MPI Carolinas Chapter – March Meeting

1. MPI Carolinas Chapter – March Meeting Saving the World One Meeting at a Time: A Beginning to End Look at Green Meetings During this session, you will learn the steps to take to build a green meeting from conception to the post-con report. We will look at events from the planner side and cover goals and objectives, budget, Request for Proposal, contract negotiation, venue selection, accommodations, transportation, food and beverage, exhibits, registration, marketing, on – site, and Return on Investment report. However, we will also look at green meetings from a supplier perspective. We will discuss what is green catering, what are eco friendly linens, what should hotels be doing in each department. This session will have hints and ideas that you can start doing the minute you get back to the office. Mixed into all of this, we will delve into carbon footprints, Energy Star, LEED, community service and new trends in the green industry. This will be a fun, interactive session for anyone who wants to save the world, one meeting at a time! At the end of this session, attendee will be able to… • Explain what a green meeting is. • Identify the elements needed to design and execute a green meeting. • Recognizing ways to save money while still being socially responsible. Amanda Gourgue, CMP, LEED AP Chief Meeting Revolutionist Amanda is an active member in the hospitality community. She is a member of the Board of Directors for USGBC – NH Chapter, contributes to the MPI Community Membership Advisory Council, and participates on the food and beverage subcommittees for APEX Green Standards. In April 2009, MeetingNews recognized Amanda as one of the top 30 meeting professionals under 30 in the United States. Amanda also is the only Certified Meeting Professional who has earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design designation.