More Than Meets The Eye

More Than Meet

ts The Eye

With meetings and events beginning to ramp up once again, many planners are looking for venues and experiences for attendees that go above and beyond in terms of unique spaces, unexpected offerings, and opportunities for out-of-the-box experiences, and one-of-akind settings.

Such venues can be found all throughout the region, sometimes in unexpected settings or in properties that offer more than at first meets the eye.

In the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, Kalahari Resort and Conventions has more than 200,000-square feet of meeting and exhibit space, on-site audio-visual, a worldclass culinary team, activities for all ages, and an event management team that works to customize each event based on the clients' goals and vision for their program.

From its custom-crafted artwork on the convention center’s walls to furniture in its guest rooms, recorded music from the streets of Cape Town and original crafts as guest souvenirs, Kalahari has a passion for sharing the beauty of Africa with its resort guests. Kalahari Resorts and Conventions also is committed to giving back to the people, places and cultures that have inspired its creative style and setting through fostering entrepreneurship and collaborating with a variety of business and philanthropic partners.

One very unique characteristic of the resort is that its entire convention center is situated on a single level, allowing for easy flow through areas for networking and breaks, as well as seamless transitions between events and an easy to navigate space.

Whether planning custom menus and doing tastings directly with the property’s culinary team or theming meeting space around an

event's goals, Kalahari prides themselves on going above and beyond expectations so that event attendees can have an amazing experience.

As an example of their creative approach, Kalahari recently hosted a group whose vision for their event was a “Through the Decades” theme. The property’s team coordinated to bring in vehicles, décor and accessories that showcased each decade that was to be part of the theme. A cover band was brought in for the evening to play theme appropriate music, and decade-themed drink specials were included - all organized by Kalahari’s on-site event managers.

“It was a huge hit among their attendees who had a vast range in ages,” notes Stephani L. Bann, CMP, assistant director of sales, Kalahari Resort and Convention Center, Pocono Mountains.

Another great venue with some unexpected offerings is Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City, NJ. The casino property is widely known as the largest hotel conference complex from Baltimore to Boston with two 50,000-square foot ballrooms divisible into multiple smaller breakouts that provide ultimate flexibility.

This conference space is connected to the hotel and was built purposefully for larger conferences. It offers a dedicated kitchen with an excellent chef able to customize menus to suit any budget or taste. In 2022, a large capital investment is being made into the room product of the resort, as well as the restaurant offerings on-site.

Among the new food and beverage concepts coming to Harrah’s Atlantic City are Nobu, Purple Zebra, Hash House A Go Go, Guy Fieri Chicken and more, adding to existing concepts such as Gordon Ramsay Steak and Il Verde.

“Our sales people are located around the country in your destination,” notes Steve van der Molen, vice

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“A favorite always seems to be the Ocean Place Conference Center in Long Branch, NJ. Its ballroom size allows lots of flexibility, and the beach view alone is a reason to attend,” says Ronnye Schreiber, CEO, PlanetConnect.

president, meeting operations - Atlantic City for Caesars Entertainment. “They know the properties well and can not only check availability and quote rates, but be a great resource to help you plan an impactful conference. Our catering and convention services managers are knowledgeable and will help you with all of your needs from transportation from the airport to VIP experiences to meetings setup, catering and audio-visual providing a one-stop experience... We believe in partnering with our customers and understanding their objectives to meet their needs.”

In addition to the state-of-the-art Waterfront Conference Center, the property also boasts unique offerings like the Pool at Harrah’s, which is very popular for large opening and closing receptions, and it offers both in-door and outdoor space. “The theater is another option for a general session if more space is needed. Restaurant buyouts are common, as are dine-arounds. The catering and convention services team is flexible and will work with you to provide a memorable program,” notes van der Molen.

The Lancaster County Convention Center boasts flexible and expansive meeting and expo space of over 90,000-square feet to accommodate groups from 10 or 5,000 people, and everything in between. The convention center also has

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Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) Certification Accreditation, which is the highest standard of health safety protocols for conference venues – one of only two accredited convention centers in Pennsylvania.

