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Planner's Perspective

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Joanne Burns Millar
President
Pacific Destination Services Inc.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Describe your event.
We organized a high-level event for a global corporation, a client thank-you event for about 100 people, along with some strategic meetings. We were at the Four Seasons Resort Whistler for three nights.

Why did you decide to host the meeting in Whistler?
It was the client’s choice. They wanted to keep the meeting in North America, and do something a bit different from all the been-there-and-done-that places they had been previously. The Four Seasons was the main draw, but Whistler’s sustainability practices and wonderful opportunities for off-site events and outdoor activities also figured into their decision.

What surprised you the most about Whistler?
Nothing, because we operate there all the time. But what might surprise others not so familiar is its compact profile. Everything is close so you don’t have to transport anywhere.

What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most?
They enjoyed getting out so quickly to a mountaintop or a remote place for the next activity. Also the incredible scenery, fresh air and outdoor environment. All that, plus the service levels offered by hotels like the Four Seasons and the Fairmont. Also, Whistler dining is on a par with Vancouver, San Francisco and New York City.

Was anybody particularly helpful at a venue or property?
Yes, P.J. Elliott at the Four Seasons. She is an amazing director of catering and conference services.

What would you have done differently?
Nothing, this one was perfect.

What were some of the unique off-site venues you used?
We used the new Squamish Lil’wat Culture Center, which is just across the street from the Four Seasons and the Fairmont. It works well for either the first or last night, because guests can get back to their rooms in three minutes. In terms of capacity, it can do groups as large as 300 people, and it’s simply fantastic because it’s so beautifully and authentically done. It’s a museum, but you can bring in F&B including red wine—not right next to the artifacts. It answers well the client who wants something that showcases the destination. We had a reception in the Great Hall and an intimate dinner for 100 in Istken Hall. Both venues have spectacular mountain views.

How does Whistler compare to other cities where you have hosted meetings?
Compared to other resort areas we’ve used, Whistler is out in front in terms of its compact profile. Your longest drive is eight minutes to get anywhere, not an hour. This increases quality time in the day for whatever. You are saving money, time and your energy footprint. And in terms of green meetings, both the Four Seasons and Fairmont have programs in-house. Whistler requires vendors to adhere to stringent sustainability codes.

Do you have any advice for other planners who might bring a meeting to Whistler?
In winter, there’s no need to worry about accessibility. You fly into Vancouver and we use 4x4 vehicles to get to the resort, which is about 90 minutes away. I would also advise groups not to think of it as just for skiing—because I know that has steered some people away who have concerns for non-skiers. There is so much more to do than ski, like snowshoe, dog sledding, zipline 365 days a year, cross-country skiing, and cooking classes at Bearfoot Bistro—classes they won’t soon forget. That’s the place to go over the top for special groups—and get West Coast cuisine with a French flair plus a huge wine cellar. Whistler has a lot of wonderful dining options, but this one is in a class by itself.