04/06/2020
As the coronavirus pandemic roiled the industry, we decided to reach out to see how that issue is impacting the planners who took our annual Meetings Today Trends Survey, and to see if risk management is now an increased priority. Read more.
04/06/2020
A cappella group DCappella launched the Disney’s flagship a cappella experience in 2018 with a TV debut on American Idol, when the group performed classics from The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King and Aladdin. Learn how to book them for your event.
04/03/2020
How are you coping with the coronavirus pandemic? Meetings Today’s Tyler Davidson talks with Kristine Iverson, owner and founder of wellness company CROW Practice, about strategies all of us can incorporate to calm the mind and ease the body while we navigate the global pandemic and resulting economic turmoil.
04/03/2020
Not since 9/11 has the meetings and events industry faced a crisis as severe as coronavirus, the impact of which is surpassing that national nightmare. With meetings and events cancelled on a massive scale, I thought an example of how to communicate effectively was in order. Read more.
04/02/2020
Springfield, Illinois, is home to more than Abraham Lincoln attractions. Iconic Route 66 is famous for its Americana relics, and groups can explore a few of them. Read more.
04/02/2020
How professionals in the meetings and events industry are lifting each other up during the hard times brought on by COVID-19. Read more.
04/01/2020
We’ve compiled a complete list of articles, podcast episodes and other COVID-19 coverage we have created to help you do your job with hopefully a little less stress in this trying time. See it now.
04/01/2020
The live events community formed the Live Events Coaliton and launched a petition that currently has more than 400,000 signatures, calling for the Trump administration and Congress to establish a special task force to address their concerns and provide an aid package. Read more.
04/01/2020
Daring to dream is a defining New York quality, making the Empire State a cradle of imaginative venues and experiences for a wide range of group encounters. Read more.
04/01/2020
Los Angeles is home to the most unique, top-tier venues in the country. The county has over 300 museums, blockbuster entertainment centers, numerous outdoor venues and terrain that varies from the mountaintops to the beach. For an “Only in L.A.” experience that is sure to impress, check out just a sample of these spectacular meeting venues in Los Angeles.
03/31/2020
Innovate Marketing Group produced an event at the start of the coronavirus outbreak that featured President Trump and key members of his administration. Here is what they learned and how meeting and event planners can apply it. Read more.
03/31/2020
For groups looking to escape the lights and noise of L.A., three main areas in the Inland Empire offer sunny respites packed with unique meeting spaces and a trove of group activities.
03/28/2020
Las Vegas has rebooked three events that cancelled their dates following the outbreak of COVID-9, or coronavirus, in the U.S. The expos have confirmed dates in the city for late summer and fall 2020. Read more.
03/27/2020
Tyler Davidson checks in with meetings risk management expert Brenda Rivers to talk about the free on-demand Risk Management Primer: How to Protect Your Attendees and Organization From Disaster webinar she presented for Meetings Today. Brenda talks about the current state of coronavirus meetings and events readiness as well as lessons to apply for future events.
03/27/2020
03/26/2020
Las Vegas News Bureau Archivist Kelly Luchs walks Meetings Today through the Bureau and the history of Vegas through images—plus explains how your group can partner with the Las Vegas News Bureau to cover your events present day. Read more.
03/26/2020
Join Meetings Today and Brenda Rivers, JD, certified crisis management expert and author of The Meeting and Event Risk Management Guide,* who will share the most critical yet practical steps to developing a risk management strategy for all types of events, and also critical information about dealing with the current coronavirus pandemic.
03/24/2020
Throughout Colorado’s meetings-friendly destinations, groups have many restaurants to choose from where they could unwind over a great meal. Here are eight standouts.
03/21/2020
COVID-19 has rocked the travel and meetings industries. Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson talks to Dare to Interrupt podcast host Courtney Stanley about how she and those she's talked with in the industries are navigating these turbulent times, and resources you can tap to help you cope.
03/20/2020
Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson talks with Seema Jain, director, multicultural affairs for Marriott International about the hotel giant's Culture Days program. Jain travels the world training Marriott staff on how to best serve the cultural needs of its very diverse clientele, and offers critical information to meeting planners on how they can do the same for their attendees.
03/19/2020
Get some fresh air in between meetings in Michigan. Here are some quick group activities outdoors in Detroit, Lansing, Grand Rapids and Traverse City.
03/19/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found in the East.
03/19/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found in the West.
03/19/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found in the South.
03/19/2020
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a meetings destination on the move, welcoming a convention center expansion project that will add a significant amount of meeting spaces, new meetings hotels and a variety of intriguing offsite venues within its convention district. Read more.
03/19/2020
What is the real secret behind “doing it all”? Event technology and marketing entrepreneurs Dahlia El Gazzar of DAHLIA+Agency and Shannon DeSouza of DeSouza on Demand discuss the importance of showing up, practicing gratitude, servanthood and self-care while balancing family life and running their own growing businesses.
03/18/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found around the world.
03/18/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found in Mid-America.
03/18/2020
U.S. Travel Association predicts the hit on the U.S. economy from COVID-19 will be more than six times the impact of 9/11. Leaders are asking for a government bailout. Read more.
