Mid-Atlantic Roadshow Wrap Up

Last week we toured the beautiful and historic Mid-Atlantic states.
The history, the elegance, the service, the food, the playfulness, and the people all overwhelmed us in the best way possible.

From the historic Riggs Hotel Washington D.C. where we felt the history of our nation and the elegance of the city. Is there anyone more cultured and more well-versed than a savvy event planner and hotelier?

To the Archer Hotel Tysons in Virginia where we learned exactly WHY Virginia is for LOVERS. We sure love our meeting planners and event specialists!

Next stop was Morristown, New Jersey and the playful ambiance of the Topgolf Swing Suites at 1776 by David Burke. We knew Meeting Planners were fun, but you came to play, New Jersey!

And finally, what a treat, Steak 48 in Philadelphia, PA. Philly…you showed UP. What a special day we had with you at this fabulous venue and what…a…meal!

Thank you to everyone – hotel partners, meeting planners and event specialists who made the maiden Mid-Atlantic Roadshow such a smashing success! We appreciate you so much!

Morristown Roadshow Stop – Topgolf Swing Suites: enjoy the Topgolf experience in luxury hospitality venues

As event professionals we have watched the Topgolf experience explode in popularity in cities across the country over the last several years with new locations popping up on a regular basis. From casual office gatherings to client entertainment it has become a steady option on a list of proposed venues. Topgolf has now raised that experience to become a more exclusive and luxurious option for our clients with their new Topgolf Swing Suites.

Through the premium experience of play, food and beverage and music, Topgolf inspires people of all ages and skill levels to come together for playful competition. The newest extension of Topgolf combines the simulated Topgolf experience with the luxurious atmospheres of hospitality and entertainment venues across the country. Each Topgolf Swing Suite location features a massive screen with a variety of multi-sport games, as well as HDTVs, comfortable lounge seating and food and beverage offerings.

But we aren’t just talking about golf. The Topgolf Swing Suites offer a variety of sports to choose from including Baseball Pitching, Hockey Shots, Quarterback Challenge, Soccer, even Zombie Dodgeball! From beginner to advanced to friendly competition to lay it all on the line, there is something for everyone.

Join us on our stop in Morriston, New Jersey at 1776 by David Burke to experience the Topgolf Swing Suite and bring your competitive edge along with you to experience the latest from Topgolf firsthand!

Retreats Resources Roadshow Bonus: walk away with a fabulous new headshot!

Did you know? Retreats Resources offers complimentary headshots at their Roadshows, thanks to photographer Kelli Price. Below are some tips to come prepared for to make the most out of this experience. Please note, while Kelli typically joins us at all Roadshows, she will unfortunately have to miss the stop in Philly this time due to a previous commitment. But she will be looking to make you smile in D.C., Tysons, and Morristown!

Here are a few tips to help get you started:

Know the “why.” Why do you need a headshot? Who is your audience? What do you want your photo to say?

Headshot or branding shots? Know the difference. Whereas the goal of a headshot session is one fabulous shot (maybe two), a branding session typically results in a collection of images in a variety of environments. For example, a chef might be shown for making magic in the kitchen, but also in jeans and T-shirt, strolling the farmers market seeking out his bounty. If you are a hotelier maybe that is a money shot within the hotel or resort you represent but also participating in an activity that is fitting of the lifestyle of your destination. If you are a meeting or event professional, maybe it’s an exciting venue or event set up with additional shots of the behind the scenes or day to day operations or how you spend your (limited) down time. If you’ve got your own business and/or website, a personal branding session may be the way to go.

Put your best face forward. Clothes, hair, makeup: They all matter. General rule of thumb? Wear what you feel and look great in. Avoid white, loud colors and busy patterns; you want the focus to be on your face. Ladies may want to bump up your makeup routine a bit, especially the eyes and lips, but a natural look is best.

Trust the process (and your photographer). While no one is 100% relaxed during a photo shoot, trusting your photographer sure helps. Try to have a little fun (you will with Kelli!). For women, lean forward, lean on something, angle your head for a better jaw line. For the men, lean forward, hand in pocket. Your photographer will help you find the right angle for you. Then exhale….and smile.

Kelli’s Five Ways to make your Headshot Standout from the Crowd

1. Color – the first thing that comes to mind is color! Color POPS!
2. Style – Look professional but with a little extra va-voom. Don’t be afraid to show off your personality
3. Confidence – You are leader, a Boss Babe, CEO, fresh college graduate….whatever you call yourself, make sure you show it with confidence
4. Genuine smiles – Unless you are a rockstar, I promise you most people are a little uncomfortable in front of the camera. Pick a photographer that you are comfortable with and drink a glass of wine during the session if you need to. They make pretty props anyways!
5. Sunglasses – See #2

TOMORROW: Mid-Atlantic Roadshow Washington D.C. – who wants to win a luxurious stay in Costa Rica?

