Planning a memorable event involves meticulous attention to detail, and selecting the right venue is the most important first step. When it comes to hosting successful events, Hilton All-Inclusive stands out as a premier choice. With unparalleled locations and amenities, outstanding perks for event planners and a focus on sustainability through Meet with Purpose, Hilton’s All-Inclusive resorts offer comprehensive packages catering to every event planner’s needs.
Reason No. 1: Best-in-class Facilities and Amenities
Hilton’s All-Inclusive portfolio of properties offers a diverse mix of stunning resorts providing state-of-the-art event spaces complemented by first-rate amenities. Whether you’re organizing a corporate conference, wedding or special celebration, Hilton’s venues offer versatile settings equipped with cutting-edge technology and dedicated event staff to ensure a seamless gathering.
Moreover, the culinary offerings are second to none. The extensive on-property dining options at Hilton’s 15 all-inclusive resorts feature signature dishes and innovative beverages with options to please all. Beyond food and drink, Hilton resorts offer breathtaking views, rejuvenating spa services, fun recreational activities and exclusive entertainment options, all designed to enhance the overall experience for attendees.
Last but not least, event planners have the option to give their attendees an elevated experience at select Hilton All-Inclusive resorts by adding Enclave rooms to their group room blocks, opening the door to an even more extraordinary experience. Attendees can enjoy perks like private check-in and checkout, in-room welcome amenity, upgraded mini bar, access to the Enclave lounge, and much more.
Reason No.2: Valuable Rewards for Event Planners
Event planners who choose Hilton benefit from the exclusive Hilton Honors Event Planner program, which rewards them with Hilton Honors Points for hosting meetings, conferences, weddings and other special events at participating hotels worldwide. With this program, planners earn 2 Points for every $1 USD spent on guest rooms, meeting rooms and more on qualifying events at hotels within the Hilton portfolio.
Additionally, Hilton offers enticing incentives for multi-year bookings and allows planners to convert company-owned Honors points into event credits, providing flexibility and cost savings for upcoming events. This program not only adds value but also ensures that event planners receive valuable benefits for their loyalty to Hilton.
Sustainability is at the core of Hilton’s mission and operations. The Meet with Purpose program embodies Hilton’s dedication to responsible hospitality, offering event planners the opportunity to host environmentally conscious events that positively impact local communities through initiatives like carbon offsetting, food donation practices and impactful team-building experiences.
With Hilton’s More Means Más offer, when event planners book their next eligible group at participating All-Inclusive Resorts by December 31, 2024, the host hotel will offset the event’s carbon emissions, make a donation in the group’s honor to a local community nonprofit and invite the planner to select a signature F&B, entertainment or wellness experience for the attendees.
When planning an event with Hilton All-Inclusive, groups leave a positive impact on both the environment and the local community.
Hotel Dena, in Pasadena, California, welcomes a new partnership with Salas, a celebrated Mexican Chef. He will provide guests with a soulful Mexican culinary experience at the hotel’s restaurant, Agents Only. Salas gained widespread prominence after appearing on “Iron Chef: Mexico” and his restaurant, Amaranta, was awarded one of the best restaurants in Mexico by various publications, along with other awards and recognitions.
Romina Migliorini and Joe Derla
Romina Migliorini and Joe Derla, Signia by Hilton San Jose
Migliorini will serve as director of food and beverage, bringing an extensive hospitality background with a career that began with Walt Disney World in Orlando, rising through the ranks to become assistant director of food and beverage at Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort. She will now oversee all food and beverage operations at Signia by Hilton San Jose.
Derla takes on the role of executive chef, promoted from his earlier role as the opening team’s executive sous chef. He began his culinary journey at Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort and quickly progressed to overseeing banquets and eventually leading the culinary program at its onsite steakhouse, Kamuela Provision Company. He draws inspiration from Hawaii’s farm-to-table ethos, sustainability and locality.
Nathaniel Leonard
Nathaniel Leonard, Ashore Resort & Beach Club
Leonard is appointed as executive chef at Ashore Resort & Beach Club. He discovered his love for cooking at 14 while working as a dishwasher at a local restaurant in his hometown in Pennsylvania, and as an adult, moved through ascending roles from line cook to sous chef at Stiped Bass in Philadelphia. He worked in kitchens in New York City and Pennsylvania before opening his own restaurant, 208 Social, in Delaware.
Andre Blasczak
Andre Blasczak, The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa appoints Blasczak as executive chef. He brings an extensive hospitality experience to his role, in which he will spearhead and execute a creative space for on-site dining, where menus will blend both local and Caribbean flavors in a fine-dining atmosphere.
Michael Narciso
Michael Narciso, The Ranch
Narciso takes on the role of executive chef at The Ranch, in Hudson Valley. An advocate for healthy, nutrient-dense, plant-based cuisine, he will create and oversee the daily menu at the property. He began his career in fast-paced New York restaurants before moving into hospitality. He entered the health-care industry working in acute and long-term care facilities and contributing to homeless services throughout New York before going on to open his own restaurant, Mia’s Kitchen, in Suffern, New York, serving primarily plant-based café dishes.
James McIver
James McIver, W San Francisco
W San Francisco appoints McIver as Executive Chef. He brings over 25 years of culinary experience and trained in Paris at the École Supérieure de Cuisine Française. He has trained under renowned chefs such as Alain Ducasse and Thomas Kelle, and will now enhance the hotel’s culinary program and menus for banquet and catering facilities, in-room dining, Living Room Bar and signature restaurant TRACE.