03/17/2020
From a vintage motorcycle museum to a 33-acre garden, Birmingham, Alabama, boasts a variety of interesting meeting and event venues—and it’s ready to be your next southern destination.
03/17/2020
Meetings Today blogger Joan Eisenstodt has been participating in many of the thrice-weekly COVID-19 press conferences from the World Health Organization (WHO). Here's what she found out from the experts fighting the spread of the virus, how it impacts the meetings and events industry, and what the industry needs to learn from the crisis.
03/16/2020
Meeting in Madison? These farm-to-table restaurants bring Midwestern wholesomeness and incredible dining. Learn more.
03/16/2020
100 Course Meal is an immersive experience for up to 200 guests that is sure to leave meeting and event attendees surprised and satisfied. Read more.
03/13/2020
Meeting schedules can be complemented by spa services that give attendees a taste of a resort’s signature treatments. Reenergize them to participate in the business at hand by bringing treatments into meeting environments and out of the spa. Read more.
03/13/2020
Matt Steffen's Garden Gulf Prawn Cocktail Recipe.
03/12/2020
Many of us active in the meetings industry have faced the decision about whether to move forward with a meeting, proceed at a reduce size or cancel it altogether. Here are some essential legal, and practical, tips and strategies to better inform your decision. Read more.
03/12/2020
Understanding event success is complicated. One important factor that shouldn’t be overlooked? Attendee feedback. While budget and leads directly relate to event ROI, attendee opinions are key. But, when gathering attendee feedback, it can be challenging to figure out how to take feedback and make it have an impact. We’ll show you how to align feedback with event goals to provide actionable insights.
Attendee feedback is only as good as the questions asked. Learn the different types of feedback and what questions to ask based on event type and goals so that you get the data you need to take action.
03/11/2020
IMEX Group cancelled its IMEX Frankfurt exhibition, which was scheduled for May 12-14 in Frankfurt, Germany, due to German federal and state government concerns over the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Read more.
03/10/2020
Railroad roots, the Cuban cigar business and rich museums and gardens give the Tampa Bay, St. Pete/Clearwater and Sarasota areas unexpected charm and culture. Read more.
03/09/2020
Chefs at prominent meetings and events properties are noticing a consistent uptick in plant-based alternatives requests from attendees. Read why and dishes they’re serving.
03/08/2020
Western Canada has many industry specialties and intellectual capital that it can offer specific groups for in-depth learning and connections. Read this guide to choose the best city for your group.
03/06/2020
The Society of Independent Show Organizers partnered with UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry to launch a “This Show Is Open” campaign in an effort to stem the wave of event cancellations in the wake of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, outbreak. Read More.
03/06/2020
Danielle LeBreck and President & CEO of VISIT Milwaukee Peggy Williams-Smith talk about the event-packed year ahead for Milwaukee, new developments in the city, and all the best venues and offsites for meetings and events.
03/06/2020
Convention service managers and event managers are the glue that keeps meetings running, facilitating the relationship between sales and meeting planners. Here are some stories from veteran CSMs on their challenges, successes and why they deserve our respect. Read more.
03/05/2020
COVID-19 is fluid and complex, and due to the speed of information, there are many important pieces to the overall story that are being left out of the conversation. ALHI President & CEO Michael Dominguez shares some of the facts to battle the hysteria that is upending the meetings and events industry. Read more.
03/05/2020
Whether or not you intend to cancel your event due to the coronavirus outbreak, it's important to understand that this impacts every event right now. Here are 10 tips you can use to ensure that you are communicating effectively to those who matter. Read more.
03/04/2020
Attendee satisfaction is consistently a top metric used to measure the success of events. But do you consider the event app a key factor in determining attendee satisfaction? Attendees rate a mobile app as the third most important factor contributing to a positive attendee experience. Using an event app ensures the digital experience supports the overall event and enhances the attendee journey, while providing greater insights into attendee behaviors.
03/03/2020
Chicago’s McCormick Place—the largest convention center in North America—now diverts almost 100% of its food waste. Read on to see how.
03/03/2020
Editor's note: This information was accurate at the time of the recording, February 28, 2020. We are monitoring and updating as new information is available.
Top meetings industry attorneys Joshua L. Grimes and Tyra Warner discuss the legal issues involved with cancelling a meeting due to coronavirus. Learn how to protect your organization and what your options are—from outright cancellation to attrition—from two of the top legal minds in the industry.
03/03/2020
The spread of COVID-19, or coronavirus, has upended the travel industry as well as any facility where public gatherings are held or where a large amount of people congregate. That includes office buildings, airports and meeting and convention spaces. Implement these procedures to protect everyone in the environment.
03/03/2020
From vineyards to Mount Vernon, add to your meeting or event with these noteworthy group activities in Fairfax, Loudoun County, Alexandria and Richmond.
03/02/2020
Danielle LeBreck stops by the “All Roads Lead to Caesars Forum” road show in Minneapolis, Minnesota to catch up with Lisa Messina—VP of Sales for Caesars Entertainment—about the highly anticipated grand opening of Caesars Forum in Las Vegas in March 2020.
03/02/2020
Cubicall Custom Phone Booths are a sponsorable option that allows your audience a place to rest their feet, charge their phone and enjoy privacy for a phone call or focused work. Read more.
