Smart Meetings | Page 86 of 603 | Corporate Event Planning: Business Events, Meetings, Conferences

5 exercises to keep you fit while traveling to events

Physical and mental fitness are the foundation of a healthy events career. 2023 Smart Meetings Catalyst Award winner and Tree-Fan Events CEO Anca Platon Trifan, CMP, DES, PMED, started a new group called “Fit Mindful Mavens: Where Boardroom Brilliance Meets Fit Resilience” to help event producers manage their personal needs while advancing their careers.

woman standing with arms crossed — Anca Platon Trefan

“Throughout my career in event production, coupled with my personal journey in natural bodybuilding, I’ve come to understand the indispensable role that mental and physical fitness plays in not just surviving but thriving in our professional and personal lives,” Platon Trifan said. She acknowledged that the event industry, while exhilarating, often operates at a breakneck pace, potentially impacting physical health and mental clarity.

She decided it was time to blend career and our personal fitness goals in a shared community. “Fit Mindful Mavens is all about fitting kickass fitness and mental sharpness into our crazy schedules. It’s not just about staying on top of our game; it’s about redefining it,” she said.

Platon Trifan stressed that the group is not just about personal well-being. “I extend my expertise to events, and the teams running the events, as well as the audience attending it, offering holistic audits to ensure excellence in every aspect, from AV and tech to audience engagement. It’s a comprehensive approach to ensure peak performance in all areas. Think of it as leveling up in life and work, but with a roadmap.”

Read More: A Band of Female Event Producers

Flexing Success

To prove that mental and physical fitness is essential rather than competing with event planning and management, Platon Trifan offers these proof points:

Stress Management: The event industry is known for its high-pressure environments. Physical fitness activities like exercise can be effective stress relievers, releasing endorphins that improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. This physical wellness directly contributes to mental resilience, enabling event professionals to handle stressful situations more effectively.

Enhanced Focus and Productivity: Regular physical activity has been shown to improve cognitive functions like memory, concentration and creativity. For event professionals, this means better problem-solving skills, more innovative event ideas, and improved attention to detail – all crucial for successful event planning and execution.

Energy and Stamina: The physical demands of the event industry—long hours, being on your feet, setting up venues—require good physical fitness. Maintaining a regular fitness routine boosts overall energy levels and stamina, making it easier to meet these physical demands without exhaustion.

Emotional Well-being: Mental fitness—encompassing aspects like emotional intelligence, resilience and a positive mindset—is vital in an industry that involves constant interaction with clients, vendors and team members. Physical fitness can support mental well-being by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, leading to more positive interactions and a better work environment.

Leadership and Team Building: Physical fitness activities, especially team sports or group exercises, can enhance leadership skills and foster team spirit. These activities teach valuable lessons in teamwork, communication and mutual support, which are directly transferable to managing event teams.

Personal Example: As leaders in the event industry, demonstrating a commitment to personal mental and physical wellness can inspire teams and create a culture of health within the organization. This can lead to improved overall performance and job satisfaction among employees.

Resilience in the Face of Setbacks: The event industry is unpredictable—last-minute changes and unforeseen challenges are common. A strong foundation in both mental and physical fitness helps professionals in this field to adapt quickly, maintain a positive outlook, and find effective solutions under pressure. Mental and physical fitness is not just beneficial but essential for success in the event business. It creates a foundation of resilience, creativity and energy that empowers professionals to excel in this dynamic and challenging industry.

Read More: Road Warrior Wellness

Small Investment, Big ROI

Healthy habits don’t have to be elaborate or expensive to have a big impact. For instance, activities like gratitude walks or community circles don’t require any fancy equipment or expenses, yet they deeply enrich the wellness experience. Platon Trifan advocates for smart resource utilization. This means using existing spaces innovatively, like turning a section of the conference venue into a calming area for meditation or breathwork sessions. “We don’t always need to rent out extra rooms or bring in high-priced specialists. We can highlight local community resources like public parks for exercise, community centers for classes, or even online communities for support. Wellness is everywhere if you know where to look,” she said.

Even incorporating stretching, chair yoga or body-weight exercises during a short break in the middle of a 30-minute session can be effective. “Staying fit doesn’t require a fancy gym membership,” Platon Trifan said.

Another option is tapping into technology by using free or low-cost apps for guided meditation or exercise sessions. “It’s amazing how a smartphone and an internet connection can open up a world of wellness resources without adding to the budget. The point is, staying fit isn’t a luxury; it’s a lifestyle choice that’s accessible to everyone,” she said.

5 Exercises to Add to Your Personal Event Schedule

Anca Platon Trifan suggested three specific exercises and practices—and no, they’re definitely not burpees—that can be seamlessly integrated into a hectic schedule:

1. Boxed Breathing Exercises: This is a game-changer for mental health. You can do this anywhere—in your hotel room, backstage or even in a restroom stall before a big meeting.

How to do it: Just take a few minutes for deep, diaphragmatic breathing. Inhale deeply for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four and hold again for four. This “box breathing” technique is excellent for reducing stress and refocusing your mind.

2. 4-7-8 Relaxing Breathing Technique: This is a powerful method for reducing anxiety and calming the mind, especially useful in high-pressure situations.

How to do it: Breathe in quietly through the nose for four seconds, hold the breath for seven seconds, then exhale forcefully through the mouth for eight seconds. This can be done anywhere, anytime. Just a few minutes of 4-7-8 breathing can significantly calm the nervous system.

3. Jump Rope Sessions: A jump rope is easy to pack and a fantastic way to get a quick, high-intensity cardio workout. It’s effective for staying fit and boosting energy levels.

How to do it: Start with a 5-minute warm-up, then do 1-2 minutes of fast-paced jumping followed by one minute of rest. Repeat for 10-15 minutes. This not only improves cardiovascular health but also helps in maintaining focus and reducing stress.

4. Resistance Band Workouts: Resistance bands are lightweight and portable, ideal for on-the-road workouts. They can be used for a full-body strength training session.

How to do it: Band pull-aparts, squats with the band under feet and handles pulled up to shoulders, standing rows and tricep extensions. A 10- to 15-minute routine targeting different muscle groups can activate your muscles, boost circulation, and keep you energized, and are a great way to maintain physical strength and relieve tension from prolonged sitting during meetings or travel.

5. Walking Meetings: Instead of sitting in a coffee shop or a conference room, suggest a walking meeting. This not only gets you moving but also can spur creative thinking and more relaxed conversations. The physical activity of walking, even at a leisurely pace, can help clear your mind, reduce stress and keep you physically active.

