New South Roadshow Stop #4 – 21c Museum Hotel, Louisville

Our final stop on our 2023 New South Roadshow brings us to the 21c Museum Hotel in Louisville. Its our first time ever bringing our signature showcase to Derby City and we wanted to go big at this funky, artsy, museum hotel. Its definitely a vibe.

Nestled in downtown Louisville on historic West Main Street, along Museum Row, 21c Museum Hotel Louisville is a multi-venue contemporary art museum, an award-winning 91-room boutique hotel, and home to acclaimed Proof on Main restaurant. The Red Penguin is one constant at 21c Louisville among the ever changing art exhibit at the hotel and museum.

“The public really chose the penguins,” says Wilson. “They were part of our opening exhibition in Louisville and people couldn’t help but interact with them. They would move them around, take photos with them, take them to dinner and to their rooms. They have really become an icon, and emblematic of our mission to make thought-provoking contemporary art more accessible to the public.”

Over a decade and many hotels later, each 21c has its own flock of Penguins — each in a color that embodies the singular identity of their city. The Penguins greet visitors throughout the hotel – in the lobby, elevators, restaurant, guest rooms, and often, where you least expect them.

Come see the Red Penguins who started it all for yourself and join us on our first ever stop in Louisville on Thursday, March 23 from 10 am – 12 pm for our Luxury Destination Showcase in the gallery followed by a Luncheon at Proof on Main at 21c Hotel. We look forward to welcoming you to Louisville and the final stop on the 2023 New South Roadshow!

The 21C Museum Hotel is indeed that, an art museum, and as such, contains some art which might not be to everyone’s taste. If you think this may be an issue for you, please check their latest exhibit by clicking here.

Visit our website at www.retreatsresources for registration details!

New South Roadshow Stop #3 – Conrad Nashville

Our third stop on our 2023 New South Roadshow brings us to the Conrad Nashville. Opened in June 2022, the hotel represents everything that Nashville does best — layering in luxury hospitality with its 234 guest rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Conrad Nashville is decorated with art works of local artists, another nod to a city that has long been recognized for being a home to those wishing to express themselves.

On lobby level Blue Aster — named after the Tennessee wildflower, known for its unique star shape symbolizing love, wisdom and charm — serves seafood-centric American cuisine with Southern flavors.

On the hotel’s third floor, Thistle & Rye is hip a whiskey bar featuring shareable, globally-inspired small plates while you sip cocktails on the patio overlooking downtown Nashville.

Come see for yourself and join us in Nashville on Wednesday, March 22nd from 10 am – 12 pm for our Luxury Destination Showcase in the ballroom followed by a Luncheon at Thistle and Rye at the Conrad. We look forward to welcoming you to Nashville and the third stop on the 2023 New South Roadshow!

Visit our website at www.retreatsresources for registration details!

New South Roadshow Stop #2 – Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, Birmingham

Our second stop on our 2023 New South Roadshow brings us to the Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa in Birmingham.

Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa
Includes dining and food, rooms, architecture, pool and bagpipes.

Set just outside the city, deep in the heart of the “Hidden Gem of the South,” this Birmingham hotel provides a uniquely inspired setting surrounded by the natural beauty and lush landscape of a Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail championship golf course.

With 259 guest rooms, 3 restaurants, The Spa at Ross Bridge, 18 event rooms, and over 25,000 square feet of meeting space, this Marriott property appeals to both the leisure traveler and the business traveler for obvious reasons. Did we mention the location is absolutely breathtaking?

Come see for yourself and join us in Birmingham on Tuesday, March 21st from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm for our Luxury Destination Showcase in the ballroom followed by a reception on the terrace from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, with live music, yummy food and open bar, firepits…and massage chairs! We look forward to welcoming you to Birmingham and the second stop on the 2023 New South Roadshow!

Visit our website at www.retreatsresources for registration details!

New South Roadshow Stop #1 – The Thompson Buckhead, Atlanta

Our first stop on our 2023 New South Roadshow brings us to The Thompson Buckhead. Opening in December 2021, The Thompson Buckhead features 201 guest rooms, restaurant Dirty Rascal and members only Tesserae Rooftop Bar and Lounge, which guests will have access to when renting a suite.