03/02/2020
Naturopath John Ayo has made his living on the road for more than 30 years, including as a meeting planner for IBM. Here are his tips for ensuring the health of your attendees, and yourself, at meetings. Read more.
03/02/2020
Known for its 60 miles of pristine beaches, gracious southern hospitality, and a relaxed pace, the Myrtle Beach area is where business and pleasure go hand-in-hand.
03/01/2020
A recipient of the numerous prestigious meetings and convention awards, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is a nationally respected and recognized leader in the convention resort arena.
03/01/2020
Safety and security are on the top of planners’ minds more than ever in 2020. When planning large-scale meetings and conventions, destination and facility selection is a crucial step in the planning process to ensure your attendees have a safe, enjoyable experience.
02/28/2020
ITB Berlin 2020 announced it is cancelling its March 4-8 convention in the German capital due to the spread of coronavirus, or COVID-19. Is IMEX Frankfurt next? Read more.
02/27/2020
There are those who say technology is killing human interaction and negatively affecting wellness. However, in this webinar we will speak to how the threading and integration of personal interaction and technology produces the optimal wellness tapestry for your event with varied levels of engagement and attendee takeaway beyond compare.
Join Meetings Today and meetings wellness expert Lee Papa, innovator of the Mindfulness LoungeTM at top meetings industry association events such as MPI WEC and IMEX America, for this free one-hour webinar that will help you integrate the digital age into your meeting wellness offering.
02/27/2020
It can be hard to pick healthy snacks when you’re traveling, so use these six heart smart ideas to help keep your trip on track. Read more.
02/25/2020
With $5 billion in developments across Milwaukee, the city’s neighborhoods are dramatically transforming. One neighborhood seeing a resurgence is Westown, which has become the entertainment, sports and convention hub or the city before, during and after events.
02/25/2020
Creating an environment that fosters cross-hierarchical communication and socialization is a challenge that may seem easier said than done, but by implementing some key strategies and meetings formats, getting C-suites to walk hand-in-hand with the rank-and-file is an achievable goal. Read more.
02/21/2020
Meetings and events planning veteran and speaker Bonnie Wallsh shares her tips for working with a CVB/DMO.
02/20/2020
Why do we willingly sell ourselves short? In episode two of Dare to Interrupt, world-renowned professor of hospitality, events and tourism Dr. Lorie Tuma shares with us the power of her personal mantra, “Say Yes”.
02/19/2020
Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa opens March 1, 2020 on Anse Marcel Bay, and is the first Secrets resort in the French Caribbean. Read more.
02/18/2020
Use these tips from travel health expert John Ayo to relieve or prevent a stress-induced headache while traveling for business.
02/17/2020
From fancy cocktails on tap to the constant want for localized, sustainable experiences, top chefs at hotel properties in Miami and Fort Lauderdale dish on the big culinary trends they anticipate in Florida in 2020.
02/17/2020
With easy access to the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, James Beard-nominated chefs and a wide variety of meeting space sizes, Asheville is easily a hidden gem of a destination. Read on to learn more about this surprising city for meetings.
02/14/2020
San Diego is 250 years old and still looking good—and these new and renovated meeting venues prove it. From hotels downtown to unique offsites, here’s a roundup of the latest openings and updates in San Diego.
02/14/2020
LETHRBAR® LIVE is an immersive event activation that engages and delights guests through the memorable experience of hand-stamping a monogram or favorite word onto a leather keepsake, right in front of their eyes at an event. Learn more.
02/14/2020
Unity College’s newest acquisition, Sky Lodge, is a circa 1929 sporting lodge, and you can book it for your next corporate retreat. Adventurous attendees craving outdoor experiences will want to consider an executive retreat in Maine. Read more.
02/13/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found in the West.
02/13/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found in the South.
02/13/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found in the East.
02/13/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found in Mid-America.
02/13/2020
Stay up to date on the latest venue openings and property renovations, including these found around the world.
02/13/2020
Jim Murren is stepping down form his role as chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International and will continue to lead the company through the transisiton plan to name a successor. Read more.
02/13/2020
Las Vegas has become a showcase for spectacular technology and massive annual events such as CES, the largest consumer technology show in the world. Following are some of the top tech offerings of Las Vegas, all geared to dazzle attendees or make the lives of meeting planners easier. Read more.
02/13/2020
Coronavirus has hit China hard, and it's difficult to get an accurate assessment of its severity because of the secrecy in that nation, although many confirmed cases have been reported in the U.S. Check out our Corona Virus Risk Management piece by Brenda Rivers to see how you can prepare. Also, discover what you need to do if you get sick on the road; a podcast with the LVCVA's Chris Meyer on what's new in Las Vegas; the need for sabbaticals; and the new trend of Biophilic design in meetings.
02/12/2020
Vested with the responsibility of overseeing the F&B efforts of Live Aqua, Grand Fiesta Americana and Fiesta Americana, the premier brands of the more than 180-property Mexico hotel chain Posadas, Gerardo Rivera stakes his living on pinpointing and delivering the latest group cuisine trends. Here are the top group food and beverage trends he believes will impact 2020 and beyond. Read more.