Andrew King
Andrew King, The Junto
King takes on the role of director of food & beverage at The Junto, in Columbus, Ohio. He brings over 20 years of experience at top hospitality companies and a wealth of culinary expertise and operational insight. He has collaborated with world-renowned chefs, developing menus and overseeing the opening of numerous restaurants across New York and Boston.
Salvatore Bianco
Salvatore Bianco, Hotel Eden, Rome, a Dorchester Collection Hotel
Hotel Eden, Rome, a Dorchester Collection Hotel, welcomes Bianco as executive chef. Most recently, he served as executive chef of Il Comondante Ristorante in Naples, where he achieved and maintained a Michelin star for over a decade. He will oversee the entire culinary offerings at the hotel and infuse his culinary philosophy rooted in appreciation for culture, memories and flavors distinctive to a specific location through new menus and culinary experiences.
Jesse McDannell
Jesse McDannell, Hyatt Regency Scottsdale
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale appoints McDannell as executive chef. He will oversee all dining experiences at the resort. He grew up in New York as well as traveling the world with his father, who was an Army Officer. His first job was as a short order cook at the West Point Golf Course at the Military Academy at West Point. He went on to serve in numerous high-level kitchen leadership roles at properties all over the US. He will also work with the Hyatt Corporate offices to develop the “Mentoring Our Future” series to help guide developing chefs within the organization.
Chris Kurth
Chris Kurth, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
Kurth joins Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn as resort executive chef. He has served as the resort’s executive sous chef since 2021, and will now lead and inspire the resort’s culinary team in creating authentic dining experiences. He has served in numerous kitchen leadership positions at properties including The Harvest Inn at St. Helena, California and the U.S. Grant Hotel in San Diego.
Bring your meetings to destinations that go above and beyond
Looking for a meeting space that is versatile, unique and nails top-notch hospitality? You may find it in an innovative, high-tech NYC venue; or, perhaps a characteristic boutique hotel in beautiful Boise. Maybe Cleveland is the place for you, where history and modernity go hand-in-hand. Whatever you’re looking for, these new and renovated hotels and venues are waiting to host you.
Can’t Get Enough of Boutique?
Hotel Renegade
Boise, Idaho welcomes a brand new property with the opening of Hotel Renegade. With 122 guest rooms, Boise’s first supper club, a rooftop bar and a street-level coffee shop, it brings inspiring new programming to the city. Baraboo Supper Club is named for Baraboo, Wisconsin, and is the ideal place to enjoy brandy old fashioneds, prime rib, relish trays and boozy ice cream. Its rooftop bar, on the top floor, is called The Highlander. Indoor and outside seating provide a versatile environment with views of the Boise hills, where guests enjoy drinks and specialty cocktails.
Every detail of this boutique hotel celebrates the essential adventurous spirit of everyone’s inner rebel. But it doesn’t forget refinement either. Altogether, it brings an inspirational setting to life, from its guest rooms to its 5,100 sq. ft. of meeting and event space.
Manhattan is Where Business Gets Done
Park Gallery at Convene 810 Seventh Avenue
Convene 810 Seventh Avenue in Midtown Manhattan wraps up its conversion to a Convene property, debuting updated finishes on architecture and paint and a new collection of curated art to create a vibrant space that inspires both fun and business.
23,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space span the building’s 22nd and 23rd floors. Seven unique meeting rooms include one forum, where two divisible hubs can be broken down into four different spaces. One non-divisible hub, a boardroom, and expansive common space round out the available space. The largest room accommodates up to 140 guests.
Meeting rooms are versatile, with the ability to accommodate a range of setups, including boardroom, classroom-style, corporate social events and more. Convene’s classic high-tech, including built-in video screens, video cameras, microphones and speakers make for a perfectly modern meeting.
Building on History
Whitehall Ballroom at Hotel Cleveland
Hotel Cleveland is a 106-year old property, and just recently has debuted as a Marriott Autograph Collection. Formerly Renaissance Cleveland, its “new” name isn’t so new, but the original name of the hotel upon its opening in 1918.
The design emulates the surrounding city of Cleveland, marrying historical depth with sleek modernity. Certainly, it’s a place for business to get done—but it doesn’t run short of Cleveland’s characteristic hospitality and warmth. 491 guest rooms and 59,888 sq. ft. of meeting and event space ensure a stay with everything a meeting needs. The hotel also offers an upscale onsite restaurant and lounge, Maker, which focuses on sharable dishes and delicious craft cocktails.
Meeting experts weigh the positive aspects of generative AI
The introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the meetings industry has become a certified gamechanger. But how exactly can AI help meeting planners tackle their everyday jobs? Smart Meetings chatted with Amy Kramer, innovation leader for Maritz; Nick Borelli, an instructor at PCMA Event Leadership Institute and marketing director with Zenus Inc.; and Alexa Berube, co-founder of New York City-based Reposite and an instructor of MPI’s AI certificate program to discuss this trending technology topic.
Using AI Professionally
After Berube’s wedding in December of last year, she had the idea to use AI to turn her wedding photograph into a business headshot for her LinkedIn page. The result was a professional-looking picture that captured her in the best light with only one problem. It added an extra finger to her hand. “I did have to do some editing, they can do some pretty cool stuff,” she quipped.
