Colorado Meetings + Events Spring 2019

COLORADO ILLINOIS MEETINGS MEETINGS+ +EVENTS EVENTS////SPRING SPRING2011 2019

MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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2019

BEST OF 2019 // HALL OF FAME

Best of

2019 FEATURING

25 categories including BEST EVENT DÉCOR/FLORIST, CATERER, MEETING/EVENT PLANNING COMPANY, SPECIALTY RENTALS, ENTERTAINMENT AGENCY & MORE (PAGE 33)

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

Bruce Horii plus six industry veterans and rising stars join the COM+E Hall of Fame (42)

Host i n g a G r eat C on ve n t i on No. 7

a s eri es of helpful tips

Denver, Colorado

DON’T MISS YOUR FLIGHT.

nearly 70 breweries within city limits 300 days of sunshine SUN

the a line train from airport to downtown

With amazing year-round weather and more breweries than any other city in America, The Mile High City is waiting to inspire your team to new heights.

Discover why Denver’s beer scene is overflowing at CONVENTIONSELEVATED.COM

SUN

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Meetings in Another Altitude Many begin their days early with energizing general sessions and breakout meetings, but end early so that their attendees can experience all that is Snowmass Village. Summer and fall bring long days and mild temperatures that are perfect for hiking up wildflower trails, or heading down on a mountain bike, or getting your groove on at an outdoor concert. Whether your speed is taking a balloon ride or whitewater rafting, we have it here in Snowmass Village. Book a meeting in August, September or October 2019, 2020 or 2021 and choose from the following concessions: 20-50 Total RN: Pick from 3 of the below concessions 51-100 Total RN: Pick from 4 of the below concessions 101+ RN: Pick from 5 of the below concessions • 14 day cut-off date • Complimentary one-hour reception of beer, wine and 3 passed hors d’oeuvres • $5 rebate per consumed room night • Two complimentary one-hour massages or facials • Complimentary Resort Fee • 50% allowable attrition reduction (Group must provide hotel with 2 years pickup history)

• Complimentary Meeting Space with Banquet Food and Beverage minimum attained (to be determined by sales manager based on room nights and space needed) • Gift Certificate for a one-night stay with breakfast for two (value of $400)

For more info contact the Resort Sales Office at 970 923 8214 or email nicole.kubitza@westinsnowmass.com

©2018 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Westin and their logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

For full terms and conditions, visit westin.com/snowmass. Contract needs to be signed by June 30, 2019.

THE WESTIN SNOWMASS

100 Elbert Lane PO Box 5009 Snowmass Village, CO 81615 T +1 970 923 8200 F +1 970 923 8205 westin.com/snowmass

Spring 2019 COLORADO MEETINGS + EVENTS MAGAZINE: IN THIS ISSUE

Halcyon Gear Garage

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DEPARTMENTS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 22 TABLESCAPE Used and vintage accessories like globes, airplanes, stickers and suitcases mesh with photos and bright colors for charming table décor.

24 VENUE REPORT For more than a century, Colorado’s iconic hotels have hosted presidents, royalty, prima donnas and groups.

By Shelly Steig

28 DESTINATION Ideally situated at the foot of the Rockies, Boulder is perfect for groups seeking something different. By Eric Peterson 72 PEOPLE PROFILE Franny Starkey reflects on the switch from a position at the White House to COO of her brother’s company.

By Jenna Barbari

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FEATURES

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42

Best of 2019

Hall of Fame

Cheers to 13 years of recognizing Colorado’s stellar venues, suppliers, planners and more. By Julie Scheff

Familiar faces and new players in the industry make up this year’s stellar cast of inductees. By Beth Buehler

P H O T O S : S T U D I O J K ; H A L C YO N , A C H E R R Y C R E E K H O T E L

By Emma Franke

SO MANY WAYS TO MEET, ALL IN

P H O T O S : S T U D I O J K ; H A L C YO N , A C H E R R Y C R E E K H O T E L

ONE MAGNIFICENT PLACE.

Only The Broadmoor offers so many distinct venues and experiences of all sizes and types. From impressive trade shows to executive dinners. From grand reception halls to eclectic lakeside cocktails at sunset. From state-of-the-art meeting rooms to secluded brainstorming sessions at Cloud Camp 3,000 feet above the main campus. You’ll find all of it and more within our 185,000 square feet of meeting space, connected by a thread of quality, service and meticulous attention to detail. Visit broadmoor.com and contact us today to explore the wonderful possibilities.

855.696.5804

BROADMOOR.COM

1 LAKE AVENUE, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80906 CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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Spring

2019 Get the recipe for The Stinger on page 18

R Space

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MEETING NOTES

INDUSTRY UPDATE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

11 SUSTAINABLE SWAG Keep your next bash green with these fresh, fun and eco-friendly products.

56 INFOGRAPHIC Find out how restaurant and food service operators are integrating sustainability practices into daily business operations.

50 EVENT VENUE SHOWCASE Colorado excels in providing distinct venues that planners and groups love.

By Megan Gosch

12 TIPS FROM A PRO How to strategically use scent to enhance guest experience. By Tiffany Rose Goodyear

44

Distillery, Durango

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MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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ON THE COVER

2019

Bruce Horii joins the 2019 Hall of Fame as this year’s Lifetime Achievement honoree.

Best of

2019 FEATURING

25 categories including BEST EVENT DÉCOR/FLORIST, CATERER, MEETING/EVENT PLANNING COMPANY, SPECIALTY RENTALS, ENTERTAINMENT AGENCY & MORE (PAGE 33)

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

18 SIGNATURE DRINK The Stinger, courtesy of Honey House

70 SNAPSHOTS MIC of Colorado’s Serving Up Hope; Destination Colorado Front Range Trade Show

BEST OF 2019 // HALL OF FAME

By Victoria Rosenblatt

58 REGIONAL NEWS Venues, people, association news and more.

COLORADO ILLINOIS MEETINGS MEETINGS+ +EVENTS EVENTS////SPRING SPRING2011 2019

14 DESIGN SECRETS Four pillars of corporate event design demonstrate why meaningful décor is so much more than tablecloths.

Research courtesy National Restaurant Association

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE

Bruce Horii plus six industry veterans and rising stars join the COM+E Hall of Fame (42)

Photo by Tate Carlson

P H O T O S : C R E S T E D B U T T E M O U N TA I N R E S O R T ; H O N E Y H O U S E D I S T I L L E R Y ; R S PA C E

Crested Butte Mountain Resort

P H O T O S : C R E S T E D B U T T E M O U N TA I N R E S O R T ; H O N E Y H O U S E D I S T I L L E R Y ; R S PA C E

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SPRING 2019

What’s the best swag you’ve received at an event?

”

Weddings / Birthdays Work Retreats / Company Parties Family Reunions And More

13714 POUDRE CANYON HWY BELLVUE, CO 80512 (888)THE-MISH INFO@THEMISHAWAKA.COM For hours of operation and full concert calendar visit:

WWW.THEMISHAWAKA.COM ★

EDITOR

Portable phone charger for two devices

Picturesque riverside restaurant and a beautiful setting for your:

+ co.meetingsmags.com

MANAGING EDITOR SENIOR EDITOR DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Beth Buehler

Buffs, gloves, hats & stainless steel straw kit for Snowmass base village opening

Morgan Halaska Megan Gosch Julianna Fazio Emma Franke, Tiffany Rose Goodyear, Eric Peterson, Victoria Rosenblatt, Julie Scheff, Shelly Steig Jenna Barbari, Taylor Hafner, Kendall Van Horne

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Robin Berhost, Biscuits & Berries • Tiffany Carson, CMP, Colorado Society of CPAs Justin Clark, Visit Aurora • Candace Duran, Halcyon • Heather Gibson, Marriott International • Kevin Hedican, Hermes Worldwide, Inc. Hugo Hellberg, CMM, CMP, H2 Performance, EventWaves • Bill Hume, Omni Interlocken Resort • Jason Lusk, CMP, VISIT DENVER • Amanda Nelson, AKN Events • Sharon Schoeffield, Copper Mountain Resort • Sidney Stoper, J&S Audio Visual • Terri Taylor, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP • Cynthia Vannucci, Ph.D., CHME, CHSP, Metropolitan State University of Denver DESIGN DIRECTOR ART DIRECTORS

Flask bangle bracelet

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR PROJECT COORDINATORS CIRCULATION DIRECTOR SUBSCRIPTION MARKETING SPECIALIST

Courtney Nielsen Traci Zellmann, Taylor Severson Dianne Talmage Brittni Dye, Alex Kotlarek Jeremy Wieland Emily O’Connell

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & EVENTS MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR

Lauren Madeja Jen McIlvaine

CREDIT MANAGER ACCOUNTANT

April McCauley Katie Bodin

WEB DEVELOPMENT MANAGER WEB ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Sandy Powell Angela Beissel

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER– NATIONAL SALES

VIP pack at SXSW 2007: About 3 dozen CDs of music and a voodoo doll

Bob Haddad 303.617.0548 bob.haddad@tigeroak.com

California Meetings + Events • 303.617.0548 Illinois Meetings + Events • 312.755.1133 Michigan Meetings + Events • 586.416.4195 Minnesota Meetings + Events • 612.787.3148 Mountain Meetings • 303.617.0548 | 425.429.8200 Northeast Meetings + Events • 586.416.4195 Northwest Meetings + Events • 425.429.8200 Texas Meetings + Events • 469.264.7657 Reprints: For high-quality reprints of 500 or more call 1-800-637-0334 or email reprints@tigeroak.com.

For address changes, ordering single copies, cancellations, or general questions about your subscription please contact customer service at 1-800-637-0334 or customerservice@tigeroak.com Colorado Meetings + Events accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork; they will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

TI G E R OAK M E D I A

Catering by The Inventing Room brings an entertainment value to your guests’ food experiences by creating magical & impossible treats right in front of their eyes.

Using ingredients like liquid nitrogen & techniques like compression, we create culinary creations that amaze your imagination & tastebuds.

Branded “Food & Drink Entertainment,” culinary wizard Chef Ian Kleinman & his staff produce events that are unforgettably unique.

inventing-room.com 303.885.2802 6

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FOUNDER & CEO PRESIDENT CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER VICE PRESIDENT OF DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

R. Craig Bednar Tony Bednar Barb Steinhauser Susan Isay Jim Younger

900 South Third St., Minneapolis, MN 55415 Phone: 612.548.3180 Fax: 612.548.3181 Published quarterly Colorado Meetings + Events, Spring 2019 © 2019 Tiger Oak Media. All rights reserved.

Printed in the U.S.A.

TOP 10 REASONS TO CHOOSE

COLORADO

SPRINGS Colorado Springs is a year-round destination boasting mild temperatures, over 300 days of endless blue skies and stunning natural scenery. Discover first-tier amenities, an array of properties and venues along with so much more.

1 2 3 4 5

It’s Colorado Springs - The beautiful backdrops and abundance of things to do are sure to increase attendance.

Complimentary services - From personalized site visits to attendee items, VCOS offers award-winning guidance.

Climate - Mild year-round climate and sunshine create the perfect environment, even in off-season.

Fantastic accommodatins - Over 14,500 city-wide rooms and more than 450,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.

Easy access - The convenient Colorado Springs Airport offers over 65 arrivals and departures daily.

PLAN YOUR MEETING

COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

6 7 8 9 10

One-stop - VCOS is a single source for all your event planning needs during the planning process.

Personalization - Enjoy hands-on service through each step of the selection and planning process.

Support system - Enlist assistance for services, activities and other event details when the time is right.

Expertise - Connect with a seasoned staff intimately familiar with the choices in the area.

Promotion - Tap into destination assets, relationships, PR support, welcome bags and other tools.

Kathy Reak, Senior Director of Convention Sales

Kathy@VisitCOS.com | Direct: 719-685-7632

EDITOR'S LETTER

Keeping It Fresh & Interesting Curling & Cocktails at Vail Marriott Mountain Resort

Beth Buehler, editor CONTACT ME AT BETH.BUEHLER@TIGEROAK.COM

A BIG CONGRATULATIONS to the Colorado Meetings + Events Best of 2019 winners in 25 different categories and the seven standout professionals who are being inducted into the magazine’s Hall of Fame. It’s always fun to celebrate accomplishments and network while also showcasing something new, and the recently introduced Ironworks used in combination with sister property Mile High Station fit the bill for 2019. Also, thank you to our partners and sponsors!

Bruce Horii, our lifetime achievement recipient, served on one of my early editorial advisory boards more than a decade ago, and I am happy to see him recognized for his dedication to the meetings and events industry as a worker bee and volunteer leader. He talks about how clients and colleagues have become lifelong friends, and I couldn’t agree more.

Colorado also continues to open new hotels of interest to groups, and I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to experience several while traveling around the state. I’ve been a guest on the very first night of business for both the Limelight Snowmass in December and The Jacquard Hotel & Rooftop in Denver’s Cherry Creek North district in October and more recently was part of a media group experiencing the new Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in January, less than a month after launching. What stands out most is that each of these properties are distinct and have Colorado weaved in the décor, food and beverage programs and outlets, and activities offered. Many existing hotels are keeping up with the new competition through fabulous renovations and creative programming that we feature in the Industry Update section of each issue.

Airports are also working hard to stay current and innovative. Since November, flights have landed me in the Denver, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, Las Vegas, Columbus, Ohio, and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico airports. There are some you don’t mind having a few hours to explore like the Minneapolis airport, and I look forward to seeing how the renovations underway at Denver International Airport turn out as it has become the sixth busiest in the nation. Also don’t forget to use regional airports, as nothing beats getting in and out of smaller airports quickly and being near outlying destinations.

As we celebrate another Colorado Meetings Week with the Colorado M+E Best of 2019 readers’ choice awards on March 11 and the Meetings Industry Council (MIC) of Colorado Educational Conference & Trade Show on March 12-13, I want to applaud an industry that works so well together in our state and stays at the forefront to keep it fresh and interesting from all angles. Make the most of 2019!

Find, Friend, Follow

Find us online at co.meetingsmags.com, and make sure to “like” us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram to stay in the loop between issues. /COMEE TINGSMAGS

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@COMEE TINGSMAGS

/MEE TINGSMAGS

/MEE TINGSE VENTSMAGS

we call this organic brainstorming.

retreat to a new way of hosting your meeting.

Your Team will connect in a unique way at Devil’s Thumb Ranch. Come to where the ideas flow as freely as the river and colleagues become friends in the most inspired of settings.

Elevate your group . Book your meeting today at Devil’s Thumb Ranch.

Located 15 minutes from Winter Park, CO | (970) 726-3779 | devilsthumbranch.com

Distinctive DISTINCTIVE Spaces &LIMITLESS Limitless SPACES& Adventure ADVENTURE

Surrounded by the splendor of the majestic Colorado Rockies, Surrounded by the splendor of the majestic Colorado Rockies, Viceroy Snowmass offers more than 9,000 square feet Viceroy Snowmass offers more than 9,000 square feet of striking indoor and outdoor options for any size event of of striking indoor and outdoor options for any size event or celebration–all wrapped in nature’s grandeur with year-round celebration—all wrapped in nature’s grandeur with year-round activities and unparalleled amenities. activities and unparalleled amenities.

viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/snowmass/meetings_and_events www.viceroysnowmass.com

130 130WOOD WOODROAD ROAD SNOWMASS SNOWMASSVILLAGE VILLAGE COLORADO COLORADO

SALES 9238025 8024 SALES DEPARTMENT DEPARTMENT 970 970 923

PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

Meeting Notes TIPS FROM A PRO

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DESIGN SECRETS

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SIGNATURE DRINK 18

ACTIVITIES

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Sustainable SWAG

Three eco-friendly products offer a fresh take on common event goodies.

