Corporate Event Trends 2024

In the dynamic realm of corporate events, anticipating and embracing emerging trends is pivotal for orchestrating memorable experiences. As we hit the halfway mark of 2024, let's dive into what corporate event trends we’re seeing in the world of event planning and VIP experiences.

Here are the key corporate event trends defining the narrative in 2024: 

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Personalized Experiences

Tailoring events to individual preferences is a trend gaining traction and we’re proud to say that at American Guest this is built into our ethos. Personalized experiences are our bread and butter, and we’ve seen them take top priority for event-goers today. Regardless of group size, everyone wants that special touch that makes their experience unforgettable. At American Guest, we thrive on creating those "wow" moments, right from the moment attendees step into their vehicles. Whether it's a thoughtful gesture, unique amenities waiting in their rooms, or surprising them with a local gem they might not have discovered otherwise, we're dedicated to crafting experiences that resonate long after the event is over.

Immersive Technologies

Building upon the virtual and hybrid experiences, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are now a focal point of events. They're not just for gaming anymore! With AR, you can see digital images overlaid on the real world, while VR lets you explore completely virtual environments. Whether it's giving virtual tours of venues or showing off products in interactive ways, these technologies are taking corporate events to the next level. It's like bringing the event to life right in front of your eyes!

Hybrid and Virtual Experiences

The surge in virtual events post-covid transformed the industry and continues to do so even if we don’t always notice. While zoom fatigue is real, the rise of hybrid events presents an opportunity to strike the perfect balance between in-person engagement and virtual accessibility. These innovative events integrate physical and digital elements, offering attendees a dynamic experience that goes beyond geographical boundaries. With cutting-edge virtual platforms we’re finding a new way to connect and collaborate on a global scale. This flexibility not only enhances accessibility for participants from diverse locations but also opens doors to creative possibilities that were previously unimaginable.

Inclusive and Diverse Programming

In the world of incentive events, it's crucial to include everyone and celebrate our differences. Event planners are making sure that all kinds of people are represented in their events. They're bringing in speakers from diverse backgrounds to share their stories and ideas. Plus, they're using marketing strategies that welcome everyone, so nobody feels left out. By making events more diverse, planners are creating spaces where everyone feels like they belong. And as leaders in the incentive travel industry, we strive to create events where everyone feels valued and included.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Events

As the year progresses, sustainability continues to be an important force. Corporate events are now being designed in a green state of mind, encompassing everything from venue selection to the materials used in event decor. Event planners are harnessing technology to minimize waste, creating events that align with environmental values.

As we navigate the dynamic landscape of corporate events and incentives through 2024, American Guest stands ready to lead the way. From personalization to immersive technologies, our expertise ensures your event isn't just current but sets new standards and WOWs! If you're planning your next corporate gathering, let us help you orchestrate an experience where innovation meets distinction, and every detail reflects our passion for creating exceptional moments!

Top 10 US Destinations for Corporate Groups: Where Business Meets Pleasure 

In the fast-paced world of corporate gatherings and conferences, choosing the right destination can make all the difference. The United States offers a diverse range of cities and regions that cater to various business needs while also providing a memorable backdrop for your meetings. Whether you're planning a large conference or a small corporate retreat, these top 10 US destinations for meetings have you covered. 

Las Vegas, Nevada

   Known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas offers unparalleled meeting facilities and accommodations. The city's modern convention centers like the Las Vegas Convention Center and numerous luxury hotels make it a top choice for hosting large conferences and trade shows. 

Chicago, Illinois

   Chicago's central location and world-class amenities make it an ideal meeting destination. The city boasts a state-of-the-art convention center, McCormick Place, and a vibrant downtown area with restaurants, entertainment options, and iconic landmarks. 

Orlando, Florida

   For a perfect blend of business and leisure, Orlando shines with its countless meeting spaces and proximity to world-famous theme parks. The Orange County Convention Center is one of the largest in the country, accommodating events of all sizes. 

New York City, New York

   The Big Apple needs no introduction. New York City offers an impressive selection of meeting venues, from historic hotels to cutting-edge conference centers. The city's global accessibility and cultural attractions make it a top choice for international gatherings. 