In regards to meeting planning, Berube suggested using Google’s free AI app, Geminito find the best flights down to the day of the week and time of day. “AI is basically telling you that this is when you’re most likely to get the cheapest flights possible,” she shared.
Borelli pointed to post-event surveys as an arena where the power of AI can create better results than humans trying to analyze large quantities of data. “You can take years of post-event surveys, which is something that I think no one ever had done prior to that, and sort them with generative AI to see patterns and trends.”
Kramer agreed, “We sit on so much data and when you can connect different parts and pieces of data that surround an event. My favorite application is when it can find unlikely connections with the data and serve up recommendations, or thoughts that I wouldn’t have necessarily found on my own, because I have not been looking for it.”
Apps for Data Analysis
Ready to move beyond ChatGPT and looking for specialized tools? The experts suggested:
In a Smart Meetings White Paper on AI, published in January, 63% of respondents said they believe AI use in events is a valuable tool, while 31% said AI is a game-changer.
“AI gives you time and resources,” says Borelli, “It is game changing.”
Getting started with AI
For those timid about jumping into AI, Kramer suggested looking at the tool as a way to overcome the mental blocks of being a creator. “AI helps to extend that value of the event planner from just the day-to-day logistics, all of the things that engulf their day-to-day schedule. Let AI take that so we can be more creative in our roles.”
Planners who aren’t looking to commit to a monthly subscription of ChatGPT or other AI apps, have the option to try the free versions, but performance and security often increase in the paid versions.
Whether using free or paid versions, all three experts stressed the importance of making it a starting point. Ask AI to take more time and/or check its work. And always review.
Kramer called it “keeping a human in the loop” at all times. Check for accuracy and improve on the computer-generated result rather than copying and pasting.
“I think it’s not always about what the AI tool can do, because people are better than machines, regardless. It’s how you can leverage that to your advantage and use it to produce great work,” Kramer continues, “Don’t be afraid of it. Get out there and explore. Use it yourself.”
“There’s a lot of things we have to do to run a global two-sided marketplace and time is money,” says Berube. “If I can do something more efficiently using these tools, I absolutely owe it to the success of our business to do that.”
Creating Accessibility and Empathy with AI
Once planners have onboarded their AI assistants for the basic tasks, how will they use all of their extra time to improve attendee experiences?
Borelli suggests shifting their focus to areas such as accessibility. “AI can be used for providing windows into the perspectives of people we don’t normally design for,” he says. When you design an element, AI can help uncover the challenges it creates for divergent populations. “Overcoming those challenges requires human empathy and creativity we’re going to be using more.”
Meeting planner who use AI tools to listen to attendee’s needs will allow planners to create designs that are more accommodating and create a better sense of belonging, Borelli says.
Darren Howard
Darren Howard, Suncadia
Howard joins Suncadia as director of golf. He began his career in 1991 when he became a PGA Class A Professional. He grew in his experience at prestigious golf clubs across the nation, organizing and executing events on both local and national levels. At Suncadia, he will work to optimize golf optimizations across the destination and work with course superintendents to improve courses’ playability. In the coming year, he looks forward to developing new “Play and Stay” packages and course programming.
Samuel L. Thompson, III
Samuel L. Thompson, III, Visit Greater Palm Springs
Visit Greater Palm Springs (VGPS) appoints Thompson as director of Indian Wells Tourism. He has enjoyed a robust hospitality career across various departments, including front office management, catering and remote sales. In 2015, he launched his own full-service event management agency, Sync Meeting Management. He is also committed to community service and working with nonprofit organizations throughout the Coachella Valley. In his new role, he will collaborate with the City of Indian Wells and local tourism partners to enhance awareness and drive visitation to the city.
Brian Mason
Brian Mason, CEMA
Mason joins CEMA as vice president, strategy and operations. He has been a CEMA member for a long time and formerly served as an Advisory Board member. He will now lead the CEMA team, working collaboratively with the CEMA Advisory Board to lead and execute the company’s vision and lead growth initiatives across brand marketing, new program development, events, membership growth and retention and ongoing community engagement.
Steve Janicek
Steve Janicek, Omni Mount Washington Resort and Bretton Woods Ski Mountain
Janicek is appointed to the role of managing director of the Omni Mount Washington Resort and Bretton Woods Ski Mountain. He brings nearly 30 years of hospitality experience, from which he will draw to drive the resort’s longtime mission of delivering unparalleled guest experiences in an energetic employee environment.
Misoon Kong
Misoon Kong, Hilton Chicago
Kong takes on the role of general manager at Hilton Chicago. She is the first woman to hold the position in the property’s 97 years. She will oversee all aspects of hotel operations and provide leadership focused on delivering exceptional guest services and achieving strong financial success. Most recently, she served as complex general manager of Juniper Hotel Cupertino, Curio Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton San Jose.
Alan Love
Alan Love, ALHI
Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) welcomes Love to the role of regional vice president of sales for the international market. Throughout his 30-year career, he has gained extensive experience in group sales and hospitality. He will work to enhance ALHI’s strategic plans for Europe as the company grows its international presence through developing strong client relationships and deepening existing relationships with international members.
Kerry Mitruska
Kerry Mitruska, TradeWinds Island Resorts
The TradeWinds Island Resorts appoints Mitruska as director of sales and marketing. He will develop and lead new business opportunities as well as support prospective accounts and mentor and collaborate with sales team members. As a member of the executive team, he will maintain relationships with area visitor bureaus, travel agents, meeting planners and other travel trade industry representatives.
