Meetings 2016

MeetingseeIDEAS TO MAKE YOUR UP NORTH MEETING GREAT • 2016

MyNorth.com/MeetingsNorth

Smart Ideas,

LATEST UPGRADES AT 13 MEETING RESORTS

6 AFFORDABLE SWAG BAG GOODIES!

12 DÉCOR TIPS FROM A PRO

Better Meetings

77OFF-THE-RADAR VENUESFOR MEETINGS!

EXTRAORDINARY SPEAKERS FOR KEYNOTES19

2016 MYNORTH MEETING COVER.indd 1 3/2/16 2:50 PM

The Perfect Northern Michigan Choice For Groups And Events 800-833-5538 | www.missionpoint.com | [email protected]

Dear Meetings and Events Planner,As you plan the location and venue of your upcoming events, I would like to invite you to consider Mission Point Resort. As I enter my fi fth season on the island, I am tremendously excited with the momentum we have built at the resort, and would be delighted if you were a part of it.Building on our outstanding east waterfront location and relaxed, welcoming ambiance, we are a great choice for groups of all sizes. Mission Point offersa wide range of guest rooms and suites, and a large variety of fl exible meeting and event space including a 35,000 square foot Conference Center. With an intense and growing focus on locally sourced foods, Mission Point offers excellent and creative choices for catered dinners in our event spaces, or at our three restaurants: Chianti (Italian), Round Island Bar and Grill (American pub fare) and Bistro onthe Greens (eclectic American bistro, al fresco). For free time, Mission Point Resort has a large variety of onsite activities and amenities, including bike rental, tennis, swimming pool, spa, movies, kid’s arcade, and lawn games.Please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated Group Sales team at 800-833-5538 to further assist you. I hope to see you on the morning side of the island!With kind regards,Bradley McCallum General Manager 906-847-3002


Editor’s Note

A powerful place gives rise to powerful ideas.By Jeff Smith

Inspired to Dream and Do

As I was putting together the list of Northern Michigan people who make themselves available for keynote speaking engagements (page 5), I couldn’t help but be struck by the talent that has landed in this small, rural area that lies several hours’ drive from the nearest major megalopolis.

One by one I added their names and bio-lines to the list. Linda Lindquist-Bishop, who grew up sailing on Lake Leelanau and went on to compete on the first all-women team to defend the America’s Cup. Jack Segal, who was a top advisor to NATO military commanders regarding Afghanistan. Doug Stanton, a New York Times best-selling author and founder of the National Writers Series. Hans Van Sumeren, who has helped build one of the nation’s foremost freshwater study institutes at Northwestern Michigan College. Carl Ganter, who co-founded an innovative water advocacy group that has caught the ear of leaders at the Davos Economic Forum and the United Nations. Nearly all of the people I just mentioned also grew up here.

I am a believer in the power of place, and Northern Michigan is a powerful place: The Great Lake shore, the rolling hills of forest,

orchard and vineyard, the hundreds of inland lakes, the clear rivers that trace wandering lines across our landscape.

Our landscape inspires people to follow their dreams, to do great things, so it is only natural that Northern Michigan is a potent place to gather and share ideas, convene meetings and hold conferences. Yes, this place inspires creativity, it inspires energy, it inspires activity, it inspires connections—each is a pillar for a successful meeting.

Peruse the 2016 edition of Meetings North to find upgrades at a dozen conference venues, room decor advice from a top designer, off-the-radar venue recommendations from event planner Allison Beers, and, of course, that list of 19 speakers who are ready to inspire your group to great things.

Jeff Smith is editor of Meetings North. [email protected]

SHELBY SOBERALSKI

2016 MYNORTH MEETINGS.indd 1 3/2/16 3:07 PM

Glen Arbor, MI 49636 | thehomesteadresort.com | 231 334 5000

You’ve heard the adage about the li�le �sh and the big pond. You probably haven’t thought about it when planning a small meeting. We have.

Small meetings are swallowed up when a big meeting lurks nearby. Service su�ers. So does productivity.

We o�er meeting facilites designed exclusively for small groups. �ey are luxuriously furnished and fully equipped. �e service sparkles and the food is memorable. �e beach, spa and golf are unmatched.

Of �sh, ponds & meetings.

Come cast about. You’ll be hooked!


Table of Contents2016 • Volume 12, Number 1

1 Editor’s Note Inspired to Dream and Do.

5 Enliven your KeynoteTap into Northern Michigan’s talent pool to find world-class presenters who live near your meeting.

