s not that much around it in Braselton,” says Davis. “So, it really gave the impression of it being a retreat, it kept people on-property, and they saw each other at the outlets within the resort.”

The sprawling property has 50,000 square feet of meeting space, including 12 conference rooms and four ballrooms, as well as a luxurious 35,000-square-foot spa that features an indoor pool with resistance jets, a dry Finnish sauna, and a wet eucalyptus steam room. The key feature, however, is the property’s vineyard, which—along with the brand’s grapes acquired from vineyards in South Georgia and California’s Lake County and Clarksburg regions—crafts 30 varietals of wine at the resort. Not only does an on-site vineyard create a picturesque setting for a meeting, but its presence also plays a role throughout the events, too. “Wine is an underlying factor with Chateau Elan,” says Davis, even if the program itself isn’t centered on wine. chateauelan.com; rdcevents.com Gracing the shores of the Savannah River in Savannah, Georgia, The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa offers guests a classic Southern vibe with easy access to the city’s Historic District via ferry. The resort boasts 286,600 square feet of meeting space across 46 event rooms, with the largest-capacity space accommodating more than 10,000 people. After a long day of meeting or exploring, attendees can relax poolside, rest by a riverside fire, or de-stress at the Heavenly Spa by Westin. The Heavenly Spa by Westin features 21 treatment rooms and services ranging from seasonal body wraps, the Georgia Peach Sweet Tea Scrub, Matcha mud manicures and pedicures, organic facials, and others. marriott.com The Swag in Waynesville, North Carolina (about 40 minutes west of Asheville), is a boutique, all-inclusive property that sleeps 42 people in its cottages and inn— and that’s what makes it so great. Set on 250 acres along the border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the boutique resort has nontraditional meeting space.

“Oftentimes, when you buy out The Swag, the best meeting place is actually in the main dining room,” says Will

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PHOTOS (FROM LEFT) The Swag, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts

From left: Hiking at The Swag in Waynesville, North Carolina; Spa treatment room at Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans

while reading a book borrowed from the eclectic Chestnut Lodge Library, and much more. theswag.com Sometimes what makes a resort unique is something literally over the top. At the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans in Louisiana, which opened in the city’s former World Trade Center in 2021, Vue Orleans is just that. The 360-degree observation deck sits atop the building’s 33rd and 34th floors, offering sweeping city views from both indoors and outdoors. The space is available as a venue exclusively to hotel guests. The hotel can accomodate group sizes of up to 500 people and sits on the edge of the Mississippi River within walking distance of the French Quarter. Because of the hotel’s prime location in a city rich with culture, it’s easy for event planners to weave a taste of The Big Easy into their gatherings. “We bring the best of New Orleans to our clients, delivered with a Four Seasons lens,” says Stephan Miller, the hotel’s director of sales.

Whether it’s a coffee break with a beignet action station, taking in the sights, an exclusive off-property tour, or a French-style beauty treatment at the spa, meetings and events at Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans have a true sense of place, Miller says. fourseasons.com/neworleans

COAS COA STAL CALM Close proximity to a coastline intrinsically soothes, which bodes well for a gathering of co-workers and associates along the Southeast’s famous shores. In Bluffton, South Carolina, the Montage Palmetto Bluff enchants

with its Lowcountry locale. Palmetto Bluff, a 20,000acre resort community, sits on the May River and its salt marshes, and the community’s thoughtful design allows the people staying and living within it to take in the views from various trails, docks, and green spaces throughout. About 5,000 square feet of meeting space comprise tastefully appointed meeting and board rooms.

