PASSION + DETAIL HANA APRIL INC. PERSONIFIES AUTHENTICITY & EXPERIENCES
Feature // Dash of Distinction
BY JULIE KENDRICK
Dream up something different and book these evocative venues that will have attendees buzzing
6 Meeting Notes
Take meetings from drab to fab with the help of these products, places, and inspiring ideas
8 Destination
Just minutes from the state’s largest airport, Bloomington boasts world-class shopping and meeting venues aplenty
14 Meet + Eat
The hottest new Twin Cities restaurants for groups
22 Industry Update
Discover the latest updates and Minnesota news
28 People Profile
Creativity and diverse viewpoints form the core of event designer Hana April Chughtai’s business strategy
Award-winning mini-golf course at St. Paul’s Can Can Wonderland
just m tings.
Bismarck-Mandan offers more than just top-tier meeting spaces—the end of the workday is just the beginning! Unwind with scenic trails, a Missouri River cruise, or local flavors that satisfy every taste. From historic sites to vibrant nightlife, there’s always more to explore. Plan your next event here and discover why Bismarck-Mandan is more than just meetings! noboundariesnd.com
Surprise, Surprise
» AS A MEETING PLANNER, you probably attend many events each year that contain exactly what you would expect them to: robust trade shows with lots of useful vendors, conferences with informative educational sessions, and annual meetings with inspiring keynoters, to name a few. These traditional event elements are important, but if hardpressed to describe a specific educational session a year after the event, you might draw a blank. The reality is what attendees remember later is often those totally unexpected agenda items. Thus, the best event element is often the element of surprise.
meetingsmags.com/minnesota meetingsmags
One exciting addition to the schedule might be an unannounced celebrity guest, perhaps showing up to hobnob at an opening-night networking session. (You don’t have to book the Dalai Lama for this, as an area celebrity or industry luminary well-known to attendees could fit the bill.) How about bringing in a flash mob that breaks into a choreographed, spontaneous dance routine during an otherwise straightforward event? If you are good with details and a little on the thoughtful side, hand out personalized gifts tied to the interests of your attendees. (You can ask questions to get at this information during the registration process.) Halfway through your event, consider transforming the main venue room by changing the lighting, decor, and special effects, giving your event a refreshed, all-new feel. There are talented musicians out there who can improvise music based on audience input, perhaps submitted via the event app.
To create the most effective event twists, focus your energy on incorporating fun elements to energize attendees. People generally remember fondly the fun things, and anytime you ramp up attendee excitement—or any positive feelings—it elevates the good vibes surrounding the event itself. The results lie in social media posts that tout your event and repeat attendance when registration rolls around next year.
This issue of Minnesota Meetings + Events showcases unconventional gathering places, which also can defy expectations. St. Paul’s Hmong Cultural Center Museum, Hangar 97 in Forest Lake, and Duluth’s Glensheen Mansion will each leave a strong impression on meeting-goers. And chances are, many of your attendees have never visited them before. In Minnesota, the options are nearly endless to surprise—and delight.
TODD R. BERGER Editor-in-Chief tberger@greenspring.com
meetingsmags.com/minnesota
PRESIDENT TAMMY GALVIN
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER – NATIONAL SALES JENNIFER MAX 612-371-5892 | JMAX@GREENSPRING.COM
For high-quality reprints of 500 or more, call 612-371-5849 or email danderson@greenspring.com.
For address changes, ordering single copies, cancellations, or general questions about your subscription, please contact customer service at 866-660-6247.
9401 James Ave. S., Suite 152, Bloomington, MN 55431
Phone 612-371-5800 Fax 612-371-5801
HOUR MEDIA
CEO STEFAN WANCZYK
PRESIDENT JOHN BALARDO
The pages between the covers of this magazine (except for any inserted material) are made from wood fiber that was procured from forests that are sustainably
DISCOVER A NEW FRONTIER FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT IN GREATER ST. CLOUD. OUR VIBRANT AREA OFFERS A UNIQUE BLEND OF URBAN ENERGY AND NATURAL BEAUTY, MAKING IT THE PERFECT BACKDROP FOR UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES!