8 Big Changes at Big VenuesNorthern resorts keep setting the bar higher when it comes to sumptuous, state-of-the-art meeting spaces.

11 Make Your Décor Work for YouTips for setting the stage for your event.

15 Locally Made for the Goodie BagFun Up North gifts for your guests.

17 Off-the-Radar Spaces with Allison BeersUnexpected and off-the-radar spaces for hosting memorable meetings.

20 Maps and Advertiser Index

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A MyNorth Media Publication

PRESIDENT/ EDITOR IN CHIEF Deborah Wyatt Fellows [email protected]

VICE PRESIDENT EDITORIAL/EDITOR Jeff Smith [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR Elizabeth Edwards [email protected]

SENIOR WEB EDITOR Courtney Jerome [email protected]

WEB WRITER Carley Simpson [email protected]

PROOFREADERS Elizabeth Aseritis Caroline Dahlquist

ART DIRECTOR Nicole Steffen [email protected]

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Theresa Burau-Baehr [email protected]

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Gail Snable [email protected]

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Rachel Dorie [email protected]

WEB DIRECTOR, CLIENT SALES Roger Lamb [email protected]

DIRECTOR, SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT Derek Graham [email protected]

MEDIA PROJECT COORDINATOR Dana Allen [email protected]

VIDEOGRAPHER Kris Riley [email protected]

SALES DIRECTOR Marc McKellar [email protected]

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Jim Driver [email protected]

Ann Gatrell [email protected] Lisa Gillespie Faulkner [email protected]

Jeff Hale [email protected]

Jill Hayes [email protected]

Cyndi Ludka [email protected]

Candace Morse [email protected]

Drew Warner [email protected]

Ben Fellows [email protected]

MARKETING DIRECTOR Rachel North [email protected]

CIRCULATION FULFILLMENT MANAGER Jodi G. Simpson [email protected]

TICKETING MANAGER Rob DiClemente [email protected]

TICKETING COORDINATOR Marilyn Jones [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER Libby Stallman [email protected]

CONTROLLER Kirstin Gorney [email protected]

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Editorial & Advertising Offices125 Park St., Suite 155, Traverse City, MI 49684

Phone: 231.941.8174 Fax: 231.941.8391E-mail: [email protected]

© 2016 Prism Publications.

FROM THE PUBLISHER OF

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Glen Arbor, MI 49636 | thehomesteadresort.com | 231 334 5000

You’ve heard the adage about the li�le �sh and the big pond. You probably haven’t thought about it when planning a small meeting. We have.

Small meetings are swallowed up when a big meeting lurks nearby. Service su�ers. So does productivity.

We o�er meeting facilites designed exclusively for small groups. �ey are luxuriously furnished and fully equipped. �e service sparkles and the food is memorable. �e beach, spa and golf are unmatched.

Of �sh, ponds & meetings.

Come cast about. You’ll be hooked!


CONNECTIONA C O N F E R E N C E C A L L C A N ’ T P R O V I D E

MAKE IT YOUR MOMENT.

Nature surrounds you in this stress-free setting. Miles removed from the

pressures of the o� ce, this is your place of productivity. A scenic sanctuary of

team bonding, big ideas, and breakthroughs. Better business happens here.

The Crystal Center is northern Michigan’s only IACC four-season conference facility. With our recently updated

Wi-Fi, inspiring furniture and fl exible seating for up to 350 people, it’s easy to stay connected and let your

productivity fl ourish. Our event planners will coordinate everything, from on-site catering to setting up the

presentation. Afterwards, make yourself at home on the Mountain – we’ve got over 240 lodging rooms,

delicious dining and endless activities on-site. Make it a meeting to remember at Crystal Mountain.

CRYSTALMOUNTAIN.COM | 855.746.6733



Local Speakers

EnlivenyourKeynoteTap into Northern Michigan’s talent pool to find world-class presenters who live near your meeting.BY JEFF SMITH

Linda Lindquist-Bishop, Leadership Consultant Prize winning off-shore yacht racing professional and former publisher of Yachting Magazine, Linda shares sailing, aviation and other adventure stories as the backdrop for teaching change, leadership and developing high-performing individuals and teams. [email protected]

Jack Segal, Former NATO advisorJack Segal made 40 trips to Afghanistan from 2002 to 2010 as Chief Political Advisor to NATO’s operational commander. He also contributed to the strategic assessments of the Afghanistan operation for NATO and the president. [email protected].

