tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40906172211885667922024-03-19T00:13:59.964-04:00Meeting Planner Puzzle PiecesMeeting Planning Tips, Save timeLinda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-1090457533307521772012-04-04T16:20:00.000-04:002012-04-04T16:20:49.738-04:00Virtual Trade Shows<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0000cc; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #006600;"><strong>There are LOTS of ways we can work together to make each of our businesses stronger and I am exploring several options besides our networking events. You may be aware that I am working on virtual meetings and events for some of my clients and it is an effective way of getting rich content out to potential members, buyers or fans. I have also done virtual trade shows and the formats were very costly and very time specific. This one is FREE to you and is “open 24/7”. <o:p></o:p></strong></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #006600; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong>I am working with Louis Godin on the Virtual Trade Shows throughout Florida. He has them across the globe and I may dive into other territories in the future but for now, I am focused on personal relationships and helping the BEST of the BEST to get their marketing message on line with a group of professionals where we are endorsing one another. We are not looking for large companies with huge marketing budgets. I want to attract people who provide unique, personal service and hope that you will submit your application so we can all grow together! There is no cost so this is strictly a combined effort of small, unique services, supplies and venues to look big and attract buyers to the destination. As an example, Busch Gardens can be found in lots of places but the Clearwater Aquarium “Home of Winter from the Disney movie” is clearly small and unique. I will seek B&Bs, country clubs or special treasure spots for wedding venues as opposed to large, flagged hotels.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #006600; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong>On each of the Registration forms (virtual Booth Space and Presenter Space) it will ask "How did you hear about this free promotion" just put my name as the referral. There will be several “applicants” who will be denied because they are not endorsed or their web presence does not clearly define their expertise. Let me know if you need assistance in building your “booth”. The more content we get into the show, the more searchable we ALL become. Also, if there is a vendor that you believe would benefit from participating in this that I may not know personally, please forward their name and email to me so I can contact them directly.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #006600; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong>Pick the category that best describes your market Weddings, Meetings, Leisure travel and let’s draw some business to one another!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #006600;">These portals will simplify registration … find and click on the big red box at the top that says Exhibitor Booth Registration … REMEMBER, when asked "How did you hear about this free promotion" just put my name as the referral. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span><strong>Meetings & Conventions <span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">…</span></strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;">Exhibitors include: Full and Limited Service Hotels, Meeting Facilities, Caterers, Travel, Tourism, Audio Visual, Transportation, Event Decoration & Design, Entertainment, Meeting Planners, Meeting Planning, Florists & Flowers, Corporate Gifts and MUCH more.</span></span><strong> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></strong></span><span style="color: #0000cc;"><a href="http://www.webeventplanner.com/meeting_conference_planning_trade_show.html"><span style="color: #0000cc; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong>http://www.webeventplanner.com/meeting_conference_planning_trade_show.html</strong></span></a></span><span style="color: #006600;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"><strong> </strong></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span><strong>Weddings & Special Events</strong> <span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">… Exhibitors include: Full and Limited Service Hotels, Catering Facilities, Event Facilities, Caterers, Honeymoon Destinations, Bakery & Cakes, Event Decoration & Design, Entertainment, Wedding Planners, Florists & Flowers, Formal Wear & Gowns and much more.</span> <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"><strong> </strong></span><a href="http://www.webeventplanner.com/wedding_event_planning_trade_show.html"><span style="color: #0000cc;"><strong>http://www.webeventplanner.com/wedding_event_planning_trade_show.html</strong></span></a><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="color: blue;"><em><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; font-style: normal; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="color: blue;">Travel & Tourism Industry</span></span></em><em><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">…</span></span></em></span><span><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"> Exhibitors include: Hotels, Resorts, Attractions, Transportation, Flights, Agents Resources, Cruises, Publications and MUCH more. </span><a href="http://www.webeventplanner.com/travel_tourism_trade_show.html"><span style="color: #0000cc;">http://www.webeventplanner.com/travel_tourism_trade_show.html</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></strong></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #006600; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Virtual Exhibitor booth, show event space and sponsorship is <u>FREE</u> and subject to approval and placement by host/organizer.</span><span style="color: #006600; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><span><strong>Browse exhibitors and attend show events on your schedule in the comfort of your home or office 24/7. Each virtual trade show showcases exhibitor booths which includes Introduction and links to FaceBook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Web Sites, Blogs, PR, Testimonials, *Videos, *Presentations, *Seminars (*ie. Show Events) and offers contact by EMail, Live Chat, Phone, Directions and more. <u>GET TO KNOW EACH LOCAL EXHIBITOR VIRTUALLY</u>.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span><div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span><div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #006600; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong>A great article from MPI just popped into my screen … so appropriate! </strong></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0000cc; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong>WORK TOGETHER OR FAIL ALONE</strong> </span></i><span><span style="color: black;">Keynote Jonah Lehrer:</span> The days of individual problem solvers are over. It's a new time: collaboration and connections are tantamount to your survival. <a href="http://echo4.bluehornet.com/ct/15504279:18469413061:m:1:1468651466:A8DED253F7D901F7A183B786866F68E4:r" target="_blank"><span style="color: #006600; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><strong>>></strong></span></a></span><span style="color: #006600; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span> </div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-18030160294736648042012-03-27T11:13:00.000-04:002012-03-27T11:13:31.146-04:00Tips & Tricks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Sometimes you just want a helpful tip that has nothing to do with your job so here you go:<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Baking Soda Uses</h2><div style="text-align: left;"> <span style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Baking soda is a chemical compound that appears as a fine powder. It releases bubbles of carbon dioxide when it interacts with an acid and a liquid. It's most commonly used in baking</span><span style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">, where it acts as a leavening agent. </span><span style="color: #7d7d7d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div class="jsn-leading"><div class="jsn-article"><div style="margin-left: 0px;">1. Use it as an antacid.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">2. Use it as underarm deodorant by applying it with a powder puff.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">3. Mix half a teaspoon with peroxide paste and use it as toothpaste.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">4. Use it as a face and body scrub.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">5. Add a cup to bathwater to soften your skin.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">6. Relieve skin itch from insect bites and pain from sunburn.