Tips from the Pros: We Like the Way They Move It

The next time you need to move a group from point A to point B, get creative. We asked three seasoned pros for ways that they have made the moving memorable.

Lisa Marie Borchert
immediate past president, ISES Minneapolis-St. Paul Chapter

Consider the circumstances. When Borchert faced an event with limited parking space and a need for guests to easily move around, she looked past bus and limo options, deciding instead on less traditional golf carts.

Think thematically. This event centered on Gilligan's Island, so Borchert looped the theme song in each of the carts, instantly creating a fun first impression. As the guests boarded, they instantly knew they were in for an afternoon like no other.

Peter P. Provost
owner, Propel Event Transportation Management LLC

Variety is the spice of life. Provost jumped at the opportunity to showcase his transportation business at ISES's 2009 dine-around, choosing four modes of transit to prove there's more than one way to move a group.

Stretch it out. A deluxe limousine-style coach accommodates up to 30 guests and is equipped with premium lighting, sound and three flat-panel LED HD televisions with mobile satellite technology- making it ideal for wedding parties and high-end corporate affairs alike. On the other hand, a midsized coach with airline-style seating for up to 33 guests is perfect for groups heading to out of town events. The creature comforts of six televisions, wireless Internet and a lavatory make long trips a breeze.

Throwback. A more unique mode of transportation featured was the 1970s fully restored bus, with seating for 33 guests. Provost highlighted the benefit that two doors offer, making loading and unloading fast and easy.

Class act. Finally, Provost offered a fully restored 1940s transit bus. A head-turning classic, he suggests this set of wheels for special events like corporate picnics or family reunions.

Larry Shiller
president, DayTours & CreativEvents

Size matters. Obviously, the number of passengers has a major influence on the final decision. A large tour group may call for a double-decker bus, or an open-air trolley could work for smaller groups. But other events might be creatively managed with a horse and sleigh, or even a boat. Think beyond the basics for all your options.

Set the tone. Shiller reminds planners that in many cases, transportation is both the first indication and last impression guests have of the event. Make it count.

Do it right. Transportation must be on time, well managed, friendly and convenient, Shiller says. He suggests calling a destination management company if you're not sure whether a vendor has a dependable track record.

Get Connected:

DayTours & CreativEvents // 651.481.1581 / www.daytoursmn.com

Propel Event Transportation Management LLC // 612.501.2651 / www.propeleventtransportation.com