Event planners often weave in oyster roasts along the banks of the May River, dinner parties with waterway views, and s’mores by the fire pits. Wind down following a busy day of meetings at Spa Montage, where inspiration is drawn from nature to create a spa experience that incorporates elements of Palmetto Bluff ’s surrounding landscape into the available treatments, including herbal poultices composed of regional wildf lowers. montage.com/palmettobluff With one side facing the Atlantic Ocean and the other surrounded by forest, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in South Carolina has oceanfront views that are unmatched. In fact, attendees can even enjoy those views from the hotel’s Heavenly Spa by Westin, now offering ocean-view rooms and suites. The 8,000-squarefoot facility offers massages, facials, body treatments, nail care services, and more. The Westin boasts 38,832 square feet of meeting space across 22 event rooms, with its largest capacity being 1,600. marriott.com On Georgia’s St. Simons Island, The Cloister at Sea Island sits on 50 picturesque acres surrounded by riverways, marshes, and the Atlantic Ocean. The 100-year-old,

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PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE) The Breakers Palm Beach, The Boca Raton, opalcollection.com

400-room property offers 30,000 square feet of event space that accommodates up to 500 eventgoers. Su r rou nded by nat u re, attendees can relax post-meeting with an afternoon aboard the Sea Island Explorer, commune with the salt marsh dolphins and baby sea turtles, ride on horseback through the marshes, kayak at dawn, visit The Cloister Solarium, lay poolside, visit the fitness center, or Clockwise: The Palm Courtyard at The Breakers Palm Beach unwind at The Spa at Sea Island. in Palm Beach, Florida; A lazy river at The Boca Raton in Boca Raton, Florida; Browsing spa treatment products at The Spa at Sea Island, a Forbes The Resort at Longboat Key Club in Sarasota, Florida Five-Sta r spa , draws inspirations from the surrounding salt marshes and sea to offer treatments that are natural, restorative, and therapeutic. Swedish massage, detox facials, sea mineral body masks, volcanic pumice exfoliation, and Breath Deep Baths are only a few of the treatments offered. Also featured at The Spa are a Relaxation Garden Atrium, a hydrotherapy pool, the Meditation Labyrinth, a cedar dry sauna, and more. seaisland.com Nestled on the Gulf-facing side of the barrier islands of Sarasota, Florida, Opal Collection’s The Resort at Longboat Key Club is a beach-lover’s dream. The 229room resort features 12,000 square feet of meeting space boasting exceptional oceanfront views. With bustling marinas, rolling golf courses, and white sand beaches, the resort offers your eventgoers a dream getaway in between meetings. The Resort at Longboat Key Club’s islandinspired spa boasts 10 calming treatment rooms poised for soothing the senses and nourishing the mind, body, and soul. Recently added, the spa’s relaxation rooms now into the entire spa experience, from the moment you serve enhancing VitaJuwel crystalized water and Pamela step into the space and to linger well beyond your stay.”

Wasabi’s plant-based baked goods. Treatments available Additionally, each of the spa’s custom services comes include the popular Signature Bliss full body treatment and with a treatment plan to continue the benefits of the treatmassage, The Marine Anti-Aging treatment, lift and conment at home. “Part of Opal Spa’s culture is to educate tour facial treatments, Vibro Acoustic Tables, and more. guests on how to care for themselves once they leave,” the “Our goal is to engage all five senses in nature-inspired Opal Collection representative says. “The cornerstones are smells, sights, sounds, tastes, and textures to open the body regular exercise, proper nutrition, peace of mind, and care of to healing,” explains a representative from Opal Collection. the face and body.” opalcollection.com/longboat-key-club “Self-guided experiences are also being introduced, includAt the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collecing no-touch systems that use sound, vibration, or color tion, in Point Clear, Alabama, the hotel’s location on Mobile therapy. It’s all part of a larger initiative to bake wellness

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Bay allows attendees to connect in a way they might not get to farther inland. When attendees aren’t congregating in one of the 22 meeting rooms, meandering through the property’s butterfly gardens and leisure spots—including the on-site spa—proves to be conducive for networking.

“The Grand makes it easy to relax, unplug, and recharge your battery,” says Kevin Hellmich, director of sales and marketing. “We hear all the time from new corporations that meet at the Grand: ‘Our team bonded more at the Grand than we ever have.’”

Another prime spot to network at the Grand is Bucky’s Lounge, named in honor of a longtime hotel employee.