San Francisco and NAPA Valley, California

   The Bay Area's innovation hub, San Francisco, is an excellent choice for tech-related conferences and corporate events. With its stunning waterfront views and iconic landmarks, it provides an inspiring backdrop for your meetings. With NAPA a short drive away, you can get a lot of bang for your budget with two destinations in one. 

Washington, D.C.

   The nation's capital is the go-to destination for government-related meetings, policy conferences, and associations. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center is one of the largest in the region, and the city's rich history and museums offer ample opportunities for networking and team building. 

Miami, Florida

   Miami's vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and numerous luxury hotels make it a popular destination for corporate events. The Miami Beach Convention Center and the city's year-round pleasant weather are major draws.

Austin, Texas

   Known for its live music scene and tech industry presence, Austin has become a hotspot for corporate meetings. The city offers a mix of conference facilities and unique event spaces, often paired with a dose of Texan hospitality. 

Nashville, Tennessee

   Nashville's southern charm and thriving music industry provide an enticing backdrop for meetings. The Music City Center, along with its hotels and restaurants, makes it an excellent choice for corporate gatherings. Most of the hot venues and hotels are walkable within the Broadway area. 

Denver, Colorado

    Denver's Rocky Mountain backdrop and outdoor recreational opportunities set the stage for productive and memorable meetings. The Colorado Convention Center and the city's commitment to sustainability make it a popular destination for green-minded businesses. 

These top 10 US destinations offer a mix of business-friendly infrastructure, entertainment options, and cultural experiences to make your meetings a success. When choosing the right location for your next corporate event, consider the specific needs of your attendees and the atmosphere you want to create, and you're sure to find the perfect destination among these diverse options. 

We're the experts in guiding you to the right location. Contact us and we'll work with you to pick the perfect spot. 

Earlier this year, our CEO Richard Williams was one of 12 international judges of the prestigious C&IT Americas Awards. It was under the most unusual circumstances in the awards’ history. Thanks to COVID-19, next year’s honors will also be different, but essential, he says. 

Why are event industry awards like C&IT so important? 

Humans need recognition. It’s part of our DNA. We want to see what our peers consider the best. Awards are a way of hearing applause that your sweat and tears were worth it.  They are one of the best non-monetary ways of helping us feel good about our work product. And they help us strive to always do better. 

Should there be a 2021 Awards? 

Absolutely. Awards programs, like C&IT Americas, help us have hope again and challenge us. With everything that has gone on in 2020, I think the focus for next year should also evolve. New categories that make sense include:

    The most interesting hybrid or virtual show;
    The most innovation solution to revitalizing the industry;
    The most effective pivot from live to virtual or hybrid.

What is your message for the future of our industry? 

It’s brighter than ever. These awards tell us what we can do again when the time is right. The pent-up demand among clients, employees, and the whole world is palpable. The eagerness to meet again in places near and far has never been stronger. I see signs of the recovery every day. Small signs yet steady signs that thigs are getting better.   

As an industry, it is our job to be ready with new ideas and technologies, all while doing it safely and wisely. It may be different, a little more tentative at first, but the world is super charged to return to great experiences built around meetings, events, and incentives. 

Since the pandemic, American Guest has been expanding its digital footprint by creating next-level events with The Knowledge Exchange and the webcast Mission: Critical. With companies such as Microsoft using our technological format, it is no wonder we’re proud of these achievements. Our President John Williams recently spoke to Motivate to discuss the new platform and how the company is helping clients produce successful digital and hybrid events. Read the full interview here.

With the exciting world of virtual-live-hybrid meetings & events in its infancy, American Guest has taken the lead by co-producing the “Mission Critical” series as part of #savethemeetings. The first “Mission Critical” episode on June 29, 2020, took in 5,000 total views between live audiences and on-demand streaming. It included live and virtual sessions from Live Nation, MGM Resorts, NAACP, National Retail Federation and S&P Global.

The July 29th telecast will be live from 10 locations in the US and Canada to showcase the endless possibilities of a virtual-live-hybrid event. Programming will include:

• Live segments from both Nashville to Manhattan’s newest event site in Hudson Yards
• Live, Musical Entertainment from Grammy award-winning recording artist John Rich
• Keynote speakers from SAP, RBC Capital Markets, and Yale University
• Keynote segment with Microsoft’s Bob Bejan, Corporate Vice President, Global Events, Production Studios, and Community Management

GrubHub has partnered with “Mission Critical” to give away 1,000 free lunches for the July 29th event to support local restaurants.

