Michigan Meetings + Events Spring 2020

M E E T I N G S M A G S . C O M // S P R I N G 2 0 2 0

Work +Play

ALL THAT ANN ARBOR HAS TO OFFER

PLUS:

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE GATHER AT MICHIGAN’S ZOOS, AQUARIUMS AND GARDENS

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CHECK IN

AMWAY GRAND PLAZA, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON

CHECK OUT

RESERVE WINE AND FOOD

MEETING DESTINATION — CHECK. Check in to one of our uniquely spirited hotels — with each one offering a different vibe, style, flavor, focus, and capability to fit your meeting needs, wants, and gotta-have-its. Check out the surrounding area and you’ll be amazed by the sheer number of opportunities to get your groove on, whatever it is; museums, music, art, theater, the symphony, a proper cocktail, fine-dining, or fun dining. Your meeting destination mystery, solved. Call us, let’s plan. hoteldistrictgr.com | @hoteldistrictgr | 616.776.6400

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MEET LIKE A LOCAL

Michigan’s Capital City offers unique event space, premium lodging and one-of-a-kind dining and entertainment options all served up in an environment that somehow feels just like home. It’s time to take another look at Greater Lansing, Michigan.

When you do, we promise, you’re going to love it like a local.

LANSING.org

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#LOVELANSING

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Spring 2020 MICHIGAN MEETINGS + EVENTS MAGAZINE: IN THIS ISSUE

22

FEATURE

32

Go Wild Michigan has a bounty of zoos, aquariums and gardens. By Chris Williams

DEPARTMENTS 22 DESTINATION Explore Ann Arbor.

By Kelly Skarritt-Williams

By Kelly Skarritt-Williams

P H O T O S : S A M A N T H A PAV L O V S K I ; S E A N C A R T E R ; J O H N B A L L Z O O

56 PROFILE Get to know Ken Hayward of the Grand Hotel.

I w y

T

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P H O T O S : S A M A N T H A PAV L O V S K I ; S E A N C A R T E R ; J O H N B A L L Z O O

pleasure doing business It’s where everything comes together. Where meetings are conducted with rhythm and grace. Where even before you meet and shake hands, you all begin to realize that you’re in a pre y great place.

TraverseCity.com

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Spring

2020 44

16

MEETING NOTES

INDUSTRY UPDATE

11 ON-THE-SPOT SWAG

40 INFOGRAPHIC

Glowforge creates meaningful moments at events with 3D laser printers.

By Kassidy Tarala

Kimpton’s 2020 Culinary & Cocktails Trend Forecast identifies the F&B trends to watch this year. Research courtesy of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

12 HOTEL SPOTLIGHT The Hotel Saint Regis Detroit is reimagined with a full renovation. By Megan Gosch

44

42 REGIONAL NEWS What’s happening in the local industry.

Compiled by Morgan Halaska

14 F&B

The Kitchen by Entourage Events Group travels to you. By Hannah Cullen 16 BEYOND THE BORDERS

Discover The Palm Beaches.

By Morgan Halaska

54 SNAPSHOTS Photos from the 2020 Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

ON THE COVER

Cornman Farms in Ann Arbor. Photo by Emily Berger

P H OTO S : H OT E L S A I N T R E G I S ; W I L L I A M J . H E B E R T; MORIS MORENO

12

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P H OTO S : H OT E L S A I N T R E G I S ; W I L L I A M J . H E B E R T; MORIS MORENO

DISCOVER

HOLLAND

Let us help you plan your next meeting!

Great Gathering Places Historic Downtown Unique Dutch Attractions Award-Winning Community 2000 Hotel Rooms

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800.506.1299 • holland.org • wendy@holland.org

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SPRING 2020

mi.meetingsmags.com

MANAGING EDITOR SENIOR EDITOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mike Munzenrider Megan Gosch Lauren Pahmeier Morgan Halaska, Kelly Skarritt-Williams, Chris Williams, Kassidy Tarala EDITORIAL INTERNS ​Hannah Cullen EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Traci Bahlman, Holiday Market Catering • Greg DeSandy, TCF Center Larisa Draves, Draves & Associates • Carol Galle, CMP, Special D Events Lyn Gleasure, Bedrock Detroit • Janet Korn, Experience Grand Rapids John Kuithe, Hospitality Specialists • David C. McKnight, Emerald City Designs Kat Paye, National Cherry Festival • Kelly Woo, Special D Events DESIGN DIRECTOR ART DIRECTORS

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR PROJECT COORDINATORS

Courtney Nielsen Traci Zellmann Taylor Kilgore Olivia Curti

Dare to be Different!

3 Keys for GoalSetting Success

with speaker Jan Spence

Dianne Talmage Brittni Dye, Kristina Vis

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR SUBSCRIPTION MARKETING SPECIALIST

Jeremy Wieland Josh Jaskulka

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE CREDIT MANAGER ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SPECIALIST

Chris Adamietz April McCauley Jared Lawson

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER WEB ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Tuesday, April 14, 2020 UrbanBeat Event Center, Lansing

For more information visit:

MPIweb.org/Michigan

Kristin Mastantuono Angela Beissel

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER– NATIONAL SALES Laurie Burger 586.416.4195 laurieburger@comcast.net

California Meetings + Events • 303.617.0548 Colorado Meetings + Events • 303.617.0548 Illinois Meetings + Events • 312.755.1133 Minnesota Meetings + Events • 612.548.3148 Mountain Meetings • 303.617.0548 Northeast Meetings + Events • 586.416.4195 Northwest Meetings + Events • 253.732.7133 Texas Meetings + Events • 469.264.7657 Reprints: For high-quality reprints of 500 or more, call 800.637.0334 or email reprints@tigeroak.com.

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MICHIGAN MEETINGS + EVENTS HAS

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Michigan Meetings + Events accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork; they will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

T IGE R OA K M E D I A

FOUNDER & CEO CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

R. Craig Bednar Susan Isay Jim Younger

900 South Third St., Minneapolis, MN 55415 Phone: 612.548.3180 Fax: 612.548.3181 Published quarterly Michigan Meetings + Events, Spring 2020 © 2020 Tiger Oak Media. All rights reserved.

Printed in the U.S.A.

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The Inn at Harbor Shores

Southwest Michigan's Premier Resort

Your event, perfectly tailored...

Harborview Ballroom | over 4,000 sq. ft.

Waterside Room| over 1,000 sq. ft. of flexible space Marina View Boardroom | 600 sq. ft Outdoor patio perfect for welcome receptions Amazing views from all banquet rooms of the St. Joseph River Coffee shop & full-service spa Luxurious resort-style lodging rooms Advanced audio visual capabilities ST. JOSEPH, MI | 269.983.1111 | INNATHARBORSHORES.COM

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

Meeting Notes HOTEL SPOTLIGHT 12

F & B 14

BEYOND THE BORDERS 16

BOOK RECOMMENDATION 20

MEETING MAGIC

Glowforge creates meaningful moments with 3D laser printers.

LIKE MAGIC, Glowforge can bring your attendees’ digital design dreams to life with its 3D laser printers.

From phone stands and luggage tags to key chains and coffee sleeves, Glowforge can print customized souvenirs for each of your attendees to take home after what will be one of the most memorable events they’ve ever experienced.

“There are a ton of ways meetings planners can use Glowforge printers at meetings and events,” says Dan Shapiro, CEO and founder. “Glowforge printers on an expo floor are sure to wow attendees and get them engaged at any event. We’ve seen Glowforge printers drive booth traffic, drawing constant streams of people coming to a booth to watch.”

Attendees can create their own designs by doodling with a pen, and Glowforge can then engrave their designs on anything from a notebook to a luggage tag.

With materials costing about 25 cents per person, Glowforge uses leather, wood, acrylic and even chocolate to create customized souvenirs in less than five minutes.

“Glowforge can print any souvenir you can think up within minutes. This means you can print trophies for the team members who drove the most leads right in front of them. Or you can challenge the team to a team-building activity to see who can come up with the most creative design to print on a Glowforge,” Shapiro says. “You can also quickly commemorate the event on the spot by adding the date and a theme of the meeting onto a keepsake for folks to take home.

The possibilities are truly endless.”

—Kassidy Tarala

P H OTO : G LOW F O R G E

“Meeting planners can also leverage Glowforge to make a ton of swag, corporate

giveaways and event marketing items right from the office or home ahead of the conference to shave costs and time associated with outsourcing event preparation,” Shapiro adds.

MI.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

HOTEL SPOTLIGHT»

Hotel Saint Regis Detroit A FULL REFRESH BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO THIS HISTORIC NEW CENTER LANDMARK.

Locals and longtime guests of the Hotel Saint Regis Detroit will discover a fresh new look at the New Center District property come fall 2020.

Originally opened in 1966, the 125-room hotel’s elegance and charm have drawn foreign dignitaries and rock stars from around the world through the years, creating a legendary Detroit landmark as it played host to renowned patrons like Martin Luther King, Jr., Aretha Franklin, Mick Jagger and countless Motown stars. Much like the city’s own rejuvenation, a full refresh of the hotel’s lobby, restaurant, guest rooms and event spaces will see a classic venue reimagined as a sophisticated, state-of-the-art facility.

“Tasteful improvements will pay homage to the hotel’s midcentury origins,” says General Manager Oz Sheikh. Original historic archways and lanterns adorn the entrance hall to the hotel’s Grand Ballroom, while sleek, modern touches will breathe new life into the cultured property. “Unique features of the renovation include a partnership with the Detroit Institute of Arts, which will showcase artwork in our main ‘living room,’ or lobby space, and the ballroom corridor.”