Ben Ly
Ben Ly, Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa
Ly takes on the role of general manager at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. He brings 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality and hospitality leadership from Hilton Hotels. Most recently, he served as general manager at award-winning Four Diamond Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach in Oxnard, California, where he spearheaded a resort rebranding and repositioning, overseeing an extensive property-wide renovation, commercial re-launch and the development and opening of new F&B outlets.
Juan Ayala
Juan Ayala, The Omni Homestead Resort
The Omni Homestead Resort welcomes Ayala as national sales manager. He began his career as a busboy at an Embassy Suites in southern California while earning a degree in business and marketing. He went on to hold pivotal sales manager positions at a wide variety of hospitality establishments, through which he has developed a strong understanding of sales strategies.
Scott Little
Scott Little, Salamander Middleburg
Little is appointed as managing director at Salamander Middleburg. He is an experienced executive, having held numerous leadership positions at the highest levels of the hospitality industry. He brings experience across many departments, including luxury destinations, community and investor relations, real estate development, preservation, finance and acquisition.
You have heard of craft beer, craft cocktails and even craft stores, but how about craft events? Playing on the small-batch distilling and culinary legacy in Louisville, Kentucky, Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is approaching its annual World Education Congress as a personally crafted experience that allows attendees to build a calendar of sessions that fits their career goals.
“We’ve always understood that we are cooking for chefs when we plan a conference for planners,” said Paul Vandeventer, MPI CEO and president. “Producing the event for event experts is a lot of pressure, but we also take pride in that.” His goal is that the 2,000 people expected at the conference will feel like they are at a boutique event built just for them.
The Tech Track
In keeping with the times, an entire track has been built around AI for those who want to understand what it is and how to use the tool for event planning. Individual sessions include a look behind the curtain at how MPI used technology to design and source the event they are attending.
The content menu is designed to offer something for all experience levels, from administrative assistants getting the tools they need to integrate planning into their job description to advanced executives looking for continuing education to stay current on new trends. Using the filtering tool, attendees can create their own calendars based on 12 skill sets and 13 learning tracks.
“There’s always more you can learn from the networking here and the content,” said Vandeventer. “More importantly, you can walk away inspired and refreshed.”
Main Stage
Fittingly for the destination, the keynote stage will be filled with different takes on music, self-discovery and career development. Princess Sarah Culberson, an adopted child who discovered that she was a real-life princess in Sierra Leone, will share tips for building a culture of belonging from a story Disney turned into a movie. Her approach to leadership is navigating with compassion and humanity to listen, learn and drive decisions.
Virtuoso Felipe Comez will share a music-filled journey through the mind, body and soul of leadership. This devout pianist and entrepreneur will tackle the need to create long-term value and navigate uncertainty.
Celebrity drummer and author Mark Schulman will be joined by Neuroperformance Coach Heather Crider for a deep dive into hacking the rockstar brain. In his book, “Conquering Life’s Stage Fright: Three Steps to Top Performance,” Schulman suggests treating every activity—call, email, social media post and interaction—as a show of who you are. Act accordingly.
“Since we are cooking for chefs, we like to take chances and risks, so you don’t have to,” explained Vandeventer about the approach MPI Academy for Meeting Professionals Vice President Jessie States takes toward building an agenda that is diverse in gender, race and cognitive approaches while delivering fresh perspectives. “Sometimes we fall on our faces, but other times they turn out fantastic, and either way we will be transparent about what we learned,” he added.
The Craft of Networking
Horse petting at Churchill Downs
Networking will get attendees out of Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) and enjoying the unique aspects of the city’s role in popular culture. A hosted-buyer reception will grace the halls of Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory tucked behind the 68,000-pound steel bat on Kentucky’s “museum row.”
The Opening Celebration will be at Churchill Downs, site of the Kentucky Derby, where a new pavilion was just unveiled for the 150th anniversary of the thoroughbred race. Festivities will include the neighboring Kentucky Derby Museum, where participants can craft their own derby hats and hear about the history of the pomp and sport.
“The team that plans that one-day event can teach all of us so much about how they manage everything from staffing up, training, housing and orchestrating such a milestone production,” said Vandeventer.
MPI President’s Dinner at Live Nation’s Mellwood Art Center will celebrate industry leader Steve O’Malley, who serves as chief operating officer for business events solutions with Maritz. MPI recently announced that superstar Aloe Blacc will be the celebrity performer for that evening.
“It will be a special place to recognize Steve, maybe the humblest man in this industry. He’s done so much for all of us. We want to be able to celebrate that,” said Vandeventer.
The same night will mark the celebration of volunteer leaders and chapter presidents as part of the MPI RISE Awards.
Another tradition restored is the MPI Foundation Rendezvous, 9 p.m. to midnight, at the indoor-outdoor concert venue Mercury Ballroom. The evening will mark the 40th anniversary of the networking extravaganza and ticket sales raise money for scholarships and grants.
The conference wraps up on Wednesday with a closing celebration and disco party at 4th Street LIVE that honors the manufacturing of the “glitter ball” in Louisville at Omega Mirror Products, the world’s primary mirrored ball producer.