“There are nine fire pits by which you can hang out outside of Bucky’s, have a drink, watch the sunset, and get to know people,” adds Hellmich. grand1847.com

ORNATE INFLUENCES INFLUENCES For a different coastal flavor, head to The Boca Raton in Boca Raton, Florida, a city known for its Spanish-style architecture and beautiful beaches, situated between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. The historic resort comprises five buildings and offers 80,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The resort’s proximity to the Intracoastal Waterway and beach creates a laidback—yet elegant—atmosphere, and five pools (including a lazy river) let attendees kick back in their downtime.

Meeting pla nners m ight a lso work w ith the 50,000-square-foot Spa Palmera, named Florida’s Best Resort Spa in 2022 by the World Spa Awards, to schedule appointments for meeting-goers throughout the duration of the event. Spa treatments include hydrotherapy baths, full-body treatments, facials, Ayurvedic massage, CBD restorative body treatments, and more. “The main draw

The main draw for events at The Boca Raton is the opportunity to attend an event at an iconic property.”

–Robert Cameron,

director of sales, The Boca Raton

for events at The Boca Raton is the opportunity to attend an event at an iconic property,” says Robert Cameron, the hotel’s director of sales. thebocaraton.com Farther up the Floridian coast, The Breakers Palm Beach provides an alternative option for hosting an event at a renowned beachfront property. The hotel, founded by Henry Flagler in 1896, has 534 guest rooms and 80,000 square feet of f lexible meeting space. It’s hard not to feel swept away when entering the stately resort modeled after the Villa Medici in Rome. It’s palatial with Mediterranean-style architectural details and bright with natural lighting. A recent refresh gives the hotel a modern feel. Despite the resort’s large size, it can feel quite intimate, with 10 specialty restaurants, 25 poolside bungalows, and an indoor-outdoor spa at which meeting planners can host smaller events or as a way to offer attendees a relaxing break. Treatments available at the spa include custom massages, the Guerlain Black Orchid Treatment facial, and the Deep-Sea Pedicure. thebreakers.com

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BENDING

THE

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I

t’s a quandary meeting and event planners face now more than ever. Budgets have stayed mostly static as expenses have taken off at the speed of light and attendee expectations have reached a new stratosphere. We connected with planners, suppliers, destinations, and people holding major association leadership positions to get their take on the situation.

It frequently boils down to the purpose of the meeting or event. “If the focus is growing a client base, bending the budget can help create a fantastic environment for making strong connections,” suggests Amber Allen, CPCE, director of food and beverage for Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale, Arizona, and president of the National Association of Catering & Events board of directors.

“If the meeting is focused on training and professional development, it can be stripped down and less over the top, but it’s still important to look at the objectives. By bending the budget a little and creating an interactive break or team-building event, you can present information in a fun and fresh way that attendees will remember,” she says.

“When it comes to events, there are certain aspects that are worth bending the budget for in order to create memorable and impactful experiences. It’s harder than ever to compete for attendee attention, so spend money on things that will capture your audience’s attention and keep them truly engaged,” adds Mike Mahaffey, executive vice president of show and event services at Inspire, a Dallas-based company specializing in audiovisual, staging, and production.

As the director of destination services for Visit Frisco in Texas, Lisa Bethea absolutely sees clients splurging on items that enhance the event experience. “This could mean spending a little extra to include transportation, a unique off-site venue, local food and beverage options, or exposure to a once-in-alifetime opportunity,” she says.

UDGET SEMEFW24.indb 23

THE BIG PICTURE Budget was the main topic of discussion at Global DMC Partners’ ninth annual Connection conference, held May 18-21 at Atlantis Palm Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. “Budgets have not changed for many companies since 2019, but airfare, food, and beverage have increased [in pricing] by 30-40%,” says Catherine Chaulet, CEO of Global DMC Partners.

Fortunately, people want more free time and are done with nonstop schedules. “A super busy agenda doesn’t work anymore, and it is cheaper on the budget,” she emphasizes. “For activities, it is important to be selective and choose what fits the budget.”

On the flip side of the budget coin, spending on luggage management and the presence of standby vehicles and staff at the airport can be extremely valuable. “This is not the sexy side, but it is critical to start an event on the right foot,” Chaulet stresses.

“We also are seeing more investment in sustainability and caring for the community by supporting the local economy and people.”