Fit Mindful Mavens is a commitment to empowering professionals to embrace their physical and mental fitness, ensuring peak performance both in and out of the workplace. It’s about recognizing that nurturing our physical and mental state is not just a personal indulgence but a professional imperative. This is more than another business venture; it’s a heartfelt endeavor to transform lives by starting with my own.

MGM Resorts International is investing almost $500 million in guest room renovations, new dining options, upgraded conference room technology, and more, bringing the meeting experience to the next level. “We are constantly investing and reinventing ourselves,” said MGM Resorts Chief Sales Officer and Senior Vice President Stephanie Glanzer. “Everything we do is to optimize the customer journey and create unique, one-of-a-kind experiences for your guests.”

Completely Remodeled Guest Rooms

MGM Grand is the largest single hotel in the world with over 5,000 guest rooms and an 850,000-square-foot conference center. It is home to the newly remodeled MGM Grand Studio Tower—700 reimagined guest rooms with a fun mid-century vibe. Nearby, the iconic New York-New York Las Vegas Hotel & Casino recently completed a $63 million redesign and remodel of its 1,830 guest rooms and 155 suites.

Down the street, Bellagio Las Vegas is sporting renovated rooms in the Spa Tower with sunrise-inspired decor and luxurious soaking tubs in Premier King rooms after a $110-million transformation. The resulting tranquil design features natural materials and feels like stepping into Italy’s Lake Como without a long flight.

Reinvented Luxury Experiences

The Luxury Meetings District includes Bellagio Las Vegas, ARIA Resort & Casino, Vdara Hotel & Spa, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Park MGM and NoMad Las Vegas. It totals 10,000 guest rooms, 926,500 sq. ft. of indoor-outdoor meeting space, 44 restaurants, 16 pools and 19 unique venues. Now all this meeting abundance is easier to access than ever. A new interior walkway connecting Vdara, Bellagio, and The Cosmopolitan, opened this October for a seamless attendee experience–guests can now walk from Park MGM to Bellagio in around 15 minutes.

New on the scene in the Bellagio Las Vegas, ARIA Resort & Casino is Cathedrale at ARIA, TAO Group’s upscale establishment specializing in exquisite French-Mediterranean cuisine offering elevated private dining experiences that opened in May. Proper Eats also opened this year, with the promise to deliver an unparalleled event experience with its eclectic and sophisticated food hall, including Easy’s Cocktail Lounge, a velvet-seated speakeasy. Located on the second floor of ARIA by the convention center, Proper Eats is the ideal location for attendees to grab meals before, during, and after their sessions.

Heralded by World’s Best 50 Restaurants, GQ and VOGUE, LPM at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is opening this fall and will deliver its signature spontaneity and imaginative celebration of France’s Mediterranean cuisine, art, and culture to the unique luxury resort in impeccable fashion.

A “New Wave” for Mandalay Bay

A new wave of enhancements and experiences has arrived at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, including Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar, an 8,445-square-foot restaurant that opened this June, perfect for pre-and post-game eats and drinks. The event planner’s favorite, Chef Michael Mina’s StripSteak, received a full renovation and now includes one of the largest private dining rooms on The Strip. Retro by Voltaggio debuts a one-year residency with a fun take on pop culture of the 80s and 90s with classic American dishes. An exciting addition planned for 2024 is Swingers, a 40,000-square-foot oasis of street food, miniature golf, and art at Mandalay Bay.

Most exciting for meeting planners, the 2.1 million-square-foot Mandalay Bay Convention Center is undergoing a complete refresh, with lightened space, added eye-catching art, and improved technology infrastructure for even more flexible space. Energy-efficient digital signage now leads the way with faster internet speeds and new AV options.

Encore is the on-site AV team, and they offer everything from certified riggers to CAD and 3D rendering designers. The dedicated staff overall are the stars of the show. From the leadership team and convention services managers to the front desk personnel, everyone is empowered to anticipate guest needs and do what it takes to enable a successful event.

Salvador “Sal” Munoz, a convention concierge at Mandalay Bay has risen from support roles to his cherished position as convention concierge at Mandalay Bay. He loves working with meeting professionals to understand their needs on a personal level and deliver, even if it means going to another department to get a specific type of bowl for the registration table or connecting them with another hotel that can get that coveted dinner and show reservation. “My superpower is listening,” he said.

Munoz can attest that groups are loving the redesign at Mandalay Bay Convention Center North. “The property is stunning,” he said. But what he really loves is the supportive team and the ability to work closely with clients to realize their vision.

From renovated guest rooms and meeting spaces to celebrated dining options and dedicated teams, MGM Resorts has been investing in supporting meeting professionals so they can deliver the best program possible.

Jaye Moreau and Beth Haddock

Smart Moves Headshots of Jaye Moreau, catering sales and service manager (left) and Beth Haddock, destination wedding and sales manager (right) at Koloa Landing Resort — Jaye Moreau (left) and Beth Haddock (right), Kōloa Landing Resort

Luxury Kaua’i resort, Kōloa Landing Resort, has appointed Moreau as destination weddings and sales manager. She brings over 10 years of experience in hospitality sales and marketing and a specialty in weddings, milestone anniversary celebrations, reunions and more special events. In this new role, she will optimize the resort’s growing wedding market. She has held earlier positions at Kaua’i Marriott Beach Resort, Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa and The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua.

Haddock also joins the team as catering sales and service manager. She will oversee all catering and planning for locally catered events. Haddock brings over 35 years of leadership experience in the industry, including roles in restaurant operations, sales and marketing, banquet functions, special events and more. She most recently served as general manager and managing partner for Pietro Po’ipū.

Leslie Bloznalis Ellis

Leslie Bloznalis Ellis, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Bloznalis Ellis is director of group and catering sales at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. She began with the Marriott brand in 2007 at Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club and excelled in a number of positions before moving to Tampa Marriott Water Street in 2013. As assistant director of sales for the Water Street Collection, she led her team to the South Sales Team of the Year in 2021. In her new role, she will oversee all sales for the hotel’s group events.

Reneka Edwards and Zack Laws

Headshots of Reneka Edwards, citywide sales executive (left) and Zack Laws, director of sales (right) at Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau — Reneka Edwards (left) and Zack Laws (right), Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau

Edwards joins Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau (ACVB) as citywide sales executive. She brings over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Most recently, she worked as senior sales manager at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. She has also worked across various market segments in a number of cities, including Los Angeles, Washington, D.C. and New Orleans. In her new role, she will manage groups ranging from 750 rooms or more, on peak.