Handshakes and Hugs
After all the keynotes have been given and the bars have been rolled away from the receptions, Vandeventer hopes attendees will remember the conference as one where they formed new relationships, made new contacts and rekindled old ones. “I’m going in my 13th year, and what I love about our community is how we are like a family. Those relationships are valuable personally and professionally,” he reflected. “I want people to walk away charged up excited, refreshed, tired but ready to hit the ground running in the next week. That’s my one real desire. Meet some new people.”
Streaming Live
For those who can’t make the trip to Kentucky, a live digital feed is available for $99. Amani Roberts (DJ AmRo) will host with exclusive interviews in addition to keynotes and concurrent sessions. Virtual attendees will be able to ask questions of the guests through the streaming platform and connect with other attendees through a digital networking platform.
What to See, Do and Experience in Louisville, Kentucky
MPI conventioneers are in for a treat. Louisville, Kentucky, embodies a unique history, culture and excitement. In addition to bourbon culture and 150 years of Kentucky Derby history, the diverse, lively neighborhoods brim with authentic charm. Mariya Baker, director of sales with Louisville Tourism, is partial to the human element of the destination. “Louisvillians are genuinely warm with so much Southern hospitality within their hearts. Louisville’s personality shines through year-round,” she said.
We asked her for tips on what to see and do while in town. “I hope attendees experience one of our dozens of distillery experiences on Whiskey Row in the heart of downtown. A bourbon, to us, is much more than a spirit in a glass,” she said. Fun fact: Kentucky has more barrels of bourbon than people! There are more than two barrels for every person in the state, she reported.
Muhammad Ali Center
In addition to Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum—where the opening celebration will kick off—and Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, Baker suggests visiting Muhammad Ali Center, which celebrates the life and legacy of The Greatest.
Breakfast Recommendations
Falls City Market: Con Huevos: Indulge in Mexican flavors or grab a sandwich. Brioche buns are baked fresh daily, and eggs are cooked to order with fresh squeezed orange juice or a Cuban coffee.
Wiltshire Pantry Bakery & Cafe Downtown is a Louisville-based restaurant and bakery specializing in fresh and local ingredients. Breakfast is served all day.
A couple of favorites in NuLu (1 mile away from KICC): Biscuit Belly for scratch-made biscuits, Southern flare with a twist and Wild Eggs, locally owned.
Lunch Meeting Favorites
Jack Fry’s: a Louisville classic, well-known for delivering Southern staples, fine dining and attentive service in a cozy spot amid Louisville’s famed Restaurant Row in the Highlands neighborhood. Ask to sit at Table 17, the very spot where Muhammad Ali frequently dined. Reservations are encouraged.
For a downtown pick, stop at The Brown Hotel Louisville to try the original Hot Brown. A signature dish of Louisville since 1926, the Hot Brown is an open-faced sandwich made with Texas toast, thick-sliced turkey, cheesy Mornay sauce, crispy bacon and tomatoes, all baked until bubbling hot. The Hot Brown may be native to Louisville, but the dish is known around the globe.
Considering AFAR Magazine just named Louisville’s NuLu neighborhood one of the Best Food Neighborhoods in the USA, you can’t go wrong with any hotspot there. Mayan Cafe, although one of the OG’s in NuLu, recently added a covered patio that accommodates an extra 40 guests. The tok-sel lima beans are a must-order, even for non-lima bean lovers…they’ll make anyone a convert!
Paseo at the brand-new Myriad Hotel is housed in a former disco ball factory. Order the seafood paella. At Proof on Main, enjoy the art tour around 21c Hotel Museum before or after dinner. Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is famous for its sushi…and steaks, of course.
Louisville has the second-largest Cuban population in the U.S., and La Bodeguita De Mima Cuban Restaurant & Rum Bar will transport guests back in time to 1950s Cuba. A great dish is ropa vieja en lata—braised and shredded short ribs, served tableside along with an intriguing and candid story on the history of this traditional Cuban dish (served in a tin can). The habano de chocolate dessert is a “Cuban cigar,” a chocolate cigar made with almond cake, mousse and chocolate ganache served with coffee ice and cream. And don’t forget the mojitos: Mint is grown onsite.
After-party Favorites
Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, photo: Marty Pearl
One of the downtown speakeasies, for sure. Look for the secret doors at Pin + Proof inside Omni Louisville Hotel (surprise! There’s bowling too). Hell or High Water (for the curious), Lucky Penny at the brand-new Hotel Genevieve as well as Gertie’s Whiskey Bar. (For reference, both Lucky Penny and Gertie’s are in the NuLu neighborhood).
Derby City Gaming offers a recently opened entertainment hub in the heart of downtown and provides a great hangout after hours. It features slots-like historical horse racing machines and three unique bar concepts: a main-level sports bar with a stage for live entertainment, a premium bourbon library, and an elegant wine and charcuterie lounge.
Are you ready for the next crisis to strike at your event? What plan do you have in place to communicate important messages to your attendees? Crisis communication is an essential, if often overlooked, element for all events.
In fact, I believe it is so critical that I just took the time to complete a dual master’s degree in Emergency and Disaster Management & Homeland Security from American Military University on top of my certifications in Crisis and Disaster Management from American Military University, OSHA, ALICE active shooter training, and Communicating During Global Emergencies at Emory University. This is what I learned from planning and communication with internal stakeholders to PR and event cancelation best practices with examples you can use.
Start Security Smart
At the start of the crisis, it’s crucial to gather comprehensive information and create a central document, reiterate team roles and brief your team thoroughly. You might also designate a specific room as the ‘Command Center’ where key personnel from operations, legal and PR collaborate to make critical strategic decisions.
