2024 Event Planner's Guide

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Meeting Planner FAQs Q:WHAT GROUP SIZE CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE? A: The largest meeting space in Greater Portland is just over 35,000 sq ft. There is a combined available square footage of 155,000 sq ft from venues in downtown Portland. Q:CAN YOU HELP MARKET & BUILD ATTENDANCE? A: Yes! We are happy to help market your event. We can post your meeting’s details to our Events Calendar and use our social media channels to help promote it. Additionally, we provide our printed marketing materials, high resolution destination images, and promotional videos. Q:DO YOU HAVE GIFT BAGS WITH LOCAL PRODUCTS? A: Our team can provide your guests with complimentary visitor guides. We are also happy to connect you with local makers that will work with you to craft Maine-made gifts for your swag bag. Q:WHEN IS PEAK SEASON? A: June-October is considered peak season for the Greater Portland region. For a more budget-friendly meeting, consider our region during the winter and shoulder seasons. (Nov/Dec & Apr/May) Our city is a vibrant meetings and events destination, year-round! Q:WHERE CAN I HAVE A LOBSTER BAKE? A: There are several ways you can host your own lobster bake for your group. You can bring in a local caterer to one of our unique venues, dine at one of Portland’s mouth-watering restaurants, or even take a scenic cruise on Casco Bay as you crack into those lobsters.

Q:DO I NEED A MEETING PLANNER? A: Our sales team can act as your local liaison while planning your event at no cost to you. From choosing the ideal venue to assisting with vendor referrals, our goal is to provide you with services to make your meeting a success. Q: WHAT MAKES MAINE SO MEMORABLE FOR ATTENDEES? A: Maine is a bucket list destination for people from all over the country—when they can travel here as part of a business or social event, they are usually determined to return again and again. And, of course, the sweetest, most flavorful lob ster, hand-caught by local fishermen, is one of Maine’s most sought-after delicacies so you can make your meeting more memorable by including an authentic lobster bake or putting it on a banquet menu. A: Portland’s reputation as a foodie destination derives in part from the sheer number of high-quality restaurants in the area; the trouble will be in choosing where to dine from the many options! And in Portland, the cultural capital of northern New England, historic sites and visual/performance arts abound. Lots of outdoor adventures also await, both in town and at nearby lakes and mountains. Q: ARE THERE ENOUGH RESTAURANTS & ACTIVITIES TO ENTERTAIN ATTENDEES?

PHOTOS FROM LEFT: Rachel Epperly / Maine Craft Distilling; Amy Tolk

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