Angie Morgan, Founder, Lead Star A 20-year leadership expert, Angie Morgan founded Lead Star to help professionals achieve greater success by implementing leadership practices into their work routines. Themes include leadership, change and resilience. [email protected].

Jim MacInnes, CEO, Crystal Mountain Resort As CEO of Crystal Mountain, Jim MacInnes brings keen insight into the regional tourism industry, but he’s also a nuclear power engineer who is one of Michigan’s leading voices in renewable and alternative energy. [email protected].

Jerry Dennis, AuthorOne of Michigan’s most beloved and respected authors, Jerry Dennis is an eloquent proponent and defender of the Great Lakes, river health and the northern life. [email protected].

Ray Minervini, President, Minervini Group Led by a clear vision of the possibilities, Ray Minervini convinced the Traverse City community to support his ideas for renovating a massive 1800’s mental hospital into a gorgeous community with housing, shops, offices and parkland. [email protected].

Groundwork Center for Sustainable CommunitiesGroundwork Center is one of Michigan’s leading voices on inno-vative solutions for 21st century communities. Topic specialists in smart growth, water quality, transportation, local foods and farm-to-school food programs. [email protected].

Evan Smith, CEO, Cherry Capital FoodsA thought leader in the local foods movement and CEO of one of the nation’s most innovative food distribution companies, Cherry Capital Foods, which helps small farmers do business with large clients. [email protected].

Doug Stanton, Best-selling Author New York Times best-selling author of Horse Soldiers and In Harm’s Way, Doug Stanton is also the co-founder of the National Writers Series, one of the most acclaimed author speaking series in the nation. [email protected].

Benjamin Marentette As Traverse City clerk, Benjamin Marentette runs the opera-tions for one of America’s most vibrant and successful small towns. Hear the backstory on how the town’s magic happens. [email protected].

Nathan Havey, Corporate Culture AdvisorNathan Havey’s mission is to create a “new business as usual” in which leaders work for a purpose beyond profit, reject zero-sum thinking and truly care for the people they lead—and achieve even greater success along the way. [email protected].

Hagerty Insurance Executives Hagerty Insurance has evolved from a small niche insur-ance business that focused on classic cars and boats and to the industry’s top performer and innovator in that market space. Various topic experts. Contact Shelli DiFranco. [email protected].

Paul Britten, CEO, Britten Banners Renowned as a dynamic, change-driven corporate leader, Paul Britten has expanded his small screen-printing company into a national, multi-faceted brand. He enjoys speak-ing about branding, company culture and entrepreneurship. [email protected].

Todd Sanders, Leadership ExpertSanders has taken his experience as a military strategist and used it to help upper- and mid-level managers develop skills and strategies for success. He enjoys talking about leadership, creativity, innovation and veterans. [email protected].

Tony Anderson, General Manager, Cherryland Electric CooperativeTony Anderson has worked extensively with under-served youth in physical fitness and character building. His work is informed by his own experience growing up without a father and having run 34 marathons (and counting!). marathon4kids@gmail.

Wendy Steele CEO of Generosity Matters/Courageous Thinking Wendy Steele, leveraged her experience as an inventor and entrepreneur and applied it to a heartfelt belief that generosity can shape a better life for others and ourselves. Hear her inspir-ing message. [email protected].

Allison Beers, Owner, Events NorthWidely regarded as one of Michigan’s top event planners, Allison Beers shares her expertise as a keynote speaker, addressing business etiquette and successful conference planning. [email protected].

Carl Ganter, Co-Founder, Circle of BlueCarl Ganter co-founded Circle of Blue, one of the world’s most innovative and influential clean water advocacy organizations. He has addressed the United Nations and the Davos Economic Forum. [email protected]

Hans Van Sumeren, Director, Freshwater InstituteDirector of one of the nation’s leading college programs devoted to freshwater studies, Hans can speak to a wide range of water issues, including water-oriented careers, ecology, the future of underwater ROVs, and the Great Lakes. [email protected].

Jeff Smith is editor of Meetings North. [email protected]

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CONNECTIONA C O N F E R E N C E C A L L C A N ’ T P R O V I D E

MAKE IT YOUR MOMENT.

Nature surrounds you in this stress-free setting. Miles removed from the

pressures of the o� ce, this is your place of productivity. A scenic sanctuary of

team bonding, big ideas, and breakthroughs. Better business happens here.