ACVB has also promoted Laws to the role of director of sales. He will oversee the department’s daily operations and continue to manage ACVB’s efforts to secure large-scale sporting events with Atlanta Sports Council. He joined ACVB in 2010 as citywide sales manager, adding to his over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry.

Michael Rose

Michael Rose, Springfield, Missouri, Convention and Visitors Bureau

Rose joins Springfield, Missouri, Convention and Visitors Bureau as marketing manager. He will supervise and implement marketing strategies and creative content management and will maintain all digital platforms. Throughout his career, he has managed multiple projects at world-class Missouri attractions, including Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in Lampe and Top of The Rock in Ridgedale.

Will Brandon

Will Brandon, Alila Ventana Big Sur

Alila Ventana Big Sur appoints Brandon as area director of sales and marketing. He brings over a decade of experience in the luxury hospitality industry and a dedication to creating a culture of well-being, diversity, equity and inclusion. Brandon will lead the property’s commercial operations, including sales, strategy, marketing efforts, events and brand management alongside stakeholder communication and collaboration.

Rafael Torres and Jamie Choi

Headshots of Rafael Torres, general manager (left) and Jamie Choi, director of sales and marketing (right) at 'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach — Rafael Torres (left) and Jamie Choi (right)

Torres is appointed as general manager at ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach. He will draw on a career of over 29 years in hospitality, with roles across the world, including in China, Costa Rica and Mauritius in addition to the United States. He most recently served as director of operations and interim general manager at Fairmont Hotel Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, where he oversaw a multi-million-dollar renovation.

Choi joins ‘Alohiliani Resort Waikiki Beach as director of sales and marketing. With over two decades of experience in the industry, she will oversee the resort’s sales and marketing efforts and drive strategic growth and maximize revenue. She most recently served as director of sales and marketing at The Laylow, Autograph Collection on Oahu, and earlier numerous director of sales roles. Pyramid Global Hospitality awarded her with “Biggest Market Share Increase” in 2022.

Antonio Morales

Antonio Morales, The Steward

Morales joins The Steward as general manager. Drawing on over 10 years of hospitality experience, he will provide strategic business development for the recently opened Southern California property. He has a track record of providing exceptional leadership in guest services, food and beverage and hotel operations while improving revenues from the top to the bottom line. Most recently, Morales served as opening general manager at Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown.

Tricia Taylor

Tricia Taylor, The Breakers Palm Beach

Taylor will serve as president of The Breakers Palm Beach. She has worked at The Breakers for 27 years, and in this new role, will oversee all aspects of resort operations, its off-site businesses and its commitment to its 2,300 team members, and will report directly to the CEO. Taylor is passionate about the opportunity for stewardship of a people-first organization and for making a difference in the lives of her team, guests and the surrounding community. She is the first woman to hold this position in the company’s history.

Kerry Lambert and Heather Black Cosgrove

Headshots of Kerry Lambert, chief executive officer (left) and Heather Black Cosgrove, vice president of account management (right) at Soundings — Kerry Lambert (left) and Heather Black Cosgrave (right), Soundings

Soundings, a platform for connecting organizations with independent talent in the events, hospitality and nonprofit sectors, appoints Lambert as chief operating officer (COO). She is committed to nurturing talent and fostering inclusive growth. During her time at Cvent, she expanded her team to a workforce spanning North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. She is recognized for co-leading Cvent’s Women in Leadership Initiative.

Cosgrave is promoted to the role of vice president of account management. She earlier served as Soundings’ director of customer success and account management and has been a key player in the company’s operational success in multiple departments. She is committed to creating a culture of excellence and propelling revenue growth through a focus on customer engagement.

Rosie Karakan

Rosie Karakan, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay appoints Karakan as director of sales and marketing. She brings over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, most recently having served as area director of sales and marketing for Dream Hotel Group in Los Angeles. She will lead sales efforts for both domestic and international markets with a focus on leisure and group bookings as she works to enhance the property’s visibility and growth.

how to handle angry attendees

Despite the obnoxious behavior, loud shouting, screeching voices, clenching fists, pointing fingers, red faces and all, most irate attendees have a sad message. Most likely they are trying to tell you that they are feeling hurt, ignored, disrespected, unappreciated and unloved.

It’s easy to get flustered or upset when you’re confronted with an angry attendee; and, if you don’t know how to respond, you can easily make the situation worse. However, when you respond calmly and with empathy, you can stay in control, and you can defuse the situation in a professional, courteous way. It’s important to know how to deal with angry/irate attendees.

1. Listen. Responding to their needs calmly and emphatically can serve as the key to getting more cooperation from emotionally agitated people. In tough situations, the issue at hand isn’t usually the actual issue. How an issue is handled becomes the actual issue.

2. Acknowledge their anger. Empathy is powerful. If an attendee expresses anger and you fail to react to it they feel like they aren’t getting through, that you’re not listening. Think about how you would feel in a similar situation. Acknowledge their anger as well as respond to it. You can react to anger with a statement like, “obviously you’re annoyed and I would like you to know that getting to the bottom of this is just as important to me as it is to you.” Or “I think I understand what is going on here, but feel free to correct me”.

3. Ask questions. Do not assign any blame or argue. Once you have an understanding of the situation, try to avoid making excuses or defending your actions (or those of your team or organization). Defensiveness can make others feel even angrier than they are already. Instead, ask what you can do to resolve the situation and make things right. You need to show the attendee that, as an employee and as the face of your organization, you are invested in solving the problem.

4. Suggest alternatives. Solicit what the irate attendee wants from you. You want to keep moving the situation along in a productive way. After the person expresses what he or she wants, decide what you’re able to do and say so. Think outside the box. You can stay within your organization’s guidelines and still come up with an alternative. They will view it as a sign of respect and an indication that you are listening to their specific concerns.

5. Apologize. Say “I’m sorry”. It may not be your fault. In all likelihood, it is not your fault in any way, but apologizing without laying blame will better position you to act in a manner that your attendee perceives to be in their best interest.

6. Solve the problem. Take everything you have learned about the situation in preparation for this final step. At this time both you and your attendee share a strong desire to find a solution. If you need help while you are solving the problem, find it. Regardless of how a problem is solved, getting it done quickly is necessary in bringing this irate attendee around. Then, provide the attendee your contact information if they have any questions or lingering problems.

Disengage and don’t take it personally. So, what is needed in the presence of a hot-headed person? A cool-headed person! When you feel your blood start to boil in response to their anger, take a deep breath and remember that you are the master of your emotions. Prepare yourself in advance:

Before the encounter tell yourself:
• ‘I can handle this. It may be rough, but I can do it.’
• ‘If I feel myself getting upset, I’ll know what to do.’