The center’s dedicated and experienced event planning team is always available to help make any event a seamless success. Connected to the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, everything planners may need for their meeting or event is available on-site, including hotel rooms, meeting space, and dining.

“The stacked layout of the Lancaster Convention Center’s largest meeting rooms (Freedom Hall, Commonwealth Ballroom, and Heritage Ballroom) is accessible by escalators, providing attendees with convenient and quick access throughout the building,” notes Hans Schreiber, director of sales and marketing, Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center. “The center also is located in the heart of downtown Lancaster – from its historic elegance to its location in the very center of a walkable, easygoing city, the Lancaster County Convention Center provides a unique and welcoming location for events and meetings.”

Within the walls of the Lancaster County Convention Center is a re"My experience at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philly as a director of events included finding fun ways to surprise guests, such as hidden galleries and special exhibits… My job and the events we hosted were constantly evolving," notes Kate Young, marketing events manager for Crossbeam.

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"River House at Odette’s in New Hope, PA offers excellent meeting space, as well as great food and service... for a team break, bikes are available to connect directly behind the hotel to a canal bike path for exploring. On-site, as a meeting perk, guests have access to a private rooftop bar and lounge with fantastic river views... All of their outdoor verandas also have built-in infrared ceiling heaters, so inclement weather is one less worry."

Terri M. Hegyi, director of meeting event management for ONE-CALL Concierge Specialist, OCS

markable site that reveals Lancaster County’s rich and varied history, giving meeting attendees a look into its historical significance and that of the surrounding area. Currently in development, the Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith Historic Site and Museum on this site will share the story of two remarkable Americans and the pivotal role that Lancaster and the surrounding region played in the operation of the Underground Railroad.

Commons on Vine is another unique offering at the convention center, as this room can be used in a variety of non-conventional, flexible and unexpected ways for entertaining attendees.

For those seeking additional unique experiences, the Lancaster County Convention Center is just steps from Lancaster Central Market, Fulton Theatre, Clipper Magazine Stadium (home of the Lancaster Barnstormers, part of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, a "partner league" of Major League Baseball), art galleries and dozens of memorable dining and beverage experiences. What’s more, within a 10-minute drive of the convention center, attendees can enjoy the beauty, heritage, history and culture of the Lancaster County countryside and visit local Amish Country.

Nestled on Independence Mall in the nation’s most historic square mile, the National Constitution Center is in the heart of Historic Philadelphia and boasts a breathtaking view of Independence Hall, where the U.S. Constitution was both drafted and signed.

The center offers a dramatic and dignified setting for any event with 40,000-square feet of functional event space that includes: the Grand Hall Overlook with its 60-foot ceiling and sweeping windows; flags of all 50 states, Washington, DC, five U.S. territories, and a majestic American flag; and a new 50-ton marble tablet engraved with the 45 words of the First Amendment to the Constitution.

Brûlée Catering, the National Constitution Center’s exclusive caterer, produces events of any scale with topnotch service, delectable cuisine and exquisite presentation. With a wide range of creative menus tailored to taste and budget, Brûlée’s team guides clients every step of the way. Additionally, the National Constitution Center can accommodate clients’ audio-visual needs in-house or through its exclusive on-site provider, Advanced Staging Productions, who offer a high level of technical expertise and attention to detail for each event.

But the National Constitution Center offers more than a spectacular event venue - its must-see exhibits and live performances both enlighten and entertain. The center’s acclaimed museum experiences include: Free-

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Must be 21 or older to wager or consume alcohol. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. dom Rising, a stirring, multimedia theatrical performance; The Story of We the People, an interactive exhibit that celebrates the Constitution’s legacy of freedom; Signers’ Hall, with 42 life-size bronze statues of the Founding Fathers; and both the Civil War and Reconstruction and The 19th Amendment exhibits.

Ross Traphagen, marketing manager for the Historic Hotel Bethlehem, notes that his property features world-class service, charming guest accommodations, elegantly appointed lobby and common areas, award-winning cuisine in its Tap Room and at 1741 on the Terrace, plus banquet and meeting facilities that include a new 5,000-square foot Executive Conference Center.

