President
Elite Planning Services
Houston
Describe your event.
It was the annual meeting of the Texas Association of Business Professionals of America (BPA), and we had 3,000 students, teachers and advisors in Corpus Christi for a series of competitive events and educational sessions over a four-day period. The Omni Bayfront was our headquarters hotel, and we used nearly all the other major hotels. The student attendee age range was 12 and 13 through high school seniors.
Why did you decide to host the meeting in Corpus Christi?
The decision was made by my predecessor, but the organization has found Corpus to be one of its most successful destinations. BPA moves the state conference around Texas every year. Next year is Dallas, Austin is 2009, and it’ll be Fort Worth for both 2010 and 2011.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most?
Getting around was so easy. We had a transportation disaster last year in the city where we met, so they were pleased to have everything go so smoothly.
Was anybody particularly helpful?
Yes, Ross Weatherford, sales manager at the Omni Bayfront, was wonderful, especially when we almost had a transportation problem because I had contracted for seven instead of 10 buses. He was willing to step forward with the hotel’s fleet of vans from both Omni hotels.
What were some of the unique off-site venues that you used?
We had a Friday night special student event at Old Concrete Street, a venue with amphitheaters. We contracted with the local affiliate of JumpUSA, which organized sports inflatables, a rock climbing wall, an obstacle course, and a DJ who did karaoke. Everything was interactive, and they loved that.
How does Corpus Christi compare to other cities where you have hosted meetings?
It has always been one of our top cities for attendance so we go there about every four years. The hotels work well with us, the climate is just right, and the students love the water. Teachers love the city, too.
Do you have any advice for other planners who might bring a meeting to Corpus Christi?
It is an excellent place to take your groups. There is so much to do and see after meetings, including lots of entertainment. The CVB is very accommodating, too; they help with housing and negotiations with the hotels.