corporate meetings & events - summer 2011

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Canada’s Premier Publication for Corporate Meeting, Travel & Incentive Professionals

Summer 2011

www.corporatemeetingsandevents.ca

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corporate Meetings & events | 5

Corporate Meetings & Events Volume 12 Number 4

Publisher Chuck Nervick

Associate Publisher Ellen McManus

Managing Editor Sandra Eagle

Senior Designer Annette Carlucci

Production Manager Rachel Selbie

Circulation Lina Trunina

For advertising informationContact Ellen McManus 416-512-8186 ext. [email protected] For editorial enquiriesContact Sandra Eagle 416-512-8186 ext. 265 [email protected]

Printed and published five times per year by MediaEdge Communications Inc.Printed in Canada. Reprint permission requests to use materials published in Corporate Meetings & Events should be directed to the publisher.

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Corporate Meetings & Events subscriptions are available for two years: $80.00*; one year: $45.00*; single copy sales; $10.00* Outside of Canada, USA: $70.00, International: $95.00, *plus applicable taxes. Subscription entitles the recipient to four issues per year plus our Annual Industry Source Book.

MediaEdge Communications Inc. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

President Kevin BrownVice-President Chuck Nervick

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40063056ISSN: 1919-1464Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to:

Editorial Advisory Board

Christine Boon, Director Brands Marketing, IHGAdam Bultz, President, C3 CommunicationsRod Cameron, Executive Director, Convention Centres of CanadaFrank DiRocco, National Director of Sales, Delta HotelsTheodora Douklias, Senior Program Manager, HRG North AmericaDave Gazley, Vice President Meetings & Conventions Sales, Vancouver TourismHeather Lundy, Director of Marketing, Telus Convention Centre, CalgaryDavid Martin, Director, Ted Rogers School of Hospitality - Ryerson UniversityJoe Nishi, Regional Director, Meeting EncoreFrancis Pare, Account Manager, Zeste IncentiveBrad Peters, Director of Conventions and Events, Tourism SaskatoonShelly Sechopoulos, Marketing, Caesars WindsorBrent Taylor, Principal, Timewise Event Management Inc. MarketingAngela Zaltsman, Principal, A TO Z Event Management

TTheBusinessEventsIndustryCouncilofCanadawas formedduring2009when theCanadianmeetingindustrywassufferingdrasticallyduetotheeconomicdownturn.About30ofCanada’slargestindustryassociationsgatheredattheWestinHarbourCastlewithafacilitatortodiscussacalltoactionfortheentiresector.RitaPlaskett,currentchairoftheBEICC,saysit

becameverycleartoeveryoneatthatmeetingthataunitedvoicewascrucialtothewholecommunityincommunicatinghowvaluablethebusinesseventsindustryistotheCanadianeconomy.“WithintheCanadiangovernment,tourismisrecognizedasanindustrysector,whilemeetingsandeventsisnot,andweshouldallbetalkingwithonevoice,thestrongerourvoiceisonmultiplefronts,thegreateranimpactwearegoingtohave.”Shesaysatthattime,“TheCanadianindustrywasinabetterpositionthan

theU.S.,becausewehadalreadydonetheEconomicImpactStudyatthatpointintime,becauseweknewthatthemeetingindustryneededtohavesomeconcretedataandsomeanalysisofoureconomicimpact,whichis32billiondollarsofdirectspendand72billiondollarsofindirectspend.”Soin2010theBEICCwasincorporated,abusinessplanwasdeveloped,andan

advisoryboardputinplacetocementthefoundationasacrediblevoicefortheeventsindustry.Nowthattheeconomyisrallyingwiththeattendantincreaseinmeetingandeventstheraisond’êtreoftheCouncilisinatransitionphase,andPlaskettisreadyforthechallenge.“Clearlythereisastrongconnectionbetweenthemeetingsideandthetourism

sideofourbusinesses,probablyathirdofourbusinessoverlaps.Meetingsandtourismfeedsomewhatoffofeachother,apersoncouldcometoToronto,let’ssayforavacation,anddecidetobringagrouphere.Evenwithmyownbusiness,I’vechosentotakeagrouptoSt.John’s,Newfoundlandnextyearbecauseitmakesgoodbusinesssense,butalreadythepre-andpost-tourismthatishappeningbecauseofthateventhastakenoff.WhenpeoplegetachancetovisittheRock,theyusuallydecidetotackonsomeextravacationtimetoexplorethedestination.Sotourismwillbenefitfromthatmeeting,soitgoesbothways.”Rightnow,thethirdversionoftheEconomicImpactStudyisunderway;with

researchersdrillingdownintotheprovincialdataformeetingspend.Plaskettsays“Ourdatawillbethatmuchmorecompelling,morerobust,becausewehavestatsfor2007ingoodtimes,refreshedin2009intoughtimesandnowwe’regoingouttofieldagaininarecoverytime,sowe’reveryfortunatetohaveatruecomparisonofwhereourindustrywas,andwhereit’sgoingnow.NowthattheessentialbusinessandgovernancefundamentalsoftheBEICC

arefinished,thedifficultnextstepsofstrategyandapproachtogovernmentlobbyingbytheCouncilisnextontheagenda.AlobbyistontheHillneedstospeaktotherightpeoplewiththerightmessage,Plaskettadds,“Therightpersonwhoisconnecteddoesn’thurteither.WhatIdon’twanttodoisraiseanotherroundoffundsfrommembersoftheBEICCtohirealobbyistandastrategicmanagementteamtotalkwithseniorgovernmentofficials.”Findingtherightcoalitionpartneristhenextsteptohavingaconnectedvoiceinthepoliticalcorridorsofpower.

Sandra EagleManaging Editor, CM & E

e d i t o r ’ s n o t e

a VoICe In PoLITICaL CoRRIdoRS

6 | summer 2011

On the RebOund After weathering a couple of tough years, incentive travel returns to corporate Canada. AfterthelingeringeffectsoftheAIGdebacleintheUnitedStatesanda

lingeringrecessiontodealwith,incentivetravelismakingacomebackacrossmostoftheCanadiancorporatelandscape.WhilecorporateCanadadecidedtowaitouttherecessionandshelve

incentivetravelforayearorso,ordecidedtotraveldomestically,incentivecompanieswithadiversifiedclientbasewereabletorideouttheworstoftheeconomiccarnageandmaintainameasureofrecognitiontravelforhighperformingemployees.JoanneKeating,specialprojectsmanagerwithMeridicanIncentive

Consultants,basedinMarkham,Ont.,evensawanuptakeinsomeclient’sbusinessduringtheworstoftherecession.“Intoughtimes,thegrocerybusinesstendstogrow,becausepeoplearen’teatingoutasmuch.Soastheirbusinessincreased,theyrecognizedtheirfranchiseeswithanincentivetravelprogram.Theyalsorolledouttheirmarketingplanforthecomingyearanditwasagreatnetworkingopportunity.”Partofthechallenge,Keatingexplains,isconvincingtheshareholder

andthenon-involvedemployeesabouttheimportanceofincentivetravel,especiallywhenstockisslidingorthere’sbeenlayoffs.Sheadds,“Intimesofrecessionthat’swhenyouneedincentivesthemost.Salesdrivemostcompanies,sotoboostthesalesforcewhenthenegativityintheindustryispervasive,it’scriticaltoboostmorale.Withthesalesgeneratingincentiveplan,its’somucheasiertoshowthefinancialimpact.Non-salesincentivesaremuchhardertoshowthereturnoninvestment.(ROI)”


c o v e r s t o r y

c o v e r s t o r y

Budget BasicsAsforbudgets,clientsthathavetakenayearoffarenowbackandraring togo.KathleenJones,businesssolutionsmanagerforHalifax-basedFraser&HoytIncentives,says“Thosecompaniesthatdidtakeabreakordiddosomebudgetcutsorstayeddomesticallywanttoreturnwithabigbangwhentheyre-launch.Theywanttogettheirpeopleexcitedagain,becauseit’sanobviousdisappointmentwhencompanypersonnelareused togoingtothesetopnotchdestinationsandthatchanges.”ForKeating,budgetsarebasicallyatthe

statusquolevelorhavejustminimallydeclined.“Inthispastyear,”shesays,“therehasbeensomegreatopportunitieswithourhotelpartners,wewereabletousesomeof thebudget realized fromlowerhotelcoststopayairfareswhichhavebeen increasingbecause of fuel

8 | summer 2011

surcharges.Withthetwooffsettingit ’s been great, and also a hugecontributingfactoristheU.S.dollarbeingatpar.We’re certainlyabletoofferagreatbangforthebuck.Ithinkthestatusquoforbudgetswillholdforatleastacoupleofyears,andthenasthehotelratesbegintocreepupwewillseethebudgetsincreaseaccordingly.”Nico l a Ka s t ne r, CMP,CMM,

director,CWTMeetings&Events,OperationsNorthAmerica,basedinMississauga,Ont., says,“We’redefinitelyseeingareturntopreAIG-effectlevelsintermsofvolumesofthetrips,thestructureofthetripsand the extravaganceof the tripshascertainlychangedandcontinuesto change. The volumes and thecompaniesoperating

Prague

themhavereturnedtonormal.Wealsosee that companies are committingmuchfurtherout,wearedoingalotofworkrightnowon2013programs.”

