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New South Roadshow Nashville – who wants to win a stay at The Preserve Sporting Club?

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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 in Nashville.

The Preserve Sporting Club – Richmond, Rhode Island

Set on 3500 picturesque acres in Richmond, Rhode Island, The Preserve Sporting Club is like an adult summer camp with its outdoor-centric but fully contained luxury experience. With four seasons of activities, from summer activities like golf and tennis and kayaking to experiences that take you thru the shoulder seasons like fly fishing, horseback riding, and shooting clays thru the winter months like cross country skiing and the spa.

This sporting club offers a variety of room options from lodge rooms to luxury homes. With plenty of space to spread out bringing a group here is a no brainer whether it’s a retreat or a board meeting. There is something to keep everyone active and social.

Unique settings call for unique dining experiences like the Maker’s Mark Hobbit House, a Tolkien-inspired cabin serving up wild game paired with the famous bourbon, making it a perfect photo op.

This door prize includes a one night stay for two plus an activity of their choice. The hardest part of all? Deciding what you will do with all this space and fresh air.

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

Venue Spotlight: Stop #3 on the New South Roadshow – Roaring Social, Alpharetta, Georgia

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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 background on our third and final stop on the New South Roadshow: Roaring Social in suburban Atlanta.

We are seeing the meetings and events industry come ROARING back, and we are just loving that theme for this Roadshow. Roaring Social is a 20s themed speakeasy located in The Hamilton Hotel, which is part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, in the popular Atlanta suburb of Alpharetta.

Then:

With a whispered secret password (speaking easy so as not to be overheard), doors opened to a world where whiskey and moonshine flowed freely and prohibition was nothing but a dirty word. Roaring Social brought exuberance, entertainment and good times to the Roaring 1920s.

Now:

With a nod to its infamous past, revelers enter the respectable storefront of RoSo Clothiers. Those in the know will find the secret password, a password opening an unassuming door to unexpected delights.

As you sink into velvet sofas you will swear you hear the whispered conversations, laughter and strains of music of a bygone era…or maybe that’s just us celebrating the present day Roaring (20)20s.

We look forward to welcoming you to Alpharetta and Roaring Social and the third and final stop on the New South Roadshow!

Venue Spotlight: Stop #2 on the New South Roadshow – Dread River Distillery, Birmingham, Alabama

Posted on | by Joe Mo | Leave a Comment on Venue Spotlight: Stop #2 on the New South Roadshow – Dread River Distillery, Birmingham, Alabama

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 background on our second stop on the New South Roadshow: Dread River Distillery in Birmingham.

Keeping with the theme of the events industry coming ROARING back in the (20)20s…. we are hitting up a distillery on our next stop. Dread River spirits are created for those inspired by the journey, the perfect fit for the travel and events industry. They are currently distilling small batches of Bourbon, Whiskey, Rye, Vodka, Gin, Rum and Blue Agave, which makes this the perfect next stop on our Prohibition themed tour.

Come, take a journey down the mystic Dread River…

The design concept for Dread River Distilling Company reflects the company’s brand, which references an ancient tale of an underground mystic river, flowing beneath the streets of Birmingham, large enough for steam vessels to traverse, and from which Dread River sources its main ingredient, water.
The manufacturing space design engages the company branding while providing an efficient production layout for the distillery and embracing natural light and ventilation.

The tasting room design reflects the depth and darkness of this mystic river. The unique vibe of each colorful lounge room reflects the unforeseen nature of a journey down this mystic river, so as guests move throughout the bar, the experience is ever-changing, similar to one’s journey down “Dread River”.

And as event professionals….we know a thing or two about ever-changing….

We look forward to welcoming you to Birmingham and Dread River Distillery and the second stop on the New South Roadshow!

Venue Spotlight: Stop #1 on the New South Roadshow – Virgin Hotels, Nashville

Posted on | by Joe Mo | Leave a Comment on Venue Spotlight: Stop #1 on the New South Roadshow – Virgin Hotels, Nashville

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 background on our first stop on the New South Roadshow: Virgin Hotels, Nashville.

Did you say…Virgin Hotels? Yes, as in that same iconic red logo lifestyle brand you see in the air on Virgin Atlantic, the same brand you see out at sea on Virgin Voyages, with the same hip vibe we know and love about the Virgin brand. As part of the Curio by Hilton collection Virgin Hotels will appeal to many clients being able to offer guest membership rewards and service standard consistencies they count on in business travel…while also feeling like a rock star, or in the case of Nashville, a country star, staying just off of Music Row. Opening amid a Pandemic in 2020, with hotels currently located in Dallas, Chicago, Las Vegas, Nashville and New Orleans (and coming soon to New York, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Miami) they are now available in some of our favorite cities for business (and fun!).

And did you know…Virgin Hotels are pet friendly? Virgin is a big fan of the fuzz. Pets stay free, with no breed or size restrictions. (If you have ever traveled with your dog you know this is unheard of!)

The hotel of course has cool features like the Shag Room, a private space off the lobby, that features a (shag) fiber sculpture in the ceiling.

The Funny Library Coffee Shop is part coffee shop, part lounge, part remote work space, part favorite place to hang.

The well appointed rooms are referred to as “Chambers” at Virgin. The virtual assistant’s name is Lucy, and she can do anything from order you room service or lower the temperature in your room.

The space where we will meet you on our Roadshow? Well, that’s top secret. You will have to join us to find out and sip away the end of this 21st century Prohibition….as we see the events industry come ROARING back!

We look forward to welcoming you to the Virgin Hotels and Music City and the first stop on the New South Roadshow!

Mid-Atlantic Roadshow Wrap Up

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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

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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!

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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?

Posted on | by Joe Mo | 2 Comments on 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?

Posted on | by Joe Mo | Leave a Comment on 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?

Posted on | by Joe Mo | Leave a Comment on 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!