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">7. Remove strong odors from your hands by rubbing them with baking soda and water.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">8. Put two tablespoons in your baby’s bathwater to help relieve diaper rash.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">9. Apply it on rashes, insect bites, and poison ivy irritations.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">10. Take a baking soda bath to relieve skin irritations.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">11. Heartburn? Take a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with one-half glass of water.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">12. Freshen your mouth by gargling half a teaspoon of baking soda mixed water.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">13. Relieve canker sore pain by using it as mouthwash.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">14. Use it to relieve bee stings.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">15. Use it to relieve windburns.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">16. Apply it on jellyfish sting to draw out the venom.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">17. Unblock stuffy nose by adding a teaspoon of baking soda to your vaporizer.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;"><strong>In the Home</strong></div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">18. Keep cut flowers fresh longer by adding a teaspoon to the water in the vase.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">19. Put out small fires on rugs, upholstery, clothing, and wood.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">20. Put an open container of baking soda in the fridge to absorb the odors.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">21. Sprinkle it on your ashtrays to reduce bad odor and prevent smoldering.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">22. Sprinkle it on your slippers, boots, shoes, and socks to eliminate foul odor.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">23. Turn baking soda into modeling clay by combining it with one and 1/4 cups of water and one cup of cornstarch.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">24. After feeding your baby, wipe his shirt with a moist cloth sprinkled with baking soda to remove the odor.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">25. Wipe your windshield with it to repel rain.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">26. Improve the smell of dishrags by soaking them in baking soda and water.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">27. Suck it in with your vacuum cleaner to remove the odor.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">28. Freshen the air by mixing baking soda with your favorite perfumed bath salts. Put the mixture in small sachet bags.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">29. Restore stiff brushes by boiling them in a solution of 1/2 gallon of water, 1/4 cup of vinegar, and a cup of baking soda.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">30. Put it under sinks and along basement windows to repel cockroaches and ants.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">31. Scatter baking soda around flowerbeds to prevent rabbits from eating your veggies.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">32. Sweeten your tomatoes by sprinkling baking soda on the soil around your tomato plants.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">33. Sprinkle it onto your cat or bunny’s litter box to absorb the bad odor.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">34. Sprinkle it on your pet’s comb or brush to deodorize their fur and skin.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;"><strong>In Cooking</strong></div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">35. Use it as a substitute for baking powder by mixing with it with cream of tartar or vinegar.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">36. Wash fruits and vegetables with it.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">37. When boiling a chicken, add a teaspoon of baking soda to the water. Feathers will come off easier, and the flesh will be clean and white.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">38. Soak dried beans to a baking soda solution to make them more digestible.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">39. Remove the distinctive taste of wild game by soaking it in a baking soda solution.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">40. Make a sports drink by mixing it with boiled water, salt, and Kool-Aid.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">41. Remove the fishy smell from your fillets by soaking the raw fish in a baking soda solution for an hour inside the fridge.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">42. Make fluffier omelets by adding half a teaspoon of baking soda for every three eggs used.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">43. Reduce the acid content of your tomato-based recipes by sprinkling them with a pinch of baking soda.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;"><strong>Cleaning Purposes</strong></div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">44. Add a cup to the toilet, leave it for an hour, and then flush. It will clean the toilet and absorb the odor.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">45. Use it to scrub sinks, showers, plastic and porcelain tubs</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">46. Spray it on walls, mirrors, and countertops.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">47. Add a spoonful to your dishwasher to make scrubbing dishes easier.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">48. Remove grease from pots and pans.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">49. Dry clean carpets and upholstered furniture by sprinkling baking soda over the fabric and gently brushing it. Leave it for an hour or overnight, then vacuum.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">50. Boost your laundry detergent’s cleaning power by sprinkling a handful on dirty clothes.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">51. Combine it with water to make a paste for polishing stainless steel and chrome.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">52. Remove scratches and crayon marks from vinyl floors and walls.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">53. Clean your shoes with it.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">54. Clean garbage cans with it.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">55. Use it to wash diapers.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">56. Clean the fridge with it.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">57. Soak brushes and combs in a baking soda solution.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">58. Mix it with water to wash food and drink containers.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">59. Put three tablespoons of baking soda to a quart of warm water, then use the mixture to wash marble-topped furniture.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">60. Absorb it with a damp sponge, then clean Formica countertops with the sponge.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">61. Use it to get rid of stale odors from cooling containers and thermos bottles.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">62. Run your coffee maker with a baking soda solution, then rinse.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">63. Combine with hot water to clean baby bottles.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">64. Sprinkle it on BBQ grills, then rinse it off.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">65. Scatter it on your greasy garage floor, scrub the floor, and rinse.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">66. Remove burned-on food from a pan by soaking it in a baking soda solution for 10 minutes before washing.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">67. Clean your ashtrays with a baking soda solution.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">68. Keep your drains clean by putting four tablespoons of baking soda in them each week. Flush it down with hot water.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">69. Clean your shower curtains by soaking them in baking soda and water.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">70. Put it on a small brush to rub canvas handbags clean.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">71. Use it to remove melted plastic bread wrapper from a toaster. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp rag, then use the rag to clean the toaster.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">72. Use it to clean your retainers and dentures.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">73. Make a thick paste of baking soda and water, and used it to scrub enameled cast iron and stainless steel.