Meetings

Meeting Planning Tips: The Real Differences Between Meeting Packages and a la Carte Options

stonewall resort package options

If you’re new to the world of meeting planning, you’ve probably discovered that planning an event can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to making decisions that fit within your budget while ensuring your attendees have a memorable experience. 

At Stonewall Resort, we understand the importance of flexibility when it comes to accommodating your unique needs. That’s why we offer two distinct options: packages and a la carte pricing. 

In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons to help you make the right choice for your upcoming event.

Meeting Planning Tips – Choosing the Right Plan for Your Needs

Meeting Packages

Packages are created to simplify planning by offering a comprehensive package at a set price per person. Typically, a package covers everything you need for the day (or days), including food, beverages, room rental, and basic audiovisual equipment.

There are several benefits to choosing a package.

  • Budget-Friendly Planning: One of the most significant advantages of opting for a package is its predictability to your budget. With a fixed cost per attendee, you can easily plan and allocate your funds without unexpected surprises.
  • Cost Savings: Packages are designed to offer significant cost savings compared to a la carte pricing. By bundling services like meeting space, accommodations, and meals together, you’ll get more value for your investment.
  • Stress-Free Meal Planning: When you choose a package, you don’t have to worry about creating a menu from scratch. The property’s culinary team will plan meals, ensuring your attendees are treated to delicious and satisfying options throughout their stay.
  • Effortless Breaks: Packages often include breaks, making it hassle-free to keep your attendees refreshed and energized. You won’t need to coordinate snacks or beverages separately—it’s all part of the package.

Meeting packages often take the stress out of planning and budgeting, allowing you to focus on the overall goals of your event.  

Here at Stonewall, we offer The Benchmark Conference Plan with pricing inclusive of all applicable service charges and includes the following:

  1. Overnight accommodations.
  2. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner in our Stillwater’s Restaurant, served kiosk-style, starting with dinner on the night of arrival and ending with lunch on the day of departure. *Private banquets are available at an additional charge. Banquet guarantees are required three (3) working days before your event.
  3. Our signature continuous morning and afternoon refreshment break services.
  4. General Session and Conference Rooms set to Group specifications featuring ergonomically designed chairs, pads, pencils, ice water, and candies to accommodate meeting participants. Additional charges may be incurred for staging, exhibits, additional tables, skirting, or other set-up requests beyond standard meeting requirements
  5. Audio-Visual package for general session room to include (one of each item per 50 attendees): flipchart with markers, a podium with standard microphone, audio mixer and connection, and on-site technical support. 
  6. Parking – Self-parking is available and is free of charge for all BCP participants.
  7. All set-up charges and services charges on the package components.
  8. A Conference Planning Manager to assist in all aspects of planning and event execution.

Learn more about West Virginia Conferences and Meetings >>

A La Carte Plans

A la carte is just what it sounds like – priced per item. Think of it as a menu where every item you request has a separate price tag. Each aspect incurs costs, from food and beverages to audiovisual equipment and room rental.

A la carte pricing is not for every group, but it can be an excellent choice for some of the below circumstances:

  • Smaller Groups: If you’re organizing a meeting for fewer than ten people, a la carte pricing may be the better choice. Smaller groups allow you to tailor every aspect of your event to your exact specifications.
  • Dietary Restrictions: A la carte pricing is ideal for attendees with specific dietary needs. It allows you to work closely with our culinary team to craft custom menus that accommodate everyone’s preferences and restrictions.
  • Themed or Wow Factor: If you’re looking to create a truly unique and memorable experience, a la carte pricing gives you the freedom to design a themed event that wows your attendees. Whether it’s a special décor setup, a themed menu, or unique entertainment, you have the flexibility to make it happen.
  • Upgrade to Private Meals: A la carte pricing allows you to upgrade to private dining experiences, ensuring an intimate and exclusive atmosphere for your group. Whether it’s a VIP dinner or a special celebration, you can create an upscale ambiance.
stonewall resort executive retreat

Stonewall Resort’s a la carte pricing includes these options:

  1. Overnight accommodations.
  2. Food and Beverage options
  3. Refreshment break options
  4. Conference Rooms set to Group specifications featuring ergonomically designed chairs and banquet style chairs, pads, pencils, ice water, and candies to accommodate meeting participants.
  5. Audio-Visual – Contracted through Five Star Audio Visual
  6. A 21% service charge will be applied to all conference services and group food and beverage.
  7. A Conference Planning Manager to assist in all aspects of planning, as well as event execution

Choosing between packages and a la carte pricing at Stonewall Resort ultimately depends on the size of your group, your budget, and your event goals. Packages are perfect for cost-effective, stress-free planning, while a la carte pricing offers customization and a touch of luxury for smaller gatherings. Whichever option you choose, rest assured that our dedicated team is here to make your event a success.

If you have any questions or need assistance in making the right choice for your meeting, don’t hesitate to reach out to us here. We look forward to helping you plan an unforgettable event at Stonewall Resort!

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