The Austin Convention Center is preparing to make its mark on the ever-changing Austin skyline with a vertical approach to expansion and redevelopment, beginning in April 2025, that will nearly double the amount of rentable space by 2029.
In using a vertical approach to deliver a larger, more efficient facility, the goal of the Austin Convention Center expansion and redevelopment is to transform the southeast corner of downtown Austin into a community-centric destination for attendees and the community.
Along with providing more rentable space, the Austin Convention Center expansion and redevelopment will provide a signature design, featuring state-of-the-art technologies and an industry-leading facility that is ready to exceed future clients’ needs.
“We’re so pleased to support the Austin Convention Center and the City of Austin as they move forward with the redesign project.”
Michele Flores SXSW Chief Logistics Officer“This announcement is an exciting one for the Austin hotel community. Not only will a new and redeveloped convention center bring more meetings and events business to Austin, but create more jobs for our industry and further positively impact the Austin hospitality community at large. This project has long been in the works and we are happy to finally see this come to fruition.”
Nenad Praporski General Manager of Fairmont Austin and Chairman of the Austin Hotel Lodging Association
“To give the community, visitors, and attendees the true authentic Austin experience, we want the new Austin Convention Center to be an iconic, innovative, and symbolic meeting location.”
Trisha Tatro Austin Convention Center Department Director
For more information: www.austinconventioncenter.com
Host your event in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District and experience legendary hospitality and the true spirit of the West. With spaces ranging from 2,700-12,000 square feet and adjacent to Mule Alley and the award-winning Hotel Drover, a fun time is waiting!
» LAST YEAR, the peak temperature over the summer where I live in Texas was 109 degrees. While even Texans don’t enjoy that kind of weather, we have learned how to live with it. I imagine it’s comparable to how my Minnesota friends felt when they had almost 90 inches of snow last winter. The summer heat in Texas is the motivation many of us need to do things differently.
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Of course, having a pool nearby helps. We had one in our backyard growing up with a sign posted that read: “Welcome to our ool. Notice there is no p in it. Please keep it that way.” My friends and I swam daily through the summer. As an adult, I learned to run all my errands in the early morning or evening because the car becomes unbearably hot after sitting in a grocery store parking lot for half an hour— as in, can’t-even-touch-the-steering-wheel hot.
All that said, summer truly is one of the most fun and relaxing times in the state. It sounds paradoxical, but when you live with that kind of heat, you learn to, well, chill. You find shade, you plan indoor activities, and you spend your hard-earned cash on a season pass to a water park. You live at that water park. You go so often the teenager working the concessions stand texts you to tell you that your kid is buying too many hot dogs—or so I would imagine.
On the following pages, we highlight some of the favorite water parks and amusement parks with water rides that demonstrate that the heat in Texas is actually a good thing. Without it, you might go somewhere else for that summer conference and do nothing but work. You might spend your down time in your hotel room with a remote in your hand. Instead, spend the summer exploring the Prairies and Lakes region with its wildflowers and professional sports teams. Visit some of the best colleges and universities in the state to find the right venue surrounded by youthful, buzzing energy. And explore creative ideas for catering, meeting planning, and team building. So, grab your sunscreen and settle in for a refreshing change of scenery and a cool take on Texas summer.
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BY AMANDA CHRISTENSEN
» WHETHER IT’S A LARGE-SCALE CONFERENCE with hundreds in attendance or an intimate teambuilding retreat for co-workers, it’s important to provide personalized meeting itineraries that cater to guests’ preferences, values, and interests. The International Association of Conference Centers reports that there has been increased personalization of attendee experiences in recent years with 80% of meeting planners reporting that their jobs involve more experience creation than two to five years ago.
Attendees not only want to spend their time at a conference learning and connecting, but they also want to engage in sessions and activities that align with what matters to them—from a lecture on branding or mindfulness to activities like hiking or wine tasting during prearranged free time.
Dreamforce, an annual user conference in San Francisco, California, brings industry pioneers, thought leaders, and internet technology professionals together for a weekend of lectures and networking. The event incorporates guided meditation and mindfulness sessions for attendees to align their mental and physical well-being with their conference goals. After all, a content attendee is a more engaged attendee. salesforce.com
Maritz Global Events, based in St. Louis, Missouri, uses a team of consulting experts to personalize events from a portfolio of 20-plus event attendee personas—created from a combination of event strategy and behavioral research—that helps planners anticipate, visualize, and align with the motives of potential event-goers. maritzglobalevents.com
Mystery Trip, an event-planning company based in Los Angeles, creates mystery itineraries that are kept secret from attendees until they arrive for the activity. Each itinerary is custom-made for guests based on a survey taken during the initial kick-o meeting to determine what the group is most interested in doing. Examples include taking a team from Netflix to Gri th Park in Los Angeles to film a mock ’90s sitcom intro. mysterytrip.com
» WHILE THE TREND of remote work has allowed companies to connect from locations around the world, many corporate leaders and human resources teams are now facing the increased importance of building a collaborative workforce through long-distance meetings. When colleagues feel connected to a team, they tend to be more productive and focused, and more likely to stick around long-term.
As Henry Ford, founder of Ford Motor Co., once said, “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” When building a successful team, it’s helpful to occasionally bring co-workers from different locations together for an in-person function where they can interact with colleagues across skill levels and experiences. This gathering also provides the opportunity for a team to discuss common goals, collaborate, celebrate, and share the success of the organization.
Planning a meaningful experience can drive success in building reliable team bonds. Throughout my career working on the ground for meetings and events, I have helped plan and organize many teambuilding programs —from extravagant multiday immersion retreats to simple reunion-style receptions and activities that have helped colleagues get reacquainted with one another.
While an extravagant celebration offers planners a fun way for a team to gather, those planners don’t need to break the bank to have a powerful experience. In fact, I’ve noticed that some attendees occasionally have reservations about attending a large team experience—an understandable concern if someone is meeting new people or has worked remotely for a long period. With that in mind, I recommend groups start the function with meeting basics—from a company introduction and colleague networking to ice-breaker activities.
In addition, taking meetings into nature continues to reign in popularity well into 2023. I’ve seen how attendees truly appreciate the outdoors, especially when in larger groups. Not only does the open-air setting help guests to fully enjoy the beauty of their meeting destination, but the natural ambience can also refresh, invigorate, and inspire.
I recommend working with a venue that has both indoor and outdoor function spaces that can be customized for your group. For example, my home base
at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa in San Antonio offers more than 100,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor space paired with numerous activities that help groups create lasting memories together, ranging from surfing competitions on our FlowRider wave machine to our Hill Country Olympics with armadillo racing.
One of the most important tips for bringing colleagues together is to build a schedule that is inclusive. Not all attendees will want to take part in a 5K run, nor will everyone be interested in cocktailmaking classes or meditation sessions. With that being said, I recommend surveying the attendees prior to finalizing the schedule to learn what activities are favored, and then add additional options to cover attendees’ preferences.