We have been focusing on the venues of our upcoming roadshow but we realize there’s one more big reason you should consider attending our luxury destination showcases next week… door prizes!

When you arrive at our event, we’ll ask you to drop your business card into a basket from which we’ll draw winners for spectacular travel packages and other goodies from our generous hotel partners. Let’s have a look at another prize from our first stop, TOMORROW, in Washington D.C.

Hacienda AltaGracia, a Luxury Auberge Resort in Costa Rica

An escape for those seeking total well-being and unbridled adventure, balance at Hacienda AltaGracia is founded with the belief that total wellbeing comes from being able to move fast or slow. This serene 50-casita resort features 180 bird-song-filled acres of untamed tropical forest, coffee farm, equine stables, organic chef’s gardens and a wellbeing center by one of the world’s leading holistic wellness providers, THE WELL. Experience the escape of our soul-stirring wellness journeys, soulful cuisine, and adrenaline packed adventures through bespoke itineraries – personally curated to elevate your experience and leave you transformed.

We’re in! How about you? Don’t forget to bring your business cards to this one! See you tomorrow!

Mid-Atlantic Roadshow ALL locations – did we mention there are door prizes?

We have been focusing on the venues of our upcoming roadshow but we realize there’s one more big reason you should consider attending our luxury destination showcases next week… door prizes!

When you arrive at our event, we’ll ask you to drop your business card into a basket from which we’ll draw winners for spectacular travel packages and other goodies from our generous hotel partners. Let’s have a look at a prize that will be offered at ALL FOUR of our stops. That’s right! One lucky winner in Washington, D.C., Tysons, Morristown and Philadelphia will walk away with this fabulous beach package.

Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya

Escape into luxury at Secrets Akumal. Ideally located in the heart of the Riviera Maya along the famed white-sand Akumal beach, the resort fuses elegant and original design with elements of nature. With a Mayan name meaning “place of the turtle,” this AAA Four Diamond resort is renowned for its beautiful beach, calm Caribbean waters and green sea turtle population – making it an oasis for snorkeling. Secrets Akumal offers adults a romantic, picturesque hideaway with winding walkways, secluded pools and world-class spa.

What fabulous prize is up for grabs at the ALL FOUR shows:

A three night Stay in a Preferred Club Junior Suite Ocean View – for 2 adults

We’re in! How about you? Don’t forget to bring your business cards to this one!

Mid-Atlantic Roadshow – did we mention there are door prizes?

We have been focusing on the venues of our upcoming roadshow but we realize there’s one more big reason you should consider attending our luxury destination showcases next week… door prizes!

When you arrive at our event, we’ll ask you to drop your business card into a basket from which we’ll draw winners for spectacular travel packages and other goodies from our generous hotel partners. Let’s have a look at a prize from our first stop, Washington D.C.

Vermejo, A Ted Turner Reserve

With snowcapped alpine tundra, 19 fishable lakes, and over 550,000 stunning acres of picturesque lands, Vermejo is the jewel of northern New Mexico. Its diverse landscape is home to a wide variety of wildlife including elk, bison, black bears, and mountain lions. Whether riding horseback through open fields, exploring turn-of-the-century charcoal kilns, or fly fishing for Rio Grande cutthroat trout, Vermejo has something for everyone.

Vermejo is excited to be introduced to the world of small meeting and incentive travel. As a new hospitality brand launched in the spring of 2019 they are looking to expand their business channels.
What fabulous prize is up for grabs at the Washington, D.C. show:

A three night stay at Vermejo for up to 2 guests in a standard Headquarters accommodation. This package includes 1 room, 3-nights lodging, 2 days of unguided fishing and activities, 3 meals daily, and all nonalcoholic beverages. Up to two daily activities may be chosen from: horseback riding, shooting sports,3D archery and self-guided activities to include, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, geocaching and disc golf.

We’re in! How about you? Don’t forget to bring your business cards to this one!

Venue Spotlight: Stop #4 on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow – Steak 48, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Retreats Resources brings the Roadshow to you, but did you know we select the host venues with an experience in mind for every Meeting Planner and Event Specialist who attends. Let’s take a look at the location of our fourth and final stop on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow, Steak 48 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Our final stop takes us to an upscale steakhouse in the heart of downtown Philly. Opening amidst the pandemic in September 2020, the restaurant is a sprawling space, so even at limited capacity at opening they could still seat 100 guests for dinner.

