BUDGET PLANNING & UNICORNS,
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Accurately budgeting for a group can be daunting, even for the most seasoned professionals. Because today’s economy is squeezing company budgets, every penny and point counts. The time and effort that goes into planning where every dollar is spent is considerable and it’s easy to overspend, even on the essentials. Saving money and earning travel points is the name of the game when it comes to budget planning for a large group retreat. Our first tip to nail your budget is to begin with hotel perks. Some properties include travel points, on-site activities, and upgrades for large group or corporate bookings, saving you time and money on planning. Some do regardless of the size of your group. Find the hotel with the best perks and you’ve found your meeting planning unicorn. Our experts have gathered a few bonus tips as well!
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In an interview with Diane Friedland, Conference Service Manager at Westin with over 20 years of experience in the industry, she spelled out her top tips:
- Get creative at mealtime: Implement cost-saving swaps like offering a chicken and vegetarian option but omitting beef.
- Save on activities: Inquire with your property about potential substitutions during activities, such as hosting a guacamole-and-salsa-making contest instead of a margarita and guacamole making class.
- Ask and you shall receive: Some properties have a fitness concierge who could lead a running group, a team walk, or group stretching for free. It’s always good to inquire about the property's offerings!
- Decor and design savings: The banquet services at a property may already have elegant decor and finishes that align with your needs. Before renting from a third party, check the in-house offerings to save money.
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Our team has curated some of our best property deals for your next retreat. Take a look below and start planning your budget-friendly trip today!
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ARE YOU PLANNING A MEETING NOW OR WILL YOU BE SOON?
Choose either button and you'll be fast-tracked to our VIP list.
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THE WESTIN AT THE WOODLANDS
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*Valid for new group business, not yet contracted, only arriving in 2024 and cannot be combined with another promotion or incentive. This promotion is based on availability. Some exclusions may apply to the master rebate. Book by 4/15/2024
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Discover the perfect blend of work and play at The Westin In The Woodlands | With over 16 versatile meeting spaces, our venue accommodates both intimate gatherings and expansive conferences. Nestled along The Woodlands Waterway, our location offers more than business amenities. Immerse yourself in various activities, from kayaking to shopping and dining, all within walking distance.
Earn double Marriott Bonvoy points and extra rewards when booking your 2024 event or meeting before 7/31/2024.
Contract Your Group To Receive The Following:
1-100 Total Room Nights:
- Double Points
- 1% Rebate to Master Bill
101-500 Total Room Nights:
- Double Points
- 3% Rebate to Master Bill
501+ Total Room Nights:
- Double Points
- 3% Rebate to Master Bill
- 1-hour complimentary Beer & Wine Reception
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*Offer valid for new contracts signed before 6/30/2024 for events and meetings held before 7/31/2024. Terms and conditions apply.
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Double your rewards | Close to everywhere you and your attendees want to be in downtown St. Louis, our 8,000+ sq. ft. of meeting and event space is ideally suited for maximum productivity and perfectly complemented by gracious hospitality. Our expert meeting professionals are ready to coordinate the details of your event allowing you to focus on networking with your guests.
Earn double Marriott Bonvoy points, plus extra rewards when you book your 2024 event or meeting before 7/31/2024.
Book 10-35 guestrooms & enjoy two of the following:
- Five suite upgrades
- One staff room at 50% off
- 1.5% rebate to the master account
Book 37-75 guestrooms & enjoy three of the following:
- Six suite upgrades
- Waived meeting room rental for general session
- Complimentary one-hour beer and wine reception
- 2% rebate to the master account
- 2 VIP welcome amenities
Book 75+ guestrooms & enjoy four of the following:
- 10 suite upgrades
- Waived meeting room rental for general session & one breakout room
- Complimentary one-hour beer and wine reception
- 3% rebate to the master account
- Three VIP welcome amenities
- Three staff rooms at 50% discount
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*Book now for stays through December 31, 2025.
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Find the ideal venue for your next event | Claridge House offers flexible event space in the heart of Chicago's Gold Coast. Let us accommodate your next event, whether a conference lunch, dinner, or custom-made event, to suit your needs, tastes, and budgets.
Book your next group meeting at Claridge House and receive the following:
- 10% commission on actualized room revenue
- One complimentary room upgrade for VIP at group rate
- One complimentary room upgrade for main contact at group rate
- Welcome treat for all attendees (hotel’s choice)
- 60% attrition
- Waived meeting room rental
- 20% audio-visual discount
- Reduced Urban Fee ($10 per room, per day + tax)
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Group contracts are currently being offered for select dates. Reach out promptly to avoid
disappointment.
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Pier Sixty-Six Resort | Opening in the autumn of 2024, Pier Sixty-Six is a luxurious waterfront venue for meetings and events in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Plan an unforgettable event in over 40,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting space or host a private
celebration in one of three beautiful new ballrooms, each featuring its own spin on South Florida refinement.
Hotel Polaris | Hotel Polaris at the US Air Force Academy in picturesque Colorado Springs is set for a grand opening in autumn of 2024. This uniquely positioned property will be open to all and is designed with group events,
conferences, executive retreats, meetings of all sizes, and weddings in mind. With 26,000 sf. of meeting and event space, Polaris can host intimate group gatherings as well as conferences for large programs with equal ease. The outdoor event terrace will take full advantage of the stunning view of the Rocky Mountains for which the Air Force Academy is renowned. Team-building activities are abundant, from outdoor adventures to time inside real flight simulators.
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MEET THE GLOBAL SALES TEAM
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