- Red Carpet Welcome: Let the CVB bring out their best and most honored dignitaries to welcome your attendees to their town.
- Onsite “Insiders”: Let the CVB host help with registration. Their staff and volunteers are usually local community members who are not only interested and involved in the city, they actually “want” to be there doing what they’re doing-helping you and your attendees have the best time possible!
- Hidden Gems: It’s always a good idea to refer to the professionals and in this case the “locals”. Find out from the people who live and work in the city what the “can’t miss” things to do and places to see are. The Quad Cities CVB plans these sorts of special events for groups all the time, “We have secured tours, arranged multiple field trips, picnics at the ballpark, square dancing amongst John Deere Tractors, gallery hops, concert discounts, meetings on a riverboat, just to name a few unique experiences that have made the event shine,” Lynn Hunt, Vice President, Sales Quad Cities CVB.
- Rock star entertainment: It’s generally easier to find some local talent for your event than to bring everyone in from across the country. Most cities have some great local and/or regional entertainment options. Check out the local scene to see how you can incorporate a flavor from the community, while helping you save on travel expenses.
- Social Advocate: Do some good! CVBs can help you find some local groups and organizations to help you create a successful and fun fundraiser to reach your goals both socially and financially. In Michigan the Ann Arbor CVB worked with the United Association on a charity event to raise money for the Semper Fi Fund during their annual training event. They connected them with the right people in the community to coordinate the event that featured a 5K and a Pub Crawl. They helped to publicize and staff the event that resulted in raising $27,000.00.
- Discounts: The CVB staff has established relationships with its local partners and can coordinate discounts for your guests. Many times they can include coupons and other promotional materials for your registration packets.
- Multimedia Genius: CVBs have stepped up to the plate in terms of online support, whether it’s material and links for your website or creating special microsites.
- Local staffing: Talk to your CVB about using their volunteers from registration help to tour guides, airport greeters, etc.
- Presenting: Bring the CVB in from the start. Many will help you present their city in person to your group and are the perfect folks to answer questions about why the city is a good fit for your event.
- Promotion: Have the CVB attend your conference the year before their city hosts. It’s a great way for them to get your attendees excited about their city and more importantly your event.
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