The Crystal Center is northern Michigan’s only IACC four-season conference facility. With our recently updated

Wi-Fi, inspiring furniture and fl exible seating for up to 350 people, it’s easy to stay connected and let your

productivity fl ourish. Our event planners will coordinate everything, from on-site catering to setting up the

presentation. Afterwards, make yourself at home on the Mountain – we’ve got over 240 lodging rooms,

delicious dining and endless activities on-site. Make it a meeting to remember at Crystal Mountain.

CRYSTALMOUNTAIN.COM | 855.746.6733

2016 MYNORTH MEETINGS.indd 5 3/7/16 11:49 AM

Owned and Operated by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

GET UP AND GOExpansive views and limitless venues. The inspiration of a Northern Michigan

meeting is more than a vineyard board room, private beach reception, or

group sail at sunset. More than renowned service or distinct personalization.

It’s having all those things at your fi ngertips. You won’t believe it if you

haven’t seen it. Get up and go at GrandTraverseResort.com/Meetings.

#gtresort

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Resourt Updates

Northern resorts keep setting the bar higher when it comes to sumptuous, state-of-the-art meeting spaces. Here’s what’s new at a dozen destinations around the region: BY EMILY BINGHAM

The Homestead: This four-season resort, spa and ski hill is located right in the heart of scenic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with Lake Michigan, the Crystal River, and the vil-lages of Glen Arbor and Leland just steps away for great team-building and relaxation opportunities. The focus here is on smaller groups—as few as a handful of people or up to 180. Major upgrades to the furniture, fix-tures and technology in spring 2016 ensure a world-class experience. 1 Wood Ridge Rd., Glen Arbor, 231.334.5000, thehomesteadresort.com.

Crystal Mountain: Set in beautiful Benzie County, this four-season resort has been praised as one of the finest conference spots in the Midwest. This year Crystal Mountain will see a 31,000-square-foot expansion to its Inn at the Mountain, including a lobby bar, indoor market, 25 new guest rooms and a rooftop terrace for intimate gatherings. The Crystal Center, with room for up to 350 attendees, continues to be an exemplary meeting spot for larger groups and corporate events. Unwind on the golf courses, ski hills, hiking trails, or in the 18,500-square-foot,

LEED-certified Crystal Spa. 12500 Crystal Mounta in Dr. , T hompsonvi l le , 855 .9 95 . 5 14 6 , crystalmountain.com.

Grand Traverse Resort: At 17 stories tall, the Grand Traverse Resort’s striking glass tower is the tallest building in Northern Michigan, and a beacon of luxury and exemplary service. A recent $7 million total renovation of the tower’s guest rooms further position the resort as a national destination for high-profile clients. Grand Traverse boasts more than 86,500 square feet of meeting space, accommodat-ing small groups on up to conferences with more than 2,000 attendees. Three cham-pionship courses, a 7,000-square-foot spa, and customized team-building events round out the experience. 100 Grand Traverse Resort Blvd., Acme, 800.236.1577, grandtraverseresort.com.

Evergreen Resort: This Cadillac resort is sporting a fresh face in 2016, with significant updates and upgrades to nearly every room at the resort—from the lobby, which boasts new furniture, tile, computers and more, to the down-to-the-studs renovation of more than half the guest

rooms. Space for up to 200 convention or corporate retreat guests, plus plenty of ways to unwind—the resort sits on 350 acres of woodland, right next to more than a half-million acres of Manistee National Forest. 7880 Mackinaw Trail, Cadillac, 800.634.7302, evergreenresortmi.com.

Shanty Creek: Planning a tech-heavy event? Upgrades to the already-impressive WiFi at this four-season resort’s Lakeview Hotel and Conference Center means seamless con-nectivity without hiccups. Other recent improvements include an expanded menu of team-building activities, more shopping and dining on the property, and an updated online reservation system that allows attendees to access information for their event. More than 36,000 square feet of flex-ible event space, a seasoned event staff, and recreation opportunities on the slopes, links and nearby Torch Lake. 5780 Shanty Creek Rd., Bellaire, 800.678.4111, shantycreek.com.

Grand Hotel: This iconic Victorian-era resort perched on a bluff overlooking the Straits of Mackinac

Big Changes at Big Venues

GRAND HOTELMISSION POINT



Resourt Updates

sets an elegant backdrop for memorable meetings. The two-story, 16,000-square-foot Woodfill Conference Center has space for up to 800 attendees, with smaller rooms nearby for breakout sessions or smaller groups. New for 2016: Sushi Grand, a made-to-order sushi restaurant next to the hotel’s Gate House; an upgraded business center with state-of-the-art facilities; 400 new meeting-room chairs for more comfortable conferences, and more. After-work activities include horse-drawn car-riage rides, bicycle trips, and and golf at the Grand’s 18-hole Jewel course, with nine holes near the water and nine in the woods. 286 Grand Ave., Mackinac Island, 800.334.7263, grandhotel.com.

