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Page 1: Vol. 10 No. 6
Page 2: Vol. 10 No. 6
Page 3: Vol. 10 No. 6
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ThePLANNER 5www.theplanner.ca

i n t h i s i s s u e

Publisher Michel Geoffroy, CMM [email protected]

editor Dana Gonciarz [email protected]

Special projectS Amber Jackson [email protected]

GraPhic artist Matthew Riopel [email protected]

sales [email protected]

circulation [email protected]

contributors Jyl Ashton Cunningham CMP, Stacey Hanke, Marilyn Lazar, Patricia Lemus, Michael McAteer, Barry Siskind

The Planner is published ten times a year.Poste-publication No. 40934013

*Canadian Coat of Arms motto “From sea to sea”

2105, de la Montagne, suite 100, Montreal, Québec H3G 1Z8Telephone: (514) 849-6841 poste 315 Fax: (514) 284-2282Your comments are appreciated: [email protected]

A monthly digest to inform and enlighten meeting and event planners

The Planner is disTribuTed To Professional meeTing and evenT Planners across canada

THEPLANNER

* a mari usque ad mare

address

8 The Impact of Colour in your ExhibitionBarry Siskind explains how colour can impact your event.

12 Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts Launches ‘True Waldorf Service’ Program

Learn the three-pronged approach to the Waldorf service.

16 Action Replaces Excuses Imagine what you could do if you put the energy you use

to make excuses into taking action. Stacey Hanke shows us how.

18 The Toronto Venue Guide A comprehensive guide to help you choose the right venue

for all your planning needs in our nations largest city.

P u b l i s h e r ’ s n o t e

If you are like me, you will appreciate this card as much as I do. It

expresses my feelings exactly.

text messages, emails, Facebook

call me old Fashioned, but what’s wrong with the Phone?

“But I sent them an email!” “Okay and...”

“They haven’t gotten back to me.”

How many times have you heard that? As if sending an email to

someone marked the end of the process. The end of the process

is when an answer is received. Whatever happened to the phone?

They keep coming out with fancier and fancier phones but they’re

no longer used as such. It’s a bit like watches, they have gotten

bigger and more expensive but nobody looks at them to tell the

time anymore; they all look at their phones, while watches have

now become more of a fashion accessory. At any rate, let’s get

back to the phone. I find using the phone quick and simple for

many things, what can take hours to type and days to receive

an answer for, takes minutes over the phone, so why have we

stopped using it? As some wise person somewhere probably said

at sometime or other, ‘’Change for the sake of change, with no

increase in productivity or in time management, doesn’t make

sense’’, so let’s get back to talking to one another and get things

done faster and in a more human fashion..

Michel Geoffroy, CMM

Page 6: Vol. 10 No. 6

6 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

It takes time to relax

“People who go on holiday for one week only get three day’s rest because it takes four days to switch off from the pressures of works, a study suggests,” says The Daily Telegraph. “Researchers found that halfway through the fourth day of a holiday is when workers feel everyday stress. And with most holidays being just over a week, that only leaves a few days of real relaxation.” The British survey of 2,021 adults was carried out for LV - Liverpool Victoria travel insurance.

Speaking of pay... it also pays to be educated during a downturnNew evidence shows education is one of the better buffers in a recession.

The big tumble in Canadian employment during the 2008- 2009 economic downturn reflected mostly net losses among people who did not have a high-school diploma. In those two years, the number of workers with-out a high school diploma fell 10.2 percent, Statistics Canada says.

Among those with high school or some non-completed postsecondary education as their highest level of education, net employment fell 3.6 per cent.

By contrast, people with post-secondary edu-cation saw stable employment. This group refers to those with trade certificates, college and CEGEP diplomas, university certificates

below a bachelor’s degree and a bachelor’s degree or higher.

It is also more difficult to bounce back with-out an education. By last year, employment levels for those with less than high school were 14.5 per cent lower than in 2008.

Among people with a trade, college, or university certificate, employment levels rose 5.1 per cent between 2008 and 2011.

By last year, employment had risen fastest – in percentage terms – for people who had a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Meanwhile, a separate Statscan study last week on wages showed those with a higher education tend to see higher earnings.

As for wages as a whole, the analysis found average real wage rates of Canadian workers were little changed in the 1980’s and 1990’s before rising at a faster pace in the 2000’s. Overall, average hourly wages of full-time workers rose 14 per cent from 1981 to 2011.

f o r y o u r i n f o

Honesty is healthyFeeling tense or melancholy?

Got a sore throat or headache?

How many times have you stretched the truth this week? A new study finds lying is linked to men-tal health and physical ailments. Researchers at University of Notre Dame found most Americans lie about eleven times a week. They studied a group of 110 people aged 18 to 71 and asked half the group to reduce their lying over a 10-week period. Those participants who stopped lying – exaggerating their accomplish-ments, making false excuses for being late and evading uncomfortable questions – had a sig-nificant improvement in their health. Their social interactions also went more smoothly, the study found.

It pays to exercise

If you feel underpaid, you may want to hit the gym,” says The Huffington Post. “You’ll feel better immediately, and over the long term you’ll get better pay. That is the impli-cation of a new study in the June issue of the Journal Labor Research, according to SmartMoney. The Study found that work-ers who exercise on a regular basis earn 9 per cent more than inactive workers. Some workers may really need the exercise. Forty-four per cent of workers have gained weight in their current job, according to a recent study by CareerBuilder.

Page 7: Vol. 10 No. 6

ThePLANNER 7www.theplanner.ca

h o t e l n e w s

Winning Wine ProgramSheraton Hotels & Resorts in cooperation with Wine Spectator magazine recently announced the global launch of Sheraton Social Hour, a first-of-its-kind, brand-wide premium wine program. The new program offers guests a specially selected menu of premium wines and weekly tasting events at more than 240 par-ticipating Sheraton hotels around the world. In North America, the program will feature 90+ wines rated by Wine Spectator served in Riedel stemware to ensure that each variety is presented in the perfect stemware that artfully enhances the wine’s flavour and aroma.

“We wanted to truly elevate the wine tast-ing experience for our guests and are proud to introduce Sheraton Social Hour across our global portfolio,” said Hoyt Harper, Global Brand Leader for Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. “We worked with some of the most renowned names in the wine industry for more than a year so that our guests can eas-ily savour some of the highest rated wines in the world dur-ing their stay.”

Sheraton Hotels piloted the new program in 19 global proper-ties with tremen-dous success. Ninety-five per-cent of guests said they are “very likely” or “likely” to return to another Social Hour and would recommend the program to others.

London’s Hotel Market is Booming20 new top hotels have opened their doors in 2011. 37 new hotel projects with more than 8,800 rooms were in the pipeline and a further 10 new hotels were expected to open up by the 2012 Summer Olympics.

According to TOPHOTELPROJECTS, the leading information service for international hotel construction and development projects, 20 new four and five star rated hotels with more than 4,200 rooms have opened their doors during the past year. Over the next three years another 37 new hotels with more than 8,800 rooms will be inaugurated. Among them the 195-room Shangri-La in the new skyscraper “The Shard” is expected to open up in spring 2013. By the start of the Summer Olympics at the end of July a total of 22 first class and luxury hotels have opened their doors in London, including the new ME London by Mélia International – 157 rooms – sited in a prime location, previously a bank office building. In November the InterContinental Westminster – 256 rooms – near

New Scotland Yard at St. James Park, will officially open. And close to the legendary Wembley Stadium, the new Hilton Hotel – 306 rooms - was ready to host its first guests this sum-mer.

Following the recent opening of the beautiful Grosvenor House Apartments (133 apartments) next to Hyde Park, Jumeirah Hotels will add another 261-room luxury property to its hotel portfolio before the end of the year. The hotel in a glass tower will be located on the south side of the River Thames, directly opposite the City of London - a very conven-ient location for business travellers. With the Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel already operating, the Dubai-based and globally expanding hotel chain already offers a London boutique hotel in prime location in the sophis-ticated Belgravia district. This leads us to believe that there will be bar-gains in London during 2013 as the Olympics have come and gone, and hotels have to start competing for business.

Business travel to Canada up: StatscanStatistics Canada says overnight business travel to and from Canada increased at a faster pace than pleasure travel in the first quarter this year. Canadian travellers made 673,000 overnight business trips to the United States in the first quarter, up 12.3% from the first quarter of 2011. They spent $673 million or an average of $207 per night. In the opposite direction, American travellers made 425, 000 overnight busi-ness trips to Canada, a 7.1% increase. Overall, they spent $254 per night.

Meanwhile, Canadian residents took nearly 3.3million pleasure trips to the United States, up 9.9%. The federal agency said they spent less per night than business trav-ellers, but did not give a specific figure. By comparison, Americans took only 671,000 overnight pleasure trips to Canada, up 5.8% from the first quarter of 2011. Canadian business travel overseas increased 7.5% to 157,000 overnight trips from 146,000 in the first quarter of 2011. Business travellers spent a total $268 million abroad.

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8 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

t r a d e s h o w s

It used to be so simple. The discussion of

color came down to cool or warm colors.

Cool colors being blues, greens and whites,

the warm colors red, orange and yellow.

But, there is so much more to the discussion.

Which Color Should DominateColor ties your display to your product. When

it is well done, color creates a visual image that

sparks the imagination of the visitor. Your ultim-

ate goal is to focus attention on your product

with the display as background. While this is

the general rule, some products in themselves

are rather uninspiring visually and need the help

that the display can offer. If your products fall

into this category—for example, products such

as small automotive parts, some hardware items,

software, certain packaged goods, etc.—then

you must create a display that compensates

visually for what your product lacks. For these

examples, a strong color for the display will draw

attention to the product, yet not overshadow it.

You can select contrasting colors on the color

wheel.

If, however, your product easily lends itself to

color—such as giftware, linens, clothing, etc.—

then highlight the color in the product and let

the display blend into the background with

subtle tones.

Another scenario is where the product color and

display color work in harmony. For example, an

upscale line of clothing might be well displayed

in an exhibit that has colors that reflect the qual-

ity of the product.

Corporate (Brand) ColorsPart of your brand is color. But in an increasingly

competitive world there are few brands (and

their colors) that are powerful enough to achieve

universal recognition.

If you have strong, identifiable corporate colors,

use them in your display; think about Starbucks’

green, Coca-Cola’s red and DeWalt Power

Tools’ yellow. Every brand, large and small, is

attempting to build a level of awareness. These

recognized colors become a crucial part of your

display. Consumers get familiar with the logo

and color. If they attend a show and don’t see

corporate images, they might simply walk-by the

display without recognizing the exhibitor.

Color and CultureVarious cultures have their unique interpretation

of colors. For example, in Japan the color yellow

represents grace; in the United States it repre-

sents caution and in China the imperial color

is yellow. In France red represents aristocracy,

while in Britain it is purple. White is the pre-

dominant colour in North American bridal shows

yet in Japan it’s the colour of mourning. In China

red symbolizes good luck and in South Africa

red is the color of mourning. If you are creating

a display for a particular culture, it’s important to

pay attention to its color sensitivities. However,

if you are creating a display for a global, multi-

cultural audience, then consider using an array

of colors found in nature.

If you conduct a Google search for “colour and

culture,” you will find information that focuses

on cultural interpretation of colour.

When you are developing your display it is

well-worth having a discussion with your dis-

play builder about color. The discussion should

include, in addition to a description of your

product and brand, a detailed list of the coun-

tries where you plan to exhibit.

But what if your trade show plans are limited to a

domestic market; does the discussion of culture

become irrelevant? The simple answer is that it

is highly unlikely that a domestic marketplace

is one homogeneous mass of people; popula-

tions are a mixture of cultures and ethnic back-

grounds. If you have identified your customer

profile properly, it will give you strong clues that

need to be incorporated into your exhibition

plans.

Color can make or break an exhibit, so plan

carefully.

Barry Siskind is North America’s foremost trade and consumer show expert. Visit his Web site: www.siskindtraining.com or e-mail him at: [email protected]

The success or failure of your exhibition plans can sometimes be linked to something as simple as color. Color appears everywhere from your web-site homepage to your brochure, but at a show the place colour makes its greatest impact is in your display. Yet, without some forethought, a small miscalculation in choosing the right colour can spell disaster.

The Impact of Colour in your Exhibition By Barry Siskind

Page 9: Vol. 10 No. 6

ThePLANNER 9www.theplanner.ca

One of Montreal’s top chefs, Derek

Dammann, will be opening a new

restaurant in the Plateau Mont-

Royal in mid-September. To be

called Maison Publique, an OLF politically cor-

rect play on the English term “public house”

(informally known as a pub), Dammann’s estab-

lishment will no doubt earn accolades for its

Brit-centric gastropub menu. And yet the lion’s

share of buzz will probably come from the

name of Dammann’s partner in the endeavour:

Jamie Oliver.

“We’re doing an old school British-style tav-

ern.” The space will feature an open kitchen,

a 12 seat bar, a large beer fridge and a private

dining room in the back. A street side terrace is

planned for the 2013 summer season.

“There won’t be fish and chips,” he said. And

as for the service style, “it will be like a Chinese

restaurant in the sense that dishes will come as

soon as they’re ready. Naturally, the focus will

be on Canadian ingredients.

Jamie Oliver to partner in new Montreal Restaurant

f o r y o u r i n f o

Hacking is unavoidable: strategize recovery rather than preventionThey call it a cyberstorm

Though 2011 was a banner year for computer crime, with the high profile attacks on corporations, government and citizens alike, Canadian security experts predict the worst is yet to come. And as with a natural disaster, being prepared

for the worst is less about prevention, they say, than having a plan in place to minimize damage after the strike – which they believe is inevitable.“Everyone is going to get hacked,” says Robert Beggs, CEO of Digital Defence Burlington, Ont. “You put a computer on the inter-net and within 25 minutes someone will compromise it unless there’s a firewall or some kind of anti-virus.” These kinds of attacks are

common, and typically automated. Beggs notes that even if the com-promised computer has little of value on it, hackers can ultimately weaponize it against other computers without the user’s knowledge.The bigger, and certainly costlier, concern is the recent rise in tar-geted attacks; hackers training their sights on a particular business for a specific reason. Beggs reports that hospital medical records are being stealth-ily accessed by pharmaceutical and medical supply companies for direct marketing purposes or by a rival company for the purpose of underbidding on lucrative contracts.“Up to 40 per cent of most businesses have probably been com-promised and don’t even know it,” says Beggs.Part of the problem is that these things are so hard to trace. Indeed, fully a year after the robocalls scandal – which saw primarily non-Conservative voters redirected from their polling stations - Elections Canada has yet to finger the perpetrator who used an untraceable e-mail account and proxy server to shield his IP address.

Land of the faxThe fax machine is still thriving in Japan’s businesses, bureaucracies and home offices. Yes, the clunky device has fallen out of favour in much of the world, but it is humming in Japan. Japanese still fax party invita-tions, bank documents and shopping orders. Business people call the fax a required com-munications tool, used for vital messages, often in place of e-mail. With their traditional reverence for paper and handwriting, the Japanese still see use for the analogue world.

Computer use lags behind that in other developed countries. Business meetings revolve around printed documents, distrib-uted in binders of breathtaking heft. And at government ministries, fax machines spin and whir, the centrepieces of a busy bureaucracy. As of March, according to the cabinet office, fax machines could be found in 59 per cent of Japanese homes.

So planners, if dealing with Japan – fax it. The beauty of the fax is that the number rarely changes, as opposed to e-mail addresses that change each time an employee leaves.

Page 10: Vol. 10 No. 6

10 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

d e s t i n at i o n

richmond bc in the news - why all work and no Play

Sure, there is plenty of convenience

to meeting here. As mentioned, the

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

is located in Richmond, as are the

Canada Line rapid transit system, taxis and

direct complimentary 24 hour shuttle ser-

vice to the 27 brand hotels. As a second-tier

destination, it is also more affordable. And

being situated on the West Coast, in a region

surrounded by a lush delta, open waterways

and ocean, it offers a plethora of engaging

experiences.

And if that wasn’t enough, meeting planners who

book a meeting in Richmond before December

31, 2012 will receive up to $2,012 in credit

towards a group master folio. Visit tourism-

richmond.com/meetings-conventions/book-

2012-terms-and-conditions for more details or

call 1-800-297-5673 to speak to one of Tourism

Richmond representatives.