Located one block from Detroit’s QLine, next to Wayne State University, Henry Ford Hospital, Fisher Theatre and Cadillac Place and just minutes from major venues including Comerica Park, Little Caesars Arena and Ford Field, the hotel offers a total of 5,000 square feet of meeting space in the heart of Detroit’s hustle and bustle. The newly renovated 4,290-square-foot Grand Ballroom, which accommodates up to 400 guests theater-style, features 14-foot ceilings, high-level finishes and ample prefunction space, allowing for effortless event customization and controlled traffic flow. The hotel’s additional meeting spaces range from nearly 900 to 1,500 square feet, accommodating anywhere from 20 to 160 guests based on event design. The hotel also offers high-tech audio-visual capabilities and a wide selection of catering menu options for easy customization.

Get Connected HOTEL SAINT REGIS DETROIT hotelstregisdetroit.com 313.873.3000

P H OTO S : H OT E L S A I N T R E G I S D E T R O I T

BY MEGAN GOSCH

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GOLF SPA

P H OTO S : H OT E L S A I N T R E G I S D E T R O I T

SHOP DINE MEET

GET UP AND GO Expansive views and limitless venues. The inspiration of a Northern Michigan meeting is more than a vineyard board room, private beach reception, or group sail at sunset. More than renowned service or distinct personalization. It’s having all of those things at your fingertips. You won’t believe it if you haven’t seen it.

Get up and go at grandtraverseresort.com/meetings.

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

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

F&B»

THE KITCHEN THAT COMES TO YOU Celebrate anywhere with a mobile culinary facility on wheels.

E

ntourage Events Group is determined to produce events that elevate brands, cultivate community and leave lasting impressions through the creation of unique and memorable event experiences. With a corporate office located in Minneapolis, Entourage Events Group can host regional events in unique and historic venues.

Entourage has found a way to add even more flair to events with the debut of The Kitchen this past fall. “The Kitchen is a larger-than-life, 53-foot mobile culinary concept that has capabilities unlike anything the event world has seen before,” says Nancy Jacobs, national sales and marketing director at the events group. “Available for private events, this new design by Entourage Events Group brings a full-scale catering kitchen directly to the location of your choice.”

With 5,300 square feet of space, The

Kitchen is well equipped with features and amenities similar to a full-scale catering kitchen, including a walk-in freezer, refrigerator and large pop-open doors that connect guests and the chefs at work.

“Customized with state-of-the-art equipment and a professional team of chefs, The Kitchen offers a truly interactive experience, showcasing the same beautiful, chefinspired cuisine and high-level service you would experience at a venue,” says Jacobs.

The Kitchen is not bound to Minnesota.

Being a mobile culinary facility gives it the ability to travel across the country and create a pop-up venue just about anywhere.

It can accommodate events small and large, but is most ideal for guests ranging between 300 and 3,000.

Available to those guests is a full culinary menu that embraces farm-to-table freshness and seasonal menu rotations, with

the ability for large-scale production and flexibility to support lifestyle, dietary and allergen requests.

There is no set rate to rent The Kitchen.

Instead, pricing is customized based on event style and location. Acknowledging that all events vary, Entourage Events Group will quote a rental fee and create a menu and design to fit each clients’ vision.

“We are driven by our relentless passion for innovation and dedication to personal care and professional service. Your priority becomes our priority—no matter what the event, our goal is to make your experience with us an unforgettable one,” says Jacobs.

Get Connected ENTOURAGE EVENTS GROUP entourageeventsgroup.com/thekitchen info@entourageeventsgroup.com

P H OTO S : E N TO U R AG E E V E N T S G R O U P

BY HANNAH CULLEN

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P H OTO S : E N TO U R AG E E V E N T S G R O U P

PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

BEYOND THE BORDERS»

FANCY & FRUITFUL

THE PALM BEACHES OFFER AN ABUNDANCE OF SUNSHINE, SAND AND MEETING SPACES IN SOUTHEAST FLORIDA.

By Morgan Halaska

The reputation of “America’s First Resort Destination” often precedes itself, with images of the wealthy vacationing in The Palm Beaches, which consists of 39 cities in southeast Florida. But dig deeper and you’ll discover humble roots. Considered the vegetable heartland of the country, agriculture is the area’s No. 1 economic driver and responsible for connecting the southeast of the state to the west.

Connectedness remains a theme in The Palm Beaches. The Brightline, a high-speed train soon to be called Virgin Trains USA, links West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and

Miami, with connections to Orlando planned for 2022. The Downtown Convention District features 1,200 guest rooms within 1.2 miles, with Palm Beach International just 3 miles away. Rosemary Square, across the street from the center, is an indoor/outdoor mixed-used space packed with local businesses and dining.

Sustainability initiatives are prevalent— solar trees from FPL SolarNow line the pathway to the Palm Beach County Convention Center, providing shade while harnessing the sun’s power and generating emissions-free energy. Groups can work environmental education into agendas, as Gumbo Limbo Nature Center protects and rehabilitates sea turtles and clothing maker 4ocean cleans the sea and coastline. Both culture and luxury are abundant here, making it a destination like no other.

On Water Waterstone Resort & Marina—the only FourDiamond boutique hotel in Boca Raton—over-

looks both the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway. Its location is reflected in its dining experiences (headed by chef Kelley Randall) and meeting spaces. The 4,650-square-foot Atlantic Ballroom features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook both bodies of water. Watersport rentals and chartered excursions are available from the marina, including Palm Breeze Charters, which picks up at the hotel and cruises the manicured Intracoastal Waterway.

Featuring the “happy chic” design of Jonathan Adler, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is a bright and luxe stay located on 7 acres of oceanfront. One of eight Forbes Five-Star resorts in Florida, guests are offered a glass of bubbly upon arrival and have access to the 42,000-square-foot Eau Spa, which is all about self-care and playful relaxation.

Opened Feb. 13, The Ben is West Palm Beach’s only waterfront hotel, overlooking Palm Harbor Marina; its rooftop ballroom is the only of its kind in the city. True of all Marriott

P H OTO S : M O R I S M O R E N O

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

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PERFECT FOR EVENTS

Plan your special celebration at Four Winds New Buffalo. Silver Creek Event Center offers over 17,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and can accommodate groups from 20 to 2,000.

Have a rockin’ good time when you host your party in Hard Rock Cafe. For a more intimate setting, you can book the Private Dining Room of The Buffet or Copper Rock Steakhouse.

With over 2,400 slots, 47 table games, 415 deluxe hotel rooms, and five delicious restaurants, Four Winds New Buffalo has everything you need to make your event a huge success.

P H OTO S : M O R I S M O R E N O

To book your event, or for more information, please call 1-866-4WINDS1 ext 5219 to speak with our knowledgeable sales team.

1.866.4WINDS1 • fourwindscasino.com

Must be 21 years of age or older. The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians invites you to play responsibly. If you think you have a gambling problem, call 1-800-522-4700. ©2020 Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians. 3141-7.01.20

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

Waterstone Resort & Marina

FOOD & DRINK There are more than 3,200 restaurants in The Palm Beaches; here’s a small but tasty sampling.

RH ROOFTOP RESTAURANT: Restoration Hardware’s four-level retail concept features a rooftop culinary experience that is as delicious as it is impeccably designed.

GRANDVIEW PUBLIC MARKET: There’s something for everyone in this 13,000-square-foot space that supports chefs, artists and entrepreneurs in their epicurean experimentation.

FARMER’S TABLE: True to its name, sustainability-focused food is served from an environmentally friendly kitchen.

LOUIE BOSSI’S: Whether it’s the Neapolitan pizza or homemade pasta, there’s no going wrong any way you order from this authentic Italian restaurant from chef Louie Bossi.

THE REGIONAL KITCHEN & PUBLIC HOUSE: Chef Lindsay Autry delights with her southern fare; don’t pass on the pimento cheese that’s prepared tableside.

Lion Country Safari

Autograph Collection hotels, the 208-room boutique pulls inspiration from the area’s history. Its namesake, the Ben Trovato Estate, got its moniker from the Italian phrase “se non è vero, è ben trovato,” which means, “even if it isn’t true, it’s a good story.” Owner, socialite and author Byrd Spillman Dewey’s knack for hospitality and storytelling permeates The Ben, making for a comfortable and inspiring stay.

On Land While the 47 miles of beach are a major draw, there are plenty of land-based activities for groups. Lion Country Safari is Palm Beach County’s largest tourist attraction. The 1,000plus animals, while controlled and monitored, roam naturally through the preserve. VIP driving tours take guests behind the scenes, allowing them to pet a rhino’s surprisingly soft

underbelly, observe chimps’ quirky behavior and more. Drive Shack is a three-level sports and social entertainment complex full of gaming and golf for social events and team-building activities in West Palm Beach. With 96 climate-controlled driving bays, a rooftop and full-service restaurant and bar, Drive Shack is a popular option that caters to groups of any size.

One of the best ways to experience Palm Beach is with the charismatic Leslie Diver, who guides driving, biking and walking Island Living Tours. Covering topics that range from architecture to the lowdown on residents both famous and infamous, Diver goes deep with facts and stories.

Get Connected DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES thepalmbeaches.com/meetings

P H O T O S : B R A N T L E Y P H O T O G R A P H Y ; L I O N C O U N T R Y S A FA R I

STEEL TIE SPIRITS: The largest craft distillery in the Southeast United States serves high-quality spirits and offers a Cocktail Academy, teaching guests when to shake and when to stir. Co-owner Ben Etheridge has built a community here through his tireless work to change the state’s distillery laws.

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Meet in Chicagoland without spending a penny on parking

P H O T O S : B R A N T L E Y P H O T O G R A P H Y ; L I O N C O U N T R Y S A FA R I

NOW THAT'S AN EDGE Amazing shopping destinations. Delicious dining experiences. Exceptional entertainment experiences. Chicago Northwest is a cosmopolitan eightcommunity region, close to O’Hare and downtown Chicago, with all of the benefits of the big city and a sophisticated vibe all its own.

