Going to IMEX Vegas? Meet our DMC partners and vendors who will be there with us at our booth - D3617! 🎉Don't see the partner you want to meet with or the location you're interested in for your next event? Book your appointment with us anyway as we have many more partners we can connect you with...appointments open on Monday the 9th!
Book your appointment: https://imexamerica.com/newfront/exhibitor/40628
Activ'Travel Morocco | BBC Events, a Global DMC Partner | Chicago Is..., Inc. | Conventus SA | CTI - Italian Incentives & Events | Destination Concepts inc | Destination Fabulous | DMC Nordic | E5 Events | Emotionstore | Florida Meeting Services | HL Adventure - DMC Iceland | Horizon Travel - DMC & Events | Ikebana | IMS Vienna Budapest Prague | INNOVATX EVENTS | maximize events group | Palomino Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. | Pure Arabia Incentives, Conferences & Events LLC | Rare Indigo Destination Management | Solar Tours & Travel St Lucia Inc | Tahiti Expert DMC | TAM Travel Corporation | The DMC Southern Africa | Tropical Incentives DMC | Universal Travel Services | Weichleinn | Yesimo
#IMEXVegas #EventProfs #IMEX24 #DMCPartners
What insights do planners get from GDP at Connection? Here's what Chris King from Focus Incentives shared during his interview with Matthew Byrne:
"For me, it's the realization that GDP is more than just DMCs. There's a whole ecosystem of suppliers and industry support that GDP connects you with."
This is one of the many things that makes Connection so powerful! Want to attend next year or learn more about some of these other resources we can provide that Chris is referring to? DM us 😉
Listen to all upcoming podcasts: https://productionvaluematters.com/
#GDPConnection #eventprofs #Incentives
Missing the Olympics already? Don’t worry, we’ve got something to look forward to! Salt Lake City has been chosen to host the 2034 Winter Olympic Games! 🏅While 2034 is still a ways away, our partner, Offsite Utah is ready to elevate your event experience right now! Whether it's spring, summer, fall, or winter, they're the perfect partner to help you plan unforgettable events anytime of the year.#WinterOlympics #SaltLakeCity2034 #eventprofs
During Connection 2024, Paolo Teruzzi from CTI Corporate Travel & Incentives, our Italian partners, shared his thoughts on lesser-known destinations in Italy:
"We we don't call it Plan B, we call them alternatives...The region of Emilia-Romagna. That's where you have the Pavarotti house, Ferrari, Ducati, Maranello, and the capital of the ice cream."
Had you thought of this region for your next incentive travel? Full episode coming out soon👉 https://productionvaluematters.com/
#GDPConnection #eventprofs #Italy #IncentiveTravel
Today is National Accessible Air Travel Day – a day to highlight the challenges faced by people in wheelchairs when flying and advocate for more accessible air travel.
Many wheelchair users struggle with the lack of proper accommodations on planes. Transferring from a wheelchair to a plane seat is physically taxing, and wheelchairs often suffer damage during loading and unloading, leading to costly repairs. This makes air travel a daunting experience for many.
All Wheels Up is a nonprofit dedicated to making air travel safer and more dignified for wheelchair users. Let's support their mission to create inclusive travel for everyone - head over to this link>>> https://www.allwheelsup.org/
#AccessibleAirTravel #AllWheelsUp #eventprofs
The global AI market for the events sector is set to soar to $1.8 billion this year. AI is transforming how we manage events by evaluating participant data, forecasting preferences, automating tasks, and more. Imagine tailored agendas, quick responses, language translations, and even avatars as MCs or keynote speakers!
🚀 Want to learn more? Visit GDP U at the link in our bio for the full recorded session and additional exclusive content!
#eventprofs #generativeai #webinar
During her interview at Connection 2024, Nathalie Saikaly from Dell Technologies shared how they decide which new technologies to incorporate into their events:
"We are always on the lookout to elevate and advance the attendee journey and experience. Aside from what the food and venue look like, it's about adding intentional elements. It starts with the agenda, incorporating gamification, connecting attendees with experts, and choosing impactful locations. It's a mix of things."
Stay tuned for the full episode featuring Nathalie, coming out next week on the Production Value Matters Podcast 😉
#GDPConnection #eventprofs #EventPlanning
In our latest webinar, we explored program trends with a significant focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). We emphasized increasing diversity at the panel and speaker levels and integrating more accessibility features using AI, such as closed captioning for different languages and those with hearing challenges. We discussed creating balanced and inclusive agendas that foster collective belonging and actively engaging people with disabilities and diverse backgrounds.
