Recovery. It's on the horizon, but times are still challenging, and doing more with less often seems to be a daunting task. Learn to harness the power of strategic thinking and you'll find a silver lining in this cloudy economy--for your clients and yourself:

Location, location, location. Work with your clients to select destinations that are not only appealing, but easy to get to--and to get around. Attendees should be able to fly in easily and at a reasonable cost, and once there, they should be able to move between lodgings and event venues quickly and easily. You'll help everyone save time and money, and they'll thank you for it.

Shop smart. Use the power of your supplier relationships to negotiate great deals. Good business is built on personal connections, and just as clients will continue to bring their business to planners they know and trust, properties will work to keep the business of planners who know and trust them. (Hint: The deals in this newsletter, MeetingTraveler.com and the Private Meetings Summit are great places to find hoteliers who value meeting and event travelers.)

Return on investment. It's not just a catchphrase, it's a trend that's here to stay. Find ways to make meetings invaluable by creating dynamic meeting content, using technology to streamline meeting architecture, and demonstrating for your clients how their event improves their bottom line, and you'll earn their loyalty--and future business--when happy days are here again.

	La Quinta Resort & Club - La Quinta, California Group Offer Take advantage of La Quinta Resort & Club's exclusive event planner special. Book a minimum of 75 rooms for 2009 by Nov. 30, 2009, and receive a 10 percent discount off your master account. More...
	The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki - Honolulu, Hawaii Special Offer Get epic value for your next meeting and an opportunity to give back! Book by August 31, 2009, to recieve valuable perks and a chance to win a Natasha Bedingfield concert for your community. More...
	Marina Inn at Grand Dunes - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 2009 Group Stimulus Package If you're wondering when your organization's stimulus package will arrive, it's here. The Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, you'll have a choice of favorable company incentives that are far from frivolous! More...
	Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa - Indian Wells, California More than 550 beautifully appointed rooms and suites provide a sanctuary for busy delegates, each featuring a host of luxurious amenities such as plush robes, spacious double-sided closets, and private balconies looking out on either the mountains or the pool area. More...
	Montage Laguna Beach - Laguna Beach, California Set on coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Montage Laguna Beach is a picturesque retreat that reflects the culture, arts, and heritage of this quaint beachside community. More...
	The Villas of Grand Cypress - Orlando, Florida Productive and memorable meetings happen at The Villas of Grand Cypress just as naturally as rounds of golf happen in the Florida sunshine. More...