Give yourself an edge at ChicagoNorthwest.com or 800-847-4849.

GIVE YOURSELF AN EDGE

100,000 Sq. Ft. Convention Center | Over 60 Hotels | 10,000 Guest Rooms

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

ON DECK»

WHAT: TwoSix Summit: Tourism's most actionable digital marketing educational conference.

WHEN: June 3-5, 2020 WHERE: Motor City Casino; Detroit, Michigan

BOOK RECOMMENDATION»

THE MINDSET OF A SHARK

Former NBA player Walter Bond becomes a business meetings superstar. B Y H A N N A H C U L L E N

Walter Bond’s latest book, “Swim! How a Shark, a Suckerfish, and a Parasite Teach You Leadership, Mentoring, and Next Level Success,” has landed itself on two top-seller lists this year. Ranking No. 15 in the month of October and No. 7 in November as one of the best business books, “Swim!” is a must-read for anyone looking to achieve greatness in the corporate world.

Following Bond’s NBA retirement, a former college coach recommended that Bond consider becoming a motivational speaker. After some time as a broadcaster for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Bond was ready to shift his career in a different direction; it was then that Walter Bond Seminars was born. Bond’s mission as a business coach is to teach the fundamentals of business, inspire leaders to become better mentors and transform people and companies.

Bond’s athletic background has equipped him with skills transferable to his current role as a global business coach and leader.

“Everything that happened in my journey in the NBA is directly related to my business journey,” says Bond. “All the years of training, set-

P H O T O S : U N S P L A S H . C O M / H E A D WAY ; B U F F I N I C O R P ( O P P O S I T E ) WA LT E R B O N D S E M I N A R S , I N C . A N D T H E B O N D G R O U P

GET CONNECTED: twosixsummit.com

20 MIM+E | SPRING 2020

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P H O T O S : U N S P L A S H . C O M / H E A D WAY ; B U F F I N I C O R P ( O P P O S I T E ) WA LT E R B O N D S E M I N A R S , I N C . A N D T H E B O N D G R O U P

backs, injuries and working on a team made for a smooth transition from sports to business.”

“Swim!” is a parable that illustrates the lessons of his successful business model, “the mindset of a shark.” Using sharks, suckerfish and parasites as metaphors relatable to business, Bond has developed six activities to help readers and clients become sharks in their industry. “Sharks are constantly moving; they only look up—never down, sharks are made of cartilage, so they’re flexible; curious and they work in tandem with suckerfish to avoid parasites,” explains Bond, who believes that to be successful and to excel in your industry that you must think similarly.

CEOs and their employees need to work in tandem and take care of each other to achieve all around excellence.

In his time as a basketball player, Bond had been cut and bounced around from team to team and never felt like he had the opportunity to excel in the NBA. Determined to excel in something, Bond became a shark in his own industry and was inducted into the Speaker Hall of Fame in 2015. For the first time in his life, Bond felt like he was being recognized as one of the best in the world. “It was a prestigious honor that I value and respect,” he says.

Understanding the culture and environment of the corporate world is like trying to understand the innerworkings of the ocean— a mystery. Bond hopes through his business coaching and the lessons in “Swim!” that he can help people in all levels of business clear up some of that mystery. “Like a shark bite, [I] want to leave my mark,” says Bond.

Get Connected

WALTER BOND SEMINARS, INC. AND THE BOND GROUP walterbond.com

MI.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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DESTINATION ANN ARBOR

Rackham Auditorium

PLANNING ON ANN ARBOR

College vibes and natural attractions combine for a hybrid meeting locale.

For nearly 200 years, Ann Arbor has offered rest and refreshment to curious and adventurebound travelers. Looking back to its founding in 1824, this verdant land offered its towering burr oaks as respite for Virginian John Allen and New Yorker Elisha Walker Rumsey, who had lofty goals of establishing flour and grist mills along the Huron River. The town was named in honor of their wives, Ann and Mary Ann, and an arbor of grapevines that the settlers built. Mary Ann’s good cooking and pleasant personality helped Ann Arbor gain renown. That reputation for warm hospitality, great food and being a natural oasis remains today, continually turning the heads of meeting and event planners across the nation.

“A great place to have a meeting is the same as a great place to go on vacation,” says Margaret Wyzlic, director of communications

and public relations for Destination Ann Arbor. “Ann Arbor is a wonderful place to visit, even if you aren’t going to a meeting.” In 2018, Washtenaw County—Ann Arbor is the county seat—welcomed 3.9 million visitors, generating $832 million in visitor spending.

“Ann Arbor is this unique hybrid of college scene, tech start-up and outdoor recreation haven,” says Wyzlic. A quintessential college town thanks to the University of Michigan’s ubiquitous presence, the atmosphere is eternally youthful and fresh, with an eager sense of wonder and curiosity. It’s as if the call of hope and promise that drew the first settlers still calls to today’s pioneers.

The University of Michigan was the first public university in the Northwest Territories.

It enrolled five students its first year, with just one residence/classroom building. Today,

it’s one of the most distinguished universities in the world, with a sprawling campus.

“There are several venues on campus available to groups,” says Nancy Harper, national sales account executive for Destination Ann Arbor. “They range from small meeting rooms for 10 people to an arena with capacity to hold 12,707.”

Some of the most popular spaces include Rackham Auditorium, Rackham Graduate School, University of Michigan Museum of Art, Hill Auditorium and the Michigan Athletics facilities. Apart from these highly regarded event spaces, the campus is also a draw for many event planners looking to infuse some fun and excitement into their meeting or conference.

“Central campus has a vibrant vibe and a life of its own, yet just a few blocks away people

P H OTO S : AU S T I N T H O M A S O N

B Y K E L L Y S K A R R I T T- W I L L I A M S

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P H OTO S : AU S T I N T H O M A S O N

Ann Arbor has always attracted big thinkers and inspired big ideas. With extraordinary meeting spaces, an exciting culinary scene, a walkable downtown and a knowledgeable staff to guide you every step of the way, Ann Arbor is an ideal destination for meetings.

Learn more at AnnArbor.org/meetings

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Weber’s Restaurant and Hotel

can walk to enjoy the essence of true Ann Arbor. There are many activities and festivals that take place on central campus. It's great for conference attendees,” says Harper.

If you need to also secure accommodations for out-of-town guests, you have some truly unique options in downtown Ann Arbor.

Graduate Ann Arbor, located right on campus at Huron and State streets, creates “a distinct sense of place for visitors and guests.”

“Graduate Ann Arbor seamlessly fuses elements inspired by the city of Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan into its design, evoking a cozy collegiate feel with nods to the history and culture of the town,” says Graduate Ann Arbor General Manager Jason Nelson.

“The motor mural behind the front desk and chalk equations on the wood columns pay homage to the evolution of the auto industry that Michigan is known for.”

Graduate Ann Arbor offers four different event spaces, accommodating anywhere from 10 to 300 people and offering an in-house award-winning catering service. Guests staying at the hotel can also enjoy a 24-hour fitness gym; Poindexter, its signature all-day café; and the Allen Rumsey Cocktail Lounge, named for Ann Arbor’s founders.

Weber’s Restaurant and Hotel offers world-class dining, four-star accommodations and spacious, luxurious spaces fitting for any event or conference. Weber’s is family-run, with the Weber family personally overseeing every aspect of the restaurant and hotel’s operations since 1937.

“We are a luxury property that’s family run,” says Michael Weber, vice president.

“We care about making sure our product is top-notch. And you have the Weber family involved, which gives you a smaller, hands-on feel to our service.” It offers 10,000-squarefeet of interior event space, which includes two ballrooms and three private banquet rooms, and soon will provide an option for a transparent dance floor to cover the pool, so planners may rent out the entire pool area for events. Also new to Weber’s Hotel are state-

P H O T O S : C H R I S T I A N H O R A N P H O T O G R A P H Y ; W E B E R ’ S R E S TA U R A N T A N D H O T E L

Graduate Ann Arbor

W Gr do Zin in bro we

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P H O T O S : C H R I S T I A N H O R A N P H O T O G R A P H Y ; W E B E R ’ S R E S TA U R A N T A N D H O T E L

Whether you are celebrating at the Greyline, our private event space in downtown Ann Arbor, or another venue, Zingerman’s Catering and Events takes pride in treating our guests like royalty. From the broad strokes to the finishing touches, we will take care of the details.

(734) 230.2300 ZINGERMANSCATERING.COM

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EVEN Hotel Ann Arbor

BY THE NUMBERS

121,890 RESIDENTS, MAKING IT THE 5 th LARGEST CITY IN MICHIGAN 107,601 SEATS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN FOOTBALL STADIUM 31,266 UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS ENROLLED AT UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-ANN ARBOR 1,318 DOWNTOWN ANN ARBOR BUSINESSES OVER 300 RESTAURANTS 163 PARKS, 58 TRAILS COVERING 466 MILES THE AVERAGE VISITOR SPENDS $152 A DAY 28.77 SQUARE MILES 25 MILES FROM METRO DETROIT AIRPORT 11 MAJOR ENTERTAINMENT VENUES

Zingerman’s Greyline

of-the-art bathrooms in each guest room, complete with floor-to-ceiling mirrors and built-in Bluetooth speakers.

If fitness is your bailiwick, a great new addition to the city’s hotel accommodations is EVEN Hotel Ann Arbor. Located next to the Kensington Hotel, it occupies the space of what was once the Holiday Inn Express. But, after a $6.5 million renovation, it’s hardly reminiscent of its previous environs. Designed with the active business professional in mind, it offers amenities you won’t find anywhere else in the city. "This is completely different from anything in Ann Arbor," says Managing Director Daniel Fine.