02/12/2020
Posadas Corporate Chef Gerardo Rivera, who oversees F&B operations at Live Aqua, Grand Fiesta Americana and Fiesta Americana, provided two Mexican dessert recipes and a fruity punch concoction meeting and event planners can transport from his catering kitchens to their homes.
02/11/2020
What’s new in the center of the meetings and events universe? Topics for this Meetings Today podcast include Elon Musk’s bold new Boring Company people mover; exciting new technology offerings; highlights of the Las Vegas Convention Center expansion; and how the Las Vegas is attracting a global sporting event audience.
02/11/2020
From free parking to easy access, whether by plane or car, the suburbs just outside downtown Chicago are a convenient meeting destination. Planners will find recently renovated hotels equipped for meetings and events, as well as golfing, rooftop restaurants, a botanical garden and more.
02/10/2020
If you are starting from meetings and events risk management program from scratch, need to revamp an outdated crisis management plan or to develop an enterprise-wide meeting and event risk management strategy, take a page from travel risk management. Read more.
02/10/2020
It’s impossible to predict how the coronavirus will affect international and U.S. meetings and events, so have a risk management plan to prepare. Read how.
02/10/2020
Biophilia is working its way into some of the world’s most popular meeting spaces. Read how conducting business in spaces with natural design elements like living walls, clean air, natural light and more can boost attendee productivity.
02/07/2020
Just 90 miles south of mega Las Vegas, small groups will find visionary meeting experiences and excellent amenities in Laughlin, Nevada.
02/07/2020
Meetings Today blogger Joan Eisenstodt interviews hospitality industry professionals to share their stories about sabbaticals. From highly structured to relatively no structure, there is a wide variety of sabbatical formats. Learn more.
02/07/2020
Eastern Iowa has plenty of options when it comes to offsite venues, and some of its best provide a unique backdrop while highlighting the region’s past in ways that may surprise. If you’re looking for a venue away from the meeting property, hotel, convention or conference center, you can look to these four options for a little taste of the local culture, history and vibrancy.
02/06/2020
More organizations are catering to parents who face travel challenges due to the family responsibilities. Flexable offers on-demand, onsite childcare service. Read more.
02/04/2020
Ski destinations’ allure extends to incentive groups, small corporate retreats and annual association meetings, too, thanks to improved infrastructure for group travel. Their winter wonderland magic also draws higher attendance rates and drums up genuine excitement with attendees. Read more about Park City and Snowmass.
02/03/2020
This curated guide to Houston’s group-centric neighborhoods and districts is designed to make navigating Houston easier when meeting there for meetings and events. Each offers a rich mix of cross-category venues and new developments Read more.
02/03/2020
Bring your meetings and incentives to Greater Fort Lauderdale, where you'll find unique venues, an expanding world-class convention center, and abundant blue skies and sunshine.
02/03/2020
Sioux Falls, South Dakota, offers a wealth of offsite activity options for planners of meetings and events, with a variety of noteworthy facilities that have recently opened or are set to debut. The accessibility and favorable price point of Sioux Falls are also attractions worthy of note. Read more.
02/03/2020
Michael Cerbelli kicks of The Hot List 2020 with floats you can customize for your pool-side events. Read more about this product plus more about what’s #mcapproved going into 2020.
02/01/2020
02/01/2020
From outstanding facilities and building services to unparalleled accessibility and legendary attractions, we can’t think of a reason why you shouldn’t bring your event to Boston. But to break it down even further, here is a list of 10 wicked good reasons to choose Boston for you next event!
02/01/2020
The Myrtle Beach Convention Center (MBCC) should be one of the first places you consider for a trade show or convention in the sunny Southeast. Rita Harrell, sales manager for Myrtle Beach Convention Center, breaks down the top five reasons why.
02/01/2020
Book Your Next Meeting or Event and Receive Up To 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy™ Points now. Marriott Bonvoy™ Events is awarding meeting planners a signing bonus of up to 100,000 points when you book by March 31, 2020, for meetings held by December 31, 2023.
01/31/2020
The medical and pharmaceutical segment of the meetings industry poses some of the toughest challenges for planners, with different codes and regulations depending on where events are held and the country of origination of attendees. Discover some of the new challenges and improvements impacting medical meetings compliance.
01/31/2020
120 international business event planners and media convened in Western Australian city, Perth, for Dreamtime 2019—Australia’s signature bi-annual business events showcase, providing incentive planners opportunities to experience the country’s best destinations first-hand.
01/31/2020
Inspired by client demand and driven by innovation, these are the mega-projects and mega-deals creating the future Las Vegas. Plus, extended destinations for meetings, and why Vegas is right on the money for groups.
01/31/2020
Danielle LeBreck and Jill Vance, the director of sales for The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, take a deep dive on why this tranquil Southwest Florida destination is ideal for your next meeting. They cover its natural beauty and inspiration surroundings, unique waterfront venues, team activities, CSR programs and more.
01/31/2020
These one-of-a-kind teambuilding activities are ones your attendees will genuinely enjoy—while forming some meaningful connections in the process—during your next meeting or event on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel.
01/31/2020
For any group convening on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of the outdoors—after all, it’s what makes this destination so alluring. From resorts with waterfront space and historic offsite venues to dining spots with al fresco seating options, these are some of the best outdoor spaces for groups.
