Sticker price for your retreat facilities isn't the only factor you need to use when choosing a retreat facility... Maybe you'd like to go tent camping and wake up to fuzzy wuzzy... Maybe not...
When comparing retreat facilities... compare the meeting and lodging facilities, but when it comes to rates make sure you ask what is and is not included in the basic fee. Answering these questions will help you level the playing field between different rate plans and help your group choose a retreat facility based on the value of the offerings and how the will help you meet their event ministry goals.
- Is there an extra charge for use of meeting facilities?
- Do you provide your own audio/visual equipment such as a DVD, projector, and a sound system?
Will the facility provide it?
Is there an additional charge for using the property's AV service?
What about additional travel expenses to send a team to set-up equipment if the facility wont set-up for us?
- What recreational activities are available?
Does the rate include the facility & necessary equipment?
Do some activities cost extra?
- Is a separate speaker’s room available?
Does it cost more than the normal lodging facilities?
- Are linens available or do we bring our own bedding?
If linens are provided, will the bed be made up by you or the housekeeping staff?
It is best to not make assumptions. Ask questions. You will have a better retreat experience if all of these details and questions are worked out before you arrive at the site - better yet, before you sign a contract.
Written by Jenny Lenczycki
Choose a location
Choosing a location that will properly accommodate the retreat as well as provide the amenities needed to accompany this event is important. One thing is for sure, not all Retreat & Conference Centers are created equally!
During the last two months I'm sure you have spent quite a bit of time in and out of stores, restaurants, and traveling. You probably have a few stories of a clerk or waiter who went above and beyond to help you and a couple of someone who treated very poorly. At each of our Midwest Christian Retreats properties we work all year long with our staff and volunteers to create a culture centered-around serving guest with love.
Written by Jenny Lenczycki
In most instances, the apparent difference to the event planner is the price structure, most Christian Conference Centers work on package plans (per person price for the entire retreat), whereas Hotels charge a rate per room, meeting room, and meals.
Written by Jenny Lenczycki
We're trying to cut costs this year. Our group has always gone to a hotel for our events, some people on our planning team have suggested a Christian Conference Center. What is the difference and how would a Christian Conference Center be a better choice for our group?
