We were in in New York City earlier this month to discover what opportunities and experiences it could bring to our Conference and Incentive groups.
With all major global iconic cities. There is simply so much on offer that planning can be quite overwhelming and daunting. So it is essential to establish those key event objectives along with those "must have moments" every delegate will want to experience.
Be realistic, you cannot cover everything in one visit, much like you cannot please everyone in the group. This is why we recommend small internal discussion group in the planning process. That way as planners we can work on an agenda for the event that should have enough points to keep all happy in the main. But also keeps control of the all important budget!
Our Hotel:
Hard Rock Hotel - New York
A super cool, quirky hotel ideally situated at the top of Times Square. It is an ideal choice in the city and has some amazing event space and options for corporate / mice groups.
As with all Hard Rock properties, you are surrounded with memorabila and artifcts from legends and artists throughout the building. We even went on one floor that has a picture of Paul Simon one end and Art Garfunkel the other!
Within the main hotel, it has a great NY Yankees themed restaurant that can be privatised for events. Even if you're not the biggest fan of baseball, the space is beautifully designed and brings real character to your dining experience.
RT60 is their rooftop bar which is a great space for a welcome reception or after party. But for those wanting a little more privacy and a bit more wow (budget allowing!!) go one floor up to the Penthouse Rockstar suite. Here you have an incredible living space that is multi functional for small group receptions and meetings. Along with the amazing outside private roof terrace. You can't get more rockstar than that!
The Venue is connected to the main hotel, but has a separate entrance. This is an amazing conference space with first class facilities and AV. You can even hire this for your own concert with the likes of Ed Sheeran!!`
It also boasts first class service across the board with a team that go the extra mile for you and your guests. But also completely understand and buy into the brand itself - 100% Rockstars!
Activities:
With any event held in a major city or cultural hotspot. You have to factor in seeing the key sights into any agenda. With New York, you have so many sights to see; Empire State Building, 9/11 Memorial, Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Wall Street, Central Park...it goes on and on.!
One way we often put together for our client groups is a film or / boxset tour. It takes the clunkyness (yes it is a word!) of a treasure hunt away from a city tour. We create with you a tour of the destination's key interest spots, but done in a way where you see it through your favourite films or box sets. We event throw in some trivia and unknown facts around that location and the many scenes filmed there over the years.
Depending on the demographic age of your group. We find pop culture will engage and excite your group more than maybe a historical factual tour. Speak to the team for more on this - we love to get creative and it always provides a great talking point across the event.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Situated in midtown, this experience gives you 3 levels of multi sensory immersive fun. as well as an unrivalled 360 degree view of the city. It's the ultimate Instagram photo opportunity and is great to add into your event itinerary. Be warned, it will take some planning and organising on the day to avoid the queues. So make sure you have a great event planner on board ;) and we book this in as early as we can.
Little Italy - Cooking Experience
Who doesn't want to learn to cook a meal just like mama? From making your own gnocchi to hand made veal meatballs. Not only is this a fun experience to be shared and enjoyed over a glass or two of wine. But you will also pick up some great tips on the basics of cooking and some skills to take back with you to wow your next dinner party.
Not only that, but Little Italy in downtown Manhattan is a quite stunning neighbourhood to walk through and enjoy.
Event Spaces:
Along with the Venue at Hard Rock New York. There are of course a number of event spaces in the city and just beyond for you to host a forum, conference, welcome reception or private dining group.
The Rockafella Center has some great spaces with amazing views across the city. There are options for a cruise along the Hudson taking in the famous skyline and the Statue of Liberty. This can be used in a number of ways, conference and forum, dining or simply enjoy a reception party taking in the sights.
Or maybe pop out of Manhattan across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge to "DUMBO" (Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass). It's a lovely artisan area by the river below the bridge with some great event spaces, bars and restaurants.
Summary:
Luxury leisure brands have been making huge strides into the corporate events market since the world opened up again. It's time to start giving some real consideration for your events and see how much of an experience they can bring to your conference and incentive groups.
With so much to offer in NYC as an events destination. Our main objective here was to get you excited for NYC and showcase some of the amazing events and event experiences that can be had there.
Let's start the conversation - info@wearemeat.com
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