“We were named the #1 ‘Best Historic Hotel in America’ by USA

Today,” Traphagen exclaims. “We proudly continue the tradition of Bethlehem hospitality, which began on the site of our current hotel in 1741. This year, we also are celebrating our 100th Anniversary.”

Not only does the hotel offer historic beauty, but it is centrally located in Historic Bethlehem. “Experience downtown Bethlehem, as we are located on one of the ‘Top 10 Main Streets’ in the country, according to USA Today,” notes Traphagen. “Shops, restaurants and history are all right outside of our front door. Historic Moravian Bethlehem is on the U.S. Tentative List for World Heritage Designation due to the authentic colonial history that is here. Enjoy our elegant accommodations and meeting space, then step out and enjoy all Bethlehem has to offer.”

Not only is Bethlehem brimming with unique shopping, dining and history, but it also is known as the Christmas City. “During the holiday season, Bethlehem is full of beautiful decor, a live nativity, horse and carriage rides, and so much more. Bethlehem MusikFest is another popular event,” Traphagen adds.

Each of these destinations offers planners unique settings and creative opportunities for their attendees to appreciate and enjoy. Incorporating these special spaces and services into their event will provide guests with memorable and sometimes unexpected experiences that will garner rave reviews.

Better teamwork. Happier teams.

Guest Experiences: Food & Beverage

Restaurants, caterers, breweries, distilleries and wineries throughout the region are featuring special offers, new additions, tips and more. Here is a sampling of what is currently available or being planned for individuals and groups.

Di Bruno Bros.

Di Bruno is celebrating the one-year anniversary of their Wayne, PA location on May 13-15, 2022 with a full, interactive “Eat. Shop. Learn. Experience!” event that invites attendees to explore and enjoy all that Di Bruno Bros. has to offer. Free samplings of their gourmet cuisine are being offered for the event, including: Cinco Jotas Ibérico Ham; Petrossian Caviar and Sparkling Wine; Uplands Cheese Pleasant Ridge Reserve and Le Bon Magot Tomato Chutney; Eclat Chocolates and Di Bruno Bros. Rosé; Isgros Mini Cannoli; a Mimosa Truck and more.

The Di Bruno Bros. Wayne location features Bar Altimentari, Cafe Di Bruno, a Bottle Shop, Chef’s Counter, Pane Dolce, Di Bruno Bros. Catering, curbside pickup and more.

At Di Bruno’s Rittenhouse location in Philadelphia, a seat at Altimentari is a seat at their family table. Here, everything slows down, glasses clink in celebration, and each plate is savored with a passion. Altimentari means "to nourish," and Di Bruno Bros.’ goal is to nourish the appetite of their guests with a unique, casual dining experience of small plates, cheese and charcuterie, and Pizza alla Roma, and to nourish their spirits with seasonallyflavored spritz, creative cocktails, local beers and exclusive wines.

Enjoy Sunday in Center City and pop into Altimentari for an elevated brunch experience. Explore their daily offerings, as well as a selection of brunch dishes and cocktails that treat the senses to the finest ingredients and mouthwatering recipes.

Di Bruno Bros. has been part of the fabric of Philadelphia since 1939, sharing culinary discoveries from around the corner and around the world. Altimentari continues that legacy in every sip and every bite by featuring Di Bruno Bros. products at every turn, including handmade burrata and mozzarella, house-made sausages and focaccia, Sicilian extra virgin olive oil, and their famous sweet and salty black lava cashews.

Valley Forge Casino Resort

A full-amenity gaming and entertainment resort in King of Prussia, PA, Valley Forge Casino Resort opened Copper Whisk in March, a restaurant concept with an approachable, chef-driven take on breakfast and lunch, featuring classics and regionally inspired favorites.

Copper Whisk joins the following lineup of food and beverage offerings at the casino: Revolution Chop House (classic upscale steakhouse); Valley Tavern (casual American food); quick-service food court offerings like the Italian Market, Asian Noodle and Dunkin Donuts.