More information can be found at http://savethemeetings.org/missioncritical.

Photo credit: Washington.org

If you’re looking for the perfect time of year to host your next event in the US, you’re in luck. There’s no off-season. From desert wildlife safaris to urban food truck tours, unique experiences in any month are plentiful across America.

Our president John Williams explains, “We have 50 diverse states that welcome all languages, cultures and desired experiences. There are thousands of ways to have fun.”

He adds, “Because the meetings and incentives industry continues its rapid growth, so does demand for more creative ideas year round,” Here’s a roundup of seasonal selections to start planning.

Spring Flings

Cherry blossom season is synonymous with springtime in Washington, DC, where history comes alive. Starting in March, Charleston’s Southern charm is in full bloom, creating a postcard backdrop to explore its iconic architecture, rich history and gracious hospitality. Post Mardi Gras and pre-summer is a delightful time to hit New Orleans, with its timeless blend of world-famous cuisine, lively festivals, and mild weather. The great outdoors are the lure of sunny Tucson and Scottsdale, Arizona, where cool mountains and warm deserts offer plenty of group diversions.

Summer Standouts

Photo credit: Noah Wetzel, Steamboat Springs Chamber

Take advantage of the long days of summer from coast to coast. From the dude ranches of Wyoming and Yosemite, Montana, to the social scene of the Hamptons and Long Island’s North Fork, the options heat up from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Don’t overlook Colorado’s spectacular mountain towns. In Steamboat Springs, CO, the Wild West is alive with its annual Hot Air Balloon Rodeo. While white water rafting, kayaking and hiking offer group thrills in beautiful Aspen, CO. For city standouts, Chicago and Milwaukee, host fun events all summer long.

Autumn Adventures

Photo credit: Kyle Klein

With dozens of food, music and arts festivals every fall, Austin, Texas is a natural draw. Get out on the water in scenic Seattle, to explore the nearby islands by day and feast on the Waterfront’s freshest seafood at night. Fall foliage is a great time to discover New York’s historic Hudson Valley, a hidden gem of rolling hills, wineries, breweries, and orchards. From the Freedom Trail to the Samuel Adams Brewery, Boston’s rich heritage is even more vibrant in fall colors.

Winter Escapes

You can still do it all in winter. Take advantage of seasonal price dips in New York City, while still enjoying all of The Big Apple’s dazzling food and entertainment. To escape the chill, Hawaii’s Big Island and nearby Maui offer the ultimate tropical paradise. Temperate San Francisco is a crowd-pleaser year-round, but in winter months add whale watching to your list. And San Diego always pleases with it near perfect weather and outdoor living.

Need more suggestions? We’re always checking out new places to keep your next meeting fresh.

Get in touch

]]> http://www.americanguest.com/es/ag-insider/the-best-season-to-host-your-next-us-event/ urn:blogs:1266679824 Mon, 02 Mar 2020 15:45:00 -0500 We’re always looking for the best new venues to make your events stand out. This summer, New York City’s largest private event space, The Glasshouse, opens in Chelsea. It’s already impressed us with breathtaking views, cutting-edge technology and plenty of modern amenities.The new flagship location will have 75,000 square feet of premiere event space, including outdoor terraces and sweeping views of the Hudson River and glittering skyline. Sleek interiors, VIP lounges and multiple kitchens add to its appeal for customized events from small corporate functions to large-scale social events for up to 1,850 guests. Bookings are being accepted for Fall 2020.Its more intimate sister property, Glasshouse Chelsea, is nearby and ideal for up to 200 guests. It also shares spectacular floor-to-ceiling views of the city and waterfront. To learn more about The Glasshouses NYC for your next unforgettable event, please get in touch.Let’s plan

We’re always looking for the best new venues to make your events stand out. This summer, New York City’s largest private event space, The Glasshouse, opens in Chelsea. It’s already impressed us with breathtaking views, cutting-edge technology and plenty of modern amenities.

The new flagship location will have 75,000 square feet of premiere event space, including outdoor terraces and sweeping views of the Hudson River and glittering skyline. Sleek interiors, VIP lounges and multiple kitchens add to its appeal for customized events from small corporate functions to large-scale social events for up to 1,850 guests. Bookings are being accepted for Fall 2020.

