What brings us together can often tear us apart. That is absolutely true in today’s business world, where technology can turn any day, any time, and any place into a virtual meeting. Yet when the human connection is broken, that can be quite bad for business.
Getting out — stepping away from the desk, experiencing new cities, new restaurants, and new cultures — is often the best way to spark innovation, build loyalty, renew enthusiasm, and nurture ideas.
Whether you’re considering an intimate gathering of associates or a conference for international colleagues, DBusiness offers a number of venues that are perfect for off-site meetings. From the sandy shores of a northern locale to a music-filled evening at an upscale restaurant to a luxurious hotel conference room, the places you can go are all there to meet your needs.
Instead of connecting vicariously or virtually, choose a meeting site that allows you to connect visually, verbally, vibrantly, and vivaciously. The value of true interaction as a factor in growth cannot be underrated, and that can only be accomplished when people occupy the same physical space.
While current technology allows us all to attend a virtual conference, there is an important place for the face-to-face meeting in the corporate world. Some would suggest it is still the most important component of doing good business. Being together requires energy — yet it generates energy, too. Spending time together, away from the ordinary distractions, can fuel the mind, inspire others, and create an environment where people want to work, live, and be.
Harbor Shores
201 Graham Ave, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
269-927-4653
www.harborshoreslife.com
Set against the natural beauty of southwest Michigan, Harbor Shores — Lake Michigan’s first beach and golf community — provides the perfect backdrop for meetings and special events.
The property’s modern, flexible clubhouse campus offers spaces that can accommodate up to 300 people, and an expert event staff ensures every moment of any event is memorable.
From intimate indoor spaces to distinctive outdoor venues, options at Harbor Shores include:
- For meetings: The Shores Club offers the perfect boardroom setting, Harbor Shores’ Academy can be used for classroom-style meetings or breakout sessions, and the Pavilion can serve as a headquarters for larger meetings.
- For banquets and functions: Ideal for weddings and large private parties, Harbor Shores’ indoor and outdoor spaces — including the outdoor patio and bar at The Grille, the Pavilion, and the Academy — can be customized to meet any special event need.
Harbor Shores also delivers everything needed to execute a perfect event, including state-of-the-art technology, endless catering options, and award-winning golf on-site. For more information about Harbor Shores’ meeting and banquet facilities, contact the team at 269-927-4653.
The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit
1114 Washington Blvd., Detroit, MI 48226
313-442-1600
bookcadillacwestin.com
Following a two-year, $200-million redevelopment, The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit opened in 2008 as a 453-room luxury hotel with sweeping guestroom views of the riverfront and the city skyline. Now included in the National Register of Historic Places, the Italian Renaissance-style hotel, built by Detroit’s famous Book brothers, was the tallest building in Detroit and the tallest hotel in the world at its completion in 1924. With its original historic splendor and a nod to contemporary amenities, the hotel has proudly served as the premier destination for major meetings, weddings, and events. It is home of celebrity chef Michael Symon’s Roast. Roast has been lauded with numerous awards as one of the best restaurants in the country.
In 2013, The Book was selected as the Westin North America Hotel of the Year by Starwood Hotels & Resorts, placing it at the top of 146 Westin hotels in North America. The hotel offers more than 30,000 square feet of meeting and event space, with the restored opulence of the Venetian and Crystal ballrooms and the famed Italian Garden. The new and spacious Woodward Ballroom has a contemporary look and vehicle accessibility. Guests can enjoy casual dining at 24grille, The Boulevard Room, and the WBC Gourmet Grab & Go, or relax in the elegant Motor Bar.
The Book — the perfect destination for renewal.
Traverse City
800-940-1120
www.traversecity.com
Whether hosting large conventions, mid-sized meetings, small corporate retreats, or athletic events, Traverse City offers an eclectic mix of lodging, meeting, and sporting venues that will ensure a successful — and inspirational — experience!
Over the years, this Michigan coastal retreat has made the transition from a rustic “Up North” resort town to a charmingly sophisticated small city. Its hotel and resort sleeping rooms number nearly 5,000, while meeting and event venues range from beautifully restored historic landmarks and stunning waterfront properties to full-service resorts and conference centers.
With hiking and biking trails, championship golf courses, ski slopes, and hundreds of miles of shoreline — including the majestic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore — the Traverse City region offers year-round outdoor recreation. Specialty shops, boutiques, art galleries, and concert halls offer plenty of indoor options, as well.