On a similar note, it’s important to get attendees involved in as many aspects of the planning process as possible. The most effective meetings are the ones that are customized to guests’ preferences. I’ve seen planners work with their groups on everything from customized menus and location preferences to gauging interest in indoor versus outdoor events. By keeping the group involved, planners are sure to see a successful event that everyone will remember for years to come.
If you’d like to contribute your professional ideas for guest columns in an upcoming issue, reach out to adurham@greenspring.com.
oswell is a small New Mexico city that has gained worldwide fame, primarily due to the storied UFO crash in 1947. However, Roswell offers much more than just extraterrestrial sightings. The city is easily accessible from Texas whether your group is flying nonstop from Dallas-Fort Worth or taking a motor coach to the southeastern New Mexico town.
Larger groups and corporate events can be accommodated at the recently remodeled Roswell Convention & Civic Center, home to multiple breakout rooms and a 15,800-square-foot exhibit hall. For a bit of historic charm, The Hi-Q Venue offers up to 300 seated guests an atmosphere of industrial glamour with exposed brick walls contrasting with
formal table settings and architectural features like the tin roof tiles that date back to the 1800s.
Local sites include the Robert H. Goddard Planetarium, the International UFO Museum and Research Center, and several art galleries. Foodies can enjoy dishes made with the state’s famous red and green chiles, and nature lovers can trek through the wilderness of Bottomless
Lakes State Park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Take a day trip to White Sands National Park or Carlsbad Caverns National Park for unforgettable landscapes. Every June, visitors from all over the world attend the Roswell UFO Festival, dress like aliens, and enjoy live music and good food. –Amy Durham
seeroswell.com
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area near Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country is a massive pink granite dome attractive for attendee side trips from Austin or San Antonio. Your gathering can enjoy hiking, backpacking, picnicking, bird-watching, geocaching, and camping before taking in the breathtaking scenery from the top of the granite rock formation. The dome climb is an easy hike that can be completed in about 30 minutes, depending on your group’s fitness level. The gates open at 6:30 a.m. daily for the early risers, who can take in the sunrise. If you prefer the sunset, make sure to arrive before the gates close at 8 p.m. and stay until 10 p.m. for stargazing. tpwd.texas.gov
–Mitzuko Byreso unplug and unwind among the scenery of central Texas, bring your group to the Camp Lucy resort in Dripping Springs. The 282-acre ranch provides group activities including yoga, archery, guided hiking, hatchetthrowing, cooking cl a sses, a lp a ca feeding, vineyard tours, and s’mores around the fire pit. The property offers wellness-focused programming year-round, but from July 20-23, a women-focused retreat creates a luxury experience for guests as they enjoy new-age and traditional wellness practices, a retreat some may wish to add on to the beginning or end of a Texas event. The first in an annual series, the retreat agenda offers curated events, talks from wellness industry leaders, and interactive experiences like sound baths and stargazing. Attendees will enjoy chef-prepared meals by Executive Chef Meredith Shaffer, social hours, and personalized schedules. The retreat will provide guests with a chance to rest, rejuvenate, and deepen their connection with themselves and nature. camplucy.com –Mitzuko
Byres
» EVENT VOLUNTEERS not only help lower costs, but they also make an event run more efficiently. The Heart O’ Texas (HOT) Fair & Rodeo held at the Extraco Events Center in Waco attracted over 230,000 visitors last year, and it takes more than 500 volunteers to wrangle all the logistics.
“During our 11-day fair, we have 24 different committees operating on the grounds, each doing something unique— everything from public relations to helping out during Mutton Bustin (an activity where kids ride sheep) in the Kid’s Zone, to working the barbecue cookoff or the golf tournament,” says Katy Fehler, senior division manager for the volunteer program at the Extraco Events Center.
There’s even a special committee called Purposeful Acts of Kindness that coordinates and organizes events to show appreciation to the HOT Fair & Rodeo volunteers and staff. Volunteers get perks valued at more than $500, including entry passes for the volunteer and a guest; a volunteer reception and appreciation dinners throughout the year; a designated lounge with snacks, drinks, and a resting spot; free parking at Extraco Events Center for the entire year; and an awards dinner in January honoring years of service.
HOT Fair & Rodeo volunteers also help with ticket sales. “Our volunteers participate in our presale campaign, which supports our scholarship giving,” Fehler says. “They are eligible to receive incentives back based on their sales production. Last year, our volunteer base had a record-setting year and raised $750,000. Our top salespeople just got back from an all-inclusive vacation to Punta Cana [in the Dominican Republic].”
Fehler says it’s important to find the right volunteers. “Recruit those who believe wholeheartedly in your mission, make sure they have a fulfilling role, create a fun environment to serve, and appreciate them always.” extracoeventscenter.com –Mitzuko
ByresHost your next event at this pristine, historic ranch nestled along the Colorado River. In addition to full event amenities, you and your guests will enjoy all-inclusive luxe accommodations, field-and-farm cuisine, attentive staff, an infinity pool, and much more. You and your crew take over the ranch, and let Spread Oaks Ranch take care of everything else.
Find championship sports teams, scenic views, and Western charm in the sprawling cities of the Prairies and Lakes region
BY AMY DURHAM» BETWEEN THE DUSTY PLAINS of the West Texas Panhandle and the lush forests of the Piney Woods in East Texas, a 45,000-square-mile region stretches from north to south from the Oklahoma border down to Cuero, just east of San Antonio. Drive through the countryside in this transitional area of the state and you’ll find woodlands of oak, pecan, and cottonwood trees dotted among the miles and miles of grassland prairie.
The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is the most well-known urban center in the area, but small cities and towns scattered throughout the region are full of character. The Prairies and Lakes region is so large, it would be hard to see it all at once, so Texas Meetings + Events rounded up some of the highlights for your group.
If you want an Instagrammable moment in the Lone Star State, the Fort Worth Stockyards is the place to visit. Fort Worth is located along the former Chisolm Trail, a major route in late 19th-century cattle drives, and a current favorite for events. “Attendees can experience traditional Texas culture,” says
Amy Brown, senior vice president of sales and services at Visit Fort Worth. “Watch the brave bull riders at the world’s only year-round rodeo. Admire the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive, the Fort Worth Herd. Or dance the night away at Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk.”
South of Fort Worth, visit Cleburne’s Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum and spend time at the Big Bear Native American Museum that commemorates the stories of Native Americans in North America from their arrival over 13,000 years ago to the present. Stop and smell the wildflowers along the streets of historic downtown Waxahachie, the Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas, lined with hundreds of blooming pink crape myrtles in late spring. Drive 20 minutes to Ennis, the official Bluebonnet City of Texas, and hike miles of trails lined with fields of the purple- and blue-colored flowers.
At the southern end of the region, Texas A&M University sits in College Station, where the vibe is energetic with live music every weekend and restaurants that cater to comfort food and the beer crowd. Finally, cool down with a stop at the Blue Bell ice creamery in Brenham, where you can sample all the justlike-homemade flavors—and a few you can’t get anywhere else.
