group of people standing next to decorated Christmas tree
Smart meeting motivational experience sets a positive example

Listen to audio Smart Meetings makes history by bringing together top meeting professionals at an iconic location that just underwent a nearly $200 million renovation to experience the best motivational practices used today. The Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix, a Platinum Choice Award-winning hotel, is ending the year on a festive note with its smart meeting rewards experience, bringing with it new and renewed connections and a wealth of insights that will Making 2025 the best event season yet. By taking care of guests' needs at this iconic four-diamond hotel, attendees can focus on building new relationships and open their minds to fun exercises like competitive tree pruning—yes, that's a thing now, This is thanks to the generosity of Wondry's Mobile Floral Artists, Terramar DMC and Michaels Stores. From cabins to villas, all 703 rooms have been renovated. The new Tierra Luna Spa, outdoor Spire Bar, water park and 200,000 square feet of historic and contemporary conference center space provide…

illustration of four puzzle pieces
Event 2025: Creating a foundation of connection

Listen to audio Imagine carefully planning an event, such as preparing Thanksgiving dinner, where every ingredient, every dish, every seat at the table is thoughtfully considered. Today, something different is brewing in the events industry—a transformation driven by deeper human connection, inclusivity, and the magic of technology. Just as a home-cooked meal brings us together to celebrate our shared stories and personalities, the 2025 events will bring people together in a way that honors the unique experiences they bring to the table, whether they are listening from a thousand miles away Still sitting next to us. we start from Basics of connection— a universal longing that grows deeper as we emerge from years of alienation. Just as eating around a table fosters unity, today's activities are designed to build a sense of community and belonging. The hybrid format blurs the lines between in-person and digital experiences, inviting remote and on-site attendees to participate in shared moments and making everyone feel…

9 Ways to Make Meetings More Friendly for Neurodivergent People
9 Ways to Make Meetings More Friendly for Neurodivergent People

Making your conference more welcoming to neurodivergent attendees might be easier than you think. Neurodivergent people used to have to suffer in silence at large group meetings and events—or simply choose not to attend to avoid trouble. Fortunately, there is now greater recognition that the brains of those with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, or other causes process sensory and informational data differently from neurotypical brains. Different people may need some adjustments to fully participate in meetings and events. Fortunately, achieving these accommodations is not difficult. Here are some of the steps meeting planners, venues, and destinations are taking to make meetings more suitable for neurodivergent attendees, as well as neurotypical attendees who may also appreciate some of the same considerations. Create a quiet room. Large meetings and events can overload everyone’s senses, so why not designate quiet areas where attendees can take a break away from the noise and crowds? These spaces should be away from the…