New and innovative venues are the latest trend for event planning in 2019: As the hospitality industry evolves to accommodate new consumer preferences for experiences over things, unconventional meetings and conference spaces are quickly becoming a draw for millennial-driven companies.

The new best practices for event venues center on creating memorable experiences – the bland, beige-colored ballroom just isn’t cutting it anymore. The hospitality industry is changing to cater to millennial innovation and creativity, integrating new technology and fresh design ideas, and alternative meeting spaces are next in line for venues looking to attract event planners.

Why is alternative meeting space valuable to local planners right now?

It’s no secret that demand is on the rise for unique spaces to host events and conferences. According to AMEX Global Meeting Forecast, nontraditional venue space grew by 4% in 2017 and 3.8% in 2018, with no expectation of slowing down.

Companies and brands recognize that special venues leave an impression on attendees. It’s not enough for a facility to have adequate space and amenities – today’s event planners want a creative, impactful atmosphere that makes their event unforgettable.

From organic farmers’ markets to artisan craftsman and small business support, there is a cultural shift away from faceless mass-marketing towards local flavor. Whether it’s intimate rooftop bars, historic concert venues, or outdoor arenas, the public wants to engage with the local economy and culture.

Successful venues that are breaking the mold

In a sea of options available for today’s conference planners, there are a few stand-outs that showcase this trend. Meetings don’t have to be boring, and these unusual venues prove it:

1. U.S. National Whitewater Center

This incredible facility sits on 1,300 acres near Charlotte, NC and offers a robust conference center equipped for large-scale meetings and events. Guests can enjoy thrilling whitewater rafting, zip lines, climbing, kayaking, and much more.

The U.S. National Whitewater Center has had success in attracting organizations and corporate meetings with their engaging team development experiences: yoga retreats, riverside concerts, group rafting, and more. Event planners can get the most out of their events by combining work, play, and team-building into one cohesive event experience.

Whitewater partners with several local hotels, giving each location the best of both worlds – access to luxury hotel comfort and all the fun and excitement of a world-class event and sporting venue.

2. Top golf

Corporate match play gets a modern update with Top Golf’s distinctly non-corporate environment. Players hit digitally tracked golf balls that provide feedback on accuracy and distance and earn corresponding points. It’s low-key yet competitive, and a great way to kick back and have some fun with your coworkers or team.

The beauty of the Top Golf system is that it presents a fun challenge for experienced players and total novices alike. It’s fun for everyone, and the venue rental includes the game, food, drinks, and even staff to help run the event.

It’s fun, it’s memorable, and it’s an easy way for company event planners to level up the annual retreat.

3. Field Museum

Outdoor activities aren’t for everyone, and there is no shortage of quirky and unique venues for the gatherings that require a little extra sophistication. The Field Museum in Chicago has rental facilities that accommodate a variety of workshops, industry conferences, and everything in between.

From the impressive James Simpson Theatre to the modest classroom space, the museum caters to events of all sizes. Moreover, the best part? Admission to the exhibitions is included for event attendees, so guests can view the world-class museum when not in session. Wouldn’t you rather get outside the bland boardroom and take a break walking through some of the world’s best natural history exhibitions?

Hotels can capitalize on the trend towards innovative meeting space

Hotels can cater to event planners by cultivating spaces that are bold, fresh, and outside the box. Even solutions as simple as implementing biophilic design or crafting an aesthetic that connects your guests to local culture can give your hotel the flair that’s trending in meeting spaces today.

If you’re ready to dive into the possibilities that mindful design can bring to your property, we’re here to help. We can help you source furniture and finishing to deliver the perfect guest experience.

At Beachwood Custom, we scour the world for the best custom furniture and finishes so you can offer your guests the best possible experience. Contact us today to see how we can help you design your perfect hotel property!