Luxe Locales And because of the strengthof theCanadian dollar, Europe and SouthAmericaarere-emergingasdestinationhotspots.Kastnersays,“Althoughwe’restill seeing traditional travel to theCaribbean,Panamaispopularrightnow,andwe’recertainlyseeingmoreEurope.MadridandBarcelonainSpain,PragueandtheCzechRepublicishot.Monacoisagreatvalue,IcandoaMonacoincentiveprogramforlessthanIcandooneinNewYork.NewYorkisagreatdestination--it’scertainlyappealingandpeopleloveit,butyouneedatop-endbudgetforit.”Keating ispersonallyrunningsix

programs this year. “Rightnowwehaveaprogramgoing toParis, andoneisactuallyinPrague.Mysmallest

groupisgoingtotheNapaValley.”Interestingly, she says a long-hauldestinationisquitepopularrightnow,Hawaii.“HawaiiseemstobeoneofthehottestdestinationsinAmerica.It’salongwaytogobutalotofpeoplehaveitontheirwishlist.Withthedollaratparit’saffordablerightnow.Hotelsareprovidingreallywonderfulrates,toincentustopromoteitandofferitinourplanningprocess.We’vequotedMauiandOahubecausethere’smoredirectnon-stopserviceoutofVancouverandCalgary.”BothKeatingandKastnersaythatAsianandPacificRimtravelisalmostnon-existentrightnow.“Asiaisjusttoofar,”saysKeating.“Welookedatitlastyearforaclient.Maybeforareallytopincentiveprogramthatcanaffordfirst-classair.”

Monaco


Prague

According to Nicola Kastner, these three criteria should be part of every single incentive:

1. It should contain elements of surprise and delight, you should keep your group guessing.

2. It should be an experience the group could not do on their own.

3. You shouldn’t be able to put a price-tag on it.

10 | summer 2011

sh a r i ng wh i ch i s what a l lorganizationsneed.We’re certainlyseeingthattrend.Fromaparticipant’sperspectivethatopportunityforone-on-onefacetimetointeractwithanexecutiveisverypowerfulaswell.”Keatingadds that aneducational

component is also gaining groundduringanincentivetrip.“Alotofthewinnersdowanttohaveaneducationalcomponentaspartoftheirnetworkingwitheachotherandwithhigher-levelexecutivesthatarepartoftheteam.”Anothercomponentoftheincentive

travelprogramthathaschangedisgivingparticipantssomecompletelyfreetimeontheirown.Keatingexplains;“Ourgroupstodayarewell-travelled.Givinggroupsacompletelyfreedayisveryimportantastheyhavetheirownideasofwhattheywanttodoinadestination.Asanexample,forherupcomingParistrip,thefirstdaythegrouparrives,ateam

Maui

c o v e r s t o r y

Program Perks Besides a return to somewhat exoticlocales,thereareafewtweakstomostprograms thatwereadirect resultoftheAIG-effect andprogrambudgets.Insteadofacompletebreakfrombusiness,there are now scheduled meet ingsduringtheprogram.Budgetsfordécorandextravagantroom-dropgiftshavedeclined.Program-wise there ismorechoiceofactivities,includingcommunity-based CSR and more f ree t ime forparticipants.ForKastner,havingthetopperforming

employees and senior-level executivestogetherisapowerfulbusinessopportunity.“Combining a true business sessionwithinanincentiveisreallysmart,fromanorganizationalperspectivebecauseifyouthinkaboutit,youhaveallthesetopperformersandyour seniorexecutivestogetherinaplacewheretheycancreatemeaningfuldialogueand information

scavengerhunthelpsthemunderstandthesubwaysystem.“Soonthefreedaywe’llgivethemasubwaypassandamuseumpassandtheycandecidewhatmuseumtheywanttovisitandhowmuchtimetheywanttospendthere.That’sreallyimportanttoourgroups,beingabletoexplorewhattheywantontheirown.”Besides free time, another desirablecomponentofagrouptripisacommunityserviceproject.Keating’sgroupshavebuiltschools,builtpicnictablesandputinagardeninSt.Lucia.“It’saboutandleavingapositivefootprintintheareasthatwevisit.Soifhalfofourgroupwantsto incorporate that typeofactivity itinvigoratesthewholegroup.It’sextremelyemotional.”Afterweathering theAIGstorm,

Canadianincentivetravelplannersarehappytobebusy,withrelativelysmoothsailingaheadforatleastthenextyearortwo.

Barcelona


Oahu

Paris

c o v e r s t o r y

Paris

CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM EMERGES At the 2010 IRF Roundtables, approximately four in ten par ticipants said the economy has had a slightly positive impact on their ability to plan and implement non-cash incentive (travel/merchandise) programs. Although this f igure is considerably better than this time last year, optimism is rightfully tempered by the fragile and emerging state of the U.S economy.

REDEFINING EXTRAVAGANCE VS. NECESSITY As people, we are now more sensitive to – and wary of – extravagance in all forms. In the IRF roundtables, 33 per cent of participants saw a switch from international to domestic travel as well as a reduction in the length of trips.

PREFERRING EXPERIENCE OVER PRODUCT People are beginning to clamor more for experiences than products. Just over 40 per cent of roundtable participants say they expect that individual travel will increase as a result of this change in personal preference. Experience has always been a strong part of incentive travel, but now must also become more present in merchandise incentives.

NON-CASH RECOGNITION ON THE RISE There is a strong interest in the use of non-financial motivators. According to McKinsey, three non-cash motivators – praise from immediate managers; attention from leaders; and a chance to direct projects – are at least as effective as the three most highly rated monetary methods.

CHANGING SOCIAL INFLUENCERS A number of indicators point toward a reprioritization of “what’s important” to many individuals. This trend impacts what we buy, where we invest and where we choose to work. In its Global Workforce Study, Towers Watson found that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is the third most important driver of employee engagement overall. As such, incorporating elements of health and sustainability into programs moving forward will be crucial.

COMMUNICATION = SOCIAL MEDIA Cost and service pressures will see more firms developing social media engagement strategies that encompass customers, prospects, suppliers and partners. Integrating technologies into one cohesive strategy will be key for successful incentive programs in the future.

IT’S A VIRTUAL WORLD According to Bernstein Research, over the next 10 to 15 years, virtual meetings could replace up to 70 per cent of internal travel (to and from an organization's own facilities) and 10 per cent of external travel (trips to visit customers).This could lead to an aggregate reduction of 21 per cent in corporate travel spending. Accommodating vir tual products and solutions into an incentive plan will be an important part of programs moving forward.

GAMES HAVE NEW MEANING The growth of computer games using token economies will continue in the retail markets and will be explored for application to employee and channel motivation programs. Multiple organizations have already added computer games to their incentive program promotion, communications and/or training. More and more games are using token economies (“points”) as an award for improved performance and it will only be a short time before gaming and token economies will be mainstream in employee and channel reward for performance programs.

For more information on the Incentive Research Foundation and a copy of the full report go to: www.theirf.org.

GOING, GOING, GONE…GLOBAL By 2015, more than 50 per cent of Brazilians, Indians and Chinese will be considered “middle income,” consumers. In January 2011, Google searches on “employee engagement” were ten times higher in India than in the U.S., five times higher in Singapore and four times higher in South Africa. India is now ranked third in searches for “employee recognition” – just behind the U.S. and Philippines. And India was just behind the U.S. in searches for “sales incentives.” This shows immense promise for incentives services overseas.

The Incentive Research Foundation, based in St. Louis, MO., is a private not-for-profit foundation that funds research studies and develops products serving all segments of the global incentive industry. With permission, here are their Top 11 Incentive Travel Trends for 2011.

ADJUSTING TO A ‘NEW NORMAL’ Fully 60 per cent of IRF roundtable participants said business seems to be settling into a new lower level of activity. Organizations are star ting to adapt rather than reduce or eliminate programs. In the roundtable discussions, participants spoke of developing new ways to justify programs, reevaluating business models, and focusing only on business prospects with well-qualified potential. This includes molding travel programs to fit into budgetary constraints, which often included a reduction in qualifiers, fewer management attendees, fewer room gifts and less than five-star properties.