Thinking from the perspective of attendees who are paying for registration and exhibitors and of sponsors who are helping finance a gathering is key to the budgeting balancing act, says Gary Schirmacher, CMP, immediate past chair of the MPI Foundation and senior consultant of talent acquisition for Maritz Global Events, an event experience design company.

For attendees, the days of constantly being shepherded out of the hallways and into sessions, luncheons, and dinners are indeed over. This can have financial benefits, like a reduced number of spea kers to host, shorter receptions without extensive food offerings, and pay-to-play gatherings such as a president’s dinner. He notes, “As planners, we have to give white-space time … people pay for that right.”

Schirmacher says many meeting planners work with little to zero budgeting, resulting in a lack of choice other than to work with the same budget as the previous year when organizing an event—unless they’re able to make a good case to budget an

Where to splurge and make events shine, and when to pull back for financial good sense

BY BETH BUEHLER

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increase in revenue. “Your deal in Seattle last year doesn’t mean you’ll get the same deal in Denver, and planners have to look at what it might cost in 2026 in Chicago.”

Schirmacher suggests looking at “shared economy” possibilities as a solution, meaning multiple groups may have programs at a large property at the same time, and can use the same menus, audiovisual services, and transportation providers to save money.

SUPPLIERS TIPS Christopher Falvey, cofounder and group planning manager for Unique NOLA Tours, works with organizations hosting conferences and industry events in New Orleans, Louisiana. “A planned walking tour of the city is a fairly inexpensive way to get everyone together outside of the event itself to mingle, team build, and make connections in a much more relaxed atmosphere,” he says.

Fa lvey recommends ma king ex tracurricular activities optional to avoid overloading the schedule, but emphasizes the benefits of investing in knowledgeable providers. “With a tour and activity planner, you’re going to get the best of the city. Plus, you’ll still have your attendee audience together, which is the whole point of the event.”

On the production side of a gathering, it can be hard to know how far to go in terms of dollars spent, but few people would deny the impact, especially for larger gatherings. “Investing in show production and creative elements can truly transform an event.

Whether it’s through stunning and over-the-top stage setups,

immersive lighting designs, or engaging multimedia presentations, these elements have the power to captivate attendee attention,” emphasizes Mahaffey from Inspire, the in-house technology partner for over 100 hotels and convention centers.

However, the importance of content quality should not be overshadowed. “Allocating a significant portion of the budget to visual and technical aspects while neglecting to invest in compelling speakers, relevant content, and well-crafted presentations can undermine the overall success of the event. Striking a balance between production values and content quality is crucial,” he says.

FOOD & BEVERAGE INSIGHTS When it comes to bending the bar budget, there are a few items worth prioritizing, says Catarina Tucker, owner of Barnastics Mobile Bartending in Morristown, New Jersey. “Investing in skilled bartenders who can create signature cocktails and engage with guests is essential. Their expertise and charisma can elevate the overall bar experience, leaving a lasting impression on attendees,” she says. “When it comes to drink ingredients, we recommend simple cocktails that utilize only one type of liquor.”

In terms of add-ons, she suggests utilizing the firm’s staff package or booking Barnastics’ Ripples machine to add special touches to top off coffee, beer, and cocktails. “This innovative technology allows us to create customized designs and messages on the foam of each drink, adding a touch of personalization and excitement.”

PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT) Barnastics, MPI/Luis Marti Photography, RMC, Pure Arabia/Global DMC Partners

Clockwise: Unique drink art by Barnastics Mobile Bartending; MPI golf event; An event by RMC; Camel riding at Pure Arabia’s Connection conference in the United Arab Emirates

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PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT) Barnastics, MPI/Luis Marti Photography, RMC, Pure Arabia/Global DMC Partners

“It’s harder than ever to compete for attendee attention, so spend money on things that will capture your audience’s attention and keep them truly engaged.”

—MIKE MAHAFFEY, executive vice president of show and event services, Inspire

In terms of elevated food service, it can be as simple as one spectacular item. A seafood tower in the center of the room, a mobile guacamole cart, or an interactive dessert display done tableside are impactful options, suggests Allen.

