West Virginia Executive Winter 2019 | Page 92

Event Planning written by jean hardiman High-Five west virginia event venues S ervice, modern amenities, elegance, recreation, ambience: West Virginia’s meeting venues offer something special for every event—and every person. From the art lover to the outdoor enthusiast to the foodie looking to top the last exquisite meal, visitors easily find a wealth of culture, adventure, beauty and cuisine in the Mountain State, and for those attending a meeting or conference, West Virginia’s event venues provide an experience to remember. Bavarian Inn Bavarian Brothers Brewery. Photo by Bavarian Inn. opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The inn’s infinity edge pool and companion bar overlook the river and lush greenery. Tennis and bocce enthusiasts will find the necessary amenities for a friendly match, and guests looking to unwind will appreciate a seat by the outdoor firepit. Golfers will enjoy a round at Cress Creek Country Club a quarter-mile away, and adventure seekers will find whitewater rafting, zip lining and an aerial park within 12 miles. For more information on hosting an event, contact Brenda Morrison at (304) 876-0415 or visit www.bavarianinnwv.com. Brad D. Smith Foundation Hall The Bavarian Inn’s Terrace meeting space. Photo by Bavarian Inn. A taste of Europe can be found along the Potomac River in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle at the Bavarian Inn, a boutique resort in Shepherdstown. Featuring 72 hotel rooms and distinct dining experiences, the Bavarian Inn’s conference space accommodates up to 150 guests for weddings, corporate retreats, team building and more. It provides state-of-the-art audiovisual offerings and an on-site IT director, as well as full catering menus, break-out options for meetings and boxed carry- out meals. In late 2018, the inn unveiled a new lounge area and added Bavarian Brothers Brewing, an on-site brewery that offers tours, beer samples and beer dinners. Its pub provides an additional dining room with a casual but creative menu. The charm of the European-inspired resort is enhanced by its surroundings with a variety of convenient recreation 8 2 0 1 9 D i sc o v e r Wes t V i rg i n i a Brad D. Smith Foundation Hall. Photo by Kristin Gail. Those searching for a picturesque indoor facility for any event—showers, weddings, meet and greets or conferences—will find what they need on Marshall University’s campus at the Brad D. Smith Foundation Hall. This stand-alone nonprofit facility is a popular Huntington venue that can accommodate up to 400 standing guests. The hall works with six well-established local caterers and in 2017 upgraded its audiovisual offerings to high- definition TVs and a Panasonic laser projector with a new screen, multiple input locations and microphones. An on-site event planner can direct clients to caterers, photographers, florists, rentals and music and DJ options.