The Amazing Pasta Straw

With the global spread of plastic straw bans, plenty of plastic-free alternatives have hit the mainstream. The Amazing Pasta Straw, made simply from wheat and water, is completely biodegradable (that is, if it isn’t eaten). Unlike plastic straws, these won’t break down midsip and are free from dyes and glues. Planners can test the straws with a sample pack or buy in bulk for large meetings and events. pastastraws.org

Amborella Organics Lollipops

These lollipops are as eye-catching as they are environmentally friendly. The hand-poured organic pops are made from cane sugar and edible herbs and flowers such as lavender, hibiscus and mint for a refreshing burst of flavor and striking visual. But it’s Amborella’s patented seed-bearing technology that makes these sweet treats a gift that keeps on giving. After enjoying a lollipop, simply plant the biodegradable stem and wait for a seedling to sprout.; seeds correspond to each pop flavor. While Amborella offers unique options like Peach & Marigold or Sage & Marshmallow, Champagne & Roses has become a crowd favorite for events. Planners can even work with Amborella to craft cobranding opportunities and custom flavors. amborellaorganics.com

P H OTO S : J O E L S C H N E L L

Dust City Designs Wood Stickers

Made from FSC-certified wood, Wood Stickers are etched, cut and printed by lasers and printers, then sanded and finished by hand. Unlike vinyl stickers, the wood decals are fully biodegradable, helping to eliminate micro-plastic pollution. With more than 2,500 stock designs and the ability to create custom stickers, planners can join companies like Whole Foods and Instagram in creating guilt-free branded swag. woodstickers.com — Megan Gosch

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

TIPS FROM A PRO»

SCENTS MAKE SENSE How to strategically use scent to enhance guest experience.

BY T I F FA N Y ROSE G O ODY E A R

AS EVENT PROFESSIONALS, we are constantly thinking about how to best stimulate our guests’ senses in order to create the most memorable and greatest impact and to reach event goals, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, fundraiser or social gathering. Many of us focus on only three of the five senses: taste, sight and sound. However, rarely do planners pay attention to touch or smell. It is my belief that strategically paying attention to scent can greatly impact the overall quality of an event.

The fact of the matter is that events are scented, whether you are planning it out or not. Strategically scenting an event space can become another instrument in your toolbox.

Scent is often overlooked not only in the event world, but also the world in general.

Scent is important to the way in which human beings interpret their surroundings and create meaning every day. In fact, the sense of smell is the only sensory receptor that is fully developed at the time of birth. It is also the receptor that is most closely linked to memory. Our ability to taste is directly linked to smell. Taste buds are chemoreceptors and have the ability to detect and distinguish chemicals; it is the aroma of food that brings the flavors to life.

Scenting spaces is not something new. It has been used as a tool for creating sacred space for hundreds if not thousands of years. The

ritualistic use of incense is an integral part of Catholic masses. This traces all the way back to the day of the Epiphany when the three kings reached baby Jesus; it is undisputed that two of the three gifts were scents, myrrh and frankincense, and both are derived from tree resin. In ancient Mesoamerica, indigenous tribes used a resin from the cabal tree as part of their rituals to create sacred space.

The reason it’s important to think about scenting your selected venue is because the space is already scented. Either the space has its own distinct aroma, which is not always pleasing, or you are bringing in scents through flowers and food. While most people love to stop and smell the roses and salivate from the succulent wafts drifting out of the caterer’s tent can cause, there are more ways and reasons to scent.

Much of the scent industry is based on neu-

TIFFANY ROSE GOODYEAR IS AN EXPERT IN SENSORY EXPERIENCE MARKETING, CREATING BRANDED EXPERIENCES BY EMPHASIZING TOUCH, TASTE AND SMELL. SHE ALSO OWNS YOURS TRULY CUPCAKE IN DENVER.

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tralizing offensive odors. This can be a useful tool when thinking about bathrooms for your events. Bringing a candle or small reed diffuser into these intimate areas can create positive experiences for guests. Another way to bring scent into an event is to strategically pair the scent to match the theme.

For the International Live Events Association Denver’s ScentEvent meeting in September at Grant-Humphreys Mansion, I worked closely with the Greens Point Catering to create four unique spaces. Each of these spaces included complimentary décor and was paired with a culinary creation. At the entrance to the event, we paired a Red Hook Manhattan with the scent Red Leather with notes of oud, tobacco and bergamot.

To show diversity in the use of scent, we created a spring room and fall room. Springtime with notes of white tea, green leaf and jasmine was harmonized with ricotta toast topped with peas, walnut and pesto. An Amish harvest scent featuring cloves, cinnamon and dried fruit was complemented with a savory course featuring a fall salad and cotechino with polenta. Dessert provided by Yours Truly Cupcake featured bisvi (a traditional Swedish dessert), Kahlua French macaroons and cookie sandwiches, and the sweets and coffee service were paired with peppermint wafting through the air.

Sara Lawrason, an event planner with Operation Altitude, was in attendance and was able to reflect upon scent being the underlying reason for choosing or avoiding a certain venue.

She now feels confident that scent shouldn’t be a deterrent and understands that she has the ability to scent a space to her specific needs.

If you have the opportunity to add a scent, make sure to do so in an area that is separate from other smells or pairs with them. Choose scents the same way you choose other event elements and weave them into the theme, overall look, décor and personalization for the client. Remember that all spaces and events have a distinct smell and that you have the opportunity to alter the aroma to elevate your guests’ experiences.

Get Connected THE SENTOLOGIST thesentologistl.com | 202.812.1218

DENVER PLACE IS AN EVENT VENUE THAT’S SURE TO AWE. With its premier location in the heart of downtown Denver, Denver Place is conveniently located within walking distance to the Colorado Convention Center and Denver Center for the Performing Arts and sits adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton, Denver. Denver Place is proud to partner with our on-site restaurants Mila and Zocalito and preferred caterers all offering exceptional cuisine and impeccable service. This unique, upscale, architecturally inspired event venue will transcend your next corporate gathering, symposium, reception, or holiday party.

999 18th Street, Denver, Colorado | 303.243.3823 | www.DenverPlace.com

PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

DESIGN SECRETS»

THE 4 PILLARS OF CORPORATE EVENT DESIGN It’s so much more than tablecloths.

BY VICTORIA ROSENBL ATT

MANY PEOPLE HOLD THE PREVALENT MISCONCEPTION that corporate event design is just tablecloths and centerpieces. Others can’t see the difference between corporate events and social gatherings, equating the importance of time and thought of a corporate event to that of a birthday party. And from that perspective, it’s easy to see why these things may be considered “fluff.” They are easy elements to achieve and by themselves don’t seem to carry any weight or potential lasting impact. But that’s not design, that’s decoration.

Nobody hosts an event for the sake of hosting an event. There is always a deeper purpose, and it’s the planner’s job to achieve it. True design takes into consideration the larger goals around the event and turns them into the strategic driving vision behind every decision.

That said, these are the four pillars upon which every corporate event should be designed.

and experience with the event. Because of this, every element should be carefully selected, representing the brand and the overall message that guests should leave with. Multilevel touch points that frequently and subtly reinforce the collective vision of the event and the values and enterprises of the company as a whole become what attendees hear and internalize.

Objectives

Emotion

Creating meaningful purpose begins by talking with your stakeholders. What are their goals? Current internal initiatives? Vision for the future? How should people feel after the event ends?

Being able to articulate the answers to these questions not only deepens your understanding, but it also provides the entire event blueprint. By knowing what your objectives are you’ll know what your impact features should be, and consequently where your money should be going (read: budget efficacy). No matter what the objectives are, brand authenticity is essential. Approach goals from the same values and vision of the company to create genuine experiences for attendees.

Whereas many professional interactions live somewhere between the inbox and the conference room, corporate events break free from those confines and create spaces where people can engage and be inspired. By sparking people’s emotions, they can begin to care, and caring leads to action: buying, supporting, connecting, sponsoring and investing.

Take the time to design an event that lets people create memories now and daydream about similarly interesting experiences with you in the future.

Themes & Messaging Themes and messaging are often likened to logos and while there is certainly space for branding in the more traditional sense, logos on everything from coasters to cookies does not get the gold star.

Events can be remarkably impactful because they speak to the guests. Everything they see, hear, read and touch all affect their perception

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Immersion Décor is the tangible heart and soul of events setting the tone, energy and expectations—it is what wholly creates the environment. The planning, strategy and objectives all come together through stage sets, invitations, lighting, place settings, entertain-

ment, gifts, engagements, music and food and transports guests into a completely new space filled with the possibility of creative freedom and connection.

Décor is how guests interact with your event and consequently, your entire message. Décor lets guests play, imagine and (most importantly) helps them buy into your purpose. A well-designed event will elicit emotion and makes the time attendees have spent with you extraordinary.

Impact Corporate events have the power to inspire, influence, encourage, solidify loyalty, create meaningful relationships and so much more. They harness the potential to actually change companies and the people within them. Corporate events aren’t just happy hours or ballroom dinners, they are the vehicles of inspiration and long-term impact. But thoughtful change through events, just like anything else, isn’t haphazard. It’s more than decorating a birthday party with tablecloths— it’s designing an experience to remember.

Get Connected ANDAVO MEETINGS & INCENTIVES andavomeetings.com | 720.398.5504

VICTORIA ROSENBLATT, CREATIVE DIRECTOR FOR ANDAVO MEETINGS & INCENTIVES, FOCUSES ON THE PERSONALITY, VISION AND GOALS OF HER CLIENTS TO CREATE INSPIRED DESIGNS AND ELEVATED GUEST EXPERIENCES.

YMCA of the Rockies

NATURE INSPIRES ESTES PARK CENTER SNOW MOUNTAIN RANCH From team-building retreats to nationwide conferences our two high-country Colorado mountain destinations offer an unbeatable natural setting where groups come to experience the wonder of nature and the spirit of togetherness.

Cabins, lodges and meals for groups of all sizes. Meeting spaces and activities are included in your conference, group or retreat booking.

800-777-9622

ColoradoConferenceCenters.com

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

BY THE NUMBERS

486,000 SQUARE FEET OF EXHIBITION, MEETING, PREFUNCTION AND OUTDOOR SPACE 8 FOOD AND BEVERAGE OUTLETS 75-FOOT-TALL (EIGHT STORIES HIGH) ATRIUM WINDOW IN GRAND LODGE

17-ROOM RELACHE SPA & SALON 22,000 SQUARE FEET OF AQUATIC EXPERIENCES, INCLUDING AN INDOOR AND OUTDOOR POOL, SLIDES AND LAZY RIVER 75-FOOT VIEWING SCREEN IN MOUNTAIN PASS SPORTS BAR 26 FIREPLACES $7 BILLION ESTIMATED ECONOMIC IMPACT FOR COLORADO

NEW HOTEL SNAPSHOT»

GAYLORD ROCKIES RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER, AURORA Colorado’s largest combined resort and convention center launched in December.

G

aylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center opened its doors on Dec. 18, 2018 and began welcoming groups in January 2019. The new resort, a marquee property for Marriott International, is the fifth Gaylord Hotels resort in the nation and one of the largest hospitality industry projects to break ground in the United States since 2016.

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A hyper-local Colorado spirit is at the heart of the property. One of the local food and beverage partnerships is Dry Dock Brewing Co., an Aurora brewery that is producing two exclusive Gaylord Rockies beers. The design and décor resembles the Colorado outdoors, such as boulders molded after iconic attractions and a restaurant with a log cabin-esque ambiance. Elevators on the lower level are

designed to look like old mine shafts, while guest rooms feature aspen tree-inspired carpets, lumberjack plaid on pillows, and hiking and camping maps in closets. The convention center has Colorado details sprinkled throughout, including elements that represent ski tracks, snowdrifts and snowflakes. gaylordrockies.com

P H O T O S : G AY L O R D R O C K I E S R E S O R T & C O N V E N T I O N C E N T E R ; DA N H A M P H OTO

1,501 ROOMS, INCLUDING 114 SUITES (THE 14 PRESIDENTIAL SUITES RANGE BETWEEN 1,500 AND 2,200 SQUARE FEET)

P H O T O S : G AY L O R D R O C K I E S R E S O R T & C O N V E N T I O N C E N T E R ; DA N H A M P H OTO

CONFERENCE SPOTLIGHT»

MILEHICON CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY The annual gathering is as popular as ever, bringing together people interested in science fiction and related genres.

Colorado’s 2018 MileHiCon took place on Oct. 19-21, 2018 at the Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center and, like usual, brought together authors and lovers of literary science fiction, fantasy and horror.

The convention attracted approximately 1,500 guests to participate in 200-plus breakout sessions and activities including movies, panels, literary discussions, crafts and live theatrical performances.

Spotlight events included the Critter Crunch (robotic sumo wrestling), Critter Float-illa (robot yacht race), cosplay contest and literacy auction. This year, the auction raised $2,000, and all proceeds went to The Learning Source, a Denver charity.

Around-the-clock gaming in all forms—from cards and board games to video games—has been another popular draw of the conference, along with Colorado’s largest science fiction and fantasy art show with 50 artists and vendors. MileHiCon provides programming for kids as well, making the event exciting for all ages and interests.

More than 100 authors and guests of honor attended the 50th anniversary conference and were available to sign books and magazines for attendees.

MileHiCon has been run and staffed entirely by volunteers since its inception in 1969. While its purpose is to promote interest in reading and writing science fiction and related genres, the convention has long since branched out to embrace science and technology, television, film, anime, gaming, costuming and other areas of fan interest. milehicon.org —Jenna Barbari

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

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VENUE SPOTLIGHT»

Co-Working Spaces

This recent trend not only benefits lone eagles, remote employees and business travelers, it’s resulting in handy new options for meeting and event locations.

Treeline Kitchen

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Treeline Kitchen in Leadville launched Workspace @ Treeline, a workspace by day and restaurant by night, in September 2018. Treeline is a sustainable American restaurant serving up locally sourced food, quaint Colorado décor and a variety of meeting and co-working spaces. Outdoor options include a rooftop overlooking Colorado’s two highest peaks, a spacious patio with a fire pit and views of Leadville’s National Historic Landmark District.

Indoor spaces include the main dining room, upstairs meeting space and more

options in the historic building next door. Treeline Kitchen provides light breakfast and lunch catering options for groups, but their full-service bar is open all day for individuals in case you need some coffee or something stronger. workspace.treelinekitchen.com Rochester Hotel in Durango opened its co-working R Space next door in 2017 and offers several spaces for working and meeting to accommodate the needs of professionals and groups. R Space is designed to host all forms of networking, co-working, collaborating and idea sharing, and rooms that are more geared toward events and meetings are available. There are a variety of useful resources such as the Leadership Lending Library with more than 200 books and high-speed fiber internet.

Members and groups also can utilize the hotel’s bar/lobby area and beautiful Secret Garden. rspacedurango.com —Jenna Barbari

P H O T O S : H O N E Y H O U S E D I S T I L L E R Y ; D O M I N I C TAY L O R

Across the country, hospitality providers are tapping into the co-working space craze by using existing rooms or creating new spaces that cater to entrepreneurial professionals, people who work remotely or just need a break from the office, and even groups. Co-working spaces are interesting new venue options for smaller meetings, so we’re taking a look at two that have popped up in Colorado.

P H O T O S : H O N E Y H O U S E D I S T I L L E R Y ; D O M I N I C TAY L O R

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There is no denying the stunning daytime scenery of Colorado, but the state’s amazing celestial landscape after normal meeting hours provides all sorts of great options for groups.

Twice each month from May through September, groups meeting in Leadville or nearby can enjoy a stagecoach ride beneath a full moon with HALFMOON PACKING & OUTFITTING. Based on the 19th-century tradition of mail delivery by stagecoach, moonlight rides are offered on the eve and night of the full moon. halfmoonpacking.com Experience Colorado’s legendary Browns Canyon in the Arkansas River Valley during a full moon raft trip with THE ADVENTURE COMPANY offered from May through August. Groups will relish illuminated water and beautiful views of the Collegiate Peaks and can add on the Ultimate Fajita Buffet dinner served as the sun sets. theadventurecompany.com Strap on a headlamp and experience five zip lines in the moon glow during

P H OTO : J O S E P H L A R G E / B R E C K E N R I D G E TO U R I S M O F F I C E

Opening in Denver’s RiNo Arts District August 2019.

COLORADO SUNSETS, STARS & EVENING FUN FOR GROUPS

P H OTO : J O S E P H L A R G E / B R E C K E N R I D G E TO U R I S M O F F I C E

Schedule a site tour by 6/1 and receive a complimentary lunch for two.