By the way, Richmond residents are expected

to live four years longer than the average, at

83.4 years. Richmond is proudly placed on

fDi Magazines Top 10 American Cities of the

Future list for its strategic location, strong

business climate, business-friendly policies,

and vibrant economic structure. (fDi – foreign

direct investment – is a division of Financial

Times. Ltd.)

Here are a few reasons to stay an extra night

A trip to one of Richmond’s local wineries for a sip of summerSanduz Estate Wines specializes in many unique

fruit wines (Blueberry, Cranberry and Gooseberry

to name a few) as well as the more common

grape wines, and features a patented unique

puffed blueberry snack. Lulu Island winery is

known for its VQA (Vintners Quality Alliance) ice

wines, its aromatic raspberry and blueberry wine,

crafted from local berries, and for a unique East

meets West approach, utilizing Chinese wine

making techniques to create its blends. Isabella

Winery has a wide range of wines from VQA reds

and whites to ice wine, dessert wine and fruit

wines. Sip, savour and slow down.

Market MadnessWith more than 1 million visitors annually, the

Summer Night Market (recently declared by

Travel and Leisure Magazine to b e one of the

top five night markets in the world) has become

the most popular night market in North America

and the largest multicultural event in Canada.

And, it turns out that one of the acclaimed Asian

night markets just simply wasn’t enough to

quench Richmond’s desire for tasty Asian food

stalls, quirky trinkets and live entertainment; the

famous Summer Night Market on Vulcan Way

was joined this year by the Richmond Night

Market on Duck Island across from the River Rock

Casino Resort. Each attracting nightly crowds

of tens of thousands, the two seasonal extrava-

ganzas have proven that people can never

get enough of a good thing. The two markets

open in May and operate weekend and holiday

evenings through to September (Summer Night

Market) and October (Richmond Night Market).

A maritime indulgenceTo experience west coast living at its finest, a

trip to Stevenson is in order. Delegates can rent

a bicycle to pedal along the seaside dyke trails

and through the historic fishing village, making a

stop at Fisherman’s Wharf to see the catch of the

day and sample some of the West Coast’s best

fish ‘n’ chips. For a lesson in BC’s history, take a

tour of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, one of the

few remaining 19th century salmon canneries on

BC’s coast. Or, why not book a whale watching

adventure – see killer whales, Dall’s porpoises,

and Steller and California sea lion colonies as

well as bald eagles and other migratory birds.

Don’t have your sea legs? Stroll the village’s

upscale boutiques, visit a spa or sip some wine

at one of the boardwalk hot spots and catch one

of the West Coast sunsets.

Region’s Newest Climbing Centre Opens at Richmond Olympic OvalThe Richmond Olympic Oval officially opened

its new 6,400-square-foot climbing wall, featur-

ing 31 different routes for all skill levels and a

wheelchair accessible rappel deck. A full range

of instructional group and team building pro-

grams are available.

Vancouver’s International Airport (YVR), located in Richmond, just can’t seem to stop ranking in the awards. Most recently, YVR was ranked number one in the top 10 airports in North America according to Skytrax, which polls fliers from over 160 countries – the world’s largest annual airport satisfaction survey.

The Summer Night Market, Richmond, BC

Page 11: Vol. 10 No. 6

ThePLANNER 11www.theplanner.ca

P l a n n i n g

Forty per cent of the 767 companies sur-veyed planned to increase incentive pro-grams and only 10 per cent thought to

decrease them in the coming year.During the recession there was a focus on the bottom line; companies were obsessed with making profits and paid less attention to employees. “Now that we’re recovering, the focus has shifted to retaining and motivating talented employees to grow more quickly in a slow recovery,” said David Earson, chief execu-tive officer of Berkeley Payment Systems, which did the study. The survey shows a steady year-over-year increase in the number of organizations using incentives for employee programs. There was a

25 per cent increase in 2010 and a 21 per cent increase from 2011 in the number of companies using incentives for employee programs.The program found that only 6 per cent of employers have found that a single type of incentive motivates all generations. “While older recipients prefer a more experimental incentive like a vacation trip, employers said employees in their 20s and 30s prefer cash incentives”, Mr. Earson said.Designing compensation and incentive pro-grams that appeal to individuals across all age groups can be difficult. Companies in the survey ranked retail gift cards as their most cost effective choice, and said recipients most valued pre-paid credit cards.

Try to see the big picture firstThe best strategic thinkers

have a knack for considering

the potential impact of their

actions far beyond their own

team or unit, says Harvard

Business Review adapted

from The Harvard Manage-

Mentor Online Module:

Strategic Thinking.

“Successful strategic thinkers always have perspective. They consider the potential impact of their actions on those beyond their team or unit.”

Next time you need to make a big decision, here are three ways to make sure your think-ing isn’t too narrow:

1. Explore the outcomes. With every idea, ask yourself: “If we implement this idea, how will other units and stakeholders be affected? What might the long term rami-fications be?”

2. Expand your range of alternatives. Gather ideas and concerns from everyone who has an interest in the decision or who will be affected by the outcome.

3. Consider the customer. Look at the decision through your customers’ eyes. What will they think and which alternative will they prefer? If you’re not sure, consider asking them.”

f o r y o u r i n f o

Canadian companies are opening their wallets to give

employees incentives to work harder, a new study found.

incenTive survey

If the hotel you’re staying at doesn’t offer free Wi-Fi...Tim Hortons is adding free Wi-Fi. Double-double addicts will soon have another reason to stop at one of the thou-sands of Tim Hortons outlets across the country. The chain announced recently that it is working to roll out free wireless Internet in more than 2,000 locations. It expects 90

per cent of its so-called “traditional” out-lets across Canada will offer free Wi-Fi by September. The plan does not include its non-traditional outlets, such as kiosks, gas stations and hospital locations. The service is being provided through a partnership with Bell.

Page 12: Vol. 10 No. 6

12 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

P l a n n i n g

Under this service initiative, a personal

concierge will be assigned to each qual-

ified guest and will act as their primary

contact before, during and after a stay, to guar-

antee every request is met. The personal con-

cierge staff of the True Waldorf Service will greet

guests upon their arrival and assist them with

personal culinary preferences, arrange transpor-

tation and special occasion details or take care

of any other singular needs.

“In order to create a truly innovative and indus-

try-leading service delivery platform, we took

great care to identify and train the right employ-

ees within the Waldorf Astoria family to develop

our network of personal concierges,” said John

Vanderslice, global head of luxury and life-

style brands, Hilton Worldwide. “We’ve invested

more than 150,000 hours of training to make

sure this service is worthy of our namesake.”

Legendary Service

To deliver a truly bespoke experience, True

Waldorf Service takes a three-pronged approach:

• True Waldorf Service Welcome – Before they

even arrive, guests receive a personalized

email connecting them to their personal con-

cierge and offering the opportunity to pre-

arrange services and special requests attuned

to their history and personal preferences in

relation to the destination. The personal con-

cierge then welcomes the guest upon arrival.

• True Waldorf Service Experience – Once

onsite, the personal concierge ensures guests

receive a true VIP experience, starting with

being escorted directly to accommodations

and bypassing the typical check-in process.

While the personal concierge serves as the

guest’s primary point contact, he or she is also

constantly communicating and coordinating

with the full staff to deliver seamless, person-

alized service. Outside of interactions with

the personal concierge, guests have 24-hour

access to designated representatives with

local expertise and an informed understand-

ing of their needs.

• True Waldorf Service Invitation to Return – An

industry first, the Invitation to Return enhanc-

es the guest’s stay and takes the hassle out

of departure travel by offering perks such as

packing services, boxed lunches, home lug-

gage delivery, transportation arrangements

and expedited checkout, all arranged through

the personal concierge. Guests will receive

a small departure gift reflective of the local

property or culture and a follow-up thank-you

note after the trip concludes.

“I’ve spent my career working in hospitality and

nothing compares to the experience we will

deliver through the True Waldorf Service initia-

tive,” said Alex Hershman, Personal Concierge

at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago.

The True Waldorf Service initiative was deployed

across the more than 20 Waldorf Astoria Hotels

& Resorts properties starting in July 2012. The

service will be offered to qualified business and

leisure travellers.

Speaking of which, the Montreal Waldorf Astoria

project is still very much in the works, we are

told.

The True Waldorf Service

concept is an extension of the

legendary personal service

principles that were first born

at the legendary Waldorf

Astoria property in New York, as

well as incorporating staff and

guest feedback from the past

several years.

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts Launches ‘True Waldorf Service’ Program

Page 13: Vol. 10 No. 6

ThePLANNER 13www.theplanner.ca

Have them play games. Canadian airline WestJet uses online gaming tools – virtual badges and currency – to spur its employees to generate ideas. They can make sugges-tions at online forums organized by start up Spigit.com and earn points that can buy them iPods, lunches, and laptop bags. One airline employee questioned why pilots get the same free bottles of water that passengers get. That post sparked an avalanche of com-ments that led to a change: Crew members now fill up their own water jugs, saving the airline $500,000 a year.

Games are serious business : West JetLooking to boost productivity at work?

t r a v e l n e w s

Ottawa airport to record travellers’ conversationsSections of the Ottawa airport are now wired with microphones that can eavesdrop on travelers’ conversations. The Canada Border Services Agency (CDSA) is introducing audio-monitoring equipment alongside $500,000 of work to upgrade old video cameras used to monitor its new “customs controlled areas,” including the primary inspection area for arriv-ing international passengers. “Even though audio technology is installed, no audio is recorded at this time. It will become functional at a later date, but whenever that occurs, the technology will record conversations.” Once the equipment is activated, signs will be post-ed referring passer-by to a “privacy notice” that will be posted on the CBSA website, and to a helpline explaining how the recordings will be used, stored, disclosed and retained.

People first… Air Canada must ban felines on flights

if customers have allergies, CTA rules

Cat lovers won’t be able to carry their pets on certain Air Canada Jazz flights to accom-modate customers with severe cat allergies, the government agency overseeing traveller complaints rule recently.

The final decision of the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) requires the company to ban cats on its Dash 8-100/300 aircraft when a customer with a cat allergy dis-ability gives 48 hour notice before travelling.

The agency also confirmed Thursday that on other aircraft operated by Air Canada Jazz, Air Canada and West Jet, it is not necessary to accommodate passengers with a cat allergy disability. That’s because the larger aircraft are equipped with air circulation and ventilation systems using high-efficiency particulate air filters or provide 100 per cent unrecirculated fresh air.

In these aircraft, the airlines have agreed to provide a cat-free buffer zone of five rows when at least 48 hours advance notification is provided by a person with a cat allergy dis-ability.

Fit in like a local while travelling…

Peter Greenberg wants you to travel like a local, not a tourist, and he’s written a new series of guidebooks to help.

The “Like a Local” is debuting with books on New Orleans, the Caribbean, Miami and the Keys, Buenos Aires and Cuba. E-book versions are out in the series and New York, London, Peru, Washington and the “Great Cities of Europe” are due in April, 2013.

What makes the “Like a Local” books dif-ferent from traditional guidebooks, says Mr.Greenberg, who is travel editor for CBS News, is that they rely on recommenda-tions from people who live in those cities.

Among his favourite spots, all found by

talking to locals, are authentic chicken jerk places in Jamaica like Scotchie’s in Montego Bay; tango clubs and venues in Buenos Aires called milongas that often start with a lesson and public dance; and Captain Charlie’s Reef Grill in Juno Beach, Fla., a seafood place in a strip mall 130 kilometres from Miami “but totally worth the drive,” said Mr. Greenberg.

In addition to lodging, food, nightlife, shopping and other activities, the book offers basics like trip-planning advice, a calendar of events and background on the destinations’ history, art and architecture.

The “Like a Local” series is published by Michelin.

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14 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

h e a lt h w i s e

Drink up to think up The brain weighs about 1.3 kg (3lb), the equiva-

lent of a medium-sized chicken! Three-quarters

of this is water, so letting yourself become dehy-

drated really will sap your brainpower.

Eat a brainy breakfastThe best food to boost your brainpower at

breakfast is high-fibre, carbohydrate-rich food

that releases energy slowly, such as wholegrain

breads and cereals, porridge or fresh fruit, plus

some protein from milk, bacon eggs or peanut

butter.

Bananas on the brainThe glucose released into the bloodstream from

carbohydrates is the brain’s favourite food, and

the slower and steadier it’s released, the better.

Bananas, apples, porridge and stone-ground

bread are all good snacks.

Eat more chocolateNo, seriously! Studies have shown that dark

chocolate has a protective effect on the brain.

Combine this with trying new activities or hob-

bies – for example: bake your own chocolate

recipes for extra mental stimulation.

Breakfast like a kingPeople who have a proper meal at breakfast

tend to have better reaction times, problem-

solving abilities and a more acute memory than

people who skip, skimp on or rush through their

first meal of the day. So make time to breakfast

royally.

Make mine an espressoCaffeine may improve memory by making exist-

ing brain cells swell and new ones grow, but too

much van cause attention problems, so stick to

espresso, which has less caffeine per serving

than other coffees.

A Few Food Facts f o r y o u r i n f o

Enhance Efficiency With LemonThe scent of lemons and, to a less-er extent, other citrus fruits such as limes, grapefruits and oranges could help cost efficiency in the workplace by making workers more alert and increasing their ability to concentrate.

How Lack Of Sleep Can Cause Weight GainPlenty of research has already shown that lack of sleep can cause weight gain. Now a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found a new explanation for this via MRI scans. When subjects slept only four hours a night for six nights and were then shown images of food, their brain activity (especially in areas that respond to pleasurable activities) increased much more than when they slept nine hours. That would increase the likelihood of overeating, the researchers said.

Coffee For Better Health?A study of 42,000 healthy Germans has confirmed that coffee does not increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes. What’s more, it found that people who consumed at least three cups a day of regular or decaffeinated coffee were about 25 per cent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes over the nine-year period than those who drank little or no coffee. Other stud-ies have found comparable protection against diabetes, as well as Parkinson’s disease and gallstones.

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ThePLANNER 15www.theplanner.ca

Fit 50-year-olds are less likely to get chronic diseases as they age, according to a U.S. study that sheds new light on

the link between exercise and healthy aging.“It has been known for decades that if you are more fit, you live longer,” Dr. Jarett Berry at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, said. “But a higher quality of life means that you age better.”“We see truly reduced chronic disease, rather than just delaying the inevitable,” said Berry, who led the study. He and his colleagues studied more than 18,600 healthy men and women.The findings accounted for smoking, alcohol

use, obesity, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Berry said even if genetics are at work, it doesn’t mean exercise can’t make a difference. He said national guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise every week.The new study would seem to argue for more vigorous activities such as jogging, cycling or playing basketball.“We know from prior literature that higher-intensity exercise tends to translate into more fitness,” Berry said. “Walking is clearly better than doing nothing, but if you can make the choice between walking and jogging, then jogging is probably better for you.”

Fitness fights chronic ills

f o r y o u r i n f o

Gender Differences in Processing AlcoholThe University of California at Berkeley Wellness Letter says in its August 2012 issue that the effects of alcohol are different on women than on men. Moderate alcohol intake is defined as no more than two drinks a day for a man, and one for a woman.

Why the difference? Women end up with a higher blood level of alcohol and thus become more impaired than men from the same amount of alcohol. For one thing,

they tend to be smaller and have proportionately less body water

and more fat than men (alcohol is diluted in body water and not absorbed in fat). And the stomach enzyme that breaks down alcohol before it reaches the bloodstream is less active in women. This allows more alcohol to enter the blood.Thus, women are more likely to develop damage to the liver, heart muscle, and brain at lower levels of alcohol intake. Alcohol also increases the risk of breast cancer, and higher intakes can weaken bones.Though women are less likely than men to drive after drinking, they have a higher risk of having a fatal crash at a given blood alcohol concentration. Studies suggest that alcohol has a greater effect on driving skills in women.Keep in mind: older women face a double alcohol whammy, since older bodies don’t process alcohol well. As a result, a given amount of alcohol leads to higher blood alcohol concentrations and more adverse effects. In addition, alcohol doesn’t mix well with many drugs older people take. So for older women, “moderation” is less than a drink a day. Still, even half a drink a day can provide heart benefits, some research suggests.

The optimal commute time

“How far should you live from work?” asks Persquaremile.com. “Thirty minutes at most,” according to the wisdom of the crowds. That comes from reams of research and data that suggest commute times tend to cluster around this point. People tend to be good at weighing their options, economists think. If you live farther from work, you can usu-ally afford a bigger house or apartment. But there’s a point where that journey becomes too onerous, and you are willing to sacrifice some of those desires to live closer to your job. That point on average seems to be between 20 and 30 minutes.