01/30/2020
Join Meetings Today and Robyn Mietkiewicz, CMP, CMM, strategic partner with INNOV8 Meetings + Events, for this free one-hour webinar that will provide all the information you need to keep costs contained while providing a quality meeting.
01/29/2020
The United States Green Building Council (USGBC) has unveiled its annual list of the top 10 states for LEED green building, which ranks states based on the number of LEED-certified square feet per person. Colorado topped the list for the first time in eight years. See which LEED projects helped catapult states into the list and move up their ranking.
01/29/2020
From live entertainment and the performing arts to championship sports and themed festivals, the Metroplex produces true Texas events on a grand scale—and groups are always invited to the show. Read more.
01/28/2020
The Greater Philadelphia area has recently welcomed several new facilities, developments and renovations that amp up its meetings, conventions and events offerings, with Philadelphia proper and neighboring Valley Forge figuring large in the equation. Discover these new options for meetings and events.
01/28/2020
Becoming ill while traveling doesn’t have to be a miserable experience. These tips can help you manage your health on the road and avoid common pitfalls for travelers seeking medical care. Read more.
01/24/2020
There’s a lot to consider when the majority of your attendees are traveling by car to your meeting. Use these 10 tips to plan a successful drive-to meeting or event. Read more.
01/23/2020
As the fifth state to join the United States, Connecticut has its share of history and culture, much of which can still be experienced. Here are five standouts across the state where groups can enjoy meetings and events alongside the history, art and culture that helped define the Constitution State.
01/23/2020
Meetings Today is proud to collaborate with Courtney Stanley for the monthly Dare to Interrupt podcast, which provides women with a platform to share their own stories of adversity and pass along wisdom they have gathered on the road to success. Learn more.
01/23/2020
Hosted by speaker and writer Courtney Stanley, Dare to Interrupt brings together industry professionals who shed light on important topics facing women today, from imposter syndrome to sexual harassment to negotiating pay and the list goes on.
01/22/2020
Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International are engaged in ongoing lawsuits about resort fees and “drip pricing.” Here’s what meeting and event planners need to know to negotiate around these charges as part of their RFP response process. Read more.
01/22/2020
Planners working on a meeting in the Coastal Carolinas are encouraged to host an outdoor group event. An aquarium, garden settings, an old battleship and waterfront restaurants are a few of the possibilities for memorable receptions and meal functions complete with inspiring views, Instagram-worthy photo ops and even fun add-on activities.
01/21/2020
San Francisco’s “newest” neighborhood, Mission Bay, is the bio-tech and medical research heart of the “City by the Bay,” but it is also the hottest new events destination in a first-tier city that’s always at the top of meeting planners’ wish lists.
01/20/2020
StageStory, led by documentary filmmaker Brett Culp, is a totally customized audience experience that blends live performance and filmmaking to deliver your inspiring stories like never before, creating a cinematic multimedia experience that will deliver your message in an impactful and memorable way. Read more.
01/17/2020
Philadelphia CVB President & CEO Julie Coker is departing the bureau to take the top spot at the San Diego Tourism Authority, tendering her resignation in March 2020. Coker served as president and CEO of the Philadelphia CVB (PHLCVB) since January 2016. Read more.
01/17/2020
The Harpeth Hotel in Tennessee and Hotel Distil in Kentucky are two new Southern hotels that offer a boutique, historic aesthetic with unique guest experiences that cater to whiskey lovers.
01/17/2020
New hotel openings in Kerala, India; Lima, Peru; and Koh Samui, Thailand, offer a wealth of amenities for MICE planners. Read more.
01/17/2020
A new Radisson in Times Square and two new Canopy properties in Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia are among new meetings hotels opening in the East. Read more.
01/17/2020
California’s Hotel Irvine reveals a contemporary transformation, the Beverly Hilton in announces a top-to-bottom renovation and the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa unveils a stylish new lobby.
01/17/2020
The newly opened Chicago Midway International Airport and Hotel Chauncey in Iowa arrive with amenities like easy access to airports and on-site activities like a bowling alley.
01/17/2020
Situated at the epicenter of Kansas City’s past and future, Loews Kansas City will officially open its doors in early April of this year.
01/15/2020
Stay on top of the latest technology developments—and their potential pros and cons—by monitoring these three rising event tech trends: the 5G network, augmented reality in mobile event apps and new artificial intelligence tools.
01/15/2020
The average B2B organization spends 40% of its marketing budget on live events, but most event marketers continue to struggle with proving the value of those events. Did you know that event technology, as part of the marketing tech stack, has the power to unlock the mystery behind event leads and give marketers the insights they need to prove event ROI? Join us while we discuss how live events are uniquely capable of delivering incredible returns when integrated as part of a multichannel marketing strategy.
01/15/2020
Meetings Today is proud to collaborate with Courtney Stanley, a women's empowerment leaders in the meetings and events industry. Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson asks her about the new podcast and Courtney shares some information about the first show, available January 23.
01/14/2020
The Pacific Northwest is a trendsetter on the national culinary stage. Current culinary trends are mainly occurring in local restaurants, including farm- and sea-to-table meals in Seattle eateries and a boom of inviting group-friendly hotel restaurants in Portland.