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Alpenglow Zip Tours at DEVIL’S THUMB RANCH RESORT & SPA in Tabernash. Tours are available from May through September on full-moon nights and include post-zip beverages. devilsthumbranch.com The Denver Film Society and Denver Arts & Venues team up to offer Film on the Rocks from mid-May to mid-August at RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATRE in Morrison. There is a great view from any seat in the house, and guests are treated to live music followed by the scheduled movie under a blanket of stars. Each showing begins at dusk. redrocksonline.com Experience a Rocky Mountain sunset, entertainment, dinner and the bright light of the moon at CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD themed sunset dinners. During summer and autumn, each sunset dinner offers a different theme like murder mystery, fiesta, speakeasy and more. cumbretoltec.com Groups can experience Colorado’s celestial landscape at CHIMNEY ROCK NATIONAL MONUMENT, located 20 miles from Pagosa Springs, during a Full Moon Program that occurs against the backdrop of the Great House Pueblo at the top of Chimney Rock Mesa. The program lasts approximately three hours and includes an informative lecture followed by watching the full moon rise to the music of Charles Martinez’ Native American flute. chimneyrockco.org

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TABLESCAPE WIPA LUNCHEON

UP, UP & AWAY

A vintage travel theme helps launch Colorado chapter of WIPA.

BY EMMA FR ANKE | PHOTOS BY STUDIO JK

B

y Design Collective staff found themselves in the enviable position of having free range to decorate an event to their own tastes. Brittany Dosdall, now an associate director of sales, helped establish the Colorado Chapter of the Wedding International Professionals Association (WIPA) a few years ago as a founding board member. The result was so charming that Colorado Meetings + Events is doing a flashback of sorts.

“Knowing we had to wow all the top professionals, we wanted to kick it off right and make sure people were inspired,” says Dosdall.

“That was when we got Ashley on board.”

Ashley Haas Youngswick, senior creative director at Décor By Design, says she got her idea for the vintage travel theme from the linens provided by Creative Coverings. “The blue napkins and table runners reminded me of National Geographic and old maps,” she says. From that point of inspiration, she went on to shop for used and vintage accessories that added to the theme. “We had details like vintage little globes, airplanes and suitcases, which I love,” she says.

A hedge wall provided a place for photo ops and contributed to the lighthearted mood. Oversize photography prints, taken by Cade Nagy, chef/owner of By Design Collective, also helped set the scene.

The theme of the four-course seated luncheon extended to the menu, which was displayed on a little itinerary card. Other details included luggage tags hanging from a mini saucepot, a boarding pass liner, and vintage luggage stickers on bowls. With each course, guests were transported to the old days of postcards and leather suitcases.

Held at blanc in Denver, the room was filled with bright colors and touching details, helping to impress the active and potential WIPA Colorado members in the room. “We are actually the fastest-growing chapter in the U.S.,” says Dosdall of the Colorado Chapter. “We decided to do a statewide chapter because we have such an amazing group of professionals not just in Denver but in the mountains and all over the state.”

However, the event was not without challenges. “We were hoping to do a big reveal of the tablescape, but that was botched because of the weather,” recalls Haas Youngswick. “It was a little cramped, and people definitely saw the tables before we had planned, but it turned out great.”

Vendor Partners Overall Design, Tables, Benches, Flatware, Menu & Place Cards:

BY DESIGN COLLECTIVE bydesign-collective.com Florals: DESIGN BY ASHLEY HAAS YOUNGSWICK,

BY DESIGN COLLECTIVE bydesign-collective.com

Chairs: EVENT RENTS DENVER eventrents.net Linens: CREATIVE COVERINGS creativecoverings.com Charger Plates & Glassware: YONDER FLORAL + DECOR HOUSE houseofyonder.com

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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VENUE REPORT HISTORIC HOTELS

THE REST IS HISTORY

Look to the future by booking an event at one of Colorado’s hotels that’s rooted in the past. B Y S H E L L Y S T E I G

THERE IS THAT SAYING, “Those who don’t know history are doomed to repeat it.” Sometimes that’s a good thing, especially when it’s Colorado’s historic hotels we’re talking about. For more than a century, these venerable properties have hosted presidents, royalty, prima donnas and groups.

T H E B R O W N PA L A C E H O T E L & S PA , Denver The Brown Palace, built in 1892, has been visited by nearly every president since Theodore Roosevelt. The 241-room hotel offers 25,000 square feet of meeting space for groups from 15 to 800. The 5,800-square-foot Grand Ballroom is adorned with imported African mahogany

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paneling and Czechoslovakian crystal chandeliers and can be divided into two 2,900-squarefoot rooms. The Brown’s meeting facilities include 18 separate rooms of various sizes.

T H E OX F O R D H O T E L , Denver Denver’s first hotel opened down the street from busy Union Station in 1891. Listed on

the National Register of Historic Places, the 80-room Oxford features 10,000 square feet of function space. The restored carriage house next door features 8,600 square feet of the meeting options. The Oxford’s Grand Ballroom and Oxford Theatre have theaterstyle capacities up to 240 and 150.

“At the Oxford, you get an immediate

P H OTO S : T H E B R OW N PA L AC E H OT E L & S PA ; (O P P O S I T E ) T I M R O M A N O ; T H E OX F O R D H OT E L ; T H E C L I F F H O U S E AT P I K E S P E A K

One of several suites at The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa, which dates back to 1892

P H OTO S : T H E B R OW N PA L AC E H OT E L & S PA ; (O P P O S I T E ) T I M R O M A N O ; T H E OX F O R D H OT E L ; T H E C L I F F H O U S E AT P I K E S P E A K

The Rest of the Story ARMSTRONG HOTEL, FORT COLLINS When the Armstrong opened its doors in 1923, it was the tallest building in town. The property was lovingly restored in 2004 and is currently undergoing renovations.

The owners carefully preserved building’s history by recreating the original storefront and neon sign from photographs. Three event spaces accommodate from 16 to 150 guests. thearmstronghotel.com

B E AU M O N T H OT E L , O U R AY The Beaumont Hotel was built at the height of gold fever in 1886 as the flagship hotel of the San Juan Mountains. For elegant affairs, book the 115-person capacity Grand Ballroom, an opulent space with a vaulted wood ceiling and arched gothic windows in original stained glass. A separate private conference room seats 20. beaumonthotel.com

THE MINING EXCHANGE, A W YNDHAM GRAND HOTEL & SPA, COLOR ADO SPRINGS

Clockwise from top: Hotel Boulderado features a newly renovated lobby; The Oxford Hotel has distinct features such as these iron railings; The Cliff House at Pikes Peak was once a stagecoach stop.

sense of Denver and the pride of our city’s history,” says Nancy Montgomery, senior manager of event marketing at CoBank.

“The recent renovations have absolutely maintained that but have really enhanced the hotel’s elegance, making it feel high end and appropriate for the business that needs to be done there, and yet that it also fits in with the hip, modern ‘new’ Denver where it is located. I knew that historian and hipster alike would love it.”

S T R AT E R H O T E L , Durango The 93-room Strater Hotel, built by a Cleveland pharmacist, opened its doors in 1887. It displays the largest collection of American Victorian-era walnut furniture in the world.

The Strater has 6,000 square feet of meeting space, including the 3,000-square-foot Henry Strater Theatre that accommodates 150 seated, 260 theater-style and 300 standing. The Strater also has three restaurants and bars.

While not technically a historic hotel, The Mining Exchange is located in a stunning historic building completed in 1902. The property sat empty for years before it was restored to the original grandeur and turned it into a luxury hotel. The Mining Exchange features 17,000 square feet of function space. wyndhamhotels.com

HOTEL BOULDER ADO,

Boulder

Back in the early 1900s, Boulder was becoming the place to see and be seen. To house the sophisticates streaming into the city, business owners sold stock and formed the Boulder Hotel Company with eyes toward building a luxury property. When doors opened on New Year’s Day in 1909, everyone agreed they had succeeded. These days, thanks to modernization and recent renovations, the hotel boasts 12 meeting and event spaces featuring more than 10,000 square feet of options.

HOTE L COLOR ADO,

Glenwood Springs

Theodore Roosevelt was a frequent visitor to the 1893-era Hotel Colorado, utilizing the property as his hunting base. After he returned empty handed from a hunt in 1901, maids pieced together a fabric alternative, creating the beloved teddy bear. The 130-room

Hotel Colorado features 10,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space that can accommodate 700 attendees.

H OTE L J E ROM E , AU B E RG E RESORTS COLLEC TION ,

Aspen

The investors who built Hotel Jerome in 1889 at the height of the silver boom intended to rival London’s luxurious property, The Savoy.

All 99 guest rooms were extensively renovated in 2012, and the courtyard and pool terrace were upgraded in 2018. Hotel Jerome also added residential suites and four vibrant social spaces. The hotel’s “mine-camp Victorian style” has been preserved and interior décor reproduced to match the historic time period.

For meetings and events, the property offers seven rooms (including a courtyard and terrace) that range from 640 to 3,450 square feet.

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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VENUE REPORT HISTORIC HOTELS

The Broadmoor recently celebrated its 100th anniversary.

Telluride

In 1891, gold and silver investors built the Sheridan Hotel. The original wood structure burned down two years later, and the New Sheridan Hotel was rebuilt on the original site. A smaller property with only 26 guest rooms and suites, meeting space options are more limited with the 650-square-foot American Room, accommodating 35 seated or 50 standing.

T H E S TA N L E Y H O T E L ,

Estes Park

Built by the co-inventor of the Stanley Steamer Automobile, who moved to Colorado to recover from tuberculosis, The Stanley Hotel is known for its classic elegance and sweeping front porch and claims to house a few spirits.

The 1909 property offers 41,000 square feet of meeting and event space, including The Pavilion, a beautiful new option with an auditorium and banquet space.

T H E B R OA D M O O R ,

Colorado Springs

The iconic property did a fair share of sprucing up in anticipation of its 100th anniver-

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sary in 2018, including updating two eateries, expanding the main lobby and refreshing the rooms and suites in Broadmoor Main.

There also is an incredible 185,000 square feet of meeting facilities. The Broadmoor is the longest consecutive winner of the Forbes FiveStar and AAA Five-Diamond awards.

T H E C L I F F H O U S E AT P I K E S P E A K , Manitou Springs Once a stagecoach stop along the gold route from Colorado Springs to Leadville, the “inn” was a boarding house for rich capitalists. In 1876, the property was turned into a resort hotel where guests such as P.T. Barnum and Thomas Edison overnighted. The Cliff House offers five rooms for events including a 2,500-square-foot ballroom, 1,850-squarefoot pavilion (with retractable walls and windows in its front room), two boardrooms and a solarium.

Jim Fariss, owner of Black Forest Piano Tuning & Repair, scheduled the Master Piano Technicians annual convention at The Cliff House in 2018. He neatly wrapped up what makes historic hotels so memorable. “Our MPT group will never recall the rooms or hotel from previous con-

ventions where we stayed at large chain motels, but they will always remember that special hotel they stayed at during the 2018 Manitou convention.”

Get Connected THE BROADMOOR thebroadmoor.com | 800.633.7711 THE BROWN PALACE HOTEL & SPA brownpalace.com | 303.297.3111 THE CLIFF HOUSE AT PIKES PEAK thecliffhouse.com | 719.785.1000 HOTEL BOULDERADO boulderado.com | 303.442.4344 HOTEL COLORADO hotelcolorado.com | 970.945.6511 HOTEL JEROME hoteljerome.aubergeresorts.com | 970.920.1000 NEW SHERIDAN HOTEL newsheridan.com | 970.728.4351 THE OXFORD HOTEL theoxfordhotel.com | 303.628.5400 THE STANLEY HOTEL stanleyhotel.com | 970.577.4018 STRATER HOTEL strater.com | 970.247.4431

P H OTO : T H E B R OA D M O O R

N E W S H E R I DA N H OT E L ,

P H OTO : T H E B R OA D M O O R

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DESTINATION BOULDER

OUTSIDE THE USUAL BOX Ideally situated at the foot of the Rockies, Boulder is perfect for groups seeking something different.

BY ERIC PETERSON

THERE’S ONLY ONE BOULDER, and being one-of-a-kind stirs some pretty deep emotions. ¶ Nanci Reich, director of corporate operations for the Washington, D.C.-based Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), plans several meetings in Boulder every year. “It’s a great town,” says Reich. “It’s a foodie town. It’s very outdoorsy. If I could move there, I would do it in a heartbeat. I adore it.”

Boulder also hooks newcomers. Susanna Sheehan, organization development manager for California-based Knighted Ventures, planned a three-day event in Boulder in September 2018. “We were looking for someplace that wasn’t so Vegas-y and crazy,” she

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explains. Boulder fit the bill, with its emphasis on good food and outdoor activities.

Knighted’s group of 13 people from both coasts stayed and met at Basecamp Boulder, went rock climbing with Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides, and got a bird’s-eye view

of the area with Fair Winds Hot Air Balloon Flights. Favorite restaurants included Wild Standard and Snarfburger.

“We were all very impressed,” says Sheehan.

“We want to figure out how to move to Boulder.”

She credits the team at Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau for helping plan a successful gathering. “I’m an ideas person, not a logistics person,” she explains.

“If they come to Boulder, they’re going to get that full Boulder experience,” says Director of Group Sales Clay Perry. That means the great outdoors, great food, breweries, and everything else. He adds, “It’s great to come collaborate and think outside the box.”

Variety of Venues Venues range from historic lodgings and modern hotels to dedicated events spaces. “You’ve got luxury, you’ve got history, you’ve got modern and new,” says Perry.

P H O T O S : I S T O C K . C O M / S W K R U L L I M A G I N G ; ( O P P O S I T E ) D AV I D L A U E R P H OTO G R A P H Y; S T E P H E N CO L L E C TO R

Pearl Street Mall

P H O T O S : I S T O C K . C O M / S W K R U L L I M A G I N G ; ( O P P O S I T E ) D AV I D L A U E R P H OTO G R A P H Y; S T E P H E N CO L L E C TO R

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5,328 feet ELEVATION 107,125 POPULATION 300+ miles BICYCLE LANES AND ROUTES 20 BREWERIES 65,593 ACRES OF OPEN SPACE IN BOULDER COUNTY

On the luxurious side, St Julien Hotel & Spa is hard to top. Nestled between the foothills and the pedestrian Pearl Street Mall downtown, the property features 9,708 square feet of indoor event space with the largest accommodating as many 400 people theater-style.

Then there’s the history. Opened in 1909, Hotel Boulderado can accommodate groups up to 250 in its 10,000 feet of event space.

Michele Rittgers, director of sales and marketing, calls it “an icon in the heart of downtown Boulder.”

Another historic gem, Colorado Chautauqua was established at the base of Boulder’s iconic flatirons in 1898. Today it offers year-round lodging on-site and a number of event spaces, including the Chautauqua Community House with a maximum capacity of 125.

For modern and new, look no further than the dual-branded Hiltons on Canyon, comprised of Embassy Suites by Hilton Boulder and Hilton Garden Inn Boulder, featuring a total of 376 guest rooms. Opened in 2017, Hiltons on Canyon has the largest ballroom in the city (6,500 square feet) as well as breakout rooms and a year-round pool deck.

Angela Blackstock, dual director of sales and marketing, says the property can cover the pool with Plexiglas panels to expand the deck’s capacity from 75 to 130. After testing the panels in spring 2018, Blackstock sees it as something special for a creative event. “It has to be the right client, but we’re excited to do it again,” she says.

Quality over Quantity Merix Gustin, owner and director of event operations for Plan Ahead Events Boulder and a 36-year Boulder resident, suggests that wellness is a big selling point for prospective

Colorado Chautauqua; Hotel Boulderado (top)

events. “I think Boulder is a perfect place to do this,” Gustin says. “You can get up early and go on a hike before you have to go to a meeting. …

Every season of the year, we have a reason you want to be here and be outside.”

One thing Boulder doesn’t have is scale.

“Larger groups do not have much luck here,” she says. Venues like the Omni Interlocken Hotel and The Westin Westminster offer more elbow room a few miles down U.S. 36

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DESTINATION BOULDER

Boulder offers a number of small- and medium-sized meeting venues that are decidedly different.

Rembrandt Yard is a two-level modern art gallery that can accommodate 175 theater-style or 500 for a reception. Groups can rent one or two levels and choose from three tiers of service, from space only to turnkey that includes furnishings and A/V equipment. “We see a little bit of everything, from company meetings to product launches to team-building, all the way to big conferences,” says General Manager Molly Hensley.