INCREASING GOVERNMENT INVOLVEMENT All aspects of the incentive business face greater government influence. Along with the known travel pressures, the 2009 Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure Act installed new notif ication and fee requirements on all debit card providers. However, thanks to the work of the Network Branded Prepaid Card Association (NBPCA), the ECO-Gift Card Act was passed, extending the implementation deadline for the legislation to Jan. 31, 2011, ensuring that over a hundred million cards did not have to be destroyed.

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Incentive Travel Trends for 2011TOP 11

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Uniquevenuesaregreattopiquetheinterestofdelegatesandcanoffercreativeopportunitiestoincorporatethevenueintoathemeormessagerelevanttoyourgroup.Unfortunately,thoseverysamevirtuescanalsocreateahostofaudiovisualchallenges.Detailedsiteinspectionsarecrucialandplansneedtoincludeall

aspectsoftheevent.Siteinspectionsareakeytoanyeventbutevenmoresowithuniquevenues.Nooneinvolvedwantsanysurprises.Bydefinitionauniquevenueishardtocategorizesoitrequires

creativesolutions.Auniquevenuecanrangefromahistoricbuilding,ahockeyarena,abeachonalake,afield,anairportrunway,theroofofabuilding,aboatorthemiddleofabridge.Theavailabilityandqualityofpowerisoftenakeyconcern.Where

ispowerlocatedandhowmuchofitisthere?WhatelsebesidesAVisgoingtorequirepower?Arethereenoughcircuitsavailablesothatanygroundingissuescanberesolved?Acommongroundingissueiswhenaudioandlightingsystemssharethesameelectricalcircuit.Everythingcanlookandsoundgreatuntilthelightingdimmersareadjustedandthenaloudaudiobuzzruinstheambiance.Ifpowerisanissuecantemporarysourcesbebroughton-site?Ifyouarebringingageneratorwillitbequietenoughtonotdisrupttheevent?Deliveringintelligibleaudioisalmostalwaysachallengeataunique

venue.Howmanydelegateswillattendandwherewilltheybe?Thesoundsystemneedstobedesignedtoreacheveryone.Manyhistoricbuildingshavewonderfulgrandfoyerstoholdan

event.Oftenthismeansthatthereareveryhighceilingsandthewalls,floorsandceilingsaremadeofhardmaterials(thinkgraniteandmarble).Thismeansthatsoundwavesarenotabsorbedbythebuildingenvelopeandinsteadtheybounceoffthewallsasreverberations.Toomuchreverbandthesoundbecomesmuddyandrenderedunintelligible.Inthissituationmanysmallspeakersshouldbeplacedasclosetotheaudienceaspossiblesotheymovetheairaslittleaspossible.Largespeakerstacksatthesideofthestagewillsendstrongsoundwavesthatbouncebackandfortharoundtheroom.Manysmallspeakersproducinglowervolumeswillhelpcontrolthesoundwaves.Thewindisalwaysavariableatanoutdoorevent.Atestonacalm

eveningwon’tgiveyouthesoundyouneedifa60kilometergustsstartsblowingthesetandsoundawayontheeventnight.Bepreparedwithmorepowerthanyouthinkyou’llneed.Windalsointerferes

withmicrophoneperformancesotheyshouldalwayssportawindscreenthoughitmaynotbeenoughdependingonthestrengthanddirectionofthewind.Windalsobringsupsafetyconcerns.AVequipmentmustbeset

upsecurelyandplansshouldbeinplaceforquickchangesduetotheweather.Weoftensetuplargeprojectionscreensoutdoorsandarealwayscognizantofanychangesinthewindandwilltakedownthescreensbeforeitbecomesanissue.InlandAVhasprovidedAVsupport for theMogathon

marathoneventinSaskatoon.Oneofthechallengesofamarathonisthattheparticipantsarescatteredoveralargearea.Wirelessvideobroadcastinghasgiventhemarathoneventamorepersonalfeel.Thecrowdswaitingatthefinishline(thisisasocialeventwith30km,halfmarathon,10k,5kmandNo-KmBeerRuncategories)seeportionsoftheraceasdramaunfolds,notjustthelast30secondsoftheevent.Videoprojectionbringsotherchallenges.Projectionscreens

andsomemonitorsdonotworkwellinsunlight.Thefarthernorthyouventureinthesummer,thelaterthesunstaysup.Manytentsaretranslucentandprojectionwillnotworkwell.Manyindoorvenuesalsohavelargewindowstoletthenaturalsunlightcomestreamingin.Somecanbeeasilycoveredbutothersmayruintheroomambience.Infraredtechnologydoesnotworkinsunlight.Ifyouare

lookingatusingsimultaneousinterpretationforanoutdoordaytimeevent,thenFMtransmissionwouldberequired.ThesameinfraredissuecanaffectotherwirelessequipmentsuchasmonitorremotesandwirelesslaptopcontrolofPowerPointtypepresentations.Theuniquevenuecandeliveramemorableeventbutyouneed

toplanandconsiderthepossible“whatifs”toensureeverythinggoesaccordingtoplan.

Ralph Niekamp, Inland AV Saskatoon general manager, addresses audiovisual considerations important to event planners. As a branch manager, Niekamp brings a unique perspective as he is involved in both permanent systems design and integration and AV rental applications.

Wired for

Av i n s i g h t

14 | summer 2011

sound And Light

Advertising Supplement to CM&E Summer 2011 1

c h i c m e e t i n g s a n d e v e n t s o n t h e w a t e r

c o r p o r a t e y a c h tTHE

The 2011 Canadian Gaming SummitThe 2011 Canadian Gaming SummitEvent Case Study

Photo credit: Tourism Vancouver

Special Supplement

Vancouver_Supplement_2011_5.indd 1 11-08-05 3:19 PM

2 Event Case Study Advertising Supplement to CM&E Summer 2011 3

Coming off the high of the successful 2010 Olympics, it’s easy to see why delegate registration is higher when an event is held in Vancouver. With spectacular natural scenery, ease of accessibility from the Vancouver International Airport and renowned hotel facilities, the Canadian Gaming Summit decided to bring attendees back to the West Coast.

The three-day summit incorporates educational seminars and plenary sessions, networking events, an awards program, a golf tournament and exhibition to showcase the most innovative and cutting edge products for the gaming industry.

Chris Torry, operations manager for the

event since 2008, says “the esthetically beautiful Vancouver Convention Centre, in a great city is a hard combination to beat.” The Gaming Summit needs space of about 50,000 sq. ft. for the two-day trade show, a large room for about 500 for the daily plenary keynote and numerous break-out rooms for concurrent sessions. Educational sessions run throughout the three-day event with over 100 speakers covering many industry topics such as marketing and communications, finance, legal and regulatory issues, human resources and security.

AVW-TELAV provided audio-visual expertise at the Vancouver Convention Centre, for the break-out educational

seminars and plenary sessions. Torry says their professional and knowledgeable staff were great to work with and set-up execution at the convention centre was handled with ease. He also notes that the site technicians were quick to react to the inevitable last minute audio-visual requests of speakers.

With about 1,500 attendees streaming into the downtown core, Torry needed hotel space close enough to the convention centre for the show, but with an upscale feel for the level of executive that typically attends. This year, the Fairmont Pacific Rim, the Fairmont Waterfront and the Pan Pacific Vancouver were chosen as host hotels.

15th Annual Canadian Gaming Summit ups the Ante in Vancouver

Let the Games Begin

When the executives of the Canadian gaming world rolled into town for their annual summit, the host city of Vancouver and related partners made sure it was an event to remember.

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4 Event Case Study Advertising Supplement to CM&E Summer 2011 5

Luxurious AccommodationsChuck Nervick, vice-president of MediaEdge, organizers of the Gaming Summit, says “We take a pretty good-size room block; we need well-appointed rooms with good views. The gaming industry is used to the glitz and glamour of Vegas, so we certainly can’t select a hotel that doesn’t meet their stringent requirements. We try to take a conservative room block to protect against attrition charges, but we usually book about 1500 room nights.” Work-out facilities are a must and a number of suites are required as some senior executives do carry out business in private.

Nervick adds, “This year we were very happy with the new Fairmont Pacific Rim that opened up just before the 2010 Olympics.” Room views overlook Robson Street, the water or the mountains. The Fairmont Pacific Rim offers 15,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, three luxurious ballrooms can accommodate up to 400 people. Two boardrooms, three meeting rooms and a state-of-the-art multi-media theatre are available. For a unique outdoor venue, the spectacular Chairman’s suite deck is ideal for hosting dinner events of up to 60 people, or receptions of up to 100. Nervick adds, “We were so impressed with the Fairmont Pacific Rim that we held our opening night reception there.” The Pearl meeting room overlooks the convention centre and the waters of Coal Harbour and Howe Sound. Nervick says this year the room was dressed with an Olympic theme and people dropped in at the reception to network and chat. TVs were displayed around the room to keep delegates apprised of Stanley Cup playoffs.