She also provided a short list of additional considerations, such as spending more on lighting and audiovisual, making linen and chair upgrades, and hiring an experienced planner to facilitate all aspects of a program. “The risk can be going way outside of the budget and the [return on investment] not showing from the event,” she says. “The reward is [that] the client is so blown away by the event that you have gained a client for life.”

ADVICE FROM PLANNERS U.S. Air Conditioning Distributors has hosted several distributor meetings at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. While fixed costs like hotel rooms and food are easier to keep in check, it’s line items like entertainment that can go over budget, says Desiree Navarro, commercial sales administrative assistant.

“This year, I’m considering hiring a big band—1930s-40s era—for our nighttime dinner entertainment. This is not inexpensive, but the experience it gives attendees is second to none,” Navarro says.

The company budgets money for thoughtful touches. “Attendees love the little and the big extras we provide. Whether that’s cabanas at the pool at Pechanga or meals for their families,

this all lends itself to the camaraderie among our engineers, as well as to their retention in the company,” she says.

Colorado-based RMC has offices around the U.S. and specializes in full-service, high-end destination management services in over 30 locations. When a client is faced with budget cuts, Tiffany Lucca, senior operations manager for RMC Coastal Carolina and Georgia, prioritizes elements for the overall program and each individual event.

One solution involves using inventory in RMC’s warehouse that are cost-effective versus larger decor items that can still go a long way in terms of look. “Some examples are a pop of color with pillows, chargers, napkin rings and blankets, which soften the event and bring in an element of design that is better for a budget cut,” says Lucca.

Immersive activities that plug into local culture also are worth the extra spend. For example, if an event is taking place in a coastal location, planners can book activities like oyster shucking or foraging for sea urchins, says Kalyn Bean, vice barnasticsllc.com globaldmcpartners.com president of operations for hotelvalleyho.com RMC. “In mountain destinainspiresolutions.com tions, including a wolf or birds maritzglobalevents.com of prey [viewing] from a local pechanga.com nonprofit organization—even rmcdmc.com at the same time—can leave uniquenola.com attendees speechless.” visitfrisco.com

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I ND U STRY U PDATE Infographic

O

Posh Plates

ne way to reach attendees’ hearts is by appealing to their stomachs. Before you plan menus for your event, you might consider what top chefs believe is hot— and what they think is not. The National Restaurant Association, American Culinary Federation, and Techtronic surveyed some 500 chefs from across the country on what’s trendy in food and beverage. The organizations’ report, “What’s Hot 2023 Culinary Forecast,” is full of ideas you can use to add a little pizzaz to event chow.

WHAT’S IN VOGUE? 1. Globally inspired sandwiches 2. Outside-of-the-box handhelds 3. Amazake drinks 5. Balkan foods 6. Raki drinks 7. Automated cooking technology 8. Haupia

(Hawaiian coconut pudding)

9. Huacatay spice 10. Breakfast bowl-plus

(e.g., egg-pasta bowls)

Amazake fermented

WHAT’S FADING? 1. Pickle pizza 2. Breakfast salads 3. Fried lasagna 4. Balsamic cocktails 5. Fruit-flavored coffee 6. Pickled French fries 7. Ranch water 8. Upscale pigs-in-a-blanket 9. Name-brand snacks 10. Crudités platters

Huacatay spice is also called Peruvian black mint and has intense flavors of sweet basil, tarragon, and lime. Make a tea option with it during coffee time or consider putting Adobo Chicken with Huacatay Salsa Verde on the menu.

drinks are made from rice, Koji rice, and water, and have an interesting flavor that can be mixed with lattes and smoothies.

The Japanese consider amazake a superfood, as it boosts immunity, improves digestion, relieves fatigue, and contributes to healthylooking skin and hair.

PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) Adobe/ruslanita, Adobe/Chiristsumo, Adobe/New Africa, Adobe/Yulia Furman

4. Alfajor sweets

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Lunch Leaders

1. Chicken sandwiches 3.0

(e.g., spicy and sweet-hot fusion)

2. Fried chicken sandwiches 3. Flatbread sandwiches/healthy wraps

Dinner Winners

1. Less-expensive meat cuts (chicken thighs, etc.)

2. Cauliflower in place of carbs 3. Family-style meals

Dessert Champions 1. Alternative sweeteners

(maple sugar, coconut sugar, etc.)