A renovated church now touted as “possibly the greenest music and media center in Colorado” is now known as eTown Hall, home to a radio show of a similar name and a recording studio. It’s available as a rental for groups of up to 234 in the theater, while a café and the recording studio offer more intimate settings.

New in 2018 and located up Boulder Canyon, Boulder Adventure Lodge accommodates 20 in a meeting room that opens up to a larger space that holds about 50. “It’s a great, beautiful space and it’s brand new,” says owner Asa Firestone. Early adopters are “companies coming up for brainstorm workshops and off-site retreats.”

The second largest brewery in Boulder County, Avery Brewing Company, can accommodate about 50 seated or 150 for receptions in its event mezzanine over the production floor. “It really gives people the experience of being in a real Colorado brewery,” says Amy Newell-Large, Avery’s hospitality manager. The 10 taps of Avery’s award-winning beers located behind the bar are a big perk.

The thoroughly hip Rayback Collective offers 12,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space and plenty of parking for food trucks. The plumbing warehouse on the north end of Boulder was reinvented as an event venue in 2016.

“They’ve turned it into a huge open room that is really flexible,” says Merix Gustin, owner and director of event operations for Plan Ahead Events Boulder.

“You can create whatever you want in that space.”

and groups meeting there can still build the Boulder experience into their itineraries.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, Gustin says, as Boulder is all about quality over quantity, especially when it comes to the culinary culture. “The food and beverage that’s available here is outstanding. There are so many excellent chefs and so much local creativity.”

Beyond the hotels, University of Colorado Boulder campus offers a number of spaces, including the city’s largest ballroom: the Glenn Miller Ballroom with a capacity of 440 for banquets and 1,000 for lectures.

Gustin also highlights Dairy Center for the Arts as a great event venue with a central location. The lobby is ideal for social events with a capacity of 220, and Gordon Gamm Theater can hold 250.

Alyson Taylor, executive administrator with Minneapolis-based health care technology provider Revel Health, planned a two-night planning session for 11 people in December 2018. Based at The Boulder Bradley Inn, the group took a break from meetings for a guided hike on the Flatiron Mountains with Aspire Tours.

“It’s a small town, it’s easy to get to, and it’s different from what we have in Minnesota,” says Taylor. It was Revel’s first foray outside Minnesota for its annual year-end meeting, and she received rave reviews. “Everybody loved it.”

All things considered, Boulder provides an antidote to big convention destinations.

Instead of buffets, organic food is on the table.

Instead of nightclubs and casinos, it’s craft breweries and mountain trails. There is also so much to do.

“Some events can leave attendees saying, ‘That was more work than play,’” Rittgers says.

“Boulder’s the perfect place where you can combine the two.”

Get Connected Boulder Adventure Lodge

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P H OTO : B O U L D E R A DV E N T U R E LO D G E

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Amazing Entertainment for Any Occasion LOCAL, REGIONAL & NATIONAL ACTS

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THE BROADMOOR

I

T’S THE 13TH ANNUAL READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS FOR COLORADO’S MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY. AN IMPRESSIVE GROUP OF PLANNERS, SUPPLIERS, VENUES AND HOTELS ARE

BEING APPLAUDED BY READERS, PEERS AND CLIENTS FOR THEIR CHOICE AWARDS RECIPIENTS AND RUNNERS-UP!

It was lucky No. 7 for Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre as the Best Attraction in Denver Metro. So lucky that Red Rocks took home two other wins: Best Outdoor Meeting/ Event Venue and Best Meeting/Event Venue in Denver Metro (No Hotel). What makes it so lucky? Maybe it’s the wildlife and beautiful natural surroundings. “Red Rocks continues to be a natural wonder—there aren’t many venues around that provide a hillside full of deer while you’re having dinner with a band in the background. The occasional bear wanders through along with eagles, hawks,

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foxes, rabbits, raccoons, coyotes, skunks, rattlesnakes and rodents of many shapes and sizes,” explains Director of Marketing and Communications Brian Kitts.

“This was a big year in terms of food and beverage at Red Rocks. MillerCoors remained a partner; however, a bunch of new partnerships kicked in, including service of Colorado’s own Stranahan’s Whiskey and also Absolut Vodka and Altos Tequila. And New Belgium came on board, which resulted in the first-ever Red Rocks-specific beer: the Kolsch-style Stage Rock Colorado Ale. Additionally, the venue brought

on some local vendors for specific foods including Rolling Smoke Barbeque and Biker Jim’s Hot Dogs featuring elk, bison and more.”

The Broadmoor wraps up its yearlong 100th anniversary in style as the only other winner to rack up three awards: Best Historic Venue, Best Renovation Project and Best Hotel or Resort outside Denver Metro (More than 200 Guest Rooms). Whether it’s a Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond dinner in the Penrose Room, checking out the Wilderness Experiences properties and activities, an after-

P H OTO S : T H E B R OA D M O O R ; (O P P O S I T E ) JAC K A F F L E C K

VALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS. HATS OFF TO OUR BEST OF 2019 READERS’

The Winners BEST ATTRACTION IN DENVER METRO

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Morrison redrocksonline.com | 303.697.6047 RUNNERS-UP: Denver Botanic Gardens; Denver Union Station

BEST OUTDOOR MEETING/EVENT VENUE

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Morrison redrocksonline.com | 303.697.6047 RUNNERS-UP: Denver Botanic Gardens; Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa

BEST MEETING/EVENT VENUE IN DENVER METRO (No Hotel)

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Morrison redrocksonline.com | 303.697.6047 RUNNERS-UP: Colorado Convention Center; Mile High Station

BEST HISTORIC VENUE

The Broadmoor

P H OTO S : T H E B R OA D M O O R ; (O P P O S I T E ) JAC K A F F L E C K

VAIL VILLAGE noon of fun and games at Play or a tour of Seven Falls with a reception at restaurant 1858, the resort enters its next century poised to entertain and enthrall with great facilities and top-notch customer experience. Here’s an extra toast to classic dishes that also have celebrated 100 years: Broadmoor Pepper Steak Flambé, Crab Louis, Rocky Mountain Red Trout Amandine and Broadmoor Signature Lobster Cocktail.

VISIT DENVER, The Convention & Visitors Bureau wins the Best Destination Marketing Organization (Town/ Area 25,000+ in Population) for the 13th consecutive year; this dedicated team has never been defeated in the category. As Denver continues to impress on national and international

stages, it’s constant new additions to the downtown hospitality skyline like the dual-branded Le Méridien and AC Hotel, Staybridge Suites Denver Downtown, Hotel Indigo Denver, The Maven, Source Hotel + Market Hall, The Ramble Hotel, Kimpton Hotel Born and newly completed Hilton Garden Inn Denver Union Station that draw on the curiosity of groups and leisure travelers and bring repeat business to a city. Cherry Creek is also hosting more corporate events than ever with the opening of The Jacquard Hotel & Rooftop, Halcyon and Moxy Denver Cherry Creek in recent years.

Vail Valley Partnership has landed the Best Destination Marketing Organization (Town/Area Less than 25,000 in Population) a variety of times over the years. The focus

Colorado Springs broadmoor.com | 855.634.7711 RUNNERS-UP: The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa; Denver Union Station

BEST RENOVATION PROJECT AT HOTEL OR EVENT VENUE (Completed between Oct. 1, 2017 – Sept. 30, 2018)

The Broadmoor

Colorado Springs broadmoor.com | 855.634.7711 RUNNERS-UP: The Oxford Hotel; C Lazy U Ranch

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT WITH MEETING/EVENT SPACE OUTSIDE DENVER METRO (More than 200 Guest Rooms)

The Broadmoor

Colorado Springs broadmoor.com | 855.634.7711 RUNNERS-UP: Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center; St Julien Hotel & Spa

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The Winners

A SPICE OF LIFE CATERING + EVENTS

BEST DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATION

(Town/Area 25,000+ in Population)

VISIT DENVER, The Convention & Visitors Bureau

Denver visitdenver.com | 800.233.6837 RUNNERS-UP: Visit Colorado Springs; Boulder Convention & Visitors Bureau

BEST DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATION (Town/Area Less than 25,000 in Population)

Vail Valley Partnership

Edwards vailvalleypartnership.com | 970.476.1000 RUNNERS-UP: Breckenridge Tourism Office; Winter Park & Fraser Chamber

BEST ATTRACTION OUTSIDE DENVER METRO Vail Mountain

vail.com | 970.476.5601 RUNNERS-UP: Beaver Creek Resort; Rocky Mountain National Park

BEST EVENT DÉCOR/FLORIST

The Perfect Petal

Denver theperfectpetal.com | 303.480.0966 RUNNERS-UP: DesignWorks; Eclectic Hive

BEST CATERER IN DENVER METRO

Catering by Design

Denver bydesign-collective.com | 303.781.5335 RUNNERS-UP: Biscuits & Berries; Epicurean Group

BEST CATERER OUTSIDE DENVER METRO A Spice of Life Catering + Events

Boulder aspiceoflife.com | 303.443.4049 RUNNERS-UP: Garden of the Gods Gourmet; Picnic Basket Family of Companies

BEST MEETING/EVENT PLANNING COMPANY Imprint Group

Denver imprintgroup.com | 303.623.1492 RUNNERS-UP: ACCESS Colorado; Convention Designs

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ACCESS COLORADO

since inception in 1964 has been serving as a regional Chamber of Commerce and pursuing destination sales and marketing and economic development for the nine towns in the valley.

The partnership has eight signature programs and works with more than 870 local businesses (nearly 80 percent of the local workforce) to ensure visitors and groups to Vail Valley have streamlined, exciting and memorable events.

P H O T O S : A S P I C E O F L I F E C AT E R I N G + E V E N T S ; J E N S E N S U T TA

It’s only fitting that Vail Mountain also takes home Best Attraction outside Denver Metro again. What was new in 2018? For the first time in 10 years, the mountain opened early for the 2018/2019 ski season due to great snow conditions. And, to stay on trend and keep up with the mobile craze, Vail Mountain debuted Emma—Epic Mountain Assistant— for guests to access weather, grooming conditions, planning information through departure and much more to learn about the mountain before arrival.

It was another well-deserved Best Event Décor/ Florist win for owner and designer Cindy Ollig and her team at The Perfect Petal. Here’s some inside scoop from Ollig regarding color, themes and quirks. » What were the most popular colors requested for 2018? “Gold, champagne, amber!

Half-tones are still in vogue, muted lavender browns, gold-rusts, pink-tans. The other trend was mixed foliages and greenery varieties.” » What was a color that was not used much for events? “Turquoise. Which is fantastic, because I have rarely seen it done well.” » What was the strangest thing requested?

“Lifelike Game of Thrones event tied with and adult dinosaur party!” » What was something you wished a client had ordered for an event, but didn’t?

“Climbing wall sculptures in floral and branches.”

It’s a three-peat for Catering by Design for Best Caterer in Denver Metro. The Denverbased caterer has expanded its brand to match the crafting and curating demands of the meetings and events industry. Our voters’ stamps of approval are in line with Catering by Design’s

impressive awards won in 2018: International Live Events Association (ILEA) Esprit Award for Best Culinary Innovation, ILEA Denver IDEAs Award for Best Culinary Innovation and Best Catered Event, International Caterers Association CATIE Award for Best Signature Caterer for Best Multi-Day Event.

Boulder-based Spice of Life Catering + Events’ back-to-back win in the Best Caterer outside Denver Metro category can be attributed to constantly changing it up and looking for new approaches to classic events, cuisine and spices, of course. Pitch the truffle salt and ghost pepper, owner David Rubin’s team has declared that the most on-trend and ambitious spices for 2019 are black garlic, Szechuan pepper, black cardamom and white turmeric.

Who’s on first? That’s a loaded question for the Denver trio of Imprint Group, who took the award for Best Meeting/Event Planning Company, accompanied by the same runnersup as the previous two years, Convention Designs and ACCESS Colorado. They are leading the pack with consistent and outstanding performances. However if it’s the Best Destination Management Company category, then the roles are flipped and ACCESS Colorado is on first, and Imprint Group and Convention Designs earned the runnersup slots. But, just when you think you know who’s playing, Elite Entertainment took first place as Best Entertainment Agency after a back-to-back win by 5 Star Talent and Entertainment, who was a runner-up along with Imprint Group. Confused? Don’t be, it’s community and teamwork that keeps the competition fierce in Colorado.

Imprint Group welcomed Alpine Access, a destination management company serving Colorado mountain resorts, to the fold in late 2018 as a new division called Imprint Events Colorado Resorts. With additional offices in Orlando and Las Vegas, Imprint Group has provided destination management, entertainment and production services to clients in Colorado for nearly 50 years, and the merger now provides full-time presence in the mountain region.

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nominees. “A full-fledged Rocky Mountain National Park-themed concept. Roaming park rangers, event/park maps, national park signage, real wildlife encounters, etc. This ties greatly with the outdoor-inspired event trend, but so far no one has requested it!” he adds.

Elite Entertainment has more than DJs, lighting and photo booths; they take these usual tricks of the trade and truly amplify them. For a 2018 event, the theme was fire and ice and a DJ was suspended over the dance floor on a hanging stage. “We also did a big production at Coohills where we lit up the entire pedestrian bridge that transformed into a venue,” shares Office Manager Josi Coleman.

It was a golden year for Jillian Livingston, owner and creative director of Eclectic Hive.

When it comes to specialty rentals, her team outshone the competition in the Best Specialty Rentals category. We asked Livingston how she best used rose gold for an event in 2018, as this was the biggest color and décor trend for the year. “Rose gold mirrored bar menus, rose gold and marble bars and food stations, rose gold accent tables, rose gold pillows, wall of fame that included all employee names etched into rose gold bricks that lined the building wall, rose gold balloon installation (coming out of a baby grand piano), rose gold ribbon cutting and rose gold mirrored glass invitations,” she says.

P H O T O : D E V I L ’ S T H U M B R A N C H R E S O R T & S PA

We asked the team at ACCESS Colorado about their wackiest event and they answered a western shoot-out stunt show on an Old West movie-style set. “We had a custom script, actual guns, people falling off roofs, and the CEO of the client company played the role of sheriff. We had the entire group get ‘kidnapped’ by outlaws on the bus to the venue, our staff was ‘shot,’ and the group was ultimately rescued by the CEO sheriff. It was such a fun way to embrace the history of the area and get the entire group involved,” says Director of Sales Alex Lomas.

We also inquired about what dream event they would like to create with the other

DEVIL’S THUMB RANCH RESORT & SPA

The Winners BEST DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY ACCESS Colorado

Denver accessdmc.com | 303.862.6149 RUNNERS-UP: Imprint Group; Convention Designs

BEST ENTERTAINMENT AGENCY

Elite Entertainment

Lakewood myelitedj.com | 303.635.1210 RUNNERS-UP: Imprint Group; 5 Star Talent and Entertainment

BEST SPECIALTY RENTALS

Eclectic Hive

Denver eclectichive.com | 303.295.0519 RUNNERS-UP: Fun Productions; Chairs Covers & Linen Denver

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER

From the Hip Photo

Aurora fromthehipphoto.com | 720.390.5995 RUNNERS-UP: All Digital Photo & Video; Studio JK Photography

P H O T O : D E V I L ’ S T H U M B R A N C H R E S O R T & S PA

BEST AUDIO-VISUAL PROVIDER Ideally situated in one of Denver’s newest and most urban community gathering spots is From the Hip Photo, first-time winner of Best Photographer/Videographer. A husband-and-wife duo, Nina and Danny de Zayas, with a full-time team of five have become known for running a business that offers clever alternatives to static shots. A plus is they have regular weekday hours where you can drop in, a rarity in today’s virtual marketplace.

There was another upset in the technology category, PSAV took home top prize for Best Audio-Visual Provider. With 40 partner

locations throughout the Front Range and a handful in the mountains, the company is uniquely in touch with trends and venues and able to both localize and amplify meetings and events.

Halcyon made a splash by knocking off a four-year consecutive winner for Best Hotel or Resort with Meeting/Event Space in Denver Metro (200 or Less Guest Rooms). Maybe it was the rooftop pool and bar or the Gear Garage? The views of Cherry Creek, downtown Denver and the surrounding Rocky Mountains are stunning and event perfect.