"There's no other place in the area that allows business travelers to maintain their active lifestyle so easily. Whatever your lifestyle, we have you covered—enjoy a great workout in our 24-hour athletic studio or a private workout using the in-room fitness equipment, and our on-site restaurant offers both healthy and indulgent choices.”

Each room has its own fitness area with a full-length mirror, exercise ball, stretch bands, exercise and yoga videos, yoga blocks and a mat. Guests even get their own water bottle to keep and the hotel will wash your exercise clothes at no additional charge. EVEN Hotel was designed around its 1,500-square-foot

gym, with all the pre- and post-workout amenities someone could need. Planners can also utilize three meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 40 people. Coming in 2020 is an outdoor patio open year-round with cushiony couches, a canopy and an outdoor fireplace, perfect for relaxing with a cocktail after a long day.

A sense of innovation and trendiness permeates Ann Arbor throughout, and at the epicenter of this is Zingerman’s.

“Zingerman’s is a culinary and food-based enterprise. It has done a great deal to shape the food culture of our entire city,” says Destination Ann Arbor’s Wyzlic. Zingerman’s has much to offer throughout Ann Arbor, but

it is most famous for Zingerman’s Deli, located in the heart of the Kerrytown district. “There are so many people who are passionate about food and come here to work at Zingerman’s” For meeting planners, Zingerman’s offers two outstanding venues that are worth exploring. Zingerman’s Greyline opened in 2016, accommodating groups of 40 to 200 in a space that’s decidedly urban in décor. “We kept the facade and ‘BUS’ sign from the historic Greyhound bus station that used to be here with an art deco design, which we carried through the space with light touches here and there,” says Terra Brock, event manager at Zingerman's Catering & Events. “It also has a custom-built bar that is definitely a beautiful

P H OTO S : E V E N H OT E L S ; Z I N G E R M A N ’ S G R E Y L I N E

6 DOWNTOWN ANN ARBOR MUSEUMS

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P H OTO S : E V E N H OT E L S ; Z I N G E R M A N ’ S G R E Y L I N E

Zingerman’s Cornman Farms

Get Connected CHELSEA COMFORT INN & VILLAGE CONFERENCE CENTER choicehotels.com 734.433.8000 EVEN HOTEL ANN ARBOR ihg.com/evenhotels 734.761.2929 GRADUATE ANN ARBOR graduatehotels.com 734.769.2200 JIFFY MIX jiffymix.com 734.475.1361 PURPLE ROSE THEATER purplerosetheatre.org 734.433.7782 UGLY DOG DISTILLERY uglydogdistillery.com 734.433.0433 UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN ATHLETIC FACILITIES facilityrentals.ath.umich.edu

Chelsea, a quaint, picturesque community that’s home to Jeff Daniels’ famous Purple Rose Theater, the historic Jiffy Mix factory, and Ugly Dog Distillery, which makes vodka from 100 percent Michigan wheat. Just off Exit 159 at M-52 is the Chelsea Comfort Inn. Adjacent to the hotel is the Village Conference Center, a multiuse venue renovated in May 2017. Its banquet team manages all the room setup, teardown, meal services, beverage service and on-site A/V for the center’s more than 4,300 square feet of event space.

“We are able to make a guest feel like they are in the comfort of their own home and make them stress-free during the time of their event,” says Nicholas Wedlick, Village Conference Center manager. “We have an onsite chef that is so intricate with his food and is able to create a guest dining experience that is uniquely our own to share.”

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN MUSEUM OF ART umma.umich.edu 734.764.4596 UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN RACKHAM AUDITORIUM smtd.umich.edu 734.647.3327 UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN RACKHAM GRADUATE SCHOOL rackham.umich.edu 734.764.8572 WEBER’S RESTAURANT AND HOTEL webersannarbor.com 734.769.3237 ZINGERMAN’S CORNMAN FARMS zingermanscornmanfarms.com 734.619.8100 ZINGERMAN’S GREYLINE zingermansgreyline.com 734.230.2300

P H OTO S : LO L A G R AC E P H OTO G R A P H Y

centerpiece in the space.” Gaze upon downtown Ann Arbor from photo-worthy 12-foottall windows in the turret. Meeting planners have access to all the necessary amenities to make their event a success, including easy access to Zingerman’s catering for a one-ofa-kind dining experience. “We’re attached to (but not affiliated with) the Marriott Residence Inn, which is very convenient for out-of-town guests,” says Brock. “And, our location is a huge draw—we’re close to everything!”

For more of a rural ambiance, Zingerman’s also rents three spaces at Cornman Farms, a working 42-acre farm in Dexter, just west of Ann Arbor, which is a supplier of Zingerman's Roadhouse restaurant. Putting the farm in “farm to table,” there is space for 15-300 people and Cornman offers a range of customizable packages for private and corporate events.

If you drive a little further west, you’ll find

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN HILL AUDITORIUM smtd.umich.edu 734.647.3327

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{ LIGHTEN UP }

P H OTO S : LO L A G R AC E P H OTO G R A P H Y

After a day of discussions or training, have fun with your group.

Visit our craft wineries, breweries and distilleries. Paddle through scenic waters. Golf beautiful courses and do so much more. For great hotel rates and fun itineraries, go to swmichigan.org/planner.

You’ll instantly lighten up your planning load.

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May 28, 2020 Best of 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards Party

R EG I ST E R N OW at mi.meetingsmags.com

The Gem Theatre, Detroit 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.

THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS RED CARPET SPONSOR

DESSERT SPONSOR

SIGNATURE DRINK SPONSOR

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THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS

1

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AN EXTRAORDINARY EVENT EXPERIENCE Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a top cultural destination in the nation—and an extraordinary place for your next event. With a 158-acre campus showcasing our incredible gardens and internationally acclaimed sculpture park, Meijer Gardens is an award-winning venue that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

We offer flexible indoor event spaces and unique outdoor spaces. Our entire facility is available for an exclusive affair, while smaller locations are perfect for an intimate dinner.

In addition to complimentary admission to open exhibitions and garden areas during your event, you’ll enjoy: • Free, convenient parking on site.

• Professional event coordinating services to guide you effortlessly through the planning process.

• State-of-the-art AV equipment and certified technician services.

• Creative in-house catering or choose from our select list of premier caterers.

• Special corporate discounts ranging from 5% to 15% off room rental charges.

LEARN MORE AT MEIJERGARDENS.ORG/HOST OR CALL 616-975-3146.

1000 East Beltline Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | MeijerGardens.org | #MeijerGardens | @MeijerGardens

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BY CHRIS WILLIAMS

Michigan is renowned for its wildlife, scenic views and array of water-loving creatures. But the state also plays host to non-native animals, plants and fish in the zoos, aquariums and gardens that can be found across the state. There’s no better way to lend an exotic vibe or to create an atmosphere of calm during your event than by hosting it at one of these venues.

The following is just a sampling of the many parks, zoos, aquariums and gardens throughout the state, and the features that can create memorable experiences for your guests.

P H O T O S : ( O P P O S I T E ) S A M A N T H A PAV L O V S K I

MEET WITH THE ANIMALS AND TAKE IN THE VIEWS AT THESE ZOO, AQUARIUM AND GARDEN VENUES.

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ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS DETROIT ZOO

P H O T O S : ( O P P O S I T E ) S A M A N T H A PAV L O V S K I

Opened in 1928, the Detroit Zoo is Michigan’s largest paid family attraction. More than 1.3 million guests visit the zoo each year to view its wide array of animals—more than 2,600 from 228 species inhabit the zoo’s 125 acres. Take a ride on the Tauber Family Railroad or go for a spin on the zoo’s historic carousel. Annual events such as Zoo Brew, Wild Beasts Wild Wine, Zoo Boo and Wild Lights draw visitors from throughout the state. It’s one of Michigan’s most beloved institutions.

Throughout the year, the Detroit Zoo hosts thousands of guests at a variety of events, including charity walks, picnics, birthday parties, weddings and corporate events. The zoo welcomes groups from 20 to several thousand, depending on the type of event, with most meeting spaces located near its beautiful and expansive animal habitats. “Not many other places offer guests the opportunity to learn about wildlife and observe lions, tigers and bears—oh my!—on a coffee break,” says Events Manager Brittany Gardners.

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JOHN BALL ZOO

Located on more than 140 acres, Grand Rapids’ John Ball Zoo offers an opportunity to see more than 2,000 animals—over 230 species—in beautifully designed habitats. From the Van Andel Living Shores Aquarium to the Idema Forest Realm Trail overlooking wolf and grizzly bear enclosures, the zoo has unique and enjoyable attractions for the entire family, and brings a sense of adventure to corporate meetings, receptions and weddings.

The zoo’s most popular event space is the Bissell Tree House, located on one of the highest points in Grand Rapids and delivering a majestic view of the downtown area. This

hillside getaway is surrounded by floor-toceiling windows and wooden beams, creating a picturesque location for numerous events.

It’s a popular space for weddings and conferences with space available for as many as 200 guests, depending on the event. The venue

offers a large ballroom overlooking downtown Grand Rapids, a catering kitchen, wraparound covered veranda and a spacious reception area.

The zoo also offers exciting private after-hours events, such as camel riding, a zip line over the zoo and a ropes course.

Travel the world without leaving Battle Creek at this 433-acre zoo. Split into two sections, Binder Park Zoo is known for its scenic beauty and beloved attractions that delight families and guests, including a vintage carousel and antique locomotive. Its animal habitats feature abundant trees and water. Its expansive Africa section puts guests in the heart of a safari, up close with cheetahs, giraffes and a 600-pound tortoise. “The whole thing is designed to be immersive,” says Leslie Walsh, Binder Park Zoo’s manager of marketing and development. “It’s our signature attraction.”