2. Revamped classics

(MoonPies, oatmeal cream pies, deconstructed s’mores, etc.)

3. CBD desserts

MoonPies are trendy today, but the s’more-like,

marshmallowy treat was originally developed by the Chattanooga Bakery in Tennessee in 1917 as a snack for coal miners. MoonPies really took off during World War II, turning up in care packages for soldiers overseas. Today, they can be handed out to meetinggoers during afternoon breaks.

Everyone loves a fried chicken sandwich. Ours is served with a Senegalese sweet and tangy sauce of caramelized onion, slow cooked with Dijon mustard and lemon. It’s a favorite on our lunch and dinner menu, and I have had guests beg me never to pull it off the menu.”

–AMI DIA, chef and co-founder, Le French in Denver, Colorado

Nonalcoholic Crowd-Pleasers

Chic Cocktails

1. Oat, nut, or seed milks

1. Spritzes

2. Unusual cold brews

2. Espresso martinis

3. Seltzers

3. Spicy mixed drinks

Some spicy mixed drinks to consider having bartenders offer attendees include the Pineapple Chile Margarita, Cucumber Wasabi Martini, and the Tequila Cocoa Caliente. A simple addition of Tajín Clásico to the rim of the cocktail glass is also a spicy touch.

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I N D USTRY U P DAT E Regional News

MASSIVE HOSPITALITY DEVELOPMENT UNDERWAY IN JACKSONVILLE

F

of building communities and creating exceptional luxury experiences.”

In addition to the development’s 170 rooms, Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Jacksonville will also boast 26 private residences, four dining and lounge outlets, a world-class spa, multiple outdoor pools with cabana service, an on-site gym, and expansive meeting and event space.

The property will mark Khan’s second collaboration with Four Seasons. Khan, owner of the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars, purchased full ownership of Four Seasons Hotel Toronto in 2016. “I have immense love and respect for Jacksonville and Four Seasons alike,” Khan says in a prepared statement. “So, for me, it has always been about connecting the two, because they have so much to offer each other.” fourseasons.com

RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER & PNC ARENA TO UNDERGO RENOVATIONS Two North Carolina venues are expected to receive millions of dollars earmarked for extensive renovation projects. According to Wake County and Raleigh officials, these investments are necessary for the PNC Arena and Raleigh Convention Center to remain competitive in the years to come.

The 24-year-old PNC Arena, home of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, is expected to receive about $300 million in tourism tax revenue over the course of 25 years. Those funds will be allocated toward the development of an entertainment district next to the arena. The mixed-use facility will have 100,000 square feet of retail space, 150,000 square feet of offices, and 200 multifamily residential rental units. A total of $387 million in hospitality tax revenue is earmarked for an expansion of the Raleigh Convention Center. With this expansion, center officials say it could potentially double in size, and a hotel would be added to address a lodging shortage.

Raleigh Convention Center in North Carolina

pncarena.com | raleighconvention.com

PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE) Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Miami Beach Convention Center, Orange County Convention Center, Adobe/zimmytws

ou r S ea son s Hot el s & R esor t s has partnered with Shahid Khan through Ig ua na Florida LLC to develop a new hotel and private residence complex in Jacksonville, Florida. Expected to open in 2026, the Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Jacksonville will “play an integral role” in the development of the Jacksonville Shipyards.