The Prairies and Lakes name gives it away—there are a lot of lakes in the region. Even in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, water features are a big part of city planning—like in Las Colinas, a neighborhood in Irving. “Las Colinas features 56 lakes and Venetian-like canals; tree-lined, cobblestone walkways; and old-world charm,” says Lori Sirman, communications manager at the Irving Convention and Visitors Bureau.
In central Texas, Waco straddles the Brazos River with a suspension bridge built during the heyday of the Chisolm Trail. Baylor University fills the small city with youthful energy, and Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Market at the Silos has made Waco a sought-out destination for shopping and home renovation fans. South on Interstate 35, Salado is an
artsy, diverse town, home to one of Texas’ oldest hotels, the Stagecoach Inn. The spring-fed creek that runs through the area is a favorite swimming hole in the summer. Artists at work in their galleries line the historic district streets, earning the village a Cultural District Designation by the Texas Commission on the Arts. Area lakes and state parks offer a variety of outdoor activities. Lake Fork near Mineola and Lake Ray Roberts near Sanger both attract fishing enthusiasts. Cedar Hill State Park is bordered by Joe Pool Lake, Cedar Mountain Nature Preserve, and Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center, creating a haven for wildlife and a refuge for busy visitors in need of some downtime. At Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, you can literally step into the footprints of dinosaurs that were left in the Paluxy riverbed over
100 million years ago. The tracks are best seen in summer when part of the river will be dry, and kayaking and camping are available year-round.
The Prairies and Lakes region is a top choice for sports fans. With multiple professional teams, Dallas was ranked first in the 2023 list of top U.S. cities good for sports business by Sports Business Journal. The NFL’s Dallas Cowboys practice in Frisco at a 91,000-square-foot facility, The Star. Both Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas and the NHL’s Dallas Stars have their practice headquarters in Frisco, too. The Dallas Mavericks play NBA games at The American Airlines Center in downtown Dallas to sold-out crowds.
If you’re in Arlington, watch MLB’s Texas Rangers play ball at Globe Life Field, or get tickets to see the Dallas Wings WNBA team shoot hoops at College Park Center. For something a little different, the Texas Motor Speedway is home to NASCAR races—you can even drive a race car for up to 40 laps.
With all this action, so much natural beauty, and the lure of Western culture, the Prairies and Lakes region is sure to provide visitors a true Texas adventure they won’t soon forget.
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» THE CATERING INDUSTRY is still feeling the pinch thanks to food industry inflation and lingering supply issues. The good news is that, according to a report by Kentley Insights, the U.S. catering industry grew by 4.4% over the last five years, an impressive accomplishment considering much of the industry shut down for two of those years. Sales in 2022 across the country totaled $12.8 billion.
“Big events are back,” says Caroline Perini, co-owner of Easy Slider in Dallas. With a brick-and-mortar restaurant and three food trucks, Perini and her partner, Miley Holmes, are enjoying a resurgence in the industry. “Our food trucks’ catering business has surpassed pre-pandemic numbers,” she says.
Texas catering has a style of its own, and trends this year include not only industrywide practices, but also regional concepts that are an extension of the culture and
creativity of Texans. Overall, food trends for 2023 will be driven by the desire for inspiring catering options that emphasize sustainability, local sourcing, and personalized dietary needs.
Sustainability will remain a crucial trend with clients requiring ingredients to be organic or locally grown and the company culture to embrace environmentally friendly practices. Reducing food waste and the carbon footprint of a catering job requires thoughtful effort, but these practices have many perks. Guests will get a taste of local fare while the company reduces the environmental impact by shopping close to home.
With the high prices putting a crimp in some menus, sustainable choices can also reduce the bill for a big event. “There’s catering for all budgets,” says
Charles Coleman, one of the catering chefs at Blue Fire Total Catering in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The company serves on china at events—unless disposable options are requested—and also offers compostable dinnerware made of bamboo or other recyclable materials.
Food stations of all kinds bring people together around their favorite dishes. Whether it’s a dessert station, a barbecue meat carver, or a charcuterie of cheeses, the trend of placing food on a table for guests to enjoy at their own pace is only increasing.
“Food stations are still big,” says Coleman. “They’re more affordable. You can’t cut down on food costs, so make it wow in other ways.” The wow factor is big with a grazing station, which is different from a food station in that every bit of space is
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covered with a variety of delicious categories. Food stations of any kind allow the event planner to reduce staff and create a more interactive environment than a multicourse, seated dinner might provide. Food stations also make it easy to cater to guests’ dietary needs by separating potential allergens or preferences.
For an immersive environment, open-fire cooking is a dramatic way to draw people in and inspire them with farm-to-table food and scenic locations around the state. This type of outdoor cooking event isn’t far off from an old-fashioned backyard barbecue, but it’s elevated by the menu and the hands preparing it. Open-fire cooking also encourages transparency with chefs able to work outside the confines of a kitchen. Instead, a guest-facing kitchen gives people the chance to savor the creation process of their meal and enjoy a sense of anticipation before they’re served. Guests can talk with chefs, which boosts interaction among the group to create a warm, conversational atmosphere under the big Texas sky.
Comfort food is another trend that is making a big comeback with a fun twist. Creative caterers are elevating ingredients and making presentations pop so that once-standard fare becomes new. Food from childhood, like hamburgers, macaroni and cheese, and pizza can evoke happy memories and relaxed attitudes, so caterers featuring these longtime favorites can directly influence the vibe of an event.
Perini’s Easy Slider serves more than just hamburgers, even though its menu staple is beef on a bun. Catering for major companies like Best Buy, Cinemark, and Hilton requires the culinary team to raise the bar on traditional comfort food, while keeping it, well, comforting. Gourmet burgers like the Nutty Pig, which is tricked out with peanut butter and bacon, and the Baby Bella with Texas portobello mushrooms,
are made with Certified Angus Beef and fresh produce from the local farmers market. These spins on an otherwise traditional dish have also helped them remain relevant as food fads come and go.
The beverage scene at an event is no longer limited to champagne towers. Caterers are fanning out to reach people who previously might have skipped the bar. Mocktails help guests who are focusing on health and wellness to enjoy a festive drink while remaining sober. And these nonalcoholic creations don’t have to be limited to virgin daiquiris or Shirley Temples. Companies like Enjoy
Mocktails, which makes nonalcoholic cocktails, liqueurs, and spirits, and Mingle Mocktails with its nonalcoholic bellinis and cosmos in pastel cans, are selling to the trade.
Texas caterers serving one-of-a-kind beverage recipes, grazing stations, and locally sourced ingredients are showing respect for guests’ choices and a creative approach to food service that will leave attendees hungry for more.
bluefirecatering.com
easyslidertexas.com
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Host your event in a walkable urban oasis. Here your attendees can stroll from our tailor fit meeting venues to chef inspired restaurants under canopies of shimmering trees. See how our team can help you inspire and impress.