During the encounter tell yourself:
• ‘Be calm, relax, and breathe.’
• ‘Stay calm, I am not taking this personally.’
• ‘I must look and act calm.’

After the encounter tell yourself:
• ‘I did a good job. I can do this. I’m getting better at this.’
• ‘I felt a little perturbed, but I didn’t lose my cool.’

John Tschohl is an international service strategist and speaker. He is founder and president of the Service Quality Institute in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Described by Time and Entrepreneur magazines as a customer service guru, he has written several books on customer service including Moving Up. The Service Quality Institute has developed more than 26 customer service training programs including Remember Me, that have been distributed and presented throughout the world. John’s monthly strategic newsletter is available online at no charge. He can also be reached on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

New Properties and Meeting Space in Some of Europe’s Most Desirable Destinations

Building an incentive experience? A small meeting? A corporate retreat?

You probably have “find an exciting destination” at the top of your list.

These new and renovated spaces offer a variety of options for any one of these types of meetings, but they all check off that essential item: your attendees will be thrilled when they know where they’re headed.

Off the Coast of Paradise

The pool at Paradisus Salinas Lanzarote — The Pool at Paradisus Salinas Lanzarote

Meliá Hotels International’s luxury resort brand, Paradisus by Meliá, opens its latest space, Paradisus Salinas Lanzarote. Renowned Spanish architect Fernando Higueras designed this adults-only resort, which features 282 rooms and villas and a 19,000 sq. ft. swimming pool.

It’s perfect for incentive meetings with an oceanside twist. The island resort offers direct beach access to experience the Spanish coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. The island of Lanzarote is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Guests at the resort will relish the opportunity to take in the beaches of Costa Teguise and charming nearby villages.

Picturesque tropical gardens designed by César Manrique are spread across the property. Guests can enjoy their choice of seven distinct, onsite dining options and an array of delightful dishes built around local culinary traditions. The resort’s wellness and experiences program offer opportunities like cycling classes at the beach studio, and infuse the destination’s local culture into an all-inclusive resort experience.

Read More: Incentives Mean Experiences

Infinity Pool, Infinity Views

View of the Aegean Sea from The Belvedere at Cali Mykonos — The Belvedere at Cali Mykonos

Cali Mykonos, a luxury resort located in Kalafati beach in Greece, has unveiled a brand new event space, The Belvedere. Up to 120 guests seated and 140 standing enjoy expansive views of the Aegean Sea. An expert concierge team works with you to arrange a tailored group meeting or event.

Outside of the meeting room, the resort offers 40 suites for a blissful oceanside hideaway. Guests can enjoy a 130-meter main infinity pool, a private beach and two private boats for charter, also available for meeting groups. There’s no shortage of wellness offerings, either. The onsite fitness center offers help from personal trainers and fitness instructors, and guests can even book in-suite spa treatments.

Dine at The Restaurant at Cali for breakfast, lunch and dinner or grab bites at the pool bar. If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, discover one onsite that unites traditional Greek dishes with a modern gastronomic flair. Meetings and events can also enjoy private group dining offerings.

Incentive Like Never Before

A sitting room at new and renovated Inspirato Lusso Moderno — Inspirato Lusso Moderno

Luxury travel subscription company Inspirato unveils one of its newest accommodations in Florence, Italy: Lusso Moderno. The 5,500 sq. ft. modern townhouse style villa offers four bedrooms and is a 10-minute walk from iconic attractions like the Duomo and Sant’Ambrogio Market.

While residing at this exclusive retreat, guests enjoy access to an outdoor pool, lush gardens and rooftop terrace that offers expansive views of the historic city. A dedicated Care team helps with expert travel planning, on-site concierge service and even assistance securing dining reservations—though the accommodation also houses a full chef-grade kitchen with a 12-burner range and two ovens, as well as two separate dining areas with seating for up to 12 guests in a formal setting and eight in the kitchen. Additional space on the property includes two sitting rooms, one of which is fitted with a projector and screen.

Designed by renowned Italian architect James Cavagnari, the villa features a grand, floating spiral staircase and an eclectic selection of paintings and sculptures spread throughout each space. Brimming with personality, it’s ideal for a private, intimate small group, incentive or corporate retreat.

What One Thing? podcast guests share what they are thankful for

Showing genuine appreciation makes the world go round. Research from the Greater Good Science Center at University of California, Berkeley, found that gratitude was the “social glue” to building and nurturing strong relationships—and it feels good, too.

Noticing the positive in our world and expressing it boosts self-esteem and makes everyone feel more connected and happy by enhancing the power of positive recall. We asked What One Thing? podcast guests from this year to share their gratitude habits so we can all elevate our recognition.

Marin Bright, founder and CEO, Smart Meetings

Gratitude Note: I am grateful for my creative team that continues to wow every month and grateful to be in an industry that allows deeper connections and enables us to bring our authentic selves.

Visible Thanks: I manifest gratitude by writing in my gratitude journal every night. I also make a conscious effort to thank people every day.

Carina Bauer, CEO, IMEX Group

Gratitude Note: I am grateful for the industry that we work in and the IMEX team. Every year, every month, every show we face new challenges; but knowing that I am never alone and that I have great people and friends to rely on allows me to face these challenges with energy and a growth mindset. The IMEX team helps to boost me every day—I always look forward to being in the office, learning from their skills and trusting them fully to bring amazing ideas to life that benefit our shows and the industry.

Finally, I’m grateful that I’m able to mix my work with my passion for travel—we really are very lucky in our industry!

Visible Thanks: I hope I express my gratitude by remembering to say thank you enough to all the people around me. I think I also show my gratitude by dealing with people with respect and kindness and always trying my best for them.

Binge Watch all the episodes and subscribe to be the first to know when a new podcast drops

Lisa Messina, chief sales officer, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority

Gratitude Note: “I am thankful for the tremendous community I get to work with every day. We work hard to execute on our customer’s vision, and we do it as a team!”

Visible Thanks: “I express my gratitude by writing hand-written notes. I also like to shout from the rooftops about someone who has gone above and beyond so they are recognized above and beyond me.”

Robert Strong, speaker, entertainer, author, “Amaze & Delight: Secrets to Creating Magic in Business”

Gratitude Note: I deeply appreciate the metaphorical doors that have closed in front of me, the myriad ungranted opportunities in my life, and all of my career rejections. Each instance has played a pivotal role in my personal and entrepreneurial growth, offering valuable insights, fortifying resilience, and instilling a nuanced appreciation for learning from failure. These experiences not only strengthened my character but also propelled my development, instilling a profound gratitude for the transformative power inherent in setbacks.