What’s the trendiest drink to order for your

PSAV

Denver psav.com | 720.343.7882 RUNNERS-UP: J&S Audio Visual; Image Audiovisuals

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT WITH MEETING/EVENT SPACE IN DENVER METRO (200 or Less Guest Rooms)

Halcyon

Cherry Creek halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com 720.772.5000 RUNNERS-UP: the ART, a hotel; JW Marriott Denver Cherry Creek

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The Winners BEST TRANSPORTATION PROVIDER

Epic Mountain Express

Edwards epicmountainexpress.com | 970.754.7433 RUNNERS-UP: Hermes Worldwide Transportation; Jay’s Valet

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT WITH MEETING/EVENT SPACE OUTSIDE DENVER METRO (200 or Less Guest Rooms)

Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa

Tabernash devilsthumbranch.com | 970.726.5632 RUNNERS-UP: C Lazy U Ranch; Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort & Spa

BEST RENTAL SERVICE PROVIDER Event Rents

Englewood eventrents.net | 303.972.0975 RUNNERS-UP: Butler Rents; Colorado Party Rentals

BEST RESTAURANT/BAR WITH PRIVATE DINING SPACE Coohills

Denver coohills.com | 303.623.5700 RUNNERS-UP: Grace & Guard; Punch Bowl Social

BEST MEETING/EVENT VENUE OUTSIDE DENVER METRO Spruce Mountain Ranch

Larkspur sprucemountainevents.com | 719.484.0800 RUNNERS-UP: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo; Copper Mountain Resort

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT WITH MEETING/ EVENT SPACE IN DENVER METRO

(More than 200 Guest Rooms)

The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa

Denver brownpalace.com | 303.297.3111 RUNNERS-UP: Four Seasons Hotel Denver; Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center

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next poolside event? It might just be the Halcyon Horizon, a signature combination of Halcyon Rum, Luxardo apricot liqueur, lime juice and honey syrup. Yum! In the July 2018, Colorado Mountain Express announced that its name has changed to Epic Mountain Express, which pairs well with owner Vail Resorts’ well-known Epic Pass. Driving home the top prize for Best Transportation Provider, Epic Mountain Express offers 16 scheduled departures out of DEN going door-todoor to all hotels, condos, private residences and more in Summit and Eagle County.

Both luxury and economical transportation

options are available for groups with a fleet of 250 vehicles.

For the fifth consecutive year, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa wins for Best Hotel or Resort with Meeting/Event Space outside Denver Metro (200 or Less Guest Rooms) by constantly upgrading and offering top quality. “We are nearing the end of a pool expansion project, including a large addition to the pool deck, a permanent pool bar and cabanas. Really, the focus has been on bringing the service levels up and highlighting the sustainable property with a focus on experience, including outstanding culinary (our very own Wagyu beef

P H OTO : C A R R I E K I N G P H OTO G R A P H Y

(No Hotel)

“I love how our guests take such an interest in our herd of black angus cows and the [agriculture] industry when they come to a Spruce Mountain event. However, we do have to warn our groups that although our cows are quite majestic, they do have a sense of humor.

One day, I saw a group of our cows and their calves near the fence. Dressed in my best for an event, I walked over to see if I could call them over and pet them, thinking I was the cow whisperer. I picked up a handful of grass, held it out, and low and behold a mama cow came walking toward me. This is not common. Cows are shy and protective animals. As she got just within arms reach, she sneezed!

I was covered in cow goo. After she sneezed she casually turned around, and I know she was giggling as she strutted away,” shares Tara Ames, owner of Spruce Mountain Events.

EVENT RENTS

P H OTO : C A R R I E K I N G P H OTO G R A P H Y

herd) and a wide array of outdoor mountain activities such as stables and a spa,” says Senior Director of Sales Thad Carlson.

Like VISIT DENVER, Event Rents has won Best Rental Service Provider 13 consecutive times since the inception of these readers’ choice awards. Last year there was a rare first-place tie between the company and Butler Rents; however, the long-standing company took back the reigns of a solo first-place finish to solidify their standing as one of the Rocky Mountain’s best rental provider.

After a runners-up finish in 2017 and a year off in 2018, Denver’s Coohills cooked up

a delicious win as Best Restaurant/Bar with Private Dining Space. What makes the restaurant stand out as a group gathering place?

Private dining options are available for six to 600 guests, and choices include the Wewatta Room, Cherry Creek Room, main dining room, Wine Room, bar and terrace or a total venue buyout. There are views, accessible parking, a variety of menus and the all-important outside space. Grace & Guard and Punch Bowl Social are new to the list of finalists for this category.

It’s the seventh win for Spruce Mountain Ranch in the Best Meeting/Event Venue outside Denver Metro (No Hotel) category.

The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa is very familiar with top prize as Best Hotel or Resort with Meeting/Event Space in Denver Metro (More than 200 Guest Rooms).

Consistent group events and tourists for tea, the historic hotel see hundreds or thousands of visitors each day. We asked veteran chief concierge and member of Les Clefs d’Or USA Zac Johnson for insider information. » What is the most asked question? “‘Where is the bathroom?’ is the winner in sheer numbers; however, questions about dining are the most common as it relates to my profession.” » What is your most recommended restaurant? “Based on its proximity, consistency, popularity of the type of cuisine that they feature and overall excellence, Guard & Grace takes the title.” » What is the silliest question? “Is this a hotel?” » What is the craziest thing you have arranged? “I once dressed up as the Easter bunny and delivered Easter baskets full of goodies to a room at the request of a family staying with us for the holiday.” » Guests come from everywhere, but where is the most common location?

“Anecdotally, I would say from other parts of Colorado. As an icon of the state, it makes sense that this is the case.”

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2019 Hall of Fame BY BETH BUEHLER

P H OTO S BY TAT E C A R L S O N at The Maven Hotel, Denver

We salute seven Colorado meetings and events industry pros for their expertise, enthusiasm and involvement.

COLORADO MEETINGS + EVENTS IS PROUD TO INTRODUCE OUR 2019 HALL OF FAME, MADE UP OF SEVEN TOP-NOTCH INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE POSITIVELY IMPACTING THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY. OUR EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD, COMPOSED OF INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS FROM AROUND THE STATE, NOMINATED AND SELECTED THIS YEAR’S

INDUCTEES FOR THEIR UNIQUE CONTRIBUTIONS AND COMMITTED DEDICATION. NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR, THE HALL OF FAME HAS 84 DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS. 42

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Lifetime Achievement Bruce Horii

DIR EC T OR OF S A L ES & M A R KE T ING, BE AV ER R UN R ESOR T & C ONFER ENC E C EN T ER CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

» Started career in Winter Park selling to ski groups and moved on to Village at Breckenridge as associate director of sales » GM of Peter Glenn Travel and Tours, transitioned company from a retail travel agency to full-service ski tour operator » Director of sales at Sheraton Steamboat Resort in Steamboat Springs » Joined Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center in Breckenridge as director of sales and marketing in 2000 » Has served as a board member for Destination Colorado, CSAE, SGMP and recently helped start the Mountain Meeting Alliance » Also has been active with the Colorado Tourism Office, Tourism Industry Association of Colorado, Colorado Association of Destination Marketing Organizations, Colorado Hotel and Lodging Association and PCMA

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY “Beaver Run has been fortunate to host many of our groups annually and those groups have many participants and leaders that are more than just a source of business but truly friends. Similar on the supplier side, I have formed bonds with so many people that I have lifetime relationships; this is how I met my wife, Donna.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE “My hope is that meetings and events continue to prosper and flourish. It gives me a great sense of fulfillment when groups return to Beaver Run because they have accomplished their goals or had such a wonderful time, which means we did something right.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY Horii recommends getting involved, taking on an active role in keeping the industry vibrant and relevant, and learning from people who have been successful in their careers and relationships. “Find out what your clients are trying to accomplish with their meeting or event and take an active role in making them successful.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED “The industry is evolving on the technology front, not only with the content of the meetings and events but how communication occurs.

My fear is that we will move away from collaboration and relationships toward a more impersonal mode of communication and stray from achieving goals to enabling transactions.”

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BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY “This industry represents excitement, possibility, opportunity and connection. I love that there is an inherent buzz around meeting and events.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE “I really hope this industry shifts to be more environmentally responsible. One challenging aspect of my job is seeing a lot of waste, whether it is food, paper or giveaways. I would love to see the industry as whole move toward more sustainable events and meetings and eliminate as much waste as we can.”

Best Meeting Professional Cara Miller, CMP

SENIOR M A N A GER , E V EN T S & P R ODUC T ION SER V IC ES, C H A R L ES SC H WA B CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

» Hired as an administrative assistant for Denver office of Jackson National Life in 2008 » Recession layoffs happened soon after and only a few weeks before a large national sales meeting, and Miller was asked to help run the event » Within the year, moved into an event planner role permanently and worked her way up to event and meeting planning manager » Became senior manager, events and production services for Charles Schwab in Denver in 2016 and manages large corporate events across the country » Has assisted nonprofit fundraising events such as Colorado I Have a Dream Foundation Gala and Colorado Avalanche Charity Brunch

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ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY “I think connection is the key.

Especially in the world we live in now. So much of our business world now takes place digitally, and in-person events and meetings offer a different and irreplaceable way of doing business. I would recommend finding ways to keep the focal point of the event on making sure your attendees benefit from that connection.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED Miller observes that nearly everything has become customizable. “You can customize your own cocktail or your own power bowl in a lunch buffet. We have customization of schedules and agenda tracks for clients to get exactly what they need and want from an event, only attending what pertains to them. Even activities can be customized, like a silent disco where the attendees have a choice of what music to listen to!”

Up-andComing Meeting Professional Nikki Bibbero, CMP MEE T ING A R C HI T EC T, KINSL E Y MEE T INGS CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

» Worked as a waitress and bartender, which prompted a hospitality management degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver » Manager in training at Denver Marriott City Center, working with restaurants and banquets » Accepted a job with Kinsley Meetings three years ago » Earned the CMP designation and Healthcare Meeting Compliance Certificate » Director of recruitment for the MPIRMC Board of Directors and received chapter’s 2016-2017 Rising Star award

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY “As a planner we work for weeks, months and years doing all of the behind-the-scenes prep work and planning to get ready for one monumental event. Day in and day out it can seem that the final product will never come to fruition, but when it happens it’s a magical moment.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE “I want to continue surrounding myself with people and experiences that will push me, challenge me, and help me grow as a person and a planner. I am eager to work on the special events side of this industry, to work with large-scale clients and events, and to continue traveling throughout the world and country executing top-notch events.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY Her main tip is getting involved. “I owe a large portion of my success to my industry involvement, which has helped foster great connections and relationships that have gotten me where I am today.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED “People that attend events are always wanting to be wowed with cutting-edge ways to learn in a meeting or with neverbefore-seen décor and entertainment,” she says. “I think we will continue to try to stay at the top of the curve for technology, entertainment and design throughout all of our events, as that is what is in demand from attendees.”

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BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“The challenges, the travel, the people, exceeding expectations … ultimately, seeing the joy on guests’ faces when they have an amazing time at one of my events. It’s somewhat a thankless industry, so I personally live for the strokes of a job well done.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“I genuinely feel that I’ve achieved my dream. I’m an entrepreneur at heart, and I’ve wanted to own my own business since I started out. After years of learning from so many greats in the industry, I finally felt it was time to jump!

My plans/dreams include building my business to just the right manageable amount so I can work hard (but not too hard), play hard, and keep doing what I love for as long as possible.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

“From an advice standpoint I could go on for hours. Get involved in outside organizations and show up. Learn how to close a sale, become a ‘yes’ person if you aren’t one already, and take advantage of every resource you have available.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“The evolution of technology has made planning somewhat less personal over time. What used to be face-to-face meetings are now phone calls. Phone calls are now emails, and emails are now texts. … However, it’s nice to be able to generate a to-scale diagram in less than 15 minutes and have it around the world in less than 30 seconds. And being able to use a small handheld device (my phone) to basically run my business from anywhere in the world is also quite a nice perk.”

Best Special Events Professional Deirdre Wildman HOSP I TA L I TA R I A N & O W NER , C HR YS A L IS HOSP I TA L I T Y

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CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

» Started career in corporate brand development and advertising » Worked as an event planner and director of sales and marketing for Three Tomatoes Catering in Denver » Hired as an event designer for 451 Events/Catering by Design (now By Design Collective) » Served as GM of MorEvents before launching Denver-based Chrysalis Hospitality in 2017 » Has produced more than 10,000 events and been recognized with several awards » Serves on the American Red Cross and Global Livingston Institute board of directors

Up-and-Coming Special Events Professional Katherine Frost

FOUNDER , A FR OS T ED A FFA IR

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

» Growing up in Houston, Texas, her family entertained on a regular basis at home. » Ski instructor at Beaver Creek Resort in Colorado » Worked for Destination Services Corporation (DSC) in Denver as a sales and account coordinator » Established Denver-based A Frosted Affair in 2015

to plan corporate and nonprofit events and weddings

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“I love that every day and every client is different, and it is incredibly rewarding to know that I’ve created a meeting or event tailored to a client’s specific needs. … Thinking through elements such as color combinations, visualizing a room, seeing the event unfold, and making that vision a reality really gets me excited about events!”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE “My main goal right now is to continue growing and cultivating an amazing team and working with local clients that grant us the privilege of planning all of their events. I would also love to expand our work to collaborate more with clients visiting the state for their events.” She adds, “I’m very interested in developing a software program that helps streamline the planning process which makes it easier to create events for both the planner and the client.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

“On one hand you have to keep the big picture in mind, but on the other you can never overlook the small details. There are always a lot of moving parts to plan for and come event time, when you’re looking at all those parts and the people in that moment, you have to be able to change things gracefully if anything just isn’t going right.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“Denver has become a very hot market for events, not only due to the influx of people moving here or businesses developing new headquarters here, but because of an increase in out-of-state groups holding events in and around the city. With that increase in demand, I have seen more and more venues with less and less availability within a year of an event date.”

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BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“The commitment that meetings and events industry personnel make to pull off the impossible never ceases to amaze me. I have never been associated with a more committed group.

The attitude is never ‘no’ it’s always ‘let me see what I can do.’ The meetings and events industry always manages to bring calm to the chaos.”

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“My goal is to develop Hermes into the pre-eminent transportation supplier by providing experienced personnel who understand how to meet the challenges of a fluid event and doing our part to create the wow effect.” Sanchez also emphasizes the importance of making a challenging request a reality as part of the equation. “Clients don’t want to hear no.

They want to walk away from the event with a lasting feeling, and our job is to make that happen.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“No matter the size of the event, the lead time has shrunk from months to weeks. Clients are demanding more near-demand services in all aspects and are more focused on a personalized experience. When so much of our industry has been commoditized, the personalized experience is what will create a lasting impression.”

Best Supplier Jorge Sanchez

P R ESIDEN T & L E A D DE TA IL ER , HER MES W OR L D W IDE T R A NSP OR TAT ION CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

» A seasoned business professional with more than two decades of experience in the banking, aerospace, consulting, technology and chauffeured industries » Worked for IBM, JD Edwards, FirstBank, TCI, Honeywell Aerospace and Avaya before starting Hermes in 2007 » Since then, Hermes has established itself as a full-service ground transportation company offering a fleet of options from sedans to motor coaches as well as event planning services

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P H OTO O F J O R G E : F R O M T H E H I P P H OTO G R A P H Y

Sanchez suggests being flexible with service offerings and remembering that “the one constant is change.”

He says, “Any competent person can plan an event. To stand out you have to talk to your client and listen to what they want to achieve from the event. Add your personal touch to make it memorable.”

Up-and-Coming Supplier Meg Palumbo

N AT ION A L S A L ES M A N A GER , T HE S T E A MBO AT GR A ND

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

» At age 16, the Colorado native started working in the hospitality industry at The Golden Hotel in Golden as a hostess » Graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in hospitality management » Completed Marriott’s Management Development Trainee Program, which led to working at Marriott properties in Denver, Chicago, Dallas and Minneapolis » Currently is employed as a national sales manager for The Steamboat Grand in Steamboat Springs and serves as a Destination Colorado board member

P H OTO O F J O R G E : F R O M T H E H I P P H OTO G R A P H Y

HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

BEST THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN THE MEETINGS AND EVENTS INDUSTRY

“People are what make the meetings and events industry dynamic, innovative and inspiring. Our meetings and events industry is revolutionary, and I enjoy being part of something where I am surrounded by people I learn from.”