Traverse City is a famous wine-producing region, boasting more than 30 wineries and tasting rooms. It is also winning national acclaim for its fresh, imaginative regional cuisine. Bon Appetit magazine has named it one of the country’s Top Five Foodie Towns.
For information on hosting your next meeting or event in Traverse City, please contact the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-940-1120 or www.traversecity.com.
Cliff Bell’s
2030 Park Ave., Detroit, MI 48226
313-961-2543
www.cliffbells.com
info@cliffbells.com
The scene has all the charm of 1930s Art Deco glamour; rich wood and glowing notes of gold create a laid-back, intimate setting. The sound echoes the rhythm of the city’s finest jazz. Craft cocktails flow from the bar as you prepare for a delectable meal that marries the essence of French and Southern American flavors. Whether you’re planning your next dinner party, stopping in for brunch, meeting friends for happy hour, or swinging to some jazz, Cliff Bell’s has a unique experience for everyone. Look no further — “There is Only One Cliff Bell’s.” Are you ready for the experience?
Skyline Club
2000 Town Center, Southfield, MI 48075
248-350-9898
www.TheSkylineClub.com
For 25 years, Skyline Club has been known as metro Detroit’s most business-friendly venue. “Skyline provides me with a professional setting in which to entertain clients and develop new partnerships,” says 22-year Club Member Bill Liebold, president of The Liebold Group LLC, “and the complimentary dining benefit is a smart way to save on dining expenses.”
Skyline is part of ClubCorp’s extensive network of private clubs located across the U.S. and abroad. “Skyline is the most affordable private club in our area, and the golf and dining privileges extend well beyond its four walls. My benefits are as mobile as I am,” says 15-year Club Member Michael Kaszubski, president of ReGroup Advisors.
For more information about membership, contact Richelle Tragge at 248-350-9898, ext. 311, or email richelle.tragge@ourclub.com.
General Motors Heritage Center
6400 Center Drive, Sterling Heights, MI 48312
586-276-1498
www.gmheritagecenter.com
Looking for the Best of Detroit? The General Motors Heritage Center offers a unique venue for meetings and special events for groups of up to 500. Our main 100′ x 50′ meeting space is nestled among nearly 200 historic and concept vehicles that are significant to GM and automotive history — perfect for anyone who enjoys strolling down memory lane!
Because it is not open to the public, the GM Heritage Center offers your guests an exclusive opportunity to view the GM Collection, a private assembly of the best of General Motors’ design, engineering, and sales. Showroom favorites — like the 1938 Buick Y-Job, the world’s first concept car; the 1959 Cadillac Eldorado, which features the tallest fin produced by GM; and the 1912 Cadillac, the first automobile with an electric starter — are sure to impress your guests.
Our spacious presentation area features a high-quality audio visual system, programmable lighting, wireless Internet, and comfortable seating for your meeting, event, or special activity. Full-service catering, valet, and a host of other event services are available to fulfill the custom nature of your event. Our highly adaptable room, in a unique setting, offers something new and exciting: A venue that exhibits the best of Detroit and the Motor City.
The Henry Hotel
300 Town Center Drive, Dearborn, MI 48126
313-441-2000
www.behenry.com
This year, The Henry was named Michigan’s No. 1 hotel by U.S. News & World Report. Experience the epitome of elegance and sophistication in our newly renovated guestrooms and luxurious suites. This AAA Four Diamond hotel is conveniently located only three miles from The Henry Ford, America’s greatest history attraction, and only 12 miles from downtown Detroit’s sports venues and casinos.
Weekend escape packages are available, including The Henry Ford Package, with tickets to two attractions; to the Romance Package, enhanced with a rose petal turndown service, tuxedo chocolate strawberries, and sparkling wine. Both packages feature a full breakfast for two.
Indulge your palate at TRIA, where you’ll find inspired American cuisine designed for tasting and sharing. Savor our unique culinary creations and sample wines from our extensive selection.
Ocean Prime
2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy, MI 48084
248-458-0500
oceanprimetroy.com
Ocean Prime, a modern American supper club celebrating its fifth anniversary, is the perfect location to hold meetings and special events. Three stunning private dining rooms accommodate 18 to 60 guests who will savor Executive Chef Adam Polisei’s masterful culinary creations. From the freshest and most flavorful fish to tender, juicy cuts of prime beef, Ocean Prime has something to please every palate. Add handcrafted cocktails made by well trained bar chefs, an award-winning wine list, seamless service, and genuine hospitality to create a world-class dining experience with timeless elegance. The Blu Lounge piano bar complete with live entertainment is ideal for more relaxed gatherings, while the expansive outdoor terrace offers a beautiful atmosphere for al fresco dining.