Another block of rooms were reserved at The Fairmont Waterfront. Over 300 of 489 guest rooms overlook the harbour, offering spectacular views of the neighbouring mountain peaks. The remaining accommodations have splendid city skyline views of Vancouver, and overlook the hotels third-floor herb garden. The hotel offers 14 meeting rooms, some with natural light, and 24,000 sq. ft. of function space to accommodate from ten – 600 guests.

The opulent Pan Pacific Vancouver rounded out the trio of hotels for the Summit. This 500 room hotel, with 11 luxurious suites

also overlooks the spectacular scenery of the Vancouver waterfront. The hotel is close to the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Vancouver World Trade Centre, Robson Street shopping and the cruise ship Terminal. The eighth floor patio features a heated salt-water pool, Jacuzzi, saunas and lounge areas. Planners will appreciate the 42,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space with 20 versatile meeting and event rooms to handle business and social events of every size and description.

Great GolfGolf is an important part of the Gaming Summit and this year the group returned to Furry Creek, considered by many to be the most scenic course in the province. Located about 35 minutes north of Vancouver via the Sea to Sky Highway, the spectacular scenery and eclectic golf holes are a must play for the occasional or serious golfer. “It’s an absolutely beautiful golf course,” says Nervick, “there are snow peaked mountains, abundant wildlife and spectacular sea views. We took advantage of one of their golf packages, took over the entire course and had a pre-event breakfast buffet and a BBQ lunch after play was done. I was very impressed with their staff.”

Evening Sail On the second day of the Summit, a VIP reception is held for invited guests and this year the group took to sea.

Nervick says “We try to look at all the different venue options in a particular city that we do the Gaming Summit in.” He says there is a pretty high bar for this one particular event. “There are a couple of things that we needed to deliver, high-end Scotch, exquisite hors d’oeuvres and the gaming community also likes to smoke the occasional cigar. A lot of people who come to the Gaming Summit are from the U.S. where they can’t get Cuban cigars, so it’s become a bit of a tradition to have them for this event. With smoking legislation, we are a lot more restricted on where we can go.” All of the “must-haves” on the checklist was met by hiring the Sunset Bay II yacht, from the Sunset Bay Yacht Group. “This year’s VIP reception was met with glowing reviews,” says Nervick.

Invited guests boarded the ship dockside, grabbed a drink and something to eat and set sail just as the lights were starting to illuminate the city. Two interior decks and the upper level deck offer unobstructed

views of the coastline. Luxurious leather seating, a spiral staircase and bars on all levels upped the ante on the luxe. The yacht sailed under the Lions Gate Bridge and into Burrard Inlet and False Creek. Nervick adds, “By the time we turned around and came into port again, the lights had fully come up, so we could see Lions Gate Bridge and all the lights of Vancouver. It’s unusual at a reception where people actually stop talking and just look. But people were looking and pointing at things. We selected the right venue for the VIPs and it was just a great evening.”

Awards GALAThe final night of the Summit includes an Awards Gala, featuring a reception, dinner and entertainment. Depending on the city where the Summit is held, organizers try to give back to a gaming industry venue. This year they worked with Great Canadian Gaming, at the River Rock Casino. The entertainment complex can be set up as a theatre-type setting or a dining room. The gala included the 15th Annual Gaming Industry Awards and the 2nd Annual First Nation Canadian Gaming Awards. Special Olympics British Columbia was chosen as this year’s event charity. Guests were seated in rounds. The 21,000 sq. ft. multi-use entertainment venue features a state-of-the-art seating system that allows the theatre to transform into a convention or meeting room in minutes. Planners can take advantage of a full in-house production team with experienced staff and crew to manage technical production. Nervick adds “Our awards component happened on stage throughout the dinner, I had a chance to sit backstage and see how people handled our guest entertainer, Wayne Brady pre- and post-event. They gave me the prompting I needed and the awards went extremely well.” The casino features a 202 room hotel and five meeting rooms with 7,000 sq. ft of space. The Show Theatre also converts to an 8,000-sq.-ft. trade show floor. Vancouver’s natural beauty, combined with superb hotel facilities close to the convention centre, was instrumental in bringing the 2011 Canadian Gaming Summit to the West Coast. The added bonus of spectacular golf and great options for group activities makes Vancouver a popular destination of choice for corporate planners. ●

Fairmont Pacific Rim, Vancouver

Gaming Summit

Gaming Summit

The Fairmont Waterfront, Vancouver

Furry Creek, Hole #1

Pan Pacific, Vancouver

Sunset Bay II

Gaming SummitGaming Summit

Vancouver_Supplement_2011_5.indd 4-5 11-08-04 4:10 PM

6 Event Case Study6 Event Case Study

Thank youto our Sponsors

Best known as “BC’s most scenic golf course”, Furry Creek is one of the most beautifully landscaped playgrounds in the province. Furry Creek is not a course that one merely plays - it is an enriching adventure to be savoured. Every hole on this 6,025 yard, 18-hole challenging course inspires with breathtaking scenery and invigorating play.

Our award-winning Clubhouse evokes as much awe as the pristine environment that surrounds it. Come inside and enjoy a memorable dining experience at the Sea to Sky Grill, serving casual cuisine inspired by the west coast and the freshest local favourites. Make Furry Creek your next BC golf destination, and discover for yourself how beautifully rewarding a golf course can be.

Julie Dennis, Sales & Marketing [email protected] | 1.888.922.9462 x225

AVW-TELAV supports the power of face-to-face marketing by providing full-service resources for corporate events, exhibit programs, expositions and conventions of all sizes. Services are provided coast to coast and include audio visual and computer rental solutions, event staging, simultaneous interpretation, audience response systems, webcasting, press conferences, and digital services including presentation management. AVW-TELAV also designs and installs audio visual and video conferencing solutions for training, boardroom and meeting applications.

Mike Dosch, General Managerwww.avwtelav.com | 604-255-1151

c h i c m e e t i n g s a n d e v e n t s o n t h e w a t e r

c o r p o r a t e y a c h tTHE

Chic meetings and events on the water. Experience unsurpassed elegance, world class cuisine and service, and stunning views aboard The Corporate Yacht. Entertain and reward your clients, staff and friends by hosting your next event on Vancouver’s only luxury private charter yacht.

Elizabeth Showman, Sales [email protected] | 604-681-7700

An oasis tucked at the ocean’s edge, Fairmont Pacifi c Rim offers unobstructed views of the mountains, Stanley Park and Coal Harbour. The 377-room luxury hotel features lavish appointments, naturally inspired materials, comfortable furnishings and state-of-the-art technology. Looking to relax? Enjoy the Willow Stream spa with outdoor terrace and Jacuzzis, rooftop pool, private cabanas and fi re pits, and full exercise room. For meetings, the hotel boasts 15,000 square feet of versatile space, a multi-media theatre, business centre, and direct connection to the Vancouver Convention Centre. Dining options include ORU - a Pan-Asian bistro, Giovane - an Italian café, and Lobby Lounge with live entertainment six nights a week.

Siaochi Leong, Sales [email protected]

604-695-5441

The Fairmont Waterfront hotel showcases the best of Vancouver. Guestrooms are spacious and elegantly appointed and showcase spectacular city, mountain and harbour views through fl oor-to-ceiling windows.

Conveniently situated beside the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal, connected to the Vancouver Convention Centre and just steps away from trendy eateries in historic Gastown, Robson Street shops, Stanley Park and the beautiful Seawall, our waterfront hotel has a central location ideal for any stay.

This urban resort will inspire guests to explore Vancouver in unique ways with guided morning runs, sunrise rooftop yoga, complimentary BMW bicycles and tours of the rooftop herb garden and honeybee apiary.

A local landmark of award-winning distinction, the Fairmont Waterfront has earned numerous industry accolades including the Condé Nast Traveler Magazine’s Gold List as a Top Canadian Hotel for 10 consecutive years. Deeply committed to green initiatives, the hotel achieved a 5 Green Key ranking in 2011, signifying the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility.

From luxury accommodations and welcoming amenities to genuine warmth and pitch perfect service, the Fairmont Waterfront is committed to delivering spectacular authentically local stays.

Claire Foster, Sales [email protected] | 604-691-1914

Located atop the magnifi cent Canada Place complex – home of the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre, the award winning, luxury Pan Pacifi c Vancouver, offers 42,000 square feet of meeting and event space and caters to events of every size and description. Along with breathtaking panoramic views of the harbour, mountains

or city skyline from the exquisitely appointed guestrooms & suites, guests experience memorable fi rst class service and amenities, including fi ne dining, outdoor saltwater pool and Spa.

