Off the Beaten Path
By: Maureen Leader
People today are remarkably busy; everyone’s time is at a premium, and event planners are all competing for that time. They must be strategic in choosing event venues in order to make it worthwhile for guests to choose to give up their time – and their money, to attend. A venue with a beige ballroom box is simply not going to be appealing enough. But in addition to that, today there is something else to consider: Safety. As venues begin the process of opening back up during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that guests feel secure that they will be safe while attending your event.
There is a lot to consider.
We have long been promoting the idea of holding events at venues that are out of the ordinary, special, and yes…unique. But what we have recently discovered is that these are the kind of venues that may actually be the safest during COVID-19.
We have picked three venues that showcase magnificent natural locations throughout the United States that guests will love to travel to. They are ideal for camps, retreats, religious gatherings, weddings, or even professional business team gatherings. They all provide wonderfully varied day or overnight accommodations, flexible gathering spaces, and customizable delicious culinary offerings. But perhaps, what is most important is the peace of mind all these venues will give your guests. Since they are "Off the Beaten Path" in rural areas, your guests can be safely physically distant. Additionally, all these venues are proud of their experienced, professional, and dedicated event teams. They are serious about following the current mandated protocols put forth by government agencies to keep everyone safe and comfortable. These venues each have their own unique aesthetic appeal, culture, atmosphere, and amenities. Your guests will want to travel to these venues to partake in your itinerary, as well as take advantage of all the exciting amenities and activities offered.
Bubbling Wells Ranch | Desert Hot Springs, CA
The possibilities for positive growth for your guests are truly endless at Bubbling Wells Ranch in Desert Hot Springs, California. The stunning 107 acres of lush landscaping is surrounded by 360-degree views of the Coachella Valley Desert, the San Jacinto Mountains, and the San Bernardino Mountain Ranges. The ranch is also located on an actual energy vortex– a natural swirling center of earthly energy, creating feelings of peace, harmony, and balance for your guests. Attendees at your event will feel more connected to themselves, as well as to something greater.
Bubbling Wells Ranch provides ample opportunities for your guests to immerse themselves in their health and wellness while being surrounded by the tranquility of this true desert oasis. The Ranch, though rustic, will be offering many pampering spa services, including seven center chakra service. The natural stone pools and ponds are fed by pristine mineral hot springs. Your guests will be further awed by the most gorgeous sunrises and sunsets they have ever seen. Bubbling Wells Ranch can help promote personal reflection, deep insight, and a clear mind for your guests.
Black Hills Retreat Center | Deadwood, SD
Black Hills Retreat Center in Deadwood, South Dakota is located on 60 breathtaking acres in the middle of the beautiful Black Hills National Forest. Its mission is for guests to escape, refresh, and feel the ever-present peace of God during their time there. Black Hills is very remote, surrounded by incredible natural beauty. Black Hills Retreat Center is the newest retreat center within the trusted Christian Retreats Network, so they have the experience and the resources to guide you to the ideal, safe retreat package. Your guests will have an unforgettable ministry event, and you will reach all your goals.
The inspiring Chapel at Black Hills is the main meeting space for up to 300 in a theater, conference, or classroom setup. It is aglow with natural light pouring through its oversized windows. The permanent stage and dedicated soundboard room is perfect for worship services while the balcony provides overflow or breakout space. Black Hills Retreat Center can also provide unique recreational activities for your group including zip lines and rock climbing. The dedicated retreat planners at Black Hills Retreat Center love to talk with planners about their vision and are eager to help you get started planning your perfect retreat experience.
The Kaplan Mitchell Retreat Center at Ramah Darom | Clayton, GA
The Kaplan Mitchell Retreat Center at Ramah Darom is a stunning 185-acre venue nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest. Though it is only a two-hour drive from Atlanta, guests will immediately feel the stress of their work-a-day world melt away as soon as they arrive.
During the summer, Ramah Darom is home to Camp Ramah for children. But during the rest of the year, mid-August through May, the property is open and welcoming to groups of all kinds: corporate retreats, board meetings, team getaways, or celebrations. Ramah Darom is the perfect venue for your guests to reconnect, refresh, learn, and build relationships. It is the go-to location for Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, corporate meetings, professional team building retreats, and many others.
Ramah Darom is located in a breathtaking mountain setting that will inspire your guests. There is a private waterfall, a sparkling lake, and majestic trees. At the center of your event activities at Ramah Darom is the state-of-the-art Kaplan Mitchell Retreat Center featuring over 20 unique and flexible meeting spaces. Your group will also have access to three dining rooms, a fitness center, a pool, and business center. There is even a treehouse! Add a session to your event schedule for time on the ropes courses, tennis courts, or more. Ramah Darom is completely ADA accessible for all ages and for all abilities.
For decades, the event planning team at Ramah Darom has had the tradition of selfless service to their guests, as well as to the greater community. They are happy to help you with ideas for your event or to arrange anything extra like rafting trips or visits to local wineries. Their goal is to help you to craft the unique experience you are envisioning for your event.
Instead of the everyday beige ballroom, plan your next function at one of these venues "Off the Beaten Path". They have everything you need for an unforgettable and successful event. Their expert teams are ready to hear from you today to help make your goals a reality, whatever they are. You can trust these venues, in unique locales, to inspire your guests — safely.