Smart Meetings | Page 76 of 603 | Corporate Event Planning: Business Events, Meetings, Conferences

A Colorado pop-culture hotel supports women and the LGBTQ community through CSR

Innovative ideas and progressive inclusivity are gaining more awareness than ever in the hospitality industry, and sometimes original ideas need the support of an established brand. General Manager of the Curtis Denver—a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lizzie Raudenbush sat down with Smart Meetings to talk about the downtown Denver pop-culture themed boutique hotel, the unique events it offers, its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnership with a local LGBTQ community center and the importance of inclusivity in the hospitality industry.

Lizzie Raudenbush, General Manager of the Curtis Denver

With drag nights, gender-neutral policies and a partnership with The Center on Colfax LGBTQ community center, the Curtis Denver represents progress in downtown Colorado’s hospitality industry.

Q: What inspires you about the hospitality industry?

A: Hospitality is something that I love. We have the opportunity to impact people’s lives every day, whether it’s our guests, our team members or the community. We have the opportunity to play a key role in the fulfilment of other people’s lives.

Q: What attracted you to the Curtis Denver-a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel?

A: The Curtis is a really great sweet spot. It has the feel of an independent hotel with the strength of the Hilton brands behind it. I love that we have the opportunity to play in both the independent space and the branded space. We were one of the first independent hotels in Denver, and then pretty quickly recognized that we could benefit from having the backing of a brand.

Q: What does being a “pop-culture hotel” mean?

A: We can really be creative in the pop-culture brands. You can go so many different directions with that and really cater to a lot of different guests. We have so many unique and fascinating people who come through our doors and they’re looking for experiences and memories. Because we have a different theme on every floor, our guest services team checks in on our guests and their preferences. If our team asks a guest who is checking in if they like horror movies, and they say I hate them, we say okay, we will put you on our fun and games floor.

80's inspired guest room at the Curtis Denver — Pop-culture guest room at the Curtis Denver

Q: The Curtis has a partnership with The Center on Colfax, the largest LGBTQ community center in the Rocky Mountain region. How did the Curtis get involved with the organization and why is it important?

A: We have partnered with the Center for several years. We have a lot of members on our team who are a part of the community. We wanted to give back to a nonprofit and partner with a group that was a kind of reflection of our team dynamic and our team makeup. We’ve had several team members who have transitioned during their time while working with us. It is really important that we demonstrate to them that we have their back. In some of their cases, they did not have a safe place to go at home. So their safe place becomes work at the Curtis Denver-a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel.

Q: What are some attractions groups should check out when visiting the Curtis Denver?

A: We are immediately across the street from the Denver Center for Performing Arts. They not only have the ballet symphony but Broadway shows—upcoming is “Hairspray” which we’re partnering with them on (for obvious reasons.) We will be having their influencer event here at the Curtis with some of the local drag influencers.

Q: Why is the Curtis Denver a great venue to include in Women’s History Month?

A: Our sales service team is an entirely female team. Having the opportunity to be in a general manager role as a female for a larger property is pretty rare. We also have a gender-neutral dress code. So it’s the same whether you’re male, female or non-binary. It is really important to us that our team members feel seen, valued, appreciated and that they can be their true selves.

Incorporating wellness into events authentically, rather than as a mere marketing strategy, requires thoughtful planning and a genuine commitment to the health and well-being of participants. This approach, when executed with sincerity, enriches the event experience, fosters a positive atmosphere and promotes lasting impacts on attendees’ lifestyles. Below are practical and affordable tips to embed wellness into your events genuinely, steering clear of “wellness washing.”

Meals: Offer a variety of healthy, nourishing food choices that accommodate all dietary needs. Collaborate with local suppliers for fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients. Simple additions like hydration stations with water and herbal teas can significantly enhance attendees’ well-being. Also, check the calorie counts on mocktails and smoothies.

Movement: Incorporate brief, guided movement sessions such as stretching, yoga, bodyweight boot camps or quick walks into the event schedule. This promotes physical well-being and mental clarity, energizing participants and fostering a sense of community.

Mindfulness: Designate areas for attendees to take mental breaks. These can be simple, serene spaces equipped with comfortable seating and calming elements, offering a peaceful retreat from the event’s hustle and bustle. You should also consider how busy your agenda is and if it gives attendees the opportunity to take advantage of these.

Read More: Mindful Meetings for the Full Mind

Meaning: A key component is feeling connected to something bigger than yourself as an individual. Think about using the time after lunch during people’s Postprandial Dip to have them participate in a community giveback program of some kind.

Offer Education: Include workshops or talks on wellness topics like stress management, healthy eating habits and the benefits of regular exercise. Utilizing local experts or knowledgeable staff can provide valuable insights without incurring high costs.

