Convention Insider (Conventions.net)

For those of us wondering how the environment impacts us in the convention and meeting industry or how catastrophes or other problems change how we do business, we only have to look at the recent oil spill crisis in the Gulf of Mexico.  We have written about the terrible situation with the flood in Nashville and how it impacted the folks at Gaylord Hotels.

Meetingsnet.com talks about how the spill is leading to cancellations in the Meeting Industry.

A May 18 survey of 50 hotels across the Gulf Coast that host meetings and events found that 42 percent are experiencing group booking cancellations, the report says.

I don’t think that we are going to see a big problem in the Gulf States as it relates to meetings, or conventions or other things that are impacted in that area by things like golf coast hurricanes or other weather issues.  I like how the report states that in some cases bookings for hotels and other facilities are on the rise because they are housing the peripheral industries like emergency people, media and others.  So far the spill is not making much of an impact, but if you have a meeting, a convention or trade show in the gulf coast states, it might be a good idea to reach out to your facility to see if there is any impact.  If you are marketing your event as a beach front or other outdoor ocean view or gulf coast outing, you should make sure you have your own disaster preparedness.

[photo via Yahoo News and AP]

There are two conference centers at Louisiana’s Wildwood Resort, so no matter what the size of your convention/trade show/retreat/conference, this venue can accommodate you easily and well.

There are superb facilities here – anything and everything your speakers, organizers, and attendees could possibly need, from food and furniture to wifi and electronics.

This venue is also a hotel, so your attendees can stay on-site.  I think this is always the best way.

At the resort’s W.J. Brown Conference Center, your large conference will be housed in surroundings that look like a grand old country lodge.  Don’t be fooled, however; the amenities are as modern as can be found anywhere in the world.

If you are planning a smaller conference, the Junior Conference Center can accommodate smaller groups of up to 50 attendees: perfect for corporate events or retreats, special occasions, or just simply a smaller convention.

After the day’s meetings and seminars are over, your attendees can take advantage of the fantastic fishing, swimming, golf, or just simply relaxing and taking in the beautiful scenery.

Oh, and if you want your conference to be catered, this venue can offer your attendees a little bit of everything, from a fish fry to an elegant prime rib dinner.

WILDWOOD RESORT
129 WILDWOOD DRIVE
ZWOLLE, LOUISIANA 71486
(800) 341-3668
(800) 450-5103
www.wildwood-resort.com

And, at the end of the day, your attendees will find that their beds are fantastic in every possible way.