Visible Thanks: Expressing gratitude to friends, family, and clients is integral. I do so through acts of kindness, sincere communication, genuine curiosity, sharing experiential knowledge and fostering long-term connections. This symbiotic approach, grounded in the belief that collective thriving catalyzes prosperity and development for all, underscores my commitment to mutually beneficial relationships.

Debra Fine, keynote speaker, trainer and bestselling author, “The Fine Art of Small Talk”

Gratitude Note: My gratitude for ongoing, long-term relationships is a constant in my life—business, social and romantic! As I enjoy almost 30 years of a second marriage I have learned how rewarding it is to invest in a lifetime partnership. The same goes for the relationships cultivated with our blended family of now adult children, their spouses and our grandchildren.

And so many friends who are there for me, who I travel with, have fun with, share history with. More than 30 years as a member of Rotary International has brought me joy in community and service side by side with like-minded people, relationships I value dearly.

Lastly, gratitude for professional relationships. Just last week I received a referral thanks to a booking in 2012. How great is that? And my work yesterday was thanks to a fellow keynote speaker recommending me during his work last year for the same conference. The gratitude I have for the opportunity to build relationships for so many years that puts me in a wonderful position to gain business, make referrals and help others. Heck, I am very thankful for Smart Meetings for thinking of me for this piece, a relationship I treasure.

All these relationships require attention and consideration. Cultivating connections in all realms of life is what I am most grateful for today and every day.

Fostering an even better tech world in Wichita

When FlagshipKansas.Tech was created in 2018, the creators behind the technology council recognized the importance of bringing together diverse voices within Kansas’ tech sector. “This meant bringing together innovators, educators, thinkers and practitioners from various technology disciplines,” says Ben Sebree, board chair for FlagshipKansas.Tech.

“Our initial planning phase revealed the perfect chance to start planning in 2021, which set the stage for our inaugural summit the following year. Thanks to the exceptional backing from the Kansas Department of Commerce, Wichita State University and others, we were able to capitalize on our 2022 achievements and expand the event’s scope in 2023.”

Wichita, where the tech summit takes place, is home to one of the largest concentrations of engineers in the nation, and, Sebree says, where there are engineers, innovation is never far behind. “This has allowed tech companies like NetApp to flourish in Kansas, alongside a tech sector comprised 98% of companies with fewer than 500 employees, succeeding quietly without the ostentation, capital or hubris of Silicon Valley.

“But perhaps the most remarkable aspect is that Kansas and Wichita achieve all this while adhering to a core value system that fosters a workforce with an unmatched work ethic and intellect dedicated to bettering the world, rather than self-enrichment.”

Wichita: An Innovation Incubator

two men on stage talking — Apple Co-founder Steve Wozniak on left

Sebree and Luis Rodriguez, board immediate past chairs for FlagshipKansas.Tech, helped lead the development of Flagship’s Ad Astra Tech Summit. Its second annual event just took place on Oct. 2, bringing together technology innovators, educators and practitioners from various disciplines within the industry.

“It’s crucial to acknowledge that while the [technological] shift was already in progress, the advent of Covid-19 hastened the realization that, firstly, every sector has become intertwined with technology; and secondly, technology is driven by people, not confined by location,” Sebree says.

Rodriguez says this is where the unique spirit of the people in Kansas and Wichita shine. “To much of the country, Kansas and Wichita might seem like a quaint backdrop, often overshadowed by the vibrant innovation hubs like the Bay Area or New England—a misconception likely fueled by the film industry,” he says. “However, the reality is that Kansas and Wichita have been cradles of significant global innovation for more than a hundred years.”

He went on to name various creations born out of the city, like the hamburger. It is the founding location of establishments like Kings X, White Castle and Pizza Hut. Kansas has also been a major player in aerospace technology, home to companies like Airbus, Spirit AeroSystems and Textron.

Changing the Attendee Experience

people in conference room

“When organizing the 2022 summit, our team and leadership decided to prioritize the complete attendee experience,” Sebree says. “We faced the challenge of engaging professionals from a wide array of disciplines, each with their distinct needs, skills, perspectives and access to technology. This required us to offer a differentiated experience at the summit. We understood the importance of facilitating dialogue among these diverse professionals.”

In Ad Astra’s first year, the team approached the attendee experience a bit differently, offering separate tracks for sessions based on each individual’s discipline. They later realized how restrictive this approach was. “We observed that this approach somewhat restricted cross-disciplinary interaction and learning,” Sebree says.

“In response, for the second year, we shifted to an open schedule format. While we continued to organize sessions around key disciplines, we gave attendees the freedom to choose from the entire range of sessions. This adjustment significantly enhanced attendee satisfaction, surpassing our expectations set by the already successful first year.”

Ad Astra’s Goal

Rodriguez says every technological challenge fundamentally stems from the same underlying issues. “We now inhabit an era where a workforce lacking proficiency in Computer Science and computational algorithmic thinking cannot prosper. The economic engines of contemporary and future businesses and employment, which fuel a community’s financial well-being, are interwoven with technology,” he says.

He adds that Ad Astra Technology Summit was designed to bridge the gap between influencers and the various components necessary for fostering technological acumen. “It aims to be an accelerant for supporting digital transformation and innovation across Kansas and Wichita.”

Making Next Year Better

two women talking in front on group

“I imagine every organizer would advise this, but begin planning sooner and constantly refine the experience,” Sebree says, when listing the things he learned from this year that could make for a better tech summit in 2024. Other lessons he and his team learned are:

Create structured opportunities for networking and peer-to-peer learning.
Don’t try to pack too much into the day. When it comes to sessions, quality trumps quantity.
You’re never going to please every palate, but it’s always worth it to budget for better food.

Beyond this, he says, there’s always something that doesn’t go according to plan, but it likely isn’t worth stressing over. As an example, Sebree says, they encountered audio issues in Charles Koch Arena during Apple Co-founder Steve Wozniak’s keynote fireside chat.

“As a nonprofit, AV was a big expense, and we opted to use the in-house audio,” he says. “We found that an arena sound system works for sporting events but wasn’t ideal for our setup. Lesson learned. Additionally, there were some delays with presentations in the breakout sessions. Next year, we plan to schedule time for speakers to test their presentations in advance to minimize any issues.”

As the year winds down to the close, and the holiday season takes center stage, it’s prime time to look back at the past year: all its ups, all its downs, all its successes and moments of joy.

Smart Meetings heard from industry leaders as they shared what they are grateful for—in their lives, as well as in their illustrious careers. Alongside sharing all they had to be grateful for, these professionals spoke to how they each take the time to practice gratitude and relish in the joy of their lives and work.

