Who says conferences or chapter meetings have to be in traditional meeting spaces?
The problem with some meeting rooms is they are not always all that conducive to learning and networking. They are usually cold, sometimes down-right frigid, making everyone but the speaker uncomfortable. Conference rooms tend to be dark, and participants may find themselves fighting post-lunch naps. The acoustics can be poor, which makes it hard for participants to hear one another. Some spaces are cavernous, which may cause some attendees to feel intimidated.
I like to look for unusual venues for meetings; spaces that are fun, friendly, warm, and artsy. Some areas lend themselves to movement, creativity, and out-of-the-box thinking, which are ideal for promoting learning and networking.
Have you been toying with the idea of moving your event out of a traditional meeting space? Even for a few hours or half-day? Here are some non-traditional ideas: artist communities, living history museums, park pavilions, public gardens, outdoor venues, summer camps, farms, and more.
Recently, I got a conference promotion with the subject line, “Have you ever had a meeting in a kayak?” Not yet, but I would like to!
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