Mission Point: This landmark on the southeast shore of Mackinac Island is in the middle of a three-year master plan for ongoing improvements ranging from updated guest rooms to new gardens and a full-service on-site spa. These are, of course, icing on the cake at this historic resort, which boasts frontage right on the Straits and more than 38,000 square feet of extensive, flexible conference space. Your group might enjoy a private grounds tour of the resort’s new gardens, includ-ing the Apothecary Garden and Cocktail Garden, new as of last season. 6633 Main St., Mackinac Island, 800.833.7711, missionpoint.com

Park Place Hotel: A beacon of hospitality since 1930, this his-toric T.C. landmark is seeing big changes this year as it upgrades the space in its 10-story tower to include premium guest rooms, suites and a hospitality room. The Park Place can’t be beat when it comes to location, putting your guests within walking distance of shopping, dining, brew pubs, the beach, entertainment, and tons more. Nine meeting rooms totaling more than 13,000

square feet of functional space, room for up to 500 attendees, a broad range of catering options, and million-dollar views of the bay from the 10th story Beacon Lounge. 300 E. State St., Traverse City, 231.946.5000, park-place-hotel.com.

Odawa Casino & Resort: Conferences at this Petoskey casino and resort can be both professional and laid-back—striking a balance that allows for maximum creativity and productivity. Six banquet rooms ensure comfortable accom-modations for groups of all sizes, from the Superior Room, suitable for up to 14 people, all the way to Ovation Hall, with space for 1,000 (or 600 seated banquet style). When it’s time to let loose, hit up the slots or table games, or arrange a private motor coach tour of the region, which serves up beauty in spades. 1760 Lears Rd., Petoskey, 800.585.3737, odawacasino.com.

Little River Casino Resort: Whether your group totals just 10 guests or as many as 1,400, there’s space for your event and plenty of ways to unwind at this resort just a short distance from Lake Michigan. After burning through each day’s agenda, your guests can hit up the full-service casino with five slot rooms and table games like roulette, blackjack, and Texas Hold ’Em, catch live music in the 1,600-seat Event Center, head out for a hike at nearby C.S. Mott Nature Preserve, or head into downtown Manistee for shopping, dining or unwinding on the beach. 2700 Orchard Hwy., Manistee, 888.568.2244, lrcr.com.

Boyne Mountain: This four-season Boyne Falls resort has it all: exemplary skiing and outstanding golf, horseback trail rides, sleigh rides, disc golf, a zipline adventure course, paintball,

kayaking and canoeing, the state’s largest indoor waterpark, and the award-winning Solace Spa. When playtime’s over and you’re ready to gather your crew, there’s more than 37,000 square feet of event space, plus freshly upgraded AV equipment as of June 2016. 1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, 855.688.7024, boyne.com.

Boyne Highlands: The rolling hills surrounding Harbor Springs sets a stunning scene any time of year, and much of the meeting space at this resort offers spectacular views of that beauty. Spend a half day gettin’ some hard work done, then head outdoors to golf, ski, or make some memories on a group outing: there’s a zipline course, scenic chairlift rides, a complementary nine-hole golf course, and more. Event space for up to 600 attendees; short drive to picturesque Harbor Springs. 600 Boyne Highlands Dr., Harbor Springs, 855.688.7022, boynehighlands.com.

Inn at Bay Harbor: Sophisticated doesn’t have to mean stuffy, and this premier golf resort, recognized by Travel + Leisure as one of the world’s 500 best hotels, is both an elegant and inviting destination for your team. Designed in the spirit of romantic turn-of-the-century lake-side hotels, the inn offers 6,600 square feet of meeting space, a newly remodeled lobby with cozy alcoves for intimate chats, plus 45 holes of award-winning golf, a full-service spa, and more, all set against breathtaking Lake Michigan views. 3600 Village Harbor Drive, Bay Harbor, 855.688.7023, innatbayharbor.com.

Emily Bingham is a writer living in Ann Arbor.