Victoria Matey

Event Psychology Advisor, Matey Events

What are you grateful for in your life?

I’m grateful for the family and friends I have been blessed with.

What are you grateful for in your career?

In my career, it’s the incredible people I’ve met throughout my time in events. Their continuous and amazing support is something I’m truly grateful for. Without them, major achievements would be quite a challenge. And honestly, any success wouldn’t feel as meaningful without these fantastic individuals around me.

How do you practice gratitude?

I practice gratitude by saying “thank you” to appreciate someone’s kindness or efforts, by trying to shift my perspective to see the positive side whenever faced with challenges and by acknowledging my own progress. I believe that being kind to others starts with being kind to myself, which contributes to self-esteem and fosters a mindset of gratitude.

Desireé Dolecki, CMP

Desireé Dolecki

Director, Conferences & Events, Association for Manufacturing Excellence

What are you grateful for in your life?

I am very grateful for my family and friends, and I appreciate that I can be myself with them. I have a husband, who is a wonderful partner, and we have an amazing daughter. I cherish the time we get to spend together at home, as well as the time we take to travel together to experience other cultures through food, music and traditions. I appreciate my family’s sense of humor, and how we do not take each other—or ourselves—too seriously. We enjoy lots of laughs, hugs and fun every day. I am thankful for our health and acknowledge that we must take care of ourselves in mind, body and spirit. I appreciate that we can provide ourselves with healthy meals and a warm, safe place to live and sleep.

What are you grateful for in your career?

In my career, I am very grateful for my team members. They are supportive, hard-working, reliable, responsive and just fun to be with. We collaborate well together and lean on each other as needed based on individual strengths.

At AME, we start each board meeting by sharing gratitude. I appreciate that we take the time to do this. I am grateful that my job allows me to work within a remote environment, which gives me more family time. I have the opportunity to shape our annual conference, creating event spaces where attendees can share, learn and grow. I am encouraged to continuously improve which means we never settle for the status quo!

How do you practice gratitude?

I try my best to practice gratitude daily. A simple thank you, even for a small act, can go a long way. At the end of each day, I take the time to reflect on the positive, so I wake up ready, optimistic and encouraged for the next day!

I let my team members know they are appreciated and acknowledge their efforts and contributions. I make sure I am available anytime they need me, even to just listen. At home, there are lots of hugs and constant reminders of how much I love and appreciate my family. Even though my daughter is a teenager, I read to her every night so we can both enjoy a good story and our time together. In our community, I volunteer at our local food pantry.

Rachel Aden, CMP

Rachel Aden

Senior Account Manager, Arrowhead Conferences

What are you grateful for in your life?

I’m grateful for so much! Besides the obvious family and friends, I’m grateful for the things that don’t seem to make sense, such as when things don’t go as planned (which isn’t the easiest for a professional planner!).

I try to focus on being intentional in seeing the good in all situations. Like most people, I’ve experienced hardships. I’ve learned to be thankful for these trials, as experience has taught me that amazing things always result from them, even if I don’t understand why they are happening.

When my marriage fell apart, my world turned upside down. After realizing there was nothing I could do to fix the marriage, I focused on trusting God and being thankful for whatever he was going to do in my life. I believed that he was not only going to bless me in the future, but I also saw how he was blessing me in the midst of it.

My relationships with my family and friends became much deeper, and I learned and grew throughout the process. As a result, I became more mentally healthy and mature. I also chose to become physically healthier and am so grateful for all of it. No matter what life throws our way, we all have the choice to become bitter or better, and I’m so grateful that I’ve seen the benefits of choosing to become better.

What are you grateful for in your career?

I get the opportunity to work with Christian ministries, which is extremely rewarding and provides so much purpose. And the best part is that I get to do it with a team who feel the same way. I’m not only in awe of the knowledge and abilities of my colleagues and am constantly motivated to pull my own weight as I don’t want to be the weak link, but I’m also in awe of their hearts.

We all have a deep passion for serving ministries and we genuinely care for each other like family. We pray for each other as well as our ministry and industry partners each week, and our desire is to do what we can to help ministries accomplish their goals of sharing God’s love with everyone in the world. We’ve seen God bless us so many times, not only during the pandemic, where we didn’t need to furlough anyone on our team, but also by leading us to grow and start new initiatives. I’m personally so grateful that God has led me on this path to be a part of something so big and meaningful.

How do you practice gratitude?

My highest goal in life is to be a light to others. Along with keeping the big picture in mind, I try to use that as my guide in the choices I make. When I’m presented with an opportunity, I ask myself if it accomplishes that purpose, and if so, I try to take advantage of it.

Life is short and we only have one to live, and I desire to make the most of it. I enjoy mentoring and I get great fulfillment when I can lift others up. I’m not afraid to be real and transparent if it can encourage someone. I look for these opportunities, and it seems like I’m always the one who is blessed through them!

Tarin Horan, CMP, CSEP

Tarin Horan

Vice President, Events and Sponsorships, Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC)

What are you grateful for in your life?

I am grateful for my family and my health. My husband and I have two sons (13 and 12) that keep us on our toes. I love to see the world through their eyes. This summer we traveled to Seattle and Vancouver and had a ball. We toured the cities, tasted a lot of donuts on the underground donut tour (highly recommend you try one) and took in the beautiful scenery of the Pacific Northwest. As my boys grow up, they will be less interested in hanging out with Mom, so this trip and time with them was priceless.

Being in events, I am an early riser and hit Orangetheory Fitness for a 6 a.m. class five days a week. Some mornings it is hard to get out of bed, but then I think about how lucky I am to go workout. I am so fortunate that my body can run, row and lift. It is the best hour of my day. I don’t have to think—I just follow the coach’s direction.

What are you grateful for in your career?

I love what I do. Every day is different and that is perfect for me.

One of the many things I do is collaborate with our different event steering committees. These committees are comprised of event sponsors and subject matter experts. These individuals are truly amazing. Many of them are c-suite, and they volunteer their time to help me curate the content for our events. I am so fortunate to know them, work with them and call many of them my friends.

I am grateful for my team. We work hard, and together we produce award-winning events.

My right-hand woman has been on my team for the past eight years, and I am thankful for her. Together, we pivoted our events to virtual during the pandemic, and then back to in person after the pandemic. We challenge each other to think outside the box and to create new experiences for our members. The broader team at NVTC is always willing to help set up or take down after our events. It truly is refreshing to have their support on event days.

How do you practice gratitude?

