Courtesy Eaglewood Resort and Spa
Multiple meetings the norm
But typically, meetings are small, between 25 and 75 people. About 60 percent of business is corporate, and much of that corporate business involves training or education.
Groups from Chicago are, not surprisingly, the resort’s biggest market, followed by New York, New Jersey and California, a reflection of Eaglewood’s central Midwestern location and its proximity to O’Hare International.
On weekends, the resort “changes hats,” as Berry likes to say, and shifts to group business that is more social in nature, such as reunions and church retreats.
As it often has multiple clients in its conference center, staff are careful to make sure groups will not conflict. A sales meeting with exuberant staff would be set apart from a computer training session, for example.
Eaglewood’s amenities are enjoyed by both corporate and SMERF clients. When the 18-hole golf course is closed, typically from late November to April 1, the resort’s golf simulator is a good option. It allows golfers to play virtually on a number of well-known courses.
More popular than golf is the resort’s six-lane bowling alley, housed with the fitness center, the golf simulator and the indoor pool in a building separate from the main resort.
“The bowling alley is a great hook. It is Brunswick equipment; there is a full bar,” said Berry. “It is more popular for our groups than the golf course because everyone can bowl.”
With its first decade coming to a close, the resort continues to keep up with the times. For the third time in nine years, it has increased its Internet band width, a nod to the growing use of tablet computers. It will freshen meeting space early this year with new carpet and wall coverings. Frank Lloyd Wright’s style is always kept in mind during such redecorating projects.
“We talk about that when we do upgrades and renovations. It is important to stay with that synergy,” said Berry.
The resort’s architecture though is only part of what sets it apart from other area conference hotels and resorts. Berry likes to remind her staff that Eaglewood is not your typical suburban property.
“I always tell them, ‘We are the orange among the apples,’” she said.
Eaglewood Resort and Spa
www.eaglewoodresort.com