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16 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

c o m m u n i c at i o n s

By Stacey Hanke

I have the opportunity throughout the year to observe thousands of individuals deliver presentations, make sales calls, facilitate meetings and participate in virtual and

face-to-face conversations. Most individuals know what they don’t like about how others communicate, yet they make the same mistakes.

They will quickly comment:

• “I can’t stand it when the person I’m talking to speaks with non-words.”

• “It drives me crazy when the presenter talks to their visual aids or their notes.”

• “I check emails in my meetings when the facilitator doesn’t use eye contact.”

• “When I create my PowerPoint or Keynote decks I know my material so I don’t talk to the screen.”

• “The speaker gives me permission to tune

out when they ramble and take too long to get to the point.”

If you have ever focused on improving your communication, you understand how much work and discipline it takes to communicate with impact and influence; it’s more difficult than most people realize. When I hear the following excuses, I know it’s a way for these individuals to ignore the hard-to-hear truth about why they don’t have the impact or influence they wish they had.

• “If I had time to prepare, I wouldn’t use non-words.” What? When you take a close look at your day-to-day interactions, you rarely have time to prepare. Non-words don’t sud-denly fall from the sky when you don’t have your message written down word for word. Whether you’re prepared or not, you use non-words to buy yourself time to think on your feet. Keep in mind that non-words are

not limited to “uh” and “um.” Non-words include: and, so, but, however, actually, well, now, basically, like, you know, OK, right …

We even use non-word phrases:

• “What I meant to say …”

• “To be honest with you …”

• “I am going to ask you a question …”

• “I may be way off base here, but …”

• “Good question …”

“When I’m comfortable with my topic I’m more effective.” You’re fooling yourself. Just because you feel comfortable doesn’t guarantee your lis-teners perceive you as comfortable. Perception is reality and until you videotape yourself in action to see and hear what your listeners see and hear, you’re missing opportunities to take your communication from good to influential.

“When I know my topic I’m more confident, engaging and will interact with my listeners more often.” Translation: when you don’t know your topic, you’re boring and your listeners are there just to fill up space. Knowing your topic is one step to communicating with influence. In just one day, we’re communicating a variety of topics. You can’t possibly be knowledgeable on every topic.

If you want to communicate with impact and influence, you need to be confident, be engaging and interact with your listeners all the time. Individuals who’ve been able to take their communication from good to influential don’t have options during the day to decide when they want to communicate with confidence and when they want to be boring.

“I communicate with individuals who just are not interested in my topic.” Wake-up call! You’re not interesting. As difficult as this may be to hear, your need to hear the truth to get over this hurdle.

As I was working with a group of sales profes-sionals, one individual asked, “What do I do?

Action Replaces Excuses What’s Your Excuse for Not Having More Impact and Influence?

Imagine what you could do if you put the energy you use to make excuses into taking

action. You would be so busy taking action you wouldn’t have time or energy to make

up excuses. Perhaps we make excuses rather than taking action because it’s easier.

Do we replace action with excuses because we are covering up our vulnerability or

lack of confidence? Or are we simply not aware of the excuses we make?

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ThePLANNER 17www.theplanner.ca

f o r y o u r i n f o

Demand: Bucking ‘all economic trends’A new forecast by PKF Hospitality Research

provides signs that U.S. travel continues to

rebound despite tepid economic indicators.

The study predicts that on an average night during 2012, nearly 3 million of the USA’s 4.8 million hotel rooms will be occupied. That’s almost 6% greater than the levels of lodging demand accommodated in 2007, the prior peak in the year before the great industry recession.

A dozen of the Top 50 markets that PKF tracks, how-ever, still are renting fewer rooms than they did in 2007. Of those markets, PKF says the worst-off are: Tucson; West Palm Beach, and Atlanta.

Generally speaking, however, the positive news about growing demand bucks “all apparent economic trends,” says R. Mark Woodworth, president of PKF-HR, in a press release.

During past recovery periods, the hotel industry’s upturn has lagged behind those of others, he said. Also during these times, researchers could rely on changes in employment, income, and gross domestic product to project the direction of lodging demand - but this recovery hasn’t been taking its cues from history.

Whether this will lead to higher rates still remains to be seen.

Woodworth says that increased hotel profits this year are generally being driven by increases in demand  rather than increases in  rate. Historically, demand didn’t increase enough to prompt significant changes in revenue per available room.

c o m m u n i c at i o n s

My clients are not interested in our products and therefore they’re not buying.”

My response: “You’re not interesting.”

This is the hard truth for a lot of individuals whether they are sales professionals or not. Every day we’re selling ourselves, our ideas and solutions. If you’re not influencing your listener to act on what you have to say, it’s time to take a close look at how interesting you are.

• Individuals fall into four categories:

• Action

• Able

• Questionable

• Arguable

These four categories will determine how open or closed, confident or insecure you are to replacing your excuses with action. They will also determine the level of influence and impact you have.

When you’re closed-minded and insecure, you’ll tend to argue new ideas and concepts for enhancing your communication skills. This approach will keep you in the arguable category and will get the same results you always get as a result of your communication skills. Nothing productive can happen when you’re stuck here.

When you’re open-minded yet insecure, you begin to question new ideas and concepts for enhancing your communication skills. It’s as if you’re taking a peak from underneath the covers to see if there is something better. This is a step in the right direction because you’re more open to learning how to increase your level of impact and influence.

When you’re closed-minded and confident, you’re able to enhance your communication skills to have more impact and influence others to take action. Confidence will begin to take over excuses and turn them into action. In this category you’re more likely to cross over into the Action category because you have the confidence to improve.

When you reach Action you have more impact and influence. Being confident and open-minded is a strong combination. The challenge: are you willing to do the work to reach action?

Action Steps

• What was the last excuse you made because you didn’t make a sale, your meeting wasn’t as successful as you had hoped or you didn’t get the results you wanted?

• Before making the next excuse, ask for specific feedback on how your communication is being perceived. You may be surprised when the feedback is different from how you perceive yourself.

Stacey Hanke is an executive consultant, author, coach and speaker with 1st Impression Consulting, Inc. in Chicago, Ill. Contact her at: [email protected] or (773) 209-5970.

When you’re closed-minded and insecure,

you’ll tend to argue new ideas and concepts for

enhancing your communication skills.“ ”

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18 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

t o r o n t o v e n u e g u i d e

The Toronto Venue Guide

The heart of the greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Ontario’s capital city, Toronto is the fifth most densely inhabited muni-cipality in North America. It is also part on the region know as the Golden Horseshoe – home to approximately 25% of

Canada’s population. Toronto is Canada’s number one tourist desti-nation. As the nation’s economic capital, Toronto is the largest and most important financial centre in all of Canada and the fourth largest in North America. The world’s seventh largest stock exchange, the

TSX, is headquartered here along with most of Canada’s corporations. The city is home to the world’s tallest free-standing structure, the CN Tower which is 1,815 feet or 553 meters tall.

Toronto is one of the most accessible cities in North America for dele-gates and meetings of any size by road, air, rail and water; it is located only a one hour drive away for about five million Canadians, and within a 90-minute flight for 60 per cent of the U.S. population.

Interesting facts: • With a population of 5.5 million, Toronto is Canada’s largest city• Toronto is the 5th-largest city in North America, after Mexico City, New York, Los Angeles and Chicago• The most popular choice for U.S. sponsored association meetings outside the U.S.• Top Canadian domestic business travel destination• More than 38,000 hotel rooms in over 230 hotels• The largest convention centre in Canada ranking among the top ten largest continuous-space facilities in North America

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ThePLANNER 19www.theplanner.ca

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e •K

ey

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H: Hotel M: Multipurpose R: Restaurant — : Not available or not reported $: Paid service BH: regular business hours Ext: Exterior Int: Interior

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H Best Western Plus Roehampton Hotel & SuitesContact: Amy Lau, T: 416-487-5101 x. 7118, 1-800-387-8899808 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON M4P 2L2Email: [email protected], F: 416-487-5390Web: http://bestwesternontario.com/hotels/best-western-plus-roehampton-hotel-and-suitesDescription: Located in the Mount Pleasant District, the surrounding neighborhood features residential streets, quaint shops and various restaurants. Subway access is within walking distance of the hotel.Capacity: Reception-100 Banquet-80 Classroom-80 Theatre-100

3 1715 12’ Yes $ Yes

H Bond Place HotelContact: Nina Howell, T: 905-362-9483, 1-800-268-939065 Dundas Street East, Toronto, ON M5B 2G8Email: [email protected], F: 416-362-7757Web: www.bondplace.caDescription: Completely renovated in 2011, ideally situated in downtown Toronto, close to shopping, entertainment and dining. Elegantly appointed meeting rooms with modern AV equipment.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet-148 Classroom-122 Theatre-200

3 2400 8’10” Yes $ Yes

H Cambridge Suites Hotel, TorontoContact: Sharon Worsley, T: 416-368-1990, 1-800-463-199015 Richmond Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1N2Email: [email protected], F: 416-601-3751Web: www.cambridgesuitestoronto.comDescription: Contemporary, 4-Diamond all-suite hotel located in the business, entertainment and shopping districts. The 229 guest suites have spacious living rooms, work areas, entertainment bars. Renovated in 2010, offers a 100% smoke-free environment. Connected to the PATH system.Capacity: Reception-100 Banquet-80 Classroom-60 Theatre-90

4 981 9’ Yes $YesBH

H Cosmopolitan Toronto Hotel and SpaContact: Claire Steele-Drew, T: 416-350-2000, 1-800-958-34888 Colborne Street, Toronto, ON M5E 1E1Email: [email protected], F: 416-350-2460Web: www.cosmotoronto.comDescription: Serene and relaxed, a heaven for travellers. Incredible views of Toronto, contemporary, luxurious and nestled in the city’s financial, entertainment and shopping districts.Capacity: Reception-40 Banquet-32 Classroom-36 Theatre-40

2 520 9’Yes$

IntValet

$Yes

H Courtyard By Marriott Downtown TorontoContact: Holly Hornsby, T: 416-924-0611, 1-800-847-5075475 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M4Y 1X7Email: [email protected], F: 416-924-1413Web: www.courtyard.com/yyzcyDescription: A full service hotel offering outstanding value in a downtown location. Over 13,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and a pillar free ballroom with a capacity of 450 guests.Capacity: Reception-450 Banquet-330 Classroom-224 Theatre-380

19 3348 10’ YesInt

Valet$

Yes24h

H Days Hotel & Conference Centre Toronto Don ValleyContact: Kelly Pink, T: 416-493-9000 x.6870, 1-800-567-8500185 Yorkland Boulevard, Toronto, ON M2J 4R2Email: [email protected], F: 416-502-6853Web: www.dayshoteltoronto.comDescription: Over 14,000 sq. ft. of space featuring extensive meeting rooms and banquet facilities for conferences of up to 400 people. Corporate meeting packages available as well as standard banquet menus.Capacity: Reception-400 Banquet-330 Classroom-250 Theatre-400

14 5460 10’ YesInt$

Yes

H Delta Chelsea HotelContact: Susan Welsby, T: 416-585-4340, 1-800-243-573233 Gerrard Street, Toronto, ON M5G 1Z4Email: [email protected], F: 416 585 4393Web: www.deltachelsea.comDescription: Full service, Three-Diamond hotel centrally located in the heart of downtown Toronto and walking distance from some of the city’s best shopping, theatre, nightlife and attractions.Capacity: Reception-550 Banquet-420 Classroom-300 Theatre-460

19 5200 12’ —Int

Valet$

YesBH

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20 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

Key

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H: Hotel M: Multipurpose R: Restaurant — : Not available or not reported $: Paid service BH: regular business hours Ext: Exterior Int: Interior

Mee

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H Delta Toronto East (EE)Contact: Jamal Jordan, T: 416-754-69982035 Kennedy Road, Toronto, ON M1T 3G2Email: [email protected], F: 416-754-6953Web: www.deltatorontoeast.comDescription: The Delta Toronto East has 25 meeting rooms to accommodate groups of 14 to 850. Beautiful Atrium room is perfect for special receptions and banquets.Capacity: Reception-732 Banquet-760 Classroom-576 Theatre-850

25 9392 — Yes YesYesBH

H Drake Hotel, TheContact: Ashley Arvai, T: 416-531-5042 x.244 1150 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M6J 1J3Email: [email protected], F: 416-531-9493Web: www.thedrakehotel.caDescription: A unique destination for creative and inspired events. Located minutes from the downtown core.Capacity: Reception-600 Banquet-70 Classroom-60 Theatre-100

4 2647 15’ —Yes$

H Fairmont Royal York, TheContact: Director of Sales, T: 416-368-2511, 1-866-540-4489100 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5J 1E3Email: [email protected], F: 416-368-9040Web: www.fairmontmeetings.comDescription: Located across from Union Station and the contact point for Porter’s shuttle service, the Fairmont Royal York has been Toronto’s social and business centre for over 80 years. Conveniently located near theatres, shopping and dining. Minutes away from the MTCC.Capacity: Reception-1670 Banquet-1260 Classroom-748 Theatre-1450

41 12843 24’6” YesInt

Valet$

YesBH

H Four Points by Sheraton Toronto LakeshoreContact: Sandy Pavao, T: 416-766-4393, x.1661926 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON L6V 3C6Email: [email protected], F: 416-766-1278Web: www.fourpointstoronto.comDescription: Nestled by Lake Ontario, featuring 152 guest rooms, just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet-165 Classroom-100 Theatre-200

4 2000 12’ — Yes —

H Four Seasons Hotel TorontoContact: Robert Whalen, T: 416-964-0411, 1-800-268-628260 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, ON M4W 0A4Email: [email protected], F: 416-964-1489Web: www.fourseasons.com/torontoDescription: Soaring above Toronto’s skyline, the new flagship is in the heart of Yorkville and offers Four Seasons comfort and highly personalized service. The hotel is a stunning stage for meetings, conferences and social functions.Capacity: Reception-565 Banquet-430 Classroom-336 Theatre-600

17 6776 20’Yes$

Valet$

Yes

H Gladstone HotelContact: Penny Rose, T: 416-531-4635 x.71211214 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M6M 1J6Email: [email protected], F: 416-539-0953Web: www.gladstonehotel.comDescription: Urban hotel providing versatile venue spaces for social or corporate events. Landmark building offering two floors of multi-functional spaces in the heart of the city’s vibrant art and design neighbourhood.Capacity: Reception-250 Banquet-120 Classroom-75 Theatre-110

— 2100 14’Yes$

$ —

H Grand Hotel and Suites, TheContact: Heidi Wengle, T: 416-863-9000, 1-877-324-7263225 Jarvis Street, Toronto, ON M5B 2C1Email: [email protected], F: 416-863-1100Web: www.grandhoteltoronto.comDescription: Elegant and personalized service and state-of-the-art conveniences in a warm environment; featuring 177 guest rooms.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet-80 Classroom-50 Theatre-200

10 3500 10’Yes$

Valet$

Yes

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e

“Drowning in Data, yet starveD of information.”-Ruth Stana, Global buSineSS ConSultant

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ThePLANNER 21www.theplanner.ca

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H: Hotel M: Multipurpose R: Restaurant — : Not available or not reported $: Paid service BH: regular business hours Ext: Exterior Int: Interior

Mee

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H Hazelton HotelContact: Sales Department, T: 416-963-6321, 1-866-473-6301118 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1C2Email: [email protected], F: 416-963-6350Web: www.thehazeltonhotel.comDescription: Located in the heart of Yorkville district, steps away from the luxury shops of Bloor Street, the hotel is host to three meeting rooms, which include The Silver Screening Room for presentations and product launches.Capacity: Reception-90 Banquet-64 Classroom-45 Theatre-78

3 889 — —Int

Valet$

YesBH

H Hilton TorontoContact: Adam Roston, T: 416-869-3456, 1-800-267-2281145 Richmond Street West, Toronto, ON M5H 2L2Email: [email protected], F: 416-869-3187Web: http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/ontario/hilton-toronto-TORHIHH/index.htmlDescription: Barristers Bar, sizzling steaks at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse or award-winning Canadian cuisine at the Tundra Bar & Restaurant. 20 meeting rooms, a 24-hour business center and Executive Lounge.Capacity: Reception-1000 Banquet-800 Classroom-486 Theatre-900

