All posts by Christine Loomis

With virtual/hybrid meetings and events frequently the only option now, it’s crucial for planners to know how to facilitate team building with participants scattered across the country or even the globe.

The pandemic impacted much in the meetings industry, but does that include negotiating hotel and venue contracts? Some industry experts say no, but those who believe negotiations have shifted point to three areas: Attrition, cancellation and force majeure clauses, along with COVID 19-related guidelines and protocols. Tyra Warner, Ph.D., J.D., CMP, chair, Department of Hospitality, […]

Beaches can be a stunning backdrop for unforgettable functions and provide a bucket-list locale for incentive programs. Fortunately for planners, whether the meeting is primarily fly-in or drive-in, there’s likely a beach that meets the need.

Creating sustainable meetings has been top of mind for planners and venues for several years. Then came a pandemic, driving health and safety to the forefront, which begs the question: Is sustainability still a priority?

Visit Orlando has a new CEO and president, Casandra Matej, longtime head of the San Antonio CVB, who formally took over in Orlando early this year.

As the COVID-19 pandemic’s stranglehold on the meetings and incentives industry wanes, these destinations offer attractive alternatives for planners seeking to host smaller, face-to-face or hybrid meetings.

There’s no question that gaming destinations and resorts can be a huge draw for meetings. They offer rooms, ample meeting space, and multiple dining and entertainment options all under one roof. For many groups, they’re a proven registration booster.

It’s not surprising that convention centers are often in update mode, from increasing technological capabilities and sustainability to adding meeting space, among other things.

The long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical and pharma meetings remains to be seen.

While in-person events are not yet booming, there is forward progress.