With an emphasis on breakfast and lunch service, Copper Whisk enhances culinary offerings on-site, and aims to serve early meals for gaming and hotel guests of the resort, as well to draw in new patrons looking for a casual restaurant or meeting destination.

“Valley Forge Casino Resort is a dynamic property with so much to offer, from gaming and sports betting to live entertainment and hotel accommodations. The dining experiences on property have always been one of our strong suits, but we were missing one key element: an option for those looking for a casual early meal,” proclaims Ron Bailey, vice president and general manager for Valley Forge Casino Resort. “Copper Whisk fills that void in our existing food programming, serving as a welcoming and familiar spot for out-of-town guests and Boyd’s loyalty program members, as well as a go-to meeting spot for locals within the greater King of Prussia area.”

Mohegan Sun Pocono

Three exciting new venues will officially debut in 2022 at Mohegan Sun Pocono in Wilkes-Barre, PA, the first of which opened in late April with an all-new outdoor terrace bar, Embers Terrace. This new offering is home to Adirondack-style seating, fire pits, live weekend entertainment, dining options, an outstanding drink menu and more.

Set to launch this summer in the old Bar Louie space will be The Hive Taphouse, equipped with a full dining menu, 20 beers on tap, a live music stage and its very own Topgolf Swing Suites.

“These capital improvements as part of Project Starlight represent some of the most thrilling enhancements that we have ever announced at Mohegan Sun Pocono,” said Anthony Carlucci, president and general manager of Mohegan Sun Pocono. “These offerings not only will bolster our live entertainment, but they also bring a relaxing and fun-filled outdoor experience, as well as an amazing Topgolf Swing Suite venue.”

By the end of this year, Carlucci added, all 238 of the property’s guest rooms will be completely renovated and upgraded, as well. “We’ve already modeled a couple of rooms so far and the difference is remarkable. We’re confident that our guests are really going to love it,” he noted.

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Steak 48

Offers Premier Private Dining Options for Gatherings and Celebrations of all Forms

Photo Credit: Rachel Rosenstein Photography

Jessica Kiefer,

Sales and Event Manager

Leo Barbuto,

General Manager

Let’s Talk Steak48 Philadelphia

What is the allure of Steakhouses for meetings?

• The diversity of the menu • Trends come and go but steakhouses appeal to everyone • Typically, the restaurants have a substantial blueprint including various sized private dining spaces • Seasoned/professional waitstaff • Quality & Consistent food • Controlled environments • Intimate and more conducive to discuss business • Dedicated Sales professionals to organize every detail of the events along with onsite management

Jessica, how did you get involved in this industry?

• I started in a Greek restaurant when I was 15 years old, tried my hand in the Corporate America but knew it wasn’t the right fit for me. Needed the controlled chaos and immersion of people which I perceive you can only find in event planning/restaurants. • Love that no day is ever the same • Nurturing personality, I like to take care of people and what better way besides feeding them amazing food, wining and dining.

Why Sales/Events vs. Operations?

• They somewhat go hand in hand, but I like the personal connection and the whole planning process. • I always treat my groups like I am welcoming them into my home. True hospitality! • I also get to meet so many people that I most likely otherwise would not….athletes, movie stars, musicians, politicians and key figures in our community that truly impacted my life. • Planning events is my true passion, each having different needs/personalities…a fun challenge to figure out.

visit www.steak48.com or call 215.552.4848

Lounge area, Potomac District Café and Market at Gaylord National Resort

Flexible Contracts | National Partnership Program In-House A/V | Catering Available

Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center

Gaylord National Resort opened its new Potomac District Café and Market in National Harbor, MD this March. The 12,000-square foot space, located in the lower Atrium, underwent an $8million renovation following the resort’s $64-million guestroom renovation, completed in July 2021. The new restaurant concept boasts a specialty coffee bar, lounge area, sunroom and wine and cocktail room. The wine room features a wide selection of the top-selling wine brands and varietals in America.