There are a few ways I practice gratitude. First, at OrangeTheory, I love to encourage the person next to me. They could be trying OrangeTheory for the first time, or maybe they are just struggling that day, for whatever reason. A high-five or a “Keep going, you can do it!” can go a long way.

At work, you will always see me with a smile on my face. I love to see our members at our events and greet them with a big smile and welcome. I am grateful that they are at our events and part of our organization. Without them, we wouldn’t still be here.

Constance “Connie” Samuels, MBA, CMP, DES

Constance Samuels

Director, Events & Education, National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO)

What are you grateful for in your life?

There isn’t enough time to truly express everything I am grateful for in my life. However, at the center of my gratitude, I am incredibly thankful for my amazing circle of family and friends and the gift of life.

The end of every year is always a time of introspection for me with the Thanksgiving holiday, adding another candle to my cake (December birthday!), Christmas and the impending New Year. I often scroll through my photo album to look back on the wonderful moments I’ve had over the past year—and realize how incredibly blessed I am.

What are you grateful for in your career?

I have a fulfilling career and work for a wonderful organization that is supportive of all my goals.

How do you practice gratitude?

Expressing and practicing gratitude comes with repetition and intentionally. I express my gratitude aloud—as verbally communicating my gratitude holds more weight to me than just simply “feeling” it.

While my life is not perfect, I often remind myself to “be thankful for what you have, while you strive for everything you want.”

“My mother [Joyce] and late father, Melvin, always believed that I was meant for something greater, and that there would be room for my leadership, my Blackness and my approach. They instilled in me a relentless belief that I belonged at the table—and, trust me, I needed their unconditional love and support,” says Melva LaJoy Legrand, CMP.

Legrand is the founder and CEO of LaJoy Plans, a Washington, D.C. event planning firm that organizes custom events for mission-focused organizations and individuals.

Becoming an Event Professional

While her formal education background is centered around history, education and administration, which she originally studied with the goal of entering a career in academia and research, Legrand quickly found it was not her most authentic space. “I set out to figure out who I wanted to be in the world. When I did that, event planning and I found each other.”

She attributes much of her present success to a number of incredible mentors who taught her to navigate the professional world. “While it is not easy, through their example, I was trained to navigate a workforce that still, sadly, has remnants of racism, sexism and what we now call microaggressions,” she says. “Because of them, I am poised and prepared…I am a better manager, writer…a comprehensive and well-rounded events professional. As the phrase goes, ‘I Am because of Them.’”

Advocates and allies played just as important a role. “Despite pressure to hire someone who does not share my racial identity, [they] gave me a fair chance to win work. I cannot say thank you enough to allies who opened doors for me because they believed in my talent.”

Preparing for the Exam

Legrand had known about the CMP designation for years as an event professional. But she struggled to make time to study and prepare. Finally, she came to a key understanding: “Ultimately, if you want to thrive in this industry, you cannot rest on what you know—you have to work to become a constant learner and student, because our industry is always evolving.”

It’s all about getting out there and putting in the work to get where you want to be. Legrand says, “Do not delay your continuing education because of the busyness of work. Work will always be there. One of the best ways to become more efficient in your work is to study and gain a deeper level of mastery.”

As she studied for the CMP exam, Legrand found indispensable “the encouragement of others who had already achieved the milestone.”

She says, “I want anyone who is reading this to know it is okay to study with others, ask for help and ask for guidance from current CMPs. If you don’t know anyone,” she says, “No problem.” She offers that interested future CMPs can reach out to her.

She loved studying in groups, and when she needed to study by herself, she read and made cue cards to test herself. “I do not think there is value in over-studying or ‘analysis paralysis.’ Rather, it is perfectly fine to say, ‘Okay, I understand this,’ and then work on where you may be weaker,” she explains.

The Value of the CMP

Legrand says that there are countless parts of the events industry that inspire her. New and emerging professionals, whose new ways of thinking and approaching work, push her out of her comfort zone and drive her to grow. The industry remains courageously committed to DEI. Events allow organizations she cares about to reach others.

As the events industry continues to evolve, she imagines the CMP will drive further growth in sustainability efforts and professionals’ understanding of how to use emerging technology tools like AI.

When it comes to her CMP designation, Legrand says, “Credentials are a bonus.” The CMP designation adds validity to her professional prowess. “Even though I have graduate degrees in another industry, [the CMP designation shows] that I consciously made the choice, despite decades of experience, to pursue this and other credentials. I want people to know that I am not relying on my tenure in the industry. I am still very curious, and I still have a lot to learn.”

Where Is She Now?

She started out in the lowest of roles, unpaid, doing production, festivals, exhibition and concert stage management for a radio station—and says that it gave her a unique perspective and the opportunity to learn every job, “to make mistakes and to really find out and define my specialty.” Now, she operates her own company with a passionate team. “For me,” she says, “events are a way that I can contribute to the world and leave it a little better than I found it.”

“Unfortunately,” she says, “I am a coffee addict.” With her coffee in hand, on an event day, Legrand uses WhatsApp to keep in touch with her team on a moment’s notice, but they’ve already prepared with a Know-Before-You-Go meeting, where they cover all internal event materials, critical logistics and a briefing packet about the client and key stakeholders and insight into their personalities, wish lists and hot buttons. After closing an event, her team assembles a detailed after-action report that involves sending thank you notes to clients, summarizing areas to celebrate and noting lessons learned for the future.

Events with LaJoy Plans

She has been an event professional for over 20 years, and, she says, every year brings something memorable. “I am humbled by the equity and advocacy of our New York-based client, Avenues for Justice, who have been doing advocacy work for over 41 years.” Just recently, her company organized one of its events that raised college tuition funds for a young man who had recently lost his parents. “You could not leave this event without feeling like this gathering was something bigger.”

She also recently served as a creative partner for D.C.-based school, The VIVA School of Dance, at its Envision Gala, held at the Smithsonian National African American Museum of History and Culture. “This event was an immersive experience in Black joy, Black excellence, diversity of art and the power of art in reconciliation and healing,” she says. “These two events remind me how important it is to use my gift of event planning to help mission-forward organizations thrive.

“Then, when I consider that I get to do this work as a mature, Black, female, independently funded business owner, I hope it sends a clear signal to the next generation that representation matters and that there is space for all of us in this industry.”