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">74. Mix four tablespoons of baking soda with a quart of warm water, and use it to clean the inside part of an oven.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">75. Use it to unclog gas stoves.</div><div style="margin-left: 0px;">The most amazing thing about baking soda is that it’s very cheap. You can do all these things for a very small cost. Baking soda is truly a miracle product, whether it’s used for baking or not.</div></div></div></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-48643923935770632042012-03-19T13:00:00.001-04:002012-03-19T13:00:11.851-04:00Trade Show Tips<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are several other considerations in putting together a tradeshow and know that if you don't do it right the first time, it is doubtful you will be asked to do it again. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You will need to hire a decorator if you plan to do booths with pipe & drape ... They can also supply registration kiosks, internet kiosks, signage for the entry and individual exhibit booths, schematics for maps that you may have on a foam board sign or a printed program guide to locate a particular vendor. Table top exhibits may be done through the venue but you still have lots of details to prepare. </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You need someone to send out exhibitor packets that detail set up and tear down times, exhibitor entrances and registration, optional goods and services available along with price lists, shipping, receiving, and storage policies and procedures, exhibitor contracts and a fee collection process. Typically a trade show booth comes with a 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs and a waste basket. If you are at a hotel, carpet is generally not a concern but convention centers with tile or concrete floors will require carpet at least in the aisles to prevent slips and falls … but you still need event insurance. Ceiling heights, dock space and elevator load factors may all be areas of concern that need to go on your checklist. Parking for vendors and participants is another detail that needs to be reviewed as there may be the need for box trucks near the loading docks and there needs to be ample parking for drive in participants. You may need additional staff to assist in this area. Trash disposal is another consideration that needs to be discussed as you can incur large fees for dumpsters.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Will there be a need for internet or electrical? </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If so, what is the fee and who is providing the service? </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Does this require special placement? </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Is there a lead retrieval mechanism available? </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">How many exhibitor badges are included with each booth / display? </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Are you working with any union contractors?</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Are any special licenses or insurance required?</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Who is responsible for negotiating, reviewing and signing the contract with the venue?</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Can an exhibitor supply food and beverage?</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Vendors placement is critical </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Do not have competitors across the aisle or next to one another.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Booth sizes may vary and you need to create proper flow</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Many will have requests to be closest to the entry or near a food/beverage or entertainment area.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Will there be announcements and drawings for prizes?</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">How will you market the event and sell tickets?</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Trade shows can be great revenue generators for associations and special interest groups. Be sure to budget properly for all necessary staff, supplies and equipment, a good communication system, security and insurance. Be prepared for lots of vendor questions that may be in the exhibitor packet that they do not abide by and know that the cost of the tradeshow is much more than the venue and tables. Engage an experienced meeting planner to assist in all the coordination.</span></div></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-55463227884060414382012-01-20T14:33:00.000-05:002012-01-20T14:33:01.684-05:00Virtual and Hybrid Meetings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">It is always exciting to be interviewed for a major industry publication. I encourage everyone to put this and public speaking on the top of their list of goals for the year if you are looking to grow your business. I had to share the opportunity with my client since I could not have enjoyed this experience without him AND his industry will play a key role in the success of all the styles of live streaming production for meetings. I will let you read the story in the fashion that the seasoned journalist writes. Barbara Palmer was a delight in her interviewing skill and the passion and professionalism she brought to each conversation. Enjoy the treat! <br />
<a href="http://www.pcma.org/Convene/A-More-Perfect-Union.htm">http://www.pcma.org/Convene/A-More-Perfect-Union.htm</a></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-77040566776390258182011-12-07T11:58:00.000-05:002011-12-07T11:58:34.229-05:00Virtual Meetings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">The topic of Virtual Meetings is sizzling! Meeting professionals play a vital role in orchestrating the details. You will be hearing more about this component and how it is changing the way we meet.<div> </div><div>Even the <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groupItem?view=&gid=121183&type=member&item=82439246&commentID=60665471&report%2Esuccess=8ULbKyXO6NDvmoK7o030UNOYGZKrvdhBhypZ_w8EpQrrQI-BBjkmxwkEOwBjLE28YyDIxcyEO7_TA_giuRN#" id="_GPLITA_0" in_rurl="http://www.textsrv.com/click?v=VVM6MTAzNzQ6MjM5Omhvc3BpdGFsaXR5IHNhbGVzIGFuZCBtYXJrZXRpbmc6OWNlMjZkOWYyYjkwNzJjOGZkMGE1N2U2NDU0YzUxYTc6ei0xMDMyLTEwMzY4Ond3dy5saW5rZWRpbi5jb20%3D" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="Powered by Text-Enhance">Hospitality Sales and Marketing</a> Association has experienced impressive results by adding a virtual component to their first hybrid event.</div><div>Industry: Association</div><div>Location: McLean, VA</div><div>September 2011Results - </div><div>Digital Extension:</div><div>• 279 Registrants</div><div>• 228 Attendees</div><div>• 82% Attendance Rate</div><div>• 818 Unique Views of Live Session Content</div><div>• 97% enjoyed participating in HSMAI’s MEET On first digital extension</div><div>• 59% of digiatl attendees are more inclined to attend HSMAI’s MEET in person the next year</div><div> </div><div>Here are several other articles you may find interesting. A2Z Meetings & Events would enjoy putting all the details together when you decide to incorporate this technology. </div><div> </div><div><a href="https://www.eplyevents.com/Event.aspx?l=1&c=2&evt=80a509b0-57ca-41e1-8cd0-7112696e96fe#.Tt5b4ob5RXc.blogger">Hybrid Meeting Strategies and The Conference Center</a></div><div><a href="http://i-meet.com/public/blog/Blog_Kevin_Iwamoto_1851.aspx">http://i-meet.com/public/blog/Blog_Kevin_Iwamoto_1851.aspx</a></div></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-74690546107286044402011-09-02T20:04:00.000-04:002011-09-02T20:04:37.703-04:00Name That Hotel ~ Venue 7 ~ Results September 7<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" closure_uid_wfee8b="137" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0FRGiqlqkF5YCyzcVvBiRg3YbAaiSp-mWfXxo47DrCeQ1c2uNOMj-ggMdSb67fm6ocRzgeLp2oE8ZzCAM20F7HS3M-3CIQmlShlRpZ0vf0frjVOviajE76NF02YU1Cdt7IGwcj5wzZE/s1600/7+Lobby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0FRGiqlqkF5YCyzcVvBiRg3YbAaiSp-mWfXxo47DrCeQ1c2uNOMj-ggMdSb67fm6ocRzgeLp2oE8ZzCAM20F7HS3M-3CIQmlShlRpZ0vf0frjVOviajE76NF02YU1Cdt7IGwcj5wzZE/s320/7+Lobby.jpg" width="320" xaa="true" /></a></div><div closure_uid_wfee8b="171"><strong>This exquisite venue is elegant and very memorable. </strong></div></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-52888592533832142962011-09-02T19:14:00.000-04:002011-09-02T19:14:46.658-04:00Venue 6 ~ The Longboat Key Club and Resort<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div closure_uid_tnz3pq="106">Recognized among the top 1% of group meeting venues in the U.S. by Successful Meetings Magazine, our Fourth consecutive Pinnacle Award, The Longboat Key Club and Resort offers flexible meeting space for executive retreats and small groups ranging in size from 10 ~ 150 attendees. What makes our AAA Four Diamond Florida Resort the perfect place? Some say it’s because Golf Digest names us one of the ”Best Places to Play” or because the USTA gave us and “Outstanding Facilities Award” for our new Tennis Gardens. Others insist it’s our luxurious 9000 square foot Island House Spa, our six unique restaurants and our exclusive private white sand beach. All 218 suites are newly renovated with private balconies offering spectacular views of the beach, bay and golf course. So when planning a meeting, you just need to remember ~ it’s all here. And it’s all yours.