Ensure consistent messaging across all departments for a coordinated company-wide response. Create a one-pager that includes the primary message, essential documents and contact information.
Additionally, the broader PR team should work from a separate breakout space, ideally located near the Command Center, to maintain continuous communication with the central crisis management team.
Crisis Team Roles and Responsibilities
Determine the roles of your PR or communications team members who will manage crises ahead of time. Those slated to interact directly with the media should undergo media training. Typically, in crises, senior leaders rather than PR team members serve as spokespersons, so prepare a list of executives who will be at your event.
Clearly document approved spokespersons in your crisis response plan, including PR handlers and a well-defined command hierarchy. Choose individuals who are analytical and remain composed under pressure. Team leaders and managers should be adept at crafting statements and managing media inquiries, while other team members should handle media monitoring and administrative duties.
Every team member involved in crisis management should be thoroughly trained, even if they aren’t the public face during a crisis. Training should include both theoretical knowledge of crisis communication and practical exercises like drafting urgent statements and conducting mock press conferences to sharpen public speaking skills.
Understanding Your Stakeholders
Defining your audience and understanding their concerns is critical for empathetic communication without making promises that can’t be kept. It’s also vital to identify all your stakeholders, which may include:
The media
The general public
Clients and customers
Investors and shareholders
Employees
Government or semi-state agencies
Family or next-of-kin in emergency situations
Internal Updates
Keeping employees informed during a crisis is crucial to prevent confusion. Communication updates (via email, company chat, etc.) should be distributed to employees simultaneously with any media statements. These communications should reflect care, control and commitment.
In cases of injuries or fatalities, additional face-to-face interactions may be necessary to provide reassurance and show concern, possibly through team briefings or larger town hall meetings.
Each internal communication should remind employees that only designated spokespersons are authorized to speak with the media and that they should direct any media inquiries to the appropriate channels.
Holding Statement Best Practices
You want to start the preparation by pre-drafting holding statements, making email templates, creating social media templates and having a list loaded into your email and text system for fast response. Once crisis strikes, the first thing you want to send is a holding statement. Holding statements need to be issued as soon as possible; studies suggest that companies have just 15 minutes to respond once a crisis breaks out. The key is to prepare these holding statements in advance so they can be quickly adapted to cover the situation at hand.
When crafting holding statements, include only verified facts and avoid speculative details. Every statement you make should be thoroughly checked for accuracy. Additionally, the statement should be authentic and tailored to the specific crisis situation.
The holding statement should always include the following:
A factual headline
The date and time
The location of the incident
Basic details that have been confirmed
When the company was made aware of the issue
Actions your organization is taking that you are willing to make public
An expression of compassion or empathy (if appropriate)
Contact details or details on when further updates may occur.
It should never include:
Details that are unconfirmed or uncertain
Any kind of speculation
A response to unsubstantiated rumors
Statements of blame or finger-pointing
Names of victims in the case of death (without the family’s permission).
Example: We have recently been informed that a [what happened] at [location] involving [who] occurred today at [time]. The incident is under investigation, and more information will be provided by [time].
After the initial holding statement, follow up at the time promised with further information or any progress in the situation.
Methods to Contact Guests
When guests go through registration, are you collecting cell phone numbers and emergency contact information? You want to ensure you have more than one method to contact your audience if an emergency strikes. Methods of communication can be event apps, event websites, text messages, social media and email. Do not rely on one method. Use all methods to ensure everyone gets the information they make, not just check one location. It is your duty to provide critical information that is shared with everyone.
Crafting a compelling, transparent event cancellation message is crucial to minimizing disappointment for ticket buyers. Utilize multiple channels to disseminate the cancellation news to ensure broad coverage.
Your cancellation message should include:
The reasons for the cancellation
The process for refunds
The expected timeline for ticket buyers to receive their money back
Address common questions upfront to reduce the volume of follow-up inquiries
Maintain clarity and brevity to prevent misunderstandings about the event’s status.
Set up a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page on your website, guiding ticket holders for additional details about the cancellation. Make sure the FAQ addresses key concerns, such as the refund timeline, contact information for unresolved issues, and specific reasons for the event’s cancellation.
— Mark Catuogno, M.A., CGSP, HMCC, MMP, is director of global events, MC Event Consulting. He brings over ten years of industry experience, holds a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Iona College and a dual master’s degree in Emergency and Disaster Management & Homeland Security from American Military University.
Additionally, Mark has pursued certifications in Crisis and Disaster Management from American Military University, OSHA, ALICE active shooter training, and Communicating During Global Emergencies at Emory University, among others. Before committing full-time to MC Event Consulting, Mark collaborated, planned, and consulted on events for major corporations. He serves as president of Brooklyn Dream Factory and was named Smart Meetings 2022 Meeting Professional of the Year.
Curate your perfect gathering in California
If you’re looking for a classic California meeting, know that the options abound. California is wildly diverse, and rich with opportunities for any style meeting. Whether you’re looking for city vibes, a relaxing stay amongst rolling green hills or a deep dive into California history in the state capital, know that you’ll find it at these new and renovated hotels.
