Planning an event or meeting in Albuquerque offers a unique set of opportunities and challenges. From the city's rich cultural tapestry to its distinct climate, there are plenty of ways to incorporate the city’s best elements into an unforgettable event. Tisha Aldredge, event planner for the School of Medicine at the University of New Mexico, shares some essential tips and tricks to ensure your event is a standout success in Albuquerque.
Embrace Albuquerque’s Unique Characteristics
Albuquerque is a city like no other with its vibrant mix of cultural events, natural beauty and historic charm. When organizing an event, the key is to tap into what makes the city special. “From the Balloon Fiesta to the pueblos to the outdoor adventures, we have so much to offer,” says Aldredge. “If you can plan around an event, that would be the best thing to do.” Check Visit Albuquerque’s online calendar of events for a complete schedule of upcoming fairs, festivals and celebrations in the city. If you can’t plan around an event, then Aldredge suggests that meeting planners “go to the museums or plan something outdoors. I don’t think anyone could go wrong coming here anytime of the year.” From Native American dances and art at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to Hispanic traditions in historic Old Town and at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, meeting planners can immerse their attendees in Albuquerque’s rich and diverse heritage.
Create Relationships with Vendors and Suppliers
Successful event planning relies on building strong relationships with vendors and suppliers. Building long-term partnerships with local vendors can also provide ongoing advantages and support. “I have always been of the mindset that you can’t do an event on your own; you have to have these partners and relationships,” says Aldredge. “When you are negotiating with other businesses, you have to remember they are doing what they need to for their business, just as you are doing for yours. If you can maintain that relationship, then you will be successful.”
Select the Perfect Sized Venue
The city is home to a diverse range of venues from the ASM Global-managed Albuquerque Convention Center to large full-service hotels to more intimate, unique spaces. Aldredge suggests considering the space requirements and the type of event that will be hosted. “We have a large variety of hotels that are full service, but if you are looking for something smaller it doesn’t necessarily need to be in a hotel,” says Aldredge. “We’ve got a variety of venues that you can use, such as the Balloon Fiesta Park, where you can have a learning experience or a meal function inside the Balloon Museum and then utilize the outside space for a 5K run or something like that.” The Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum features award-winning architecture and a variety of rooms suitable for everything from a board meeting to a banquet, and Balloon Fiesta Park is an 86-acre grass field perfect for recreational and sporting events as well as festivals.
Work with a Destination Marketing Organization
Working with a Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) can be a helpful resource when planning an event or meeting as they offer invaluable local expertise that can significantly streamline the planning process. “I have lived here all of my life so I like to think I know Albuquerque, however there is still stuff that I come across that [Visit Albuquerque] helps with,” says Aldredge. “It’s great to have that partnership to help bring events and conferences together here. I know I have a resource that I can go to that will help me with those logistics.”
