as one of the best places to visit in Philadelphia, it is dotted with meadows and gardens in colorful profusion. There is an arcade and game room, a board- walk, floating barges and islands, a lounge, bars, handmade hammocks, seating, sculpture and programmed mood lighting.
“We can do almost anything here,” prom- ises Moore. “People can not only ice skate at the Blue Cross RiverRink and be warmed by fire pits, they can dance or view presentations, too. We can cover the rink and make a stage or dance floor. What a great spot to hold awards ceremonies or almost any special event! Another big plus is fireworks, which can be arranged, as well.”
Garces Group boasts locations at Spruce Street Harbor Park, Blue Cross River Rink and for Summerfest/Winterfest. Chifa fans relish its signature pork belly bao buns, chicken wings with spicy garlic- ginger sauce and glazed pork ribs. Froman’s on the boardwalk menu includes Chicago-style hot dogs, bacon knockwurst, Bavarian salt pretzels and signature fries. Every weekend, the Distrito Taco Truck serves traditional Mexican street tacos.
Moore’s mouth waters as she talks about s’mores and other seasonal food savored at Spruce Street Harbor Park. “The site is so beautiful and diversified. A climate-controlled tent enables event guests to dine and dance all winter long. There really is nothing else like this space. And Garces Groups’ deli- cious food is a perfect match.”
Imagination Reigns at Gaylord National
Amy Sherwood, director of catering for Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, jumps at opportunities to conceptualize outside the proverbial box. A recent corporate group of 500 allowed her to do just that.
“We started the festivities on the loading dock,” explains Sherwood. “Who would think such a site would welcome a party? We did, punctuating our goal to use every bit of our 500,000-square feet of flexible event space by adding imagi- nation to the mix. Guests enjoyed regional cuisine including crab cakes, oysters and other seasonal favorites served from a food truck.
“Next, we brought the group inside to the Potomac Ballroom through a back entrance,” continues Sherwood. “Voila! The big surprise was a helium balloon drop. Each one delivered savory appe- tizers in craft paper boxes. The group continued on its journey for more unex- pected happenings. A wine bike rider pedaled through the space and desserts plummeted from the ceiling. There were two bands and two stages draped in sheer curtains to partially conceal what entertainment was to follow. This was a wildly successful event and we have def- initely gotten more business as a result.”
Gaylord National is a waterfront resort dramatized by a 19-story glass atrium and sweeping views of the Potomac River. Just steps away from National Harbor’s entertainment and shopping district and eight miles from Washington, DC, it is sought as an ideal venue for meetings, conventions and special events. Among its array of luxu- rious perks are a spa, indoor swimming pool and whirlpool, state-of-the-art fit- ness center and several excellent restau- rants and boutiques.
With an auspicious new year now upon us, there exists bright promises for expanded large events, meetings and shows.
Don your most imaginative hat and daz- zle everyone with brilliance. The more inventive the ideas - the merrier!
Susan Shiber is a professional wordmonger
and public relations specialist who writes in Pottstown, PA.
PAPR3101@verizon.net
Mid-Atlantic EVENTS Magazine 53
Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center is distinctive
for reasons beyond its innovative approach to event planning. There are also on site partners
who are dedicated to meeting guests’ needs. A service-inspired team is devoted to making planners’ jobs easy and pleasant.
Hello DC is a destination management company that arranges transportation, shuttles and tours for guests of the
resort. Freeman serves as Gaylord’s preferred drayage provider, and
event planners can count on them for outstanding décor.
What's more, FedEx always is available for quick shipping, and PSAV is an exceptional audio-visual
company on premise that is skilled in the latest technologies.
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