Meet, San Francisco Style
Applegarth Event Space, The Clift Royal Sonesta
The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel opened in 1915, and, just recently, it has unveiled an extensive renovation. The newly debuted design matches its rich history with modern elegance. Over 12,500 sq. ft. of meeting and event space is made up of 11 venues, each of which is distinct in its atmosphere, from the Spanish Suite to private apartment. Depending on your meeting needs, the versatility of the available spaces makes for a variety of options to offer the perfect space. All incorporate natural light, city views, collaborative spaces and the best-of-the-best in modern tech.
At the heart of the renovation is sophistication and modernity, but the hotel does not forget its storied past. For planners, the hotel is invested in reliability when it comes to swift decision-making and transparency in collaborative work.
Carmel Valley Ranch completes an extensive renovation encompassing its Valley Kitchen restaurant, the Think Tank meeting venue and River Ranch, a family-friendly center for sports and community. The hotel emulates a sense of playful discovery and relaxed luxury, made all the more prevalent through the recent renovation.
Design firm HBA San Francisco sought to capture the brilliance of the surrounding natural landscape of greenery and sunshine in Carmel Valley in the renovated spaces. Valley Kitchen now includes an outdoor bar with poolside lounge seating and day beds, adding a rustic charm to a space that feels contemporary and upscale. The Think Tank meeting space is elevated with a new table, chairs, buffet table and modernized AV equipment. The hotel, in turn, has launched special packages for corporate travelers, executive retreats and strategy sessions, through which the group can enjoy savings and benefits such as complimentary upgrades and activities. Play space River Ranch now offers new amenities and enhancements, from a new children’s wading pool and splash pad to half- and full-day programs for children ages 2-5 and 5-12, as well as a family game zone with cornhole, ping pong and more, so if attendees want to bring their families, they can rest assured knowing they’ll all have everything they need.
Carmel Valley Ranch offers 179 guest suites and 11,500 sq. ft. of meeting space. Groups will find excitement in enriching community-building activities, from a round of golf on the 18-hole Pete Dye-designed golf course to adventures like beekeeping and honey harvesting, hilltop yoga and a goat barn.
Community in the Capital
Think Tank, AC Hotel Sacramento
AC Hotel Sacramento officially opens its doors in the heart of downtown, in the perfect location to get to the very best of California’s capital city. With 179 guest rooms and 246 sq. ft. of meeting space, the hotel offers an opportunity for an exclusive and intimate meeting environment.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, flexible workstations, digital check-in and pet-friendly accommodations are only the start. The onsite fitness center offers everything guests need to maintain their workout routines as they would at home. Plus, the signature AC Kitchen offers an enticing continental breakfast that includes artisan sliced meats and cheeses in addition to classic pastries, sweet and savory egg tarts, muesli, fresh fruit and Nespresso coffee. In the evenings, AC Lounge is the perfect space to enjoy signature cocktails and locally brewed craft beers with a unique tapas menu alongside unforgettable bonding moments.
Get more character, history and experience this summer in boutique hotels
Try something a little different for your summer incentives, small meetings or executive retreats in major destinations. Boutique hotels come in all different varieties—historic, niche, off the beaten path and everything in between. Smart Meetings is inspiring meeting professionals to be creative and immerse their guests in experience and culture with these popular and unique boutique hotels.
By the Beach
Of course, most people imagine the beach when they are looking forward to summertime, yet overcrowded tourism to popular destinations can be overwhelming. It’s worth researching those same destinations a little further to snag great deals on boutique beach hotels with equal parts beach fun and flexible meeting spaces.
Enjoy a quintessential Southern California summer with a modern edge and eco-friendly focus at Shore Hotel on the Santa Monica pier. Visitors can have both the exciting nightlife of the city and the peaceful nature of the beach with this hotel’s easily accessible location. With a dedication to being green, including sustainably sourced and energy conservation practices in each room, guests can travel to La La Land responsibly and fabulously this summer.
Shore Hotel in Santa Monica, California
Looking to travel further for a true paradise experience? More and more boutique beaches in the Caribbean are becoming popular for a more intimate island getaway experience. Morningstar Buoy Haus Beach Resort at Frenchman’s Reef, Autograph Collection is located just steps away from the sunny beaches of St. Thomas. Providing private villas, poolside cabanas, fine-dining Caribbean cuisine, dockside watersports and 60,000 sq. ft. of flexible outdoor meeting space, visitors can enjoy paradise for any type of meeting or event.
Boutique hotels can represent more than just a fun new place to be. They can also be cherished historical establishments that are important to the history, community and culture they are surrounded by. With the knowledge of a particular geographical area and the input of the people, travelers can find something truly special when visiting a historical boutique hotel.
Going back to the days when the word “inn” was used more than “hotel,” the charm of the South is blended with 2024 in the Old Village of the quaint town of Mount Pleasant, just outside of Charleston, South Carolina, atPost House. Built in 1896, the hotel’s location on Pitt Street has long been a popular fixture of the neighborhood. With the modern flexibility and Southern hospitality to accommodate incentive travelers, small meetings and staycationers, visitors will feel the charm and modernity of Charleston. With small event spaces from 35 to 100, visitors can enjoy an intimate event and enjoy a small travel back in time.
On the opposite side of the country, the Hassayampa Innis one of Arizona’s most historic hotels. Winning awards like Best Small Historic Inn/Hotel from Afar while staying aligned with a rustic Southwest aesthetic, the brick building in Prescott offers impressive classic Western glamour. Authentic regional art decorates the 12,000 sq. ft. of meeting space to bring Arizona’s summer desert motif into a modern-day event space.