“My dream is to spread genuine Steamboat hospitality to as many people as possible. By continuing to grow and learn from a community that has given me so much, I hope to become a leader in the industry that excites the next generation of meeting and event professionals.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO THE INDUSTRY

Palumbo recommends attending as many industry events as possible and connecting with an individual who can provide guidance. “Our Colorado meetings and events industry is incredibly active. Get out of the office

and meet the industry’s movers and shakers.” She adds, “Find a mentor, learn from them by listening. … Ask them to challenge you, introduce you to their network, and you will be in awe by the relationships this industry creates.”

WAYS THE INDUSTRY HAS EVOLVED

“Human connection, collaboration and a strengthened community are what our stakeholders are striving for, and the meetings and events industry delivers! Our industry is creating new ways for people to connect, collaborate and bond through shared experiences that build, cultivate and strengthen attendees.”

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION C Lazy U Ranch catering

Take in the views on the terrace at the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Host your soirée on the plaza and take in the views of the skyline

VENUES UNVEILED

AEG Live Entertainment giant AEG Presents Rocky Mountains will be opening The Mission Ballroom in August of 2019 providing Denver with a new world-class venue for concerts and special events.

This 60,000-square-foot venue is the centerpiece of North Wynkoop, a new development by Westfield Company located between 40th and 43rd street along Brighton Boulevard, in the RiNo Arts District.

With features including a moving stage that provides flexible capacity, unrivaled sight lines and state-of-the-art sound and lights, the Mission will bring to Colorado the most cutting-edge concert and special event experience in the west.

The Mission will also offer rising rows and a large main floor to allow for versatility in event planning. For special events, the venue will accommodate 50

COM+E | SPRING 2019

receptions of up to 2,000 individuals and seated dinners of up to 700 guests. Take advantage of the opportunity to host a corporate event, meeting, reception, concert, party, award show or gala in Denver’s newest venue.

AEG currently produces concerts and hosts special events at the Bluebird Theater, the Gothic Theatre, the Ogden Theatre, 1stBank Center and Fiddler's Green Amphitheater.

C Lazy U Ranch C Lazy U Ranch is known for being one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets when it comes to unique venues. Not only is the ranch situated in an amazing location, but it also remains genuine to its roots dating back to 1919. C Lazy U Ranch is proud to be celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and there’s a reason groups and guest come back year after year.

The ranch prides itself on delivering

outstanding five-star service in a relaxed family atmosphere, which makes it an ideal destination for strategic planning, executive retreats or team-building adventures.

Known as Colorado’s premier luxury guest ranch getaway, C Lazy U is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains— only two hours from Denver—making it one of the most accessible mountain meeting options. It is one of the few remaining places where groups can reunite and experience a productive retreat that incorporates the traditions of the great American west in a luxurious mountain setting. On top of that, the food is amazing and the activities are endless.

There is truly something for everyone and the property features a collection of luxury cabin accommodations, fine dining, a full-service “Lazy You” spa, and 8,500 acres of adventure playground.

P H OTO S : ( TO P ) C L A Z Y U R A N C H ; ( B OT TO M ) C H I L D R E N ' S M U S E U M O F D E N V E R

With seemingly endless property possibilities in The Centennial State, finding the perfect venue can take some expertise. Look no further than this showcase of top-notch Colorado settings.

UNIQUE CELEBRATIONS

HAPPEN HERE

The ranch can also host a wide array of meetings on property. Meeting room options include the Historic Hay Barn, the charming Patio House or the new Latigo Meeting Room, which has the perfect combination of modern meeting room needs combined with western elegance and sophistication. It is no wonder that C Lazy U Ranch was a finalist for the Best Renovation and Best Hotel or Resort with Meeting/Event Space - outside Denver Metro for the Colorado Meetings + Events Best of 2019 reader’s choice awards.

Denver's Most Unique Venue

Children's Museum of Denver In the heart of downtown Denver, a slice of whimsy and imagination awaits. Plus, with spring upon us, nobody does outdoor events like the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus. For those looking to plan a wedding, corporate picnic or family reunion, the Museum’s plaza is ideal for everything from a casual daytime BBQ to a formal affair illuminated by the stunning lights of the city.

Joy Park, the Museum’s 32,000-squarefoot outdoor experience, can be added onto any plaza rental, and features sand dunes, a canyon and river system, and dueling zip lines. Plus, the highly anticipated Adventure Forest, a 500-foot long aerial adventure course and immersive, exploratory sculpture is coming soon (opening dates to be determined). For indoor events, their refined and customizable spaces come with a wrap-around terrace, captivating views of Denver’s skyline and Elitch Gardens, and a beautiful kitchen for guests or caterers.

Amenities include ample free parking, state-of-the-art A/V, complimentary tables and chairs, and top-of-the-line preferred vendors who know how to incorporate the unique setup of the museum to elevate your event. Take in the views, zip through the air and release your inner child.

City of Loveland Meeting and event planners have found the sweet spot of Colorado event space— Loveland. With one of the top Embassy Suites in the world, the sprawling Ranch Events Complex and a new downtown

Conveniently located with access to the lightraIL i ELITCHGARDENS.COM FOr a personal site tour, call 303.572.4531

Join US

&BE the

difference!

Rocky Mountain Chapter of PCMA: Leader in the Meetings and Events Industry

Delivering breakthrough education.

Promoting the value of professional convention management.

Breaking the mold with innovative member driven content.

STAY CONNECTED!

If you have any questions on how to be involved in RMPCMA please contact Ashley Montoya at ashley@imigroup.org or RockyMountain@pcma.org.

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FOR PROOF ONLY - PROOF 3 Magazine Ad will run: Colorado M+E, Spring 2016 Ad Size: 1/6 horizontal 4.625”x2.375”

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Denver Place Aerial view of Elitch Gardens

Denver Botanic Gardens' outdoor pavillion

hotel opening this summer, Loveland has options for everyone.

Conveniently located off I-25 only 45 minutes north of Denver and 35 minutes east of Rocky Mountain National Park, Loveland’s 400,000 plus square feet of event space is more expansive and diverse than communities twice its size.

Meetings are effortless and affordable in Loveland; it’s accessible to get to, close to the mountains and full of things to do, all with free parking and a lower tax rate than Denver.

The Embassy Suites Loveland has one of the largest hotel ballrooms in Colorado and offers over 59,000 square feet of flexible meeting space that can accommodate more than 3,000 attendees. The Ranch offers 375,000 square feet of event space that can be configured for multiple options.

This summer, the 102-room TownePlace Suites by Marriott opens in Loveland’s thriving downtown with options to meet on-site and/or at unique urban venues nearby.

New this year—bring your group to Colorado’s largest "LOVE" lock sculpture for unique photo opportunities and more.

Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Botanic Gardens offers builtin beauty and entertainment for your event, retreat, or meeting. The cultivated landscapes and interior displays include ever-changing native, exotic and tropical 52

COM+E | SPRING 2019

plants for a lush, vivid backdrop. Imagine hosting your office party in the Annuals Garden & Pavilion, which features bursts of color from gorgeous annuals and is bordered by a waterway spilling over with water lilies in the summer. Or bring your retreat to Mitchell Hall—which has a stage, sound and lighting capabilities, and can accommodate a projector—and then take a docent-led tour.

Multiple rental sites, both indoor and outdoor, can be combined to create the ideal site for any event. A popular choice is the West Terrace, a tented space with twinkle lights that overlooks Monet Pool.

It can be combined with the Orangery for an indoor/outdoor option.

Included with rentals is access to the Gardens’ annual art exhibition. This year features Human | Nature, which explores the human form in both classical and abstract styles, from the 20th century to today, and is on view April 19-Sept. 15.

Additionally, the Gardens works with award-winning caterers to help make each rental unique and special. Whatever your occasion is, it will be memorable at the Gardens.

Denver Place Denver Place is an event venue unlike any other. The property is conveniently located in downtown Denver and is within walking distance to the Colorado

Elitch Gardens Located in the heart of Denver and celebrating 129 years of fun, Elitch Gardens is Colorado’s only world-class combination theme and water park. It really is a venue that leaves your guests with memories they will never forget. Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park atmosphere is naturally themed in a fun and entertaining way, perfect for groups of ten to 10,000 individuals. With indoor and outdoor meeting space, thrilling rides, live entertainment, and breathtaking city and mountain views, the park offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Planners can choose from four private areas in the Mountain Grove Pavilions: the elegant Trocadero Theatre, the expansive space of the Elitch Arena or a partial or full park buyout. The Elitch Gardens team will tailor you event exactly to your needs and create a truly unique event.

Visitors to the park this season can enjoy the first artist-driven dark ride Meow Wolf’s Kaleidoscape. The ride is a mind-bending voyage of creative discovery through transforming, artistdesigned landscapes. There’s some-

P H OTO S : ( TO P L E F T ) C I T Y O F LOV E L A N D ; ( TO P R I G H T ) D E N V E R P L AC E ; ( B O T T O M L E F T ) D E N V E R B O TA N I C A L G A R D E N S ; ( B O T T O M R I G H T ) E L I T C H G A R D E N S

City of Loveland's "LOVE" sculpture

Convention Center and Denver Center for the Performing Arts, and sits adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton, Denver. Denver Place offers a subterranean parking garage and valet options and is easily accessible via public transportation.

Exceptional, high quality on-site catering options are available, as well as an abundant preferred catering list. Denver Place is the exclusive location for Kevin Taylor’s Mila and Aspen’s featured Latin bistro, Zocalito, which has now relocated to Denver.

The Grand Stair at Denver Place features amphitheater seating, ideal for presentations and a lounge area perfect for lunch buffets, breakout sessions, or signature bars. The Park is a unique, architecturally inspired outdoor space that makes a perfect setting for bridal luncheons or evening receptions.

Denver Place is a unique, upscale, event venue that will transcend your next corporate gathering, symposium, reception or holiday party.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Mishawaka Amphitheatre live concert and raffle event

thing for everyone, with 54 rides and attractions, including 14 pint-sized adventures, thrilling roller coasters and an entire water park.

“Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park is able to provide your group with the most unique experience,” says Lisa Miller, general sales manager. “We are able to customize any event and pro-

vide lasting memories. We are not just a theme park, we are a destination.”

Mishawaka Amphitheatre Nature regularly steals the spotlight at the legendary Mishawaka Amphitheatre. The wild and scenic Cache la Poudre River is literally showcased backstage at this outdoor arena known for its live concert

experiences, “The Mish” is already known as a Colorado go-to for making musical memories. But between all the encores and sound checks, the Mishawaka also acts as a breathtaking backdrop for a variety of private events, playing host to business retreats, birthday parties, family reunions, weddings, meetings and more.

Offering indoor meetings with a view, space for riverfront rehearsals and ceremonies, a historic hall for dining and dancing, and starlit spots for contemplation and inspiration within the canyon walls, the venue makes room for both casual blue-sky gatherings and starlit black-tie affairs (with the occasional glimpse of a mountain goat herd never out of the realm of possibility).

Partnerships with outdoor recreation and exploration organizations widen the horizon for experiential events, and a breath of fresh air is always available as an antidote to traditional confer-

MAKE YOUR EVENT FLOURISH!

P H O T O S : M I S H AWA K A A M P H I T H E AT R E

P H OTO S : ( TO P L E F T ) C I T Y O F LOV E L A N D ; ( TO P R I G H T ) D E N V E R P L AC E ; ( B O T T O M L E F T ) D E N V E R B O TA N I C A L G A R D E N S ; ( B O T T O M R I G H T ) E L I T C H G A R D E N S

Have your event at one of Denver’s treasured landmarks. Twenty-four acres of natural beauty, indoor and outdoor sites for large or small events, award-winning catering options and more.

10th & York Street botanicgardens.org

BOOK TODAY! Call 720-865-3551 or email private.events@botanicgardens.org

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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40,027

NEW REASONS TO HOST YOUR EVENT IN PUEBLO

NOW OPEN! Over 40,000 sq. ft of newly expanded and remodeled space. Featuring a brand new exhibit hall right on the Pueblo Riverwalk. Call us to book your next event.

719.542.1100 320 Central Main St. Pueblo, Colorado 81003 PuebloConventionCenter.com

ence settings and agendas. Taking a break from the everyday event center experience is easy, with shuttle service available from nearby Fort Collins, and a robust catering menu that highlights grill and garden standouts.

Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Denver, Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver provides the perfect backdrop for your next meeting or event.

With over 4,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and catering from our beloved Italian restaurant, Panzano, you’ll be swept away

by Hotel Monaco Denver’s vibe of playful, whimsical elegance.

Come share your Monaco Moment with us.

1717 Champa Street | Denver, CO 80202 303.296.1717 | monaco-denver.com | #MonacoDenver 54

COM+E | SPRING 2019

The Pueblo Convention Center is now available for booking with 44,027 total square feet of expanded and remodeled premium event space. With traffic–driving signature dishes that the well-traveled and well-fed customer can’t stop craving, you can ditch convention and eat exquisite meals as the executive chefs have created a menu that utilizes high quality, in-the-moment ingredients and flavors from a dynamic network of top-shelf vendors to spar patrons’ appetites.

The elegant atmosphere, upscale amenities and experienced staff, coupled with the convention center’s idyllic location along Pueblo’s Historic Arkansas Riverwalk, make for an unprecedented event experience. The recent improvements present unique opportunities for the center to serve as a multiuse facility with the ability to host large trade shows and other events. Pueblo is one of only 14 communities in the United States to feature an urban riverwalk adjacent to a convention center.

Join friends, family, peers and co-

P H OTO : P U E B LO CO N V E N T I O N C E N T E R

Pueblo Convention Center

Pueblo Convention Center

workers to discover unique moments at the Pueblo Convention Center for a lavish reception, intimate gathering, board meeting or trade show, where all of the details will be taken care of so all that remains is lasting memories.

sip. sun. celebrate.

With sophisticated indoor and outdoor spaces and beautiful views, we can help make your event unforgettably fabulous!

Take a tour today!

Contact rentals@cmdenver.org or 303-561-0116.

mychildsmuseum.org

GET CONNECTED AEG LIVE missionballroom.com 720.931.8713 | 303.906.3507 C LAZY U RANCH clazyu.com info@clazyu.com 970.887.5926 CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF DENVER mychildsmuseum.org rentals@cmdenver.org 303.561.0116 CITY OF LOVELAND visitlovelandco.org 970.667.3882 DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS botanicgardens.org 720.865.3551 DENVER PLACE denverplace.com 303.243.3823 ELITCH GARDENS elitchgardens.com 303.572.4531 MISHAWAKA AMPHITHEATRE themishawaka.com 888.843.6474 PUEBLO CONVENTION CENTER puebloconventioncenter.com 719.542.1100

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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Industry Update HOTELS & RESORTS 64

PEOPLE NEWS

68

SNAPSHOTS 70

PEOPLE PROFILE 72

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT Restaurant and food service operators are integrating sustainability practices into their daily business operations.

T

Research courtesy of National Restaurant Association

he National Restaurant Association examined what measures restaurateurs are taking to conserve resources and operate more sustainably. The association surveyed 500 restaurant owners and operators about their environmental efforts and sustainability opportunities and challenges within their operations. More than 1,000 consumers also were surveyed about the best methods for restaurants to promote sustainability practices to customers.

The results show that restaurants of all types are innovating and making progress. From independent operators to large restaurant chains, the food service industry is reducing its energy and water consumption, minimizing waste creation, and connecting with environmentally aware guests. Read the full study at restaurant.org/newsresearch/research/state-of-restaurant-sustainability.

WHAT WATER-SAVING EQUIPMENT DO RESTAURANTS USE? LOW-FLUSH TOILETS 44% FAUCET AERATORS* 27% HIGH-EFFICIENCY PRE-RINSE SPRAY VALVES 26% TANKLESS WATER HEATER 24% MOTION-ACTIVATED TOILETS OR FAUCETS 21% WATERLESS URINALS 11%

Energy & Water Hospitality businesses (including hotels) and food service operations account for nearly 15 percent of commercial/institutional water use in the United States, according to

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the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense program.