20 9300 16’Yes$

$ Yes BH

H Holiday Inn Express North YorkContact: Director of Sales, T: 416-665-3500, 1-877-660-855030 Norfinch Drive, North York, ON M3N 1X1Email: [email protected], F: 416-665-3559Web: http://www.hiexpress.com/hotels/us/en/north-york/yyzny/hoteldetailDescription: Complimentary local calls and guest parking, morning weekly newspaper. Complimentary Express Start continental breakfast. Free high-speed Internet in all rooms.Capacity: Reception-100 Banquet-25 Classroom-25 Theatre-70

3 600 9’ — $YesBH

H Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown CentreContact: Nidhi Kapoor, T: 416-542-6006 30 Carlton Street, Toronto, ON M5B 2E9Email: [email protected], F: 416-977-0502Web: http://www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/toronto/yyzct/hoteldetailDescription: Centrally located in downtown Toronto. Over 9,000 sq. ft. of comfortable meeting space equipped with Wi-Fi. 513 guest rooms.Capacity: Reception-130 Banquet-130 Classroom-75 Theatre-130

9 2912 10’ YesInt$

Yes

H Holiday Inn Toronto YorkdaleContact: Stephanie Snowball, T: 416-789-5161 3450 Dufferin Street, Toronto, ON M6A 2V1Email: [email protected], F: 416-785-6845Web: http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/ihg/hotels/us/en/toronto/yyzty/hoteldetailDescription: Award-winning hotel, centrally located within Greater Toronto area, short walk to the Yorkdale Shopping Centre and subway station. Full service amenities, SpaDirect, indoor pool and Cafe Monterey restaurant.Capacity: Reception-375 Banquet-350 Classroom-170 Theatre-375

11 4374 12’Yes$

$ Yes

H Hotel le Germain Maple Leaf SquareContact: Sales Department, T: 416-649-7575, 1-888-940-757575 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, ON M5J 0A1Email: [email protected], F: 416-649-7574Web: www.germainmapleleafsquare.comDescription: 167-room boutique hotel located steps from the Air Canada Centre. Comfortable and inviting atmosphere with personalized service.Capacity: Reception-110 Banquet-70 Classroom-50 Theatre-75

5 1020 — YesInt

Valet$

H Howard Johnson Toronto EastContact: Kelly Dong, T: 416-293-8171 x.411, 1-800-714-749622 Metropolitan Road, Toronto, ON M1R 2T6Email: [email protected], F: 416-321-7400Web: www.hojotoronto.comDescription: Located minutes from the Ontario Science Centre. Large, comfortable rooms, bright meeting space and complimentary continental breakfast.Capacity: Reception-100 Banquet-72 Classroom-75 Theatre-100

6 1400 — Yes Yes Yes

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e •

“the best way out is always through. ”-RobeRt FRoSt

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22 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

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H: Hotel M: Multipurpose R: Restaurant — : Not available or not reported $: Paid service BH: regular business hours Ext: Exterior Int: Interior

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H Hyatt Regency Toronto On KingContact: Celso Thompson, T: 416-434-1234, 1-877-806-0006370 King Street, box 137, Toronto, ON M5V 1J9Email: [email protected], F: 416-599-7394Web: www.hyattregencytoronto.comDescription: In the heart of the entertainment district close to business district, 25,000 sq. ft. of meeting space with state-of-the-art AV equipment and free Wi-Fi.Capacity: Reception-900 Banquet-480 Classroom-210 Theatre-550

14 8964 9’10” YesInt

Valet$

Yes

H InterContinental Toronto CentreContact: Yola Marshall, T: 416-597-1400, 1-800-422-7969225 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 2X3Email: [email protected], F: 416-597-8162 Web: www.torontocentre.intercontinental.comDescription: Located in the “centre of it all”, only steps away from the Rogers Centre, Air Canada Centre, CN Tower and the entertainment and financial districts. The only hotel connected to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre via the main lobby.Capacity: Reception-700 Banquet-510 Classroom-342 Theatre-700

20 5760 9’11” YesInt

Valet$

Yes

H InterContinental Toronto YorkvilleContact: John Lu, T: 416-324-5875, 1-888-594-6835220 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON M5S 1T8Email: [email protected], F: 416-324-5889Web: www.toronto.intercontinental.comDescription: Nestled in the city’s most culturally rich neighbourhood. The hotel has 208 guestrooms; function rooms have windows, wireless Internet and are free of pillars.Capacity: Reception – 250 Banquet - 160 Classroom-140 Theatre - 160

11 2010 9’ 6” $Valet

$YesBH

H Le Méridien King EdwardContact: Winnie Schroder, T: 416-863-3221 37 King Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1E9Email: [email protected], F: 416-863-0642Web: www.thekingedwardhotel.comDescription: Victorian charm, spectacular lobby area, mezzanine and Sovereign Ballroom. English Afternoon Tea and one of the city’s best Sunday Brunches.Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet-350 Classroom-200 Theatre-380

16 5280 11’6” YesInt$

Yes

H Novotel Toronto CentreContact: Jessica Kim, T: 416-367-8900 45 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5E 1W2Email: [email protected], F: 416-860-5154Web: www.novoteltorontocentre.comDescription: Excellent downtown location close to local concert venues and Union Station. Features 262 rooms and suites.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet-180 Classroom-150 Theatre-280

9 2457 9’ –Int$

Yes

H Novotel Toronto North YorkContact: Anastasia Redkina, T: 416-733-2929, 1-800-668-68353 Park Home Avenue, Toronto, ON M2N 6L3Email: [email protected], F: 416-733-3403Web: http://www.novotel.com/gb/hotel-0910-novotel-toronto-north-york/index.shtmlDescription: Located in uptown Toronto with easy access from major highways. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, pool, fitness facilities and on-site subway access.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet-240 Classroom-140 Theatre-375

8 2340 12’ Yes $ Yes

H Old Mill Inn & Spa, TheContact: Maggie Armitage, T: 416-207-2001, 1-866-653-645521 Old Mill Road, Toronto, ON M8X 1G5Email: [email protected], F: 416-236-0311Web: http://www.oldmilltoronto.comDescription: Resort setting in Toronto. Sixteen distinctly decorated meeting rooms accommodating up to 1,000 people. Many rooms feature wood burning fireplaces, windows and walkouts to beautifully landscaped gardens. Beautiful 4-Diamond Hotel. Elegant on-site Spa. Capacity: Reception-1000 Banquet-750 Classroom-480 Theatre-800

16 8316 11’Yes$

YesYesBH

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e

“as we look aheaD into the next century, leaDers will be those who empower others. ”-bill GateS

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H One King West Hotel & ResidenceContact: Matt Black, T: 416-548-8114 1 King Street West, Toronto, ON M5H 1A1Email: [email protected], F: 416-548-8101Web: www.onekingwest.comDescription: Ideal venue for galas, product launches, business meetings or private parties. Steps away from the office and into the most remarkable, historically significant venue in Toronto.Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet-220 Classroom-180 Theatre-400

13 3500 35’Yes$

$YesBH

H Pantages Suites Hotel & SpaContact: Raymond Leach, T: 416-945-5447, 1-866-852-1777200 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON M5B 1V8Email: [email protected], F: 416-368-8217Web: www.pantageshotel.comDescription: Contemporary and modern elegance with 6,500 sq. ft. of flexible meeting and event space.Capacity: Reception-295 Banquet-220 Classroom-220 Theatre-300

6 3493 14’Yes$

Int$

YesBH

H Park Hyatt TorontoContact: Christina Ramsay, T: 416-925-1234 4 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON M5R 2E8Email: [email protected], F: 416-924-4933Web: www.parkhyatttoronto.comDescription: Perfectly situated in the heart of the fashionable Yorkville district, the hotel represents en elite level of luxury marked by subtle contemporary influence. Experience one of Toronto’s premier spas, the Stillwater, a 10,000 sq. ft. urban oasis with 17 treatment rooms.Capacity: Reception-600 Banquet-270 Classroom-255 Theatre-475

12 5335 15’Yes$

IntValet

$Yes

H Radisson Hotel Admiral Toronto - HarbourfrontContact: Mike Lee, T: 416-203-3333, 1-800-333-3333249 Queen’s Quay West, Toronto, ON M5J 2N5Email: [email protected], F: 416-203-3100Web: www.radissonadmiral.comDescription: A boutique-style hotel with a spectacular view of Lake Ontario at Toronto’s Harbourfront with 157 non-smoking deluxe rooms & studios. Restaurant, bar, business and fitness centres; outdoor pool and patio available on the premise.Capacity: Reception-400 Banquet-240 Classroom-170 Theatre-400

8 3146 13’ Yes $YesBH

H Radisson Suite Hotel Toronto AirportContact: Ivan Korec, T: 416-242-7400, 1-800-333-3333640 Dixon Road, Toronto, ON M9W 1J1Email: [email protected], F: 416-242-9888Web: www.radisson.com/torontoca_airportDescription: All-suite hotel, located right beside the Toronto Congress Centre with easy access to all major highways. Variety of restaurants right outside the front door. 5 minutes to Pearson International Airport (free shuttle) and 20 minutes to downtown.Capacity: Reception-50 Banquet-40 Classroom-25 Theatre-50

4 688 9’ — $ Yes

H Ramada Plaza TorontoContact: Scott Thompson, T: 416-977-4823, 1-800-567-2233300 Jarvis Street, Toronto, ON M5B 2C5Email: [email protected], F: 416-977-4830Web: www.ramadaplazatoronto.comDescription: More than 6,500 sq. ft. of meeting space and 102 guest rooms and suites. Complimentary wireless internet access. Full range of audio-visual equipment and staffed business centre.Capacity: Reception-250 Banquet-180 Classroom-130 Theatre-250

10 2000 10’ Yes $ Yes

H Renaissance Toronto Hotel DowntownContact: Erin Dumont, T: 416-341-5047, 1-800-237-15121 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 1J4Email: [email protected], F: 416-341-5090Web: www.renaissancetorontodowntown.comDescription: World’s only Four-Diamond hotel located in a major league sports and entertainment venue. Next to the Convention Centre and CN Tower. 348 rooms with 70 rooms overlooking the stadium.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet-250 Classroom-150 Theatre-320

10 4066 14’ — $YesBH

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e •

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24 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

d e s t i n at i o n : t o r o n t o

By Jyl Ashton Cunningham, CMP

Ever since Toronto was tagged over 100 years ago with the nickname, The Good, the city has worked tirelessly to free itself from the stigmas that came with it.

Deemed by many until around the late 1970’s as a rather boring and cautious, bordering on puritani-cal, destination with a very tall tower and limited partying hours, Toronto was a poor second cousin to Montreal and Quebec City, both cities that never seem to sleep. I can still remember some stran-ge licensing laws, where alcoholic drinks could not be carried around a venue except by the servers and some places would only serve alco-hol if food was also purchased.

National Geographic cites Toronto in

its 2012 destination recommendations

with the following accolades: “Toronto

has matured into a (still polite) multicultural

patchwork of vibrant neighborhoods and has

recently enjoyed a billion-dollar cultural renais-

sance. Mapped with a green world of hidden

ravines, Toronto is glutted with an exhaustive

range of ethnic restaurants, arts festivals, and

shopping drags. Toronto’s virtues are now also

its pleasures”.

Pleasures don’t begin to describe the plethora

of restaurants, bars and nightclubs; theatres and

entertainment centres; fabulous hotels, conven-

tion centres and corporate event venues in the

downtown core alone. Venture a little further

out of the city in any direction and some of the

most beautiful scenery, award winning wineries

and outstanding resorts can be reached in two

hours or less. Adventure is also close at hand,

on water, land and in the air.

In 2011 Toronto’s population stood at 2,615,060,

a 4.5% increase over the 2006 Census. The

GTA houses around 6,000,000 people and is

expanding at an alarming rate. It is a major

hub for Canada, the US, Caribbean and Europe,

with the largest airport in Canada, Pearson

International and two other airports, Billy Bishop

downtown and HI (Hamilton International) west

of the City, serving mainly Canadian and US

cities. There are over 300 hotels to choose from

in the Greater Toronto area, together with four

major convention centres and several hotels

with convention facilities. Toronto is accessible

by train from the US and across Canada, as well

as by bus from all major North American Cities.

It is just over an hour to the US border, with

three major crossings, each having reasonable

wait times outside of holiday seasons. The

population is diverse and cosmopolitan and

food from every corner of the world is readily

available in the City and suburbs.

Probably the most significant change to down-

town Toronto has been the seemingly never-

ending development of new office towers,

condominiums and hotels. Some pretty impres-

sive hotel chains are adding Toronto to their

portfolio, not least Trump, which recently ope-

ned its doors on Richmond Street in a sparkling

array of Swarovski Crystal and gorgeous rooms

with a view. The Ritz Carlton, now just over a

year old and a little off the regular hotel radar

at Wellington and John, is a stunning example

of how to do things right, with understated ele-

gance and prices that are attainable and nego-

tiable. Service at each, as you might expect,

is above and beyond. A little to the west of

the Ritz Carlton is the elegant Thompson Hotel

at Wellington and Bathhurst, owned by Jason

Pomeranc who was recently quoted as saying,

“Toronto is a natural choice because it has a real

synergy with New York and as a financial centre,

and it also has a synergy with Los Angeles and

Hollywood because of the film festival. This is

where our core customers are.”

Still to come, the Shangri-La and the new Four

Seasons, two high-end properties that continue

to endorse the fact that Toronto has finally

grown up and is welcoming the world to its

glittering doorsteps. Not to be outdone, some

landmark hotels are also being reborn, with the

Fairmont Royal York planning a multi million

dollar facelift from the basement to the attic,

leaving no stone, carpet or stick of furniture

unturned. A long time coming, the results are

guaranteed to be fantastic, without disrupting

the hotel operations in any significant way,

according to Fairmont Global Sales Director

Michael Welsh. Watch this space for further

exciting developments.

Although it certainly helps to have a respecta-

ble budget to experience the finer aspects of

Toronto, planners with less money to work with

should not discount the city, whatever the time

of year. All it takes is creativity, enthusiastic

supplier negotiation tactics and the ability to

convince delegates that an incentive destina-

tion can be just as much fun on a lower budget.

That being said, sometimes the urge to splash

out is too irresistible and a little luxury just

seems right, remembering that hotel accom-

modation rates are generally negotiable, you

simply need to ask. Approaching a hotel with a

pre-set budget often pays off and no hotel will

turn away valid business as long as the client

demographic fits the hotel being sourced.

