IN THIS ISSUE

Tips from the Pros: Holiday Parties?

A hosted bar and all-you-can-eat shrimp at your event doesn't set the correct year-end tone while the economy is rebounding. Employees have been asked to do without, and deserve a reward-but a company throwing a lavish affair communicates the wrong...
Planning Primer: What's the Word?

If you're just starting out in the meetings and events industry, you may feel as if your caterer is speaking Greek. Columbia Tower Club's Jacques Bergeron helps decode some common catering terms.

A La Carte >> menu items...
Checklist: Under Contract

Believe it or not, there's a bright spot in this economy. Hotels need to fill those empty rooms, so, when planning your next event, be sure to reconsider the contract terms. Whether you're negotiating for a single event or multiple events over many...
Venue Report: Setting Sail

From meetings, parties, presentations, sales incentives, executive retreats and even product launches, companies large and small are turning to the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop for doing business. Nautical venues offer something different than the same...
Meet + Eat: Hot Stuff

Restaurants that have fireplaces and fire pits can be cozy and fun and lend themselves to a more relaxed atmosphere, giving employees, executives and clients a chance to get to know each other.

Tricia Cole recently booked a cocktail party for a...
Profile: The Big Picture

The San Diego Film Festival hit movie screens on September 23-27 and attracted 15,000 guests over its five-day run. Festival co-founder, executive director and primary planner Robin Laatz talks about the challenges and rewards of this annual endeavor...
Destination: Southern California

ORANGE COUNTY
Miles of spectacular coastline topped by sunny skies.
Carolyn Burns Bass

Orange County begins at the Pacific and stretches 30 miles inland where coastal breezes sweep through sundrenched hills....