Featuring luxurious urban design, the development will be along the banks of the St. Johns River, adjacent to the Sports Complex and proposed Stadium of the Future—a renovated and reimagined EverBank Stadium. “Four Seasons is incredibly proud to bring our renowned service and hospitality offering to one of the fastestgrowing cities in the United States,” says Bart Carnahan, executive vice president of global business development and portfolio management at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts. “As Jacksonville continues to enhance its offerings for people to live, work, and play, we look forward to working with Mr. Khan to expand our presence in Florida and extend our longtime partnership, contributing to the city’s bright future and achieving our shared vision

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PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE) Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Miami Beach Convention Center, Orange County Convention Center, Adobe/zimmytws

The Grand Ballroom at Miami Beach Convention Center

Orange County Convention Center Partners With Disney

T Miami Beach Convention Center Expands » FOLLOWING A $640 MILLION RENOVATION, the award-winning Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) in Florida has expanded. Additions include a 60,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom, four junior ballrooms, and 500,000 square feet of exhibition space. Also added was an expanded Grand Lobby, pre-function areas, 84 breakout rooms, $10.2 million-worth of artwork, and 9 acres of public green space. The campus also features two new event spaces: Venu, an elegant space for upscale meetings and events, and the Rum Room, a 1920s-inspired restaurant with a menu of tapas and Florida rums.

The MBCC is a recipient of the Global Biorisk Advisory Council STAR Facility Accreditation and LEED Silver certification, denoting a commitment to future outbreak and pandemic preparedness, as well as a commitment to promoting sustainability, respectively. A hotel connected with the MBCC, a Grand Hyatt, is currently under development and is expected to open in spring 2026. miamibeachconvention.com

REGIONAL AIRPORTS SEE UPDATES Travelers to and from the Southeast can expect to see some changes at area airports as Frontier Airlines increases its presence in Florida and Southwest Airlines establishes a new crew base for pilots and flight attendants in Tennessee.

Frontier announced in August the expansion of winter services across several domestic and international destinations. As of November, the airline now offers additional flights to Fort Myers’ Southwest Florida International Airport, Miami International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, and Tampa International Airport.

Also in August, Southwest announced its newest crew base location, at Nashville International Airport, which will open in 2024. There are currently 11 crew bases in the Southwest system, servicing hundreds of pilots and flight attendants.

“Hundreds of Southwest employees who work in the air and on the ground already consider their hometown to be in Middle Tennessee, with our presence in Nashville remaining a key factor to our success, future growth, and the reliability of our network,” says Andrew Watterson, chief operating officer at Southwest Airlines. “Given our love for Nashville and the critical importance it plays in our network, it’s a natural choice to make further investments by adding a crew base and doubling down on our commitment to the Music City.” flyfrontier.com; southwest.com

he Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Florida, announced this summer a new Gold Key partnership with Walt Disney World.

The agreement between the OCCC and Disney offers exposure to show managers, exhibitors, and attendees visiting the convention center through a range of sales and marketing channels to build relationships and host events off-site.

“The convention center’s Gold Key partnership with Walt Disney World will greatly enhance our mission and support our clients’ events in our destination,” says OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester in a prepared statement. “Walt Disney World’s premier resources and offerings will be extremely valuable for our customers, exhibitors, and sponsors.”

Walt Disney World Meetings & Events offers meeting planners and attendees access to world-renowned venues, immersive experiences, and creative resources, including customized private events across all Disney theme parks and fullscale productions on-site at the OCCC. “We are thrilled to work alongside the Orange County Convention Center through this new Gold Key relationship, infusing the magic and wonder of Disney storytelling into the conferences and conventions coming to Central Florida,” says Ramiro Vazquez, vice president of Walt Disney World Meetings & Events. “Event planners and exhibitors will have full access to exclusive benefits and worldclass Disney entertainment, production and creative resources on-site at the Orange County Convention Center or at our Walt Disney World theme parks.”

The Gold Key contract between Disney and the OCCC is slated for three years but includes three additional one-year renewal periods upon mutual agreement. disneymeetingsandevents.com | occc.net

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S NAP S HOT S AAHOA Gulf Regional Conference & Trade Show

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All Things Industry Insights The Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) hosted its 2023 Gulf Regional Conference & Trade Show at Hilton New Orleans Riverside in Louisiana in early September. With more than 300 hoteliers in attendance, including Louisiana’s Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser, the event featured a panel discussion between industry experts that focused on industry trends, challenges hoteliers face in insurance, and the daily obstacles of hotel operations.

Networking opportunities like the Young Professional Hoteliers Reception allowed those new to the industry to meet, learn, and make connections.