</div></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-59784129972786327422011-08-18T18:37:00.000-04:002011-08-18T18:37:44.334-04:00Name That Hotel ~ Venue 6 ~ Results August 19<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div closure_uid_22nwuq="126">Perhaps you are seeing a pattern in many of these wonderful hotels. Superb accommodations, unique meeting space and and stunning location ... I was here last week! Can you Name that Hotel ~ Venue 6?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-UYa8FlEKaFNgw267YKNRwWJXLMKVDLGepjt3K-3rL0mLGKUCB2WM1pxFWu-qExP4m8EgZzgb-xob4pOZ9flWTjvyyi4kMaTjbyKat9yHRyvDcVFBhUjjISUBrtKljMCJZo0gPEMcFtk/s1600/6Balcony+Lagoon+View+LBK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-UYa8FlEKaFNgw267YKNRwWJXLMKVDLGepjt3K-3rL0mLGKUCB2WM1pxFWu-qExP4m8EgZzgb-xob4pOZ9flWTjvyyi4kMaTjbyKat9yHRyvDcVFBhUjjISUBrtKljMCJZo0gPEMcFtk/s320/6Balcony+Lagoon+View+LBK.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div closure_uid_22nwuq="126"><br />
</div></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-74743665446861028602011-08-18T18:32:00.000-04:002011-08-18T18:32:46.352-04:00Don CeSar on St. Pete Beach, FL<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div closure_uid_3oezo7="132"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolSnk7Unv4v0E5W6MuKvyxCDVaJCD96fISxVAc13djnoRuMhtyxq4mYCrfDFHUi8bGTxn-UOXjQHvN4Tq9iwAijLa5QWc4jntigPhBQ07CCmE88NZ8pQ_Sg9MvuiqWvs9rbASkTE7hOo/s1600/DCspb-pter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_vnz9ij="137" height="212" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolSnk7Unv4v0E5W6MuKvyxCDVaJCD96fISxVAc13djnoRuMhtyxq4mYCrfDFHUi8bGTxn-UOXjQHvN4Tq9iwAijLa5QWc4jntigPhBQ07CCmE88NZ8pQ_Sg9MvuiqWvs9rbASkTE7hOo/s320/DCspb-pter.jpg" width="320" /></a>Venue 5 in Name that Hotel was the historic Pink Palace rich with history and warm hospitality. </div><div closure_uid_3oezo7="132">Situated on 7 miles of powdery white beachfront, the legendary Don CeSar Beach Resort, A Loews Hotel offers pampering spa treatments, 2 pools, 3 award winning restaurants and lounges, 40,000 sq/ft of indoor/outdoor meeting space and Camp CeSar for the younger guests ages 4-12. Florida s Pink Palace is a radiant reminder of what it means to escape the ordinary!</div></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-90409095448682451592011-07-14T10:20:00.000-04:002011-07-14T10:20:51.544-04:00Name That Hotel ~ Venue 5 ~ Results July15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolSnk7Unv4v0E5W6MuKvyxCDVaJCD96fISxVAc13djnoRuMhtyxq4mYCrfDFHUi8bGTxn-UOXjQHvN4Tq9iwAijLa5QWc4jntigPhBQ07CCmE88NZ8pQ_Sg9MvuiqWvs9rbASkTE7hOo/s1600/DCspb-pter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolSnk7Unv4v0E5W6MuKvyxCDVaJCD96fISxVAc13djnoRuMhtyxq4mYCrfDFHUi8bGTxn-UOXjQHvN4Tq9iwAijLa5QWc4jntigPhBQ07CCmE88NZ8pQ_Sg9MvuiqWvs9rbASkTE7hOo/s320/DCspb-pter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Entertain your guests with magical sunsets, sparkling water and sugar sand beaches. World class elegance ... one of a kind ... truly special!Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-13646194164138482492011-07-09T09:04:00.001-04:002011-07-09T09:05:01.697-04:00Name That Hotel ~ Venue 4 ~ DoubleTree by Hilton Tampa Airport-WestshoreDoubleTree by Hilton Tampa Airport-Westshore is among the largest hotels in Tampa offering over 16,000 square feet of newly renovated meeting space including 14 meeting rooms and a 9,100 sq ft ballroom. We’re a favorite for event planners, as all function space is located on the first level, providing a great flow for events and convenient load in. Our function space includes a permanent registration counter with lockable office/storage, spacious pre-function areas and our ballroom includes a permanent, recessed stage. Attendees enjoy great savings with complimentary airport shuttle service, complimentary parking and other great amenities such as our 24 hour business center, outdoor pool and 24 hour fitness center. 489 contemporary guest rooms and 17 luxurious suites include flat panel HDTV’s, Sweet Dreams by DoubleTree bedding and most rooms offer a balcony. At DoubleTree by Hilton Tampa Airport-Westshore, the little things mean everything!<br />
Tune in Monday for Venue 5!Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-74442031875294105852011-07-06T10:37:00.004-04:002011-07-09T09:02:23.169-04:00Name That Hotel ~ Venue 4 ~ Results July 8<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mR3Ol5YfzNGJnLtAruarJllM7um2NwyHO3k0dUE9o-eB0PfoGEdQhgwO3z36btvPNrOy2MDKFCktsUzzLF4BW8srpIYGp1H0fEp4wuIZNey2hyphenhyphenm0emgV9k4MHZql7VCsJEKs_U_bES4/s1600/DT+Ws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mR3Ol5YfzNGJnLtAruarJllM7um2NwyHO3k0dUE9o-eB0PfoGEdQhgwO3z36btvPNrOy2MDKFCktsUzzLF4BW8srpIYGp1H0fEp4wuIZNey2hyphenhyphenm0emgV9k4MHZql7VCsJEKs_U_bES4/s320/DT+Ws.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>This shot shows one of the fun spots you can visit after the meeting day concludes. They are well known for abundant meeting space and plenty of guest rooms so it makes for an exceptional self contained convention site.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>As an independent meeting professional we work with a lot of hotels and hold a treasure chest of awesome venues and priceless relationships. We are not destination or chain biased and work with properties worldwide. </strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Join our Facebook page ( http://www.facebook.com/A2ZMeetings ) every Monday for a newly featured hotel photo. Every Friday we will announce the first correct respondent along with details on the latest happenings at the featured hotel.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>It is quick, fun and may even be educational. If you would like to feature your favorite venue, contact us for details. Do you know our forth featured venue?</strong></span><br />
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</div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-24301419232245259002011-07-05T13:39:00.000-04:002011-07-05T13:39:58.540-04:00TradeWinds Island Grand ... Can't believe no one guessed correctly!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Many new updates since I left in December 2008 and it is great to see the new fresh look!! ... </strong>Consistently recognized as a premier meeting destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast, newly renovated meeting space and guest rooms bring a clean, contemporary feel to this perennial favorite renowned for it relaxed, welcoming ambiance and friendly, efficient staff. 585 guest rooms and suites, and 68,000 square feet of meeting space, provide an ideal setting for any group. Five pools, 14 dining and entertainment venues, shopping and spa services make this a true destination in itself. So after your meeting, take a break, sink your toes deep into the sugary white sand and watch the sunset from a beachside hammock, the warm Florida sun and the inviting gulf breezes beckon you to embrace life’s little pleasures. </span></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-6304788423805186232011-06-27T14:23:00.000-04:002011-06-27T14:23:37.946-04:00Name That Hotel ~ Venue 3 ~ Results July 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEida1vKk1Aj92IVsw-b5gJPkUTM3RaaMuc79gd6MHt1eYemzSEMRW46bDSdZkIe9_sw2CxAmnD0D0MwO_XExUMVIMQS0zxHtZbBfPlFdNGdbSJQsr7JFOsgZt7XAcSPyJ031DpCjYbteH4/s1600/3+GHR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEida1vKk1Aj92IVsw-b5gJPkUTM3RaaMuc79gd6MHt1eYemzSEMRW46bDSdZkIe9_sw2CxAmnD0D0MwO_XExUMVIMQS0zxHtZbBfPlFdNGdbSJQsr7JFOsgZt7XAcSPyJ031DpCjYbteH4/s320/3+GHR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>This one should be easy! Be sure to go to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/A2ZMeetings">http://www.facebook.com/A2ZMeetings</a> to connect!</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>No one guessed correctly on last week's featured property. Yes it was a tough one but a great venue! Last week's featured venue was the newly renovated St. Petersburg Marriott Clearwater hotel which provides the latest high tech amenities for guests offering 173 guest rooms and 24 suites. With 30,000 sq. ft. of functional event space, you can have up to 10 breakout meeting rooms and the 7,225 sq ft Grand Ballroom accommodates up to 800. Enjoy stylish, top notch service at the gateway where Tampa and St. Petersburg connect.</strong></span><br />