Jennifer Musey, Sales Coordinatorjennifer.musey@panpacifi cvancouver.com | 604-891-2865

Vancouver_Supplement_2011_5.indd 6 11-08-04 4:11 PM

OVERVIEW� e environment and magni� cent surroundings of Vaughan Estate, McLean House and the Coach House are unparalleled in their charm and provide a picturesque backdrop for any social or corporate event. � ese splendid mansions and their 40 acres of manicured grounds make the Estates of Sunnybrook the ideal setting for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, bar and bat mitzvahs, corporate meetings and any other special occasions. But they o� er far more than one of Toronto’s most beautiful locations: Years of experience in event planning and catering ensure that your celebration will be a success.

MEMORABLE MOMENTSAn important cause: � e Estates of Sunnybrook are on the campus of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and we are proud to say that revenues generated from the Estates are contributed to further research at the hospital.

416 487 3841 • 2075 Bayview Avenue • Toronto, Ontario

11150_EstateSunnybrook_2011.indd 1 11-08-04 6:13 PM

Tell Us about yourself. I have always been client service driven, even from a really young age (12-yrs-old) when I used to answer the phones in my Dad’s office and work the bridal shows for my step-mother who worked at Wedding Bells Magazine. My payment was usually being taken to Harvey’s for lunch. In 1989 I got my first job in the hotel industry working the switchboard of a large hotel here in Ottawa. I fell in love with the industry and chose to study Hotel / Restaurant Management at Algonquin College in the Fall of 1990. Just

after graduation, I moved to Kingston, Ont., and worked as a guest services representative, in one of the best family- owned hotels in the city. In 1995 I moved

back to Ottawa and got a job with the Ramada Hotel (now the Holiday Inn and Suites. In 1997 I left there and over the then next few years bounced back and

forth between Kingston and Ottawa holding management positions with three different chains. In the Spring of 1999 my mother was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s

Disease) and I took a leave of absence from the industry I loved so much to care for and spend time with my mom. It’s a decision I have

never regretted. In the Fall of 1999 I was offered a temporary help contract with Health Canada at PMRA as their receptionist. The rest is history. I have been here ever since. I am married to a great guy – 11 years – and have two very wonderful and insanely energetic boys (nine and six years old). Although I was born and raised in Ottawa and work here, I call Arnprior in the Ottawa Valley home.

Tell us about your work. My job has changed over the years I have been with Health Canada. My main function is to plan and facilitate large meetings and events for PMRA. My hospitality and client service background has served me well. I organise everything from meeting space to guest room blocks, AV requirements and hospitality, always keeping in mind that I have policies to follow and that I must remain fiscally responsible to the taxpayer. I’m always negotiating for a better deal.

How did you get to where you are today? IalwaysthoughtIwouldhaveacareerinthehotelindustry.Myoriginalcareergoalwastoworkandmanageacateringdepartmentinlargehotelorconventioncentre.Ineverthoughtmyexpertiseandknowledgecouldbetransferredtothefederalgovernment.Ihavebeenveryfortunatethatmycareerhastakenthepathit’sonbecauseIhadagreatbossthatgavemeopportunitiesandsawmypotential.

Walk us through a typical day at work: One thing I can say for sure is that no day is typical for me. It’s government after all. Policies and procedures seem to change on a daily basis. With the conference that I’m currently working on, I’m constantly looking over details, reviewing hotel room pick up, planning out the meeting room set up and

Andrea Wagner

M e e t i n g P L A n n e r P r o f i L e

Name: Andrea Wagner

Present: Supervisor, Conference and Event Services for Health Canada – Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA)

Past: 15 years of client service in the hotel industry, Government Contracting and Procurement Officer; PMRA Recognition Awards Coordinator; Co-Chair – Employee Events Committee.

Expertise: Over 20-years in providing top-notch client service and planning resources and advice to both external (stakeholders and suppliers) and internal clients (employees).

Specialty: Planning logistical details and offering creative and cost effective ways to conduct meetings and events to the management and employees of PMRA while abiding by the policies and procedures set out by Treasury Board.

AV/Interpretation requirements, getting contracts reviewed and signed. On top of that I supervise three individuals who assist with travel plans for participants, help coordinate group activities and work closely with me to ensure I have answers for my assistant deputy minister. My section sets up internal training for the PMRA as well as employee social and recognition events. We have roughly 500 employees in my branch.

Why are you good at what you do? Throughout my career I have had great managers and mentors that have seen my potential and have allowed me to develop the things I love doing. I’ve never been afraid to take on a task, make mistakes or ask for help. Having been on the hotel side of things, I have an understanding of the industry that maybe some others don’t. Good client service is extremely important to me. Also, I try not to sweat the details if something doesn’t go quite right, I just look to the experts to help find a solution and move on from there. I love getting out and meeting suppliers and developing a personal rapport with them. It just makes it that much easier when trying to facilitate a meeting or event. I’d like to think that I’m pretty easy going and fun to work with as a client.

What are some of the challenges you face? Budget, budget, budget – or lack of it these days. Being fiscally responsible is not a challenge – it’s a requirement of working in government. It’s finding creative ways to do what needs to get done while staying responsible to the Canadian people. The suppliers in the industry are conscious of this fact are great to work with.

What have been some of your biggest achievements? Every event that I plan is a huge achievement especially when there are outside participants in attendance. A conference that I’m planning for the Fall is a first for our Agency. Participants are coming from all over the world to attend this and it’s exciting to see it all coming together. This will certainly be my biggest achievement to ensure it runs smoothly and that the assistant Deputy Minister is happy. I also love planning events for the staff like our annual Summer Kick-Off BBQ, August Corn Roast and our Christmas Lunch. To see everyone relaxing and having a good time is the best reward. At Christmas our agency runs a food drive for the Ottawa Food Bank. We turn it into a competition between the different divisions within the PMRA to see who can raise the most food items and cash. The winner gets bragging rights and a coffee break for all of their employees. As the lead for this event I push all employees to get involved. This past year our Agency raised over $13,000 for the Ottawa Food Bank. If I had to pinpoint an achievement that I’m most proud of it would be that one.

What do you like best about the meetings industry? I enjoy the people aspect of this industry, dealing with the suppliers and getting out and researching interesting and unique venues. It’s great when everything come together and how no two events are ever the same. Through MPI Ottawa I have had a chance to meet so many great people and have made great connections. There is still so much I can learn and I can hopefully start working towards my CMP. This is definitely an industry I hope to be in for a very long time whether I stay in government or return to the private sector.


Andrea Wagner

www.estatesofsunnybrook.com tel. 416. 487. 3841 ◆ 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto

◆ 17 unique meeting rooms ◆ all rooms with natural lighting◆ 40 acres of beautiful gardens

◆ customized meeting packages◆ 10 minutes from downtown

◆ 5 minutes from Highway 401◆ complimentary onsite parking

Ideal for corporate meetings, product launches, team building,

galas, and holiday parties.

Book Your Next Meeting With Us.

e x c l u s i v e ◆ p r o d u c t i v e ◆ a f f o r d a b l e

It pays to meet in Québec City.

In the Web 2.0 world, face-to-face meetings are still the best way to generate momentum. Nothing beats face time for fostering direct communication, instant feedback and team spirit—and nothing beats Québec City as the business destination where it all comes together.

With its world-class convention facilities, outstanding accommodations and services, and unique blend of Old World French charm and modern North American convenience, Québec City has everything you need to generate the momentum that will make your event a success.

Talk to Québec City Tourism’s planning representatives and business partners, and seize the momentum today.

It pays to meet in

TRY TO CREATE SUCH A MOMENTUM

ON SKYPETM !Québec City Tourism and its partners are proud

to offer you the second edition of Momentum magazine to help you discover everything

the Québec City area has to offer. We look forward to hosting your next business meeting!

Order your copy or read it online at

quebecregion.com/business

Québec City Tourism and its partners are proud to offer you the second edition of Momentum

magazine to help you discover everything the Québec City area has to offer. We look

forward to hosting your next business meeting! Order your copy or read it online at

quebecregion.com/business

RÉGIS FLEURYAccount Executiveregis.fl [email protected], ext. 5424

NANCY DACRESAccount [email protected], ext. 5427

Our Account Execs help you every step of the way on the road to success. Logistical experts, they have boundless ideas for making your business meeting a truly sustainable event.

