When you’re planning a company business meeting or event, the attractions of big cities like New York, London, or even Paris are undeniable. These metro giants boast famous venues, big choices of amenities, and exciting atmospheres. But wait a minute! Consider this. Hosting your event in a smaller city or town can offer tremendous advantages that may not be at clear right away. Really? Absolutely! Let’s explore why opting for a less bustling locale might be a strategic and smart move for your next corporate gathering – for many more reasons than you might imagine!
Yes, Your First Thought – Cost Efficiency – Making That Budget Work Best
Of course, one of the biggest and most appealing reasons to consider a smaller city is the cost savings. Everything from venue rental to accommodations to dining to entertainment and attractions tends to be more affordable in smaller places. Lower costs mean you can divide your budget more effectively, investing in higher-quality services or more activities that otherwise would be a big “no way” in a larger city. This can be particularly beneficial for small to mid-sized companies looking to make the most of their event budget, and larger companies and groups to really reduce their cost per person. Second and third-tier cities are quite anxious to earn your business, and you’d be amazed at the savings they will offer, often far-surpassing what your stakeholders want, need, and expect for your group.
Personalized Service
In smaller cities, businesses often place a higher value on building strong customer relationships than in some larger cities. This can translate into a more personalized and attentive service for your event, which is especially what your V.I.P.s are used to. Local vendors and service providers are likely to go the extra mile to make sure your meeting or event is a success, as your business is a significant opportunity for them. This level of dedication can lead to a smoother, more enjoyable experience for all attendees from your rank-and-file to the company’s top-level executives.
Unique Venues and Experiences
While large cities offer a great number of conventional venues, smaller towns can give unique and memorable settings that add character to your event. Think historic buildings and sites, charming bed-and-breakfasts, scenic outdoor spaces and activities, or even amazing local cultural landmarks and attractions. These distinctive venues can create a more engaging and memorable experience for your attendees, setting your event apart from the typical corporate gathering. Attendees get to discover new and different things that they would not otherwise get to experience – and be happily surprised!
Less Distraction, More Focus
The hustle and bustle of a big city can sometimes be a double-edged sword. While the excitement can be invigorating, it can also serve as a distraction. In smaller towns and cities, the pace of life is generally slower, which can stimulate a more focused and productive environment. Attendees are less likely to be pulled away by the attractions of the nightlife or other big-city attractions, allowing them to concentrate more fully on the business at hand.
Community Engagement
Hosting an event in a smaller city can have a meaningful impact on the local community. Your business brings in revenue and can help boost the local economy, which is often more noticeable in a smaller town. Additionally, there may be chances for your company to work with the community through sponsorships, collaborations, or local initiatives. This can enhance your company’s reputation, build goodwill, promote and potentially even expand your business!
Ease of Logistics
Navigating a large city can be time-consuming and stressful, with traffic congestion and long travel times between venues. Smaller cities generally offer easier navigation and shorter commutes, reducing the logistical headaches part of transportation. This can lead to a more relaxed and efficient experience for both organizers and attendees. While a city’s availability of flights (airlift) is an important consideration, you just may be surprised where the airlines are going to these days – and YES, on the larger jet planes, and YES, usually for LESS than to the bigger airports. You CAN (easily and comfortably) get there from here!
Work-Life Balance
A smaller city often provides a more relaxed atmosphere, which can contribute to a better work-life balance during the event. Attendees can enjoy the charm and tranquility of the town, taking time to unwind and recharge. This can lead to higher satisfaction and better overall well-being, enhancing the effectiveness of the meeting or event. Besides, sometimes attendees don’t have time, ability, or even the interest to enjoy offerings that larger city venues offer but still charge exorbitant mandatory “resort fees” for. They’re less likely to have those annoying fees in smaller city and town locations.
So What Are Some of These Great Towns and Cities?
You can really find some great hidden gems for your meetings and events in places like:
Asheville, NC Sedona, AZ Helena, MT
Madison, WI Charleston, SC Lexington, KY
Boulder, CO Bend, OR Biloxi, MS
Knoxville, TN Santa Fe, NM Monterey, CA
Not only do these locales offer fantastic meeting facilities, but their economies of scale and available amenities are often considerably greater than their larger competitors. Looking for somewhere in between? Consider:
St. Louis, MO Oklahoma City, OK Detroit, MI
Memphis, TN Baltimore, MD Topeka, KS
Napa, CA Minneapolis, MN Austin, TX
Springfield, IL Tampa, FL Salt Lake City, UT
These are just a very few to look at, and there are some equally great options internationally, too!
Conclusion
While big cities and “brand name” locations undoubtedly have their appeal, the advantages of hosting a business meeting or event in a smaller city or town are very much worth considering. From cost savings and personalized service to unique venues and a focus on productivity, smaller locales offer a range of benefits that can enhance the success of your corporate gathering. By choosing a less obvious destination, you might just find that your event is not only more efficient but also more memorable and impactful. That can put a feather in your cap, or as I like to put it, you’ll more likely say, “ME – ACCOMPLISHED”!
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