.png)
Do you know what is on your client's wish lists this holiday season? Staying up to date with current meeting trends is essential for planners and hoteliers, so we've tapped Brittany Norton, director of sales at Hawks Cay Resort, for insights into hot trends in holiday event planning and beyond from her enviable position in the Florida Keys.
Top Five Meeting Planning Trends
1. Sustainable Celebrations
Sustainability is a growing concern, and this trend has made its way into meeting planning for the holidays and beyond. Planners are increasingly focused on eco-friendly options, such as reducing waste, using reusable decor, and promoting local and sustainable products. This trend not only benefits the environment but also appeals to consumers who are conscious of their environmental footprint.
For example, at Hawks Cay Resort we implement sustainable practices by focusing on sourcing local, eco-friendly products for group holiday events. This could include using reusable water-bottles as an amenity upon arrival and can be used throughout their stay, as well as local menu fare, and educating guests about local conservation efforts and marine life protection, which are important aspects of the Florida Keys' ecosystem.
2. Personalization and Customization
People are looking for unique and personalized experiences. Holiday planners are incorporating customization options, whether it's personalized gift packages, tailored event themes, or individualized holiday menus. This trend enhances the sense of exclusivity and connection with attendees.
Your hotel or resort can offer personalized holiday packages for groups/guests, allowing them to choose specific activities, dining options, or decor themes to suit their preferences.
3. Virtual and Hybrid Events
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual events. While in-person gatherings are making a comeback, planners are still incorporating virtual elements to cater to a broader audience. For those unable to attend in person, hotels and resorts can offer an option to livestream holiday events, offering virtual access to their celebrations. This could include live cooking demonstrations, virtual tours of the resort, or interactive games and activities for remote attendees. By incorporating hybrid elements, the resort can reach a broader audience and ensure that those who can't be on-site can still partake in the holiday festivities.
4. Wellness and Self-Care Experiences
Holiday events are increasingly incorporating wellness and self-care elements. This trend involves offering activities like yoga and meditation sessions, wellness workshops, spa treatments, and healthy dining options. These additions cater to guests looking to relax and rejuvenate during the holiday season.
Does your property offer range of wellness and self-care experiences for guests during the holidays? Some ideas of options include: yoga and meditation sessions, spa packages with specialized holiday-themed treatments, group fitness classes, and wellness workshops focusing on stress management and healthy living. Healthy dining options could be integrated into holiday menus, promoting well-being for guests looking to relax and rejuvenate during their stay.
5. Inclusive Celebrations
Inclusivity is a growing trend in holiday planning. Planners are making efforts to create events that are welcoming to people of all backgrounds and beliefs. This could involve celebrating a diverse range of holidays, offering inclusive menus, and incorporating activities that appeal to a broad audience.
At Hawks Cay Resort, we celebrate a range of holidays and traditions, making our events inclusive and appealing to diverse audiences. This might include hosting holiday events that honor different cultural celebrations and décor, as well as offering diverse menus to cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions.
It's essential for holiday planners to adapt to these trends while keeping their target audience in mind. Staying flexible and open to new ideas is key to creating successful and memorable holiday events.
Brittany Norton, is Director of Sales at Hawks Cay Resort. With more than a decade of experience in the Florida Keys, Brittany is the creative mind behind experiences at Hawks Kay, ensuring they offer the quintessential Keys vibe while adapting to individual preferences and industry advancements. Recently, she spearheaded the new the Pilar Bar, a Hemingway-inspired bar in partnership with Papa’s Pilar Rum, and next year they will be launching a new marina experience.