Amid the changing face of corporate travel and events, it’s important to step back and observe the moments worthy of celebration along the way. We are honored to be a 2020 Stella Awards Finalist in five regions—Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, and Far West. Our team lives, works, and plays throughout these regions. We are lucky to enjoy life in our destinations every day of the year, never forgetting that they are the foundation of the experiences we create.
These destinations have lives of their own and it is a great joy of our work to share them with so many. Thank you to our clients and partners for making that possible. While we may not be hosting on the ground right now, we wanted to take the time to celebrate the best of what our destinations have to offer. We are excited to welcome our clients and their guests back in the (hopefully near) future!
Northeast
Boston
“Boston truly has something for everyone. With rich history literally lining our sidewalks (parallel red bricks means you are on the Freedom Trail!) , harbor views with opportunity for kayaking, sailing and rowing, the freshest seaside delights, museums around every corner, and a booming tech scene, no wonder folks come back time and time again! Is there anything better than grabbing a cold Sam Adams, putting your feet up, cracking a lobster, and watching the sun set over Boston’s city skyline? I think not!” —Rachel Strauss, Account Executive, Boston
Baltimore
“I love that Baltimore has a true identity shaped of its industries and nurtured by its people, culture, and pride! Charm City can be quirky like Hampden and sophisticated like Harbor East. A complex city where you can have Blue Crabs smothered in Old Bay, a Natty Boh & Boog’s BBQ at Camden Yards, a special dinner in Little Italy or a Sagamore Mule in Fells Point! Whether I am cheering on the Ravens, seeing a show at the Hippodrome, sailing the harbor, or learning more rich history, BaltiMORE feels like home.” —Nicole Cozier, National Senior Account Executive
Washington, DC
“While Washington, DC can sometimes be viewed as stuffy, dry, or only political, we like to show off a different side to our nation’s capital! With Smithsonian national museums, history, music, a chef-driven restaurant scene, culture, and winning sports, our city is like no other. Where else can you see the Declaration of Independence, Dorothy’s original ruby slippers, bike to and stand where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his iconic speech, listen to jazz in the park, and eat at a Michelin star restaurant all in one trip? The monuments still give me chills when they are lit up at night!” —Lindsey Schneider, Senior Account Executive, Washington, DC
Southeast
Orlando
“From wizards and fairytales to animal encounters and more, best known for its world-class theme parks, Orlando offers so much it’s no wonder it draws nearly 70 million visitors a year. With its magnificent weather, professional sporting teams, renowned art and theatre district, exotic culinary delights, excursions, and more, this diverse destination appeals to all. See you real soon in sunny Florida!” —Cheri Secue, Director of Business Development, Orlando
South Florida
“I love the diversity of the destinations in South Florida. The contemporary energy of Miami, the laid back vibe of Ft. Lauderdale, the sophistication of Pam Beach, the beautiful beaches of Naples and Marco, and island getaways in the Keys. I love having all of this to offer clients!” —Brian Whitt, Vice President of Sales, South Florida
Nashville
“Nashville has one of the best live music scenes in the world and lives up to its name, Music City. Besides endless iconic venues such as the Ryman, Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and Bluebird Café, Nashville is filled with aspiring singer-songwriters and talented musicians who truly give the city its soul. This, combined with scratch-made Southern meals, historical attractions, and rolling countryside hills, make Nashville feel like a small town feel in a big city.” —Joanna Boitos, Senior Account Executive, Nashville
“Growing up, my mom always had country playing on the car radio and when I was in my 20’s I made my first trip to Nashville. I wanted to learn the history behind the music that I fell in love with because my mom made it a part of our lives. To my surprise, not only did I get an education lesson during my trip, but I gained a new love. I fell in love with Nashville’s deep history (both in music and in human rights), the fact that no matter where you went there was live music, and the amazing food. In 2010, I moved to Nashville and it became my home. During these last 10 years my love has continued to grow and I am always finding one new thing that makes my heart jump a beat.” —Sari Hill, Account Executive, Nashville
Midwest
Chicago
“Chicago is a breathtaking city. From Lake Michigan and all of the beaches to the gorgeous skyline and architecture, the scenery around Chicago is unforgettable. I love being a part of the bustling hospitality industry here, working with amazing hotels, venues, and partners.” —Micayla Diener, CMP, CSEP, Director of Sales, Chicago
Southwest
Denver
“Colorado is a big kid’s playground! From hiking, skiing, camping, white water rafting, golfing, mountain biking, breweries, fantastic food, Red Rocks Amphitheater…you name it, we have it! With majestic mountains in your backyard, it’s hard not to love Colorado!” —Nicole Rolstad, CMP, Senior Account Executive, Denver
Texas
“Texas has something to offer everyone! Austin is known for its amazing food truck scene and history as a small college town. It is on its way to being a little big city. San Antonio offers history and everyone enjoys the 15 mile-long River Walk. The walkable city is colorful and romantic. You could spend time in the sprawling city of Houston, maybe enjoy a little turtle race, or drive just an hour south and soak up some sunshine on the beach. Last but not least, Dallas is a metropolis city boasting restaurants, bars, sporting events, and neighborhoods that you can’t help but want to explore. The urban city allows for downtown living with remarkable green space and an Arts District known as the cultural hub.” —Alisa Caldwell, CMP, Director of Sales, Texas
Far West
Las Vegas
“What I love about living and working in Las Vegas is the passion of the people, the diversity of offerings, and the interesting evolution of the city. People who live and work in Vegas are part of a unique community—I always say Vegas is a small town in a big city. There are so many cross-connections here and so much collaboration to make sure Vegas has a place on the industry map! With so many cities, people visit time and again to visit historic landmarks and iconic locations that have lived in those cities for hundreds of years, but with Vegas, we are constantly reinventing ourselves. Our restaurants, event spaces, nightclubs, and other offerings are continually evolving and leading the trends for others to follow.” — Debi Kinney, DMCP, General Manager & Director of Sales, Las Vegas
The Stella Awards, given by Northstar Meetings Group, recognize hotels, convention centers, conference centers, airlines, cruise lines, DMO/CVBs, and DMCs for their superior service and innovation.