Event Planner's Guide 2017

FREE SERVICES .

“

SMALL TOWN TAKEOVER Looking for a convention center in New England? While you won’t find one in Portland, Maine, do talk to our staff and learn how we accommodate groups of more than 500 by utilizing our Cross Insurance Arena and larger conference hotels, all within walking distance of each other, in the beautiful arts district. Portland’s compact downtown and closely interwoven neighborhoods ensure you are always near the action or your next meeting. Groups have the convenience of large, flexible space with in many distinctive offsite venue options to get your attendees out exploring the city and experiencing all that is unique to Southern Maine. Be a big fish in a small pond by bringing your convention to Portland! Small town, large hospitality. SEEING IS BELIEVING Interested in joining us on a Familiarization Tour? Check out visitportland.com/meetings/ plan-your-event/fam-tours to see the upcoming opportunities. We’d love to show you around! Not only did your assistance cut my work load in half, but each of your recommendations was a tremendous hit with our members and guests—I couldn’t have asked for a better experience!.” — Morgan Milner, Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial

At the Greater Portland Convention & Visitors Bureau, your meeting or event is of utmost importance to us and, together with our partners in the hospitality industry, we’ll work to make it one of the most pleasurable you’ll ever hold. Gather in Maine. Our goal is to provide you with the assistance you need to make your meeting in Maine well attended, successful and enjoyable. And our services are complimentary for planners; check out how we can help! AT THE PRE-BOOKING STAGE • Letters of Invitation • Overnight Accommodations & Function Space Availability • Bid Proposals & Assistance with Presentations • Site Inspections & Area Tours • Logistical Assistance (such as obtaining city or state permits) • Publicity/Promotional Materials

AT THE POST-BOOKING STAGE • Referrals to Convention Service Vendors • Itinerary & Program Ideas • Destination/Attendance Building Brochures • Delegate Gift Ideas • Visitor Guides and Maps for Attendees

Whatever your preference or budget, we can help you find the perfect facility in which to hold your meeting, convention, or event. Choose from sophisticated urban settings, elegant coastal resorts, rustic lakeside cabins, and charming bed and breakfasts. The listings and ads, which begin on page 34, highlight the amenities of our accommodations and function facilities. Our convention sales and service staff can provide more information to help you choose an event location. Small or large, your group will enjoy traditional New England hospitality, with extraordinary attention to your meeting’s details.

Photo on right: courtesy Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

2 CVB