01/13/2020
ASAE President and CEO John H. Graham IV passed away after an extended battle with cancer. The association said that Susan Robertson will continue to serve as its interim president and CEO. Read more.
01/13/2020
One of the most exciting entrants to the downtown Nashville market is the Fifth + Broadway development—a mixed-use office, residential and retailer space—that’s set to transform the already buzzing corner of Broadway.
01/10/2020
01/09/2020
Unprecedented bushfires are devastating millions of acres in Australia. Read more for the latest updates, how the bushfires are impacting the hospitality industry and what meeting professionals can do to help the rescue and relief efforts.
01/08/2020
From cannabis at meetings to data security, additional facility fees, emerging tech, data-driven analytics and personalization, the pace of change in the meetings and events world is moving faster than ever.
Join Meetings Today and meetings industry attorney Joshua Grimes, meetings tech thought leader Corbin Ball and Will Curran, chief event Einstein for Endless Events and host of event industry podcast #EventIcons, for this free one-hour broadcast taped at PCMA Convening Leaders 2020 to gain knowledge on the latest trends that will impact your programs.
01/08/2020
The stars brought their A game to kick off 2020. Robert De Niro, Laura Dern, Joaquin Phoenix, Renee Zellweger, Quentin Tarantino and Jennifer Lopez are just a few of the Hollywood names that attended the Palm Springs International Film Society’s International Film Awards Gala on Thursday, January 2, 2020. I was there, too, getting my own star treatment before, during and after the big night by the Greater Palm Springs CVB. Read more.
01/08/2020
PCMA announced two strategic alliances during its Convening Leaders 2020 conference at San Francisco’s Moscone Center South that are aimed to bringing its meetings, events and incentives educational reach to a wider audience. Convening Leaders also enjoyed a 14% spike in attendance over the 2019 edition. Read more.
01/07/2020
Veteran meeting planner and educator Bonnie Wallsh shares 10 budget tips that are essential to keeping your meeting and event expenses from breaking the bank. Read more.
01/06/2020
Lyric boasts a roster of dynamic talents from around the globe. Their precise harmonies and innovative choreography will elate and enrapture any audience, while a diverse songbook of ingeniously crafted mashups will have every audience member singing along. Read more.
01/06/2020
Situated in Rio Grande, the new Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico opened, following a multimillion transformation of the property. The 579-room resort is on 72 acres on the island’s northeast coast near the famed El Yunque National Forest.
01/06/2020
In her 36 years supervising convention services for the Philadelphia CVB, Philomena Petro, who retired at the end of December 2019, has seen that position grow exponentially in importance to bureaus. Discover key trends impacting the meetings industry from the convention services perspective. Read more.
01/06/2020
Almost half of the meetings held in Las Vegas involve less than 500 attendees, according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). Read more.
01/03/2020
The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa helps man’s best friend find forever homes as part of its lobby dog adoption program, with nearly 150 dogs to date trotting out of the lobby with a new family. Read more.
01/01/2020
The Ritz-Carlton, Perth opened in the capital city of Western Australia. Part of the landmark development at Elizabeth Quay, The hotel overlooks the city's Swan River and Kings Park and connects guests to the destination’s rich way of life through a contemporary take on local culture, history and cuisine.
01/01/2020
Hotel RL St. Louis opened near St. Louis Lambert International Airport. The 107-room property offers modern amenities and contemporary designs with convenient access to the city’s iconic landmarks. Among Hotel RL St. Louis Airport’s many standout features are barista-style coffee from nationally recognized, Seattle roaster, Victrola Coffee Roasters complimentary to Hello Rewards Members; same-day valet laundry service; convenient mobile check-in; and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
01/01/2020
Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center. The hotel is located in the heart of Portland, just steps from the newly renovated Oregon Convention Center, local sport and concert arena Moda Center and high-end eateries and breweries in the burgeoning Lloyd neighborhood.
01/01/2020
Yes, Tucson has great ballrooms and conference spaces, but why not get out under the sun and soak up a healthy dose of vitamin D? With an average of 350 days of sunshine a year and mild temperatures in spring, summer, and fall, you can free yourself from traditional conference rooms and indoor meeting venues.
01/01/2020
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01/01/2020
From the gentle pace of the ferries that cross the Salish Sea to the glide of a seaplane that tours around dozens of emerald green islands before landing in a picturesque harbour, things move a little slower on Vancouver Island and we’re alright with that.
12/27/2019
Hyatt Regency Indianapolis completed the first phase of its multimillion-dollar renovation, which includes the opening of its completely renovated revolving rooftop restaurant, The Eagle’s Nest as well as completion of a redesign of the hotel’s more than 35,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces, ground floor restaurants, lobby and fitness center.
12/26/2019
When considering hosting your next meeting or event at a hotel property, it’s important to conduct a thorough site inspection. This checklist will ensure you don’t miss a thing! Read more.
12/23/2019
Executive Chef Christopher Covelli chats with Meetings Today contributor Jennifer Jeurgens about Sarasota cuisine, food trends he sees in the meetings and events industry, and some of the best dishes at his restaurant, Sage. Read more.
12/19/2019
Radisson unveiled Radisson Bogotá Metrotel in the Colombian city. The property is located in the financial district of the city and accommodates both business and leisure guests traveling to popular gastronomic areas, nearby shopping centers, or the El Dorado International Airport (BOG).