BY AMY DURHAM
» SUMMERTIME IN TEXAS means sunny days without a cloud in sight—and, of course, soaring temperatures. When booking summer events, planners can create built-in heat relief by booking a venue with water activities. Choose from water parks dedicated to pool time or amusement parks with splash rides, and guests will have plenty to keep cool and entertained.
Several large parks have conference and meeting space right on the grounds, so booking is simplified. Guests are within walking distance of all the amenities they might want during their trip, and they can step away from the event at any time right into a fun, festive atmosphere. From expansive expo halls to underwater dining rooms, we dove right in to find water and amusement parks in Texas that are making waves with planners.
When you think of water parks, you might immediately think of families with kids. But for planners booking events that include attendees and their plus ones, a park intended for adults would be ideal. Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe, just an hour north of Houston, is an islandinspired resort that combines the fun of a water park and the professional networking of a golf course—and much more.
Inspired by his song “Margaritaville,” Jimmy Buffett first opened Margaritaville as a restaurant, and the concept has grown exponentially with resorts across the country. The Conroe location offers guests 303 luxury suites and 32 waterfront cottages, plus open-air venues, International Association of Conference Centers-certified meeting rooms, and a 72,000-square-foot conference center. Explore the property to find the lazy river and water park, a luxury spa, boat slips for watercraft rentals, and a variety of sport courts. Dedicated team-building activities include pineapple bowling, both miniature and 18-hole golf, sandcastle competitions, cheeseburger cook-offs, and a cardboard boat regatta.
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“Most professionals who have traveled for business meetings can relate to a scenario where you spend the entire day in meetings, classes, or group discussions,” says Andrew Yousse, communications and public information officer for the city of Conroe. “The day ends with participants meeting for dinner, where the conversation leads toward a recap of the meetings or general work-related talk. … Holding a business event at Margaritaville Lake Resort invites a more personal, social atmosphere where participants enjoy a wide range of team-building activities after a full business day.”
Bleisure travel is on the rise, so if an organization is focused on giving attendees a family vacation alongside the event, a family-friendly venue would best fit the bill. Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine is an 80,000-square-foot indoor water park with a 605-room hotel on-site. With scavenger hunts, an arcade, and rustic suites with separate space for the kids, the property is ideal for keeping
the family busy during event sessions or giving attendees team-building time on the ropes course.
Enjoy over 23,000 square feet of meeting space and conference rooms and 6,000 square feet of outdoor event space, including a 2,700-square-foot pavilion. On-site catering and a full event-planning staff make meetings run smoothly, and the 13-minute drive from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport simplifies transportation logistics.
For events farther south, San Antonio boasts rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and the famed Riverwalk. SeaWorld San Antonio is a unique aquatic adventure that offers plenty of space for meetings and unforgettable events. Guests will also find roller coasters, in-water animal interactions, restaurants, and shopping. Reserve the entire park or set up in one of the many indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, including the Nautilus Amphitheater with room for 3,000, the mezzanine level of Beluga Stadium for 150, or a dinner for 40 in an immersive underwater dining room with dolphins just a window away.
Sometimes events need a lot of room and a lot of support to make them successful. Conventions can’t be held at most hotels, so planners usually book dedicated convention centers in their chosen city with hotels a short walk away. Kalahari Resorts & Conventions-Round Rock is the largest indoor water park in the country, covering 1.5 million square feet. The resort includes 975 hotel rooms and 250,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space and is only 40 minutes north of Austin.
“The appeal of mixing work and play is only increasing,” says Shaun Yates, Kalahari Resorts & ConventionsRound Rock director of sales. “Kalahari Resorts & Conventions offers a unique all-under-one-roof experience so guests can maximize their time onsite. In addition to top-notch meeting space, Kalahari offers delicious dining options, award-winning indoor and outdoor attractions, retail shopping, Spa Kalahari, and more.”
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If the group includes adrenaline fans—or Batman fans—consider one of the two Six Flags locations in Texas for an adventurous event. “Six Flags provides a unique and fun location with built-in theming,” says Edithann Ramey, Six Flags’ chief marketing officer. “For any event from 100 to 15,000 guests, we can make it an exciting and memorable experience. From world-class shows to thrilling rides and great shopping, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is in a bustling retail, restaurant, and entertainment area of San Antonio. Activities include roller coasters, themed rides, live shows, and fireworks after sunset. Guests can break for fair food and adult beverages or cool off in splash zones and wave pools. “Entertainment, catering, signage, and swag can all be handled by Six Flags, leaving nothing for event planners to do except have fun, too,” Ramey says.
Planners with events in the Dallas-Fort Worth area can book Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington, which is only 15 minutes from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. “Six Flags Texas parks deliver meeting locations that can’t be found anywhere else,” Ramey says. “Six Flags’ on-site event planners handle everything. There are both indoor and outdoor venues for meetings and presentations, and unlimited fun once the work is done. There are even overthe-top options including incorporating custom messaging throughout the park, special shoutouts during our live shows, fireworks, custom music, and more. The possibilities are endless, and the memories will last forever!”
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Booking your event at a hotel but want an impressive group outing? We picked three more Texas parks that are close to popular venues and hotel options.
Epic Waters in Grand Prairie has 12 water slides, a surfing simulator, and an arcade. Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Arlington DFW South and Staybridge Suites Dallas–Grand Prairie. “Epic Waters is uniquely positioned to offer meeting and event planners a weatherproof event from start to finish,” says Shelly Leonard, Epic Waters’ director of sales. “We are honored to have just been named a top three indoor water park in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice 2023 Travel Awards and are ready to plan your next ‘splashtastic’ epic event.” epicwatersgp.com
Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Galveston stretches 26 acres with water coasters, a complex river system, and whitewater rapids. The park is within walking distance from Moody Gardens Galveston Island Hotel, Spa & Convention Center, so guests can enjoy an exciting day at the water park on either side of the event. For smaller events, several hotels nearby offer meeting space, including Hampton Inn & Suites Galveston. schlitterbahn.com
Waco Surf water park has reopened in the heart of Texas, offering water slides, multiple food and bar options, and of course, surf lessons. The park is located just outside the Waco city limits but has on-site accommodations at the Surf Hotel for a small group or rentable cabins and houses along Cable Park Lake. Ideal for a retreat, the water park at Waco Surf will challenge guests on the waves and reward them with a relaxing getaway. wacosurf.com
The meetings and events industry embraces inclusive environments for employees and visitors
By Natalie Compagno
he spirit of hospitality is to provide a welcoming reception to guests. It’s a smile, greeting, or gesture that starts a vacation or friendship, and it involves making people feel comfortable, appreciated, and respected while being mindful of their needs and preferences. As critical as this mindset is, meetings professionals are dialing in on a more socially powerful concept: diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Greg DeShields, executive director at Tourism Diversity Matters in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is one of these industry pros. He oversees his organization’s four primary pillars: apprenticeship, workforce development, research and data, and DEI training for tourism organizations. DeShields says the COVID-19 pandemic allowed the industry to “look at where [it was] around the issues of social justice and [its] commitments to DEI.” With increased travel stimulating the economy, he says, “We see diverse travelers who have high expectations about feeling included and welcome.”