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Fromthere,heheadedtoEuropeworkingatMichaelCainesatTheRoyalClarenceand the two-Michelin-starredRelais&Chateauxinn,GidleighPark.ReturningtoCanada,hejoinedtheLibertyEntertainmentGroup,risingtothepositionofExecutiveChef, Rosewater Room, after holdingvariouspositionsatTheLibertyGrandEntertainmentComplex.In2007,heheadedtoNewYorkasexecutivesouschefattheWNewYorkHotel.AyearlaterhejoinedOliver&Bonaciniforthere-launchoftheTorontoBoardofTrade.PresidingoverthekitchensattheToronto

BoardofTrade,MalaparteattheTIFFBellLightboxandtheArcadianCourt,hisloveofavarietyofcuisinesserveshimwellintheeventspacehecatersto.“Wehavethreeeventspacesthey’reallverydifferent,theToronto

BoardofTradeisverycorporate,MalaparteandtheArcadianCourtarealittlemoresocial.Ourphilosophyisthatyou’regoingtogetO&Bqualityandrestaurant-stylefoodinaneventsetting.IfindthatdinersinTorontoarefamiliarwithsomanydifferentcuisinesandingredients,whichisgreatbecausewecanplayaroundwithourmenus,andadddifferentflarefromcuisinesaroundtheglobe.Theirpalatesareprettysophisticated,especiallyinMalaparte.”Somet imes Chef Meireles takes a

walkdowntotheSt.LawrenceMarket,meetswithproducers and checks outtheproducts.“Wetendtouseseasonalproductsandlocalingredientswheneverwe can.Wework closelywith 100kmFoodsInc.,theydistributelocallygrownOntarioproducestraighttoToronto-area

restaurantsandOrganicOceanSeafoodfromB.C.”ChefMeirelessaysreceptionsarestill

popularateventsandhedoesalotofsmallplatesandactionstations,andaddsthatsous-videcookingisacontinuingtrend.Sous-videiscookinginacontrolledwaterbath,underavacuumseal.Heexplains“Therearealotofdifferentreasonsforcookingsous-vide,butIlikeitbecauseitconcentratestheflavourinthefood.Ifyou’recookingshortribs,withalittlestockthatstockstaysinthemeat,it’snotleachingoutinthecookingbroth.Ifyou’recookingalambrackorabeeftenderloinyoucancookittoprecisely130degreesanditwillholdatthattemperature.”ChefMeirelesisexperimentingsous-vide

withfreshfruitaswell.“We’reimpartingfreshherbalflavoursintowatermelon,letting

Oliver & Bonacini EventsWith chef Jamie Meireles at the helm, the world is definitely your oyster – just tell him how you like it. by Sandra eagle

With over fifteen years of international experience in reknowned restaurants, Chef Jamie Meireles is ready for any challenge that an event planner could think of. His career began at the Fairmont Royal York after graduation from George Brown College Chef’s School.

20 | summer 2011

Chef Meireles gathers his inspiration from many different cuisines.

“That’s probably why I love doing events because we’re constantly changing our menus, it keeps us inspired and we get to try new things all the time.”


somemintandbasilmarinateinthefruitfor24hours.Itmakesthewatermelonbrightredandimpartsareallyfreshflavourthatthedinerisn’tquiteexpecting.Wecutitintowhatevershapeweneed,andthenwe’llpairthatupwithanheirloomtomatoandburratasalad.It’sagreatdish.”ChefMeirelesgathershisinspirationfrom

manydifferentcuisines.“I’veworked inEnglandandNewYork,andmybackgroundisPortugese.I lovePortugesecuisine,it’sintenselyflavourful,butIlovethesimplicityofItalianfood,IlovetherichnessofFrenchfood,soIguessyoucouldsayI’malloverthemap.That’sprobablywhyIlovedoingeventsbecausewe’reconstantlychangingourmenus,we’redoingalotofmenu-writingwhichisfun,itkeepsusinspiredandwegettotrynewthingsallthetime.”

f o o d & B e v e r A g e

The glorious Canadian summer is here and the last thing on your mind is decking the halls or shopping for holiday employee or customer gifts. But Vancouver-based gift guru Janet Helm says now is the perfect time to start holiday planning. She says, “What’s inside the gift box is not nearly as important is what it represents - your appreciation. Choosing wisely ensures your sincerity is captured and your recipients feel valued and recognized.” So take a few moments to consider a few tips that could save you a headache in the cool fall months.

Plan ahead Leaving choices to the last minute will not only disappoint recipients but can actually confuse them - especially if the gift does not reflect

your culture and or your brand or doesn’t reflect the recipients’ taste and style. Hurried choices typically mean rush charges from either manufacturers or having to pay for overnight delivery vs. ground – which is a big waste of your budget.

Give meaning More and more companies want their gifts to have meaning, symbolism- a good story! Choose gifts that give back. Our water carafes are practical and encourage drinking tap water vs. bottled water. As well as being stylish on their own on a desktop, a grouping of them at a conference or event make an impact. Gift tags that let recipients know that two per cent of all sales goes to Fraser River Keeper, a not-for-profit organization that keeps our Canadian rivers clean is the detail and story recipients value and could start a meaningful conversation.

getting into the sPirit

i n c e n t i v e s

2.

1.

22 | summer 2011


H a n d w r i t e y o u r holiday card message No email cards please! Make sure the paper is eco-friendly and s t a nd s o u t f r om t h e rest. Our wood stationary is printed full colour and sizes can be custom made. Details include envelopes printed with individual recipients’ address making mailing a breeze for you!

Keep your gift packaging to a minimum Stock up on hole-punched hang tags printed with your logo on the front, with To: From: on the back. Ensure the ribbon is in your corporate colours or even printed with your logo and voila - instant gift packaging- ready to go when you need it in a hurry - to wrap around a bottle of bubbly, locally produced wine, or bouquet of festive flowers. They will never know your gift was last minute! Use gift box sleeves instead of boxes and bows - your gift is seen instantly and keeps your budget on the gift.

Custom made is in When Colliers International’s CEO wanted to recognize the challenges his team in New Zealand faced due to earthquakes, he had us design their own tartan- symbolizing community, unity and family, then produced stylish scarves. The enclosure card quoted Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Further details included a private woven label subtly sewn into the seam. A more stylish touch instead of blatant embroidered logos.

Get in the Spirit of Giving –Early!Try the Giving Project: A 21 day journey for individuals, departments and entire companies. See how the power of appreciation will change your business and your life for the better.

Janet Helm can be reached via twitter, linkedIn and Facebook and online at www.janethelm.com

3.4.

5.6.

The first five readers of Corporate Meetings & Events who finish the Giving Project will receive Janet Helm Thank You Cards and a free consultation on their next gift-giving occasion.Ready to get started? http://janethelm.blogspot.com/2011/04/real-givings-giving-project.html

Value $575

24 | summer 2011

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d e s t i n At i o n P r o f i L e

With a consistent stream of venues, accommodations, restaurants and entertainment options popping up across the city, Toronto continues to impress as a destination for meetings and events. With a new wave of five-star luxury properties, most of which are still in development, the city is upping the ante in terms of upscale hospitality.

Downtown: Toronto

CountryTown &

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The first five-star hotel to open itsdoorswasTheRitz-Carlton,whichfirstwelcomedguests inFebruary2011. Intheheartofthecity’svibrantfinancialdistrict,thisWellingtonSt.hotelhas267stunningguestroomsandsuites.“Thesuites are truly todie for,” saysLoriHeller,presidentofHellerProductionsInc.aToronto-basedeventmanagementcompany.“Five-staraccommodationwassomething this citywasmissing,andhotelslikeTheRitzwillcertainlyhelpputusonthemap.”TheRitz-CarltonhasthelargestluxuryballroominTorontowith7,400sq.ft.ofspace,accommodatingupto600

guests.Thegrandfoyerservesasidealpre-functionspacewithfloor-to-ceilingwindowsoverlookingMetroHallSquareParkandRoyThompsonHall.Othermeetingspaceincludesthe3,000sq.-ft.WellingtonRoomandindividualmeetingroomsincludinganexecutiveboardroom.Todate,TheRitz-Carltonhasaccommodatedgroupsoftwoto450forgalas,corporatemeetingsandincentivetrips.“Forusitallcomesdowntothepeople,”saysDanielNewberry,thehotel’sdirectorofsalesandmarketing.“Whatwefocusonisanticipatoryservice–takingcareofourguestsandcustomersbeforetheyhavetoaskforassistance.”

Expectedtoopeninlate2011,andthesecondhoteltojointheTorontoluxuryscene,istheTrumpInternationalHotel&Tower.AlsosituatedinthefinancialdistrictatBayandAdelaidestreets,this65-storybuildingtowersoverTorontoboasting261luxurioushotelroomsandsuiteswithviewsofthecityandLakeOntario.TheTrumpwillfeaturehigh-speedelevators,aworld-classrestaurantlocatedonthe30thfloor,andTheSpaatTrump®wellnessfacility.Thehotel’s12,000sq.-ft.-businesscenterwillincludetwo f loors of meet ing rooms and a4,000sq.-ft.-PresidentialExpoSuiteon

Country&


The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto


26 | summer 2011

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In business, looking at things from another vantage point can inspire great thinking. So, why not hold your event somewhere with a truly magni� cent view? The CN Tower offers unique spaces and fantastic hospitality services including award-winning food and wine. Book your next corporate event with us and discover how productive you can be in our extraordinary venue.