12/19/2019
InterContinental Xi'an North debuted in the historical and cultural hub of China. The hotel has 329 guest rooms and suites with design and style that combines elements of the cultural heritage of the ancient capital and its thirteen dynasties.
12/19/2019
Courtyard by Marriott Petoskey at Victories Square opened in Michigan. The 139-room hotel offers guests convenient access to downtown Petoskey, the Odawa Casino, Petoskey State Park, the Great Lakes Center for the Arts, The Crooked Tree Arts Center and the Petoskey Wine Trail.
12/19/2019
From the Gilded Age mansions in the seaside city of Newport to the artful past of the capital, Providence, America’s smallest state can create a big impact. Wow attendees with these beautiful venues that come with an illustrious past. Learn more.
12/19/2019
The Lytle Park Hotel is gearing up for its February 2020 debut in historic downtown Cincinnati. The 106-room Autograph Collection property is situated within a classic 1909 building and honors its roots in the Lytle Park Historic District.
12/18/2019
Chefs from meeting and event properties in the U.S. and Mexico share their favorite holiday dessert receipes.
12/18/2019
There are few states with such fervent love for their quirky, one-of-a-kind eats than Wisconsin. From squeaky cheese curds and bratwurst platters to brandy old fashioneds and beer, groups can’t resist these seven foods and drinks that make America’s Dairyland famous. Read more.
12/18/2019
Delta Hotels Baltimore North opened in Northern Baltimore in the historic neighborhood of Roland Park. The property is Delta's first branded hotel in Baltimore North. Delta Hotels by Marriott Baltimore North is managed by Greenwood Hospitality.
12/18/2019
The Westin Prince Hotel was rebranded to Pan Pacific Toronto. Pan Pacific Toronto will be the fifth hotel for Pan Pacific Hotels Group in North America, joining other hotels in Vancouver, Whistler in British Columbia and Seattle.
12/18/2019
In 2019 and moving into 2020, Mexico’s most popular meeting locales are continuing to strengthen their hotel and resort offerings—especially in the luxury and all-inclusive categories—only solidifying these destinations as reliable (and fun) for meetings and incentives. Read more.
12/18/2019
Oracle just announced it is pulling up stakes and moving its 60,000-strong OpenWorld conference from San Francisco to Las Vegas for the next three years, citing exorbitant hotel prices and perceived safety issues due to the city's homeless crisis. Also, check out our podcasts from Lead Destination Strategist Danielle LeBreck, who traveled to Australia for the Dreamtime incentives event and a fam to the idyllic Whitsunday Islands.
12/17/2019
Thompson Washington D.C. is gearing up for a January debut. The hotel will open in the capitol’s Navy Yard district and offer 225 guest rooms and over 7,000 square feet of meeting and event space, including an expansive rooftop with views of the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, Anacostia River and Nationals Park.
12/17/2019
Puerto Rico’s natural attractions are so singular and stunning, it’s hard to believe they are just a short plane ride away from the U.S. mainland. See these five attractions.
12/17/2019
As San Juan celebrates its 500th year, it’s opening a new entertainment district that is set to boost the meeting and convention business in Puerto Rico. Read more.
12/16/2019
Margaritaville Hotel Nashville opened in the Music City. The 12-story hotel features 166 guest rooms as well as 52 Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham suites. Amenities include a rooftop area with an outdoor pool and sundeck, two dining concepts and nearly 11,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor customizable meeting and event space.
12/13/2019
FOCUS3D combines the musical skills of a DJ and drummer with the latest 3D mapping technology at a fraction of the cost of 3D mapping. They will transform your event from just a DJ to a live sight and sound spectacular that everyone must stop and watch. Read more.
12/12/2019
Groups meeting in the Hoosier state can take in a game or host an event at an iconic sporting facility to get a feel for Indiana’s local sports culture. From the Indy 500 to Indiana University Athletics, read about four options for groups to experience Indiana sports alongside a meeting or event.
12/11/2019
Oracle cited attendee safety concerns in announcing it is cancelling its annual OpenWorld conference in San Francisco and moving it to Las Vegas starting in 2020 after holding the event in San Francisco for more than 20 years.
12/11/2019
Lead destination content strategist Danielle LeBreck tours the Whitsundays, a collection of islands near the Great Barrier Reef in northeastern Australia, during a fam trip with Business Events Australia.
12/11/2019
Across the state of Louisiana, traditional cuisine is celebrated, and new, inventive dishes are embraced—the food and drink scene in the state is more diverse than many might think. Read on to see what makes the cuisines in these Southern spots so deliciously distinct.
12/11/2019
MGM Resorts International announced today that Stephanie Glanzer, CMP, has been appointed its senior vice president and chief sales officer, overseeing the company’s convention sales and operations efforts. Read more.
12/11/2019
From augmented reality and virtual reality to mixed reality and beyond, discover what new technologies are actually relevant to your meetings, how they may impact your budget and how you can best use them to improve both your attendees' experience and the ROI of your event.
Meeting planners need to be on top of the latest tech trends, but if they get too far out in front of the curve they could just be throwing their money away on pricey additions that drain their resources while providing minimal benefit.