The issues of stereotypes and unconscious biases are still prevalent, he adds, so it’s important that DEI is top of mind—but this can be a challenge for event planners. Step one toward the solution? Be intentional and ask questions. “There is what’s called a diversity wheel,” DeShields explains. “There [are] about 19 different dimensions of diversity. While most would perceive it to be race and ethnicity, the reality is that it could be people who are disabled, veterans, seniors, etc. We want to look at what makes us all diverse and what makes us all unique.”
Being intentional begins with choosing the right destination, and it is a crucial decision in the planning process. It’s essential for hosts to select a city that prioritizes inclusivity and safety to ensure attendees feel comfortable and welcome.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, prides itself on being one of those places. For instance, the Visit Milwaukee website promotes its “Unique Unites” slogan, which spotlights cultural events and places. Groups can support Native American-owned businesses or discover more about Milwaukee’s Asian, German, Pacific Islander, or Jewish heritages, among others.
Additionally, the Wisconsin Center, a convention and exhibition facility in downtown Milwaukee, is committed to inclusivity for guests with physical disablities and has made accessibility and inclusion its top priority in its $456 million expansion project—anticipated to be completed in May 2024. The center will have quiet rooms, mother’s rooms, and dedicated gender-neutral restrooms. Importantly, the Wisconsin Center implemented a self-mandated minority-owned
business inclusion plan to maximize employment of the local workforce and partner with diverse businesses (including vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers) during complex development. The companies that collaborated on this project consisted of 25% minority-owned businesses.
But these efforts don’t stop in Wisconsin—many other cities across the country prioritize DEI within city limits, tourism organizations, and event spaces. One such destination is Visalia, California, which is the first Certified Autism Destination in the United States. Hospitality staff in the city are trained to accommodate the needs of autistic visitors, and Visit Visalia provides sensory guides with photographs and descriptions. Additionally, it participates
which discreetly informs venues that someone in the group has a disability.
Also on the West Coast, Tacoma, Washington, shows its solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement through the BLM Mural Project, celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. The mural, located at Tollefson Plaza downtown, was created by a group of Black multidisciplinary artists, and it’s a block away from the main meeting and convention space in the hotel district.
In Georgia, Elyse Harris, director of sales at Visit Athens, emphasizes the importance of reflecting the community’s diversity in events. “Being a college town, Athens is its own melting pot with visitors, students, locals, and professionals crossing paths every day,” Harris says. “We strive to bring events to Athens that reflect the diversity of our community, whether it’s by working with meeting planners, highlighting diverse local businesses on Visit Athens’ blog, or ensuring our marketing photography is inclusive.” Athens hosts the annual Big Hearts talent show, a fundraiser for Extra Special People Inc., and recently the A Libris conference, which featured gender-neutral bathroom signage. The Classic Center, a convention center and performing arts theater in downtown Athens, offers accessible seating, wheelchairs, and assisted-listening devices, and service animals are also welcome.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is another example of a destination that is creating an inclusive community for its visitors. The city is home to one of the first convention and visitors bureas in the nation
to establish a dedicated division, PHL Diversity, to highlight the destination as a diverse, equitable, and inclusive location for meetings and events, says Gregg Caren, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau. For the last 30 years, the CVB has connected planners with local businesses, suppliers, and community leaders who share the same values of inclusion and can also assist in the facilitation of engaging programming for visitors and locals alike. “[PHL Diversity is] focused on promoting diversity in both the events they host and the economic benefits to the communities they serve,” he says.
To ensure everyone receiving a room key feels welcome and seen, be sure to research properties before booking for a group and make sure the accomodation has DEI practices in place. Language, cultural understanding, diversity in staffing, and accessibility are all crucial factors.
International hotel chains can, and do, lead the way for their franchises and properties to support DEI. For example, through programs, training, and curated events, Marriott International Inc. is among the most respected leaders in inclusive and mindful tourism. “We believe inclusion matters, and [that] diverse viewpoints and open dialogue strengthen communities,” says Maruiel Perkins-Chavis, vice president of global diversity equity and inclusion for Marriott. “That is why we are committed to creating an environment where guests, associates, suppliers, owners, customers, and our key stakeholders feel valued and included.”
One Marriott hotel devoted to these efforts is the W Seattle. It was the first hotel in the Washington city to raise the pride flag on the building above its Fourth Avenue entrance, and it remains there today. In addition, it has been the headquarters hotel for Seattle PrideFest since 2007 and is a sponsor of the Seattle Queer Film Festival. “It’s important to me that W Seattle stays connected to the LGBTQ+ community,” says Greg Campbell, director of marketing and sales. “Through our actions we say, ‘We see you, we support you, and we’ll always be a safe place for you to stay or work.’”
The W Seattle’s atmosphere also captures this sentiment. Morgan Zion, resident local artist, painted a vibrant, multiethnic mural near the lobby. Faces—an entire floor of guest rooms with unique portraits also by Zion—launched as well. These gender-neutral, multicultural personalities are based on people she
has met, and the portraits dole out hip recommendations of sites to visit in the distinct neighborhoods they represent with a scan of a QR code.
Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown in Texas concurs. “As a society, we are becoming more and more aware of each other’s different backgrounds and cultures,” says Humberto Fermo, general manager. “When guests see our hotel is comprised of a collection of different people from various backgrounds, they feel welcome to be their unique selves,” he says, adding that customer-facing communication through marketing and other verbal or written language can shift an attendee’s perception about the venue and its staff.
Establishing this sense of effective communication with staff members and visitors is of primary focus for Miraval Resorts and Spas in Tuscon, Arizona. To address this, the hotel recently teamed up with a psychologist, Alfiee Breland-Noble, to raise awareness about DEI and self-care through a series of retreats and colleague sessions. “When people feel like they belong, their mental health improves,” Breland-Noble says. “This is why creating safe and welcoming spaces for people of diverse backgrounds is critical for the meetings and groups field.”
It’s essential to acknowledge and respect Indigenous peoples, their practices, and their long relationship with the land, which predates the establishment of the United
States by centuries. One way to achieve DEI in your practice and shape a layered experience is to immerse your group in Native American art and traditions when visiting areas with a rich culture or history.
For example, start by experiencing the natural beauty of the land in a place like Greater Palm Springs, California, where one can set up a hiking tour in the Indian Canyons, part of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation, or book a ranger-led interpretive hike of Tahquitz Canyon to see rock wall art from nearly 1,600 years ago. A visit to the Cabazon Cultural Museum in Indio or the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza in Palm Springs is highly recommended, along with viewing permanent collections of Native American art at the Palm Springs Art Museum.
