Paula Katz, director of tourism and event sales at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, states, “Our venue can help with the planner’s budget since the spaces all offer beautiful views and therefore can cut down on décor that might be required at other, traditional sites.” Some estimates suggest a savings of $1,000-2,000 per event. Examples of the National Aquarium’s ambient event settings include the Underwater Viewing Area with views of swimming dolphins, Main Aquarium with four levels of aquatic life exhibits and the Aquarium Tent that offers views of the outlying harbor.

And this is just one example. All of the unique venues we call members have spectacular, unique and memorable event spaces that come as is. Sure you can still add your personal touches to a unique event location, but that’s all it takes-touches-to make your gathering a memorable affair.

Ray Charles had it right! Georgia evokes dreamy emotion and true Southern hospitality. Check out these unique venues for your next event.  Beginning in Gainsville in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brenau University offers palatial, plantation style architecture mixed with state-of-the-art conferencing technology.

Down Interstate 129, you will find Athens. This “Classic City of the South” shows off its stunning Victorian style setting but retains a very hip, chic modernism.  Here is the UGA Hotel and Conference Center offering breathtaking accommodations; perfect for events up to 600 individuals.

If you have a large event and you are looking for a fairgrounds type of venue, this is it.  Conyers is a small city with big bragging rights and is home to DeForest Kelly, Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy of the original TV series Star Trek. Georgia International Horse Park is nestled into this community and is the perfect place to take your event outdoors.

As you travel toward the east you’ll come to Statesboro and Georgia Southern University. This traditional southern campus is ideal for summer venues and can accommodate up to 2000 participants.  The University is Statesboro’s largest employer. Statesboro is home to Wal-Mart’s largest distribution center in the world covering nearly 2,200,000 square feet!

Along the eastern shore of Georgia is the great city of Savannah. USA Weekend Magazine touted Savannah as one of the “top 10 most beautiful places in America.”  The city boasts industries from shipping to high technology development.  The Armstrong Center is ready to welcome your event with a sophisticated environment and plentiful free parking.

Conveniently located between Atlanta and Orlando, the heart of South Georgia is the place to experience southern hospitality, beautiful landscapes and pleasant climate throughout the year.

Valdosta is one of Georgia’s most beautiful cities and home toValdosta State University. The academic setting of the University and the surrounding atmosphere of the city makes Valdosta State University an ideal place to host summer camps, conferences, receptions, special events and more!

It is imperative that the organiser chooses an event that suits the whole demographic of their group of employees.  An office environment can have a diverse range of employees so the activity must be able to engage everyone. As a company we ensure that we get a good understanding of the attendees before suggesting products for their event. We have products that can suit very specific groups such as our ‘Around the World’ event, which has activities themed to different countries so it is particularly suited to an international group.

Set a realistic budget

An organiser needs to be aware that the cost involved is not just for the activity itself but all the other components that make a successful event. If an outdoor event is of preference the client will need extra budget for grounds hire as well as the cost of a meeting room. Delegates will also need to be catered for during the event. A popular and effective choice is for delegates to enjoy a drink or meal post-event to continue the spirit of the bonding session and finish the event on a high.

Select the right venue

Team building events are a great reason to get employees out of the office. Having the event in a different location gives groups the opportunity to enjoy surroundings outside the office environment so venue selection is key.  We always suggest inspirational venues, which match the event that the client has chosen.  Venues with outdoor space are a perfect choice for a company who are based in a busy city centre.

Set clear objectives

It is important to know what you want to get out of your day. Does the event need to have a specific learning outcome for delegates or is it a reward for a job well done? Our 80+ product range is diverse and we have events to suit clear objectives.  We liaise with clients at the enquiry stage to ensure that we understand what a client is looking to achieve from their day and we match the product to the brief accordingly.  Some key focus areas are to increase productivity, break the ice between different internal groups, bring employees together to collaborate and establish better communication.