Boutique hotels have the freedom to explore unique themes that mainstream hotels may not be able to. That kind of freedom of themes can lead to memorable experiences in great destinations and just might take your meetings out of the usual comfort zone in the best possible way.
Any literary fans traveling this summer? The Dorian in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is an experience as soon as you walk through the doors. Based on Oscar Wilde’s famous novel “The Picture of Dorian Gray”, this boutique hotel captures the opulence and lavish lifestyle of the book’s main character. Adorned with gold and peacock touches and high-end dining from its restaurant The Wilde on 27, the hotel also has a few fun tricks up its sleeve. Log-in to the device you are given as you enter your hotel and submit a secret. Depending on how “salacious” the secrets of the guests are, the picture of Dorian Gray in the lobby will change from a handsome man to a spooky skeleton!
Do your guests want drama? Over the top? Unapologetic self-indulgence and glamour? Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo, California, will not disappoint. You can’t help but have summer fun in a hotel decked out in a Versailles meets palm springs meets Liberace motif. The kitsch is sophisticated at this 110-guest room hotel, yet Madonna Inn also has scenic outdoor space where the glitz and glamour gives way to the beauty of the natural California coast.
Madonna Inn, San Luis Obispo, CA
By the time Churchill Downs Bugler Steve Butteman sounded the “call to post,” a number of notable performances had already taken place.
The University of Louisville marching band played “My Old Kentucky Home,” Kentucky native Wynonna Jud performed the National Anthem and lifestyle influencer and restauranteur Martha Stewart called “Riders Up” from the red carpet. 157,000 people had experienced Louisville hospitality in-person and 16.7 million tuned in for the “most exciting two minutes in sports” at watch parties all over the world, many with mint julep at hand.
Smart Meetings witnessed the photo-finish win by the decidedly not favored horse Mystik Dan with a group of fascinator-adorned fans at LadySomm Carmel Wine School and came away with these lessons for meeting professionals managing events with expectations of traditional elements, but practical requirements to innovate and adjust. After all, we are talking about a $5-million event that can make the career of jockey, trainer and owner. For Louisville, it is a chance to show off all that the city has to offer, including new exhibits at the adjoining Kentucky Derby Museum.
Hit the Traditional High Notes; Add Modern Harmony
Photo: Kentucky Derby Museum
The first leg in horse racing’s Triple Crown series, The Run for the Roses, as the 1 1/4-mile thoroughbred race is also known, has set the tone for the season on the first Saturday in May since 1875. It is the longest continually held major sporting event in North America and many of its traditions are sacred to fans; but that doesn’t mean the program forgoes new experiences.
Enhancements for 2024 included sponsor activations that gave attendees of all ages a chance to get closer to the action and modernize their experience.
Woodford Reserve Paddock Club and Sports Illustrated‘s Club SI flanked the sides of the newly renovated $200-million paddock with access to the paddock circling ring via an exclusive underground tunnel.
In the First Turn Club, Tractor Beverage Company offered certified organic drinks and mocktails along with an Instagram-worthy photo area.
Ford Motor Company’s sweepstakes gave winners the choice of three horsepower sources: a Ford Bronco Badlands, Ford F-150 Platinum PowerBoost Hybrid or a Ford Mustang Mach-E.
In a nod to Gen-Z fans, The Unwell Network hosted experiences such as live interviews with Call Her Daddy host, Alex Cooper, and Hot Mess host, Alix Earle.
“Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby sit at a unique crossroads of entertainment, sports and fashion with a global audience both in viewership and onsite guests,” said Casey Ramage, vice president of marketing and partnerships for Churchill Downs. “We are proud to partner with these world-class brands and appreciate their creativity in creating distinctive memories for our fans.”
Feed the Hunger for Southern Comforts
When tasked with feeding the crowd at one of the world’s premier sporting events, Chef Robert Lopez, senior executive chef for Levy Restaurants, focused on quantity and quality. After all, while it was his first Derby, it was the 23rd consecutive year Levy has partnered with Churchill Downs to feed the cheering crowds for the legendary race weekend.
“Any chef who’s created culinary experiences in a sports and entertainment venue dreams of the opportunity of the Kentucky Derby,” said Chef Lopez. “150 will never happen again, so our approach in creating the menu was to elevate the classics and take advantage of the wealth of seasonal ingredients in our community and region. We sourced local ingredients like asparagus, peas, bourbon and cherries to strike a balance between rich, bold flavors of iconic Southern staples and the freshness of spring,” he said.
On-track menus included seasonal Southern favorites such as spring pea pasta salad, grits, bourbon cherry brisket, burnt ends and plenty of Old Forester mint juleps.
In total, Lopez figured the operation would go through 20,000 pieces of assorted desserts; 10,000 pounds of smoked brisket; 9,000 pounds of shrimp; 1,000 pounds of mint; and 20,000 bottles of Woodford Reserve.
Meanwhile, Martha Stewart created an at-home menu that included Benedictine dip, deviled eggs, hot crab dip, pimento cheese and big-batch lemon-mint juleps.
Mark Catuogno, M.A., CGSP, HMCC, MMP, is director of global events, 
When tasked with feeding the crowd at one of the world’s premier sporting events, Chef Robert Lopez, senior executive chef for Levy Restaurants, focused on quantity and quality. After all, while it was his first Derby, it was the 23rd consecutive year Levy has partnered with Churchill Downs to feed the cheering crowds for the legendary race weekend.