Jyl Ashton Cunningham, CMP is owner of JAAC Meetings & Events By Design and Associate Editor of The Planner. Jyl welcomes your comments and can be reached at [email protected]

Toronto Hotels The Good, The Great and The Beautiful

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H Sheraton Centre Toronto HotelContact: Starwood Toronto Metro Market, T: 416-361-1000 123 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5H 2M9Email: [email protected], F: 416-947-4854Web: www.sheraton.com/centretorontoDescription: Over 50 meeting rooms in various sizes including a Grand Ballroom, 60,000 sq. ft. of contiguous exhibit space and a dedicated kosher kitchen.Capacity: Reception-3500 Banquet-1900 Classroom-1400 Theatre 2300

57 20,212 19’10” Yes $ Yes

H SoHo Metropolitan HotelContact: Katherine Ross, T: 416-597-6327 318 Wellington Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 3T4Email: [email protected], F: 416-599-3317Web: http://soho.metropolitan.com/Description: Boutique hotel with contemporary decor and gourmet food and beverage provided by Senses. Located in the heart of the entertainment district with numerous shops and theatres within walking distance.Capacity: Reception-80 Banquet-81 Classroom-35 Theatre-80

4 915 8’6” —Int

Valet$

YesBH

H Sutton Place Hotel Toronto, TheContact: Anna La, T: 416-924-9221, 1-866-378-8866955 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2A2Email: [email protected], F: 416-924-1778Web: www.suttonplace.comDescription: Centrally located, just steps from the fashionable boutiques of Yorkville and world-class arts & entertainment venues. 311 guestrooms, luxury suites and furnished La grande Residence Apartements.Four-Diamonds AAA/CAACapacity: Reception-271 Banquet-271 Classroom-180 Theatre-271

13 3586 11’Yes$

IntValet

$

Yes24h

H The Ritz-Carlton, TorontoContact: Daniel Newberry, T: 416-585-2500 181 Wellington Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 3G7Email: [email protected], F: 416-585-2503Web: http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Toronto/Default.htmDescription: Located in the heart of the city’s financial and performing arts districts, across from Roy Thomson Hall and steps away from the Toronto International Film Festival Bell Lightbox. 267 elegant guest rooms and suites, and state-of-the-art meeting rooms for board meetings, product launches or corporate celebrations.Capacity: Reception-700 Banquet-540 Classroom-425 Theatre-700

11 7400 18’ —Int

Valet$

YesBH

H Toronto Don Valley Hotel & SuitesContact: Sales Department, T: 416-385-6726 175 Wynford Drive, Toronto, ON M3C 1J3Email: [email protected], F: 416-385-6700Web: http://www.torontodonvalleyhotel.com/Description: 100% smoke-free property features bright open spaces with natural light and stunning views. Guest rooms with balconies, indoor and outdoor pools and resort-style amenities. 16,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space can accommodate reception, banquet, theatre or classroom configurations for up to 700 people.Capacity: Reception-900 Banquet-500 Classroom-300 Theatre-700

16 6000 28’Yes$

Int$

YesBH

H Toronto Marriott Bloor YorkvilleContact: Alicia Bodanis, T: 416-515-2571, 1-800-859-718090 Bloor Street East, Toronto, ON M4W 1A7Email: [email protected], F: 416-961-9581Web: www.marriottbloor.comDescription: Located in the heart of the fashionable Yorkville district with direct underground access to the Yonge and Bloor Toronto subway systems.Capacity: Reception-400 Banquet-360 Classroom-160 Theatre-400

10 5200 — Yes $YesBH

H Toronto Marriott Downtown Eaton Centre HotelContact: Jennifer Worden, T: 416-597-9200, 1-800-905-0667525 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 2L2Email: [email protected], F: 416-597-9211Web: www.marriotteatoncentre.comDescription: Flagship Marriott in Canada, centrally located in the heart of the financial and shopping district. Offers 459 deluxe guest rooms and flexible meeting space.Capacity: Reception-850 Banquet-660 Classroom-408 Theatre-800

17 7952 15’ —Int

Valet$

Yes24h

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e

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H Westin Harbour Castle Hotel, TheContact: Sales Department, T: 416-814-12991 Harbour Square, Toronto, ON M5J 1A6Email: [email protected], F: 416-306-1461Web: www.westinharbourcastletoronto.com/Description: Located in downtown Toronto on the waterfront, this CAA/AAA Four diamond urban hotel retreat offers 977 rooms, an indoor pool, outdoor tennis court and an adjoining conference center. A fully equipped business centre and in-house audiovisual company are available.Capacity: Reception-3000 Banquet-2200 Classroom-1500 Theatre-2100

32 24990 16’9”Yes$

SelfValet

$

Yes24h

H Westin Prince, TorontoContact: Carol Parrott, T: 416-444-2511, 1-800-westin-1900 York Mills Road, Toronto, ON M3B 3H2Email: [email protected], F: 416-444-9597Web: http://www.westinprincetoronto.com/Description: The only hotel in Toronto to receive the prestigious CAA Four-Diamond Award for 36 consecutive years. Situated on 16 acres of parkland and is considered a resort within the city. Easy access to major highways.Capacity: Reception-700 Banquet-600 Classroom-450 Theatre-700

21 7437 18’ – $Yes24h

H Windsor Arms HotelContact: Sales Department, T: 416-971-9666, 1-877-999-276718 Thomas Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3E7Email: [email protected], F: 416-921-9121Web: www.windsorarmshotel.comDescription: The best kept secret in the heart of Yorkville, this luxurious boutique hotel combines every facility expected of a great property with timeless elegance. Its Courtyard Cafe can accommodate from 10 to 500 guests.Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet-250 Classroom-140 Theatre-300

7 3000 50’Yes$

Valet$

YesBH

M 99 SudburyContact: Nadia, T: 416-849-6567 99 Sudbury Street, Toronto, ON M6J 3S7Email: [email protected]: www.99sudbury.caDescription: Nestled in the heart of West Queen West, 99 Sudbury is a multifunctional event space located close to some of Canada’s finest galleries and trendy Liberty Village, renowned for its fusion of New York chic and modern Renaissance.Capacity: Reception-1500 Banquet-600 Classroom-400 Theatre-500

4 6500 18’ — $ Yes

M Academy of Spherical Arts, TheContact: Jenna Sorgente, T: 416-532-2782 x.23 # 1 Snooker Street, Toronto, ON M6K 1G1Email: [email protected], F: 416-532-3075Web: www.sphericalarts.comDescription: Opened in 1991 in the old Brunswick Billiard factory. Special event facility featuring twelve antique billiard tables. Offers a club-like setting in turn of the century post and beam construction, art filled walls, and comfortable eclectic furniture groupings.Capacity: Reception-600 Banquet-150 Classroom-80 Theatre-120

4 4655 20’ No $ Yes

M Advocates’ Society, TheContact: Johanna O’Brian, T: 416-597-0243 x.113 480 University Avenue, Suite 1700, Toronto, ON M5G 1V2Email: [email protected], F: 416-597-1588Web: www.advocates.caDescription: State of the art audio-visual equipment. All rooms offer natural light. Located in downtown core close to major hotels. Large room with dividers, boardroom, reception and registration desk. Catering service available.Capacity: Reception- Banquet-160 Classroom— Theatre—

2 — — Yes $ Yes

M Albany Club of TorontoContact: Nancy Wright, T: 416-364-5471 x.224 91 King Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1G3Email: [email protected], F: 416-364-3075Web: www.albanyclub.caDescription: Stately historic 1880s building, centrally located downtown, steps from King & Younge streets, across from the stunning gardens of St James Cathedral & park. Full service catering and event planning.Capacity: Reception- Banquet-130 Classroom-70 Theatre-140

8 1800 20’ Yes $ Yes

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M All Star InteractiveContact: Branka Nikolovski, T: 416-261-5011 2791 Eglinton Avenue East, Toronto, On M1J 2E1Email: [email protected] Web: www.allstarinteractive.caDescription: A spectacular bi-level event venue complete with bowling lanes, pool tables, a full service kitchen, cocktail lounges, flat screen TVs, surround sound and cosmic lighting.Capacity: Reception-130 Banquet-250 Classroom— Theatre—

2 14000 — No Free Yes

M Allen Lambert Galleria, Brookfield PlaceContact: Franca Bellisario, T: 416-777-6480 181 Bay Street, Suite 220, Toronto, ON M5J 2T3Email: [email protected]: www.brookfieldplacenewsandevents.comDescription: Six-storey indoor avenue resplendent in light and glass. 85 feet high, 45 feet wide and 360 feet long, ideal for special events.Capacity: Reception-1500 Banquet— Classroom-300 Theatre-400

4 16000 85’ —Int$

Yes24h

M Allstream CentreContact: Geoff Mak, T: 416-263-3026 105 Princes Boulevard, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3Email: [email protected], F: 416-263-3029Web: www.allstreamcentre.comDescription: The centre is located on the grounds of Exhibition Place. Hybrid of modern technology and Historical art deco. Offers Toronto’s largest column free ballroom. LEED silver certification.Capacity: Reception-3750 Banquet-2600 Classroom-2950 Theatre-4000

20 43900 30’ —Int$

Yes

M Andrew Richard Designs - ARD EventsContact: Anna Di Carlo, T: 416-601-1454 571 Adelaide Street East, Toronto, ON M5A 1N8Email: [email protected]: www.andrewricharddesigns.comDescription: Fabulous atrium on the main floor, loft style space on the second floor. Use of exquisite showroom furniture for events; onsite event coordinator and interior designer. Fresh urban ambiance and round-the-year summer exprience.Capacity: Reception-700 Banquet-250 Classroom- Theatre-300

3 7500 14’ Yes $ —

M Arcadian CourtContact: Oliver & Bonacini Events T: 1-888-244-6656401 Bay Street, Simspon Tower, 8th Floor, Toronto, ON M5H 2Y4Email: [email protected], F: 416-366-4848Web: http://events.oliverbonacini.com Description: Originally opened in 1929, the Arcadian Court has a deep and rich history as a Toronto institution. Recently revitalized, featuring improved acoustics, beautiful chandeliers that are a deconstructed take on the original Lalique crystal chandeliers, and an opened-up mezzanine offering a 360 degree view.Capacity: Reception-1000 Banquet- 500 Classroom- 300 Theatre- 450

1 8086 35’ YesExt$

YesBH

M Arcadian LoftContact: Oliver & Bonacini Events T: 1-888-244-6656401 Bay Street, Simspon Tower, 8th Floor, Toronto, ON M5H 2Y4Email: [email protected], F: 416-366-4848Web: http://events.oliverbonacini.com Description: Can be booked as a whole or can be divided to up to five rooms to fit specific event needs. State-of-the-art technology includes drop down screens and integrated sound dampening/absorbing materials. Loft-like décor features include open concrete ceilings, a reclaimed grey washed brick accent wall, oversized metal warehouse doors. Spectacular views of Old and New City Hall through a 200-feet long glass wall.Capacity: Reception-400 Banquet-312 Classroom-250 Theatre-370

5 6773 9.5’ NoExt$

Yes

M Arta GalleryContact: Sara Dunster, T: 416-364-2782 The Distillery District, 14 Distillery Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4Email: [email protected]: www.artagallery.caDescription: Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the gallery is visually stunning and remarkably flexible.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet— Classroom-100 Theatre-100

1 3200 12’ Yes $Yes24h

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M Arts & Letters Club of Toronto, TheContact: Joseph Sweeney, T: 416-597-0223 x.1 14 Elm Street, Toronto, ON M5G 1G7Email: [email protected], F: 416-597-9544Web: www.artsandlettersclub.caDescription: Located in downtown Toronto, the Great Hall boasts cathedral ceilings, clerestory windows, a fireplace and a stage with a fully-equipped lighting system.Capacity: Reception-150 Banquet-112 Classroom-48 Theatre-112

4 1332 — Yes $ Yes

M Atlantis PavilionsContact: Shelly Stamplecoskie, T: 416-260-8000 955 Lakeshore Boulevard West, Toronto, ON M6K 3B9Email: [email protected], F: 416-260-0552Web: www.atlantispavilions.comDescription: The newly renovated gem of Toronto’s waterfront. Landmark location, four spectacular ballrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Panoramic views of the Toronto skyline and waterfront.Capacity: Reception-800 Banquet-400 Classroom-240 Theatre-500

4 5600 30’ Yes $ Yes

M Bata Shoe Museum, TheContact: Rosemarie Gadzovski, T: 416-979-7799 x.243, 327 Bloor Street, Toronto, ON M5S 1W7Email: [email protected]: www.batashoemuseum.caDescription: Award-winning architecture and design by architect Raymond Moriyama.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet-120 Classroom-60 Theatre-100

1 1200 52’ Yes $ Yes

M Black Creek Pioneer VillageContact: Corporate Sales, T: 416-667-62861000 Murray Ross Parkway, Toronto, ON M3J 2P3Email: [email protected]: www.blackcreek.caDescription: A one-of-a-kind venue in Toronto for a wide range of business events. The charming historic setting, exceptional meeting facilities and catering services make Black Creek an ideal location for hosting a small or large function.Capacity: Reception-250 Banquet-200 Classroom-150 Theatre-240

5 3000 18’ — $ Yes

M BMO Financial Group Insititute for LearningContact: Lesley-Anne Carrothers Keegan, T: 416-490-4300 3550 Pharmacy Avenue, Toronto, ON M1W 2Z3Email: [email protected], F: 416-490-4445Web: ifl.bmo.comDescription: the Institute for Learning is BMO’s corporate university and a tangible demonstration of their commitment to learning. The building, designed by Moriyama and Teshima architects is flooded in natural light and with over 260,000 sq. ft. of space is simply the natural choice for your learning meeting or conference venue.Capacity: Reception-450 Banquet-300 Classroom-300 Theatre-450

57 5583 11’ — $ Yes

M C LoungeContact: Renee Massar, T: 416-542-3789 x.287 456 Wellington Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 1E3Email: [email protected], F: 416-260-0598Web: www.libertygroup.comDescription: From the creator of the famous “Fire and Ice Lounge”. One of the most beautiful and spacious patios in the city. Popular venue for after parties, notably the Toronto Film Festival.Capacity: Reception-600 Banquet— Classroom— Theatre—

1 5000 18’ Yes $ Yes

M Capitol Event Theatre, TheContact: Sandro Calcagno, T: 416-322-3322 2492 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M4P 2H7Email: [email protected], F: 416-322-3943Web: www.capitolevents.caDescription: Restored to its original 1918 grandeur, features elegant vintage details and warm mature charm; offering a unique setting for corporate and private functions. Also features executive Chef Stephen Ricci.Capacity: Reception-650 Banquet-300 Classroom-300 Theatre-650

1 3025 45’ Yes $ Yes

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M Carlu, TheContact: Kelli MacKinnon, T: 416-597-1931 444 Yonge Street, 7th Floor, Toronto, ON M5B 2H4Email: [email protected], F: 416-597-9319Web: www.thecarlu.comDescription: Located at the corner of College and Yonge in the heart of downtown. Internationally-renowned architecture in the “Art Moderne” style. For corporate and social events, product launches and meetings.Capacity: Reception-1500 Banquet-600 Classroom-450 Theatre-1200

4 7000 43’ YesValet

$Yes

M Casa LomaContact: Tina Katz, T: 416-923-1172 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8Email: [email protected], F: 416-923-5734Web: www.casaloma.orgDescription: Casa Loma - majestic castle overlooking Toronto, with elegant architecture and interior design. Seasonal gardens. Exclusive evening use of the entire main floor with daytime meeting room space also available.Capacity: Reception-550 Banquet-300 Classroom-125 Theatre-250

4 5000 60’ Yes YesYesBH

M Cineplex Entertainment TheatresContact: Julie Wiggins, T: 416-323-66181303 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M4T 2Y9Email: [email protected], F: 416-323-6625Web: www.cineplex.comDescription: Theatre auditoriums feature state of the art audio visual systems for power point, webcasting or video presentations.  Comfortable stadium seating in twenty two locations in the GTA for groups from 28 to 575 people.Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet — Classroom- 575 Theatre 575

250 7000 50’Yes$

Int$

Yes

M CN TowerContact: Sales Department, T: 416-601-4718 301 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 2T6Email: [email protected], F: 416-601-4712Web: www.cntower.caDescription: A landmark icon provides a spectacular setting. Award-winning cuisine and ambiance Multiple venues include theatre, meeting rooms, Horizons Restaurant and 360 the Restaurant at the top of the CN Tower.Capacity: Reception-2000 Banquet-400 Classroom-36 Theatre-144

4 — — — $YesBH

M Conference Centre at the OBA, TheContact: Annette Wing, T: 416-869-1047 x.321 20 Toronto Street, Suite 200, Toronto, ON M5C 2B8Email: [email protected], F: 416-869-0450Web: www.obaconferencecentre.orgDescription: A striking meeting room complex on the second floor of 20 Toronto Street. Can hold meetings for 3 to 300 people; the facilities provide a professional, comfortable environment for short meetings or all-day functions.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet-150 Classroom-140 Theatre-300

— — — Yes $YesBH

M Courthouse, TheContact: Renee Massar, T: 416-542-3789 x.287 57 Adelaide Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1K6Email: [email protected], F: 416-260-0598Web: www.libertygroup.comDescription: Restored building in the heart of the theatre district. Outstanding features include a custom-built acoustic stage with top-of-the-line sound system. Ideal for product launches, corporate functions, wedding receptions, concerts and after-parties.Capacity: Reception-400 Banquet-150 Classroom-80 Theatre-200

2 5500 25’ Yes $ Yes

M Crocodile Rock TorontoContact: Barry McLeod, T: 416-599-9751 249 Adelaide Street, Toronto, ON M5L 1W7Email: [email protected], F: 416-599-5953Web: www.crocrock.caDescription: Famous and popular Party Bar, with music, entertainment and energy. DJ and dancing nightly.Capacity: Reception— Banquet-100 Classroom-150 Theatre-160

3 2500 18’ — — —

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M CubeContact: Jeff Wojcik, T: 416-869-9444 x.232, 314 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 2A2Email: [email protected], F: 416-869-1444Web: www.inkvenues.comDescription: Perfect for cocktail receptions with a great roof-top patio during the summer months. The lounge boasts one of the cities best HD LED video walls perfect for presentations, logo placement and videos.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet— Classroom— Theatre—

1 — — Yes $ No

M Design ExchangeContact: Gillian Hoff, T: 416-216-2146 234 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5K 1B2Email: [email protected], F: 416-368-0684Web: www.dx.orgDescription: Located in the original historic Toronto Stock Exchange building within the financial district. The DX offers many spaces for events. Proceeds from events support design education programs and its museum.Capacity: Reception-550 Banquet-300 Classroom-300 Theatre-500