With both charming history and exciting innovation, SF attracts writers

San Francisco has long inspired writers, musicians, artists and other creative types to flock to The City by the Bay and relish in the fog, the food and the diverse culture. Many prolific American writers have called San Francisco home at one time or another, and the trend continues today. Talented modern-day authors have found a passion in writing about both San Francisco’s history and its promising future. Inspired by a city that has always been on the forefront of social progression and business innovation, writers are paying attention to see what San Francisco is going to do next. Smart Meetings sat down with Jill K. Robinson, author of “San Francisco Scavenger: The Ultimate Search for San Francisco’s Hidden Treasures” and Alec Scott, author of “Oldest San Francisco: A Guide to Historic Treasures” to learn more about what inspired their works, and what hidden gems of the city meeting professionals and attendees can discover in The City by The Bay.

“I really did want to focus on historic and modern to really tie together those elements of San Francisco that appeal to everyone.”

– Jill K. Robinson, author of “San Francisco Scavenger: The Ultimate Search for San Francisco’s Hidden Treasures”

The Authors

San Francisco author Jill K. Robinson — Jill K. Robinson

As a Bay Area native, Jill K. Robinson was always attracted to the bright lights and big city vibes of San Francisco. “There was something kind of magical about (San Francisco),” says Robinson. “I just always felt like if I turned a corner, I would run into something amazing, which I often did.” An avid travel writer, she is a resident of the San Francisco Writers’ Grotto and a member of several other prestigious writer’s organizations such as the Society of American Travel Writers and the American Society of Journalists and Authors.

Upon arriving in San Francisco by chance as a young college student, Ontario native Alec Scott fell in love with the city and its enclaves of historical finds. As a former lawyer, award-winning journalist and celebrated author, Scott offers a unique perspective on the plethora of industries San Francisco is known for, including food and beverage, business, the arts and technology. He has bylines in major publications such as The New York Times and Smithsonian Magazine.

San Francisco History

Scott chose to focus on the “oldest” in his book because he felt the city’s past of innovation and inspiration carrying over in its modern-day personality. “I realized that the sort of entrepreneurial energy went way back,” said Scott. “It’s the Gold Rush people who are dreamers and seekers. It’s a forward-thinking city that cares about its past.”

San Francisco vintage stamp of trolley car

Robinson agrees and shares a similar sentiment about San Francisco historically and continually proving itself as a city of progress and new ideas. “That is one of the things about San Francisco that makes it really stand out for travelers and groups,” says Robinson. “It is really known for reinventing itself. From the Gold Rush to the earthquake and fire, to the summer of love to the rise of the tech industry, all of these facets of San Francisco are quite essential to its character.”

Patchwork Quilt of Neighborhoods

San Francisco has a dynamic intersection of cultures and specific enclaves of neighborhoods that both Robinson and Scott acknowledge and celebrate in their writing. The “oldest” sites of Scott’s books are chaptered by neighborhood, as is Robinson’s scavenger hunt. Both authors organized this book with the intention to highlight how the different neighborhoods of the city create a dynamic and vibrant city filled with culture, innovation and diverse communities.

“I like describing San Francisco as quirky because it is,” says Robinson. “The book emphasizes the different neighborhoods. I think a distinct part of San Francisco is the neighborhoods, for sure.” Her book has clues for different findings all over the city, providing a perfect way for groups to get to know the unique personalities of each district. “It’s quite easy to start,” says Robinson. “Choose a starting point from a hotel or a central location and just go, whether you keep it within one neighborhood or within a few neighborhoods.”

Alamo Park and downtown San Francisco

The Food Shows the City’s Diversity

“San Francisco is food obsessed,” says Scott. “If you don’t know what to say to someone, you talk about the food.” The neighborhoods of San Francisco and their unique identities are represented in Scott’s book through discoveries such as two restaurants in the Mission District who both claim to be the first to produce the famous Mission Burrito. La Cumbre Taqueria and El Faro both claim to be the origin of the double-tortilla, almost foot long and 3-inch-wide monster burritos, but both can agree the Mission District was ground zero for what is now an internationally recognized dish.

San Francisco mission burrito

Scott was particularly inspired by the wealth of vegetarian and vegan options available and how many restaurants were dedicated solely to a meat-free cuisine. When visiting his brother who was living in the Bay Area while at the time, he experienced his first “high end ambitious vegetarian restaurant” at Greens, the oldest vegetarian restaurant, and was impressed with not only the quality of food but its globally diverse menu.

Robinson references the innovative and adaptive nature of the city as its restaurant industry was crippled by Covid. While outdoor dining began as a necessary safety measure, San Francisco’s restaurants leaned into the practice and invested in their al fresco services. “With things like that, it allows people to get out and really get to know the neighborhoods,” says Robinson.

outdoor dining at Chouquet's in San Francisco

Social Services and Community Support

Aligning with its reputation for progressive thinking and embracing diversity, perhaps one of the most surprising and inspiring aspects of Scott’s book is how many “oldest” of organizations, whether government funded or nonprofits, are dedicated to social services and/or minority communities.

The famous Haigh-Ashbury District is more than a trendy tourist destination. The first free clinic in America was founded by Dr. Dave Smith in the famous neighborhood in the 1960s. When most medical resources were denied to those who struggled with mental illness, substance abuse, homelessness and other issues considered by many to be self-induced, “Dr. Dave” opened a free clinic largely funded by many musicians and promoters of the booming San Francisco music scene. Still standing today, Scott reports over 1,200 clinics across the nation use the same model for free clinic medical practices.

Groups can tour any of the city’s many museums, but one unique to San Francisco and its progressive history is the GLBT Historical Society Museum where the first ever rainbow flag is preserved and displayed. Designed by Gilbert Baker at the request of openly gay politician Harvey Milk, the flag was an instant hit. Following Milk’s assassination, San Francisco based Paramount began mass production of the flag, yet the original has been kept as an important relic of the city’s history.

Original rainbow flag at GLBT Historical Society Museum in San Francisco

Author’s Choice

With so many attractions, historic landmarks and natural beauty highlighted in both books, it was hard for Robinson and Scott to select just one location that would be the best for a group to visit when exploring a city full of so much personality.

Golden Gate Park was a recommendation of Robinson’s, stating that even locals or travelers who have been to the park before having probably only seen a small portion of the third most visited urban park in the nation. “There is so much packed in Golden Gate Park, whether it’s a museum or a statue or the museums,” says Robinson. “I’ve even found things that were new to me that I hadn’t seen before when I was searching for places to include in the book. So, I feel like if I grew up in the Bay Area, and there were things that were new to me or things I learned more about, it’s got to be true for many others.”

Scott recommends several culturally oriented activities for groups, such the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art or Buena Vista café that is credited as bringing Irish coffee to America. Whatever the neighborhood or experience, Scott reiterates San Francisco’s legacy of creativity and innovation. “It’s dynamic, full of new ideas. It’s diverse. It’s beautiful.”

Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco, California