“The Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia is my dream event venue. With multiple event spaces designed by the iconic Dorothy Draper as a backdrop, the possibilities for creating a unique and elegant event are endless. The Cameo Ballroom is beyond glamorous, and it is both strikingly bold and classically feminine.”
Charlotte Jarrett, event planner and floral designer, Charlotte Jarrett Events, Washington
“The Orange County Convention Center is the second-largest convention center in the United States. Besides the convention center being impressively spacious, being in sunny Orlando only adds to the allure.”
Khaaliq Thomas, creative event photographer, Khaaliq Thomas Photography, Chicago
“The Oberoi Udaivilas hotel in India. The property is an exquisite canvas, and it would be so exciting to bring a creative event to fruition there.”
Trish Simitakos, owner, Trish Star Events, Washington
“The Eden Project is the world’s largest indoor rainforest, located in Cornwall, United Kingdom. The venue includes incredible amenities such as waterfalls, aerial walkways, an ice rink, and locally sourced catering. With such an impressive landscape and its dedication to environmental preservation, the Eden Project is one of the most unique venues in the world.”
Brian Diamond, C.E.O. and co-founder, the Visionary Group, Los Angeles
“The Palais-Royal hosts a history of culture and beauty in the heart of Paris. This special location is where a trio of arcades frame the garden so beautifully: the Galerie de Valois to the east, the Galerie de Montpensier to the west, and the Galerie de Beaujolais. However, it’s the southern end of the complex, polka-dotted with sculptor Daniel Buren’s 260 black-and-white striped columns, that has become the garden’s signature feature. With all these unique features, it makes for a spectacular backdrop for a special event.”
Kathy Corcoran, owner and lead designer, Planned With Style, New York and Miami
“The Antiguo Casino de Puerto Rico is located in the heart of Old San Juan. It was originally opened as a social club in 1917. It is one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in Old San Juan. The space is perfect for various events and needs very little decoration as its stunning gardens, balconies, chandelier, white marble floors, and majestic ballroom hold the glamour and splendor of the early 20th century. It is my dream venue because it provides flexible open space, which allows the planner to play with the elements in order to create the desired look and feel. Both the building and its surroundings create a unique atmosphere that can really add the magical touch to any social event.”
Zoe Santiago Font, assistant professor of event and convention management, José A. Santana International School of Hospitality & Culinary Arts, Carolina, Puerto Rico
“The Hyder House is a warm, exotic, cozy place in the center of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. The charm with which it has been decorated cannot be equaled by any other venue.”
Nancy Dee Miller, owner, Lil’ Bits Mini Donuts and Sugar Clouds, Dallas
“The Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles. In addition to being an incredibly luxe and expansive space, the amount of play that could be done with lighting and decor in all the reflections could be truly epic. The creative possibilities are practically limitless.”
Juliet Pennay, event planner, Gleam Event Design, Philadelphia
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