5 6000 40’ YesInt

Valet$

YesBH

M Direct Energy CenterContact: Geoff Mak, T: 416-263-3026 100 Princes Boulevard, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3Email: [email protected], F: 416-263-3029Web: www.directenergycentre.comDescription: Largest trade show facility in Canada with over 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space. Located on the grounds of Exhibition Place, joined by Allstream Center via a city’s underground pedestrian tunnel.Capacity: Reception-6000 Banquet-3000 Classroom-4500 Theatre-4500

31 125000 40’ Yes $ —

M Easy & The FifthContact: Jennifer Parrott, T: 416-979-3005 225 Richmond Street West, Suite 500, Toronto, ON M5V 1W3Email: [email protected], F: 416-979-9877Web: www.thefifth.comDescription: Famous for its award winning cuisine, excellent service and beautiful setting, The Fifth has been a venue of choice for over 12 years. Three beautifully furnished loft style rooms and a stunning view over the city’s skyline from the year-round terrace.Capacity: Reception-1000 Banquet-160 Classroom-100 Theatre-100

2 10000 14’ — $ Yes

M Edward Day GalleryContact: Mary Sue Rankin/ Kelly McCray, T: 416-921-6540 952 Queen Street West, Suite 200, Toronto, ON M6J 1G8Email: [email protected], F: 416-921-6624Web: www.edwarddaygallery.comDescription: Commercial, contemporary art gallery. Private or corporate functions in spacious surroundings including current exhibit display. Five per cent discount on gallery purchases up to a year following event.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet-150 Classroom— Theatre-125

1 3500 — — $YesBH

M Eglinton GrandContact: Sales Department, T: 416-485-5900 400 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto, ON M5N 1A2Email: [email protected], F: 416-485-0292Web: www.eglintongrand.comDescription: Formerly The Eglinton Theatre, this historic landmark has been restored to its original 1937 grandeur. Spectacular ballroom adorned with mahogany and ebony, elegant marble, wainscoting and period furniture.Capacity: Reception-1000 Banquet-400 Classroom— Theatre-500

2 7000 35’ — $ —

M Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre, TheContact: Kevin Harris, T: 416-325-4144 189 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M5B 1M4Email: [email protected], F: 416-314-3583Web: www.heritagetrust.on.caDescription: Contains two separate vaudeville-era theatres, the Elgin (1,560 seats) and the Winter Garden (992 seats). Has a series of elegant lobby areas available for receptions up to 1,000 people.Capacity: Reception-1000 Banquet-120 Classroom-150 Theatre-1560

5 — 25’ Yes $ Yes

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M Enoch Turner SchoolhouseContact: Carole Choucoutou, T: 416-314-4914 108 Trinity Street, Toronto, ON M5A 3C6Email: [email protected], F: 416-314-5304Web: www.heritagetrust.on.caDescription: First free school in Toronto. The original one-room school was built in 1848 and the West Hall was added in 1869. Today, the combined spaces make this a unique venue for special events.Capacity: Reception-175 Banquet-150 Classroom-80 Theatre-150

3 2300 25’ — $ —

M Epic CruisesContact: Sales Department, T: 416-364-6999 1 Yonge Street, Suite 104, Toronto, ON M5E 1E5Email: [email protected]: www.epiccruises.caDescription: Epic Cruises is home to the River Gambler, which boasts the largest open deck dance floor in Toronto Harbour. Spacious areas perfect for corporate events, DJ cruises, dinner cruises, weddings and much more!Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet-160 Classroom— Theatre-150

— 2520 8’ — $ —

M Fermenting Cellar at the Distillery Historic District,TheContact: Sales Department, T: 416-203-2363 28 Distillery Lane Toronto, ON M5A 3C4Email: [email protected], F: 416-203-2298Web: www.distilleryevents.comDescription: Located in Distillery Historic District. Events are held in an industrial chic setting. Heavy timber beams and trusses and original Kingston limestone walls provide a unique ambiance.Capacity: Reception-600 Banquet-400 Classroom— Theatre-600

1 7500 35’ —Int

Valet$

Yes

M FountainbluContact: Jorge Dias, T: 416-263-3290 200 Princes’ Boulevard, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3Email: [email protected], F: 416-263-3291Web: www.fountainblu.caDescription: With 5,500 sq. ft. of indoor meeting space, Fountainblu caters to groups of every size and type, from executive board meetings tow weddings and small-scale conventions.Capacity: Reception-600 Banquet-400 Classroom— Theatre-450

2 6000 18’ Yes Yes Yes

M Four Seasons Centre for the Performing ArtsContact: Four Seasons Centre Events, T: 416-342-5233 145 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5H 4G1Email: [email protected], F: 416-368-2072Web: www.fourseasonscentre.caDescription: Purpose-built Opera House with full size theatre and five storrey lobby. Theatre rentals for concerts, AGMs and fundraisers; large lobby and private lounge for receptions, dinners, product launches - high and elegant look with glass and open space architecture, very contemporary.Capacity: Reception-1800 Banquet-132 Classroom-150 Theatre-2163

8 — 39’Yes$

Int$

Yes

M George Brown HouseContact: Event Coordinator, T: 416-314-3585 186 Beverley Street, Toronto, ON M5T 1L4Email: [email protected], F: 416-314-5304Web: www.heritagetrust.on.caDescription: Crystal chandeliers, marble and ebony fireplaces, intricate flooring and mahogany panelling. Built in 1876 for Senator George Brown. Gracious and intimate setting accommodates up to 90 guests.Capacity: Reception-90 Banquet-64 Classroom-22 Theatre-50

4 756 13’ — $ —

M Glenn Gould StudioContact: Shannon Spafford, T: 416-205-5000 250 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 3G7Email: [email protected], F: 416-205-5551Web: http://www.cbc.ca/glenngould/Description: “Jewel of the Canadian Broadcasting Centre” and among Toronto’s favourite venues for concert-goers. It is also an ideal rental location for performances, business functions and audio recordings.Capacity: Reception— Banquet— Classroom— Theatre-341

1 5400 30’ Yes $YesBH

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M Graydon Hall ManorContact: Nicole Pieckenhagen, T: 416-449-5432 x.21 185 Graydon Hall Drive, Toronto, ON M3A 3B4Email: [email protected], F: 416-449-9830Web: www.graydonhall.comDescription: A beautiful historic manor set in acres of formal gardens. Situated north of downtown, close to highway 401 & DVP. The perfect venue for launch parties, award dinners, holiday celebrations and summer barbecues. Capacity: Reception-250 Banquet-180 Classroom-70 Theatre-110

4 4000 14’ Yes YesYesBH

M Great Hall, TheContact: Rental Office, T: 905-615-9957 1087 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M6J 1H3Email: [email protected], F: 905-615-9914Web: www.thegreathall.caDescription: Built in 1889, The Great Hall remains a historic Toronto landmark and vintage venue in the heart of the Art & Design District.Capacity: Reception-480 Banquet-200 Classroom-180 Theatre-350

2 3000 40’ Yes $ Yes

M Great Lakes Schooner Company (Seasonal)Contact: Rental Office, T: 416-260-6355, 1-800-267-3866249 Queen’s Quay West, Suite 111, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8Email: [email protected], F: 416-260-6377Web: www.greatlakesschooner.comDescription: The finest sailing and motor yachts for private charters. Custom tours, incentive programs, corporate functions and educational programs for groups from 10-500. Fully licensed vessels.Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet-200 Classroom— Theatre—

— — — — $ —

M Hart HouseContact: Paul Templin, T: 416-978-24497 Hart House Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3H3Email: [email protected]: www.harthouse.utoronto.caDescription: Considered one of the city’s architectural masterpieces, with soaring stained glass windows, marble floor and oak timbered ceilings. Fully enclosed and private courtyard.Capacity: Reception-450 Banquet-250 Classroom-60 Theatre-400

16 4370 60’ Yes $YesBH

M Hockey Hall of FameContact: Sarah Lee, T: 416-548-9697 Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M5E 1X8Email: [email protected], F: 416-360-1316Web: www.hhof.comDescription: From meetings and presentations to cocktail receptions and dinners with the Stanley Cup, in the home of Canada’s national sport. Easy access to Union station.Capacity: Reception-1000 Banquet-150 Classroom-80 Theatre-125

2 55000 14’ —Int$

Yes24h

M Ivey ING Leadership CentreContact: Gunjan Kahlon, T: 416-861-9600 x.222130 King Street West , Ground Floor, Toronto, ON M5X 1A9Email: [email protected], F: 416-861-8789Web: http://www.iveyingleadershipcentre.com/Description: Meeting space in downtown Toronto, located on the main floor of the Exchange Tower adjacent to First Canadian Place. Two two-tiered amphitheatres, flat area meeting rooms as well as break-out space.Capacity: Reception-100 Banquet-60 Classroom-66 Theatre-40

11 1380 13’ YesInt$

M Jamie Kennedy at the Gardiner MuseumContact: Event Catering, T: 416-362-1957 x.201 111 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C7Email: [email protected]: www.jamiekennedy.caDescription: Minimalist space with floor to ceiling windows and limestone floors. The Terrace Room has spectacular views up and down Queen’s Park and across to the ROM. Groups can also rent the Museum’s lobby.Capacity: Reception-250 Banquet-150 Classroom— Theatre-150

1 1254 14’Yes$

—YesBH

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M JPR Meeting RoomsContact: Sharon McCarney, T: 416-368-5856 390 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5H 2Y2Email: [email protected], F: 416-368-2136Web: www.jprmeetingrooms.comDescription: Discreet business environment of 85 rooms for 4 to 120 people. Coffee lounges with all day complimentary coffee and refreshments. House phones. Full AV services and a highly-trained staff.Capacity: Reception— Banquet— Classroom-40 Theatre-120

85 1000 10’ Yes $ Yes

M KoolhausContact: Jeff Wojcik, T: 416-869-9444 132 Queens Quay East, Toronto, ON M5A 3Y5Email: [email protected], F: 416-869-1444Web: www.inkvenues.comDescription: 27000 sq. ft. of raw space located within the Guvernment complex, the Koolhaus is a suitable showcase for talent, corporate, private or charitable events. Four bars and VIP lounge.Capacity: Reception-2000 Banquet-700 Classroom— Theatre-1000

7 27000 21’ YesValet

$Yes

M Liberty Grand Entertainment ComplexContact: Robert Rosset, T: 416-542-3789 x.251 25 British Columbia Road, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3Email: [email protected], F: 416-260-0598Web: www.libertygroup.comDescription: Originally constructed in 1926. Made up of three impressive ballrooms and one open concept room, the Liberty Grand is a multi-use special event and conference facility ideal for weddings, social, corporate and charitable functions.Capacity: Reception-4500 Banquet-3500 Classroom-1200 Theatre-1000

6 100000 27’ Yes $ Yes

M LVBContact: Amber Elson, T: 647-296-2100 88 Ossington Avenue, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z4Email: [email protected]: www.lvb88.comDescription: Located in the heart of the Ossington district. Two rooms with separate entrance and private bathrooms make up the space. Lots of windows allows for use both during the day and evening.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet-65 Classroom-80 Theatre-80

2 1000 10’ Yes — —

M Madison Avenue Pub & Madison Manor Boutique HotelContact: Kelly Kane, T: 416-927-1722 x.2512, 1-877-561-704814 Madison Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 2S1Email: [email protected], F: 416-963-4325Web: www.madisonavenuepub.comDescription: Unique setting within heritage buildings located at Bloor and Spadina. Six British style pubs, five fireplaces. Pauper’s Pub on Bloor Street is a restored century old bank second floor with dance floor. Victorian mansion restored to a charming Madison Manor 23-bedroom inn.Capacity: Reception-600 Banquet-300 Classroom—Theatre—

6 1800 12’ — $ —

M MansionContact: Lisa-Marie, T: 416-599-2224 102 Peter Street, Toronto, ON M5V 2G7Email: [email protected], F: 416-599-7843Web: http://www.mansiontoronto.com/Description: Inspired by a dark underground metropolis. Metallic beam infrastructure, 40” LCD screens for visuals. Mezzanine levels and VIP booths offer vantage points from the action of the main dance floor.Capacity: Reception-900 Banquet— Classroom— Theatre—

3 — 14’ Yes $ Yes

M MalaparteContact: Oliver & Bonacini Events T: 1-888-244-6656TIFF Bell Lightbox, 6th Floor, 350 King Street West Toronto, ON M5V 3X5Email: [email protected], F: 416-366-4848Web: http://events.oliverbonacini.com Description: Private event space on the 6th floor at TIFF Bell Lightbox. With floor to ceiling windows, it features a cityscape view. With shimmer and elegance, it is perfect for exclusive private events and star-studded soirées.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet-150 Classroom— Theatre-150

1 2860 20’ NoInt$

YesBH

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M Mariposa Cruises (Seasonal)Contact: Jana ray, T: 416-203-0178 x.220, 1-866-627-7672207 Queens Quay West, Suite 425, Toronto, ON M5J 1A7Email: [email protected], F: 416-203-6627Web: www.mariposacruises.comDescription: Seven uniquely-styled vessels to comfortably accommodate groups from 15 to 500 passengers. Full service, April-December.Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet-400 Classroom-100 Theatre-200

— 12010 8’ —Int$

Yes

M Massey HallContact: Sales and Bookings, T: 416-593-4822 x.304 178 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON M5B 1T7Email: [email protected], F: 416-593-4224Web: www.masseyhall.comDescription: Declared a “heritage” building during the 1970s, Massey Hall remains a vital part of Toronto’s cultural and entertainment scene.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet-120 Classroom— Theatre-2753

3 2000 8’9” —Int$

Yes

M Metro Toronto Convention CentreContact: David Chisholm, T: 416-585-8120 255 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 2W6Email: [email protected], F: 416-585-8198Web: www.mtccc.comDescription: Canada’s # 1 convention and trade show facility, boasting 460,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, 66 meeting rooms, a world class 1,330 seat theatre and two carpeted ballrooms totalling 78,000 sq. ft. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto.Capacity: Reception-5000 Banquet-4470 Classroom-3960 Theatre-5000

66 50000 34’ —Int$

YesBH

M Miller Lash HouseContact: Tammy Tennisco, T: 416-287-7000 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M6A 3E8Email: [email protected] Web: www.millerlashhouse.caDescription: The historic house sits in idyllic seclusion, amid gardens and meadows. Five fireplaces and cathedral ceilings. In the summer, the large tented patio can accommodate groups of up to 350 guests.Capacity: Reception-350 Banquet-240 Classroom-150 Theatre-300

3 3200 20’ Yes Yes Yes

M MuzikContact: Jenny Andonov, T: 416-595-9998 15 Saskatchewan Road, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3Email: [email protected], F: 416-595-5554Web: www.muzikclubs.comDescription: Muzik is the former Horticulture Building at Exhibition Place. Complete interior restoration created a state-of-the-art atmosphere for hosting a myriad of corporate and social events.Capacity: Reception-3000 Banquet-2000 Classroom— Theatre-2500

1 — —Yes$

$ Yes

M NSC Venue - Art Gallery & Event VenueContact: Jasmine Baker, T: 647-933-0193 5 Brock Avenue, Toronto, ON M4P 2H9Email: [email protected], F: 416-964-2402Web: www.nscvenue.comDescription: NSC is a multifunctional gallery and event venue, offering a creative space for your next meeting, shoot, fashion show, media launch or cocktail reception.Capacity: Reception-275 Banquet-150 Classroom-120 Theatre-150

1 2500 16’ No No No

M Oakham HouseContact: Inquiries, T: 416-979-5250 x.2353 63 Gould Street, Toronto, ON M5B 1E9Email: [email protected], F: 416-977-7709Web: www.ryersonstudentcentre.caDescription: A touch of history in the heart of downtown. Accessible to public transit and parking, this stunning historical building is a landmark of the Ryerson University community.Capacity: Reception-170 Banquet-150 Classroom-36 Theatre-170

10 2400 20Yes$

$YesBH

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“there is only one boss: the customer.”-Sam Walton

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M Ontario Heritage CentreContact: Judith Goodwin, T: 416-314-4911 10 Adelaide Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1J3Email: [email protected], F: 416-314-5304Web: www.heritagetrust.on.caDescription: A stunning Edwardian bank, fully restored to its former glory. Eighteen-foot ceilings, Palladian windows, marble staircase and wrought iron railing on the mezzanine all contribute to the charm of The Gallery. Two rooms are available, the Oval or the Birkbeck, perfect for any event.Capacity: Reception-150 Banquet-100 Classroom-70 Theatre-120