Encourage Belonging Practices: Embed activities that promote mindfulness, such as guided meditations or group discussions on wellness topics. These practices enhance the event’s atmosphere, encouraging deeper connections among attendees.

Adopt Sustainable Practices: Implement eco-friendly initiatives, from digital event materials to selecting venues that prioritize sustainability. These efforts reflect a commitment to the well-being of our planet, resonating with attendees’ values.

By focusing on these key areas, you can create an event experience that not only supports the wellness of your attendees but also leaves a lasting, positive impact on their lives.

Stevens will lead a wellness-focused team-building exercise at the Smart Meetings Health & Wellness Experience in Arizona March 24-26. Join us!

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David T. Stevens is a 20-year veteran planner and 5x Fittest Male #EventProf, an honor achieved by topping the occupational leaderboard of the annual CrossFit Games Open. He has planned meetings, events and incentives for media, live entertainment, agency, association and corporate organizations. Stevens has a Delos Wellness for Meetings and Event Certificate, he is Pandemic Meeting Event Design certified, and he has been recognized by a number of industry organizations for his contributions to improving wellness in the sector and is a SXSW 2024 Mentor.

He credits his ability to create memorable experiences for event attendees to the clarity he gleans from workouts and mental breaks. He is the co-founder of event-wellness consulting firm Olympian Meeting—where he co-authored, along with a medical doctor and nutrition coach, a white paper on the increased ROI that can result from incorporating wellness elements into a meeting. Stevens also hosts a web series called Return on Wellness.

Hold a Meeting in Destinations Known for Warmth

As spring draws near, many are eager to get outside and enjoy the increasingly sunny days. What better place to do so than in a destination known for both sunny weather and a bright, joyful local culture. Whether you find yourself heading off to Orange County, Sedona, or Frisco, rest assured that each destination enjoys over 200 days of sunshine per year on average. Each possesses its own unique local personality, but all these destinations are united in their welcoming and vibrant spirit.

Bright and Beautiful in Orange County

Prefunction A at DoubleTree Santa Ana - Orange County Airport for New and Renovated — Prefunction room at Hotel Zessa, a DoubleTree by Hilton

Hotel Zessa, a DoubleTree by Hilton, formerly known as DoubleTree by Hilton Santa Ana – Orange County Airport, closes out a comprehensive property renovation with a distinct artistic, modern feel throughout all guest rooms, pre-function space, restaurant, bar and the lobby. The property’s 12,000 sq. ft. of flexible, customizable meeting and event space feature new and enhanced amenities, and groups have access to unique catering options.

The property being only one mile from John Wayne Airport (SNA) is just the start. Guests can take advantage of a complimentary shuttle both to the airport and within a three-mile radius of the hotel. The property also offers easy access to ample shopping, dining and entertainment, plus beaches and other attractions, with its one-mile distance from the iconic South Coast Plaza.

Reach for the Stars in Sedona

Sky Rock Sedona New and Renovated — Public Space at Sky Rock Sedona

Sky Rock Sedona will officially debut on March 18, following the completion of an extensive renovation and its transition to a Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott, to offer a one-of-a-kind modern boutique hotel experience. The property champions Sedona’s natural beauty, culture and spirit. Onsite, guests can take in 360-degree views of Sedona’s Red Rocks. Though it’s conveniently located in a central area of town, visitors have easy access to numerous hiking trails. The property is brimming with incredible programming, from stargazing to scientific vortex talks to yoga and sound baths.

It’s the ideal destination for an intimate small meeting, with one design-forward meeting room accommodating 18 attendees. The inspiring surroundings and wide selection of programming make for an incentive trip beyond a planner’s wildest dreams.

Style Comes to Life in Frisco

Sheraton Stonebriar Hotel for New and Renovated — Meeting space at Sheraton Stonebriar Hotel

Sheraton Stonebriar Hotel completes a multi-million-dollar renovation, bringing a welcoming yet sleek and stylish experience to the Stonebriar Commons in Frisco, Texas. Recreational activities around the area cater to any preference, from the famous Tom Fazio golf course to renowned shopping center Legacy West. As a bonus, the property is only a 20-minute drive from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

After a meeting across the property’s refreshed 6,374 sq. ft. of meeting space, made up of seven customizable event spaces, attendees can enjoy innovative American fare at the property’s full-service restaurant, Emerson. For smaller meetings, the Marriott Bonvoy Club Lounge, also stylishly upgraded, is an ideal place for both working and gathering.

Read More: Texas: The Lone Star Keeps Shining

Hop on the train for travel and team building

For meeting professionals and their clients, traveling can be crucial to the job. This can come with some headaches, especially with the heightening uncertainty surrounding planes continually delaying departures or even failing to depart at all. Travelers may want to consider a more affordable and scenic experience—a good old fashioned train ride.