Build up the excitement pre-event

A teaser campaign is a great way for the organiser to engage employees and get the buzz circulating the office pre-event. Groups who don’t wish to do a full teaser campaign can benefit from building up the excitement by pre-selecting teams and allowing teammates to bond pre-event.  We often have groups arriving on the day with teams already named and customised team shirts to get the competition going so this can bring delegates together from the outset.

Inform delegates of the practicalities 

It is important that delegates are fully prepared for the event so communicating with the team pre-event regarding clothing, venue location and other vital information is key.  We always advise organisers of dress codes for activities and what we require before the event to ensure that it runs smoothly on the day.  It is imperative that this information is communicated to the delegates in order that they arrive in good time and wearing the correct attire.

It can be tiresome to follow up with a meeting planner who can’t make a decision or commit to your event; and trying to understand what keeps a group from signing a contract can be even more frustrating.

In actuality, the answer to the problem might be changing the questions you have for the meeting planner or group. Closed-ended questions that require a yes or no answer will allow the real objections to come forward. If you’re at the point of sale, these types of questions will allow you to be more direct and get to the answers you need right away so you can close the deal or move on to another prospect or group.

Here are some examples:

• Does our pricing fit your budget?

• Are you happy with the meeting space we’ve proposed to you?

• Are you ready to sign a contract?

I think salespeople have the hardest time with the last one – asking for the business. If you ask the questions in a closed-ended fashion and then stop talking, you’ll get your answer. It will either be a yes or no and you’ll know exactly where you stand! Give it a try.

Located in the mountains south of Asheville, North Carolina, Lutheridge Conference Center occupies 160 acres of private land. The center is only a couple miles south of the airport with easy access in and out.

This is the ideal setting specifically designed for team-building, corporate meetings, family gatherings, religious meetings, youth events, and more. The level of comfort and privacy in the lodging accommodations is unmatched with access to other amenities for shopping and dining. Visit Biltmore House, Biltmore Village, Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, Cradle of Forestry, Chimney Rock State Park, Hendersonville, and the town of Asheville.

This venue is geared for immersive experiences. Onsite amenities include hiking trails, 24-hour fitness room and guest service staff, indoor climbing wall, group interaction course, climbing tower, a lake for fishing or canoeing, disc golf course, multiple playgrounds and more.

State of the art meeting spaces include wireless internet, audio/video equipment and a huge variety of meeting configurations. This facility can accommodate up to 180 adults or 550 youth in housing ranging from hotel style to rustic cabins. Twelve meeting rooms provide ample room for all.

Lutheridge takes particular pride in your dining experience and is unique in that it maintains a partnership with Aramark to ensure that your meals are delicious and nutritious. Their professionally trained chef is attentive to detail and quality. Special accommodations for dietary needs such as diabetics, vegetarians, vegans, gluten free, and food allergies can be made. Enjoy Fair Trade Coffee in the dining room and at their coffee stations.

For a truly organic and memorable experience in a retreat environment, this unique venue is for you!

The University of Minnesota is located on the banks of the Mississippi River.    There is a wide variety of unique venues of various sizes and specifications, from historic to modern as well as state-of-the-art.  Venues include auditoriums that seat up to 2700, atriums,  “AV smart” meeting rooms, theaters, special event spaces, conference rooms, museums, libraries and outdoor spaces.  Athletic facilities include arenas that can set up to 50,000 outdoor and 15,000 indoor.  They also  have grass and turf fields, gymnasiums, pools, diving wells, soccer fields, and the fieldhouse with indoor and outdoor tracks, as well as  basketball courts.  The newly renovated Recreation Center offers multipurpose rooms along with an expanded fitness center, elevated indoor track, and rock climbing wall.

The University of Minnesota is a green campus that is committed to environmental sustainability.  Sustainability at the University of Minnesota is a continuous effort that integrates environmental, social and economic goals through design, planning and operational organization. Some of the outstanding sustainable practices on campus include new eco-friendly residence hall and campus-wide recycling.  University Dining Services participates in the sustainability effort by composting and utilizing a fresh food market with food grown locally on and near campus.