3 2200 18’ — $ —

M Ontario Science CentreContact: Facility Rentals, T: 416-696-4606 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, ON M3C 1T3Email: [email protected], F: 416-696-3163Web: www.ontariosciencecentre.caDescription: An inspired choice for your next conference or meeting: an auditorium with stadium seating, lecture theatres, conference room and breakout spaces. Team building programs as unique as the venue.Capacity: Reception-1200 Banquet-600 Classroom-175 Theatre-470

8 3000 13’11” Yes $YesBH

M Opera House, TheContact: Athena Towers, T: 416-466-0313 x.2 735 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON M4M 1H1Email: [email protected], F: 416-466-0917Web: www.theoperahousetoronto.comDescription: Unique and intimate venue still holding all the charm of its original 1900s vaudeville theatre architecture with 12,000 sq. ft. floor and a balcony.Capacity: Reception-800 Banquet-250 Classroom-109 Theatre-250

1 12000 35’ Yes $YesBH

M Palais Royale BallroomContact: Mary Lou Borg, T: 416-533-3553 1601 Lakeshore Boulevard W, Toronto, ON M6K 3C1Email: [email protected], F: 416-533-7600Web: www.palaisroyale.caDescription: Nestled on the shore of Lake Ontario rests the beautifully restored Palais Royale Ballroom. This historic entertainment venue has a magnificent lakeside courtyard. The ballroom can accommodate up to 350 seated guests or 800 at a standing reception.Capacity: Reception-880 Banquet-400 Classroom-150 Theatre-600

7 7000 30’ Yes Yes Yes

M Phoenix Concert Theatre (Liberty Entertainment Group)Contact: Renee Massar, T: 416-542-3789 x.287 410 Sherbourne Street, Toronto, ON M5X 1K2Email: [email protected], F: 416-260-0598Web: www.libertygroup.comDescription: Eclectic grandeur! The Main Room features one of the city’s largest dance floors, leading edge sound and light, five bars including a 50’ marble bar and a 20’ x 30’ stage.Capacity: Reception-700 Banquet— Classroom— Theatre—

2 18000 25’ Yes $ Yes

M Polson Pier/The Sound AcademyContact: Catherine Fowler, T: 416-469-5655 x.204 11 Polson Street, Toronto, ON M5A 1A4Email: [email protected], F: 416-469-5547Web: www.polsonpier.comDescription: Featuring the best view of the Toronto skyline. The multi-venue facility offers over 23,000 sq. ft. of indoor event space, including live performance space (Sound Academy) and spectacular Glass Room, overlooking Lake Ontario. 40,000 sq. ft. lakeside patio features an outdoor oasis pool, rock wall, beach volleyball, mini putt and driving range.Capacity: Reception-2000 Banquet-700 Classroom-320 Theatre-400

4 12000 30’ Yes $ Yes

M Professional Development InstituteContact: Lee Ann Sam Loo, T: 416-342-5592, 1-800-387-299125 York St, Suite 1100, Toronto, ON M5J 2V5Email: [email protected], F: 416-977-6079Web: www.pdi-cma.com/pditorontoDescription: Located in downtown Toronto and attached to Union Station; over 12,000 sq. ft. of meeting space in a LEED Gold Certified Building. 38-seat amphitheatre and three flexible training rooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology and natural light. Adjoining break-out rooms also available.Capacity: Reception-150 Banquet— Classroom-56 Theatre-126

8 2014 11’ — $ —

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M Ricoh ColliseumContact: Nathalie Ollson, T: (416) 263-3916 100 Princes Boulevard, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3Email: [email protected], F: 416-263-3901Web: www.ricohcoliseum.comDescription: Ricoh Coliseum provides Toronto with another fabulous event space. Situated in Exhibition Place and available year round (except event and sports days).Capacity: Reception—Banquet— Classroom— Theatre—

1 — — Yes $ Yes

M Rogers CentreContact: Lesley Lovell, T: 416-341-2222 One Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 1J1Email: [email protected], F: 416-341-3102Web: www.rogerscentre.comDescription: The Rogers Centre is a unique multi-purpose venue that is home to the Toronto Blue Jays (MLB) and Toronto Argonauts (CFL) that can transform to meet the needs of any show or production.Capacity: Reception— Banquet— Classroom-350 Theatre-53000

4 143000 282’ YesInt$

Yes24h

M Rosehill Venue/LoungeContact: Eric Chow, T: 416-923-2232 6 Rosehill Avenue, Toronto, ON M4T 2P7Email: [email protected] Web: www.rosehillevents.caDescription: Stylish venue conveniently located at Yonge and St Clair. Close to subway. Ideal as a wine tasting room or hip event lounge.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet-130 Classroom— Theatre-250

1 2800 — Yes $ —

M Rosewater RoomContact: Stefanie De Koos, T: 416-214-5888 19 Toronto Street, Toronto, ON M5C 2R1Email: [email protected], F: 416-214-2412Web: www.libertygroup.comDescription: The Rosewater Room is a downtown private event space melding classic elegance and modern sophistication right in the heart of the city. Mahogany wood floors, molded layered ceilings, fireplaces, patio, sixteen chandeliers and complete fine dining hospitality.Capacity: Reception-350 Banquet-160 Classroom-140 Theatre-160

6 3000 12’ Yes $ —

M Rostie Group, TheContact: Sacy Semprie, T: 416-214-1840 x.12068 20 Bay Street, 11 and 12 Floors, Toronto, ON M5J 2N8Email: [email protected], F: 416-777-0451Web: www.rostiegroup.comDescription: The Rostie Group provides meeting space for 2 to 150 attendees in a business centre environment. In-house services include administrative, clerical and technical support. Meeting rooms have multimedia presentation tools including audio and videoconferencing.Capacity: Reception-150 Banquet-64 Classroom-90 Theatre-150

4 1400 9’ YesInt$

Yes

M Roy Thomson HallContact: Robin Howarth, T: 416-593-4822 x.304 60 Simcoe Street, Toronto, ON M5J 2H5Email: [email protected], F: 416-593-4224Web: www.roythomson.comDescription: Designed by acclaimed architect Arthur Erickson and celebrated by finishes in Canadian hardwood maple, the spectacular 2,630-seat auditorium is highlighted by two independently-adjustable canopies suspended from the ceiling. Two lobbies and outdoor patio.Capacity: Reception-2000 Banquet-500 Classroom-400 Theatre-2630

5 8000 9’ YesInt$

Yes

M Royal Ontario MuseumContact: Michael Petty, T: 416-586-5561 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6Email: [email protected], F: 416-586-5792Web: www.rom.caDescription: The ROM has distinguished itself as Canada’s premier venue for events and parties. Discerning clientele can celebrate and entertain as nowhere else, amidst the gathered grace, beauty and achievements that have defined humanity and nature throughout the ages.Capacity: Reception-800 Banquet-500 Classroom— Theatre-312

5 7000 — YesInt$

Yes

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e •

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ThePLANNER 41www.theplanner.ca

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M Second City, TheContact: Erin Peirce, T: 416-343-0072, 1-800-263-448551 Mercer Street, Toronto, ON M5V 9G9Email: [email protected], F: 416-343-0034Web: www.secondcity.comDescription: Located in the heart of the entertainment district, The Second City theatre is intimate and friendly, yet state of the art with a beautiful setting and terrific sound. The theatre offers a unique atmosphere for private parties, corporate meetings and events.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet— Classroom-300 Theatre-300

2 2200 25’ — $ —

M Sony Centre for the Performing ArtsContact: Scott North, T: 416-368-6161 x.7139 1 Front Street East, Toronto, ON M5E 1B2Email: [email protected]: www.sonycentre.caDescription: Both auditorium and lobby spaces have been upgraded recently with technical infrastructure, new seats, carpeting and washroom facilities. State-of-the-art lighting, sound, Wi-Fi access throughout the building and the latest in Sony video displays. The venue can be customized to match your event’s theme.Capacity: Reception-2800 Banquet-700 Classroom-500 Theatre-3191

9 — — Yes $ Yes

M Spice RouteContact: Jeff Wojcik, T: 416-869-9444 x.232 499 King Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 1K4Email: [email protected], F: 416-869-0387Web: www.inkvenues.comDescription: The mixture of eclectic Asian decor, mesmerizing music, and distinctive cuisine is the soul of this bistro bar. Available for private events and equipped with a private dining room with AV capabilities.Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet-240 Classroom— Theatre—

3 — — —Valet

$—

M St. Andrew’s Club and Conference CentreContact: Amanda Miller, T: 416-366-4228 x.506 150 King Street West, 27th Floor, Toronto, ON M5H 1J9Email: [email protected], F: 416-366-9347Web: www.standrewsclub.caDescription: St. Andrew’s Club & Conference Centre is a unique integration of luxurious surroundings and modern technology, creating the perfect setting for successful meetings, corporate events and social functions.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet-170 Classroom-110 Theatre-150

22 4300 14’Yes$

Int $

Yes

M St. Lawrence Centre for the ArtsContact: Carol Henderson, T: 416-366-1656 x.260, 1-800-263-448527 Front Street East, Toronto, ON M5E 1B4Email: [email protected], F: 416-947-1387Web: www.stlc.comDescription: Two excellent theatres located in the heart of downtown Toronto. A team of professionals providing production, event management and ticketing services. Suitable for theatre, music, dance, special events, product launches and meetings.Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet-300 Classroom— Theatre-876

6 — — —Int$

Yes

M St. Lawrence Market ComplexContact: Jorge Carvalho, T: 416-392-721992 Front Street East, Toronto, ON M5E 1C4Email: [email protected], F: 416-392-0120Web: www.stlawrencemarket.comDescription: Owned and operated by the City of Toronto, it has two of Ontario’s most sought after venues; the elegant St. Lawrence Hall built in 1851 and the iconic culinary destination St. Lawrence Market.Capacity: Reception-700 Banquet-700 Classroom-800 Theatre-800

2 10000 25’ —Int$

Yes

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e

“most people succeeD because they are DetermineD to. people of meDiocre ability sometimes achieve outstanDing success because they Don’t know when to quit.”

-GeoRGe allen

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M Steam Whistle BrewingContact: Dana Kaluzny, T: 416-362-2337 255 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, ON M5V 3M9Email: [email protected], F: 416-362-9916Web: www.steamwhistle.caDescription: An independent micro-brewery situated in downtown Toronto, in the former John Street Roundhouse. The building is a national heritage site complete with Douglas fir pillars, exposed brick, large multi-paned windows and vaulted ceilings. Exclusive access to an expansive patio and stunning skyline views.Capacity: Reception-750 Banquet-250 Classroom-250 Theatre-250

3 4000 35’ Yes — Yes

M Stirling RoomContact: Elena, T: 416-364-3900 55 Mill Street, Building 36, Toronto, ON M5V 3M9Email: [email protected] Web: www.stirlingroom.comDescription: Stiriling Room takes you back to the Victorian Gothic era. Using the natural beauty of exposed brick, wood beams and pillars as the main attraction, the venue has been complemented with reach and regal tines of purple and yellow to form a cozy ambiance.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet— Classroom— Theatre—

2 1100 14 — — —

M Tattoo Rock ParlourContact: Jeff Wojcik, T: 416-869-9444 x.232 567 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5JV 2B7Email: [email protected], F: 416-869-1444Web: www.inkvenues.comDescription: Tattoo Rock Parlour is perfect for award, presentation and performance events. The lower lounge can act as a separate lounge with its own private entrance. Located in trendy Queen West Village.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet-100 Classroom— Theatre—

2 — — Yes $ Yes

M Texile Museum of CanadaContact: John Huculiak, T: 416-599-5321 x.224455 Centre Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2H5Email: [email protected], F: 416-599-911Web: www.textilemuseum.caDescription: For an intimate and culturally enriching experiencewith value-added options. The Museum’s auditorium seats up to 70 and includes audiovisual equipment. Also, the Museum Lounge is available for receptions of up to 75 guests or dinners for approximately 30 people.Capacity: Reception-75 Banquet-30 Classroom-60 Theatre-60

2 871 8’ Yes $ —

M The GuvernmentContact: Jeff Wojcik, T: 416 869 9444 x.232 137 Queens Quay East, Toronto, ON M5A 3Y5Email: [email protected], F: 416-869-1444Web: www.inkvenues.comDescription: Dynamic space of 22,000 sq. ft. boasting a performance stage complete with digital sound system, a retractable 28 ‘x 9’ and hydraulic DJ both created by Cirque de Soleil to jump your party into full gear. Three bars and a walk-out patio.Capacity: Reception-1600 Banquet-250 Classroom-300 Theatre-574

2 22000 20’ — $YesBH

M The RichmondContact: Hope McFall, T: 416-368-2801 477 Richmond Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 3E7Email: [email protected] Web: www.therichmond.caDescription: The venue choice for companies who are environmentally conscious.Toronto’s first green venue. Product launches, media events, creative offsite days, and fabulous parties.Capacity: Reception-150 Banquet-80 Classroom-60 Theatre-150

1 1350 20’ YesInt$

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e •

“the first law of success is concentration, to benD all the energies to one point, anD to go Directly to that point, looking neither to the right, nor to the left.”

-William mattheWS

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M This Is LondonContact: Jeff Wojcik, T: 416-869-9444 x.232 364 Richmond Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 1X6Email: [email protected], F: 416-869-1444Web: www.inkvenues.comDescription: This downtown 6,000 sq. ft. event venue now showcases two rooms of equal opulence. Deep rich coloured interiors, comfy oversized lounges and dazzling chandeliers drip of vintage decadence and excess.Capacity: Reception-1200 Banquet— Classroom— Theatre—

1 6000 24’ — $ Yes

M TMX Broadcast CentreContact: Facility Rentals, T: 416-947-7788, 1-800-729-5556130 King Street West, Toronto, ON M5X 1J2Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.tmx.com/en/news_events/broadcast_centre/Description: In the heart of the financial district, the TMX Broadcast Centre is a high-tech and dynamic environment, ideal for your event. Simplified planning with state-of-the-art, all-inclusive AV and communications technology.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet-70 Classroom-64 Theatre-100

2 1600 25’ —Int$

M Toronto Board of TradeContact: Oliver & Bonacini Events T: 1-888-244-6656First Canadian Place, Suite 350, 77 Adelaide St. West Toronto, ON M5X 1C1Email: [email protected], F: 416-366-8446Web: http://events.oliverbonacini.com Description: Offers one of the most unique collections of facilities in Toronto for dining, meetings and social occasions.Capacity: Reception-400 Banquet-320 Classroom-250 Theatre-350

13 5525 14’ YesInt/Ext

$YesBH

M Toronto Botanical GardenContact: Sherri Johnson, T: 416-397-1349 777 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, ON M3C 1P2Email: [email protected], F: 416-397-1354Web: www.torontobotanicalgarden.caDescription: Unique, award-winning and eco-friendly event spaces. Indoor flows into outdoor courtyards with elegant gardens and tranquil water features.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet-240 Classroom-150 Theatre-350

7 3400 20’ Yes $YesBH

M Tryst Night ClubContact: Anita Hrasic, T: 416-528-4302 82 Peter Street, Toronto, ON M5V 2G5Email: [email protected], F: 416-921-1938Web: www.trysttoronto.comDescription: Tryst is a sleek and seductive meeting place adorned with opulence and revealing the unexpected. The club features two double-height parlours – each evoking a different feel. The street-facing lounge has 20’ ceilings.Capacity: Reception-700 Banquet— Classroom— Theatre—

3 700 12’ — $ Yes

M University Club of TorontoContact: Event Coordinator, T: 416-597-1336 380 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1R6Email: [email protected], F: 416-597-2994Web: www.universitycluboftoronto.comDescription: The University Club provides elegant ambiance and superb service throughout its attractive club house, offering formal and casual dining areas in addition to a number of private function rooms.Capacity: Reception-150 Banquet-120 Classroom-100 Theatre-120

5 2250 12’ — $ —

M Woodbine Race TrackContact: Joseph Araujo, T: 416-675-7223, 1-888-675-7223555 Rexdale Boulevard, Toronto, ON M9W 5L2Email: [email protected], F: 416-213-2123Web: http://www.hostyourevent.com/Woodbine/EventRooms/Pages/Gallery.aspxDescription: Woodbine features conference, meeting and dining facilities catering to groups of 20 to 400 people. Offering group lunch and dinner packages and a variety of entertainment options including horse racing.Capacity: Reception— Banquet-400 Classroom- Theatre-175

