Jeffrey R. Blewett
Director of Meetings & Events; Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association; Ormond Beach, Fla.
Describe your event. Fire-Rescue EAST is a combined Professional Development Conference and major Southeastern Trade Show for the fire and emergency services industry. We had in excess of 6,700 go through the trade show with an additional 500 to 700 attend meetings and seminars during the four days we were at the Ocean Center. The new Ocean Center is the only facility in the Daytona Beach area able to host an event of this nature.
Why did you decide to host the meeting in Daytona? The previous facility we used was not large enough for expansion of the show and the conference. The location is easily accessible to the Southeastern region of the county, and the hotels are convenient to the center. Also, the beaches didn’t hurt in promoting the show to attendees.
Is there anything that surprised your attendees about Daytona? The Ocean Center and what it offered to the exhibitors as well as the meeting spaces available for classes and meetings. The hotel being within immediate walking distance from the center was convenient, as well as easy access to restaurants and other after-hours activities.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most? Most complimented the facility and generally Daytona’s great beaches. The hotels were complimented for their service and assistance to guests.
Was anybody particularly helpful? The full staff at the Ocean Center was extremely helpful. I must point out our sales representative Lori Hunter and the event services manager Jeff Gilbert for exceptional assistance before and during the event.
Is there anything you wish you had known beforehand? The final phases of construction were not completed, and the parking was somewhat difficult.
Is there anything you would have done differently in retrospect? Provide more information to those attending the event about access to the center and parking.
What other types of groups would fit well at the property? Any group that wants to have large exhibit areas along with multiple meeting rooms. Professional associations and trade groups would find the Ocean Center ideal for their meetings.
What were some of the unique off-site venues that you used? Many of the local restaurants and gathering places offered a variety of off-site activities for those attending the meetings and exposition. Of course, the ocean in January is always a draw, especially for those from the Northern states.
How does Daytona compare to other places where you have planned meetings? There is a lot more for the attendees to do in Daytona Beach than in other places where we’ve held this event.
Would you return? Yes, we will be here for multiple years as the venue and facilities meet our requirements.
Do you have any advice for other planners who might bring a group to Daytona? It is an excellent venue, and the Ocean Center is great. There are top-notch resort properties willing to work with the planner to ensure the success of the meeting. In addition, the Daytona Beach CVB is willing and able to assist the planner.