YOUR EVENT, OUR FREE SUPPORT
• 1,500+ HOTEL ROOMS
• 2 CONVENTIONS CENTERS WITH 1 THAT HAS 150,000 SQ. FT OF MEETING SPACE
• FLEXIBLE AND UNIQUE MEETING SPACES
• CENTRAL MINNESOTA’S LIVE ENTERTAINMENT HOTSPOT
• EVENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
• COMPLIMENTARY HIGH CLASS SERVICES
A Convenient Meetings Mecca
TWoodbury brings its A game for meetings and events, with golf, shopping, venues galore, and a burgeoning destination marketing organization BY
TODD R. BERGER
he eastern Twin Cities suburb of Woodbury recently launched its destination mar keting organization (DMO), Destination: Woodbury, in fall 2023. Eric Satre, destina tion marketing manager for the organization, came on board last May. “The exciting thing is this is a brand-new DMO, so it’s really a blank slate,” Satre says, describing his work developing the organization from the ground up. But blank does not mean “empty,” and Satre has been developing tools to promote the thriving city of Woodbury since his hiring, including the launch of the organization’s website and branding in early April. Satre adds, “We have top-tier facilities and venues for meetings, events, and tourna ments, plus the city is easy to get to, easy to get around, and has ample free parking.”
VIBE: Satre describes Woodbury as a “convenient gateway to the Twin Cities,” noting that it is 17 miles from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and 10 miles east of downtown St. Paul. It is a modern city rich with natural beauty, including 60 parks encompassing 3,600 acres, eight lakes, and 180 miles of trails.
TRANSPORTATION: All major airlines serve Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, which is a hub for Delta Air Lines and Sun Country Airlines. In late March, Metro Transit launched the Metro Gold Line bus rapid transit line from Woodbury
to downtown St. Paul, with connections via Metro Green Line light-rail trains to Minneapolis and beyond. Once in Woodbury, visitors can take advantage of Metro Transit’s convenient ride-sharing service, Metro Micro, to move around the city.
VENUES: Central Park, a community hub, reopens this fall after a $40 million renovation. It includes versatile meeting space for up to 325 attendees seated, catering, free parking, and a visitors center. M Health Fairview Sports Center is one of the largest multiuse sports facilities in the state and contains 90,000
MYSTIC LAKE: ONE-STOP SHOP
» WHEN GATHERING AT THE MYSTIC LAKE CENTER
can not only take part in engaging events but also try their luck at Ultimate Texas Hold ’em and slot machines. The 70,000-square-foot center at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel has three ballrooms, the largest with room for 2,177 meeting-goers. Additional meeting rooms, a patio, and boardroom allow options for planners, and the adjoining 180-room hotel and neighboring championship golf course add to the venue’s appeal. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is the largest casino in the Midwest and one of the closest to the Twin Cities, lying 23 miles from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
Colby Lake, one of Woodbury’s eight lakes; Right: Sheraton St. Paul Woodbury Hotel
Minnetonka Ballroom at Mystic Lake Center
Bloomington Means Business
Bloomington’s prime location and meetings-oriented venues make it one of Minnesota’s top destinations for planners BY
» BLOOMINGTON has for many decades been a welcoming hub for businesses and organizations looking to host meetings, conferences, and corporate retreats. One of the city’s greatest strengths is its ability to blend business with leisure, creating a holistic meeting experience for guests. Attendees flying into the MinneapolisSt. Paul International Airport (MSP) can reach their hotel in minutes, thanks to the city’s proximity to the transportation hub. Bloomington’s more than 45 accommodations range from upscale hotels to cozy stays for small groups, many of which cater to business events with sophisticated meeting spaces and on-site catering.
At the heart of all this hospitality is Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism, a valuable resource for planners seeking expert guidance on venues, accommodations, and local attractions. The convention and visitors bureau offers planning guidance for events across 13 different markets, including corporate medical technology/ pharmaceutical, sports, and associations.
“Our location at the doorstep of MSP makes it easy for attendees to get to their conference fast, and, with free shuttles to
and from most hotels, it is easy,” says Bonnie Carlson, president and CEO of Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism.
“I always say, if you’re sourcing Chicago or parts of the Midwest, check out Bloomington. We have the largest concentration of hotels in the state and every major hotel flag, so you can choose from many planner rewards programs if you book your group.”
“We have the largest concentration of hotels in the state and every major hotel flag, so you can choose from many planner rewards programs.”