4 2310 — Yes Yes Yes

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e

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44 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

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R Auberge du PommierContact: Oliver & Bonacini Events T: 1-888-244-66564150 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M2P 2C6Email: [email protected], F: 416-366-4848Web: http://events.oliverbonacini.com Description: Beautiful French restaurant in the north end, close to the 401. The original jewel in the Oliver & Bonacini’s crown.Capacity: Sophie Room – 36, Oscar Room – 48, Full Restaurant Buyout - 140

2 — — —Int $

R Biff’s BistroContact: Oliver & Bonacini Events T: 1-888-244-66564 Front Street East, Toronto, ON M5E 1G4E: [email protected], F: 416-366-4848Web: http://events.oliverbonacini.com Description: 1930s Paris meets Modern London Cool. Beautifully-appointed event spaces. Seasonal patio for seated or standing receptions.Seated Capacity: Grey Room – 12, Red Room – 36, Seasonal Patio – 26, Semi-Private Gallery – 30, Buyout - 130

2 — — NoInt$

YesBH

R Boiler House, TheContact: Event Coordinator, T: 416-203-2363 18 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4Email: [email protected], F: 416-203-9393Web: www.boilerhouse.caDescription: Original architectural features; built in bars. Critically acclaimed chefs, professional events team, music director, patios, private rooms, custom menus, unique ambience. Catering to all budgets and groups from 2 to 1000.Capacity: Reception-1000 Banquet-250 Classroom-150 Theatre-200

1 1600 12’ Yes $ Yes

R BymarkContact: General Manager, T: 416-777-1144 66 Wellington Street West, Toronto, ON M5K 1J3Email: [email protected], F: 416-777-1145Web: http://bymark.mcewangroup.ca/Description: Bymark demonstrates a contemporary touch with core of classic cuisine matched by an exensive wine list.Capacity: Reception-90 Banquet-45 Classroom— Theatre—

3 — — —Int $

R CanoeContact: Oliver & Bonacini Events T: 1-888-244-665654th Floor, TD Bank Tower, 66 Wellington Street West, Toronto, ON M5K 1H6Email: [email protected], F: 416-366-4848Web: http://events.oliverbonacini.com Description: Breathtaking location and views. Clean elegant design. Restaurant available on Saturdays and Sundays only for private functions. Private room available during the week for 64 seated and 100 for cocktails.Seated Capacity: West Room – 24, East Room 40, Combined Rooms – 64, Buyout - 150

2 — — NoInt$

R Far NienteContact: Amber Podrats, T: 416-214-9922187 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5L 1G5Email: [email protected] , F : 416-214-1895Web: http://farnienterestaurant.com/Description: Among the best of Toronto cuisine. Warm and understated, yet elegant surroundings. Drawing inspiration from the freshest, most seasonal ingredients available, Far Niente combines the city’s most innovative and authentic dishes.Capacity: Reception-150 Banquet-150 Classroom— Theatre—

1 — 18’ —Int$

YesBH

R JumpContact: Oliver & Bonacini Events T: 1-888-244-6656Commerce Court East, 18 Wellington Street West, Toronto, ON M5L 1G4Email: [email protected], F: 416-366-4848Web: http://events.oliverbonacini.com Description: Big bold American style bistro, combining classic New York style with sleek modern eclecticism. Seasonal patio for standing receptions.Seated Capacity: White Room – 16, Semi-Private South – 30, Semi-Private North – 40, Seasonal Patio – 40 standing reception, Buyout - 160

3 — — NoInt$

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e •

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R KiContact: Michael Tremblay, T: 416-308-5888181 Bay Street, Brookfield Place, Toronto, ON M5J 2T3Email: [email protected] Web: www.kijapanese.comDescription: Elegant and calm interior space with several private areas. Beautiful 60 ft. granite bar is the focus point of the dining room. A modern Japanese-style tapas approach to the menu: the sharing aspect always leads to a wonderful and different experience.Capacity: Reception-35 Banquet-28 Classroom— Theatre—

— — — —Int$

R Loose Moose Tap & Grill, TheContact: Heather Chell, T: 416-977-8840 146 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5J 2G5Email: [email protected], F: 416-977-7818Web: www.theloosemoose.caDescription: Fun, contemporary and highly energized environment with eclectic architectural features. Adaptable space.Capacity: Reception-850 Banquet-850 Classroom— Theatre-850

2 20000 18’ — $ Yes

R LumaContact: Oliver & Bonacini Events, T: 1-888-244-6656TIFF Bell Lightbox, 2nd Floor, 350 King Street West, Reitman Square, Toronto, ON M5V 3X5Email: [email protected], F: 416-366-4848Web: http://events.oliverbonacini.com Description: Paying homage to Toronto’s rich, cultural landscape, Luma’s menu showcases global and Canadian artisanal cuisine featuring the finest local and regional ingredients. Imaginative cooking is the perfect complement to Luma’s warm, inviting private room, designed with rich woods, leather and stone.Seated Capacity: Private Dining Room – 12, Main Dining Room Groups – 40, Seasonal Patio – 30 standing reception

1 — 8’ NoInt/Ext

$Yes

R MaroContact: Shantel Clarke, T: 416-361-1880 x.225 135 Liberty Street, Toronto, ON M6K 1Y7Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.uniqlifestyle.com/maro/Description: Warm Euro-Asian fusion design, adaptable space for all types of events.Capacity: Reception-800 Banquet-80 Classroom— Theatre-160

1 12500 — Yes $YesBH

R One RestaurantContact: Kate Hobson, T: 416-961-9600 x.30, 1-866-473-6301118 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1C2Email: [email protected], F: 416-961-9611Web: http://www.onehazelton.com/Description: In order to fulfill Yabu Pushelberg’s request for the highest quality in materials, ‘ONE’ at The Hazelton Hotel is surrounded with rich wood flooring, smoked glass, beautiful cowhide, mirror paneling, and precious boldly striped tiger-eye onyx.Capacity: Reception-120 Banquet-70 Classroom— Theatre-120

3 1740 — —Int $Valet

YesBH

R PangaeaContact: Amelia Sheffield, T: 416-920-2323 1221 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5R 3P5Email: [email protected] Web: www.pangaearestaurant.comDescription: Located in the Museum District, close to several hotels and shopping areas. Two-tiered, high ceiling restaurant with two private dining rooms offering simple, understated elegance.Capacity: Reception-350 Banquet-150 Classroom— Theatre—

2 2500 20’ — $ Yes

R 180 Panorama - 51st Floor Restaurant & PatioContact: Panorama Events, T: 416-964-1162 x.3455 Bloor Street West, 51st Floor, Toronto, ON M4W 1A5Email: [email protected], F: 416-964-2402Web: http://www.panoramalounge.com/Description: Featuring Canada’s highest tented patios, a fully redesigned main room with contemporary decor. VIP Room also available for smaller private groups.Capacity: Reception-300 Banquet— Classroom— Theatre—

1 — — —Int$

YesBH

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e

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46 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

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R SassafrazContact: Dennette Schott, T: 416-964-2222 100 Cumberland Street, Toronto, ON M5R 1A6Email: [email protected], F: 416-964-2402Web: www.sassafraz.caDescription: Located in the heart of the Yorkville district, Sassafraz offers a unique and elegant atmosphere for private and corporate events.Capacity: Reception-500 Banquet-120 Classroom— Theatre—

3 1500 15` —Int$

R Southern AccentContact: Frances Wood, T: 416-536-3211 595 Markham Street, Toronto, ON M6G 2L7Email: [email protected], F: 416-536-3548Web: http://southernaccent.com/Description: West of Yorkville at Bathurst & Bloor. Victorian setting, recalling a New Orleans style and menu. Perfect for take-over for up to 175 guests. Live entertainment options and interactive food stations offer a unique house party exprience.Capacity: Reception-70 Banquet-45 Classroom-55 Theatre-60

1 — 12’ YesInt $

R SplendidoContact: Carlo Catallo, T: 416-929-7788 88 Harbord Street, Toronto, ON M5S 1G5Email: [email protected], F: 416-929-3501Web: www.splendido.caDescription: Elegant design and Italian-inspired fixtures and furniture. Located off the beaten track close to Little Italy. Perfect venue for elite groups.Capacity: Reception-120 Banquet-80 Classroom-80 Theatre-60

1 3000 12’Yes$

Valet$

R Sultan’s Tent and Café MarocContact: Patrick McCraney, T: 416-961-0601 49 Front Street East, Toronto, ON M6J 1M7Email: [email protected], F: 416-961-7744Web: www.thesultanstent.comDescription: A hidden gem in the heart of the lower downtown core. Close to major highways and VIA/GO stations, theatres and hotels. Eclectic design with booth areas which can be curtained off. Adaptable space, excellent food and original entertainment.Capacity: Reception-225 Banquet-170 Classroom-60 Theatre-60

1 4000 20’ Yes $ Yes

R Tappo Restaurant and Wine BarContact: Rene M. Canning, T: 647-430-111155 Mill Street, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4Email: [email protected], F: 647-430-1206Web: www.tappo.caDescription: Beautifully appointed, situated in the heart of the Distillery District, multifunctional space. Seasonal outdoor patio may be tented at an additional cost.Capacity: Reception-150 Banquet-72 Classroom- Theatre-110

— 5000 17’ — $YesBH

R Vertical RestaurantContact: Ashley Bell, T: 416-214-2252 100 King Street West, Toronto, ON M5 1E1Email: [email protected] Web: www.verticalrestaurant.caDescription: Situated in the heart of Toronto, seasonal menu inspired by the diverse regions of Italy using locally sourced ingredients. Close to all major hotels and venues. Features 150-seat seasonal patio. Available for buy-outs.Capacity: Reception-200 Banquet-100 Classroom-100 Theatre-80

3 1500 16’ — $YesBH

T o r o n T o v e n u e g u i d e •

“in organizations, real power anD energy is generateD through relationships. the patterns of relationships anD the capacities to form them are more important than tasks, functions, roles anD positions.”

-maRGaRet Wheatly, manaGement ConSultant

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ThePLANNER 47www.theplanner.ca

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ON 3L Sound & Lighting Ltd. / 3L Productions Inc.396 Watline Avenue, Mississauga, ON L4Z 1X2T: 905-238-8949, 1-800-567-7654, F: 905-238-3546Contact: Peter Latini, ManagerEmail: [email protected] Web: www.3lsound.com

21

ON Ashen White976 Meyerside Drive, Mississauga, ON L5T 1R9T: 905-795-0888Contact: Cam ButlerEmail: [email protected] Web: www.ashenwhite.com

21

ON Audio Visual Ventures Inc.200 Evans Avenue, Unit 7, Toronto, ON M8Z 1J7T: 416-251-0079, F: 416-251-0544 Contact: Stephen Bullock, PartnerEmail: [email protected] Web: www.audiovisualventures.com

20

ON AV-CANADA1655 Queensway East, Unit 2, Mississauga, ON L4X 2Z5T: 905-566-5500 x.222, 1-866-667-2345, F: 905-566-5511 Contact: Danny Dobriansky, Vice-President Sales & MarketingEmail: [email protected] Web: www.av-canada.ca

21

ON AVW-TELAV Audio Visual Solutions2365 Matheson Boulevard East., Mississauga ON  L4W 5B3T: 905-366-9200, 1-800-868-6886, F: 905-366-0274 Contact: Heidi C. Welker, Vice-President MarketingEmail: [email protected]

41

ON CCR Solutions100A Belfield Road, Toronto, ON M9W 1G1T: 416-675-7502Contact: Bill Guest, PresidentEmail: [email protected] Web: www.ccrsolutions.com

15

ON Century Audio Visual1773 Mattawa Avenue, Mississauga, ON L4X 1K5T: 905-275-6010Contact: Colin Tyler, PresidentEmail: [email protected] Web: www.centuryav.com

14

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ON Frischkorn Audio Visual2440 Tedlo Street, Mississauga, ON L5A 3V3T: 905-281-8700, 1-888-287-3687 F: 905-281-8701 Contact: Robert Varga, Vice-PresidentEmail: [email protected] Web: www.frischkornav.com

36

ON Mediaco The Presentation Company6 Currity Avenue, Toronto, ON M4B 1X2T: 416-405-9797 x.252, F: 416-405-9889 Contact: Simon Hancock, OwnEmail: [email protected] Web: www.mediaco.ca

21

ON MVI-MultiVision Inc.120 McLevin Avenue, Unit 3, Toronto, ON M1B 3E9T: 416-449-1080, 1-800-563-5902Contact: Chris Parry, Vice-President Email: [email protected] Web: mvidisplay.com

36

ON Ruoff & Company1303 Kamato Rd., Mississauga, ON L4W 2M2T: 905-629-1520, F: 905-629-1253 Contact: Dietmar Ruoff, PresidentEmail: [email protected] Web: www.ruoff.ca

14

ON Stage-It Inc.3425 Laird Rd, Unit 5, Mississauga, ON L5L 5R8T: 905-608-1758, 1-877-782-4348, F: 905-608-8142 Contact: Don Recourt, PresidentEmail: [email protected] Web: www.stageitinc.com

15

ON Stagevision Inc.5610 McAdam Rd., Mississauga, ON L4Z 1P1T: 905-890-8200,1-877-572-8200, F: 905-890-8316 Contact: Stewart Hadden, Vice-Presidentmail: [email protected] Web: stagevision.com

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ON Westbury National Show Systems772 Warden Ave., Toronto, ON M1L 4T7T: 416-752-1371, F: 416-752-1382Contact: Michael Jarvis, MarketingEmail: [email protected] Web: www.westbury.com

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48 ThePLANNER Volume 10, No. 6

This year, the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre is introducing solar panels, which will generate power for meet-ings and conventions – and generate

some attention for the city too, which receives more sunshine hours annually than any other major Canadian city. There was therefore an incredible opportunity to transform this sun-shine into a useable source of power. The for-ward thinking facility is currently installing 10kw solar panels on the North Building roof, which will harness energy from the sun and ultimately lower the XTCC’s carbon footprint.

The solar panels will reduce our draw on the provincial grid by 14,000 kilowatt hours per year “say s Heather Lundy, Director of Marketing

Calgary TELUS Convention Centre. The energy generated from the panels will feed into the existing electrical distribution system in the North Building, offsetting the emissions by 11 tonnes, which is equivalent to two cars being taken off the streets. In fact, the solar panels could generate enough energy for two average households for an entire year, who on average, consume 600Kwh per month.

The installation is expected to be completed by the end of the summer. Once it is up and running for a few weeks, the solar panels will be viewable in real time online.

Images can be found at www.calgary-convention.com/facility/north-building/photo-gallery-north

Hotel industry outlookThe hotel industry outlook according to TravelClick for the top 25 North America markets is showing an increase of 5.1 per-cent in committed occupancy for the calen-dar year August 2012 – July 2013 based on group commitments and individual reserva-tions on the books as of August 5, 2012 compared to the same time last year.  This is driven by the group segment with an increase in room nights committed up 4.6 percent.   The transient segment demand is also showing a strong increase, up 6.2 per-cent compared to the same time last year.  The average daily rate (ADR) continues to show steady growth, up 4.5 percent over the same time last year.For the third quarter of 2012, overall commit-ted occupancy is up 2.0 percent year-over-year for the top 25 markets.  Committed occupancy for the group segment is up 3.1 percent and the transient segment demand is up 1.4 percent compared to a year ago.   Average daily rate for the third quarter shows growth up 4.2 percent compared to the same time last year.  Business segment ADR, which includes weekday transient negotiated and transient retail segments, is up 4.4 percent.  Leisure segment ADR, which includes transient discount and transi-ent qualified segments, is up 5.1 percent.

TECHIt used to be that people would read in the bath, but all these new hotels seem to have only showers and the new generation reads only tablets But now you can combine both. Your tablet can now go with you for a walk in the rain. Korean phone make Pantech has developed the Element, tablet. The device, which operates on Google’s Android sheet made of polycarbonate. The Element, which has a smaller display than the iPad, weighs about a pound. Pantech says the touch screen, speaker, and microphone are all waterproof, which means you can spill without causing damage. But because the Element’s screen responds to human touch, it won’t work if your hands are covered with gloves – or submerged in liquid. So while you can use this tablet in the tub, don’t try swiping or typing underwater.

f o r y o u r i n f o

calgary Telus convenTion cenTreg o e s s o l a r

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