Ocean Prime is at the corner of Big Beaver and Coolidge, 2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy, and serves lunch weekdays and dinner nightly. For reservations, visit oceanprimetroy.com or call 248-458-0500.
Coach Insignia
GM Renaissance Center, 71 & 72 Floor, Detroit, MI 48243
313-567-2622
www.theepicureangroup.com
Towering 700 feet above the city streets, high atop the GM Renaissance Center, Coach Insignia has a reputation for serving delicious cuisine that is as stellar as its location. The epitome of the contemporary steakhouse, Coach Insignia’s award-winning chefs prepare elegant, modern cuisine that is paired with world-class wine or your favorite spirit by our resident sommelier. The wine cellar boasts nearly 1,000 selections and is one of the most extensive collections in Michigan.
Few locations in Detroit can offer such a stunning backdrop for business meetings, holiday parties, weddings, and other special events. With panoramic windows overlooking the Detroit and Windsor skyline, wine selections from every corner of the world, and Michigan’s best seasonal food prepared to your specifications, you and your guests will experience a truly memorable time.
Coach Insignia has earned four star ratings from both the Detroit Free Press and The Detroit News, the “Best of” Award from Hour Detroit, exemplary scores from Zagat International, as well as “Official Best Dining Experience in Michigan,” and “Best of Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator.
Gastronomy
1 Towne Square, Southfield, MI 48076
248-864-4410
www.theepicureangroup.com
American ingredients sautéed, seared, glazed, emulsified, braised, and constructed into housemade artistic fare. Defined as the art or science of good eating, Gastronomy redefines the dining experience, combining a visionary creativity with cutting-edge culinary techniques to offer menus unlike any other. A true pioneer they are exclusive, insisting that no kitchen ingredients, or wines served, come from foreign soil, including staple items such as salt, olive oil and coffee.
Three private banquet rooms allow for a truly unique experience and can accommodate parties from 2-40 people. Perfect for corporate meetings, social gatherings, networking events, anniversaries, retirement or rehearsal dinners, and even strolling weddings. Innovation at its finest, divine cuisine and exceptional service is awaiting you at Gastronomy, Metro Detroit’s distinct modern American bistro.
Gastronomy has earned four-star ratings from the Detroit Free Press and recently won the “Best of” Award from Hour Detroit and the “Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator.
Northern Lakes Seafood Restaurant
5498 Crooks Rd., Troy, MI 48098
248-646-7900
www.theepicureangroup.com
Fresh seafood, impeccably prepared, flawlessly served, has the power to satisfy the palate and stir the soul. The Northern Lakes Seafood Restaurant has fresh fish and seafood flown in daily – from ports in Boston, Hawaii, Florida and the Great Lakes – to serve as the centerpiece of delicious cuisine prepared from scratch by our award-winning chefs. For the land lovers, we also offer Chairman’s Reserve® certified premium beef perfectly prepared to your taste.
Paired with fine wines, eclectic or comfortable, every meal at The Northern Lakes has the potential to spark a greater love of authentic seafood dining. Winning accolades from critics and diners alike, Northern Lakes brings its culinary expertise to a new generation of diners, serving business groups, wedding guests, social gatherings and other celebrations in a setting that can be as formal or casual as you like.
Northern Lakes Seafood Restaurant recently won the “Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator.
Northern Lakes Seafood Restaurant is moving to Troy in the fall of 2013.
Novi Chophouse
27000 Karevich Drive, Novi, MI 48377
248-305-5210
www.theepicureangroup.com
Mouth-watering steaks, elegantly prepared and presented, await you at the timeless Novi Chophouse. Hand-selected and perfectly seared in a custom-designed 1700° broiler, our chefs bring out the best in every beef entrée. Seafood and shellfish are also on the menu, cooked in the classic chophouse style for a flavor that complements, yet never overpowers the delicate nuances of each dish.
Select a wine pairing for your meal from the award-winning wine list, recognized throughout southeastern Michigan for its depth and breadth. Located in the Crowne Plaza, it’s the ideal location for corporate events, retirement or rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, weddings, and family celebrations. Our comfortable booths can also make for a romantic evening for two. For a truly unique event, host dinner and a movie in the attached amphitheater. The possibilities are truly endless when you select the Novi Chophouse.
Novi Chophouse recently won the “Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator and is also honored to be rated in the Top 10 Michigan restaurants by the internationally recognized Zagat Guide.