–BONNIE CARLSON, PRESIDENT AND CEO, BLOOMINGTON MINNESOTA TRAVEL & TOURISM
KATHERINE LAWLESS
Beyond its business-minded accommodations and venues, Bloomington’s prime location provides easy access to the thriving cultural and entertainment scene of the Twin Cities. Within a 20-minute drive are several world-class institutions such as the Walker Art Center, the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and the Guthrie Theater, all of which are inspiring settings for offsite meetings or post-conference outings. Sports fans and music lovers alike will appreciate the proximity to major venues like U.S. Bank Stadium, Target Field, and Xcel Energy Center, which host everything from professional football, hockey, and baseball games to high-profile concerts and national touring productions. Be sure to see what is on the calendar during your event and take advantage of these convenient group activities.
UNDER ONE ROOF
A well-rounded event itinerary extends beyond meeting rooms and dinner reservations, and Bloomington boasts nationally known leisure attractions to enhance the attendee experience. Mall of America, the largest retail destination in the country,
The Lounge, a casual meeting space at Mall of America
Why settle for ordinary? Elevate your next event at Duluth’s premier destination with on-site lodging and dining, spacious meeting rooms, modern breakout spaces, and a breathtaking lakeside setting with plenty to do on site. The perfect blend of business and leisure, all in one place.
pierbresort.com
is more than just a shopping mall—it is a dynamic venue for team-building activities, entertainment, and one-of-a-kind event spaces. Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism’s “Under One Roof” offering showcases this perfectly, helping planners take advantage of the mall’s 83,000 square feet of meeting space, 842 hotel rooms between JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America and Radisson Blu Mall of America, and cohesive audiovisual (AV) capabilities. Plus, group bonding is sure to happen over mini golf at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf or The Fair on 4, an ax-throwing and go-karting experience modeled after the Minnesota State Fair. Convention and visitors bureau staff also can curate several experiences for event attendees that enhance focus and fun. “One trend we’ve noticed recently is a focus on wellness, with initiatives like mindfulness workshops and healthy food options,” says Carlson. “Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism partners with Lululemon Mall of America on a yoga experience for groups, with a 40-minute beginner yoga class and grab-and-go breakfast at the Lululemon Fuel Space before a meeting or conference starts for the day. It has been a great selling point for us.”
LUXURY MEETS FUNCTION
With a wide selection of upscale hotels, Bloomington ensures both corporate and nonprofit events are executed with style, professionalism, and efficiency. The JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, known for its refined ambience and impeccable service, contains many meeting spaces that cater to business functions. Its largest space, the Diamond Ballroom, can host up to 1,725 guests theater-style and includes access to 12 breakout rooms, allowing attendees to exchange ideas in a more intimate setting.
The Radisson Blu Mall of America offers versatile event options, all within steps of the mall’s retail and entertainment, and frequently hosts gatherings ranging from Fortune 500 company conferences to galas. The hotel’s events team often receives feedback that planners enjoy the ease of working with them, as well as the hotel’s stunning spaces, excellent service, and the ability to dine on a gourmet meal or take a roller-coaster ride postsession.
“Sustainability, immersive tech, and wellness-driven events are at the forefront,” says Kate Anastasi, director of sales and marketing for the Radisson Blu Mall of America. “Planners are looking for ways to make meetings more engaging—think interactive AV setups, hybrid experiences, and breaks that go beyond coffee.”
Equipped with up-to-date video conferencing and cutting-edge AV technology, Radisson Blu Mall of America events are executed with precision, for a polished and professional presentation. The hotel’s inhouse AV team, Avex, provides full-service support, ensuring engaging presentations and immersive experiences.
Near the airport, the Hyatt Regency Bloomington–Minneapolis offers contemporary facilities made for efficiency and comfort. For groups bringing family along for the ride, Great Wolf Lodge Minneapolis/ Bloomington has multiple meeting rooms— plus an indoor water park.
Lobby of the Radisson Blu Mall of America; Below: Hyatt Regency Bloomington–Minneapolis Central Station Grand Ballroom
A new generation MEETING places. of
Discover exceptional meetings at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel in Eagan, Minnesota. With 35,000 square feet of versatile space, state-of-the-art AV technology, and tailored planning, we redefine the event experience. Elevate your occasion with distinctive experiences, and explore our four restaurant and bar options, including Kyndred Hearth, where James Beard award-winning chef Ann Kim turns familiar favorites into culinary masterpieces. Guests can also unwind at Idlewild Spa and enjoy a Nordic spa experience. Book now to turn your meetings into lasting memories.
CULINARY EXCELLENCE
Dining plays an essential role in any event, and Bloomington’s restaurant scene includes a diverse selection of venues suited for corporate receptions and private functions. For on-site evenings, FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, located in the Radisson Blu Mall of America, has a warm and modern ambience perfect for networking over regionally inspired cuisine. Give guests a taste of Minnesota’s bounty with wild rice soup, Red Lake walleye, Wild Acres turkey, and more.