Big Changes at Big Venues

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BOYNE HIGHLANDSPHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE INN AT BAY HARBOR


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Decor Tips

Make Your Décor Work for YouYou’ve got your location picked, your dates set, your agenda planned—but what about décor? Small details can make a big impact, says Kate Walski, owner of Traverse City–based event design company Sweet Themes (sweetthemesmi.com). Here, she breaks down her best tips for setting the stage for your event:TEXT BY EMILY BINGHAM || PHOTOS COURTESY OF KATE WALSKI

First, Walski says, start with these three steps:1. Set a budget. Whether you’re hiring out the décor or going the DIY route, having a budget in mind is the first place to start. It’s the single best way to determine where to get the most bang for your buck, Walski says—especially if you’re trying to keep décor expenses down.

2. Target your audience. Who’s attending your event and what message are you trying to send them? According to Walski, these two key components can help you figure out everything from color palettes to themes—which will do far more than just liven up the meeting space. “Décor is not just pretty,” she says. “These are tools that can be used as a sales tactic or to market your brand.”

3. Consider what’s already been done. Don’t try to reinvent the wheel or simply re-create what you did last year, Walski says. “Consider what your guests have seen before,” she says, then try a different approach to keep things fresh, unique and memorable.

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WEDDINGS • GRADUATIONS • CORPORATE & FAMILY EVENTS

From cocktails to dessert, from tableware to tents, let us take care of every detail so that your gathering

is fun and stress-free for you and your guests.

Please contact Patty Binette: 989.705.2010www.otsegograndeventcenter.com

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Decor Tips

Then, determine whether you’re looking to save or splurge.

Where to save:Linens: “You can do some really great linens for not a lot of money,” Walski says. Linens pull things together, and floor-length linens in particular can add a luxe feel without a lot of expense. “People all of a sudden will think, ‘OK, this isn’t the same old corporate function,” she says.

Centerpieces: “Centerpieces don’t have to be really elaborate,” Walski says—nor do they need to be floral, which can sometimes feel too femme for certain events.

Lighting: “You can change the mood of the room with just a little bit of lighting,” Walski says. Nix the sterile fluorescent lights in favor of something warmer or smartly placed uplighting.

Focal point: A statement piece, whether it be a cool bar, piece of art, or even a red-carpet entrance, will wow your guests and give them something to talk about. “It doesn’t change the whole room, but it makes a statement right away and sets the tone,” Walski says.

Where to splurge: Lounge furniture: Think beyond the typical tables and chairs—go the extra step by adding lounge furniture, which gives attendees spots to relax and have more casual conversations. “Guests love lounge furniture,” Walski says. “It gives the room a more intimate atmosphere.”

Specialty furniture: Walski tells us that long, communal cocktail tables are hip and hot right now, as are “ghost chairs”—clear plastic chairs as an alternative to traditional cross-back event chairs. The bottom line: The furniture itself can make a statement, so if your budget allows, look for eye-catching pieces that will make your event stand out.

Themes: Doing a sophisticated twist on a theme can be a fun alternative to standard corporate function décor. But Walski warns against getting too “novelty” on your guests. She gives the example of a James Bond–themed event: “It wasn’t James Bond posters or in-your-face props everywhere; it was the kind of party James Bond would be at,” she says. If you know your audience and keep it tasteful, a themed event can leave a lasting impression.

Lighting: Just as lighting can be a way to save, it can also be a way to splurge. Walski likes “go-go lights,” which shine a particular pattern, image or logo onto a wall or other surface.

Tabletop details: Even something as tiny as a napkin ring gives you a chance to up the elegance of your event. Make your event extra special by considering everything from the chargers to the flatware (Walski says gold flatware is a particularly sophisticated alternative to traditional silverware), and your guests will no doubt notice.



AUDIO VIDEO PROJECTION LIGHTING RIGGING STAGING

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Doing Business in Northern Michigan = TVCTotal Value Convenience

The airlines provide group discounts for 10 or more attendees - please visit their websites for more details

TraverseCity.com | (800) 940-1120

RedefinedMeetings

resorts & spas | unique meeting venues | historic hotels | meeting planner assistance

four-season adventure sports | championship golf | boutique shopping

art galleries | 40+ wineries & tasting rooms | craft breweries



Goodie Bags

Locally Made for the Goodie Bag By Jeff Smith

DAVID WEIDNER

1. Benjamin Twiggs Dark Chocolate-Covered Dried Cherries Will be devoured quickly, but memorably, 8 ounces, $8.50.

800.438.9444, benjamintwiggs.com.

2. M.22 MagnetA ribbon of asphalt to love. Remind your peeps of their time Up North, $6.

231.360.9090, m22.com.

3. Traverse Bay Farms Cherry SalsaPerfect balance of hot, sweet, spicy. $6.95, 16-ounce jar.

877.746.7477, traversebayfarms.com.