Inspired by old-school red sauce restaurants in New York and classic Italian joints found just off the strip in Las Vegas, Dirty Rascal brings the swanky, mid-century vibes in the dining room and in the food they serve.

The definition of Tesserae reads, a composition of individual parts that forms a structure more beautiful in its combined power. Based on the idea of bringing people together from all backgrounds for events, entertainment and good times, Tesserae has created a club meant to be “exclusively inclusive”. Blurring the lines between work, rest and play the club offers a warm, elevated environment to foster a shared space for its members. And club rules…lap tops get turned off at 4 pm. Like any private club, Tesserae comes with its own unique rules of engagement. Curious? You can read more on those club rules here.

Come see for yourself and join us in Buckhead in Atlanta on Monday, March 20th from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm for our Luxury Destination Showcase in the Ballroom followed by a reception from 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm on the Members Only Tesserae Rooftop Bar and Lounge. We look forward to welcoming you to Buckhead and the first stop on the 2023 New South Roadshow!

Visit our website at www.retreatsresources for registration details!

Retreats Resources Manhattan Showcase Bonus: walk away with a new headshot!

We are pleased to be offering complimentary headshots at our Manhattan Showcase this Friday, February, 17th, at the Ritz-Carlton, New York, NoMad, thanks to photographer Kelli Price.

Here are a few tips to help you come prepared to exude fabulous:

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

If you are not registered already, what are you waiting for? To register (its free for event professionals!) go to our website at www.retreatsresources.com

 

Mid-Atlantic Roadshow Stop #3 – Pendry Washington, DC – The Wharf

Our final stop on our 2023 Mid-Atlantic Roadshow brings us to Pendry Washington, DC – The Wharf. Opening in October 2022, Pendry DC is Washington’s latest, greatest, hottest hotel along the trendy Wharf waterfront district. Pendry features 131 beautifully appointed guest rooms, including 38 suites with a warm residential-inspired feel to them in this sleek glass-wrapped exterior.

D.C. veteran Executive Chef Barry Koslow helms all three restaurants and bars at Pendry, with a wide range of culinary focus taking you on a nomadic adventure for your taste buds. The hotel’s classic lobby bar is the ultra-chic Bar Pendry. Rich velvet upholstery in dark blues, brushed bronze details, and vintage décor.

On the second floor is Flora Flora, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner inspired by the cuisines of Mexico and Peru. Featuring small plates prepared with local ingredients and served in a bright, light-filled dining room with plenty of greenery, it also offers stunning river vistas.

And lastly, Moonraker, Pendry’s sophisticated rooftop restaurant and bar is anchored by a spectacular circular bar with a striking light installation above it and jaw-dropping waterfront views. The Japanese-inspired menu features light bites, sushi rolls, and a curated selection of whisky and cocktails.

Come see for yourself and join us in Washington, DC on Thursday, February 23rd from 10 am – 2 pm for our Luxury Destination Showcase and Luncheon, as well as corporate gifting from Maui Jim and Seiko. We look forward to welcoming you to Pendry Washington and the final stop on the 2023 Mid-Atlantic Roadshow!

Mid-Atlantic Roadshow Stop #2 – Steak 48, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

For our second stop we are heading back to Steak 48 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on the 2023 Mid-Atlantic Roadshow. It was such a hit last year are ready to go back again!

An upscale steakhouse in the heart of downtown Philly Steak 48 is a sprawling space with warm, contemporary features with 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.

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.

Come see for yourself and join us in the City of Brotherly Love on Wednesday, February 22nd from 10 am – 2 pm for our Luxury Destination Showcase and Luncheon, as well as corporate gifting from Maui Jim and Seiko. We look forward to welcoming you to Steak 48 and the second stop on the 2023 Mid-Atlantic Roadshow.

Mid-Atlantic Roadshow Stop #1 – River House at Odette’s, New Hope, Pennsylvania

We are kicking off our 2023 Mid-Atlantic Roadshow in New Hope, Pennsylvania this year at River House at Odette’s.