In a typical full-service restaurant, food preparation drives more than a third of energy consumption, according to the EPA’s Energy Star Guide for Cafés, Restaurants, and Institutional Kitchens.

*Adding these devices—which cost about $3 each—can reduce hot-water use at a hand sink by 60 percent. Based on as little as 15 minutes of use per day, installing just one faucet aerator could save 9,000 gallons of hot water per year.

INFOGRAPHIC

79%

Managing Waste

of restaurant operators use CFL or LED lighting

56%

of restaurant operators say they buy at least some packaging or supplies that are certified as compostable

61%

72%

of restaurant operators say they buy at least some packaging or supplies that contain recycled materials

of restaurant operators use programmable HVAC thermostats

PERCENT OF RESTAURANTS THAT RECYCLE:

PERCENT OF RESTAURANT OPERATORS THAT USE ENERGY STAR-RATED APPLIANCES:

46% REFRIGERATORS 41% FREEZERS 41% ICEMAKERS 25% DISHWASHERS 22% FRYERS

65%

CARDBOARD AND PAPER

64%

FATS, OILS AND GREASE

29%

ALUMINUM OR METAL CANS

29%

RIGID PLASTICS

26%

GLASS

14%

of restaurant operators say they compost at least some food waste

PERCENT OF RESTAURANT OPERATORS THAT CITE THE FOLLOWING REASONS FOR NOT COMPOSTING FOOD WASTE:

39% LACK OF COMPOSTING FACILITY 36% INSUFFICIENT SPACE 27% TRANSPORTATION CONSTRAINTS 26% DON’T KNOW HOW TO GET STARTED 25% PEST OR ODOR CONCERNS 23% MANAGEMENT OR BUILDING CONSTRAINTS 15% LOCAL ORDINANCES AND REGULATIONS 31% OTHER/DON’T KNOW

Consumer Insight Environment sustainability ranked as the No. 9 restaurant trend in the National Restaurant Association’s “What’s Hot” annual survey of American Culinary Federation chefs for 2018.

PERCENT OF CONSUMERS WHO CONSIDER THESE IMPORTANT FACTORS WHEN THEY CHOOSE A RESTAURANT: Does the restaurant make efforts to reduce food waste?

55%

Does the restaurant recycle things like plastic, bottles and cans?

51%

Does the restaurant donate leftover foods?

50%

Does the restaurant conserve energy and water?

45%

Does the restaurant use environmentally friendly packaging?

45%

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REGIONAL NEWS

Maxline Brewing Adds Meeting & Event Space In less than three years, Maxline Brewing in Fort Collins has more than doubled its space by adding a private meeting and event space and second patio, installing a canning line and three more fermentation tanks, and introducing a barrel aging space. Groups of up to 20 can reserve The Brewers Lounge, which features food, refreshments and computer/ audio options.

Steamboat Ski Resort Changes up Food Scene The complete overhaul of Bear River into Timber & Torch has resulted in a new centerpiece restaurant for Steamboat Ski Resort’s Gondola Square. The renovation has resulted in indoor seating for 290, a new outdoor

Timber & Torch

heated patio, two indoor/outdoor bars, an exterior fireplace and a new outdoor grill.

Named for the resort’s legendary trees and Olympian heritage, Timber & Torch features gastropub-inspired food, an extensive craft beer lineup and signature craft cocktails. Also, the popular Umbrella Bar has moved from the base area to Rendezvous Lodge, providing additional indoor/outdoor bar service.

Denver Airport Brewery Reflects Colorado Tom’s Urban Kitchen and Brewery has opened at The Westin Denver International Airport and pairs the cuisine of Tom’s Urban with the craft beers of Tivoli Brewery. Designed by JGA Architects and built by White Construction Group, Tom’s Urban Kitchen and Brewery is the first complete brewing operation at the airport and features a beer tower with 32 taps and a viewing window to observe beer being

made. The décor includes beetle kill pine floating ceilings and benches, industrial light fixtures, metal fabrications, 40 TVs and original art throughout. Ample outdoor seating is available on the terrace with fire pits, planters and string lighting.

Fogo de Chão Opens Second Denver-Area Location The Brazilian steakhouse, Fogo de Chão, opened a location in Lone Tree at Park Meadows Mall in November. The eatery features two fully functioning levels, each equipped with its own churrasco grill, Market Table, bar, private event spaces and patio.

Fogo specializes in combining the southern Brazilian cooking technique of churrasco (roasting high-quality cuts of meats over an open flame) with a continuous service model known as “espeto corrido.” The kitchen team butchers all of the meats in-house and is led by Head Gaucho and Corporate Trainer Roberto DeMoura, who is originally from Parana, Brazil. fogodechao.com

Improper City Opens 12,000-Square-Foot Patio A new outdoor space more than doubles the customer area of Improper City, which has a specialty coffee shop on one side of its 8,000-square-foot interior and a 36-tap bar serving craft beer, wines and draft cocktails on the other. It’s a perfect place for groups to relax outdoors, gather around four fire pits and play bocce ball and corn hole. Four to six food trucks are available in two shifts on peak days, while two trucks are in residence other days.

Historic Longmont Building Buzzing with Food, Drink and Music Dry Land Distillers, located in downtown Longmont, hosted a grand opening weekend in late October to showcase its historic building location at 471 Main Street and release its new Pure Cane Rum. The building also is home to a New Orleans French Quarter-style café, La Vita Bella, and a live music venue that holds more than 200 guests.

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P H O T O : L A R R Y P I E R C E / S T E A M B O AT S K I R E S O R T ; (OPPOSITE) BROOKE BUCHAN/THE COLLEGIAN

FOOD & BEVERAGE»

P H O T O : L A R R Y P I E R C E / S T E A M B O AT S K I R E S O R T ; (OPPOSITE) BROOKE BUCHAN/THE COLLEGIAN

BeaverCreekGroups@wynvr.com | 866-604-5152 | TheCharter.com VailGroups@wynvr.com | 866-820-6549 | LionSquare.com

LITTLE MAN ICE CREAM EXPANDS TO FORT COLLINS

Old Town Churn Ice Cream, the latest retail concept by Denver-based Little Man Ice Cream Company, has opened in downtown Fort Collins. Housed in a 26-foot-tall ice cream churn crafted from fir wood and accented with a 2,000-pound forged steel hand crank, Old Town Churn pays tribute to the agricultural roots upon which Fort Collins was built. The shop serves a rotating lineup of Little Man’s handcrafted ice cream as well as shakes, malts, sundaes, banana splits and ice cream sandwiches. oldtownchurn.com Old Town Churn serves as the flagship anchor for The Exchange, originally the site of a livestock exchange and now a new retail, restaurant and entertainment destination built around a community plaza. The plaza hosts a range of seasonal celebrations and family-friendly events and is available to groups. theexchangefortcollins.com

CO.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

59

REGIONAL NEWS

ACTIVITIES»

Get Creative Juices Flowing with Art Workshops Teri Adams-Fjellman and her daughter, Kaurie, provide groups and attendees with a fun and creative alternative to playing in the Colorado outdoors. For more than 17 years, blessings! Art Workshops has been serving the hospitality industry at luxury resorts across the United States, including The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. No experience is needed and all materials and instruction are provided to create western-themed jewelry, silk scarves and ties, journals, T-shirts, tote bags and more. Workshops can be customized to fit a group’s specific needs, interests and budget. blessingsfromteri.com

Bites & Bottles

VENUES»

The Greater Denver Venue Network (GDVN) was founded in 2009 to support and foster a professional event referral network for venue members located in the greater Denver area and to serve as a resource community for venue professionals. GDVN has grown from a small group of approximately nine venue leaders who met quarterly for lunch to 85 venues and organizations spanning from Larkspur to Loveland and 110 members who gather 12 times a year.

A new website, venuhub.com, now offers a simplified venue search with inquiries going to members. The website is owned and operated by Dawn Williams, who had already been sending leads and communications to this group for nine years and decided it was time to transition to a software platform. The first phase launched in January and serves as a one-stop shop for meeting and event planners and the general public to search for venues by date and guest count.

Meeting Space at mindSpark Learning Located in Lakewood, mindSpark Learning not only reaches educators on a national scale, the company rents its 11,000 square feet of meeting space to encourage creativity, col-

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Liz Ratliff and Lauren Lacy (both in the middle) accept Hotel Talisa, Vail’s Company of the Year award from Bob Haddad, Colorado Meetings + Events, and Sharon Freeark, Successful Meetings.

laboration and innovation. The East Room holds groups of up to 40 while the West Room hosts 80 to 100. Reduced rates are available to schools and nonprofits. The ultimate goal is connecting industry and business to education. mymindsparklearning.org ASSOCIATIONS»

Destination Colorado Recognizes Peak Performers Members of Destination Colorado gathered at The Infinite Monkey Theorem in Stanley Marketplace on Dec. 5 for an annual meeting, prior to the organization’s 22nd annual Front Range Trade Show. Peak Performer awards

were presented, including Company of the Year to Hotel Talisa, Vail; Individual of the Year to Meg Palumbo, The Steamboat Grand; and Chairman’s Award to Stacy Daeffler, who until recently served as manager of Destination Colorado. Congratulations!

NACE Bites & Bottles The Greater Denver Chapter of the National Association of Catering & Events (NACE) held its annual Bites and Bottles complete with amazing food, drink and philanthropy.

Held at The Vehicle Vault in Parker on Oct. 9, the event raised money for Shining Stars and the NACE Foundation. Food was prepared by various Denver area caterers and beverages crafted by local breweries and wineries.

P H O T O S : PA U L B R A D N E R P H O T O G R A P H Y ; J O S H G O L D P H O T O G R A P H Y

New Denver Area Venue Website Launches

Photos

P H O T O S : PA U L B R A D N E R P H O T O G R A P H Y ; J O S H G O L D P H O T O G R A P H Y

This dynamic conference offers a two-day educational package, speakers showcase and trade show... and is THE signature event for meeting and event professionals in the Rocky Mountain Region and the West.

Sponsored and Produced by the 13 member organizations of MIC

www.mic-colorado.org

#micCO2019 @MICColorado

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER

The Meetings Industry Council (MIC) of Colorado would like to thank our sponsors of the 19th Annual MIC of Colorado Educational Conference and Trade Show! Without your support this conference would not be possible.

2019 diamond SponSorS

2019 platinum SponSorS

2019 Gold SponSorS

2019 Silver SponSorS Ameristar Casino Resort Spa

History Colorado Center

Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI)

San Francisco Travel

Cayman Islands Department of Tourism

Visit Dallas

Christie’s Photographic Solutions

Visit Seattle

Hermes Worldwide, Inc.

All sponsors listed are as of 2.7.19

2019 Bronze SponSorS Experience Columbus

Little Eden Plantscaping

The Brown Palace

GES

Renaissance Hotels

Two Roads Hospitality

Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center

Splash Promotion

Visit Greeley

Infiniti Wireless Solutions

The Broadmoor Hotel

Visit Houston

Photos courtesy of All Digital Photo & Video

REGIONAL NEWS

DESTINATION»

Snowmass Base Village

CONFERENCES»

2018 Colorado Governor’s Tourism Conference Hotel Talisa, Vail hosted the 2018 Colorado Governor’s Tourism Conference held Oct. 29-31 and attended by 549 participants. The Colorado Tourism Office worked with Walking Mountains Science Center and Hotel Talisa to structure the event as the first zero-waste state tourism conference in the nation. The partnership also resulted in pre-conference opportunities to work on local trails and clean up around waterways. Five award recipients were recognized.

Outstanding Community Tourism Initiative Award - VISIT DENVER for its

statewide partnership in serving as host city for the U.S. Travel Association’s annual IPW trade show in May 2018 Governor’s Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution to Colorado Tourism - Gary Schluter, founder of

Rocky Mountain Holiday Tours, and Allison Scott, the now retired director of communications for The Broadmoor Chairman’s Award - Ian Steyn, former vice chair and member of the Colorado Tourism Board of Directors Governor’s Award for Outstanding Marketing Program - Visit Loveland for its

“Sharing the Love of Valentine Season” Jack Snow Volunteer Award - Cy Michaels, owner of La Quinta in Trinidad

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and chair of the Trinidad Tourism Board coloradotourismconference.com ATTRACTIONS»

Snowmass Launches New Base Village Features Colorado’s most significant ski resort project for the 2018/2019 ski season is the new $600 million development at Snowmass.

The latest addition to Snowmass Base Village, a partnership of Colorado-based East West Partners, Aspen Skiing Company and KSL Capital Partners, LLC officially debuted with a community grand opening celebration on Dec. 15. The focus was on the new Limelight Hotel Snowmass and a public plaza featuring an ice rink surrounded by fire pits, a five-story climbing wall and luxury residences. The Collective also is new, along with restaurants including The Limelight Lounge, The Crepe Shack

by Mawa’s Kitchen, and CODough Bar by Sweet Coloradough.

A slopeside Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert headlined by Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe kicked off the celebration followed by a grand opening ceremony that featured local luminaries, a professional climb-off on the climbing wall, performances by Olympic ice skater Paul Wylie and local skate clubs, local DJ Naka G, food samples and fireworks. gosnowmass.com; limelighthotels.com; ewpartners.com

Telluride welcomed the 2018/2019 winter season with new dining and drinking options, hotel upgrades, wellness services and more. visittelluride.com Lumière, a luxury boutique hotel, has renovated each residence and the property’s common space.

Design elements pay homage to the town’s rich history. The property also debuted a new restaurant, Scratch Kitchen & Cocktails.

Pure Beauty & Wellness Spa has expanded its facilities with a Himalayan Pink Salt Cave, a new reception area and five more treatment rooms. Himalayan salt promotes anxiety relief, immune system support, detoxification and skin purification.

Fuel Elevated has opened at The Madeline Hotel, serving as the Mountain Village outpost of Telluride Fuel Gym. Fuel Elevated is managing all fitness spaces at The Madeline, conducting group fitness classes and offering personal training.

Wood Ear Whiskey Lounge & Noodle Bar is now cooking up nontraditional “Texas-style” ramen, boiling 200 pounds of bones per day to create the signature broth for its ramen dishes.

Last Dollar Saloon has reopened after undergoing a six-month renovation that includes a rooftop with views of town and the surrounding San Juan Mountains.

The Tunnel is Telluride’s very first speakeasy-inspired restaurant and requires a password to enter.

P H O T O S : J E R E M Y S WA N S O N ; P U R E B E A U T Y & W E L L N E S S S PA

NEW & UPGRADED OPTIONS IN TELLURIDE

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THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS Presenting Sponsor

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REGIONAL NEWS

HOTELS & RESORTS»

Aspen’s Hotel Jerome Showcases Improvements Rowland+Broughton has wrapped up a twopart project at the Hotel Jerome in Aspen, Aspen Times Building next door and the courtyard in between. The courtyard area previously turned its back on the Aspen Times Building and now offers a 360-degree experience with seating and landscaping and improved connectivity to Main Street.

Designed as an extension of the courtyard, the new three-story Suites building features cedar siding stained to complement the red brick siding of the hotel. An informal hardwood screen on the façade functions as a vertical garden trellis meant to encourage the courtyard to “grow” up the building. The interior palette, millwork, finishes and furnishings take their cue from the historic property.

The Aspen Times Building underwent exterior and interior improvements and now features a speakeasy and entertainment venue Bad Harriet. A sliding barn door system was added to the original garden-facing wall to create a link to the outdoors. aubergeresorts.com/hoteljerome

Distinct Team-Building & Activities at Beaver Creek Hotel Some of The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch’s most popular year-round group activities are the property’s Art in Nature classes that combine getting creative, going outside and enjoying a beverage.

Colors & Cocktails » Enjoy soothing

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sounds and a cocktail while decorating a colorful mandala to take home.

Painting & Pinot » Sip wine and paint a rendition of the gorgeous alpine scenery.

Whiskey & Woodburning » Using a woodburning tool, etch a personalized design into a wood cutting board or coaster set while enjoying a custom whiskey cocktail.

Lager & Leatherworking » Learn to stamp leather using a variety of lettering fonts and designs while savoring a flight of Colorado microbrews.