4. MyNorth Beanie Love that little compass point! Acrylic with soft liner layer, $23.95. 800.678.3416, mynorth.com.

5. Michigan Nightlife Koozie

Keep it warm. Keep it cold. Keep it Michigan. Collapsible neoprene, for 12-ounce can, $4.

513.444.4581, michigan-nightlife.com.

6. Great Lakes Proud StickerNo place has those lakes like we do. Help your attendees feel it! $5. 231.412.0682, greatlakesproud.com.

Jeff Smith is editor of Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine and MyNorth Meetings. [email protected]

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1500 Red Drive • Traverse City, MI 49684231.342.1526

historicbarnspark.com

Located just one mile from downtown Traverse City, this unique meeting space

provides a one-of-a-kind location for your corporate meeting unlike any other business setting. Inspire your attendees and allow the barn’s historic and rustic charm to create an extraordinary backdrop to your next event.

Introducing the newly restored Cathedral Barn

at Historic Barns Park

Photo by Todd Z courtesy of Environment Architects

Make the meeting more memorable. Tuck a complimentary Vacation Guide into your guests’ welcome bag or hotel room.

Contact Jodi Simpson to request copies: 231-941-5976, [email protected]

planning a meeting in Northern Michigan?



Favorite Offsite Venues

Off-the-Radar Spaces with Allison Beers

The lauded local event planner Allison Beers, founder of Events North (eventsnorth.com), shares her favorite unexpected and off-the-radar spaces for hosting memorable meetings.

Corner Loft“I love the Corner Loft for the bright, open space, sophisticated design and hot-spot location right downtown,” Beers says. This hip location is at once cozy and airy, with state-of-the-art AV and sound equipment (or room for a DJ or live band, if you choose), plus room for up to 130 guests.

201 E. Front St., Traverse City, 231.883.9367, cornerlofttc.com.

City Opera HouseT.C.’s historic opera house, which first opened its doors in 1892, offers a sophisticated setting for events of all sizes right in the heart of downtown. Says Beers: “The City Opera House will never go out of style.” Rental includes use of the lobby, theater and green room, an on-site event manager, event set-up, liquor license, and more. With space for less than 100 guests all the way up to 650.

106 E. Front St., Traverse City, 231.941.8082, cityoperahouse.org.

Kirkbride HallThis new event space is a former chapel in the heart of Building 50, part of a sprawling 19th-century asylum featuring immaculate Victorian-Italianate architectural detail. Thirty-foot ceilings and stained-glass windows make it a dramatic space to hold events that include up to 150 seated reception guests. It’s also located at the Grand Traverse Commons, Traverse City’s 480-acre “Central Park,” featuring hiking and biking trails, an arboretum, the Botanic Gardens, and more. “I love this space for the beauty and functionality,” Beers says. “It’s versatile to fit the needs of many meetings and events.”

700 Cottageview Dr., Suite 200, Traverse City, 231.941.1961, kirkbridehall.com.

Suite at Kirkbride HallBeers loves this dramatic 2,700-square-foot, two-story condomin-ium in the 1885-built chapel of Building 50 for laid-back, luxurious leadership or board retreats. A private-stop elevator delivers you and your crew to the fully furnished space, where details like historic exposed brick and open ceilings make for a hip yet cozy vibe. Main level has two queen bedrooms and a king bedroom; loft has two twin beds and a queen sleeper sofa.

700 Cottageview Dr., Suite 200, Traverse City, 231.941.1961, kirkbridehall.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUITE AT KIRKBRIDE HALL

SUITE AT KIRKBRIDE HALL

Text by Emily Bingham


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Favorite Offsite Venues

ECCOBeers digs this space for its “‘big city–chic feel”—and she’s not alone. Readers of Michigan Meetings + Events magazine crowned ECCO with the award for Best Event Space of the Year in 2014. The open floor plan sprawls out over 5,500 square feet, allowing you to customize to your heart’s content. Elegant and adaptable, with room for up to 319 guests.

121 E. Front St., Traverse City, 231.714.4014, eccotc.com.

Cathedral Barn at Historic Barns ParkThis newly restored historic barn, nestled in the hills at the gorgeous Grand Traverse Commons (a historic hospital complex and arboretum), offers all the charm of the rural North yet is located just a few minutes from downtown T.C. With modern amenities (like heating and A/C for year-round event planning), it’s “rustic without being ‘rustic,’” as Beers puts it. Room for up to 200 people for a seated reception; 399 for a standing cocktail reception.