Its more intimate sister property, Glasshouse Chelsea, is nearby and ideal for up to 200 guests. It also shares spectacular floor-to-ceiling views of the city and waterfront.

To learn more about The Glasshouses NYC for your next unforgettable event, please get in touch.

Let’s plan

How many times have you gotten event proposals that take forever to piece together? With American Guest, our proposals bring your vision to life with one easy click.

The difference is in our cloud-based technology and content management solution. Clients love how visual and simple it is to use. We translate your request into a multimedia presentation full of custom content, video, photos, music, and maps to give you a crystal-clear picture of your event options, costing and details. Everything you need lives on a private portal that only you can access. Modifications and revisions are live. Your team has 24/7 access to the latest content via phone, laptop or tablet anywhere in the world.

Try us out and see the American Guest difference.

Let’s plan

We’re often asked what sets us apart as corporate event and incentives architects. The short answer is our family reputation. Doing what is right is the driving force in our family and it’s the same in our company. It was just months after 9/11 when the world was in turmoil that my father Richard and I started American Guest in 2002.  Our goal was to build a company that we would always be proud of and one we would want to hire.

Here are some favorite questions we get asked:

Why did you call the business American Guest?

JW: We love the brand because it implies the American hospitality, ‘can do’ spirit, which was paramount to us. Prior to launching the firm, we spent years in service and hospitality, and we understood what true hospitality means.

RW: We strive for clients to feel like our guests. With the inbound client, we want to represent all of the Americas – the US, Canada, and Mexico. And for the outbound client, it is the American Guest, our clients, traveling overseas.

How do you work together?

JW: We have natural synergy and, of course, great trust. Richard is the creative visionary and storyteller. I translate the dream, manage the client relationships and directly oversee event execution. Even as a five-year-old, I knew I wanted to work with my father. It shows in my first-grade artwork on my office wall.

What are the advantages of having a family run business as event and incentives planners?

RW: We consider clients like family and deliver a level of passion and dedication that rivals any competition. The culture to perform, excite, and to please is ingrained in our DNA. For American Guest everything is personal.

What cities are your favorite hidden gems to host a corporate event?

RW: I’m a big fan of cities that retain much of their local character. Cities like Nashville and Austin, already at or near top tier requested destinations. Milwaukee is fantastic with its one-of-a-kind “winged” Milwaukee Art Museum and the Harley-Davidson Museum, all while offering great value. The Florida Keys, the cowboy/ski town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and Healdsburg wine country in Northern California are unique and worth considering.

What is the secret to your success?

JW: Taking ownership, staying focused, and learning to listen to what the business is telling you. Being able to pivot is key to long-term success.

RW: Having a global approach to client service. Investing in an incredible multinational, multilingual team. We all share a tenacity to find a solution, create an opportunity where a ‘no’ is never final when filling a client’s needs.

      -- John Williams, President

Speak with Richard + John

How do you transform an OK event into a WOW occasion? It’s the first question we should always ask ourselves as planners. The secret is in creating emotion.

Think of the saying, “People don’t remember what you say; they remember how you made them feel.” It’s true for events too. The best ones leave guests feeling special. It is an important opportunity to strengthen your brand equity too. When planning your next event, consider these pointers:

Stimulate the Senses

Get creative by including elements that tap into all five senses: see, hear, smell, touch, taste. A sensory connection makes a lasting impression.

Spark Joy

Are you filling the room with joy? Is there anticipation leading up to the event? Are there elements of surprise? Do you share photos or video of the event with your guests afterwards?

Hire Professionals

Designing a WOW event takes experience. Many moving parts must come together at the last moment. An expert will run the show and ensure the WOW factor is appropriate for the audience too.

Spend Some Money…Wisely

Consider your event an investment in your brand. Why host an event if you’re not ready to make a WOW impression? Trust a reputable firm to ensure your budget is spent wisely.

Consider Unconventional Venues

Be open to unorthodox locations and venues for those Instagrammable moments. You’ll be surprised what can be created and the welcome feedback you’ll receive.

Add a Conversation Starter

Whether it’s a doughnut wall or VR immersion, include something unexpected that gets people giddy with excitement.

Ready to WOW?

Let’s chat