Describe your event.
Our society has an annual social and educational heritage weekend. Last November, we met at the Williams Inn in Williamstown, located on the campus of Williams College in the Berkshires. About 170 people attended from Friday evening through Sunday.
Why did you decide to host the meeting in Williamstown? One of our members scouted around as we always do for a reasonable price at a place that could accommodate us, and the Williams Inn filled our objectives.
What surprised you the most about Williamstown? The inn staff was just wonderful. They could not have been more hospitable and ready to please. Staff—including the chef—met with us ahead of time about all the details. The result was wonderful service and lots of compliments from attendees.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most? The camaraderie—that’s the reason for the event. We had sessions on all things related to Finnish heritage—genealogy, dancing, cooking and so on. They also enjoyed all there is to do in the area. We encouraged people to come a day early to see museums, and some did. The Clark Art Institute in Williamstown has lots of masters, and the Norman Rockwell Museum is nearby in Stockbridge. There’s also wonderful shopping at outlets in Manchester, Vt., about 25 miles away.
Was anybody particularly helpful? Yes, most definitely. The inn owners were hands-on all weekend, and the director of sales, Christine Cunningham, was also there for us the entire time. The result was a very smooth event with absolutely no problems.
How does Williamstown compare to other cities where you have hosted meetings? The Berkshires have so much to offer, especially the incredible scenery. Even in November, when we were there, it offered a lot. It’s only about two and a half hours from both Boston and New York City, and there are many historic sites, performing arts venues, fine dining and lodgings. We would definitely return there another year.
Do you have any advice for other planners who might bring a meeting to Williams-town? Start your planning early, at least a year out, because this is a very popular region. In the fall, they have the gorgeous foliage and winter is ski season. We chose November because it was between the big seasons for good rates. Also, it’s on a college campus, so the inn is quite busy.