Stephanie Turner, senior vice president of conference sales strategy for the New Orleans-based company, details the latest developments and things to watch out for.
New Orleans Company Formation Designed for hosting Several years ago, we began educating planners about what Crescent City has to offer groups and how its team of professionals can help through seamless, one-stop meeting and incentive planning services. “New Orleans & Company takes the time to understand our clients and align with their goals, which creates a valuable partnership,” said Stephanie Turner, senior vice president of meeting sales strategy. “From venue selection to the final attendee departure, we stay connected with our clients every step of the way to ensure success. We offer free planning services, marketing tools and attendance-boosting resources, and connect organizations with volunteer opportunities that reflect their values.” Prevost recently caught up with Turner to get the inside scoop on Built to Host and NOLA.
Previous article: What are the most significant changes to the NOLA meetings and incentives market since the launch of the Built to Host program in 2022?
Stephanie Turner, Senior Vice President, Sales Strategy, New Orleans Corporate Conferences:
The biggest change in New Orleans is the development of a new hospitality industry. The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans is undergoing a comprehensive $557 million capital improvement strategy that includes everything from the rooftop to meeting rooms, from exhibit halls to a state-of-the-art transportation center. Convention Center Boulevard has been transformed into a 7.5-acre pedestrian park with 200 trees, art installations, shaded gathering spaces and outdoor event spaces. The 39 acres of riverfront property adjacent to the convention center is being transformed into an entirely new neighborhood called “The Riverfront” that will include dining, retail, entertainment venues and 900 units of mixed-income housing, 450 of which will be affordable and workplace housing.
Previous article: What are the most important things planners of new hotel and venue developments should be aware of?
turner: Global and luxury brands are investing in New Orleans. Four Seasons, Virgin Hotels and the $450 million renovation of the Caesars Superdome (to be completed in time for the 2025 Super Bowl) have elevated the city’s hospitality offerings. In addition, Caesars Entertainment will spend $435 million to rebrand Harrah’s Casino and build a new 340-room hotel tower scheduled to open this fall. A 31-story office tower in the central business district is being converted into the 250-room Fairmont New Orleans with 20,000 square feet of meeting space. A 216-room Marriott Element is also part of the project, scheduled to open in summer 2025.
In other venue news, the National WWII Museum completed its final permanent exhibit and opened its American Expressions exhibit and new Emancipation Hall last year to widespread acclaim. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and Insectarium welcomed a new lobby and 17,000 square feet of new exhibition space following a $40 million renovation.
Previous post: What are some specific ways that New Orleans companies can help planners coordinate the complex logistics of meetings and events?
turner: The New Orleans Corporate Services team specializes in matching the right resources to every event. Our local experts can solve the most technical issues of a meeting, from understanding transportation routes to understanding city regulations to staffing needs. When challenges arise, we provide solutions that emphasize our dedication to the group’s goals. Our meeting services professionals are passionate about the city and the level of service they provide. Within this context, our marketing and attendance enhancement team provides planners with a suite of free tools to generate interest and increase registrations.
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