And while known for its in-house butcher shop and mid-western sourced steaks and Wagyu beef brought in from Mishima Reserve it is also known for its raw bar with Alaskan king crab, Maine lobster and freshly shucked oysters, as well as a 3,000 bottle wine vault, appealing to many tastes when it comes to fine dining.

The warm, contemporary restaurant features a comfortable but sleek, sexy, and stylish atmosphere; from intimate private dining experiences to a spacious mezzanine and vibrant bar. With a 12,000 square foot ground floor, they are able to seat up to 450 people at full capacity.

Come see for yourself and join us in the City of Brotherly Love. We look forward to welcoming you to Steak 48 and the final stop on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow!

Venue Spotlight: Stop #3 on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow – 1776 by David Burke, Morristown, New Jersey

Retreats Resources brings the Roadshow to you, but did you know we select the host venues with an experience in mind for every Meeting Planner and Event Specialist who attends. Let’s take a look at our third stop on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow, 1776 by David Burke in Morristown, New Jersey.

With its strategic location between New York City and Philadelphia, Morristown played a significant role in the Revolutionary War, with George Washington setting up two winter encampments there. It now has the distinction of being home to Morristown National Historic Park to preserve these Revolutionary War sites. With a nod to this history came a restaurant named 1776 by David Burke. And although a nod to centuries old history the restaurant is known for its bold flavors of now, with a chic, modern atmosphere and award-winning chef, David Burke.

Along with this hip new restaurant, which just opened its doors in October 2021, the owners had an idea to keep people entertained while enjoying its festive atmosphere by adding Topgolf Swing Suites to the restaurant. And this space is where Retreats Resources will be bringing you for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Set in a modern, energetic environment the Topgolf Swing Suite space features 6 living room suites with golf simulator and special menu created by Chef David Burke to keep private parties a unique and active experience.

Come sip, snack and swing! We look forward to welcoming you to 1776 by David Burke and the Topgolf Swing Suite and the third stop on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow!

Venue Spotlight: Stop #2 on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow – Archer Hotel Tysons, Virginia

Retreats Resources brings the Roadshow to you, but did you know we select the host venues with an experience in mind for every Meeting Planner and Event Specialist who attends. Let’s take a look at a little background of our second stop on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow, the Archer Hotel Tysons.

Tysons, once an 1800s peach grove, is now an urban mecca just 9 miles northwest of Washington, D.C. The Archer Hotel Tysons only just opened their doors in September 2021.

Who is Archer? He is the persona of the hotel and your host, a “storyteller and adventurer, connoisseur and consummate host.” Each of his residences are a reflection of that in each location he will welcome you. Open floor plans will invite you in and allow you to feel the warmth and comfort of being their guest, while the finishing touches will leave you looking for more.

The House Art Collection is a unique group of art on all mediums, created by local and regional artists telling the stories of Virginia. On the seventh floor is a photo gallery of some of the most iconic musicians who called Virginia home, including Ella Fitzgerald, Jim Morrison, June Carter Cash and Patsy Cline.

Virginia is for Lovers and we think you will love this stop in Virginia we have planned for you. We look forward to welcoming you to the Archer Hotel Tysons and the second stop on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow!

Venue Spotlight: Stop #1 on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow – Riggs, Washington, D.C.

Retreats Resources brings the Roadshow to you, but did you know we select the host venues with an experience in mind for every Meeting Planner and Event Specialist who attends? Let’s start with a little history of our first stop on the upcoming Mid-Atlantic Roadshow, Riggs, Washington, D.C.

Riggs is an eye-catching, historic building in downtown Washington, D.C. Built in 1891 as the new home of Riggs Bank, it was the Bank of Presidents. Twenty-three U.S. Presidents banked at Riggs, including Abraham Lincoln prior to the completion of this building, Dwight D. Eisenhower and Richard Nixon, as well as American Red Cross founder, Clara Barton, and Suffragist, Susan B. Anthony.

The history of Riggs Bank is an important one and, prior to the completion of this building, includes such pivotal moments in our history as financing the first expedition to the North Pole, financing the expansion of the U.S. Capitol, as well as providing $7.2 million in gold towards the purchase of Alaska.

When refurbishing for use today the designer kept the integrity of the building in mind, inspired by the golden age of banking, keeping the high ceilings of the banking hall and Corinthian columns which are now the hotel lobby.

As you walk thru the doors of Riggs and begin to explore, try to imagine all the history Riggs Bank holds and let that add to your experience here.

We look forward to welcoming you to Riggs and the first stop on the Mid-Atlantic Roadshow!