1500 Red Dr., Traverse City, 231.342.1526, historicbarnspark.com.

Botanic GardensFor smaller retreats and an outdoorsy backdrop, Beers recommends Traverse City’s Botanic Gardens, comprising 25 acres in Historic Barns Park. The bright, beautiful meeting room in the newly renovated Visitor Center—housed in a century-old granary—is available year-round to host special events, and offers space for a maximum of 74 guests (50–55 with tables and chairs). During warmer months, move breakout groups to the adjoining pavilion or stretch your legs with a team hike on the extensive trail system just steps away.

1490 Red Dr., Traverse City, 231.935.4077, thebotanicgarden.org.


THE COMPASS POINTS HERE

CATHEDRAL BARN AT HISTORIC BARNS PARK


Boyne Resorts(Inside Back Cover)844.813.4630boyne.com/meetings

Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau(page 12)800.225.2537cadillacmichigan.com

Cathedral Barn(page 16)231.342.1526historicbarnspark.com

Cherry Capital Airport(page 14)231.947.2250tvcairport.com

Corner Loft(page 12)231.883.9367cornerlofttc.com

Crystal Mountain(page 4)855.746.6733crystalmountain.com

Grand Hotel(Back Cover)517.349.4600grandhotel.com/meetings

Grand Traverse Resort & Spa(pages 6 & 7)800.748.0303grandtraverseresort.com

Kirkbride Hall(page 12)231.941.1961kirkbridehall.com

Mission Point(Inside Front Cover)800.833.5538missionpoint.com

MyNorth Tickets(page 18)800.836.0717mynorthtickets.com

Otsego Grand Event Center(page 12)989.705.2010otsegograndeventcenter.com

Park Place Hotel(page 10)231.946.5000park-place-hotel.com

Show Ready Technologies(page 14)888.651.5411showreadytech.com

The Homestead(page 2)231.334.5000thehomesteadresort.com

Traverse City Tourism(page 14)800-940-1120traversecity.com

Cherry Capital Airport231.947.2250; tvcairport.comAIRLINES: Delta, United, American AirlinesDAILY FLIGHTS TO: Chicago, DetroitSeasonal service: Atlanta, Denver, LaGuardia, Newark, Indianapolis, ClevelandCAR RENTALS: Avis (231.946.1222), Budget (231.947.3883), Enterprise (231.922-2800), Hertz (231.946.7051), National/Alamo (231.947.1560)

Pellston Regional Airport 231.539.8441; pellstonairport.comAIRLINES: Delta ConnectionsNUMBER OF DAILY FLIGHTS TO: Detroit: 2-4 daily (varies seasonally)CAR RENTALS/TRANSPORTATION: Avis (231.539.8302), Hertz (231.539.8404), Mackinaw Shuttle (231.539.7005)

Manistee County Blacker Airport 231.723.4351; flymanistee.comAIRLINES: PublicCharters/North Country SkyNUMBER OF DAILY FLIGHTS TO: Service to Chicago MidwayCAR RENTALS/TRANSPORTATION: Mowry Rental (231.723.4351)

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844.813.4630 | BOYNE.com/meetings

3 Memorable Resorts | 75,000 Sq Ft of Flexible Meeting Space

1,000+ Sleeping Rooms | 30 Distinct Food & Beverage Options

171 Holes of Golf Spanning 11 Spectacular Courses

Michigan’s Largest Ski Resorts with Over 850 Skiable Acres

15 Unique Team Building Activities

Certified Meeting Professional Staff

3 Memorable Resorts | 75,000 Sq Ft of Flexible Meeting Space

1,000+ Sleeping Rooms | 30 Distinct Food & Beverage Options

153 Holes of Golf Spanning 10 Spectacular Courses

Michigan’s Two Largest Ski Resorts with Over 850 Skiable Acres

15 Unique Team Building Activities

Certified Meeting Professional Staff

Harbor Springs, Michigan Bay Harbor, Michigan Boyne Falls, Michigan


�is inclusive package includes accommodations, a full breakfast and ve-course dinner daily and an evening cocktail reception. All meeting spaces are located within the hotel and come with

AV equipment, Wi-Fi, co�ee breaks, free golf greens fees (cart fee required) and a dedicated convention manager. Book 10 rooms or more and receive a complimentary room with meals,

plus receive one VIP upgrade to a Named Room.

For rates and other availability, contact: Director of Sales, Annie Farrell

[email protected] 517-349-4600

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Meetings 2016

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Transcript of Meetings 2016