Gin & Jewelry » Design a bracelet, necklace or keychain while tickling your taste buds with a signature cocktail.

For a culinary angle, the Ultimate S’mores Showdown involves teams racing against the clock to create s’mores using only the ingredients in their baskets. Another option is a pizza-making class where groups hand toss dough, make tomato sauce and enjoy the finished product with the hotel’s signature beer, Buck, Buck, Moose. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ colorado/bachelor-gulch

Two Hotels Celebrate Holidays with Gingerbread Displays

Armstrong Hotel undergoing Upgrade

Entertainment & Venue Growth at The Stanley

The historic Armstrong Hotel in Old Town Fort Collins closed for an extensive renovation on Jan. 1 and is expected to reopen by early spring 2019. The 1923 landmark will soon feature nine new guest rooms, an expanded lobby space, and a complete interior refresh that showcases a rich and bold design. The hotel’s Ace Gillett’s Lounge also is undergoing upgrades. thearmstronghotel.com

In tandem with AEG Presents Rocky Mountains, The Stanley Hotel’s entertainment lineup is expanding to an anticipated 60 nights a year. Over the past three years, the iconic Estes Park property began promoting its own lineup of concerts and events, attracting national touring acts. The Stanley also launched a four-day horror film festival, TED Talk-style speaker series and high-profile comedy events.

The Broadmoor wrapped up its centennial year with a large gingerbread display in the form of a 13.5-foot-tall replica of the original 1918 resort. A holiday tradition since 1964, the 2018 masterpiece was spearheaded by executive pastry chef Adam Thomas and required four months of planning and more than 10 master pastry chefs and two carpenters devoting 220-plus hours. The actual 1918 building took 13 months and 600 Italian artisans to complete. broadmoor.com The impressive, 15-foot-high gingerbread display of Santa’s workshop at Sheraton Denver Downtown was the result of a partnership with Johnson & Wales University Denver Campus and Craine Architecture. It’s the third consecutive year that the hotel’s culinary team, led by executive chef Scott Skomal, has held the Gingerbread Village Challenge. Seven teams of two culinary students participated to help create features for the life-size gingerbread house. Cash prizes were awarded. marriott.com

P H O T O : S H AW N O ’ C O N N O R ; VA I L M A R R I O T T M O U N TA I N R E S O R T

Hotel Jerome

P H O T O : S H AW N O ’ C O N N O R ; VA I L M A R R I O T T M O U N TA I N R E S O R T

EVENT DESIGN & CUSTOM FABRICATION

Vail Marriott Mountain Resort

The Stanley also is moving forward with construction of the 40,000-square-foot Stanley Film Center, which received an $11.6 million award from the state of Colorado under the Regional Tourism Act. Once complete, the film center will have an auditorium that holds 1,200, features exhibits and hosts film screenings, educational programs, concerts and events. stanleyhotel.com; aegpresents.com

DECOR | LIGHTING | FURNITURE | CUSTOM GRAPHICS & FABRICATION 303-731-4050 | PINKMONKEYSOLUTIONS.COM | DENVER & MOUNTAINS

Expanded Activities & Upgraded Spaces at Vail Marriott When checking into the newly renovated Vail Marriott Mountain Resort, groups can enjoy the results of a $25 million makeover of the guest rooms and meeting and event spaces and the new outdoor veranda featuring a bar, fire features and private settees for après everything. Small groups also can schedule some R&R on the rooftop deck of the three-bedroom penthouse suite, complete with a putting tee, indoor/outdoor hot tub and grilling space.

In addition, the resort also is collaborating with Colorado-based Icelantic so groups can try select all-mountain and backcountry touring skis and enjoy overnight accommodations in one of the Icelantic-themed junior Timberline suites.

For an elevated wellness experience, unwind with Vail Marriott’s weekly 50-minute Om Boocha restorative yoga class and cheers with kombucha crafted in-house. Groups also can try out Curling & Cocktails on the patio and head out on a stargazing journey via snowcat, observe the constellations with an expert host and warm up with hot chocolate.

info@maxandlivie.com 720.536.8100 www.maxandlivie.com

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REGIONAL NEWS

Unplug to Reconnect

AWARDS

Connect your attendees to more than just Wifi.

Enjoy record-breaking attendance with remarkable venues & activities surrounded by natural wonders.

They’ll talk about this event for years to come.

VisitCOS.com/meet Stonebridge Receives Partnership Circle Award Denver-based Stonebridge Companies, a privately held hotel owner, operator and developer was one of three Marriott North American franchise partners presented with Marriott International’s 2018 Partnership Circle Award. As the highest honor that Marriott grants to its franchise partners for hospitality excellence, the recognition also inducts Stonebridge Companies into the award program’s Hall of Fame.

Stonebridge Companies’ current hotel portfolio features 28 Marriott locations nationwide and recently expanded with the Courtyard by Marriott Loveland/Fort Collins that opened in February 2019. sbcos.com

Hotel Boulderado Renovation Lands Kudos The International Interior Design Association Rocky Mountain Chapter presented Aspenbased Rowland+Broughton Architecture/ Urban Design/Interior Design with a BEST award for the renovation of Hotel Boulderado in downtown Boulder. The renovation of the 1909 structure preserves its historic legacy while adding qualities that modern guests expect in a boutique hotel. The new experience begins with a custom awning and freshly painted trim outside. Stepping into the lobby, function was improved by relocat-

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PLANNERS»

TWO DMCS JOIN FORCES Denver-based Imprint Group has welcomed Alpine Access, a destination management company serving Colorado mountain resorts, to the fold as a new division called Imprint Events Colorado Resorts.

With additional offices in Orlando and Las Vegas, Imprint Group has provided destination management, entertainment and production services to clients in Colorado for nearly 50 years, and the merger now provides full-time presence in the mountain region. Dawn Harker, a 15-year industry veteran who has served the Vail Valley since 1996, established Alpine Access six years ago. Harker is leading sales and marketing efforts for Imprint Events Colorado Resorts. imprintgroup.com

ing the front desk to better accommodate large living room seating for food and beverage service. The historic mosaic tile floor and fireplace were resurrected and restored. rowlandbroughton.com; boulderado.com

Colorado Hotel & Lodging Association Lands ISHA Nod The International Society of Hotel Associations (ISHA) presented its 2018 Awards of Excellence to member state hotel and lodging associations at the annual ISHA Winter Summit, held at downtown Denver’s Le Méridien hotel in December. The Colorado Hotel & Lodging Association brought home the Government Affairs Award of Excellence. isha.biz

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REGIONAL NEWS

PEOPLE NEWS»

GMs Daniel Abrashoff has joined

Alexi Mandolini has been

Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa as general manager, overseeing all departments and operations at the 6,000acre ranch as well as two Winter Park-based sister properties, Vasquez Creek Inn and Trailhead Inn. Most recently, he was the GM and director of business development at The Lodge at Glendorn in Pennsylvania.

Abrashoff also rebranded and launched Lake Kora, a historic Adirondack Great Camp located in New York, and Annandale, a restored New Zealand sheep and cattle farm with luxury villas along the Pacific Ocean.

promoted to chef of creative development by Denver-based Catering by Design, where she has held the position of sous chef since January 2018. She started her career working on the line and landed the executive chef position at Amazing Edibles, a full-service catering company where she worked for seven years. Prior to relocating to Colorado, she worked with Boka Catering Group and gained experience under Chicago’s Michelin-star chef Giuseppe Tentori.

Ed Blair is now the GM

or “rebel leader” of Denver’s The Curtis – a DoubleTree by Hilton managed by Denver’s Sage Hospitality. With more than 22 years of hospitality experience, Blair spent the last three years as GM at Sage’s Embassy Suites Denver Downtown where he was honored with the Sage Passion Award for 2017. He previously spent almost a decade as GM of The Oxford Hotel in Denver.

Food & Beverage

Sheamus Feeley has joined

Denver-based Punch Bowl Social as chief culinary and beverage officer. Feeley built the foundation of his career at Hillstone Restaurant Group in executive-level positions, including executive chef and vice president and working closely with the company’s CEO. He also served as the founding chef and partner of Farmstead Restaurant at Long Meadow Ranch in Napa Valley and senior vice president of culinary and kitchen innovation for BJ’s Restaurants.

Jasper Schneider is the new

executive chef of The RitzCarlton, Bachelor Gulch, bringing more than 25 years of culinary experience from New York to the Caribbean islands. Since 2013, Schneider had been overseeing culinary operations of 13 dining outlets, room service and more at CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa in Anguilla, B.W.I. Prior to Anguilla, he worked as executive chef for Hudson Hotel and corporate and executive chef for Terrance Brennan’s Picholine and Artisinal in New York City, executive chef at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, opening chef of The Palms in Turks and Caicoss.

been appointed food and beverage director and executive chef of Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs. West is responsible for the overall operations, performance and strategic direction of the property’s culinary outlets and most recently spent 12 years at The Broadmoor.

Redmond has been with Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs since the resort’s grand opening in 2016 and in his new role will build and oversee the resort’s culinary program. He previously was executive chef at Temple Israel.

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are leading Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa’s new culinary team as executive chef, pastry chef and executive director of food and beverage. A Vail Resorts chef for more than a decade, MacDonald has worked in a variety of executive chef positions, including The Village at Breckenridge and most recently Keystone Lodge. Following graduation from Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago, Houston worked her way up the pastry chef ladder in Chicago with positions at Bandera, Chicago Marriott O’Hare, Bleeding Heart Bakery and JW Marriott Chicago. Leslie brings more than 29 years of experience in management positions with high-volume corporate restaurants, luxury international hotels and resorts, and convention center properties, including 11 years with Wailea Beach Resort and Spa by Marriott in Maui, where he served as executive chef and director of food and beverage.

Jose Mejías is the new GM

Monique West and Matthew Redmond have

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Michael MacDonald, Taylor Houston and John Leslie

of Hearth & Dram, the award-winning restaurant anchoring Denver’s Union Station neighborhood since early 2017. He brings more than 14 years of restaurant management experience, most recently serving as GM of Los Chingones, part of Troy Guard’s TAG restaurant group, for four years and previously for Denver-based Armando’s Restaurante Italiano and Trappers Chop House with Leisure Hotel Resort.

OUR E-NEWSLETTER Other Jennifer LaGraff and Corrie Morley, CSEP have joined

Denver’s Four Mile Historic Park as executive director and event sales manager. LaGraff has extensive experience with nonprofit operations, development, brand strategy and event management and has served two Denver nonprofits: Denver Botanic Gardens and Denver Film Society. She is a member of the International Live Events Association Denver Chapter serving as president in 2016-2017. Morley has worked as a catering sales manager for Marriott Hotels and director of sales and events for Fun Productions and Colorado Team Building Events.

AT your FINGERTIPS. - - - CALENDAR EVENTS - - - - - LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS - - - - - PEOPLE NEWS - - - - - BI-MONTHLY UPDATES - - -

Colleen Schwake is the new

manager of Destination Colorado, a nonprofit member organization that provides resources and information for meeting and event planners. After several years as a senior broadcast negotiator with J. Walter Thompson and account manager with Blair Television, Schwake moved to Colorado and became director of business development for South Metro Denver Chamber. For the past three years, Schwake has been program director for The Admin Awards.

SUBSCRIBE for FREE at

M E E T I N G S M A G S . CO M

Doreen Young has joined

The Oxford Club, Spa & Salon at The Oxford Hotel in Denver as spa director. A trained massage therapist, Young has more than 24 years of spa industry experience, including positions at Mii Amo Spa in Sedona, Arizona and The Peaks Resort & Spa in Telluride.

CUSTOMIZED PHOTO BOOTH EXPERIENCES Photos . GIF Booths .

Social Sharing . Headshots . Custom Backdrops

www.lightboothphoto.com

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SNAPSHOTS SERVING UP HOPE LUNCHEON & FRONT RANGE TRADE SHOW

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25th Annual Serving Up Hope

The Serving Up Hope Luncheon, hosted by the Meetings Industry Council of Colorado on Nov. 6 at Denver Mart and attended by approximately 700 industry professionals, raised more than $24,000 for the Food Bank of the Rockies Denver’s Table. In addition, approximately 14,700 meals were donated day-of by attendees, resulting in an overall total of 114,210 meals. Awards for the most food donated per member were given to the Christian Meetings & Conventions Association and Colorado Society of Association Executives.

1. Co-chairs Aimee Palifroni and Carol Lathrop. 2. Host and emcee David Bondarchuck. 3. Punch Bowl Social accepting the Best Appetizer award. 4. Old Major.

5. Ellen Collins and Deseri Martinez. 6. Cody Galloway and Andrea Farney. 7. Dessert by Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. 8. Allison and Steve Kinsley. 9. Chandra Brager, Kristin Grunewald and Melanie Donahue.

10. Renaissance Denver Stapleton Hotel (Fifty 300 Restaurant), winner of the Best Entrée and People’s Choice awards.

11. Jeremy Wilson and Aaron Fisch. 12. John Walters sampling the fare. 13. Chef Paul Fischer, Food Bank of the Rockies; MIC Chair Todd Seymour; and Chef David L. Beckwith, Metropolitan State University of Denver.

Destination Colorado Annual Meeting & Front Range Trade Show

Suppliers and meeting and event planners from around Colorado gathered at the Front Range Trade Show to network and book business. Destination Colorado’s 22nd annual event happened on Dec. 5 at The Hangar at Stanley, located in Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace. The association’s annual meeting was immediately before the trade show, upstairs at The Infinite Monkey Theorem.

14. Darby Kurtz and Maria Garces.

15. Destination Colorado President Kathy Reak. 16. Greg Staley and Jodi Church. 17. Tim Litherland and Brady Johnson. 18. Abby Nurre, Candace Duran and Ben Powers. 19. Team Beaver Creek. 20. Grinch and Elf. 21. Bruce Dalton, Alex Merrick and Justin Clark.

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SUBMIT YOUR EVENT PHOTOS To have your meeting or event photos featured here, contact the editor at beth.buehler@tigeroak.com.

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FROM D.C. TO DENVER

Franny Starkey reflects on her transition from the White House to Imprint Group COO.

BY JENNA BARBARI

F

ranny Starkey believes there are no boring places, only boring people.

“There are always exciting things to do, you just have to go out and find them.” It’s clear that she takes the saying

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to heart as her career journey has been anything but boring.

Starkey discovered her passion for politics during her time at Drake University in Iowa, where she studied

journalism and became involved with the Iowa Caucus. After working on a few political campaigns and serving as deputy director of communications for Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack, she became acquainted with Senator Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle.

Upon developing a “great rapport” with the Obamas, Starkey was the fifth hire in Iowa for Barack’s announcement tour. When he was elected president of the United States in 2008, Michelle reached out to Starkey and offered her the position of senior advisor and director of scheduling and advance for the first lady.

In this role, she planned and managed the first lady’s press tours and accompanied her to countries around the world, ensuring safe travels and expertly organized events.

As the Obamas approached the end of their first term in the White House, Starkey found out she was pregnant. She had been giving the first lady 110 percent and knew her priorities were about to change, prompting a move home to Denver in 2011 to join her brother, Chris, and their parents.

Now mom to daughters Willa, 7, and Jaydee, 5, Starkey is thrilled to be working as the COO of Imprint Group in Denver, an event management group that her brother co-owns with Nicole Marsh. Prior to that, she was director of special events and protocol for University of Denver.

Despite her incredible time in Washington, D.C., Starkey says with confidence that “my children are the best things I have done” and she loves her family-focused life in Colorado.

Get Connected IMPRINT GROUP imprintgroup.com | 303.623.1492

I L L U S T R AT I O N : T R A C I Z E L L M A N N

PEOPLE PROFILE FRANNY STARKEY

I L L U S T R AT I O N : T R A C I Z E L L M A N N

COLORADO A G reat St a t e f o r Me e t i n g s . . . N a t u r a l l y

destinationcolorado.com

EVENT SPACE for all

SHAPES AND SIZES

6 Exhibit Halls with 584,000 sq.ft. of space on one level 63 meeting rooms with 100,000 sq.ft. of meeting space on one level

2 ballrooms and 85,000 sq.ft. of space on one level 5,000 Bellco Theatre with cut down capability Free Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

To inquire or book, call or email Rich Carollo at 3o3.228.8022 or rcarollo@denverconvention.com