Would you prefer to sit in a ballroom and listen to a procession of speakers at a podium all day long? Or would you want to mix it up, using a blend of outdoor spaces, games, and interactive sessions.

Meetings don’t look like they used to. Social Tables acknowledges this trend by helping us understand the collective power of the Millennial generation who today are generally ages 28 to 43.

Did you know? More than one-in-three American labor force participants (35%) are Millennials. This puts us as the largest generation in the workplace, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data.

When it comes to conferences and special event trends, where should you, as a meeting industry professional, put your focus?

Cater to Millennials

Since the meeting industry is shaped by attendee expectations, successful events employ the ideals of the Millennial generation.

What do Millennials want? We value networking! We want experiences and we’ll share them on social media. And we travel well. Even though we have a higher technological literacy than generations before us, we still value face-to-face gatherings.

• • At the Richmond Hill City Center, consider hosting an event at The Veranda, an indoor/outdoor space for up to 200 guests appreciated for its spacious and breezy ambiance. The Veranda is screened in and overlooks the historic wetlands and private gardens with direct access to the outdoor Patio. Comfortable, cushioned furniture invites guests to relax and chat.

Of course, your meeting has a purpose. But will it be memorable and offer cultural experiences? The trend-watchers with IACC, a global community of people delivering innovative meeting experiences polled that 80% of event planners say their jobs involve more experience creation than they did several years ago.

• • Imagine hosting a Low Country Boil at The Richmond Hill City Center’s Garden & Patio. Up to 300 people can easily mingle in this versatile outdoor space in the heart of the park’s serene wetlands. Who wouldn’t travel for that?!
• • Host scavenger hunts, candlelight happy hours, and catered picnics on the lawn.

Travel Well

Your guests will be just 12 miles from Savannah and 17 miles from the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport – recently voted Best U.S. Airport by Condé Nast Traveler readers.

• • Pre-arrange for local Lyft and Uber drivers to meet your guests at the airport and deliver them to their accommodation – getting to know a local resident gives greater insight into the region.
• • Arrange a Savannah Trolley Tour (several providers) or have bicycles available for riding between sessions and after the meeting/conference.

Let’s Break

Include breaks throughout the day so participants can work and relax. Food and beverage are key. Here at Richmond Hill City Center, Southern Hospitality is in our DNA. We are thinking of iced tea, lemonade, finger foods like deviled eggs, vegetable wraps, local shrimp, and oysters, when in season. Catering is vital, so design your breaks with dietary considerations, diverse options, and everyone will feel the love.

Celebrate Your Event on Social Media

While the event is live and in action, post about it! Share your fun, the successes within the event, the people who attend. You’re creating a positive company image. Create Reels and use captions. Show off your vibes and attract new friends, new clients, and deepen relationships.

The Richmond Hill City Center is a beautifully customizable special event space with flowering gardens and sublime views. We are the Georgia Coast’s most centralized all-inclusive events venue, central among the cities of Savannah, Statesboro, Pooler, and Brunswick. To chat with one of our team members, call us at (912) 445-0043 and email us at sales@thewildermangroup.com.