If you want to impress attendees with a classic steakhouse experience, Kincaid’s Fish, Chops & Steaks delivers a refined atmosphere with a patio option. Reach out
to its events team to coordinate indoor or outdoor private or semiprivate events.
For coastal-inspired options, book a private room at Smack Shack—known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere— for an authentic seafood boil with lobster, shrimp, prawns, and crab. Its Bloomington location offers several private dining spaces, including the Rockport room with space for 50 seated or 65 standing. Team bonding might come easily with an oyster-shucking class, available for attendees over age 21.
VENUES & ACTIVITIES
Beyond boardrooms and banquet halls, Bloomington offers planners distinctive
venues that elevate events. The Mall of America is home to several unconventional event spaces, from themed dining areas to entertainment-driven venues, making it a prime location for innovative corporate functions. The Japanese Garden at Normandale Community College introduces a peaceful retreat for networking and wellness-focused meetings.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Hyland Hills Ski Area and the Bush Lake Ski Jump provide recreational opportunities that add an edge to corporate events. These properties are popular and have private hosting capabilities, most often for picnics, banquets, fundraisers, and training sessions. Since it began hosting events in the newly renovated ski chalet in 2016, Hyland Hills has attracted many meeting planners seeking an outdoorsy event backdrop.
“The floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ski hill are the first thing you see when you come up the stairs, making you feel as though you are outside,” says Suzanne Claseman, sales and events specialist at Hyland Hills Ski Area. “We often draw in meeting groups who are eager to link their events to the great outdoors and also to winter sports.”
bloomingtonmn.org
Lobster roll at Smack Shack; Below, from left: Bloomington Central Station Park, along the Metro Blue Line light-rail route; Great Wolf Lodge Minneapolis/Bloomington
Continued from page 10
The Bloomington Diamond Service Awards was fi rst held in 1996 to honor the powerhouse that is Bloomington’s hospitality industry. From Mall of America retail stores to over 45 hotels, there are thousands of opportunities to work in hospitality in Bloomington, and the Diamond Service Awards aim to recognize those who make the greatest positive impact on the destination’s visitors. This year’s gala was held on April 22, 2025, and honored recipients from 15 categories, along with the winner of the Spirit of Hospitality Award and inductees into the Hospitality Hall of Fame.
SPIRIT OF HOSPITALITY
Airport Foundation MSP is this year’s recipient of the Spirit of Hospitality Award, recognizing its vital role in enhancing the travel experience at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and supporting Bloomington’s tourism. Founded in 1982, the Foundation has evolved from beautification projects to essential traveler support, especially after taking over the Travelers Assistance program in 1992. With 32 employees and over 400 volunteers, it serves over 2 million travelers annually, promoting accessibility and showcasing the attractions of both MSP and the Bloomington area.
Congratulations, Airport Foundation MSP!
Fresh Eats
These recently opened restaurants satisfy hungry stomachs and planner checklists alike BY
LAUREN PAHMEIER
» NEW DINING DESTINATIONS are opening left and right in Minnesota. According to The Minnesota Star Tribune, the Twin Cities alone gained more than 160 restaurants last year. But while checking off places on the foodie bucket list is often a fun after-sessions activity for attendees, restaurants also prove to be more than just locales for social jaunts: They are contenders for corporate and nonprofit event venues, too. Thanks to the possibility of full buyouts and the availability of private dining spaces, there are many restaurants that host corporate dinners, happy hours, and networking receptions, providing a welcome diversion from the offerings of traditional catering companies, some of which attendees might have encountered dozens of times before. As a bonus, booking new restaurants as venues highlights your hipness to the North Star State’s evolving restaurant scene.
One of the most anticipated Twin Cities restaurant openings of last year was Diane’s Place in Northeast Minneapolis, perfect for planners requiring space for larger groups. At the helm is Diane Moua, well known for her tenure as executive pastry chef at Gavin Kaysen-owned establishments Spoon and Stable, Bellecour, and Demi. But Diane’s Place offers more than just pastries—it spans brunch, dinner, and cocktails—drawing upon ingredients and recipes inspired by Moua’s Hmong heritage. Groups of up to 150 seated
and 200 standing can enjoy dishes from the events menu at Events by Diane’s, the eatery’s adjoining 2,000-square-foot private event venue. Its Commons Room is the largest space for groups, while smaller crews can book the Tasting Room or the adjacent courtyard.