To the north, the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel in Worley, Idaho, has a Cultural Tourism program. Intimate, dynamic, and often sold out, these tours, classes, and activities are moments of wonder. Make Your Own Pendleton Moccasins is a popular class, while cultural dinners, blessings, and canoe tours are also sought after.
Another way to recognize Indigenous peoples is to make a verbal or written Land Acknowledgement for your event. This formal statement honors Indigenous peoples as traditional stewards of the land, and is a step in demonstrating solidarity and a commitment to social justice and racial equity.
Catering is a delicious way to also integrate culture and diversity. Theo Martin of Island Soul in Seattle, Washington, infuses diversity in his Caribbean cuisine. “I want to bring the variety of flavors to my food,
like the variety of cultures on the islands—Asian, Indian, French, British, African—and in our country.” The Black Lives Matter movement sparked a surge of interest in and opportunity for his catering services for corporate retreats and other events. Island Soul is now expanding into a second iteration—Arleana’s in Kirkland—in honor of his mother, who hosted all kinds of people at her home each Sunday. “Food is a language—it brings pleasure and bridges gaps—just like art and music,” Martin emphasizes.
Another important culinary consideration is respecting the dietary needs and religious preferences of guests who will be dining. It’s a good idea to be familiar with caterers who source locally and can serve up, for example, halal, gluten-free, kosher, vegan, and vegetarian, while also addressing food allergies.
As we go to print, there are laws being put into place around the country limiting the freedom and rights of individuals and organizations that can and will impact the hospitality industry. The U.S. House of Representatives-passed Parents Bill of Rights Act, and Florida’s Individual Freedom Act, Stop Woke Act, and “Don’t Say Gay” Act infringe on DEI maturity in the corporate and leisure sectors. DeShields understands this shifting landscape. “That’s why the work that we do with Tourism Diversity Matters is so important—because we can provide answers and insights around this subject, especially now that it evolves. I feel most proud about this. Whether I’m speaking to someone in Montana, Boston, or Los Angeles, we are a resource for DEI aspects in all sectors of our industry.”
Texas has 136 public and private colleges and universities, and they contribute to the dynamic culture of the entire state. For planners, campuses offer creative event venues and opportunities for attendees to participate in the nearby activities. The energy of a youthful population, proximity of cultural destinations, and convenience of retail shops and restaurants in the campus neighborhoods only add to the exciting environment and boost the energy level for an event. Even in the summer, a college or university is a fun and fascinating place to gather.
Planners will find an array of choices that can meet the needs of organizations and inspire new experiences for attendees. Texas has six state university systems, and Texas Meetings + Events has chosen a venue in each one that gets high marks for the right mix of location and amenities.
The Texas A&M University system consists of 19 different campuses, but its main campus is in College Station where planners will find multiple venues and rustic local hangouts. If a large event venue is needed, the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center fits the bill with its convenient location on campus near restaurants, bars, and entertainment. The property includes a large glass building with a modern design, standing out against some of the historic buildings on campus.
The center offers over 35,000 square feet of International Association of Conference Centers-approved meeting and event space, and an 8,300-square-foot ballroom. Directly across from Kyle Field, which plays host to the university’s football games, the venue has ample self parking and valet parking at the hotel entrance. A rooftop pool, continuous break stations, and the hotel restaurant that serves Texas-inspired cuisine will keep guests fed and happy between daytime sessions. Planners can book a block among the attached hotel’s 250 rooms and suites.
Texas A&M is well known throughout the state as a school steeped in tradition and what students and alumni call “Aggie Spirit.” The maroon-andwhite color scheme of the hotel mirrors the school pride buzzing around campus. Visitors will be welcomed with the official Texas A&M greeting of “Howdy!” and, in honor of the school mascot, Reveille, the hotel is dog-friendly.
Texas State University in San Marcos is the largest of the Texas State campuses. The small city of San Marcos is centered on the scenic Guadalupe River and is a destination that works well for large groups and conferences. However, for a group under 50 people, the city has a quaint historic venue unlike anything else in the area. The Charles S. Cock House Museum is just west of the Texas State campus and was the home of pioneer and former mayor of San Marcos, Charles S. Cock. The house was built in 1867 with local wood and limestone and is the oldest remaining residential building in the city. It has received the Texas Historical Marker medallion and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. The city completed a restoration of the building in 1976.
The house is now a museum that displays period furniture and collectibles going back to the 18th century, as well as family items from the Cock family. The Greek Revival structure has three rooms, a full-size kitchen, and a front sitting porch. Tables can be configured for various needs.
Located just a few blocks from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, the Overton Hotel and Conference Center is busy most of the year, but especially during football season. “Texas Tech University is more than just our neighbor,” says Shannon Baker, director of sales and marketing. “We are partners in a range of academic programs, as well as the official hotel of Texas Tech Athletics and Texas Tech Alumni Association. This makes us the preferred hotel of students, parents, alumni, and faculty.”
Guests can easily access the Texas Tech main campus and stadium, as well as the School of Law and Health Sciences Center, from the Overton Hotel. “Location is prime on the list for planners,” Baker says. “We offer a complimentary airport shuttle, and our 15-story hotel offers great views of Lubbock and Texas Tech’s campus. The hotel is [within] walking distance to many shops, night
life, and restaurants.”
Over 20,000 square feet of meeting and event space is available, including a ballroom and several smaller meeting rooms. Planners can request custom catering menus and themed decor. If you want a true Texas Tech event, incorporate the university’s colors of red and black—the event staff
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“ Texas Tech University is more than just our neighbor. We are partners in a range of academic programs, as well as the official hotel of Texas Tech Athletics and Texas Tech Alumni Association.”
–Shannon Baker Director of Sales and Marketing, Overton Hotel and Conference CenterGuest room at Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center in College Station
keeps a large stock of decor and linens in those colors at the ready. The hotel also gets several requests for tailgatethemed buffets and events. “If you’re ever around for a home football game weekend, take advantage of our Wreck ’Em Alley,” Baker says. “This event is open to hotel guests and locals alike.” The game day celebration features live music, patio games, cash bars, and customized foods. The pregame starts three hours prior to kickoff, and the event continues after the game is over.
Houston is the largest city in Texas and boasts a rich history of oil production and a robust business culture. The University of Houston is relatively new as a public university compared to other college systems in Texas, only founded in 1977. However, there are well-established options for hosting a business meeting or corporate event nearby. If plans call for an event on campus, gather at the Hilton University of Houston.
Access is made easy for visitors as the venue is just 10 minutes from William P. Hobby Airport and 3 miles from downtown Houston. The hotel offers over 25,000 square feet of meeting and event space spanning ballrooms, conference rooms, private dining rooms, and an indoor amphitheater. The 150-room property is an extension of the university’s Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership and allows students to learn with hands-on experience. Amenities include a catering team, an American bistro, and a sports lounge.
Additionally, guests receive free access to the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center, where they can play basketball, enjoy rock climbing, swim at the pool, and take a fitness class. When visitors want to shop or attend a sporting event, the Galleria Mall and Minute Maid Park are 15 minutes away.