Connecting destinations around the country, taking the train is a slower form of transportation yet much more affordable, eco-friendly and can be a great way to add an experiential activity for a group or extend a work trip into a vacation as rail services pass some of America’s most iconic sites. Whether it be a cross country/cross coastal train or a quick day trip to team-build and sight see, Smart Meetings has rounded up some of the railroads to travel on that can make traveling affordable, experiential and memory-making!

Trains for Travel

There is the potential for meeting professionals to rein in more event attendees should a train ride prove to be more affordable and leisurely. Attendees from across the country can travel a shorter distance to the closest train station and work, team-build and sightsee as they are on their way to the event.

California Zephyr

From the Midwest metropolis of Chicago to California’s Bay Area and back, the California Zephyr has daily departures that pass through some of the most scenic destinations of the West. With stops in Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake City and ending in Emeryville, California, passengers will weave through both the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada mountains before landing in the heart of the Bay Area with bus connections available to San Francisco and Oakland.

The Coast Starlight

Cruise up almost the entire Pacific coastline, from Los Angeles to Seattle, with stops in Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, Portland and many more. Between the beaches of Southern California, the Redwood forests of Northern California, hitting Oregon’s most “hipster” cities such as Portland and Salem before landing at King Street Station in Seattle, the variety of natural wonders on the country’s West Coast will impress.

View from Amtrak's California Coast Starlight — View from Amtrak’s California Coast Starlight

Southwest Chief

Chicago’s Union Station is hub to another long stretch rail service, the Southwest Chief. Ending in Los Angeles, the train takes the scenic route through the American West with stops in Kansas City, Albuquerque and Flagstaff. The trip takes passengers through the Grand Canyon with available connections to the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, Arizona.

Day Trip Excursions

Trains don’t have to be exclusively for traveling long distances. There are trains that use the railways to provide short trips for visitors to showcase the beauty of their area and visiting groups would love to see the area.

Cape Cod Central Railroad

With several options for your Massachusetts experience, the two-hour train takes passengers through the marshes of and cranberry bogs of Cape Cod, some of which are exclusively accessible by rail. The rail service offers a variety of Massachusetts experiences, including the Sunday Brunch Train and Jazz Sunday Brunch Train.

Skunk Train

For a California experience that will transport you into nature and back in time, the Skunk Train in the heart of Noyo River canyon provides groups with an unforgettable experience through the world-famous redwoods. The seven-mile roundtrip excursion has history, beauty and adventure while passing over trestle bridges and through historic tunnels. With hidden bars and railbike opportunities along the way, there are endless options for activities amongst the giant trees.

A community of female leaders built on welcoming others emphasizes the power of belonging

The announcement of the 2024 Smart Women in Meetings Award winners that went out Friday swelled the ranks of leaders honored to more than 1,000 strong. The seeds of that powerful community were planted nine years ago in a ballroom at The Ritz-Carlton, Denver.

Smart Meetings founder Marin Bright built her career in hospitality, first in luxury hotels at Mandarin Oriental and then in the meetings and events B2B publishing industry. She loved everything about the business. She loved the dedication to service, the professionalism, the impact it had, the people…and she loved going to lunch. But she noticed that while it was largely women who did the work, planning events, coordinating with hotels, even cleaning the rooms, opportunities for women in leadership were few and far between. As a female publisher 22 years ago, she was utterly alone.

Smart Meetings CEO Marin Bright — Smart Meetings founder Marin Bright

After inquiring with some industry groups about doing something to change this dynamic, she took matters into her own hands as she often did and profiled some of the women she admired and invited them to an awards lunch around a few tables at the luxury hotel in Colorado to celebrate their achievements and, hopefully in the process, encourage more to find their voice.

She brought top experts to the conversation to share secrets for negotiating, feeling more confident and building a network. She connected these go-getters so they could lift each other up. And she treated them to the luxury of time to reflect and create intention. Little did she know it would grow into a movement.

A Movement with Momentum

Flash forward nine years and the universe of women who have been honored has surpassed 1,000, including a growing Hall of Fame list of honorees. Winners are welcomed into a year-round Smart Woman VIP Club that supports each other with weekly discussions in a private LinkedIn group, regular virtual events, a newsletter, discounts for some of our favorite products, invitations to local receptions and, of course, revered status at Smart Woman Summit and Smart Women in Meetings Awards Gala, a celebration that gets bigger and more powerful each year.

Hear what attendees said about the 2023 Smart Woman Summit.

While the event is held in a much bigger ballroom now (This year Smart Woman Summit and Smart Women in Meetings Awards Gala will be held at Caesars Palace Las Vegas) to accommodate the growing movement, the emphasis is still on interaction and connections. Top coaches join to empower attendees to pursue their individual dreams and everyone—male or female—is welcome. One of the highlights is a moderated Provocateur Circles session that challenges attendees to ask the tough questions and make meaningful change. Luxury gifting and venues add to the self-care vibe. The bright light comes in the evening as each winner is awarded and thanked for their contribution to elevating events in the midst of their peers and family.