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1. AAHOA Treasurer Kamalesh (KP) Patel, Chair Bharat Patel, Ambassador Meghna Patel, and Secretary Rahul Patel 2. Young Professionals Reception to honor the next generation of hoteliers 3. Tanmay Patel and Kishor Patel 4. AAHOA Young Professional Director Eastern Division Dylan Patel connected with industry partners and members 5. Bharat Patel, Lt. Gov Billy Nungesser, and Pravin Patel 6. Attendees at the education session 7. Women hoteliers gained industry insights and strengthened their hospitality network 8. Dave Shah of Pineapple Capital Group

To have your meeting or event photos featured, contact mfuerstenberg@greenspring.com.

PHOTOS Asian American Hotel Owners Association

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PHOTOS Asian American Hotel Owners Association

Largest National Audience of Meeting + Event Planners

132,000+

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Hotel Info & Requests conciergeatlct@hyatt.com MEETINGSMAGS.COM/SOUTHEAST 31

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P EOPLE P ROFI L E Meg Baird

Built by The Big Easy

Meg Baird uses knowledge of her home city to produce ‘flawless’ events BY MADELINE FUERSTENBERG

PHOTO George Kuchler

» FOR NINE GENERATIONS,

Meg Baird’s family has called New Orleans, Louisiana, home. Through a lifetime of learning and loving the iconic cultural hot spot, Baird knows her away around The Big Easy—and she has made it her mission to foster that love in others.

Baird is the owner and president of NOLA DMC, a destination management company specializing in event design, custom excursions, team-building activities, Corporate Social Responsibility programs, creative entertainment, and more. She established NOLA DMC in 2016, but her background in the destination management business goes back as early as 2000.

“I really fell into the industry after college, but I truly love planning events in New Orleans,” Baird says. “My No. 1 goal is to produce flawless events that meet my clients’ goals and objectives.”

NOLA DMC’s team, comprising many New Orleans natives, takes on about 100 to 150 events per year. “NOLA DMC offers local expertise, customized event planning, cost efficiency, and a range of services that can benefit event planners looking to host an event in New Orleans,” Baird explains. “[Our] ability to infuse the spirit of the city into events makes [us] a compelling choice for those seeking a memorable and unique experience in The Big Easy.”

With a proven track record in the event-planning industry, Baird earned a spot on the Inc. 5000 list this year as well as the Forbes Next 1,000 Entrepreneurs list in 2021. Other accolades awarded to Baird and her team include the Association of Destination Management Executives International (ADMEI) Best Decor/Design award this year, the ADMEI Best Risk Management & Mitigation award last year, and the Meeting Planners International (MPI) Presidents Award for the Gulf States Chapter in 2013.

Beyond event planning, Baird and her team place a special value on giving back to their community, volunteering for the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation’s Christmas Gift Back and, in the past, BYOBikes, a nonprofit that aims to build stronger and safer communities by gifting donated bikes to at-risk and less-fortunate children in Greater New Orleans and along the Gulf Coast of Mississippi.

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PHOTO George Kuchler

GOOD MEETINGS. GREAT MEMORIES. From mouthwatering cuisine to thrilling experiences, riverfront gaming and entertainment, Shreveport-Bossier has a cultural blend you won’t find anywhere else.

MEETING AMENITIES • Large, flexible meeting venues • 350,000-square-foot Shreveport Convention Center • More than 10,000 hotel rooms • Three dozen attractions

• More than 55 festivals and annual events • 200 local restaurants. Gumbo, brisket, Mexican soul food – take your pick!

BOOK YOUR MEETING TODAY!

1-800-551-8682 | MEETINGS@VISITSHREVEPORTBOSSIER.ORG VISITSHREVEPORTBOSSIER.ORG

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LOCAL INGREDIENTS HIT WORLD CLASS HEIGHTS.

Orlando dining is on the rise. With notable new restaurants opening every year, the Orlando dining scene continues to outdo itself. A group of newly-recognized MICHELIN restaurants represent a wide variety of cuisines in neighborhoods all across town. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time hosting a group in Orlando, these eateries are designed to impress.

ORLANDOMEETING.COM

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