The icing on the cake at Diane’s Place is the stellar service, a common source of praise from planners. “Truly, I feel like I haven’t had service like that since probably the ’70s, where you got really good customer service and people focused on lovely hospitality, being gracious, and wanting to accommodate you,” says Julie Fedje-Johnston, who hosted a private event at Diane’s Place last December. “It was really a treat to have that attentiveness, that willingness to do what we wanted.”
Mao Xiong, event sales and coordination manager at Diane’s Place, says corporate and nonprofit groups often return again and again, capitalizing on the built-in audiovisual system, projectors, and screens. Xiong says, “I feel like what happens a lot of times with our partners is once they’ve done it here, they always come back. This becomes their place.”
Perched on the other half of the Twin Cities is Russell’s Saint Paul, a new restaurant in the former Tavern on Grand space on St. Paul’s Grand Avenue. Owner Todd Russell grew up on Grand Avenue, and wanted to bring a restaurant to the neighborhood that reflected the community in a modern way—creating a space that is elevated, yet relaxed and comfortable. “When you walk in, you sense the style and level of sophistication, but you don’t feel hurried. You don’t feel perhaps underdressed or out of place,” says Russell. Smaller groups can find a temporary home in the Holiday Room at Russell’s for dinners and cocktail parties, suitable for groups of 26 seated or 45 standing.
Continued on page 16
Events by Diane’s gathering space at Diane’s Place and the restaurant’s Thai tea French toast (left)
in Alexandria
Continued from page 14
The big cities are not the only places to find new restaurants for groups. Located in the Twin Cities suburb of Edina is Starling, a fine-dining restaurant from Minneapolis-based Jester Concepts that opened in April last year. Its semiprivate dining space is aptly named The Solarium, as it is filled with windows, natural light, and greenery. Sectioned off from the rest of the restaurant with a curtain instead of a wall, The Solarium preserves the eatery’s lively ambience and is ideal for social business gatherings for up to 40 people. Planners also can buy out Starling in its entirety to host 100 people for a reception-style event. Jester Concepts also opened a new location of the ever-popular Parlour in Excelsior, where planners can rent the whole space for 50 attendees, who are sure to devour plenty of the bar’s famous burgers.
In Rochester, you will find 1928 Cocktails and Bites, which opened in February of last year. The owner, Sammi Loo, opened the
Chinese-inspired cocktail lounge because she wanted a place for private events after opening Korean restaurant Bebap downstairs just a few months earlier. Her 1928 Cocktails and Bites is only open to the public on Friday and Saturday evenings, but corporate and nonprofit planners can host cocktail hours, private meals, and parties there Monday through Thursday. The space’s dim, red lighting and other design elements make attendees feel like they are enjoying a night out on the town in Shanghai—all while enjoying popular bites like Taiwanese popcorn chicken and cheese curd wontons.
Loo often books musicians on nights the lounge is open to the public, and offers it as an add-on for planners to add a little more festivity to gatherings. “It’s all about having fun,” says Loo.
1928mn.com dianesplacemn.com parlourbar.com
russellsstpaul.com starlingmn.com
Russell’s Saint Paul on Grand Avenue; Clockwise from above left: Parlour Excelsior; The Solarium semiprivate dining space, a poke bowl, and a lychee cocktail at Starling in Edina
Just 75 Miles from Denver, Colorado
Distinction
Take your events from so-so to sensational with remarkable, unconventional venues BY
JULIE KENDRICK
SOMETIMES A TRADITIONAL HOTEL BALLROOM is just the right solution when planning a meeting or event, whether for reasons of budget, location, or simply client preference. But at other times, a client will challenge meeting planners to provide something a bit more distinctive, and it will be up to them to locate and secure a venue that fits the bill—somewhere with an evocative atmosphere, a dose of fun, and a bit of quirkiness. From Duluth to the Twin Cities, there are many offbeat, extraordinary Minnesota venues to ramp up the adrenaline at your event.
Gleensheen Mansion’s Juliet Balcony & Terrace in Duluth overlooking the property’s garden and Lake Superior
Above:
Meeting experts understand that sometimes you need to think differently. “Hosting an event in a unique location helps differentiate it from the typical hotel ballroom or convention center setting, making everything feel more exciting and buzzworthy,” says Hana April Chughtai, owner and self-described “wicked visionary” at Hana April Inc., a global luxury event and design agency based in Minneapolis. (See the profile of Chughtai on page 28.)