Over the years, a butterfly theme has emerged. Marin loved the idea that these resilient creatures who went through so much to grow their wings, flitted from place to place, bringing color, elegance and joy. A group of them is called a flutter or a kaleidoscope and last year, as we left The Edison Ballroom in New York City after the gala and saw some of our winners in sparkly gowns walking down the street to land in the next fabulous place, she marveled that we had released a beautiful flutter of fabulousness on the city and couldn’t wait to see what they accomplished after having spent the evening getting to know each other.

Freeman Chair Carrie Freeman Parsons, winner of the Marin Bright Award on the cover of Smart Meetings March Magazine — Carrie Freeman Parsons on the Cover of the March 2024 Magazine

Event pioneer Marin Bright passed away unexpectedly a month before this year’s winners were announced, but the day the March issue is uncovered was always one of her favorite of the year. She loved celebrating women and we will continue to do so in her honor going forward. That is why we announced the first Marin Bright Award this year to the pioneering Carrie Freeman Parsons.

A Focus on Belonging

This year, when we reached out to our Smart Meetings community and past winners asking who inspired them, the response was impressive, five times larger than what we could accommodate in the magazine. We narrowed down the list to those who hadn’t been profiled before and had been described as supportive, innovative and uplifting. We asked them about their approach to making everyone—their team members and their attendees—feel welcome and we asked them about their personal and professional goals. We made the difficult decisions about where to shine the light this year based on those inspirational responses.

The word cloud above captured the vivid responses, including an emphasis on being collaborative, creative, passionate, engaging and memorable. You are masters of personalization, authenticity and fun.

The answers tell the story of a group of women who understand the assignment: finding creative ways to care for others so everyone can thrive. Some that resonated are below so you can be as inspired as we are. Go forth and flutter, celebrating excellence wherever you see it. It is what Marin would have wanted.

“We don’t build events for robots, we build them for humans and should anticipate their needs as individuals,” Heather Hartland, CMP, CMM, Vice President, Experiential Marketing, ThreatLocker

“As a female leader, I stand on the shoulders of so many who came before me and it is my responsibility to continue to be a strong and powerful voice for those who will come after me,” Danielle Babilino, Senior Vice President, Global Sales & Marketing, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos

“We are all in this together and it takes a village to put on an event,” Micayla Diener, CMP, CSEP, Global Event Lead, TikTok

Leslie McClain, Senior Conference Planner, Palladian Partners “Creating an inclusive space is not just a professional practice but a personal philosophy where diversity is celebrated and everyone is recognized for who they are,” Leslie McClain, CGMP, DES, Senior Conference Planner/ Project Manager, Palladian Partners, Inc.

“I try to always be a soft place for the people I love to land and listening, even if it is hard,” Johnice Veals, HMCC, Associate Director of Events & Employee Engagement, Vertex Pharmaceuticals

“To work in hospitality, you must have a passion for making others happy and find joy in serving others,” Heather Allison, Vice President of Sales, Premium & Luxury Brands, Southwest Region, Marriott International

Mas Tadesse, Director of Programs and Conferences, American Association of Physics Teachers “By valuing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusion, I aim to cultivate environments where everyone feels a profound sense of belonging and can authentically express themselves,” Mas Tadasse, CMP, Interim Associate Director of Programs and Conferences, American Association of Physics Teachers

“I am passionate about building tomorrow’s leaders today through compassion, inclusivity and love,” Kim Napolitano, CASE, Executive Director, Industry Relations & Intermediary Group Sales, Hilton

Elyse Dawson, Senior Manager, Conference Center and Events, Invesco “I experience true joyfulness when I am onsite, walking the meeting room, setting out name tags. I feel like I am exactly where I am meant to be!” Elyse Dawson, CMP, CPCE, DES, Senior Manager, Conference Center and Events, Invesco

“I’m deeply invested in exploring how generative AI tools will transform an industry focused on human connection. Consider what we can achieve once freed from mundane tasks,” Janette Roush, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Digital, New York City Tourism + Conventions

“I knew I belonged in the meetings industry after a life-changing car accident. I switched majors from industrial engineering to hospitality management,” Kayla Worthy, CMP, Senior Marketing Manager, Trade Shows & Events, Transitions Optical

“It’s not enough to just listen to people, you need to make them feel heard. Give them a welcome seat at the table and allow them to be fully present,” Karen Strgacich, National Account Director, Hotel Sales, Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board

Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director, Business Events, Destination Canada “Sustainability and regenerative tourism are more than just buzzwords for me—they’re a deep personal and professional passion…it’s a commitment to shaping a more responsible and inclusive future for tourism, one step at a time,” Virginie De Visscher, CITP, SEP, HMCC, SEPC, PuMP, Executive Director, Business Events, Destination Canada

Laura Lines, LEO Events “I moved around a lot when I was young, so I understand the impact of change and aim to create an inclusive environment where people feel comfortable bringing their full, true selves,” Laura Lines, Vice President, Marketing, LEO Events

Gina Harringan, Director of Sales, Caesars Entertainment “I lead with compassion. I want to make people to feel cared for and want them to know that what is important to them, is also important to me,” Gina Harrigan, CED, Director of Sales, Caesars Entertainment

“Hospitality is my love language,” Danielle Cirami-Gilis, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, PRA

Behind the scenes of The NAMM Show

In January, Smart Meetings had the privilege of attending The NAMM Show (National Association of Music Merchants) in Anaheim, California. Smart Meetings sat down with Cindy Sample, Director of Trade Show Operations at NAMM, to get a better sense of how the show came together between working with Visit Anaheim, security set-up, and the inclusion of AI within the many discussions that took place this year.

Smart Meetings: The NAMM Show has been in Anaheim for a while now. What made this destination an ideal location for NAMM?

Cindy Sample: NAMM will celebrate 50 years in Anaheim in 2026. It’s close to NAMM HQ, it’s Southern California with ideal weather in January and it’s a big time convention center with a small town feel.

SM: How close does NAMM work with Visit Anaheim (VA)? Talk about the ways the CVB has been able to add value. How soon in the process you do start working with them and how would you describe the communication arrangement?

CS: We work with VA very closely. They are my sales contact for ACC (Anaheim Convention Center) and we work together on future dates. I have also been on the customer advisory board for Anaheim for many years. They take a very invested interest in their customers and our feedback.

As they have grown over the years, we have been a part of the discussions. They are a city-owned building so that has its limitations, however, VA and ACC have always strived to put NAMM’s needs up front. VA also stays on the pulse of the city and surrounding area through their board and connection to city council. We have had the opportunity to present at their meetings, which has helped to improve communication with the city and businesses within the community. We work well in advance of the shows. We have regular meetings and we go to Anaheim frequently since we’re nearby.

SM: In terms of the security of the event, attendees were required to present their government ID upon entering the perimeter. Was this a new security feature? Is this a standard part of security at NAMM or is it relatively new? Was there a specific reason why it was important to include?

CS: NAMM is a consumer-friendly event, given its publicly attractive music draw, although it is not open to the public. For security and to protect the integrity of the event, we check ID at the perimeter entrances. And control the entrances and the badges so it’s clear who has access, since it is a private event for NAMM members and their guests. NAMM invests quite a bit into safety and security and so does the city of Anaheim. We work closely with APD (Anaheim Police Department) and AFR (Anaheim Fire & Rescue) to ensure the most balanced approach to ensuring the safety of our event.

SM: One of the interesting aspects of the show was the NAMM Idea Center. It was in front of the main hall and included seats for people to sit down and listen, as well as space for people to stand. What was the thought process that went into designing a space like this and how did you decide what content would be displayed?

CS: The goal of the NAMM Idea Center is to create an immersive, convenient and non-committal space for our members to attend educational sessions and unwind during the show. It’s purposefully built to be open and comfortable, with multiple entrances, so our members can come and go as they please. That’s essential to the concept. The shorter, 30-minute session length is also vital, as it gives our members the opportunity to attend presentations while maximizing their time with brands on the show floor.

The front-and-center location of the NAMM Idea Center tells NAMM Show attendees that we value education as part of our mission to help strengthen the music industry. And again, it helps attendees with scheduling. There’s a lot to see and do during The NAMM Show.

SM: For the opening breakfast discussion with NAMM CEO John Mlynczak, I was very impressed by the choice of speakers. It felt like there was an intention to offer diverse voices. What was the process for this and what did NAMM hope their attendees took away from those conversations?

CS: The goal of the opening session was to provide a snapshot of where we are as an industry and where we’re going through the perspective of industry influences. Likewise, we were highlighting how different industry leaders serve the role of influencer, be it a music retailer, platform, content creator or artist. It was our hope that our members walked away inspired and with a broader perspective of their role in the industry’s ecosystem.

SM: In the planning process for NAMM, what were the new aspects to the show that you offered in 2024? How did attendees respond to them?

CS: One area of focus was ensuring we were welcoming content creators to the show. That community is such a vital part of our industry’s ecosystem and inspiring the growth of music making. Along with highlighting them at the opening session via a content creator and artist like Mary Spender, we also hosted NAMM’s inaugural Creator Night—a gathering of social influencers on Friday evening. From what I hear, the response was overwhelming.

