3 Things Every Meeting Planner Must Know to Succeed

Meeting and event planning is all about details. When you get the details right, you get the event right. It’s that simple. Well, almost.

Sweat the small stuff. A lot.

By far the most important “detail” you need to consider is a venue’s reputation for service. When you choose a meeting venue with award-winning service, you can likely count on award-winning attention to detail. Once you’ve established the all-important service detail, make sure the venue has the “little things” covered. These include flexible check-in and check-out times that match your group’s schedule, as well as meeting rooms outfitted with toolkits containing spare pens, paperclips and other conveniences.

Communication is key.

You already know about booking vendors, negotiating contracts and creating budgets, but don’t forget one key detail: talking to people. Don’t be afraid to engage the A/V support people regarding equipment or capabilities that may be unique to your group’s needs, or the food and beverage manager regarding services when a meeting breaks before or after the scheduled meal. At a five-star service venue, chances are good they’re on it, but talk it out just in case. Also, make sure you know how equipment like copiers, printers and internal phone systems works. Ask where the best nearby print shop is located, too.

“Own” the project.

No question, as the central point of contact for the event, you are in the hot seat 24/7. Being extremely organized is important, but it isn’t enough. You need to understand and own every piece of the puzzle. You’re a diplomat, ring leader, negotiator, cheerleader, conflict resolver and detective rolled into one. Don’t be afraid to ask what other types of groups will be in-house during your event, the accuracy of publicized room specs, whether or not the venue’s meeting and sales staff are on the same page. In short, if you think it’ll impact your event, ask it. After all, in the end, you’ll own it.

Meetings of the minds + so much more

Perhaps the most important detail of all is selecting a venue that, in addition to being award-winning, has everything you need in one place – meeting space, lodging, dining, entertainment, fun and relaxation. With 125,000 sf of meeting space, over 700 rooms and suites, over 20 eateries and so much more, there’s nothing quite like it. Turning Stone Resort Casino delivers at every turn.

For more great ideas to make your meetings stand out, email our event specialists at GroupSalesSupport@turningstone.com or call 315.361.7910, and be sure to follow us @TURNINGSTONE!

Book a meeting by 3/1/20, consumed by 12/30/20, to receive up to a 12% discount.*