Want to learn more about current industry trends? Head over to our link in bio to access GDP U resources!
#eventprofs #eventplanning #webinar
During her interview with Matthew Byrne at Connection, Catherine Chaulet, our CEO and President, shared how AI is revolutionizing event planning and management:
"We are committed to helping meeting planners identify useful AI tools, creating educational components to demystify AI, and showing practical ways these tools can save time and boost productivity."
Stay tuned for more insights from Connection and join us next year to experience it yourself! 😉
The full podcast episode will be available this week on Byrne Production Services podcast.
#GDPConnection #eventprofs #AI #EventPlanning
Have you heard of Geoplanting? During our “Sustainable Event Planning & Ideas from Around the World” webinar, our President of Operations, Stacy Tischler, shared insights into this innovative and sustainable activity introduced to us by our partners in Malta, AGL. Here’s what makes Geoplanting a unique addition to any event:
🌱 Geoplanting Explained: It’s planting trees with a twist! Geoplanting combines the environmental benefits of reforestation with the excitement of a treasure hunt.
Participants embark on a scavenger hunt, using clues and specific equipment provided to find the right spots to plant trees. This activity not only helps the environment but also ensures a fun and engaging experience, complete with a healthy hike in nature.
🌿 Why It Matters: Geoplanting is a fantastic way to engage attendees, promote teamwork, and contribute positively to our planet’s ecosystem.
Interested in learning more sustainable ideas for your next event? Visit our courses page (after logging in or registering) to get full access to the recorded session and additional materials 👉🏽 GDP U link in bio!
#eventprofs #webinar #eventplanning #meetings
Here's another snippet from the interviews conducted during Connection 2024 - featuring Megan Griggs from Intellectual Property Owners. Here she talks about the invaluable benefits of attending Connection:
"I want to point that out that there's a lot of takeaways from the education sessions. But I think the most important thing are the connections that you make with other planners, that you make with suppliers, and all of the vendors."
Want to attend Connection next year? Connect with one of our sales people of DM us for more info 😉
#GDPConnection #eventprofs
🌍 We’re back with more sustainable event ideas from our DMCs, which we dove deep into during our recent webinar, “Sustainable Event Planning & Ideas from Around the World.” Our partners, Destination Concepts in California and Ikebana in France and Monaco, shared some fantastic ideas for sustainable gifting:
Sustainable Gifts: Consider eco-friendly options like canvas totes, reusable bottles, and scrubs. For non-tangible gifts, adopt a coral or a tree for your attendees!
Want to learn more ideas, gain access to invaluable materials, and watch this entire recorded webinar and many more? Head over to our link in bio!
#sustainability #eventprofs #gdpu
We had the pleasure of featuring Tom Edelen from Thrivent on our Connection 2024 panel about sustainability and the positive impact that our industry can have on local communities. In his interview with Matthew Byrne from Production Value Matters: The Business Events Podcast, Tom discusses an innovative approach to CSR and incentive programs:
“10 years ago, I helped start a program where we do service first, then a little incentive at the end.”
Had you thought of doing incentives like this before?
Stay tuned for more insights!
#GDPConnection #eventprofs #CSR #IncentiveTravel
Want a sneak peek into what Connection is? Take a look at this year’s video recap! Our annual event is more than just a fun place to be at - it is a hub for learning, networking, and innovation. Every year, we connect industry experts, DMCs, and clients from all around the globe to learn from each other and make lasting connections.
This year, Tropical Incentives and Conrad Punta de Mita were our co-hosts and the event was absolute perfection thanks to them and all of our amazing sponsors:
A/V: Encore Mexico
Badges & bracelets: Colors for Good
Event registration platform: Swoogo
Event tech management & onsite logistics: BW Events Tech
Event app: Amego
Closed captioning: Interprefy
Career Coaching: Soundings
Local hotel sponsors: Four Seasons, Marriott Resort, Westin Puerto Vallarta, W Punta de Mita, Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta, Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun, Sheraton Buganvilias, Matices Hotel De Barricas
Strategic event partners: Byrne Production, Silversea
#GDPConnection #eventprofs #eventplanning #EvntosQueTransforman #EncoreMexico
After Connection 2024, the GDP team had the opportunity to learn about two more amazing group destinations in Mexico: Puerto Vallarta and Mexico City.