SM: NAMM had a lot of discussions involving AI. Why was it important to bring the AI discussion to this type of event?

CS: We heard from members that they were seeking insights into how they could harness AI to improve everything from business efficiency to marketing. Also, I think most are curious to hear how AI might impact the future of music making, recording and content creation. It was vital to ensure those conversations were happening at The NAMM Show.

How to effectively bringing health and happenings together

Everyone seems to be looking for health and wellness tips to improve event attendee experiences. Whether it’s non-alcoholic beverage offerings or wellness activities such as electrolyte IVs, the demand is surging for event programming that promotes a healthy lifestyle and supports a vast array of drinking choices.

Healthy Alternatives to Beer and Wine

“Sober curious” is gaining traction as a lifestyle trend, and many seem to be dipping their toes into going spirit-free. We’re seeing more mocktail beverage menu requests coming into Crown Block from our event clientele on both the social and corporate sides, and if you’ve spent any time in a beverage aisle in the grocery store recently, you know non-alcoholic options are in high demand.

One in three adults who love to indulge in a cocktail or glass of wine every now and then are rethinking their relationship with alcohol, per a recent CivicScience poll. This trend isn’t merely a random personal choice; it’s truly reshaping the very fabric of events and conventions.

Read More: Yes, Health Is Still Trending

Meetings and events experts must adapt beverage, mixology and activation programming to accommodate these requests, along with considerations such as dietary restrictions and corporate drinking policies.

These preferences are increasingly influencing venue dynamics and corporate conversations about their employees’ wants and needs, yielding a desire for customized programming including dynamic, creative, complex, thoughtful and delicious mocktail options.

As an events professional who was sober for nearly 3 years, my personal journey instilled in me a profound commitment to ensuring inclusivity and accommodation for every individual palate and preference that enters our event space.

Best Non-Alcoholic Beverage Strategies

If you’re asking yourself where to start when it comes to integrating non-alcoholic beverages into event programming, a great starting point is to create an intake form for your clients. Touch on topics such as who is coming to this event, whether there are any food or beverage restrictions you should be aware of, and most importantly, what kind of activations your group cares about most.

Knowing your clients’ needs and specifications will allow your team to feel confident when consulting with catering and bartending teams, whether they be an in-house restaurant or venue partner.

Catering and event teams know that mixology is a craft—at its essence, it is a recipe, just as customizable as a food dish. The increased interest in non-alcoholic options has given rise to a whole new wave of creativity from both our beverage team and beverage teams across the country, and it’s great to approach this wave as an opportunity for libation exploration.

Allow this to enhance collaboration between culinary management and event programmers on flavor profiles, textures, garnishes, batch-crafted syrups and herbal tinctures. An easy activation to work these mocktails into is a beverage greet, adding passed mocktails to welcome trays for guests to choose their own beverage adventure based on their unique needs and goals. Nearly all our event clients have requested both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options since late 2023.

Feel Good Trends

Post-Covid, we’re seeing a sharp increase in the desire to feel good in your mind, body and soul. Events are on the frontline of this wellness revolution.

The “action stations” we had become so used to are now transforming into immersive health-boosting stations that provide benefits in real-time. Imagine electrolyte-boosting IV drips, a ‘shot bar’ that’s all about healthful elixirs, reiki and massage stations to relieve the body, tarot readers to connect with the spiritual realms, custom stones and crystals used in guest gifts. There are so many subtle and bold ways this paradigm shift is beginning to show up in events. Not only is it fun to get creative with, but it leaves guests with a memory that sticks out.

These wellness-centric initiatives signify more than just transient trends; they embody a collective dedication to nurturing mental and physical well-being. As we chart our wellness-centered course forward, the fusion of entertainment and wellness is redefining the very landscape of events, offering experiences that not only tantalize the senses but also rejuvenate on a holistic level.

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Mackenzie Kahl is a Dallas-based hospitality and events expert with a passion for innovative event production, management, and making a positive impact on corporate entertainment.

She is currently director of catering and events at Crown Block’s premier event space, The Crown Room, where she thrives being front-of-house, front-of-room, and in front of clients seeking to make memories. She is a graduate of the University of Nevada Las Vegas William F. Harrah College of Hospitality.

A battle between two equally attractive forces commences

There may be no settings at more opposite ends than lakeside properties and those that sit in a downtown area. Both respectable in their own right, each come with a different vibe and cater to a certain kind of person, or a certain kind of mood. The properties below are on either side, offering a stay with sights of slow flowing waves or gorgeous city landscapes.

Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe

aerial shot of hotel with mountains and lake in background

South Lake Tahoe is the latest location for the Margaritaville brand and its first in a ski destination. Its 399 suites feature views of Lake Tahoe or the Sierra Nevada mountains. The property is home to more than 14,000 sq. ft. of event space, including an indoor heated pool that has sliding doors to a patio. For food and beverage, visitors can make a stop at one of its five restaurants or bars, including the lobby’s License to Chill Bar, Come Monday Cafe, and JWB Prime Steak and Seafood.

Aloft New Orleans Downtown

This New Orleans property has redesigned its lobby and updated its 188 guest rooms, corridors and fitness center. The neon pinks, oranges and blues found in the lobby have been worked into the artwork in the guest room’s headboards, alongside abstract designs of New Orleans’ architecture.

The property features W XYZ Bar & Lounge, which sits next to the renovated lobby; Re:fuel, a 24-hour market; and six event rooms.

La Playa Hotel

The property formerly known as La Playa Carmel has undergone a renovation. Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, this mansion-turned-hotel has updated its 75 guest rooms, as well as public spaces and furnishings, and added three one-bedroom suites to its offerings. Its bar and restaurant, Bud’s, named after the property’s former owner, has also been restored. The restaurant features a relaxed atmosphere accompanied by cocktails, wines and a nice selection of food, like ricotta toast and cobb salad.

The property features more than 6,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space across four meeting rooms and three outdoor venues.

The Big Easy prepares for its 11th Super Bowl

When the NFL added another week to its usual 17-week schedule in 2021, this created a small problem between the Super Bowl LVIII and this year’s Mardi Gras in New Orleans. As a result, 2025’s Super Bowl was moved to New Orleans and Super Bowl LVIII took place in Las Vegas, a first for the city and accompanied by much fanfare.

But as things cool down on The Strip, eyes are now set on Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. This will be the city’s 11th time hosting the Super Bowl, tying it with Miami, which hosted Super Bowl LIV at Hard Rock Stadium in 2020 for its 11th time. The game in 2025 is scheduled to take place at Caesars Superdome, set for a completed $500 million renovation this July.

seating area in stadium — Caesars Superdome Legend’s Club Gate C, Photo: Jeremy Jachym

Over time, one thing that becomes clear is the NFL’s evolution, says Stephanie Turner, New Orleans & Company’s senior vice president of convention sales and strategies. “The brand is evolving, and as the game evolves and the events around it, so do destinations. For me, just the observance of Las Vegas’ first [Super Bowl], having that palette where they could go in and apply Las Vegas to this game, to the stadium, was great to watch.”’

Turner says the lesson for her and her team from watching Las Vegas handle the Super Bowl is the need to continually evolve and understand the needs of your customer, whether it’s the NFL, a large association or a corporate meeting. “This particular year was very important [for Las Vegas],” she says. “They had a fresh start. We’ve got 10 [Super Bowls] behind us. So reminding us to evolve, to improve, to stretch to new heights. That to me is a great Hallmark to look to.”

Whether you’re New Orleans or Miami, there has to be a reason the NFL would choose a city so frequently. Turner says she believes the appeal of New Orleans comes from it being so compact. “It’s a campus really, and a 2.5-mile radius. Everything is walkable. The ease to get from the stadium to the media center. The distance between the convention center and the dome, where the media center will be.” From this, Turner says visitors know that that particular Super Bowl is happening in New Orleans and that all those participating love the sense of community that takes place. “That’s one of the most wonderful things, to be here and watch larger groups move through the city.” With downtown and The French Quarter nearby, this also adds to the overall experience.

Despite having the benefit of so many Super Bowls and repeat customers, Turner says she wants to ensure the experience is fresh and true to what the city is. “We’re very good at rallying our community and bringing the hospitality community together. We don’t ever take anything for granted, we work very hard to make sure it feels like the first time the NFL, or any other group, has been with us, and that we’re hearing them and listening and understanding what’s important.”

And part of fostering a sense community is partnering and highlighting local businesses, which the NFL is doing with its supplier diversity program, presenting the opportunity for local businesses, as well as minority-, women-, persons with disabilities-, LGBTQ+- and veteran-owned businesses to gain exposure through sub-contracting during Super Bowl LIX.

Read More: The Diversity Among Us

“One of the most wonderful things about the Super Bowl is it has lasting impacts in the community and the lasting impacts that the supplier diversity program will yield. Kevin Ferguson, our vice president of external affairs, is working with our member community and NFL on that….You always see in cities the lasting impact of the Super Bowl, it can be more corporate meetings that book or high-end leisure travel or, in this instance, diversity programs, give backs and corporate social responsibility programs. The NFL does an incredible job of touching so many areas of our community and this diversity program I’m very excited about.”

escalators from first to second floor of stadium — Superdome Northeast Atrium 100 and 200 Level, Photo: Photo: Jeremy Jachym

Also exciting are the details of the soon-to-be-finished Superdome, which will feature new entrances at its Gate C—Champions Square entrance—as well as the addition of new escalators and elevators (where there were previously concrete ramps) that will take guests from the ground floor to the 400 level. The dome will also feature the Legends Sideline Club on its 200 level, where there will be seating, televisions and multiple concessions. A third atrium will also be created in the dome’s Southwest Corner.