For more information email [email protected] or call 416.601.4718 cntower.ca

THE KEY TO YOUR SUCCESSFUL EVENTIS SEEING THINGS FROM OUR PERSPECTIVE

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theTrumpExecutiveLevel,forhostingexclusivemeetingsandpresentations.Ifit’saboutiquehotelexperienceyou’reafter,HotelLeGermain

andThompsonHotelsareamongstToronto’s finest,offeringstunningdécor,modernamenitiesandahighlyurbanexperience.Bothhavemeetingspaces;HotelLeGermain’sbeingsomewhatsmallerandmoreintimate.“TheThompsonRooftopLoungeiscertainlytheplacetoseeandbeseenandisavailableforprivatefunctions,”saysHeller.Torontoalsohasawideselectionofstand-alonemeetingandevent

spacestoaccommodateanysizeofgroup.“AbeautifulvenuethatwelovetouseforconferencesthatdonotrequirehotelroomsisSt.Andrew’sClubandConferenceCentre(KingSt.&UniversityAve.),”saysHeller.“Theyhavebeautiful,well-litspaceswithgreatviewsofthecity,andserviceisalwaysprofessionalandwell-organized.”HellerhasalsohostedmanysuccessfuleventsatSteamWhistle

Brewing.Fromcasualtosophisticated,thisdowntownvenuehasthreespacesandcanaccommodategroupsof30to750forgalas,fundraisers,meetings,andcorporateparties.Muchofthebuilding’shistoricarchitectureremainsinplace,makingthisauniquespaceforanyevent.For spectacular views and an intimate experience,Heller

recommends180Panoramaatopthe51stflooroftheManulifeCentreinthetonyYorkvilleneighbourhood.“Thisisafantasticspaceforacorporatedinnerorcocktailreception,”shesays.TherevolvingdiningroomallowsgueststoexperienceviewsofdowntownanduptownTorontoandservesasagreatintroductiontothecity.With state-of-the-ar t venues, world c lass din ing and

entertainment,uniquemulticulturalexperiencesandanonslaughtoffive-starluxuryaccommodationssettotakethecitybystorm,Torontoremainsahigh-class,high-energydestinationforeventsandmeetings.


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Trump International Hotel & Tower Toronto

The hotel’s 12,000 sq.-ft.- business center will include two floors of meeting rooms and a 4,000 sq.-ft.-Presidential Expo Suite on the Trump Executive Level.

Beyond Expectations

Meeting Standards

5 or 500 — we welcome groups of any size

www.navcentre.caCornwall, Ontario | One hour from Ottawa

1-877-832-6416

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28 | summer 2011

Ontario’s Muskoka region provides the perfect combination of a serene country setting coupled with world-class amenities and activities – making it a destination of choice for meeting planners. With 2,500 square miles of stunning forest, pristine lakes and rivers, sandy beaches and luxury hotel properties, Ontario’s ‘cottage country’ offers many of the perks of a tropical destination without the long flights and extensive travel time. It’s no wonder National Geographic named Muskoka the top summer destination of 2011. “As soon as you arrive, you can’t help but feel relaxed – even if you’re working,” says Brooke Soucier of Hidden Champions, a full-service travel incentive, executive retreats and corporate meetings company in Oakville, Ontario. Just a 90 to 120 minute drive north of the city, the Muskoka region is home to clean air, starry night skies, and spectacular wildlife.

And COUNTRY: Muskoka


CountryTown &

The Rosseau, A JW Marriott Resort & Spa in Minett, Ont.

Nearby, and also overlooking LakeRosseau,isWindermereHouse,anotherofMuskoka’supscalehotelspopularamongstplanners.Completelyrenovatedin2008,thepropertyfeaturesabrandnewfull-servicespa,theseventhOntariolocationofSanctuaryInternationalDaySpas.Guestscanalsoexpectliveentertainmentthroughoutthesummerontheresort’sfamousverandaandparticipateinawideselectionoflandsportsandwaterfrontactivities.

With famed Ol iver and Bonacin iRe s t au ra nt s now at t he he lm o ffoodservice,guestsoftheWindermerecanexpectcreativeCanadiancomfortfoodandspectacularfinediningallonsite.Withtonsofnaturallightandwalkoutsfrommeetingspacesontotheveranda,delegatescanenjoynaturalsurroundingswhilegettingdowntobusinessincomfortand style, explains Sue Nickason, amarketingconsultantwithWindermere



Country Oneoftheregion’snewerluxuryhotelsisTheRosseau,aJWMarriottResort&SpathatoverlooksthestunningLakeRosseau.This is the firstCanadian locationoftheMarriott’supscaleresortbrand,JWMarriott,anditofferscorporateguestsafullservicespa(with11treatmentrooms),asuiteofteam-buildingandadventureactivities,aprivatebeachand700-acrenaturereserve,andaccesstoTheRock,aNickFaldo-designedgolfcourse.TheresortopenedinDecember2008,

and features13,800sq. ft.ofmeetingspaceincludingthe6,480sq.-ft.-RosseauBa l l room with seat ing capacit y ofjustover500.With221stunningandspacioushotelrooms,guestsareabletoenjoycountrycharmalongsidemodernamenit ies and pure luxury. “Whilethisisatoptierhotel,theatmosphereismoreunassuming than somethingyou’dfindinthecity,”saysLeahLeslie,directorofsalesandmarketingforTheRosseau.“Hereyou’ll findCEOsandexecutivesenjoyingaglassofwineatthebarintheirbathrobesandflip-flops,havingjustcomefromthepool.”

INTIMACY ON A GRAND SCALE 100,000 SQUARE FEET OF IT

Your colleagues will be in awe when attending events in the Convention Centre

at Caesars Windsor. Two floors, seven intimate conference rooms with modern

presentation technology, a full-service business centre, and on-site audio/visual

facilities. Combine this with a 4-diamond resort, well-appointed guestrooms

and luxurious amenities, the making of a spectacular event comes together

seamlessly. Call 1-877-223-7702 or visit us at caesarswindsor.com.

Know Your Limit, Play Within It! 1-888-230-3505 Ontario Problem Gambling HelpLine. All ages welcome in our Augustus Tower and convention complex. Must be 19 years of age or older to enter the casino and all other outlets. The Caesars brand and related trademarks are owned by Caesars License Company, LLC and its affiliated companies. Used with permission.

Facebook.com/CaesarsWindsor

Caesars WindsorProperty: CM&E MagazineProject: Job#: 53937.1 9:09 AM

Trim: 7” x 4.625” Live: x VO: x Bleed:

Show: 6/15/11 Ship: 6/16/11 Insert:

Final Mats: KerryArt: 1Rev:CM&E Magazine 7” x 4.625”Desc.:

dMax:Vendor: CM&E Magazine

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It’s just like any other event venue. Except the wallpaper is alive.

Book your next corporate event, party or reception with us.

vanaqua.org/cateringandevents

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30 | summer 2011

House.“Meetinggoerslovethecharmofourpropertyandarecontinuouslywowedbythecharacterandpersonalityofourguestroomsallequippedwithmodernamenities,”shesays.Thehotelhasamainlodgewith56guestroomsandanadjacentWindermereCottagewith

fourbedroomsand threebathrooms.Meetingspacecanaccommodatesmallandmediumsizegroups.TheIslandviewroom–theproperty’slargest–is2,000sq.ft.andhasspacefor200receptionguests.ForSoucier,thedecisiontotakeagroup

toWindermereHouseinSeptemberofthis

yearwasmadebasedonthehotel’sfriendlyservice,stunningsceneryandgorgeousguestrooms.She’llbehostingagroupof25delegates fromaMississauga-basedpharmaceuticalcompanyfortheirquarterlymeeting.Sheplanstotakeadvantageofon-siteentertaininganddiningoptions.For groups looking to incorporate

outdoornetworkingeventsandcocktailreceptionsintotheirmeetingoreventschedule,Muskoka offers stunninglakesidevenuesandboatrentaloptions.Souciersuggestsatourofspectacularcelebrity summer homes, all hiddenfromthemainroads,butvisiblefromthewater.WiththelikesofGoldieHawn,KurtRussell,MartinShortandStevenSpielbergsummeringintheseparts,aneveningboatcruiseisagreatwaytoenjoyappetizersandcocktailswhiletakinginthestar-studdedscenery.“OnarecentboattouroftheareawespottedBrettLindros(retiredNHLstarandbrotherofEricLindros)outsidewithhisdogsettingupforabonfire.”Ifit’sacountryescapeyou’relooking

for,theMuskokaLakesregionhasallthepeaceandserenityyou’llneedtounwindandrecharge.

