Jo Anne Mims
Convention/Meetings Manager; Associated Locksmiths of America and Safe and Vault Technicians Association; Dallas
Describe your event. Our event was an annual convention of the Safe and Vault Technicians Association in March (SAFETECH 2009). We had 350 members in attendance from over 40 countries. We are an international association, so attendees came from as far away as Papua New Guinea, Guam, Singapore, Sweden and Norway. The purpose of the meeting is educational training and we put on a trade show featuring new products. We were based at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel.
Why did you decide to host the meeting in Myrtle Beach? We wanted a location in the South for the nice weather. It was also important that the location have a lot [for attendees] to do, and Myrtle Beach fit the bill.
What surprised you the most about Myrtle Beach? The ease of getting around the city was a surprise and the convenience of the airport [location].
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most about the city? The attendees truly enjoyed the nightlife that the area offered, from the stroll down to the beach area to the easy walk over to Broadway at the Beach. Attendees enjoyed Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville and the Hard Rock Cafe Myrtle Beach.
What were some of the unique off-site venues that you used for events or meetings? Our grand finale banquet was held at Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede. Our international attendees especially enjoyed the music and history the show had to offer.
Was anybody particularly helpful at a venue or property? All of the staff at the hotel and convention center was very friendly and always ready to help with any need we had. From the loading dock staff to the banquet setup folks, everybody was very friendly.
Would you return? Yes. We are planning to return to Myrtle Beach in 2012. The Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel is the perfect venue for us. We love the city, and our attendees will be excited to return.
