Understanding the meeting package

Conference Centers often make it easy for meeting planners to custom design their gatherings to meet any budget and specifications because they offer various meeting packages, a simplified planning process and value-added amenities for their meetings.  While the Complete Meeting Package (CMP) is sometimes a bit too rigid, many properties deliver needed flexibility by offering Daily Meeting Packages (DMPs), Guestroom Packages and Modified Meeting Packages (MMPs).  These prices are fixed, per-person fees and include most aspects of a meeting, such as general session space, audio visual, food and accommodations.  Conference centers are oftentimes equipped to provide additional receptions, dinners, team building activities and events as add-ons to meetings as well.  

Many conference centers also provide centralized break areas.  These break areas are conveniently located outside meeting spaces throughout the property and offer a variety of snacks as well as a place for guests to socialize and network with one another.  Typically, a morning break will consist of items found on a continental breakfast, and afternoon breaks will include sweet and salty snacks, healthy options and refreshing drinks.  Conference center meeting packages typically include breakfast, lunch and dinner, served in a dining room setting.  The idea is that properties can provide a value-added package, and meet many different dietary needs, by providing meals to all guests from the same menu in the same space.  This idea of serving many meeting guests from different groups in a central atmosphere helps limit staffing levels and food waste, therefore providing value for planners’ budgets. 

Another feature at most conference centers is their AV capabilities.  Meeting rooms oftentimes have screens and projectors built in, and internet capabilities conducive for presentations, webcasting, simulcasting and more.  Computer labs, exhibitor areas and unique reception spaces are often found within conference center locations as well.  Ample square footage and multiple meeting rooms of various sizes are typical of conference centers, these various spaces can be utilized for additional breakout meetings and team building activities.  The convenience of onsite guestroom accommodations, recreation options, dining and outdoor space all add to the convenience of a conference center. 

At Maritime Conference Center we typically split the traditional CMP into two separate packages, the DMP and the Guestroom Package.  This allows a meeting planner to easily accommodate both local commuters and guests staying on property.  The DMP includes a general session meeting room, essential AV package (to include a laser projector, screen, two flip charts, podium, microphone, pens and notepads), access to the centralized break area in the morning and afternoon, and lunch served in our buffet-style dining room.  The Guestroom Package, for guests needing overnight accommodations, includes a clean, comfortable guestroom, dinner and breakfast served in our dining room, and access to our indoor heated swimming pool, recreation room and fitness center.  

Should all guests be staying on property, we can combine these two packages (the DMP and Guestroom Package) to create a full CMP.  There are also many times that a meeting does not fit into these traditional scenarios, so we create a MMP to ensure the planners’ needs are taken care of for a reasonable package price.         

Adding yet another aspect of value, Maritime Conference Center includes complimentary shuttle transportation from Baltimore Washington International Airport, Amtrak and Light Rail stations and complimentary parking. In addition, our proximity to Baltimore, Annapolis and DC allows your guests to explore attractions like Oriole Park at Camden Yards and the National Aquarium in Baltimore, waterfront shopping and dining in Annapolis and nation’s capital attractions like the National Mall, White House, Capitol Hill and more.

Host your next event at Maritime Conference Center, where our philosophy of “Hospitality Focused, Technology Driven™” ensures a standout function. Contact us at Conference_Sales@mccbwi.org or (866) 900-3517.