West Virginia Executive Winter 2018 | Page 94

Event Planning written by blair dowler C ompany retreats can carry a stigma that overshadows the event’s intended productivity. At the mention of a retreat, employees may relate these required events to being stuck in a stuffy room for hours on end, and when this becomes the reality, productivity is a pipe dream. Retreats are company investments intended to result in idea generation, problem solving and team building, but when the venue fails to inspire creativity and comradery, the end result is a loss for everyone in attendance. In West Virginia, event planners will find a variety of meeting venues perfect for the next company get-together. Whether the need is for a quiet corner to disconnect from the world and reconnect as a team or a unique wilderness getaway to get those creative juices flowing, the Mountain State is the destination of choice. These tranquil retreats provide comfortable accommodations, team building exercises and rejuvenating scenery, creating an interruption-free getaway perfect for getting things done. Adventures on the Gorge Photo by Adventures on the Gorge. Photo by Adventures on the Gorge. activities, team building and catering all done in-house. The Lookout Post Conference Center at AOTG, which has windows on all sides, is encircled by the beauty of the gently rising and falling slopes of the mountains, offering a view unlike any other. Adventures on the Gorge’s (AOTG) facilities and surrounding vistas set the adventure resort apart from the traditional conference center experience with the venue, lodging, 10 2 0 1 8 D i sc o v e r Wes t V i rg i n i a Through the time spent together at this remarkable and dramatic location, ideas easily begin to flow. Rather than stepping out of a hotel into a corridor, the variety of cabins—from rustic to luxury—opens directly into the outdoors. Walking across the campus provides time for reflection and immersion in nature, making it a special spot to regroup and focus on business goals. If team building is on the agenda, goal- oriented activities abound at AOTG. On a rafting trip, paddle together to make it through the rapids. During an aerial adventure, support co-workers through the trepidation of being so high off the ground. While on a climbing excursion, encourage each other to go higher. Regardless of the activity, the sense of fun and competitiveness will come naturally.