New Hope is a scenic small town located along the Delaware River. With a quaint Main Street home to eclectic shopping, New Hope features riverside restaurants and cultural attractions a little over an hour’s drive from both New York City and Philadelphia!

River House at Odette’s is a boutique, luxury hotel that includes 36 guest rooms and 12 suites, featuring spa-inspired baths, curated furnishings and river and mountain views. The hotel also features a ballroom with a 200-person capacity overlooking the Delaware River, as well as additional meeting rooms.

Dining options include three establishments, including its main namesake restaurant, Odette’s Restaurant & Lounge, the Piano Lounge cocktail parlor, and members-only ROOF, inspired by the spirited 1970s.

Come see for yourself and join us in New Hope on Tuesday, February 21st from 10 am – 2 pm for our Luxury Destination Showcase and Luncheon, as well as corporate gifting from Maui Jim and Seiko. We look forward to welcoming you to River House and the first stop on the 2023 Mid-Atlantic Roadshow!

 

Calling all Global Nomads…to New York City!

We are pleased to bring you our International Buyers Manhattan Showcase and Luncheon on February 17th at the brand new Ritz-Carlton, New York, NoMad. Our event will precede the SITE Global Conference in New York, February 17-20, so if you plan on attending SITE, start your week in an amazing way by kicking off your trip with us!

Always chosen with care and purpose, our venue, the Ritz-Carlton, NoMad, a 50-story, 250 room, newly built hotel is set in the electrifying neighborhood north of Madison Square Park. Opening in 2022, this is New York’s second Ritz-Carlton coming 20 years after its sister property, the Ritz-Carlton, New York, Central Park opened, making it the long awaited, but definitely not an oops!, younger sibling. No, this youngster was definitely a well-planned addition to the family.

And if you know us you know how we love our food! Not to be outdone by all the other neighboring culinary offerings, the Ritz-Carlton, NoMad will have not one but two restaurants by world famous Chef José Andrés, including two of his signature restaurants, Zaytinya and The Bazaar, raising the already high bar for eateries in the NoMad neighborhood.

On the 50th floor you will find Nubeluz, a rooftop cocktail bar with a 20s speakeasy feel by award-winning Chef José Andrés with a birds eye view of Time’s Square.

Other than the vintage feel of the rooftop bar, the hotel has modern décor and detailed touches bringing a new vibe to the Ritz-Carlton family for the loyalists looking for a fresh feel. From the modern furniture and plant life greeting you in the lobby area to the clean lines of the sleeping rooms, the Ritz-Carlton, NoMad awaits you, not to escape the sights and sounds of the city, but to keep your energy going in the hustle and bustle of the city, embracing what New York does best…buzz with excitement.

We hope you can join us on February 17th from 10 am – 2 pm, for what promises to be one of our signature showcases of destination partners for the International MICE Buyer, at the Ritz-Carlton, New York, NoMad!

Connoisseurs Connections Conference destination spotlight: The Palm Beaches

We are looking forward to our invitation-only Connoisseurs Connections Conference next week in Florida and want to put a spotlight on our host destination, The Palm Beaches.

Called America’s First Resort Destination™, a place with fewer crowds, warmer water, cleaner beaches. It is a destination that defines the hospitality industry. You will find all of that in The Palm Beaches.

The Palm Beaches is made up of 39 cities, towns and villages, and includes well-known West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Jupiter, and Delray Beach, to name just a few. With 47 miles of beaches you will find plenty of waterfront properties to choose from for your meeting or incentive trip, including the sprawling resorts, The Breakers Palm Beach, Eau Palm Beach and our host property, The Boca Raton.

The area is bountiful with things to do. Considered the Golf Capital of Florida, the area boasts of more than 160 golf courses. From golf to beaches to airboat rides to manatee viewing, the area has you covered on the ultimate Florida experience.

We look forward to sharing more of our firsthand experiences, surprises and updates from The Palm Beaches with you as our conference rolls on…stay tuned next week to follow along!