This month we sat down with Rachael, our Corporate Groups Coordinator to discuss a little about herself along with trends she saw this year with group events.
Rachael grew up in Dalton, OH where she currently resides with her husband Brian, their 4 year old son Caleb, and the many animals she also refers to as her kids. Growing up on a farm taught Rachael a love for animals at a very young age. After traveling many years with Brian’s military career, she worked for a larger corporation in the area. Coming from “Corporate America” she understands the technical needs of planning off-site corporate meetings, along with the need to ensure all guests enjoy themselves in an environment that provides for an unforgettable success!
When Rachael’s not working, she can usually be found with family, friends and her dogs. “I love all things Christmas, so this truly is my favorite time of year!”
What trends do you think we will see in 2017?
This past year, we saw team building grow a considerable amount from previous years. This is a trend we will continue to see increase, and this is the reason we are offering more for activities than what we have in years past. One of my favorite experiences with our groups is when they participate in one of our team building challenges. I have yet to see two groups do a challenge the same way!
Dietary restrictions seem to be a common topic as well with meeting coordinators. Our Executive Chef is great at working with any dietary restrictions guests may have. Whether it be dairy, gluten, etc. we can accommodate! We have had some guests that have extensive food allergies or intolerances, and to be able to provide them with an experience that is comparable to their fellow guests, when they usually can’t, is very rewarding. Wellness is a factor a lot of larger corporations are focusing on. It’s important to have healthy and delicious food for their attendees. Our menus offer a good balance of healthy, locally-sourced options, while still offering the light, yet indulgent must-haves, such as cookie breaks (a staple for any chocolate-lover such as myself)!
Overall guests want an all-encompassing retreat. Somewhere they can go to unwind and relax before, after and sometimes during their meetings. It’s important that they have a comfortable space, appetizing food choices with an environment that evokes a successful meeting. They also want activities for guests during their stay with organized events they could participate in as a team. Compiling the structure of the event to fit perfectly with the coordinators needs is an aspect to my job that I thoroughly enjoy! Some people get lost in the details, while the details are my favorite part!
We look forward to hopefully serving you and yours in 2017! For more information, visit our Corporate Group page, or contact Rachael Koontz directly at rkoontz@innathoneyrun.com.