Binder Park Zoo boasts numerous amenities for event guests, including several pavilions to accommodate weddings, two on-site restaurants and a Conservation Discovery Center that features classrooms and lecture spaces; groups can also rent the historic carousel building. Its most popular event site is the Africa section’s Zamani School, where guests can enjoy a breathtaking view of the savannah. Overnight camping is also available, allowing guests to sleep under the stars near the zoo’s exotic residents. It’s a proven hit with families and with corporations looking for a unique teambuilding exercise.

P H O T O S : J O H N B A L L Z O O ; B I N D E R PA R K Z O O (OPPOSITE) JEREMY KEMP

BINDER PARK ZOO

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P H O T O S : J O H N B A L L Z O O ; B I N D E R PA R K Z O O (OPPOSITE) JEREMY KEMP

GARDENS AND MORE

BELLE ISLE AQUARIUM

Opened in August 1904, the Belle Isle Aquarium is proud to be the oldest and the longest operating single-site aquarium facility in the continental United States. Reopened to the public in 2012, the Albert Kahn-designed facility continues to delight families with its beautiful architecture and ever-growing collection of aquatic life. Detroiters and city visitors flock to this urban gem, where they marvel at the building’s design while taking in one of the largest collections of air-breathing fish in the world, with species of fish from around the globe.

Belle Isle, home to the aquarium, is one of Detroit’s most famous recreation spots, making it an ideal location for special events. It can accommodate up to 250 guests, depending on the event, and provides a unique location for memorable moments.

ANNA SCRIPPS WHITCOMB CONSERVATORY

The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory at Belle Isle is the oldest continually running conservatory in the United States, covering 13 acres that include a gorgeous fountain and calming pond. The conservatory boasts a collection of unique and exotic fauna, including tropical trees, cacti, flowers and even food-bearing plants. The peacock sundial, constructed in 1927, and the Levi Barbour Memorial Fountain, gifted to Detroit from the city of Toyota, Japan, in 1985, make wonderful spots to luxuriate and take photos. Belle Isle is a Michigan State Park, placing the conservatory just feet from gorgeous river views, parkland and walking paths.

Given its picturesque setting, the conservatory is a popular location for receptions and weddings and accommodates up to 25 people inside the facility and 150 guests outdoors (public access to the conservatory is not restricted during events).

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For 25 years, the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids has served as a testimony to a great love story, combining Frederick’s love of sculpture with his wife Lena’s passion for flowers. The park encompasses 158 acres, showcasing internationally acclaimed sculptures and themed gardens, making it an ideal location for indoor and outdoor events accomodating up to 2,200 people.

The location offers multiple event spaces, free parking and admission to garden areas during your event, along with audiovisual and technical specialists, creative catering choices and professional event coordinators. “Corporate events are our most popular, but we also have roughly 150 weddings per year, with many unique indoor and outdoor settings to offer,” says Stacie Niedzwiecki, director of hospitality.

“All rooms have beautiful views of gardens and sculptures, and guests can also enjoy the outdoor spaces during the day hours.

We are a great meeting location, with an opportunity to stretch during breaks by taking a short walk through our beautiful indoor gardens.” Centrally located in Grand Rapids, Meijer Gardens is situated near hotels and highways, and 10 minutes from Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

DOW GARDENS

Established in 1899, Dow Gardens welcomes over 300,000 guests annually. This Midland gem features a dazzling 110-acre display of annuals and perennials punctuated by distinctive bridges, an award-winning children’s garden, towering pines and delightful water features. A 1,400-foot canopy walk—the longest in the nation—allows visitors to experience nature from soaring heights. “Dow Gardens is the perfect location for your next adventure,” says Carolynn Paten, assistant director of guest relations. “Our landscape offers multiple locations for wedding ceremonies, group tours and marriage proposals. We offer both guided and unguided experiences highlighting our art, history and horticulture. There is something new every season!”

Dow Gardens’ colorful flowers, rippling water features and mature trees create the perfect backdrop for weddings and special events, including classes, performances, tournaments and more, with outdoor seating for up to 200 guests and indoor spaces available on a limited basis.

Guests can step away from the festivities to enjoy a calming walk on the grass, hold a butterfly or sample a vegetable in the children’s garden.

P H O T O S : F R E D E R I K M E I J E R G A R D E N S A N D S C U L P T U R E PA R K ; D O W G A R D E N S ( O P P O S I T E ) M I C H E L E YA N G A ; H A N N A H Z I E G E L E R

FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS AND SCULPTURE PARK

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MATTHAEI BOTANICAL GARDENS & NICHOLS ARBORETUM

P H O T O S : F R E D E R I K M E I J E R G A R D E N S A N D S C U L P T U R E PA R K ; D O W G A R D E N S ( O P P O S I T E ) M I C H E L E YA N G A ; H A N N A H Z I E G E L E R

The University of Michigan is one of the state’s most famous institutions, renowned for its sports teams and research excellence—but a love for the natural world has been a hallmark since its earliest days, as well. Its Matthaei Botanical Gardens provide a place for nature lovers to take in a unique array of plant life and enjoy peaceful surroundings. One of its most notable draws is the Nichols Arboretum Peony Garden, a century-old patch that holds the largest collection of heirloom peonies in North America. Each June, the garden bursts into bloom with up to 10,000 flowers.

The year-round conservatory, as well as its perennial, bonsai and children’s gardens, make the botanical gardens a draw for visitors from throughout the state. The peaceful surroundings also make it a popular choice for those looking for a meeting with a view, including local businesses, university departments and those seeking space for conferences, seminars and retreats. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens are also a popular location for outdoor weddings. The facilities can host up to 150 people outdoors and up to 125 in the auditorium, which provides a great view of the garden space.

WINDMILL ISLAND GARDENS

Windmill Island Gardens is a city park in Holland that’s home to the historic DeZawaan Windmill, a working Dutch windmill. The island is a romantic and scenic location, featuring a charming pavilion and an enchanting garden. The working windmill produces flour, wheat bran, grits and corn meal—all of which are available on-site.

The beautiful atmosphere makes Windmill Island Gardens a popular location for corporate events and weddings. The Celebration Pavilion, located in the middle of its gardens, can be enclosed during cooler weather and open during the summer, making it a popular wedding venue. The pavilion can accommodate up to 250 people and is a popular choice for corporate events, weddings and company picnics.

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EDSEL AND ELEANOR FORD HOUSE

Designed by famed architect Albert Kahn and constructed in 1929, the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House was intended as a place for the two to raise their family. Today, the 30,000-squarefoot, 60-room house is a popular destination for those who want a brush with Detroit history. Surrounded by a large swimming pool, meadows, a lagoon and groves of canopy trees, the home is a popular tour destination and choice for special events. “This is a huge part of American history,” says Amanda Rutland, Ford House’s visitor experience director.

“People are taken aback by the landscaping

and surprised to see that this is a true home.”

In 2020, the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House will open its new visitor center, a 40,000-square-foot facility that will expand the venue’s offerings for special events. The visitor center will feature an expanded restaurant as well as new event and conference

spaces, with catering and technical assistance available. The customizable spaces feature a walkout balcony overlooking the grounds and dining space for up to 200. The visitor center will also host special exhibits, beginning with “Driven by Design,” a celebration of automobile design.

Located in East Lansing, the MSU Horticulture Gardens are like no other campus green space. A visit quickly immerses you in a wonderland of flowers, greenery, succulents and beautifully designed spaces.

Students and staff constantly work across its seven acres, ensuring there’s always something new for visitors to see and enjoy. While the gardens were not originally intended as an event space, visitors were so taken with their beauty that they inquired about availability for weddings, seminars and meetings. “The market called, and we answered,” says Wedding and Event Coordinator Sarah Heim. “We are proud to see the gardens enjoyed by visitors, vendors, volunteers, clients and eventgoers.”

The Horticultural Gardens offer a yearround, indoor conservatory, which can seat up to 170 surrounded by trees and ferns and greeted by stars that shine through its transparent ceilings. A plaza provides a lovely location for cocktail hours and outdoor receptions. The gardens’ day-of coordinator is available to assist with equipment rentals, setup and parking. “We promise an event that will certainly ‘wow’ your guests, as we truly embrace the beauty of the outdoors— even when you are indoors,” says Heim.

P H O T O S : E D S E L A N D E L E A N O R F O R D H O U S E ; M S U H O R T I C U LT U R A L G A R D E N S ( O P P O S I T E ) K A R I D AW S O N ; M E A D O W B R O O K H A L L

MSU HORTICULTURE GARDENS

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P H O T O S : E D S E L A N D E L E A N O R F O R D H O U S E ; M S U H O R T I C U LT U R A L G A R D E N S ( O P P O S I T E ) K A R I D AW S O N ; M E A D O W B R O O K H A L L

Get Connected ANNA SCRIPPS WHITCOMB CONSERVATORY belleisleconservancy.org | 313.821.9851 BELLE ISLE AQUARIUM belleisleconservancy.org | 313.402.0466 BINDER PARK ZOO binderparkzoo.org | 269.979.1351 DETROIT ZOO detroitzoo.org | 248.336.5805 DOW GARDENS dowgardens.org | 800.362.4874

MEADOW BROOK HALL

A National Historic Landmark, Meadow Brook Hall is a house museum and cultural center featuring 110 rooms, 16 gardens and stunning Tudor-revival architecture. It features a twostory Gothic ballroom, a stately library, beautiful sun porch and grand entryway. Guests are surrounded by original paintings, sculptures, furniture, carpets, ceramics, silver, costumes, textiles and Tiffany art glass, transporting them to a bygone era of luxury while still enjoying all the modern amenities of a full-service event venue.

