As you're reading this, I’m on my way to Morganville, New Jersey - home of Sweet Honey Farm - where we’ll host our Longevity Retreat for Inner Circle Mastermind clients this June.

(I moonlight as founder and editor in chief of Salesgirl Social. My day job is Brand Director for The Salesgirls.)

The retreat venue itself is locked in. We already know it’s the right place.

But today’s trip is about everything around it. We’re walking through nearby hotels. Scouting restaurants. Making sure every touchpoint (from check-in to dinner) is aligned with the experience we want to create.

Not because it’s fun content. (It is and we’ll get it.)
Not because we don’t trust the photos. (You really can’t, ever.)
Not because we’re bored and needed a business trip. (It wouldn’t be to NJ, no offense.)

We’re here because the vibe of a space changes the outcome of the event.

And no amount of florals or beautifully designed Canva slides can make up for:
bad lighting… weird smells… too much noise… a staff that makes your guests feel like a bother… or a space that doesn’t match the mood you’re trying to create.

We learned this the hard way in Boise, Idaho last year.

We booked the nicest hotel in the city. Swanky lobby. Gorgeous light fixtures.

Got my room key ready for a solo night in a luxurious hotel room (hellloooo is this heaven) and nobody could tell me nothing.

And then we got off the elevator.

The guest floors hadn’t been renovated yet. The carpet was crunchy. The hallway smelled like a middle school locker room (Cucumber Melon body spray and not in the good way). And the energy? Not it.

It hurt. Our pride and our noses.

So now? We always do a site visit.

Because when you’re creating an experience for women, you don’t just need a “nice” venue. You need a space that’s right for your event, your attendees and your brand.

Here’s what we’re looking for on site today:

• How does the space greet you when you arrive?

• Is there natural light? Privacy? Quiet corners?

• Are the guest rooms clean? Beds comfy?

• What’s the energy of the staff?

• Would the women be able to relax here? Is there a construction site next door?

• Is it an easy ride from the airport to the hotel? Or is it roadwork the whole way?

• Where will transportation need to pick everyone up?

• Are there places nearby to eat with plenty of space or outdoor areas?

Google Maps won’t tell you that the 8th floor hasn’t been renovated yet or that it might also be haunted.

If you're planning an event, big or small, don’t skip the site visit. 

Xo, The Salesgirls