“Unlike traditional event venues, which are more expected, unique spaces are well-received by attendees since they often include dynamic setups, activations, interactive installations, or unconventional seating arrangements,” Chughtai says. For corporate events or brand launches, she notes nontraditional venues provide a way to align the space with the brand’s identity. “They open up a world of possibilities, allowing hosts to create one-of-a-kind experiences tailored to their needs and audience.”
Of course, it can be a challenge to find an innovative venue at a moment’s notice, but luckily Minnesota has them in abundance. So, the next time you hear, “Surprise us with something different,” you can feel confident and prepared to put together an event unlike anything your client has seen before.
CULTURAL PICKS
Meetings held in culturally significant spaces can make perfect sense for the right group, Chughtai says. “Choosing a venue that promotes local culture can resonate positively with attendees, particularly those who value culturally rich experiences.”
One such option resides near downtown St. Paul—the Hmong Cultural Center Museum. Minneapolis-St. Paul has the largest
Hmong American community in the U.S. Mark Pfeifer, director of programs at the museum, says, “Before, during, or after their meeting, attendees can learn about Hmong history, culture, arts, and the contributions of Hmong people to Minnesota.” The museum can accommodate 50 people for a social event and around 30 for a meeting, and includes educational display panels and iPad video kiosks, as well as galleries of photos and embroidery. “Groups have appreciated the ability to incorporate cultural diversity and education about the community into their events,” Pfeifer says.
In Minneapolis, the American Swedish Institute explores the arts and culture of the country’s Swedish immigrants, and it can host a diverse range of event types. “I have had a great time working on multiple events with the American Swedish Institute team,”
Clockwise: Glensheen Mansion’s Winter Garden event space; Grand Hall at Turnblad Mansion, and Nelson Cultural Center courtyard, at the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis
says Lucie Ashe, senior event manager at Do Good Events based in St. Louis Park. She has hosted several distinct events there, from a designer fashion show to an international debate hosted with a Minneapolis university. The museum complex includes the Turnblad Mansion, completed in 1908, and the adjoining Nelson Cultural Center, completed in 2012. There is a spacious courtyard for an outdoor option, as well as classrooms and smaller spaces for breakout sessions, conferences, or focused meetings.
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Some venues in the state provide guests with plenty of “I’ve never been here before!” conversation starters. “Guests love having something unique to experience,” Ashe says. “The venue is really their first impression of the event, and using an unconventional space is a great way to show off right from the start.”
Gretchen Culver, owner and creative director of Rocket Science Events in Minneapolis, loves the boundless creativity and possibilities that open up when hosting at Hangar 97 in Forest Lake, a venue born out of a repurposed airplane hangar. “While logistically challenging in a variety of ways, it’s the ultimate blank canvas to be transformed,” she says. “The ability to bring guests in and out via the air, in planes or helicopters, is a unique perk.” The venue’s main level contains 10,000 square feet of space, including a catering kitchen, large mezzanine, bar area, and an outdoor terrace. The space can accommodate 440 people seated and up to 1,000 people standing.
Culver also recommends the Best Jets International aircraft hangar in St. Paul, where she recently held a nonprofit gala. One proviso: “Many hangars don’t have great climate control, specifically air conditioning, so that’s something to keep in mind when planning your event,” she says. “There are huge doors you can open up for a breeze.”
Shifting from the heights of an airplane to the depths of subterranean nightlife, planners will find a historic venue located along the Mississippi River in downtown St. Paul that is sure to get attendees chatting. A popular underground nightspot and gangster hideout in the 1930s, the modern Wabasha Street Caves event hall has 12,000 square feet of space finished with brick walls, stucco ceilings, and tile floors in the cocktail area. It accommodates up to 200 for a sit-down dinner. “I had a great time really playing with the venue to act as decor and ambience,” Ashe says. “Attendees loved the use of Prohibition-era theming and speakeasy vibes.”
Also in St. Paul, Can Can Wonderland is one of those places that can bring a smile to the face of even the grumpiest attendee. Located in an old factory where tin cans were once made, the space now features 18 holes of indoor, artist-designed mini golf; an arcade with 150 retro machines; and a tap wall where guests can pour draft beer, seltzers, and ciders. “The beauty of the layout is that groups can arrive together, convene at a muster point within the venue, and then break out into smaller groups to play golf or games, watch live entertainment on stage, eat, drink, and socialize,” says Can Can Wonderland Director of Marketing and Special Projects Jeannie Kenevan. The venue holds up to 1,000 people and has private party spaces for groups ranging from 15 to 150.