Summer guests at the University of Minnesota can choose from a variety of accommodations on campus , each providing comfort, convenience and affordable options for all attendees. Residence halls include single and double occupancy rooms, suite-style halls, and apartment-style housing.  The University has three hotels on campus from economical to Boutique—something to fit every need.  Summer guests will also enjoy easy campus navigation by using the free Campus Connector bus system  or by using the cities Metro Transit bus system.  The completion of the lightrail in 2014 will connect campus with Mall of America, the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport, downtown Minneapolis, and downtown St. Paul.  Come to the University of Minnesota and see what makes us “DRIVEN TO DISCOVER.”

The answer is a resounding yes.  Event planners can start by focusing on your budget when compared to other large cities.  Pittsburgh offers big city variety with significant savings over the more common choices of New York, Boston or Chicago.  Your guest arrive in “the Burgh” via a top of the line international airport and can be anywhere in the city within twenty minutes.  From there you can choose your Pittsburgh neighborhood based on the type of event you plan to hold.

Downtown – In the heart of the city venues range from hotels to full convention centers.  Most offer the fantastic backdrop of the city’s beautiful three rivers.  Your guests can walk throughout their stay, as the city center is very walker friendly.  Restaurants abound and range from five star dining to Pittsburgh’s iconic Primanti’s sandwiches.

If you really want to show off your uniqueness, host guests at another Pittsburgh icon, the Andy Warhol Museum.

Pittsburgh’s North Shore – This recently improved area of the steel city boasts venues ranging from the Rivers Casino to the Carnegie Science Center.  North shore venues offer stunning views of “the point”, or where the three rivers meet.  Most of the hotels and restaurants are new within the last ten years so you can be confident in your guest’s choices for a great event experience.   Another option to impress in this area of Pittsburgh is to host your guests at the stunning PNC park.

Oakland – Just outside the city center is the Oakland area of Pittsburgh, home of Pitt University.  Events located in the Oakland area have a variety of cultural venues to consider.  Booking at either the Phipps Conservatory or The Carnegie Museum is sure to generate that lasting impression that you’re trying to create for your guests.

The South Side – On the shore of the Monongahela River is Pittsburgh’s south side. This is an area that offers a main street feel with a sprawling bar district.  If your event requires an active nightlife with lots of variety, then the south side may be your choice.

If you think Pittsburgh might be right, but would like a bit of help, then let us find a venue for you.  It’s free and you can work with our expert to select the venue or venues to make your event memorable.  You can take a broader view of the Pittsburgh region here.

In today’s economy, planners not only have to be budget-conscious but image-conscious as well. Hosting events or conferences, especially in the public sector, nonprofit or educational industries, presents a fine line of matching memorability with message. While most traditional venues such as hotels and conference centers can do the trick, college and university campuses offer a beneficial alternative, providing a supportive environment and practical amenities-sometimes at half the cost.

“We are not in the hotel industry, so our motive is not the bottom line,” asserts Perry Hacker, director of the University Guest House & Conference Center at the University of Utah. While the idea is not to compete with hotels (“partnering with them for overflow” is a better idea according to Hacker) it’s hard not to when you consider the cost savings alone that are associated with hosting a meeting or event on campus.

“In 2012 alone, we were able to drop costs almost $100,000 by using conference services at universities,” says Jennifer Bruss, a planner with New Jersey-based Standards Solution. In fact, a big part of the savings structure comes from all the included extras you do get, rate-free, at a full-serve college campus. Besides all-inclusive room rentals, other bonuses on campus include the access to local transportation and an academic environment that aids in allowing groups to focus on their agendas.

Nothing evokes images of the promise of the American Dream like New York.  The “Empire State” as it’s known, conjures nostalgia and has signature locations like New York City, The Finger Lakes and Niagara Falls. It has called millions globally to it’s heart and is the pulse of our Nation.

New York City

Situated on the South Eastern Atlantic Seaboard, New York City is home to some 8,400,000 citizens encompassing one of the widest ethnic and cultural strata in the world.