Join Meetings Today and top meetings industry tech guru Corbin Ball, of Corbin Ball & Co., for this free one-hour webinar that will get you up-to-speed on the latest, greatest and most-effective and cost-efficient technology for your meetings and events.
12/09/2019
The National WWII Museum opened its landmark hotel property The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton. The property is located in the Arts and Warehouse District in New Orleans and features 230 guest rooms, four dining outlets—including the city’s newest rooftop bar—and 18,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
12/09/2019
In Nevada, you can meet in the same room as Elvis Presley’s 1973 Cadillac Eldorado or in a 1930s mansion on the shores of Lake Tahoe. These are just two of seven of our favorite unique offsite venues in the state. Read on for all of them.
12/06/2019
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa completed the renovation of its Indian Wells Conference Center. The project is part of the ongoing $21 million property-wide transformation. The conference center features 27,000 square feet of indoor function space and two outdoor terraces and is situated on 45 acres of landscape in the heart of the Coachella Valley.
12/06/2019
Accor announced the opening of Sofitel Mexico City Reforma on Paseo de la Reforma in the capital city. The hotel features 275 guest rooms, two dining experiences and three bars, a Sofitel Spa with L'Occitane, fitness center and indoor pool as well as more than 7,000 square feet of meetings and events space.
12/06/2019
Meetings industry veterans provide ways to keep knowledge and history in organizations and in the industry. They discuss how to retain talent as well as to identify new talent to mentor and nurture.
12/06/2019
When people retire—or reach a certain age and still working—the industry forgets to ask for input about who we were and what that means now.
12/06/2019
The tourism promotion effort of Buffalo, New York, carries the tagline “Unexpected Buffalo,” and during a recent trip to the western Empire State city, Meetings Today got a taste of how the destination may surprise attendees with its eye-opening offerings. Read more.
12/05/2019
Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson describes the impact Patti Shock has had on the meetings industry, through the eyes of the people she's impacted, including Joan Eisentsodt, Tyra Warner, MaryAnne Bobrow, Dan Cormany and Dan Parks. Also, our Top 10 stories of 2019 and a podcast from Australia's Dreamtime 2019.
12/04/2019
The foundation for staying focused begins with what goes into your body, especially when you’re in an unfamiliar environment. Meeting planners are reevaluating menu options and schedules to avoid that autopilot mindset. Read more.
12/04/2019
Groups traveling to North Carolina’s Triad Region of Winston-Salem, Greensboro and High Point can avail themselves of many teambuilding options, from action-packed activities at a palatial former private estate to escape rooms, ropes courses and paintball tournaments. Read more.
12/04/2019
From meeting with astronauts and among rockets to networking at the Daytona International Speedway, there are a wealth of unique venues along Florida’s Space Coast and in Daytona Beach. Read more.
12/03/2019
Lead Destinations Content Strategist Danielle LeBreck sits down with Tourism Australia's Penny Lion during Dreamtime 2019 in Perth, Australia, to chat about how Australian destinations can help you plan one-of-a-kind incentive trips.
12/03/2019
Museums, public murals and arts festivals are just some of the many ways groups can experience the thriving arts scene in Kansas City. Read for six inspiring art experiences for groups convening in the city.
12/03/2019
From inspiring women leaders to contract checklists and new tech so wacky it’s genius, here are the Meetings Today articles you could not stop reading in 2019.
12/02/2019
Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort reopened after undergoing a $40 million renovation. Managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, the 336-room hotel is positioned on six acres of oceanfront real estate overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
12/02/2019
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation to its guest rooms. The revamped accommodations will feature authentic Hawaiian touches with a modern twist that will allow guests to connect with Maui’s vibrant culture. The property is on 40 acres along Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina and the redesign is inspired by the heritage and authentic spirit of this location.
12/02/2019
Groups can partner with the Clearwater Marine Aquarium for CSR activities, event space, tours and more when meeting in Clearwater Beach, Florida. Read more.
12/02/2019
Behind meetings momentum and increasing product diversification in 2019, Atlantic City is more equipped than ever to host meeting and event groups. Read more about the destination’s strides and future offerings.
12/02/2019
Pioneering a signature sound that can only be described as “Cinematic Pop,” the music of GENTRI is transfused with lush, epic orchestrations and rich, dynamic three-part harmonies all composed by the group’s producer, Stephen Nelson. Find out how you can book them for your meetings and events.
12/01/2019
Selecting a destination for an event is an important decision to make. The team at Business Events Montréal (part of Tourisme Montréal) has been thinking about ways to mitigate uncertainty—and they’ve come up with a solution. They’ve recently unveiled basic guarantees to ensure that Montréal continues to be a top choice for events. It’s a simple, compelling idea that breaks new ground in the industry.
12/01/2019
Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach is the newest meetings hotel in the St. Pete/Clearwater area, and houses 22,000 square feet of meeting space, including the region's largest event venue. Watch this video to see for yourself!
12/01/2019
12/01/2019
Take a moment to think about a package—any type of package, from a newly delivered box on your doorstep to a digital bundle of services. What are some of the best features of this package for you? Is one of them the element of excitement or mystery from not knowing what’s inside? Because the package exists, is something made simpler or easier in your life?
12/01/2019