The University of North Texas (UNT) campus is in Denton, a small city north of Dallas-Fort Worth. The city offers a thriving music scene, and the quaint town square is a lively gathering place for locals and visitors in the know. For meetings and events, the Gateway Banquet and Conference Center offers a 28,000-square-foot multilevel facility at the western entrance to the UNT campus.
The Gateway Center is an integral part of the Department of Hospitality & Tourism Management and is used by UNT faculty and students as a teaching facility. With meeting rooms, outdoor spaces, and banquet services, the venue offers multiple options for planners. Up-to-date audiovisual equipment and an experienced support staff help events run smoothly.
Inside, the Club at Gateway Center is a student-run restaurant and another part of the educational experience for the school’s Hospitality Management program, serving as a training environment for students enrolled in restaurant operations courses. Through the coursework and interactions with diners, students gain insight into fine-dining service techniques, management skills,
financial and marketing practices, menu planning, and food production. The restaurant offers a casual setting for visitors and can accommodate large parties.
The University of Texas (UT) system was founded in 1876 and is the oldest in the state. Recently, U.S. News and World Report ranked the UT flagship school in Austin as the 10th best public university in the country. The city of Austin is growing exponentially and attracts visitors from around the world. The UT Austin campus offers a peaceful oasis with large oak trees and limestone buildings with red tile roofs.
The AT&T Hotel and Conference Center sits at the heart of the UT Austin campus. “Our hotel boasts 85,000 square feet in 53 meeting rooms, allowing us to work with groups in customizing the perfect combination of event flow, proximity,
and value for them,” says Josh Delgado, director of sales and marketing. Options include a 300-seat auditorium, a 15,000-square-foot ballroom, and a 10,000-square-foot ballroom. “Being tied to the University of Texas at Austin presents groups with unique opportunities to enhance their event programming,” Delgado says. “Guest speakers can include faculty and professors who are subject matter experts to provide knowledge and insight, along with genuine care for a meaningful experience. Our location on the university campus also gives groups an interesting neighborhood to explore. We’re in downtown Austin yet can give visitors space to refresh. Attendees have the option of walking around the campus, to the Texas Capitol, and to multiple neighboring museums in their downtime.”
For energetic, convenient, and professional events, choosing a venue at one of Texas’ colleges or universities will offer attendees an A-plus experience they won’t forget.
heritagesanmarcos.org
hilton.com
meetattexas.com
overtonhotel.com
texasamhotelcc.com
unt.edu
The National Juneteenth Museum is coming to the Fairmount/Southside Historic District of Fort Worth. The 50,000-square-foot building will serve as the epicenter for education, preservation, and celebration of the Juneteenth holiday. The museum is an extension of the legacy of Fort Worth activist Opal Lee, who is known as “the grandmother of Juneteenth.” Lee has long championed the holiday, and her petition to make Juneteenth a national holiday garnered over a million signatures. In 2021, President Joe Biden signed the bill to designate the holiday. The museum is expected to open on June 19, 2025, and will host exhibits and events focused on the African American journey to freedom throughout U.S. history.
nationaljuneteenthmuseum.org
–Mitzuko Byres» COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
Houston NASA/Clear Lake completed a renovation of its guest rooms, public spaces, and meeting rooms in April. The hotel’s 124 guest rooms were updated with new carpeting, furniture, artwork, wall coverings, and draperies, providing a fresh and modern look. The guest rooms also feature the latest in-room entertainment technology, allowing guests to stream their devices through large high-definition TVs. Three updated meeting rooms offer 1,600 square feet of meeting space.
The four-story hotel is located near a variety of restaurants and is the only hotel within walking distance to the NASA Johnson Space Center’s Space Center Houston. Guests also have easy access to popular attractions such as the Kemah Boardwalk, Big League Dreams, downtown Houston, the Houston Theater District, and the Houston Museum District. –Mitzuko Byres
courtyard.marriott.com
Passionate about sustainability and eco-friendliness in wine culture, Sixty Vines has implemented several practices that prioritize the environment—including the use of a 60-tap wine system that offers the closest “from-the-barrel” tasting experience in the hospitality industry. The system stores wine in reusable kegs, which results in less packaging and waste. One keg can hold the equivalent of 26 wine bottles and be refilled up to 1,500 times throughout its lifetime.
Recently, the restaurant partnered with Ridge Vineyards in Cupertino, California, an iconic producer of premium wines, to debut Ridge’s Three Valleys Red Zinfandel on tap. This marks the first time the winemaker has offered a wine on tap, and it is an exclusive variety offered at all Sixty Vines locations. Ridge Vineyards shares Sixty Vines’ commitment to sustainability, and the company believes in pure winemaking practices that rely on natural yeast and letting the terroir define the wine. Ridge Vineyards is also the largest grower of organically certified grapes in Sonoma County and in the Santa Cruz Mountains American Viticultural Area.
Sixty Vines has locations in Plano, Dallas, Houston, and The Woodlands, in addition to restaurants in Florida and Tennessee. With its commitment to sustainability and dedication to quality, Sixty Vines has become a popular destination for Texas wine lovers who care about the environment. sixtyvines.com –Mitzuko
Byres» TEXAS HAS rich cultural heritage, much of which is reflected in the many festivals held throughout the warmer months of the year. From a citywide fiesta to a celebration of the mosquito, there is a festival for every group to experience.
Fiesta San Antonio is one of the largest festivals in the state, reaching 3.5 million visitors over 11 days in April. Attractions include flower float parades, river parades, live music, cultural events, street food, and a reenactment of the Battle of San Jacinto during the Texas Revolution in 1836. Then in May, attend the Kerrville Folk Festival. Groups enjoy 18 days and nights of original music from songwriters of national and international acclaim in a family-friendly environment at a Texas Hill Country ranch.
Summer is loved in Texas, and the Texas Route 66 Festival in June is a great way to see more of the state. Events along the east-west route include classic car shows, bus tours, cattle drives, parades, and music festivals. If you’re meeting near Houston, head to the Great Texas Mosquito
Festival each July in Clute and take part in a barbecue and fajita cook-off, paintball tournament, karaoke, and the Mosquito Chase Run.
If fairs are your favorite, check out the Gillespie County Fair, which started in 1886 and is the oldest continuous county fair in Texas. The four-day event opens each August and offers rides, pie and
quilt contests, horse racing, craft markets, and an antique tractor show. Or save your appetite for the State Fair of Texas. This three-week event in Dallas has fried foods, a massive carnival, art and craft competitions, an auto show, a livestock show, and the 55-foot Big Tex statue waving howdy. –Mitzuko
ByresKaren Bippert was promoted by Visit San Antonio to associate director of destination experience after serving as a successful member of the destination experience team for over five years. In her more than 25-year career, she has worked with multiple San Antonio businesses, including SeaWorld San Antonio, San Antonio Imax, Advantage Rent a Car, and the Buckhorn Museum.