“Potomac District Café and Market has been designed to service large volumes of guests while providing high-quality fare,” said Dan McKeon, area general manager for Gaylord National Resort. “The café and market was created for both large convention groups as well as leisure guests and business travelers – making it easy to grab a quick drink or sit down and enjoy a meal in our beautiful garden Atrium.”

The sophisticated eatery will provide all-day meal offerings with a selection of over 100 different beers, spirits and bottles of wine and over 40 chef-prepared to-go gourmet selections. Boasting sleek and comfortable productivity areas with charging and plug-in capabilities, event planners hosting meetings at the convention hotel will be able to utilize this space to gather attendees for a post-meeting drink or happy hour with refreshments.

Gaylord National Resort soon will announce further restaurant renovations, continuing to uphold its reputation for offering state-of-the-art dining experiences for groups, events and leisure travelers.

Wildwoods Beverage Tourism

The Wildwoods, NJ offer a wide variety of locations for visitors to experience beverage tourism, including restaurants and eateries, as well as breweries, distilleries and nearby wineries. These favored Wildwoods landmarks embrace the local atmosphere by offering one-of-a-kind, Jersey Shore creations, and The Wildwoods provide the perfect setting to indulge with a unique seasonal beverage while savoring the fresh catch of the day amid breezy ocean air.

The restaurant renaissance that started years ago in Cape May has spilled over into the Wildwoods, and a growing number of premier restaurants are now located throughout the five-mile island. The Wildwoods’ upscale restaurants offer memorable surroundings, remarkable cuisine and attentive service. Outdoor dining overlooking the ocean, the bay or the inland waterway is another unique way to enjoy dining in the Wildwoods.

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The choice to be alcohol free seems to be surpassing being a trend and moving toward a lifestyle for so many, including myself. The reasons are endless as to why someone chooses not to drink. We feel it’s important to also offer non-alcoholic beverages other than soda and water for those wanting to abstain from alcohol but who still would like to either feel included around friends or at events, stay on track, or those who just miss the taste without the alcohol.”

FranksWine now offers barNA to go where we come to you to serve non-alcoholic cocktails at events and parties. Contact us for more information!

The spiritless old fashioned uses the Kentucky 74, a non-alcoholic spirits with a smooth finish, underpinned by familiar notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The non-alcoholic margarita uses Ritual tequila alternative as it’s main ingredient. The tequila alternative has a green pepper nose and a grassy body, tempered with a hint of rock salt and backed by a clean burn. It’s perfect for a classic margarita.

NA Margarita

• 1.5 oz Ritual Zero Proof Tequila Alternative • 1 oz DHOS Orange non-alcoholic liqueur • 3/4 oz Lily’s Lime Juice cordial (or fresh squeezed lime juice) • 1/4 oz Stirrings Simple Syrup

- Combine all ingredients into shaker and strain into glass of your choice with ice. - Garnish with a lime wedge.

Spiritless Old Fashioned

• 2 oz Kentucky 74 • 1/4 oz simple syrup • 2 dashes of ginger bitters • 1 dash of aromatic bitters

Build in a rocks glass and add ice.

Sage Catering

Most restaurants throughout the island offer a full selection of cocktails, craft beers and wines. Wine connoisseurs will find wine lists that reflect a wide selection of vineyards and vintages, including some excellent New Jersey-grown choices from area vineyards. A few restaurants even permit guests to bring their own choice of wines to enjoy with dinner.

A quick tour of the vineyards surrounding the Wildwoods illustrates that New Jersey lives up to its moniker as “The Garden State.” New Jersey’s southernmost region is an agricultural hub for wine cultivation. Rich farmland is home to acres of vineyards, from which grapes patiently transform into award-winning, handcrafted fine wines.

For cold brews, craft beer and growlers, in the heart of Wildwood, MudHen Brewing Company is the ideal location for sipping craft artisan brews only found here. Have a love for the distilling process or for the spirits the distilleries produce? Then visit the Lazy Eye Distillery in Wildwood.

