Event Planning
written by kenzie dye
Photo by Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center . Photo by Oglebay Resort Park .
GOURMET GATHERINGS
Culinary Excellence at Conferences
Photo by Blennerhassett Hotel & Spa .
West Virginia venues are redefining the conference dining experience . From locally inspired menus to personalized catering and innovative presentations , these locations prioritize quality and creativity .
Bavarian Inn Resort & Brewing Company
The Bavarian Inn Resort & Brewing Company prides itself on offering unique culinary experiences that set it apart from other conference spaces in West Virginia .
“ Many staples offered at the inn are traditional German fare and classic European cuisine ,” says Christian Asam , president of the Bavarian Inn Resort & Brewing Company .
Founders Erwin and Carol Asam , natives of Germany and England , influenced the menus early on , and many of the dishes and recipes are still featured today . However , as the inn has grown into a resorttype atmosphere , the menus have also evolved .
Christian says the inn ’ s catering team is happy to customize menus for larger events , such as conferences , where palates and dietary restrictions are diverse .
“ We are accustomed to managing dietary requests , allergies and special needs ,” he says . “ The process of planning a menu for a large event starts with our sales and catering office ’ s event menus . Our team will then meet with event planners to customize the perfect menu .”
As a boutique inn , the culinary team plays a vital role in the overall conference experience .
“ Our entire team works together from sales , culinary and operations to planning and executing events ,” Christian says . “ With an onsite brewery , Bavarian Brother ’ s Brewing , it is popular to integrate the brewery into events .”
Blennerhassett Hotel & Spa
“ Our events team wants to know what excites you so we can make the event unique to you ,” says Lee Eric Rector , owner and operator of
Blennerhassett Hotel & Spa .
The hotel offers custom-curated fare , personalized printed menus and flavors that align with any vision — and accommodating diverse dietary needs is a top priority .
“ Our culinary team is committed to meeting these restrictions without compromising flavor ,” Rector says . “ Offerings include glutenfree pasta and breads , non-dairy sauce alternatives and vegan and vegetarian substitutes that meet the Blennerhassett Hotel standard .”
Rector believes planning a menu for a large event should be an enjoyable experience .
“ Let our trained and dedicated events team take the pressure off and guide you each step of the way ,” he says . “ We offer both fully customized menus and set packages , and for those seeking a more hands-on experience , we can schedule a tasting session .”
The hotel prides itself on using local ingredients and regional dishes .
“ As a locally owned and operated
www . wvexecutive . com 11