</div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-6978565587029785132011-06-20T09:39:00.002-04:002011-06-27T14:30:09.162-04:00Name That Hotel ~ Venue 2 ~ Results posted June 24<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgelbWOhWmlWyCAx18i2Q9Zy3QdU00d_siCMxwuP2mbCOHfxXq6fIpshBhSMvupqoZ91Fb5vcuo1q35Wl-kw5e9BJD50yRMhhXEcp-o6p5UgKp8YlO2IQXn6iD1giP33o8mRu1H3Sk4xv0/s1600/2+Greatroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgelbWOhWmlWyCAx18i2Q9Zy3QdU00d_siCMxwuP2mbCOHfxXq6fIpshBhSMvupqoZ91Fb5vcuo1q35Wl-kw5e9BJD50yRMhhXEcp-o6p5UgKp8YlO2IQXn6iD1giP33o8mRu1H3Sk4xv0/s200/2+Greatroom.jpg" width="161" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Selecting the right venue for your meeting or event is one of the first steps to success. Join our weekly contest to see if you can recognize some of the great spots to choose from.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>The title of the game gives you a clue ... these are all hotels and not country clubs, restaurants, museums, club houses, gardens, attractions or other options that do not have overnight guest rooms associated with them. Those are all fabulous options for special events. The area convention and visitors bureau will be happy to provide a list of venue options for special events. Hiring a Meeting expert to partner in the overall coordination really helps to orchestrate every detail.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>UPDATE June 24 ... Thanks to my dear friend Eric Peak for providing Venue 2!</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>The newly renovated St. Petersburg Marriott Clearwater hotel provides the latest high tech amenities for guests offering 173 guest rooms and 24 suites. With 30,000 sq. ft. of functional event space, you can have up to 10 breakout meeting rooms and the 7,225 sq ft Grand Ballroom accommodates up to 800. Enjoy stylish, top notch service at the gateway where Tampa and St. Petersburg connect.</strong></span></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-42653989697895199772011-06-17T09:41:00.000-04:002011-06-17T09:41:55.281-04:00Name that Hotel this week was Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk and Jaci Lowther guessed correctly!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Enjoy small town comforts in a downtown setting for a first-class meeting experience at the Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk hotel. We’re just 8 miles from Tampa International Airport and convenient to Tampa Bay’s most popular attractions. We offer 12,000 square feet of meeting and event space, most with windows allowing for natural lighting and gorgeous riverfront views. Our 277 spacious guestrooms including 16 suites feature the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Beds, complimentary WiFi, and over half include furnished riverfront balconies. Connect with us today to learn about our special group promotions and learn how the Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk can be home to your next program.</span><br />
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</div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-66557545628506222162011-06-15T15:26:00.000-04:002011-06-15T15:26:13.077-04:00Name That Hotel ~ Venue 1 ~ Results June 10<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURo_j17c7Up5bUWV2y1qv8-Rpfwj1MuPaMq-UX7YOVfaTOwpZWi9TEiQlrXCfDKoofsRn18MQO7Jf98um7YvZppqpuR4Y25UUG4pn_iY_6c8sFB5JtgiOaV2KEhGPPPaLD2tCdBIqWWA/s1600/1+RR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURo_j17c7Up5bUWV2y1qv8-Rpfwj1MuPaMq-UX7YOVfaTOwpZWi9TEiQlrXCfDKoofsRn18MQO7Jf98um7YvZppqpuR4Y25UUG4pn_iY_6c8sFB5JtgiOaV2KEhGPPPaLD2tCdBIqWWA/s320/1+RR.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>Join our Facebook page ( http://www.facebook.com/A2ZMeetings ) every Monday for a newly featured hotel photo. Every Friday we will announce the first correct respondent along with details on the latest happenings at the featured hotel.</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>It is quick, fun and may even be educational. If you would like to feature your favorite venue, contact us for details. Do you know our first featured venue?</strong></span></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>As an independent meeting professional we work with a lot of hotels and hold a treasure chest of awesome venues and priceless relationships. We are not destination or chain biased and work with properties worldwide.</strong></span></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-27053316020409431702011-06-13T17:44:00.001-04:002011-06-15T15:16:50.474-04:00Name that Hotel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">As an independent meeting professional we work with a lot of hotels and hold a treasure chest of awesome venues and priceless relationships. </span><span style="color: #38761d;">We are not destination or chain biased and work with properties worldwide.</span></strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong> </strong></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0nxKS6T_NOJz2G286vnBbvhORURykk7vR5nm-aBVKBZ9lCXaFOER_-HLyTrdHCPatTDID02BhvYIH4mlBUq1wo-JFxe_bffz9YLy78BRR0ZpDRfWbPNEJ74VAG5jdhZgdIo5Nc6IhcU/s1600/1+RR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0nxKS6T_NOJz2G286vnBbvhORURykk7vR5nm-aBVKBZ9lCXaFOER_-HLyTrdHCPatTDID02BhvYIH4mlBUq1wo-JFxe_bffz9YLy78BRR0ZpDRfWbPNEJ74VAG5jdhZgdIo5Nc6IhcU/s320/1+RR.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a> </div><span style="color: #38761d;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Join our Facebook page ( http://www.facebook.com/A2ZMeetings ) every Monday for a newly featured hotel photo. </span><span style="color: #38761d;">Every Friday we will announce the first correct respondent along with details on the latest happenings at the featured hotel.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">It is quick, fun and may even be educational. If you would like to feature your favorite venue, contact us for details. Do you know our first featured venue?</span><br />
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</div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-79614040166454391462010-10-30T01:09:00.001-04:002010-10-30T01:34:38.490-04:0010 AmA2Zing Affirmations for Success & Abundance<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mIJ1gkLJvbWdxzpvOpSGknG4ZgGGfKWEKQgJyvYsFcelUs7h7Vg9kN7cLGumSixoq0NKWMCHeS2sf8_DG97J3KyOPjR3vHERi_IhBaX1PiL2fsoKlUe-YYCJEDuL8FyVqdFD6a6knQI/s1600/pym_logo.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="56" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mIJ1gkLJvbWdxzpvOpSGknG4ZgGGfKWEKQgJyvYsFcelUs7h7Vg9kN7cLGumSixoq0NKWMCHeS2sf8_DG97J3KyOPjR3vHERi_IhBaX1PiL2fsoKlUe-YYCJEDuL8FyVqdFD6a6knQI/s200/pym_logo.bmp" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><strong>Associating with positive people is at the core of success. People who stretch you and ask you to share your expertise force you to dig inside to be sure you reach the roots of what makes you unique so accept every opportunity to dive into self-discovery. </strong><strong> Lisa Kraus with Plan Your Meetings is one of those individuals who turned my sour grapes complaint into sweet wine. Because of that experience, I have become a raving fan and speaker whenever she needs me to help out. Be sure to use them and their suppliers as a resource. They are committed to education, relationship building and collaboration. Check out their Knowledge Series </strong></span></span><a href="http://www.planyourmeetings.com/pym-knowledge-series/"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>www.planyourmeetings.com/pym-knowledge-series/</strong></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #274e13;"> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and their town hall meetings on You Tube.</span></span></strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