In addition to hosting the Super Bowl and being fresh off of a renovation, next year will also be the Superdome’s 50th anniversary. This will also be the eighth time the Superdome has hosted the Super Bowl, a record for most Super Bowls hosted in a stadium, marking a huge milestone for the venue in multiple ways.

Visitors to New Orleans will also see several hotel changes when they make their way to the city. This summer, Caesars Entertainment is rebranding and renovating its Harrah’s property into Caesars New Orleans, which will also house the 54-room Nobu Hotel New Orleans and Nobu restaurant within it. “There’s a lot of investment taking place. We’re just very excited about the ability to host the NFL. It always makes competition for the future. You always want to deliver a great result, I think that you feel an inherent responsibility. As this is our 11th, we have to do the best one yet.”

Austin Gardner

man wearing white dress shirt and dark blue plaid coat

Gardner is vice president of business development for Staypineapple Hotels Inc., based in Bellevue, Washington. Gardner has more than 13 years working in hospitality sales and marketing—specifically with independent hotels—most recently as regional vice president of sales for Oxford Collection Hotels.

Daniel Scott

man wearing white shirt and light blue sport coat

Scott is Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort’s managing director. Scott will maintain his current role as regional vice president for Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, which includes overseeing operations at The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel; Rosewood Washington, D.C.; and Rosewood Baha Mar in the Bahamas. Scott joined Rosewood in 2003 and has held positions with the company in the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Chris White

man wearing white dress shirt and blue coat

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has named White director of sales and marketing. Before Fairmont Princess, White was director of sales and marketing at Four Seasons Minneapolis, where his efforts earned him recognition as a Notable Leader in Marketing from Twin Cities Magazine. He has also worked at Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, as well as several properties in Hawaii, like St. Regis Princeville Resort in Kauai, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Kailua-Kona and Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection in Puako.

Maurice Wooden

man wearing blue suit

Wooden is Fontainebleau Las Vegas’ president. Wooden has nearly 20 years working in Las Vegas’ hospitality scene, beginning his career in 2005 at Wynn Las Vegas as executive vice president of food and beverage, and later, principal executive officer and president. This was followed up by leading roles at Golden Nugget in Las Vegas, The Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, and Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Rylie Johnson

woman wearing white short and light green coat

HRI Hospitality has named Johnson corporate director of business development and strategic partnerships, a new position within HRI. Johnson most recently worked at Studio 11 in Dallas as studio development manager.

Jon Herr and Haewon Jang

man on left wearing suit, woman on right wearing black top — Jon Herr (left) and Haewon Jang (right)

Herr is citywide sales executive and Jang is international tourism sales manager at Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Herr comes from Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead, where he worked as senior sales manager. He’s also worked in directorial and managerial roles at Viceroy Hotel Group, The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square and Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort.

Although Jang’s new role will be global, her focus will be on expanding the bureau’s Asian inbound marketing.

Zachary Sporbert

man wearing glasses and blue suit smiling

Sporbert is general manager for The Pennywell St. Louis Downtown, a Hilton Hotel. Most recently, Sporbert was assistant general manager at The Camby, Autograph Collection in Phoenix. Before this, he worked as director of rooms at The St. Regis Deer Valley in Park City, Utah, director of front office at The Camby, and housekeeping manager and front desk manager at W Seattle.

Beth Harty

woman sitting down wearing pink top and black coat

Denver’s Kimpton Claret Hotel has named Harty director of sales and marketing. Harty has more than two decades working in hospitality in Denver, starting her career at Magnolia Hotel Denver, where she later became director of sales. Since joining Kimpton Hotels in 2005, she has worked with Hotel Monaco Denver, Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City, Sky Hotel in Aspen, Colorado, and Hotel Born in downtown Denver.

Dan Dolan

man wearing long sleeve blue dress shirt

The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa in Fontana, Wisconsin, has named Dolan general manager. Before this, Dolan was interim general manager and area director of sales and marketing for Benchmark Global Hospitality, The Abbey Resort’s management company. Dolan’s hospitality experience is extensive, having worked with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, KSL Resorts and Japan Travel Bureau.

Lanette Torres

woman wearing teal top

Torres is director of sales, marketing and events for Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino. Torres comes from The Confidante Miami Beach, where she worked in numerous roles since joining in 2015, most recently as director of commercial services. She’s also worked with numerous other hotel brands, including Accor Hotels, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Morgans Hotel Group and Thompson Hotels.