The hall is a popular location for many events, from corporate meetings to grand receptions and cocktail hours. It offers a variety of catering options from its top-rated resident chef.

Meadow Brook Hall can accommodate up to 300 guests for a plated meal in its Garden Tent, multiple-room dining can accommodate up to 172 and a strolling station meal can accommodate up to 275. The venue also offers a number of other rooms for smaller meetings, which can accommodate as few as 20 people. External Relations Director Shannon O’Berski promises that “no other venue will take your guests’ breath away like Meadow Brook Hall.”

EDSEL & ELEANOR FORD HOUSE fordhouse.org | 313.884.4222 FREDERICK MEIJER GARDENS AND SCULPTURE PARK meijergardens.org | 616.957.1580 JOHN BALL ZOO jbzoo.org | 616.336.4300 MATTHAEI BOTANICAL GARDENS & NICHOLS ARBORETUM mgbna.umich.edu | 734.647.7808 MEADOW BROOK HALL meadowbrookhall.org | 248.364.6200 MSU HORTICULTURAL GARDENS canr.msu.edu/hrt/our_gardens | 517.355.5191 WINDMILL ISLAND GARDENS cityofholland.com | 616.355.1300

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S’CHUG

Industry Update VENUE NEWS 44

PEOPLE NEWS 48

SNAPSHOTS 54

PEOPLE PROFILE 56

51%

predict plant-based meat alternatives will solidify their mainstream status in 2020 (no longer just a cult following) and we’ll see more plant-based takes on traditional meat dishes.

CULINARY

31%

of chefs say it’s no longer enough to have just one or two gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan and keto options on the menu.

FOODIE TIME KIMPTON’S 2020 CULINARY & COCKTAILS TREND FORECAST IDENTIFIES THE F&B TRENDS TO WATCH THIS YEAR. Research courtesy of Kimpton Ho t e l s & R e s t a u r a n t s

One-hundred-thirty chefs, sommeliers, general managers and bartenders from 75-plus Kimpton

Levantine cuisine, including Israeli, Turkish and Lebanese, is predicted as the most influential style for menus in 2020, according to nearly 40% of chefs surveyed.

S’chug, a Mediterranean hot sauce, and muhammara, a red pepper and walnut spread found in Turkish and Levantine dishes, topped the list for spreads and sauces in this year’s forecast.

Schmaltz, or rendered chicken or goose fat, will also be trending in 2020, according to a quarter of Kimpton chefs. Keep an eye out for schmaltz croutons accompanying roasted chicken dishes, and schmaltz as the new olive oil for dipping baked bread.

30%

of chefs predicted vegetable tartare will be infiltrating restaurant menus in the New Year.

TAMARIND

Ingredients with sour flavor profiles like rhubarb, tamarind and vinegar will grow in popularity, with nearly 23% of chefs selecting sour as their favorite experimental flavor. Chefs also noted that funky flavors will make their way into breakfast staples, including licorice and salty syrups and savory oatmeal made with bone broth.

dishes, flavors, ingredients and philosophies that will be explored in 2020. Below are a handful of the findings; read the full report at kimptonhotels.com/culinary-trends.

Unusual seeds like lotus, basil and water lily are predicted as one of the trendiest ingredients according to 31% of chefs surveyed.

RHUBARB

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

restaurants and bars reveal the

LOTUS SEEDS

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INFOGRAPHIC HAZY IPA

WHISKY HIGHBALL

COFFEE SPRITZ

SPICE SACHETS IN COCKTAILS

GROWN-UP SUNDAE, SAVORY DESSERT ITEMS

Liquor “Grown-up sundaes” using locally sourced, often unexpected ingredients will be one of the top dessert trends, according to 1 in 5 chefs.

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

Savory items will be featured more prominently in desserts— expect to see uniquesavory meets-sweet pairings like black pepper or sesame ice cream and truffle macarons.

Veganism will influence dessert menus as well, as 47% of respondents highlighted vegan desserts as the strongest sweet-tooth trend for 2020. Try it in lemon tarts made with cashews, coconut and lemon zest or vegan chocolate peanut butter cheesecake.

Aromatic (inedible) garnishes were cited as one of the up-and-coming trends bartenders are most excited to experiment with in 2020. Examples include spice sachets with cloves and allspice, burning sticks of wood or even absorbent, scented squares of paper clipped to glassware.

Influences from Mediterranean regions will shape bar menus according to 46% of respondents—we’ll see light, refreshing, often low-alcohol spritzes all over bar menus in 2020.

These lower sugar, crisper cocktails are the next evolution of the Spanish gin & tonic.

More than a quarter of bartenders are most excited about sour beers in the year ahead, followed by hazy or juicy IPAs and high alcohol kombuchas as a beer alternative.

Next year’s biggest wine trend will be the emergence of more natural wines, or wines farmed organically without adding or removing anything in the cellar.

Orange wines and pét-nat sparkling wines are also becoming more popular with wine aficionados.

Expect to see the rise of alternativegrain spirits like baiju, shōchū and soju, spirits that originated in China, Japan and Korea, respectively.

Whisky highballs— a trend largely driven by the popularity of lighter Japanese whiskies—are predicted to gain a cult following next year, followed closely by spiked seltzers and the return of the paloma.

Mezcal will continue to dominate in 2020, with more than a third of respondents choosing it as the predicted spirit of choice next year.

Bartenders are having fun with the smoky spirit and using it to reimagine traditional cocktails.

NONALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Many experts are predicting coffee spritzes as the hot (cold) drink of 2020. The other top coffee trends for 2020 include nitro coffee on tap, cold brew alternatives and CBD coffee.

Botanical-infused sparkling drinks are cited as the nonalcoholic trend bartenders will most likely experiment with, followed up by alcohol-free spirits and upleveled teas with exotic fruit flavors like guanabana, lulo and passion fruit.

Some 42% of bartenders surveyed are excited to embrace the noalcohol culture as part of their overall bar experience in the year ahead.

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REGIONAL NEWS

CONFERENCE NEWS» Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences Choir

Rod Alberts

Detroit CVB Annual Meeting News The Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCVB) held its Annual Partnership Meeting at TCF Center on Jan. 29. The theme was "Making the Impossible Possible" and featured Eric Larson, CEO of the Downtown Detroit Partnership, and Rod Alberts, executive director of the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, who both highlighted

projects that are transforming the landscape of Detroit, including the North American International Auto Show and its move to June.

Larry Alexander, president and CEO of the DMCVB, outlined the 2020 sales and marketing strategies of the DMCVB and announced the large conventions coming to Detroit in 2020, including FIRST Robotics World

Larry Alexander

Championship, International Convention of Alcoholics Anonymous, and Campus Party, a three-day, 24/7 technology conference taking place over the next three years. Additionally, Alexander announced that the Bureau also booked the National Guard Association of the United States for 2024 and American Bus Association for 2023.

P H OTO S : N I C K H AG E N

Eric Larson

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REGIONAL NEWS

VENUE NEWS»

25TH ANNIVERSARY AT FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park will be celebrating 25 years of being open to the public this April. Internationally acclaimed sculpture exhibitions, horticulture shows, seasonal indoor and outdoor displays, concerts and educational programming are enjoyed by 670,000 visitors annually.

The Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love expansion project continues throughout 2020, most notably with ongoing work on a new 69,000 square-foot, LEEDcertified Welcome Center, scheduled to open in early 2021.

The final phase of the parking lot expansion and redesign will complete the doubling of the number of parking spaces located within a one- to two-minute walk from the new Welcome Center entrance. The new configuration will offer additional accessible parking spaces near the entrance, increase the number of parking spaces overall and add new urban and rain gardens to control water runoff. meijergardens.org/growing

The new Arcturos Signature Dining Series at Black Star Farms has been announced for 2020. The events are a restructured and enhanced version of the popular Harvest Dinners, the long-running, elevated winepairing dining experiences at the Suttons Bay winery estate.

The Arcturos Dining Experiences will each feature a distinctly local element where guests will experience extras like musical accompaniment, a morel expert and morel hunt, or the summer event being held atop the estate vineyard.

Each event will celebrate Black Star Farm’s vineyard-to-table practices, in which grapes are grown locally, harvested and bottled all at their own two wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas. blackstarfarms.com/arcturos-dining-series THE UPCOMING DATES AND THEMES FOR 2020 ARE: May 22: Morels in May August 7: Atop the Estate Vineyard October 23: Bountiful Harvest December 31: NYE at the Inn

P H OTO S : P E T E M C DA N I E L ; LU X L I G H T P H OTO G R A P H Y

Black Star Farms Dining Series Dates Announced

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OUR E-NEWSLETTER

P H OTO S : P E T E M C DA N I E L ; LU X L I G H T P H OTO G R A P H Y

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REGIONAL NEWS

VENUE NEWS»

New Event Space from Bedrock Detroit A new Detroit event space, located in the One Campus Martius expansion, is now accepting reservations for events taking place after April 1.

The 27,529-square-foot venue includes a prefunction area, a main event space that is divisible into three separate rooms, and a wraparound outdoor terrace.

The venue is available for corporate meetings and conferences, fundraisers, weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, and other receptions. The main event space has a capacity of 499, and the entire venue can hold 999 guests. It can be arranged in theater-, classroom- or banquet-style seating or as a strolling reception. Contact the Bedrock Event Team for more information at bedrockevents@bedrockdetroit.com

The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA) Art Foundation has put out a call to artists for a large-scale, public sculpture that will be located in the center of the TCF Center’s main entrance circle drive on Washington Boulevard.