<strong><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>I had the pleasure of working with Plan Your Meetings this week at the Sheraton Sand Key. Do yourself a favor and take a close look at this resort. The service team is extraordinary! They have longevity, commitment, quality and creativity on every level of the organization. They partner and collaborate with planners to learn your needs and exceed your expectations. The leader of this sales organization is always upbeat and positive. No matter what question you ask Jack Guy, he will find a compliment to share.</strong></span></div><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>These are just two samples of some great partners that have touched my life and I invite you to experience them as they are worthy of special attention in the world of meetings and events. I promised affirmations that are guaranteed to make you smile when you repeat them and live them and believe them. </strong></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ten Affirmations for Success and Abundance</span></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- I am open to the flow of great abundance in all areas of my life.</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- I allow the universe to bless me in surprising and joyful ways.</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- My grateful heart is a magnet that attracts more of everything I desire.</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- I exude passion, purpose and prosperity.</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- I am always led to the people who need what I have to offer.</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- My day is filled with limitless potential in joy, abundance and love.</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- I always have more than enough of everything I need.</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- The more I give away, the more it multiplies and is returned to me.</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- As my commitment to help others grows, so does my joy and wealth.</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>- I am thankful for all the blessings in my life!</strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Keep coming back for more! </span></span><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></strong><a href="http://www.a2zmeetingsandevents.com/"><strong><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">www.a2zmeetingsandevents.com</span></strong></a></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-66376650926411400562010-04-24T14:22:00.005-04:002010-04-24T18:53:49.246-04:00Suppliers Feed Our Needs<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>My goal as a professional meeting planner is to serve our industry and educate hoteliers, clients and suppliers on best practices to build and maintain healthy, permanent relationships. I had the opportunity to wear many hats at a recent Meeting Professionals International meeting and there are so many suppliers who really impacted the outcome of that meeting. Each hero played an integral part in making it special. The Holiday Inn Harbourside on Indian Rocks Beach served and incredible meal. I guaranteed 5% over the registered guests and set the room for 10% over. How exciting that we actually had a 20% increase to our counts as walk ins and 0 no shows! </strong></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEyfXSX2FOVFSSTCk7ghms4Ajfluur1M9TKbg1i-qyb_awBGk1ryKcFDQQtd1yem0oipcVucmTik5Pn073nsD7ktFvf1qEVyt2v-cxKfiudpsvSFQ5tElacM9nu0x1VUPPUc6eqpT5ao/s1600/Kathy+Potts,+Angie+Wing,+Danah+Heye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEyfXSX2FOVFSSTCk7ghms4Ajfluur1M9TKbg1i-qyb_awBGk1ryKcFDQQtd1yem0oipcVucmTik5Pn073nsD7ktFvf1qEVyt2v-cxKfiudpsvSFQ5tElacM9nu0x1VUPPUc6eqpT5ao/s320/Kathy+Potts,+Angie+Wing,+Danah+Heye.jpg" tt="true" width="241" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Carolyn Casey remained calm and had tables set while we started our program. Food service was delayed slightly which left our speaker no time to have her meal. Kathy Potts at Oncore Performance Group, LLC will hold your attention and while you hear her story ... you will be thinking about your own. What changes do I need to make in my life so I am living my passion? What IS my passion? What is getting in the way? She is no nonsense and digs until she finds the answer ... sometimes (probably most times) the voice that keeps us from our dreams is fear rather than reality. Kathy is dynamic, real and creates a relationship when she is working with you. Her singing talent is a bonus and a real gift! She made me laugh and made me cry and left a mark on my brain and heart.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>I write a thank you and include a recommendation for her talent as a guest speaker and she returns the following: </strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong><em>“Linda is the type of professional to roll-up her sleeves and jump-to the task at hand. As the keynote speaker for MPI's April Meeting, several key leaders were out of town, and in the last moments Linda raised her hand to take-on responsibility for ensuring the success of the meeting. Linda created a relationship with me prior to the event, reviewing details such as AV Equipment, Agenda Flow, Marketing Tables, and such. When I arrived, she was ready to begin work immediately- creating a warm, while highly productive atmosphere. As it turned out, I was unable to eat lunch which</em> <em>was served during my presentation. Without missing a beat, Linda ensured I had a packed lunch waiting (and boy was I grateful for her extra initiative!) Linda has a charm about her that attracts laughter, as well as focus on the tasks at hand. If you want a personality to accompany the competence needed to plan your meetings ahead, call on Linda!” </em></strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>WOW! Who knew that the meal would be a detail that would be noticed! I just did what was right and treated her the way you should treat a partner. But what came next really stopped me in my tracks.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Kathy Potts tells me ... <em>There's more to the story... </em></strong></span><br />
<em><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>On the way home, I came across a homeless man. He didn't look like the typical homeless guy. Very clean-cut, muscular, well dressed...something wasn't quite right. His sign said "Hungry" - that's all. </strong></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>With a full meal in the box sitting next to me, I rolled down my window and called him over, "Hey man...I have a meal here for ya! We have steak, chicken, vegetables - but I'm sorry to say, I already ate the potatoes." </strong></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>"Thank you ma'am. I'm kinda new to this. I've only been homeless now for 3 days, and I'm embarrassed, but so grateful - thank you so much. My wife is going to be so thankful." </strong></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Linda - your kindness has reach that is beyond your imagination ;) </strong></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Please...do post the testimonial :) </strong></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>(oh...and grabbed a bite at home) - hope that isn't seen as disrespectful. I just thought he needed the meal more than I. </strong></span></em><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Random acts of kindness to one another are so far reaching. Treat your supplier’s right and watch the world around you become a brighter place where relationships grow stronger and we all feel heard and cared for. Visit my website for other articles on supplier relationships. <a href="http://a2zmeetingsandevents.com/blog">a2zmeetingsandevents.com/blog</a> Treat 'em RIGHT!</strong></span>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-28155436427628069052010-03-26T23:28:00.003-04:002010-03-26T23:34:29.305-04:00Is it REALLY glamorous?<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>So you've exhibited in a few tradeshows and you feel like: </strong></span><br />
<ul><li><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>you've figured out how much of what to bring so you aren't lugging things home or throwing it in the trash ( the green team is watching you!)</strong></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1GX-FurD1g2xGavYIrA7um9OBsVHYnxPM_3Bc0RXbjYaGoobfMJuKiaWrl_obF9uQxxtwj_lUo1uKATQcsDAAQiIAjUGFq-nTG4287QANAXBdkcxyjAoAomO06btvBLr3o6RDHOFcjo/s1600/scan0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong></strong></span></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>how to theme your booth to attract a crowd</strong></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>what special items you'll bring for anyone who gives you a great request for proposal</strong></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>a target list of who your key prospects are</strong></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>a target list to check out the competition</strong></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>non competitive supplier vendors you need to chat with</strong></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1GX-FurD1g2xGavYIrA7um9OBsVHYnxPM_3Bc0RXbjYaGoobfMJuKiaWrl_obF9uQxxtwj_lUo1uKATQcsDAAQiIAjUGFq-nTG4287QANAXBdkcxyjAoAomO06btvBLr3o6RDHOFcjo/s1600/scan0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1GX-FurD1g2xGavYIrA7um9OBsVHYnxPM_3Bc0RXbjYaGoobfMJuKiaWrl_obF9uQxxtwj_lUo1uKATQcsDAAQiIAjUGFq-nTG4287QANAXBdkcxyjAoAomO06btvBLr3o6RDHOFcjo/s200/scan0025.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>which of the educational workshops you will attend (or not) for the sake of networking </strong></span></li>