Colleen Buchanan was promoted to senior sales manager handling the Northeast market for Visit San Antonio with a focus on large corporate events. Buchanan began her career as a City of San Antonio event coordinator at the Alamodome and Henry B. González Convention Center, then joined Visit San Antonio as a destination experience manager followed by successive promotions within the destination sales team.
Visit San Antonio named Caroline Gardner the director of mid-Atlantic sales. With over 25 years of experience in the convention sales industry, Gardner will manage the organization’s Washington, D.C., office. Prior to joining Visit San Antonio, she worked with Convention News Television and Hosts Global, selling their services to association customers in the D.C. market. She will now be responsible for developing and maintaining strategic account relationships within the association and corporate markets.
Internally, Visit San Antonio promoted Néstor Núñez to director of corporate sales–citywide. Núñez will oversee Texas and the West Coast for corporate events of over 1,000 rooms on peak. He brings 14 years of experience selling San Antonio to nearly every small- to midsized geographical market in the United States. –Amy Durham
The Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel opened its reimagined Zen Pool + Bar to help visitors stay—and look—cool in the Texas summer sun. More than just lounge chairs and a bar and grill, the event deck offers poolside cabanas that each seat six guests and include dedicated cabana service and complimentary bottled water. A VIP cabana is also available and can accommodate 10 guests with add-ons like a fruit platter, sparkling wine and fresh juices, and Renaissance-branded swag.
The 304-room hotel is within walking distance of the mixed-use Plano Legacy West lifestyle development. Open from April to October, Zen Pool + Bar will feature live music by local DJs on Saturdays, as well as pop-up retail and shopping from nearby Legacy West stores. Guests can enjoy Asian and Texan specialties from the on-site restaurant, Whiskey Moon. The Giddy Up is a flight of traditional, top shelf, and jalapeño-infused margaritas served with chops, house-made dips, and brisket sliders. The Poolside Party includes a selection of 12 beers served with Thai-chiliglazed wings, sliders, and chips with house-made dips.
“Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West offers a fabulous respite in one of the state’s most popular cultural and business hubs, Plano’s Legacy West,” says John Klukan, director of sales and marketing. “With over 50 retail stores, eateries, and restaurants, [the hotel lets] visitors do it all in our neighborhood.”
The hotel boasts 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, and the pool and event deck give planners an outdoor venue with a view. “The third-floor space offers space for private events with room for up to 300 people to enjoy connecting with friends and colleagues,” says Klukan, “especially at sunset when our deck provides sprawling views of the Plano area all the way to downtown Dallas’ iconic skyline.” –Amy Durham marriott.com
The Texas Travel Alliance held the Unity Conference and 33rd annual Texas Travel Industry Unity Dinner & Silent Auction at the Austin Convention Center this past February. The dinner included a keynote speech by Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson and was followed the next day by Converge on the Capitol, an event to highlight the impact of the travel industry on the state. “[The] Unity Dinner is a great example of the importance of in-person meetings and events to collaborate, celebrate, and advocate for the travel and tourism industry in Texas,” says Elizabeth Eddins, executive director of Visit The Woodlands, Texas, one of the many organizations in attendance.
1. Secretary of State Jane Nelson
2. Mike Pistana, Glen Carlton, Jeff Pritts, Erin Carter, and Gerard Hudspeth
3. The domed rotunda ceiling at the Texas State Capitol 4. Hope Stokes, Kashion Smith, Sherman Bass, Angela Knapp Eggers, and Freda Powell
5. Guests looking at items during the Unity Dinner Silent Auction
6. Al DeBerry, Erika Boyd, and Justin Holland 7. Brad Bailey, Elizabeth Eddins, and Nick Wolda 8. Guests at the Unity Dinner 2023
To have your meeting or event photos featured, contact adurham@greenspring.com
Imagine a world where “can’t” doesn’t exist. Imagine all you can do in Arlington, Texas. Located just 15 minutes from DFW International airport, Arlington o ers everything you need to make your next event memorable, from our diverse collection of flexible venues to our growing hotel inventory — and a CVB team that excels at turning Arlington’s unique assets into experiences that make attendees say, “Wow!”
Arlington is also growing by the day. Our new 888-room luxury hotel and Arlington Convention Center is opening in 2024. So whether you’re planning for an event in the next few months or next few years, Arlington is ready. Email us at sales@arlington.org, and let’s talk about what we CAN DO for you.
What do you get when you combine a dental hygienist, an emergency room radiologist, and a food truck? Crowds, that’s what.
Boardwalk Bites food truck co-owners Caitlin Pitalo and Cody Grayson didn’t work in the food industry, but they had a dream. They started with selling kettle corn from a booth at festivals and fairs in 2016. Eventually, they bought a food truck and expanded the menu to carnival fare—think foot-long corn dogs and funnel cake. They rolled the truck out to festivals, birthdays, and block parties—until the pandemic shut down the events industry. “We had to pivot and landed a permanent spot at the Allen Premium Outlet Mall,” Pitalo says. When event bookings finally picked back up, the first truck remained at the mall, and a new second truck hit the road. Pitalo and Grayson, along with their three kids, worked the trucks until they had to hire staff to keep up. “It grew much quicker than we could have imagined,” Pitalo says.
Today, they’ve done repeat business with AT&T, Bank of America, Coca-Cola, Fidelity, PepsiCo, Sherwin Williams, and Southwest Airlines. Fresh-squeezed lemonade and chicken baskets are big hits at product launches and team-building events. When catering, Pitalo says clear communication of expectations, timelines, and logistics goes a long way toward a successful event—which relies on collaboration. “Everyone wins in the end when a team approach is taken,” she says.
Unfortunately, the pandemic wasn’t their last major challenge. The food truck was open at the Allen Premium Outlet Mall when a mass shooting took place on May 6. Employees and two of Pitalo’s children were working. They ran to safety into a fortified storage room, and, while grateful that none of her team or family were hurt, she is heartbroken for so many others.
For the food truck, Pitalo says, it has “been a devastating setback.” Their ability to do business at the mall is gone for the foreseeable future. “We are still treading water, exploring options, negotiating contracts, and attempting to stay afloat with our second food truck,” she says. “Facing these obstacles definitely has fostered resiliency and adaptability.” Moving forward, the family will do what they’ve done before: pivot and change course in the face of the unexpected, until they come out on top.
BY AMY DURHAMboardwalkbites.com
Abilene o ers a unique blend of Texas tradition and innovation, making it the perfect destination for meetings that leave a lasting impression. Its central location, historic downtown, and experienced sta ensure your event will be a success.
Don’t just host a meeting, make history in Abilene. Scan the QR code to start planning your next event.
Meet and greet at Belt Buckle Distillery, where West Texas spirits are the business of the day.
For truly remarkable meetings and events, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa invites you to savor every moment while we curate every detail. Boasting over 76,000 square feet of luxuriously-appointed meeting and event space, attendees will bask in the panoramic views that surround the hilltop property, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor, making it the ideal place to host your next event.
OmniHotels.com/BartonCreek
