primarily on using local and regional ingredients in menus, which many planners and their groups also appreci- ate.


Steven Wilson, director of group sales for Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, MD, says that meeting planners of executive retreats tend to look for a property that is experienced in han- dling the demands of discerning busi- ness travelers. “We have found that these attendees are usually senior or high-ranking members of an organiza- tion who are used to VIP service and attention to detail.”


He adds that Gaylord National Resort has several services in place to cater specifically to such groups, including a “celebrity service team” that will act as the group’s own personal concierge, from the moment they check-in


throughout the program, tending to all of their needs. “Our resort also pro- vides a dedicated executive meeting manager to help them plan out every detail prior to, during and after their retreat.”


Wilson notes that planners also appre- ciate the unique and easily navigable destination that is National Harbor. An easily walkable waterfront destina- tion, it offers a variety of attractions and activities just steps from the resort, along with world-class dining.


"Gaylord National also has a variety of exclusive venues within the hotel that can be customized to the meeting planner’s specifications,” he explains. “Ranging from its Presidential Suites to its uniquely-designed Concept Suites or private Executive Boardrooms, there are many options available from which planners can choose.”


Planners also might opt to utilize one of the private dining rooms in the resort’s signature restaurant, Old Hickory Steakhouse, which can pro- vide an exclusive fine dining experi- ence for attendees.


When it comes to incorporating a social component into the retreat, Wilson points out that there are many year-round activities available for groups at Gaylord National that can help serve as ice-breakers and team building experiences. “In the warmer months, team outings can include kayaking and boat rides on the Potomac River; organized (5k) ‘fun runs’ along National Harbor’s water- front trail; as well as rides on The Capital Wheel, a 180-foot tall observa- tion wheel.”


Groups also can engage in organized team building scavenger hunts


THE BREAK ROOM


IN THE POCONO MOUNTAINS IS 67,000 ACRES.


Take company team building to grand new heights in the Pocono Mountains. Discover exhilarating activities everywhere, from in the sky to on the slopes. Or just meet around a campfire. Plan your group retreat today. For more information, contact Vice President of Sales, David Jackson, at 570.236.1699 or Djackson@Poconos.org.


#PoconoMtns Mid-Atlantic­EvEnts Magazine 15


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