The team had a quick visit of Puerto Vallarta to see the main areas and hotels for groups before hopping on a plane to Mexico City!
The capital was impressive, offering a lively atmosphere both day and night, with plenty of museums, restaurants, and activities suitable for groups of all sizes. There are many hotels, including the W Hotel, Four Seasons, and Fiesta Americana, which can accommodate various group needs.
One of the highlights was experiencing “Luchas Libres” (Mexican wrestling). We enjoyed snacks and drinks while watching the thrilling show, an perfect activity to immerse groups in the culture in a fun and exciting way!
Our trip also included a visit to Xochimilco, where we enjoyed a boat ride on a “trajinera.” We were serenaded by mariachis, served authentic Mexican food, and shared quality time together.
Among the remarkable dining experiences, Arango Restaurant in Reforma stood out. The service was impeccable, the food was outstanding, and the view was breathtaking.
A big thank you to Tropical Incentives for organizing this memorable FAM trip in the heart of Mexico!
If you’re looking for a place to host your next meeting, Puerto Vallarta and Mexico City are fantastic options! Let us know, and we can connect you with the right person.
#GDPConnection #evetnprofs #mexico
Guess what? The cat is out of the bag! The Connection 2025 destination was revealed a few weeks ago at the end of our 2024 event and we had attendees on the edge of their seat as they watched this announcement video live. Think you can pick up on any of these clues and guess where Connection 2025 is taking place?
That's right! Next stop: The Bahamas! 🏝️☀️ Get ready for sun, sand, and another round of amazing networking and learning experiences.
A huge thank you to Sunbound and Grand Hyatt Baha Mar for hosting us next June.
#GDPConnection #eventprofs
During our GDP U webinar, “Sustainable Event Planning & Ideas from Around the World,” we explored how to integrate sustainability into events. One highlight was a creative idea from our Brazilian partner, Havas, who shared their Carnival Experience at Pimpolhos da Grande Rio Samba School in Rio de Janeiro.
Last year, they organized a unique team-building and CSR activity for an incentive group from the USA. They visited the Pimpolhos warehouse, where part of the group painted the warehouse while others helped sew carnival costumes. This experience not only fostered teamwork but also supported the local community.
Head over to our GDP U page at our link in bio to watch the whole recorded session, gain access to more content, and to register for our upcoming webinar on June 27th!
#SustainableEvents #GDPUniveristy #eventprofs #CSR #TeamBuilding
We had our top-rated session “Decoding 2024 Global Business and Travel Trends: Insight for Savvy Planners” during Connection...Missed it? Don’t worry!
Join our webinar on June 27th at 12:00pm ET to catch up on all the insights and strategies! Our CEO, Catherine Chaulet, will share the latest developments shaping the MICE industry, economy, and travel landscape. Topics include the current geopolitical climate, inflation, airline & hotel trends, sustainability, Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DEI), generative A.I., and destination trends.
Register at the link in our bio!
#webinar #eventprofs
This year, during Connection 2024, we took a leap forward in integrating CSR and sustainability into our event, making a significant impact not just on our attendees, but also on the community. In case you missed our event, here’s a snapshot of the initiatives we embraced:
- Panel Discussions: Our session, “Unleashing the Power of Giving Back,” featured ideas from local organizations and one of our clients on meaningful sustainability and CSR initiatives. Leaders and experts shared their visions and practical strategies for creating an impactful change.
- Eco-Friendly Dining Decor: At our dinner at Mina Restaurant, Tropical Incentives wowed everyone by using (reusable) fresh fruit as table centerpieces.
- Sustainable Gifts: Our event gift bags were made entirely from sustainable materials by a local organization. We also provided refillable water bottles, ensuring hydration without the waste! A special thanks to Colors for Good for providing eco-friendly event badges designed with reuse in mind—the badge straps double as chic sunglasses straps! Additionally, Colors for Good provides jobs to those in areas of greatest need.
- Community Engagement: One of our event highlights was our CSR activity, where we painted the local “Telesecundaria” school. We also donated essential school and art supplies, supporting the next generation of leaders. A heartfelt thank you to the principal and alumna student from Telesecundaria who shared how these efforts positively impact that school and its students.
Together, we’re not just planning events; we’re building a sustainable future.
#GDPConnection #Sustainability #CSR #eventprofs