Hi, everyone! This is Jennilee, the convention sales director for the Abilene CVB, checking in with you all. It’s been awhile since my last blog post, but I’ve been a busy gal. On a day-to-day basis, I am hard at work trying to get groups and meetings to come to our great city. This may mean phone calls, emails, bid presentations or even a site visit or two. Inviting the decision makers to visit Abilene is key to building a relationship with them. In addition, when they see our city through their eyes and not through a piece of printed literature, it brings to mind that old phrase, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Or in this case, “A site visit is worth more than a thousand written proposals.”

For those of you who aren’t familiar with what a site visit is, the convention and visitors bureau pre-qualifies and arranges these visits in advance. Generally, we have already prepared a full proposal for their consideration and know if we can accommodate the group or event. During a 1-2 day time frame, an ACVB staff person greets and escorts the guests to meeting facilities, hotels, attractions and additional points of interest related to their group.

After the site visit and sale, our devoted convention services director, Hester Woods, takes the reins. She works with the meeting planners every step of the way—from beginning to end—A to Z! All of the ACVB services are complimentary if the group or convention is picking up hotel room nights. In addition to Abilene’s hospitality, planners often say, “It’s like having another staff person that you don’t have to pay!”

Check out this great testimonial given by Lesa Crosswhite, the Taylor County Treasurer. She hosted over 200 county treasurers from across the state at the MCM Elegante several weeks ago and gives a great kudos to them, as well as, the Abilene CVB. This convention brought in over $72,000 to our local economy.

If you are a planner and are interested in our city as a prospective meeting or event site, feel free to call our office at 800-727-7704 or email me at jennilee@abilenevisitors.com.

Happy Travels!

Did you know that Abilene has over 3 million visitors each year? Many visitors come to see friends and family, attend conventions, sporting events or just enjoy a weekend get-away. Why is it that we, as locals, don’t take advantage of our city’s entertainment and treasures? I think it is often human nature to think that the grass is greener anywhere else than in our own backyard.

I encourage you…if you (local or visitor) haven’t visited Abilene’s fine attractions, such as Frontier Texas!, 625 N. 1^st St., please do so! For instance, this incredible, state-of-the-art museum depicts the Texas frontier between the 1780s to 1880s. Plus, provides a fun, teachable moment and excellent entertainment for all—from the young to young at heart!

I look forward to sharing all that Abilene has to offer with you—especially showcasing our meeting facilities and 2010-2011 incentives!