The Windermere House in Muskoka

TIFF Bell lIghTBox IntheheartofToronto,theTIFFBellLightboxisgroundzeroduringtheTorontoInternationalFilmFestivalinSeptember.Duringtherestoftheyear,meremortalscanaspireforthatTinseltowntouchbybookingspaceatToronto’stempletocelluloid.Oliver&BonaciniEventsbooksprivateeventspaceonanumberoflevels

attheLightbox.AspectacularcityviewgreetsguestsintheMalaparteRoomonthe6thfloor.Floortoceilingwindowsfloodsthespacewithlightduringthedayorrevealsthecitylightsatnight.Theluxuriousgauzeandvelvetcurtainscomplementtheslategreyirridescenttiledcolumnsandasilverymontageoffamousmovielegendsontheopposingwall.Hiddenprojectorsandscreensaddtotheroom’sappeal.ThereisadedicatedkitchenfortheMalaparteeventspace.DeborahGee,manager,O&BEventsandPrivateDining,says“Wehavedonealotofluxurybrandproductlaunchesinthisroom,andourbiggestchallengeistheguestcapacity.”Malaparteseats150oraccommodatesupto200forastand-upcocktailreception.Theadjoiningrooftopterrace,modeledaftertheVillaMalaparteinCapriwhereJean-LucGodardshotLe Mépriscanbeusedinconjunctionwiththeroomspacetodoubletheguestcounts,whichworkswellinthesummermonths,nosomuchinthewinter.Theglisteningrooftopaddsdramaandarchitecturalinterestonvariouslevels,andseemstoleadsguestsupintotheTorontocityscape.Inaddition,theLumaRestaurantandsecondflooroutdoorpatioisavailable

forfunctionsonSundaynight,whentherestaurantisclosed.SeptembertoDecemberisthepeakseasonforcorporateeventsattheLightbox.www.tiff.net

ArT gAllery oF AlBerTA ThestunningarchitectureoftheArtGalleryofAlbertacombinesseveralformsofthelocalEdmontongeographyandtransformsthosenaturalelementsthroughthegracefulcombinationofsteel,glassandzinc.Meanttomimicthecurvesof theNorthSaskatchewanRiverand thestaticcitygridofEdmontonproper,thisarchitecturaljewelisamagnificentbackdroptocorporateevents.Fourlevelsofspacecanaccommodateintimategroupsof10,

upto500forgalareceptions.ThelargestspacetoholdaneventintheGalleryistheErnestManningHallandatriumthatcanaccommodate200foraseateddinner.Abeautifulbright1000sq.-ft.-boardroom,seating30,hasanadjoiningterrace.Fourdifferentlevelsoffersavarietyofeventoptions,including

theoutdoorSculptureTerrace.ElisaDefazio,directorofeventsalesandcatering,says“What’sgreataboutthebuildingisitsdiversityandthefunctionalityofthespace.Peoplecanuseasmuchofthegalleryastheyneedtofittheirfunction.”ClientscancustomizetheirF&BmenuwithChefDavid

Omar.DefaziosaysatarecenteventtocelebratetheAndyWarholexhibition,thecheffeaturedmini-bisonbitesswithWarhol-artinspiredpink,yellowandpurplecolouredbuns.Defazioadds,“ChefOmarishappytoconsultwithmeetingplannerstodiscussmenus,andcaneithercreateacustomizedmenuorhelpchooseitemsoffofourF&Bmenus,oroffthemenuoftheZINCrestaurant,locatedonthemainflooroftheGallery.www.youraga.ca

c u Lt u r A Lv e n u e s

The Malaparte Room and rooftop patio at the TIFF Bell Lightbox

The Art Gallery of Alberta showcases fabulous architecture and art for a one-of-a-kind event space.


unique venues froM eAst to West

c u Lt u r A Lv e n u e s

MArITIMe MuseuM ThetangofsaltairandsoundofthegullsminglingwiththestrainsofasinglepipercouldbejustthebeginningofaneveningattheMaritimeMuseumoftheAtlantic.IanMullan, visitor events coordinator at thisdowntown

museum,says“ThespaceisagreatwaytoshowofftheMaritimes-itgivesexposuretothecultureandwhat’simportanttothepeoplewholivehere.”Whatbetterplacetosoakuptheseafaringloreofpirates,shipwrecks,modelboatsandmarinedisastersthanontheHalifaxwaterfront?Mullanaddsthatfacilityrentalincludesthemuseumexhibitions.Permanentexhibits include theHalifaxExplosionof1917,

artifactsrecoveredfromtheTitanic,theAgeofSteamGalleryandtheDaysofSail.TheSmallCraftGallery,locatedonthemainfloor,overlooks

theharborthroughfloor-to-ceilingwindowsandholds110foraseateddinnerorastandingreceptionfor250.Guestssitamongstfull-sizedsailingcraft.Thereisanoptiontoerectastageforsomedowneastmusicanchoredagainstthesailsofacraft–soevocativeoftheregion.Thereisnoexclusivecatererforthemuseum,butaNovaScotianfeastofdelectablelobsterfromRCRCateringwouldbejustthefinishingtouchatthismaritimetreasure.www.museum.gov.ns.ca

CrAIgdArroCh CAsTle ThisimposingVictorianmansion,oncethehomeofaturnofthecenturyindustrialist,isanimpressivereceptionspaceforcorporategroupsofupto200forastand-upreception.JohnHughes,actingexecutivedirectorofCraigdarrochCastlesays“Thisisnotyourtypicalreceptionspace,it’sveryauthentic,withmanypiecesfromtheVictorianera.”Thisimpressivestructure,builtonahilloverlookingVictoria,offersmagnificentviewsoftheJuandeFucaStraitandtheOlympicMountains.ThecastlewasbuiltbyJohnDunsmuir,aScottishimmigrantwhomadehisfortunefromVancouverIslandcoal.Themansionboastsover39period-furnishedroomsandhousesoneofNorthAmerica’slargestcollectionsofstainedglass.Hughessayscorporategroupsliketocometothecastle

duringtheChristmasseason,whenthehouseisdecoratedforholidayfestivities.Springisalsopopular,asgroupscanmingleinoroutsidethemansion.Thecastlerentalisstaffedbydocentsthatcandoindividual

andmini-grouptourstoanswerquestionsaboutthemansion,theareaandevenVictoriaforthatmatter.Octoberthroughmid-Mayisthemansion’sshoulderseason,

andthestaffcanset-upforgroupsin45minuteswhenthesiteclosestothepublicat4:00p.m.Caterersareallowedintothepantryaheadoftimesogroupscanbeaccommodatedasearlyas6:00p.m.Threepreferredcaterersofferingavarietyofstylesandpricepoints.OneprovisoisthattheCastleonlyallowswhitewineorbeertobeservedonthepremisesbecauseredwinestainsthehistoricwood.www.craigdarrochcastle.com

32 | summer 2011

The Small Craft Room set up banquet-style in the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Craigdarroch Castle is a Victorian mansion located close to downtown Victoria, B.C.

Phot

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oper

STAY YOU.TM

STAY YOU.TM

Don’t miss your chance to earn The Big Reward—up

to 100,000 bonus Priority Club points.The more room

nights you book at Holiday Inn® or Holiday Inn® Express

hotels before October 31, 2011 and use for meetings

or groups before December 30, 2011, the more points

you’ll earn.

What could be more rewarding than that?

Visit holidayinn.com/meetingbonusca to get started.

STAY REWARDED

EARN UP TO 100,000 BONUS PRIORITY ClUB® POINTS.

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Meeting Planner and Referring Third Party must be members of Priority Club Meeting Rewards prior to booking. Offer available at participating Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties in Canada, U.S., Mexico and latin America for a qualified meeting. Qualified meeting must be booked by October 31, 2011 and conducted by December 30, 2011. A qualified meeting or group stay requires ten or more paid guest rooms for at least one peak night of the event and may include qualified catering/banqueting events. Subject to availability and blackout dates. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Not valid with group bookings affiliated with city-wide conventions. Planner must request bonus points offer and it must be recorded in the hotel sales contract at time of booking. Priority Club is a registered trademark of Six Continents Hotels, Inc. STAY YOU.™ is a trademark of Six Continents Hotels, Inc. ©2011 InterContinental Hotels Group. All rights reserved. Most hotels are independently owned and/or operated.

Date: July 20, 2011 Operator: Ramzi Almobayyed Email: [email protected]

Tel: 905-303-3107 ext 225 File name: 7040__HI_HIEX_CM&E_V2.pdf

Untitled-7 1 11-08-02 6:30 PM

Earn up to 100,000 Aeroplan Miles + bonus miles for your meeting referral!

Earn up to 100,000 Aeroplan® Miles with Delta Hotels and Resorts. Meetings at Delta just got even more rewarding. Whether you’re booking a meeting or just referring business, here’s your chance to be rewarded.

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Visit deltahotels.com/meetingmiles

corporate meetings & events - summer 2011

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