A STORIED PAST
With a perfect combination of history, mystery, and modern conveniences, Glensheen Mansion in Duluth is a terrific option for your next unconventional gathering. The 1908 mansion is located along the northern shore of Lake Superior on a 12-acre estate. “Not only is our venue a historic and iconic location, but we’re also wellequipped to host many different types of events,” says Marketing Manager Mike Mayou. “We accommodate groups of up to 160 in our indoor spaces and 200 to 250 outdoors seasonally.”
If you are searching for a facility that embodies industrial elegance, Duluth’s Clyde Iron Works might be just the ticket. Its team is proud of the vibe they have created there. An active industrial site that originally opened in 1899, the space transformed with a dramatic three-year restoration and now includes event spaces, a restaurant, bar, and brewery. “The craftsmanship and detail that once occurred within these walls have been instilled in this versatile and flexible venue,” says Events Manager Antonia Giuliani Hughes. “Its large and flexible spaces are extremely adaptable.” The entire space is available for up to 2,000 people.
Closer to the Twin Cities, Woods Retreat in Orono, created from a renovated 140-year-old chapel in a forest, opened this spring for events business. “This is a stunning, picturesque event center that features several indoor and outdoor spaces,” Chughtai says. Located on 5 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and grounds, just waiting for your attendees to explore, Woods Retreat seats up to 250 for an elegant dinner. This naturally gorgeous setting is just steps from Lake Minnetonka, one of Minnesota’s most popular and scenic bodies of water.
Clockwise from above: Gathering at St. Paul’s Wabasha Street Caves; Clyde Iron Works in Duluth; Self-service tap wall at Can Can Wonderland in St. Paul;
TIPS TO CONSIDER
Choosing an unusual venue might be your ticket to an all-raves event, but there are a few considerations to make and chat about during initial calls and walk-throughs. “There can be some challenges, like limited setup time, as some of these venues act as businesses outside of event hours,” Ashe says. “The venues might not have traditional floor plans or layouts that work for a classic setup, and seating sometimes has to be creative. Another thing to note is that sometimes these spaces have unique load-in areas that don’t accommodate larger trucks, and some historic spaces might not be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible.”
On the plus side, Ashe notes, you might find a much more open-minded atmosphere at places where events are not part of the everyday routine. “They might have more flexible options and fewer restrictions for things like vendors, allowing you to do things a little more your way or bring some of your favorite suppliers into the mix,” she says.
Ashe is convinced that even if hosting at a nontraditional venue takes a bit more flexibility from client, planner, and venue staff, it can all be very much worth it. “I think broadening your venue mindset to include unconventional options can really elevate attendees’ experiences,” she says. “There will definitely be some challenges, but setting your event apart by hosting in a space guests might not be familiar with is a way to create a memorable experience. It’s also an opportunity to work through creative solutions for challenges and really learn and grow as a planner.”
M inneapolis’ Swervo Development Corp. has partnered with Live Nation Entertainment of Beverly Hills, California, on the management of the 19,000-person amphitheater coming to Shakopee this fall. The state-of-the-art venue will serve as the anchor tenant of Canterbury Commons, a $400 million entertainment
CONVENTION CENTER HOTEL REOPENS
The former Millenium Minneapolis, next to the Minneapolis Convention Center, closed last November to embark on a $40 million renovation and rebranding. The newly named Sheraton Minneapolis Downtown Convention Center reopened in April, with 33,150 square feet of redesigned meeting space, including an iconic rooftop dome with panoramas of the Minneapolis skyline, 19 meeting rooms, and capacity for 450 attendees theater-style in the dividable Mill City Ballroom. The Sheraton Minneapolis Downtown Convention Center is one of the closest hotels to the Minneapolis Convention Center, and the two are connected via skyway. The hotel also welcomed two new dining concepts, plus remodeled guest rooms and suites.
“I am proud to introduce and work alongside this team of highly talented professionals, who share a dedication to delivering the highest standards of hospitality,” says Austin Tyler-Thull, general manager of the hotel, in a prepared statement. “We look forward to welcoming guests traveling to Minneapolis with our commitment to providing exceptional service and creating memorable experiences.”
