Sandy Rim, CMP
Owner
Meetings Info MIM
Pittsburgh
Describe your event.
Our program hosted approximately 900 members of an association involved with breast and colon cancer research. The event was held at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville.
Why did you decide to host the meeting in Jacksonville?
First, the Hyatt Regency. The size of the hotel and the fact that a Hyatt had taken over the facility was attractive to us. During the first site visit, we found the hotel was in transition and the contract was written based on changes. The changes were exceptional and the hotel shines! The condition of the property exceeded our expectations. Second, Jacksonville has a great midsize airport that is easy to navigate and convenient to the Hyatt.
What surprised you most about Jacksonville?
We were surprised to see how many young adults were moving into the area.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy most?
The education and networking involved in the event are the high points for this group. However, we were impressed by the ease of walking to Jacksonville Landing and the variety of area restaurants.
Is there anything you wish you had known beforehand?
I was unaware that Jacksonville Landing will sponsor the band if you host an event there. Next time!
What would you have done differently?
Encouraged the group to shorten one day of meetings (maybe end at 2 p.m.) and lengthen the optional trip to St. Augustine.
What other types of groups would fit well with the property?
Both corporate and associations would do well with Jacksonville and the Hyatt. I believe it is a good overall value.
What were some of the unique events you hosted?
We decided to stay on property, as the hotel has a great outdoor area overlooking the river. We hosted a Jimmy Buffet night complete with a band, parrots, tropical shirt contest and lots of great food.
Did you incorporate any interesting excursions or activities into the agenda?
St. Augustine! We had an optional evening of visiting the great restaurants, walking through charming shops and enjoying horse and carriage rides under the moonlight. A few attendees actually extended their weekend and stayed at the Casa Monica Hotel in St. Augustine following our program.
What local suppliers did you utilize?
We happened to be in Florida during a big weekend for high school trips to Orlando, and no motorcoaches were to be found. With the help of the Jacksonville CVB, we brainstormed and they connected us to a convoy of school buses that made the trip from the Hyatt to St. Augustine and back.
How does Jacksonville compare to other cities where you have hosted meetings?
Jacksonville is a very good value. The city is still growing and appears to host quite a few large community events.
Would you return?
I personally would move to the area! Actually, we just contracted with the newly renovated Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach for an event during March 2009. This is a corporate program, and in addition to the good hotel options, we are hosting one of our events at the fabulous new TPC Clubhouse. This is a new client celebrating a 30th anniversary, thus the wow factor was important.
Do you have any advice for other planners who might bring a meeting to Northeast Florida?
Try to tie in the surrounding areas and activities. The beaches are great—hard sand and good for bike riding and walking. St. Augustine is unique and has so much charm. Many people do not allow enough time in St. Augustine.
