“The Power of Live” was the theme of Cvent Connect 2018 in Las Vegas, and by the record-breaking attendance of the show, delegates seemed to take that as the importance of meeting face to face for four days of innovative content, several new product unveilings and inspiring keynotes.

Companies are planning more meetings and larger meetings, and spending more in the process, according to a new study by Cvent, which is holding its four-day Cvent Connect show in Las Vegas through July 26, 2018, with more than 4,000 hospitality professionals in attendance at the event.

Take one look at a delightful dish crafted or co-crafted by Eric Klein, vice president of culinary for the famed Wolfgang Puck Catering (WPC) and former executive chef at Spago Las Vegas, and “simple” is hardly the word that comes to mind. More like “complex,” maybe even “fantastical.”

Joint venture partners the Bernstein Companies and Boston Properties broke ground on the new Marriott International headquarters complex and adjacent Marriott hotel in downtown Bethesda, Maryland.

With its bounty of eclectic chefs, ethnic diversity and locally sourced ingredients, combined with a culture of wellness and reinvention, Los Angeles County has evolved into one of the world’s most dynamic culinary destinations. L.A.’s Westside and beach cities are prime places for groups to experience the delectable treats of the region.

Conventions are becoming increasingly savvy when it comes to CSR initiatives, and MPI’s 2018 World Education Congress (WEC), held June 2-5, 2018, in Indianapolis, was no exception. Visit Indy and MPI incorporated a wealth of unique initiatives into the program to support local charities and help create a model and methodology by which future meetings all over the world can emulate.

The historic Wigwam in Litchfield, Ariz., is bucking the commission-slashing trend and continuing to support meeting planners with a generous new promotion. Under the property’s Make History in ’18 program, planners will receive 18 percent commission on group room nights for stays from July 1 to Dec. 31, 2018.

Founded in 2008, One Gun Ranch is a biodynamic farm cradled in the Santa Monica Mountains with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and awe-inspiring rock formations. A magical place for healing mind, body and spirit, the ranch is a sanctuary of serenity that inspires a healthy lifestyle.

One of the best ways for planners to incorporate wellness into meetings is by gifting attendees with health-conscious amenities during the agenda. From essential oils to bath products to nutritious cookbooks, the choices nowadays are endless. Following are four great options.

In the age of ever-evolving gender diversity acceptance and recognition, creating warm and welcoming experiences for all attendees is becoming increasingly important as meeting professionals. At MPI's WEC 2018, Bernadette Smith offered the following action steps for designing LGBTQIA-inclusive meetings and events.