</ul><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Take a peek at the "other side" by visiting </strong></span><a href="http://a2zmeetingsandevents.com/blog"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>http://a2zmeetingsandevents.com/blog</strong></span></a></div>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-67046594729868556122010-03-10T12:52:00.004-05:002010-03-10T13:03:17.091-05:00Fam Trip, Group Site Tour, Hosted Buyer Program … When can YOU go!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Regardless of what you call it, be sure you really are a qualified attendee. Don’t go if there is no chance you will book the venue in the foreseeable future. No one wants to be part of a trip where an unqualified buyer is taking advantage of the venue. In my last hotel we did 6 group site tours or familiarization trips in one year and each group was comprised of 10 – 12 planners.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjul-MDJEKbKLNXKxtdkp9tuYAB7c-a3GlL_0_0Q18t_BRciy1ZgEdJClDegD28isb5QDjr5Fv9u3f_pjkIyqKLd6gAm5LiEV8ydETywH4VW3BN7Hi_wlFd-pzePPeXj_GEP5xnRYrtLaw/s1600-h/DSC_6698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjul-MDJEKbKLNXKxtdkp9tuYAB7c-a3GlL_0_0Q18t_BRciy1ZgEdJClDegD28isb5QDjr5Fv9u3f_pjkIyqKLd6gAm5LiEV8ydETywH4VW3BN7Hi_wlFd-pzePPeXj_GEP5xnRYrtLaw/s200/DSC_6698.jpg" vt="true" width="81" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;">It is a lot of work to organize flights, ground transportation, special dietary needs, gifts, a theme and an agenda where everyone gets to know new people and it is still educational and fun. We created the format once and duplicated it 4 times for just captive meeting professionals and twice for independent meeting professionals with their client. We did not invite significant others to keep it very business focused and found a Thursday – Saturday program worked best in that it did not cut into too much personal time.</span><span style="color: #38761d;"><br />
</span></div><span style="color: #38761d;">To get 12 attendees, you need to invite at least 50 planners. Having several dates to offer helped to get qualified planners in at a time that best suits their schedule. We made it casual, interactive and left an afternoon for optional activities to show the variety of what your attendees can do in their spare time. Spa appointments were always a huge hit but city tours, attractions or special events can also be worthwhile. We kept it personal and focused so each guest felt like we recognized the most important person in the world. The cost is usually over $1,000 per planner so expect a well orchestrated follow up plan to track the success.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">It is also wonderful if the local Convention & Visitors Bureau attends to talk about the destination, partner opportunities and the type of services they provide. Any preferred vendors should also participate to showcase their offering.</span><span style="color: #38761d;"><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Depending on the ratio of business from the local market, it is fun to attend a “Show the Love” event that is a single meal with educational content or a dinner and overnight event. If you are doing a fair amount of business with a local venue, you should occasionally “shop” the venue to experience the service when the sales team is not around. That is the service that your guests receive.</span><span style="color: #38761d;"><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">No matter what you call these types of events, they can be an extremely effective use of your time in planning a meeting or event and build an amA2Zing lifetime relationship bond between the venue team and the professional meeting planner.</span>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-79628801978679550352010-02-21T23:51:00.000-05:002010-02-21T23:51:12.772-05:00Tips to delegate tasks and keep control of what really matters<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I spoke with a corporate meeting planner recently and she said “I’m happy to have a job but I lost my assistant in the downsizing and now I am doing the work of two people. I feel as though I was demoted. There is not enough time to do it all and do it well.”</span> <span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDZqy33Efdfj7UjGVj7F6lHabzAivB-NAg1VeJD-wgKqr4nOLT11uIXXvTzToc9z65dPvQ3d0uMfrAzR6zSB7ugvkVm2Fzh9eENZ7H7SZSLsUxApcwuBhWyeAYHw7lqi5gRrBJoW766EU/s1600-h/a2zLogo_blue.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDZqy33Efdfj7UjGVj7F6lHabzAivB-NAg1VeJD-wgKqr4nOLT11uIXXvTzToc9z65dPvQ3d0uMfrAzR6zSB7ugvkVm2Fzh9eENZ7H7SZSLsUxApcwuBhWyeAYHw7lqi5gRrBJoW766EU/s200/a2zLogo_blue.gif" width="183" /></a></div><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><strong>Did you know you can hire a professional meeting planner to do all the research, negotiate all components of the meeting, ensure the best rates at no cost to you or your company?</strong> </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Regardless of whether your meeting is an intimate board meeting, an intense sales training meeting or a multi-day trade show, what you want and expect as your end result is the same.... a successful and well received event. As all professional meeting planners know, the key to a successful event is dependent upon the seamless execution of your details. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">If you have experience in the meeting planning industry, you may be quite capable of managing the event yourself. Assistance with advance research may be all that you need to get the process started. If you do not have background in meeting and event planning, allow a professional consultant to lead you on the path to securing the right site with the right terms. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">A professional meeting planner will save on your budget expense and add some cost effective enhancement ideas. They will partner with you and become an extension of your team. They can yield a more detailed site selection process along with a better contract, all the while insuring the needs of your event are considered.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><strong>Why isn’t there a fee for this service?</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Independent meeting professionals do not charge any fees to our clients for hotel site selection services because we are compensated by the hotel you choose on each room they sell to your group. Hotels give us a placement fee, this does not inflate your room rate what so ever. Your buying power is increased because we book thousands of rooms per year, at multiple properties. Hotels compete for your business, benefiting you with the lowest room rates available. It is in the best interest of the hotel to offer great rates to our clients, so we may in turn book their hotel or their brand again for other business.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><strong>Will hotels raise their rates to compensate your placement fee?</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">No. The hotel rates that A2Z Meetings & Events receives are at least as competitive as those you might find on your own – with the placement fee already built in. A2Z is able to negotiate these great rates due to the large quantity of business we direct to the hotel industry. The added bonus is that we know the rates and seasonality of properties throughout the country so we can make recommendations of how and where you will get the best value for your dollar.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><strong>Are meeting planners biased when choosing a venue?</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">An independent meeting professional will have your best interest and needs as their first priority. You are the decision maker as to where the meeting goes. Our job is to negotiate the best overall value package so you can make the best decision. The placement fee is fairly standard within the industry, so the meeting planner's "pay-out" is comparable wherever the meeting is booked. Professional meeting planners rely heavily on their reputations and the referrals they acquire so you can be confident they are going to work hard to earn both your business and your respect. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Enlist a planner that is honest about receiving a placement fee. We have over 27 years of experience in the meeting and event planning industry. We have earned a reputation by providing quality services based on an honest and ethical relationship with our clients and the properties you select. We work hard to gain and maintain your trust. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><strong>Are there other services available besides site selection and contract negotiation?</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">We are experienced in all avenues of professional meeting and event planning and have a team of service providers that assist us when a group chooses to have us work the meeting. The fee based services available are listed on our A2Z Meetings & Events website. Many independent meeting planners only provide the complimentary site selection and contract negotiation services while we will see you through from A2Z! </span>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-24926606695334765462010-02-21T19:03:00.004-05:002010-02-22T00:11:47.490-05:00Managing Your Priorities<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpayXuby5Hs3VBhOuTCRmfJTVc0V2nlUMncNBKpGzA3M6V9EOCYCV9VJXt1IpGEm4ziGMSKmc0689XTGrj7LTFR17IGVImrCea93Nj-ObF4zvGbZq4YdjCAGBvlQPDwXkZLhZ21-SztaA/s1600-h/j0401300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpayXuby5Hs3VBhOuTCRmfJTVc0V2nlUMncNBKpGzA3M6V9EOCYCV9VJXt1IpGEm4ziGMSKmc0689XTGrj7LTFR17IGVImrCea93Nj-ObF4zvGbZq4YdjCAGBvlQPDwXkZLhZ21-SztaA/s200/j0401300.