Even after a decade in the business, In the Loop-Chicago (www.intheloop-chicago.com), a Chicago-based DMC, never tires of promoting its own city to groups.
"Chicago has great venues, great hotels, great airlift," says Andrew Schorr, president and principal of In the Loop-Chicago. "We want you to come to Chicago for the collective experience. There is still a lot to discover here."
In the Loop-Chicago focuses its efforts on utilizing the plethora of off-site venues spread throughout the city, whether it’s often-used Navy Pier or the popular River East Arts Center.
"Chicago is really fortunate in that we have well over 50 to 60 venues, from orchestra halls to lofted art gallery space, to old warehouse space," Schorr says. "There is a diversity of venues—something really for every price point."
On the high end is the Art Institute of Chicago, now sporting the Renzo Piano-designed Modern Wing. The museum is one of the most requested spaces by groups, according to Schorr, and groups can take advantage of the gallery space in the new wing as well as its third-floor restaurant, Terzo Piano, overlooking Millennium Park.
"The design of the space is very contemporary," Schorr says of the new wing. "What makes it unique are its fantastic views. There is a bridge that connects the restaurant and Millennium Park to the new wing. Groups can use the bridge as an entrance or exit to the event."
Another popular venue is the Shedd Aquarium, which recently underwent a major renovation.
"The improvements have brought us back to that venue," Schorr explains. "What makes it great for us is that it’s a venue that appreciates and values group business. The Shedd does that; it just added new outdoor space directly on the lake. That’s amazing."
In the Loop-Chicago also gets its share of sports requests from groups, mostly for Wrigley Field, though that availability depends on the season and game schedule. The Chicago Bears’ Soldier Field can also host groups, as can United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks. Upon request, the DMC can help with everything from organizing appearances by sports figures to incorporating a sports theme into a hotel event.
"Usually for a welcome reception we get requests for sports figures. Mike Ditka is highly requested," Schorr says.
But Ditka, a former Chicago Bears coach, isn’t the only celebrity request—no, Oprah is not available!
Despite a slow year, In the Loop-Chicago is seeing progress in the future.
"We’ve got a lot of events on the books for next year, which is exciting," Schorr says. "People want to lock in their venues. They are not locking in on every last detail, but choosing venues and themes."