“We are excited to launch this national competition in search of a stunning and thought-provoking civic sculpture that will have a permanent home at the front entrance of our world-class TCF Center in downtown Detroit,’’ says Larry Alexander, DRCFA board chairman. “Our hope is that this piece will highlight our great city’s culture, achievements and strong spirit of innovation and

design. The sculpture will welcome Detroiters and the nearly 1.4 million people who visit TCF Center annually.”

The sculpture competition is part of a public art initiative launched by the DRCFA and

the DRCFA Art Foundation. Through Art at TCF Center, Detroit joins major convention centers throughout the country featuring public art, including cities such as Chicago, Nashville, Pittsburgh and Washington D.C.

P H OTO S : B E D R O C K D E T R O I T; TC F C E N T E R (OPPOSITE) GRAND CONNECTION

NEW ART COMING TO TCF CENTER

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P H OTO S : B E D R O C K D E T R O I T; TC F C E N T E R (OPPOSITE) GRAND CONNECTION

SUPPLIER NEWS»

TWO COMPANIES JOIN FORCES

Full-service meeting management firm Grand Connection LLC acquired Gail Andrus Travel (GAT), a group tour and event transportation company, on Nov. 30.

This acquisition will provide clients of both companies a unified meeting management, group tour and event transportation company that is unprecedented in the industry.

GAT is well known for its group transportation services, and transports thousands of people throughout Michigan and the United States each year. These transportation services go hand in hand with Grand Connection’s meeting services. This merger enables clients of both companies to gain access to a wider range of services while attending conferences, group tours and other work events.

“This merger could not have happened at a better time,” says Tracy VanderMeer, founder of Grand Connection. “We’ve recently undergone an internal restructure to better position our company for growth, and the opportunity to continue Gail Andrus Travel’s 37-year legacy was an opportunity we could not pass up!”

M AKE YOUR MEETING GR AND Located on Mackinac Island overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, Grand Hotel provides the perfect location for your next meeting,

reunion or special occasion. With historic charm, unique accommodations, activities and personal service from a dedicated convention manager,

America’s Summer Place offers an unforgettable experience for every guest.

grandhotel.com/meetings • 855-241-4519

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REGIONAL NEWS

HOTEL NEWS»

NEW HOTEL IN FLINT

A new Hilton Garden Inn is set to open in downtown Flint in 2020 in what was formerly the Genesee County Savings Bank Building.

The historic 11-story building was Flint’s second skyscraper when it opened in 1920. The current transformation of the nearly 100-year-old building will result in a 101-room Hilton Garden Inn, complete with a full-service restaurant, a meeting and banquet center and rooftop deck.

“The transformation of the historic Genesee County Savings Bank into a modern Hilton Garden Inn will symbolize to the region and beyond that the revitalization of Flint is underway” says Tim Herman, Urban Renaissance Center president. “It will provide business and leisure visitors with upscale accommodations in downtown Flint and expand the customer base for our local restaurants, arts and cultural institutions, and community events.”

The hotel will be managed by Crescent Hotels and Resorts. Flint-based firms DW Lurvey Co. and Sorenson Gross are jointly managing construction of the project.

Detroit-based Kraemer Design Group is the architect, interior designer and historic consultant.

“Crescent has numerous historic properties in our portfolio, but this property’s transformation from a 1920s bank will definitely create a unique experience for guests,” says Michael George, CEO of Crescent Hotels & Resorts. “As an award-winning Hilton manager, team Crescent and our unique approach will maximize the potential of this property.”

The grand banking hall on the ground floor will be converted into a new destination restaurant. An existing balcony overlooks the restaurant and bar and will serve as a prefunction area to the meeting rooms and banquet spaces on the second floor. Upstairs in the tower, original marble wainscoting, bases and door casings remain, and are being restored to be incorporated into the hotel’s corridor design. A new rooftop bar—with views overlooking Buckham Alley to the south and of Kettering University’s campus to the west—is planned for the top of the adjacent five-story Sherman building.

PEOPLE NEWS»

Amanda Wilkin has been appointed as president of

the Michigan Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus (MACVB). She has served in various volunteer leadership roles with MACVB and is the executive director of Visit Charlevoix. “I am excited to serve as president of MACVB,” she says. “This association represents destination marketing organizations from around the state who work with Michigan’s tourism industry. We collaborate with others in the industry including Travel Michigan and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. We also co-manage the Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism and play a strong role in advocating for Michigan’s tourism industry. I am looking forward to the year ahead.”

MACVB is comprised of 48 member convention and visitor bureaus located throughout the state of Michigan. MACVB is an organization of Convention & Visitor Bureau CEOs and staff, whose mission is to serve as the advocate for the travel industry and provide leadership to its members through education and communication.

THE NEWLY ELECTED OFFICERS ARE: President: Amanda Wilkin (Charlevoix) Vice President: Janet Korn (Grand Rapids) Secretary: Mary Robinson (Livingston County) Treasurer: Trevor Tkach (Traverse City) Members at Large: Linda Hoath (Sault Ste. Marie)

and Jack Schripsema (Lansing) Past President: Chris Rowley (Mt. Pleasant)

P H O T O : H I LT O N G A R D E N I N N

MACVB Announces 2020 Officers

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P H O T O : H I LT O N G A R D E N I N N

New PR/Media Manager at Traverse City Tourism Jillian Manning recently

joined the Traverse City Tourism team as the public relations/media manager.

Manning, a third-generation local, grew up in Traverse City and graduated from the University of Michigan before beginning a career in book publishing, which took her to Denver, Chicago and Grand Rapids. Two years ago, she returned to northern Michigan as the public relations manager for Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. “Coming home has been a dream come true,” she says. “I’ve seen Traverse City change and grow over the years, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the tourism community that welcomes visitors to our beautiful area.”

In her new role, Manning will share the story of Traverse City with travelers around the world, as well as work with media and community partners. She will also champion sustainable tourism practices and vacation experiences that enhance the culture and economy of the destination.

“Tourism is a vital part of Traverse City’s identity,” Manning says. “We live in a magical corner of the world, and we want to share that magic with others. My goal is to impart the respect and ownership locals have for Traverse City with our visitors so we can all enjoy this great place.”

“We are grateful to have someone who is committed to the area joining our team,” says Trevor Tkach, CEO/president of Traverse City Tourism. “Jillian is a polished PR professional who will represent the region well, and her passion for northern Michigan is a perfect fit for our company culture.”

MUSKEGON, MI

VISITMUSKEGON.ORG

Bernadette Benkert 231-724-1123 bernadette@visitmuskegon.org

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REGIONAL NEWS

PEOPLE NEWS»

Management Promotions at The Homestead

Special Occasions recently merged all three Michigan locations. The company will now be led by co-owners Jamie Carnes and Keri Kujala, who purchased Special Occasions East, located in Grand Blanc, Special Occasions West, located in Grand Rapids, and Special Occasions North, located in Traverse City. All three locations had previously been owned as separate entities. Carnes and Kujala will continue to operate the brand under Special Occasions. All social media platforms have been merged to Special Occasions MI. Special Occasions, founded in 2003, has provided specialty linen, chair and décor rentals for corporate, bridal and social events.

Carnes and Kujala will be expanding services offered by elevating the design aspect of the company. This will provide clients with expert design services based on their layouts, themes and budget.

There will also be an emphasis on statewide access moving in to the 2020 season. Special Occasions will travel throughout the state of Michigan to ensure product availability and installation for any event.

“We are excited to build on the foundation Special Occasions has created over the last 15 years and look forward to enhancing the services offered to each client. It is important to our whole team that each event can be fully designed to match our client’s vision,” says Carnes.

Carnes comes to Special Occasions with over 15 years of event coordination and design experience, most recently owning and managing Design Effect, which focused on corporate coordination throughout the Midwest.

Kujala begins at Special Occasions after a 14-year tenure with Mercy Health where she was the director of donor and corporate relations with a focus on overseeing fundraising and PR events for the system.

Previous owners of Special Occasions have included Lorrie Sage, Penny Waltman, Dee Mitchell and Mark Mitchell.

Detroit Metro CVB Restructures Leadership Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCVB) President & CEO Larry Alexander has announced major changes to the bureau’s leadership organizational structure.

The changes include promoting the DMCVB’s four directors to vice presidents.

“The goal of this restructuring is to create a leaner, more efficient organization that exceeds the expectations of our customers and industry partners,” says Alexander. “By perpetuating critical forward thinking we can continue to drive metro Detroit into the future as a vibrant destination and increase tourism and meetings.”

P H OTO : S P E C I A L O CC A S I O N S

New Ownership at Special Occasions

The Homestead, America’s Freshwater Resort, has announced the promotion of two key staff members to management positions.

Adriene Kokowicz has been named senior vice president and Logan Sanders has been named vice president.

Kokowicz, who has been with The Homestead since 1982, began her career in a seasonal internship position while attending Michigan State University, and has since worked in all the resort’s operating departments, with a promotion in 1999 to general manager. Most recently she held the title of vice president and general manager.

In her new position, she will continue to oversee the resort’s sales, recreation and accounting departments.

In his new role, Sanders will lead the Rooms Division, including sales. In 2017, he was named senior manager of accommodations, handling everything from housekeeping to interior maintenance to laundry and the property’s rental units. Prior to that, he served as quality control manager and reservations manager.

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P H OTO : S P E C I A L O CC A S I O N S

Harriet Carter has been pro-

moted to vice president, customer/partner services. Carter is responsible for working with DMCVB partners to develop programs and strategic initiatives that enhance convention experiences in metro Detroit. Her position is critical to maintaining and improving relationships with customers and enhancing the visibility of the DMCVB within the hospitality community.

Renee Monforton has been

promoted to vice president, marketing and communications. In her new role, Monforton is responsible for keeping the DMCVB on the leading edge of all aspects of marketing, including advertising, public relations, international marketing, social media and publishing. She also serves as the main media spokesperson for the organization.

