Norris News

HO HO - OH NO

Event Planning Is A SNAP

Norris - Around The State Update

Planning A Company Holiday Party?

December may seem like a long time away, but historically, most properties begin booking holiday celebrations in early January; and by mid July, a number of venues are already booked. The Red Oak Ballrooms, with locations in Austin, San Antonio and Fort Worth are no different and they are booking fast for corporate holiday
celebrations. With limited weekend dates between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, coupled with economic concerns, here are a few suggestions you might consider:

Host a weeknight gathering:

Venues may provide lower rates on Tuesday – Thursday evening events vs. Friday and Saturday parties.

Host a company luncheon:

Consider a special workday luncheon, that won’t require additional expenses for families needing babysitters. It’s a great way to celebrate – especially on a Friday.

Host a Saturday afternoon family celebration:

Make it a family friendly celebration by inviting employees and their families to a mid day luncheon – consider a visit from Santa, making it fun for all.

For more ideas and booking information, please contact us at www.norriscenters.com or phone the venue in your city:

Red Oak Ballroom – Austin 512-451-3700
Red Oak Ballroom – San Antonio 210-731-0645
Red Oak Ballroom – Fort Worth 817-349-6405

“Complete Meeting Guide” & Presentation Update:

Since being introduced in late fall 2007 – over 2,000 copies of the “Complete Resource Guide for the Professional Meeting & Event Planner” have been distributed. Most recently, we presented at the SGMP (Society Of Governmental Meeting Professionals) Annual Education Conference. The seminar drew in 87 attendees in Dallas, and 128 guides were dispersed. Over the past months, many organizations have requested private presentations for their experienced, as well as their new meeting planners. They recognize the value of effective event planning and the benefits identify industry trends and tips to save money and ensure successful/productive events.

Now in its second revision, the "Complete Meeting Guide" offers insight into event planning such as suggestions on:

Tips on selecting an event appropriate venue

Worksheets to assist in budgeting for an event
Recommendations on food service
Hints on ways to control meal expenses
And much more…..

Upgrades in the newest version include current topics such as how to host "green meetings," and the hiring of musical talent.

To schedule a private “Complete Meeting Guide” presentation, call or email Linda Hampton. Linda has over 20 years of event experience and is ready to share her knowledge with your team. She can be reached at 713-780-9387 or email her at l.hampton@norriscenters.com

Remember, all who attend the presentation, which can range from a three-hour seminar to a 45-minute overview, receive a complimentary copy of the guide.

Norris Conference Centers – Austin
Our team in Austin is excited about their move into their newly remodeled facility, located in the same great location, with the same great access and free parking. We are anticipating a busy fall with a number of our key clients rushing in to book both their day meetings and holiday celebrations. Call now to ensure your dates.

Norris Conference Centers – Houston
As we continue to finalize plans for our second Norris Center in Houston, we are excited about our working relationship with Hotel Sorella, which is part of the Hotel Valencia family of boutique hotels. We are currently booking events at the Norris Conference Centers - CityCentre for early spring of 2009.

Norris Conference Centers – San Antonio
San Antonio is now well established in the SA market – and road construction around the property has been completed. With new exit ramps open from Loop 410 and IH-10, our clients are finding that access to our facility
is much improved. This venue continues to be a great location for small trade shows, special corporate and personal celebrations and corporate day meetings.

Norris Conference Centers – Fort Worth
As prior emails and press releases have indicated, our Fort Worth project is well under construction with target move in scheduled for September. Our day meeting calendar is already filling up and we are currently working with a number of companies interested in holiday celebrations. We encourage you to give us a call so we can host your next event.