Additional breweries, distilleries, and wineries in or near the Wildwoods include: 7 Mile Brewery in Rio Grande; Bucket Brigade Brewery in Cape May

Changing the way you think about catering

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Celebrations Catering Court House; Cape May Brewing Company (Rio Grande); COHO Brewing Co. (Cape May Court House); Cold Spring Brewery in Cape May; Gusto Brewing Company in North Cape May; Ludlam Island Brewery in Ocean View; Slack Tide Brewing Company in Clermont; Cape May Distillery (Cape May Court House); Nauti Spirits Distillery (Cape May); Cape May Winery and Vineyard (North Cape May); Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery (Rio Grande); Jessie Creek Winery (Cape May Court House); Natali Vineyards (Cape May Court House); Turdo Vineyards and Winery (Cape May); and Willow Creek Winery in West Cape May.

Celebrations Wedding Venue

“Having a knowledgeable team is one-way that Celebrations has been elevating the guest experience,” explains Catherine Geer, director of sales for Celebrations Wedding Venue in Bensalem, PA. This knowledge, along with building relationships and cultivating repeat business, has been instrumental to their overall success.

For one recent corporate breakfast meeting, the Celebrations team suggested working in a complete Italian feast along with traditional breakfast standards. “Attendees were thrilled with selections of prosciutto, cheeses, Cappuccino, and brioches” says Geer.

Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay, Cambridge, MD

CRAB CAKE RECIPE FROM HYATT REGENCY CHESAPEAKE BAY

INGREDIENTS: 1lb Fresh jumbo lump crab meat 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 Tablespoon Mayonnaise 3 ounces of Panko bread crumbs 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning Fresh parsley to taste

INSTRUCTIONS: Mix all ingredients and portion them into round balls. Press until 3/4-inch thick. Fry cakes in a hot skillet for 8-10 minutes or broil until golden brown.

Make crab cakes and cocktails at Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay, one of several new team building activities available at the resort.

Recipe courtesy: HyattRegencyChesapeakeBay.com Healthier eating and specialty diets are trending today, with smaller portion size and courses. “Flakier fishes, not shellfish, and airline chicken breasts are lighter fare and can be prepared in a healthier fashion without heavy sauces,” Geer notes. “Vegetables sauteed or grilled are a big hit.”

In the wake of the pandemic, there is a greater focus on fun, childhood comfort foods, as well, Geer observes. During the pandemic, people sought foods that made them feel good, and that trend continues.

With a clientele consisting of more multicultural groups, Geer notes that many are looking for both creativity and diversity of culinary items, which Celebrations incorporates into their menus. “We can start a sit-down dinner service for a table of ten who might work together virtually, but truly do not know each other well, and you can see the excitement brewing when a family-style platter is brought to the table and then is followed by individual entrée plates for the next course. The talk at the table brings everyone together.”

Lastly, think about publicizing your event or showing it off during or afterward. Photographers and videographers are two reliable ways. You also might consider inviting a social media expert to create Instagram stories and reels.

Follow these suggestions and you’ll be on your way to a successful event that guests will be talking about for years.

Sage Advice for Planning A Catered Event

The nice weather is finally here and there is no better time to plan your event. You may find yourself saying, “Where should I start?” or “This is so overwhelming.” Take a deep breath and think about breaking the event down into categories: venue, décor, food, music and social media.

At Sage Catering, we can assist you in not only creating a custom menu, but we partner with venues that can satisfy any need, whether it be an indoor space, an outdoor space, a barn or even a castle.

After choosing a venue, you will need to start thinking about design with items like linens, vintage furniture, lighting and, of course, branding. The simple addition of signs for signature drinks, a photobooth, or just to welcome guests can create that aesthetic you are looking to achieve. The Sage Catering team Small plate stations are a crowd-pleasing style in which guests can try different types of food while mingling. Some of the new trends are charcuterie grazing tables during cocktail hour and old-fashioned ice cream carts for dessert.

When selecting entertainment, keep in mind that they will set the mood for the event. Bands, DJs, quartets, guitarist and even mariachi bands are some options from which to choose.

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