Susan Richardson has been

promoted to vice president, group/convention sales.

Richardson’s main priority will be leading the sales team through strategic initiatives that recognize the changing needs within the market and determine the best market segment initiatives to fulfill those needs to result in the optimal business mix for the region.

Jessica Strasser has been

promoted to vice president, talent resources. Strasser is charged with ensuring DMCVB talent and technology assets and resources are strategically aligned to drive business priorities and staff are equipped with the resources, skill set and knowledge to perform. She will also work with hospitality industry partners to lead tri-county workforce development efforts to benefit the metropolitan Detroit region.

June 3, 2020 | MotorCity Casino Hotel, Detroit

Michigan Meetings Expo • Come see hotels, resorts and unique venues from throughout the state • Education, idea sharing and networking • Complimentary for meeting planners

Register now at www.destinationMI.com Opportunities to sponsor/exhibit: Kim@destinationMI.com

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REGIONAL NEWS

AWARDS»

Michigan Brewers Guild 2020 Awards

The Michigan Brewers Guild presented two awards to industry leaders at its annual conference on Jan. 9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo. The Tom Burns Award was presented to Ron Jeffries, cofounder and head brewer of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales in Dexter, and the Michigan Beer Champion Award was presented to Shawn Gary, president of Alliance Beverage Distributing in Grand Rapids.

Ron Jeffries

HSMAI RECOGNIZES MICHIGAN COMPANIES

received a Bronze Award in the Integrated Marketing Campaign category for its Long Live Summer campaign. Long Live Summer was the guiding light for the 2018 Pure Michigan summer campaign that integrated the efforts of advertising agency McCann Detroit, media buying agency UM, and PR agency Current Global to inspire travel to Michigan in a way that evolved the campaign while staying true to the brand.

Additional winning entries from Michigan destinations and properties, in partnership with their digital agency TwoSix Digital, include: Frankenmuth Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Silver for Frankenmuth Shoulder Season Campaign Traverse City Tourism Silver for Traverse City Hotels and Accommodations Summer Escape Campaign Crystal Mountain Bronze for Crystal Mountain Summer Getaway Promotion

“It was a great honor for our work to be recognized on a national level,” says Dave Serino, founder and chief strategist at TwoSix Digital.

“We’re very thankful for the opportunity to work with such a great group of clients and we’re looking forward to more continued success in the future.”

P H OTO S : M I C H I G A N B R E W E R S G U I L D ; H S M A I (O P P O S I T E ) TC F C E N T E R

Shawn Gary

At the 63rd annual Adrian Awards, the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) honored Travel Michigan with a Platinum Award for Public Relations Innovation for the creation of and supporting campaign around the Pure Sounds of Michigan album.

Pure Sounds of Michigan is an ambient album, a first-of-its-kind project by a travel brand that takes listeners on a sunrise-tosunset tour of the state to both inspire travel to Michigan and evoke fond memories. The album is comprised of songs composed by Michigan artists utilizing recordings of nature from Michigan State Parks. Launched to coincide with the Michigan State Park Centennial in 2019, and produced by Detroit-based Assemble Sound, the album reached No. 9 on the Billboard New Age chart.

“We are fortunate to have a beautiful state and no shortage of images to showcase that, but we wanted to inspire travel in a new, immersive way,” says Dave Lorenz, vice president of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Pure Sounds of Michigan is a true love letter to the state, from the natural sounds of gentle streams and rolling waves to the Michigan artists involved, it is an honor for this initiative to be recognized by our peers in the travel industry.”

In addition to being recognized for Pure Sounds of Michigan, Travel Michigan also

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P H OTO S : M I C H I G A N B R E W E R S G U I L D ; H S M A I (O P P O S I T E ) TC F C E N T E R

RESOURCES»

Welcome to the DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomfield Hills Detroit Offering eight meeting rooms totaling 12,000 square feet of newly renovated event space and an exquisite outdoor courtyard, the DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomfield Hills Detroit is Oakland County’s premier place to meet. The on-site restaurant, Zalman’s, offers an old-world delicatessen experience, while The Duke lobby bar is the perfect spot to grab a cocktail in-between meetings. 144 completely updated guest rooms provide absolute comfort to your out-of-town guests.

Our in-house catering and events team will coordinate the perfect

TCF Center’s Event Planning Guide TCF Center recently published its updated 2020 Event Planning Guide, delivering all of the latest resources, floor plans and rules and regulations needed to hold an event in the venue.

“TCF Center has a professional and experienced team that partners with the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau and the regional hospitality community to fully support shows and conventions at the facility," says Claude Molinari, general manager. "This guide leads event planners through every phase of their events.” Download the 68-page guide at tcfcenterdetroit.com.

corporate event while you sit back and take care of business as usual in a space that’s anything but.

Book 20 or more rooms and receive: • One complimentary guest room • $50 gift certificate to Zalman’s

39475 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 www.doubletreebloomfieldhills.com 248.644.1400

• A one-hour welcome reception

Book between now and September 30, 2020

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SNAPSHOTS PURE MICHIGAN GOVERNOR’S CONFERENCE

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2020 Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism

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The 2020 Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism was held at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel Feb. 18-20.

The event featured three days of workshops, keynote speakers and networking opportunities. Speakers included Clayton Reid (CEO, MMGY Global), Rick Wade (vice president, U.S. Chamber of Commerce) and Elnian Gilbert (trainer, Zingerman’s ZingTrain). Workshops covered a range of topics including accessible travel, content marketing, optimizing your digital presence and more.

The opening day included a Michigan Cares for Tourism volunteer project that helped refurbish two historic buildings in Grand Rapids, and an opening reception at New Holland Brewing’s The Knickerbocker, sponsored by Experience Grand Rapids. The Pure Michigan reception and awards dinner took place on Feb. 19.

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1. Ken Hayward, Grand Hotel, accepts the 2020 Pure Michigan Legacy Award.

The Legacy Award is the premiere award given during the Pure Michigan Award ceremonies. 2. Elnian Gilbert, closing keynote speaker. 3. Dave Lorenz, vice president of Travel Michigan. 4. Doug Small, CEO of Experience Grand Rapids, accepts a TICOM Collaboration Award on behalf of his organization. 5. Mary Kerr, CEO of Destination Ann Arbor, accepts a TICOM Collaboration Award.

6. Michigan DNR staffers present a Pure Michigan Trail Award. 7. Rick Wade, vice president, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Thursday morning’s kickoff keynote speaker. –Photos by MI Economic Development Corporation SUBMIT YOUR EVENT PHOTOS To have your meeting or event photos featured here, contact the editor at mike.munzenrider@tigeroak.com.

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PEOPLE PROFILE KEN HAYWARD

ISLAND LIFE

Ken Hayward eyes another season at Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.

B Y K E L L Y S K A R R I T T- W I L L I A M S en Hayward has spent nearly his entire career serving at one hotel. But when you start your career at one of the most iconic and historic hotels in Michigan— even the nation—it’s hard to see yourself anywhere else. Hayward, executive vice president and managing director of Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, was recently named Hotelier of the Year by Historic Hotels of America. This honor comes decades after Hayward was given an unexpected opportunity.

“I didn’t find the hospitality industry, the hospitality industry found me,” says Hayward, who earned a bachelor of general studies degree but had hoped to play professional baseball. However, another path opened to him instead. A contact through his university suggested him for a summer job as convention services manager at Grand Hotel. He decided to give it a shot.

“I planned on staying a summer and now it will be 35 years in August,” says Hayward.

“I fell in love with Grand Hotel and Mackinac Island.” He says he learned a lot in his early years at the hotel by just watching its owners. “The way the Musser family cared about the guests and owned a seasonal hotel was really special. You felt like you were part of the special potion that makes it work. I felt like I had found my calling.”

The hotel was built in 1887 and has been open every summer season since. Although the hotel has gone through many extensive renovations over the years, including the addition of 101 rooms and other luxury amenities in the time he’s been there, Hayward says so much hasn’t changed.

“We are a unique experience that our guests appreciate, which may be lost

on some people,” he says. “Historical buildings that have been taken care of are treasures. People will continue to look for that experience.”

Hayward says he feels very humbled to receive the Hotelier of the Year award, mostly because he recognizes that he cannot do what he does without his talented and dedicated staff supporting him.

“I’ve worked with so many great people; our management team has been here a long time, over 20 years themselves. They make me look good every day,” he says.

Despite his modesty, Hayward has had a distinguished career, not just with Grand Hotel, but also with groups like the Michigan Travel Commission. He served as chairman of the commission during the conception and development of the

successful Pure Michigan campaign.

“I was in the right place at the right time, and I’m very proud to have been involved with that,” says Hayward. “What that campaign did for Michigan was give them a sense of pride for their state.”

As he now prepares for his 35th summer at Grand Hotel, starting May 1, Hayward compares the preparations to training for a baseball season.

“On Mackinac Island, the parallels to baseball are so similar. You prepare for months leading up to ‘game time.’ Every day is different, and it keeps you young.”

Get Connected GRAND HOTEL grandhotel.com | 800.334.7263

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

K

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

Photo by Mission Detroit Photography

What if your next big event could inspire the next big idea?

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Take it forward.®

Imagine an event that could truly change people’s perspectives. One that could open minds and widen eyes as guests stand in awe of the power of unlimited inspiration. Make your event stand out in a place where innovation sets the stage for unforgettable experiences. From awards galas to product launches, we’ll make sure your vision is fully realized and your event is completely inspired.

See why The Henry Ford is the most awarded venue in Michigan. thf.org/privateevents AN EXCITING NEW EXHIBIT AND EVENT SPACE COMING THIS SUMMER — DRIVEN TO WIN: RACING IN AMERICA.

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