It is a commercial superpower and home to the New York Stock Exchange. The city has endless entertainment and venue planning possibilities.  Transportation is never an issue with myriad taxi services, subways, and buses coursing through it’s veins.  Choosing a venue from this city offers flexibility, panache and sophistication.  Iconic locations like Yankee Stadium, The Empire State building, or Staten Island will inspire wonder and awe making your event memorable and magical. New York City is comprised of distinct areas and includes: Long Island, Manhattan (the central business district), Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx.

New York City

Ranging north on Interstate 87 along the banks of the Hudson River takes the traveler north past the towns of Purchase and Pleasantville on the eastern shore and Nyack on the western shore. Farther north, the Catskill Mountains Region offers placid vacations or adventure packed activities.  Just a short distance up the interstate is New York State’s Capital City of Albany.  Tour the Hudson by boat or ride the trolley through this historic Dutch centerpiece for the State. This region is historical and intimate, ideal for venues where a more relaxed atmosphere is desired.

Adirondack Region

For a truly remote and wild experience head to the northern tip of New York State, home to Adirondack State Park.  It is the largest state park in the United States.  This park is pristine open wilderness with some six million acres to explore.  Here you’ll find Saratoga Springs and Silver Bay offering placid accommodations.

From Albany take the grand ribbon of the Interstate 90 corridor.  This exquisite highway leads you west through Utica, and into Syracuse along the northern border of the Finger Lakes region.  The Finger Lakes offer crystal clear waters, breathtaking waterfalls and access to a myriad of wineries from the Seneca Valley.

Catskills

Niagra Falls

Traveling toward the western border of New York State passing by Rochester to the North and Lake Ontario, Buffalo, The “City of Good Neighbors” sits on the eastern shore of Lake Erie.  This city is the gateway to Niagara Falls, both the American side and Canadian shore. Enjoy the majesty of the falls where Lake Erie spills into Lake Ontario via the Niagara River.

Vineyard

Heading back east on the New York and Pennslyvania State lines along Interstate 86 is Clymer. This area is steeped in a long history of making wines and thousands of acres of lush vineyards. Also along this interstate you will pass through Salamanca – The Seneca Nations of Indians.

New York State is the embodiment of diversity. Plan your next event in the State of New York and see why we love it!

If your organization is in New York State, then join us at Unique Venues. You belong here!

All images are courtesy of Morguefile.com and are copyright and license/royalty free.

From the City of the Big Shoulders comes an exceptional value! University Center Conference Chicago resides in the heart this landmark city.  Ease of access is granted by Interstate 90, 290 and 41 whisking in travelers from all directions.

Conference Chicago is surrounded by attractions that are all within walking distance in this “Windy City”.  Be sure to visit the, Buckingham Fountain, Museum Campus, State Street Shopping Corridor, Millennium and Grant Park and the Theatre district all within walking distance.  Just blocks from the property to the east is the Mighty Lake Michigan. Ample parking surrounds Conference Chicago.

This one-of-a-kind, multi-institutional building is a full service conference center offering affordable accommodations for private groups and transient business large or small.  Guest suites and rooms boast a sheik, urban feel with plenty of natural light and spectacular views. The Center offers 10 meeting rooms with configurable layouts, 15,000 square feet of meeting space and an outdoor terrace provides flexibility.

UCCC infuses state-of-the-art meeting and presentation technologies. Computer data projection with screens, audio/video conferencing, wireless internet access, DVD/CD players, and other streaming media technologies.

Nothing makes a meeting or conference better than good food…take advantage of UCCC’s on-site catering, from light snacks to customized food options and energizing assortment of snacks and refreshments. Choose from a diverse menu with outstanding prices.

Conference Chicago is available 7 days a week with evening and weekend staffing. Summer housing is available at extremely competitive rates. It’s all here!

If you are looking for high value in a spectacular urban setting, this is your next stop! Book your next successful event at the University Center Conference Chicago.