A Premier Minnesota Venue for Meetings and Events
•
• Corporate Receptions
• Networking Events
• Nonprofit Fundraisers
• Recording Sessions & Livestream Events
MEET MINNEAPOLIS FOCUSES ON WOMEN’S SPORTS, CIVIL RIGHTS
Meet Minneapolis announced in late February at the Meet Minneapolis Annual Meeting the launch of an ambitious, long-range tourism vision titled “Destination Minneapolis: Charting the Future of Minneapolis Tourism.” This 10-year road map ensures Minneapolis continues to be a dynamic, competitive, and welcoming place for meetings, conventions, and events, as well as for business and leisure travelers.
“Minneapolis is a world-class city, and more people are choosing to live, work, and visit here every day,” says Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey in a prepared statement. “As we compete for business, customers, entertainment, and investment, we’re harnessing the power of tourism to drive growth. The initiatives in this plan do more than attract visitors—they fuel economic expansion, bring major events to our city, open new doors for local businesses, and enhance the quality of life for all residents.”
The destination master plan includes five high-level strategic goals, including creating a nationally competitive convention center district; developing new and enhancing existing festivals and events year-round; establishing Minneapolis as a national leader in equity and reconciliation; increasing downtown vibrancy and expanding mixed-use riverfront development; and expanding and diversifying lifestyle experiences.
To advance these goals, six main ideas were identified to help transform the city’s visitor economy and enhance the quality of life for residents:
» Establish Minneapolis as the No. 1 city for women’s sports
» Enhance Minneapolis’ nightlife scene to be a vibrant, thriving night economy
» Modernize the Minneapolis Convention Center to enhance competitive advantage and create a signature convention center district
» Improve connections to the central riverfront near the post office site and the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam
» Embrace Minneapolis as a catalyst of the modern-day civil rights movement
» Develop an iconic event that showcases Minneapolis’ commitment to social justice
“Minneapolis needs to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving tourism landscape,” says Meet Minneapolis President and CEO Melvin Tennant. “Tourism isn’t just about attracting visitors; it’s about building a stronger Minneapolis for everyone.”
minneapolis.org
Bringing Brands to Life
Event designer Hana April Chughtai chats about the authenticity, logistics, and creativity behind indelible activations
BY TODD R. BERGER
Hana April Chughtai of Minneapolis-based Hana April Inc. proudly claims the title of “wicked visionary” for her role as the leader of a creative events agency laser-focused on authentic brand connection through global gatherings and experiences. “The world of events became so muddled over time with what you need to do at an event [itself],” Chughtai explains. “It is easy to lose sight of what the goal or focus is. The most important considerations for any event are authenticity, human connection, and the experience attendees go through that will be memorable.”
But to create such unforgettable touch points, Minnetonka-raised Chughtai recognizes that the end goal is part of a meticulous process. “A perfectly planned event starts in the logistics and in the organization,” she says. “The millions of details we ensure are top notch for our clients are handled internally by our team before the event. Then the event is essentially the product; it’s the outcome of what we have already practiced, planned, and perfected in the office.”
However, what requires preplanning is not always clear at first, Chughtai says, and that is where her talented team at Hana April Inc. comes in. “A lot of times, our clientele comes to us and says, ‘I don’t know, we want to do something to showcase our brand and engage our attendees,’” she says. Her creative team then gets together to brainstorm offbeat and cutting-edge ideas to enact for the client. “When we put those creative ideas in motion, the feedback is often, ‘Wow! I really saw people resonating and interacting with the brand. I see how the activations are creating an authentic connection.’ At that point, we really feel that everything came full circle.”
Chughtai built her company to align with her core values of diversity and inclusion. She says this emphasis not only promotes a breadth of viewpoints and experiences, but it is also good for business. When executing a recent project and event for personal-care brand Dove, her team created an installation centered on the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act movement, a push for federal and state legislation that prevents discrimination based on an individual’s texture or style of hair. (Laws inspired by the movement have been enacted in 27 states.) “Being the diverse company we are, we understood what Dove was looking for,” she says. “The end result was a beautifully planned activation, and Dove felt its audience resonated with our work. Our team feels good working for causes such as the CROWN Act—it felt like an important task. We are super passionate about bringing new things to the table and showcasing the different light of our talents.”
WHERE BIG IDEAS
Meet Big Fun
Bloomington, MN was built for better get-togethers. It’s a breeze to get around, with 45-plus hotels and thousands of square feet of meeting space within minutes of the airport. Plus, you get all the shops and attractions of Mall of America® and easy access to the Twin Cities. Start planning your meeting and get the best value for the most amount of fun.