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>HAPPY February!!! It has been a little chillier than we Floridians are used to but it is giving us the time to stay cozy and get those New Year Resolutions accomplished … My primary goal was weight loss and I am pleased to report I am down 11.5 pounds in 5 weeks! I’ll be happy to share my success formulas if you have an interest. Basically, it is about eating healthy and doing exercise … imagine that! The greatest deprivation has been eliminating my favorite adult beverage but the detoxification of all Caffeine, Refined sugar, Additives and Preservatives (CRAP) has been essential. It has been fun to invent new recipes that are creative, quick and easy. How are YOU doing on YOUR primary priority?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZphXsd6W8B0mG2X_xvhZHpZbKb6ua-O4c2kR0Km_DnwLqWF-jkdd-i11ALgH05ZYihX2zC9zzVATvSWs5ABFYdRu9AORZ7XDIivSUxOCreJC7SMfD4mNFiV2JcnABv_N4SEYOhyfPXw/s1600-h/j0398747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZphXsd6W8B0mG2X_xvhZHpZbKb6ua-O4c2kR0Km_DnwLqWF-jkdd-i11ALgH05ZYihX2zC9zzVATvSWs5ABFYdRu9AORZ7XDIivSUxOCreJC7SMfD4mNFiV2JcnABv_N4SEYOhyfPXw/s200/j0398747.jpg" width="143" /></a></div>With regard to business, I promised to step up my game on writing about the things that will be most helpful to you. Your comments have been so important … there was a time when I thought I was casting thought to the wind! I appreciate the energy that comes back from you as you inspire and ignite more energy. Think of how that makes people respond to your requests when you feed them praise. WOW! It creates a power that can make mere mortals move mountains! We cannot motivate anyone other than ourselves but we can inspire others through affirmations. So go find the stars in your life and let them know how they have impacted you. <br />
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This month I am focused on a fundraising event and awareness for an organization known as Dress For Success. This group restores dignity and hope for professional women in search of a new job. Women are referred to the agency and have a set appointment to meet with a volunteer that will help them select 2 suits, 2 blouses, a pair of shoes and a briefcase from the donations at the boutique. They will also assist with resume writing and have a computer lab to investigate opportunities to go out on interviews and launch their new life. <br />
Please plan to attend the fund raising Fashion event at SAKS FIFTH AVENUE February 25. Reservations are required and seating is limited. Details are found at http://bit.ly/9frpI7 .You will be in good company!<br />
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Also in the news … http://bit.ly/dvTzj7 … the latest on the Sustainable Business Conference & Expo. The topics will be announced later this month but mark your calendars!<br />
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Finally, the video intro to the website is on line! Keep coming back for more!Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4090617221188566792.post-70312756707244440302009-12-31T10:38:00.006-05:002010-02-21T19:22:51.934-05:00I Bestow Upon You the Gift of Time<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">HAPPY New Year!!! <span style="font-size: small;">What a glorious time of year this has been! I was able to help 2 new clients and still spend time with my loved ones. I started the month of November with things I was thankful for and they just multiplied as each gift was announced. I was determined to sprinkle positive energy on every person I was able to interact with and the more I gave away, the more it multiplied. I intend to continue to sprinkle positive energy throughout 2010 and I look forward to helping more friends and clients save time by planning and executing successful meetings on their behalf. I have so much fun doing this and YOU get the gift of time. Take a peek at the new expansions to my website. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://www.a2zmeetingsandevents.com/"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13;">http://www.a2zmeetingsandevents.com/</span></a><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Sound has been added for 30 seconds and video clips are next! A newsletter will also be coming out in 2010 and your tips and tricks may be included if you write to me.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">In my journey this year I have met some amA2Zing people and one of them has given me the gift of overflowing gratitude. Thank you, Terre! This was her latest gift. It is so awesome … please enrich yourself by taking the time to read this inspiring note and you will understand the gift that has been bestowed on you. Take advantage of this gift and bestow gifts on those you love and respect.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-xMEhgYf4TEvyna_7QLhXWQJ_0jCzOElxBkJcl7NRCXPkuJAeg0JOjfwhlTZuXTBBiGHoFr47WsRXUftWLkZct3B7Gl2yl5X0qGl_jeZGRRAWFY3Munr9jQ6s53nXIZ6YgTn7h7_QW8/s1600-h/Angel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-xMEhgYf4TEvyna_7QLhXWQJ_0jCzOElxBkJcl7NRCXPkuJAeg0JOjfwhlTZuXTBBiGHoFr47WsRXUftWLkZct3B7Gl2yl5X0qGl_jeZGRRAWFY3Munr9jQ6s53nXIZ6YgTn7h7_QW8/s320/Angel.jpg" /></span></a><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Thanks to Victoria Esther Ben-Toviya</span><br />
</div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This Thursday evening, Dec. 31st, will be the end of the first decade of the century. It will herald in the second decade, and begin the first “double digits” of the century 2010. (Remember when you went from 9 to 10 years old – double digits?!) It will also be the second full moon of the month of December, making it a BLUE MOON (in Cancer)! There will also be a partial eclipse of the moon in North America. At this season of short daylight, we have the double gift of the silvery reflected Light from the moon again to shimmer on our New Year’s Eve at this auspicious moment in history.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Some say that Moon Light is filled with feminine energy. Some say it is a time of fullness of vision (more light available at night) and therefore a good time for meditation upon our Inner Vision. Some say it is a time to look to our own feminine side and see how we most fully utilize our potentials for life giving – to ourselves and overflowing to others from our own “fullness”.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">What is this New Year bringing to your Pathway? What have you been conscious of lately? I hope you will take time to write it down and take one (first) step in whatever that is. What has been on the edge of your consciousness – hovering and hidden (partial eclipse) in your unconsciousness? Take some time to sit with those unconscious shadows and allow them to emerge, be recognized, integrated, and acted upon in a positive way for your personal growth and development.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">What is your “theme” for this year? (Check with your Inner Self). It might be your “Year of Peace”, so you seek Peace throughout your days this year. It might be your year of “Joy”. Where will you find joy this year?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">What gift do you bestow upon others this Year? “I bestow upon you the gift of ____”. Let your own inner wisdom fill in the blank for each person you love; bestowing this “wish” for them to receive in the coming year. I received the gift of “fun” from my sister. In the coming year I will look for ways to experience fun in my life.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I bestow upon you for this coming year, in the words of Julia Child, “Bon Appetit!” In Hebrew, “B’tai Avone” and may you have a wonderful appetite – for LIFE! (Send me this phrase in languages you know! I want to hear them!)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">If we are to help our patients live fully – it begins with us!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Let us celebrate life this year, 2010, with gusto, appetite, and eagerness for each juicy moment of Life to be rich, bold, bodacious and succulent!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Love and blessings to the Earth Angels with whom I am privileged to work,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Victoria Esther Ben-Toviya, MA, BCC</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Chaplain</span>Linda Elland, CHMEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08737834777320213460noreply@blogger.com0