Light, festive, and perfectly suited for the season, the Sparkling Snowfall Sipper is a bright winter drink that feels celebratory without being heavy. With crisp white cranberry, fresh citrus, and a touch of sparkle, it works beautifully as both a mocktail and a cocktail — making it an easy crowd-pleaser for any holiday gathering.

Mocktail Version

A refreshing, zero-proof option with a wintery glow.

Ingredients

• 3 oz white or red cranberry juice
• 2 oz sparkling water (plain or berry)
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• Frozen cranberries or pomegranate seeds
• Fresh rosemary sprig (lightly clapped to release aroma)
• Optional: a pinch of edible glitter for a snow-globe effect

Instructions
Fill a glass with ice. Add white cranberry juice and lime juice, then top with sparkling water. Stir gently, garnish with frozen cranberries or pomegranate seeds, and finish with a sprig of rosemary.

Cocktail Version

An elegant upgrade with a festive twist.

To make it a cocktail, add 1½ oz vodka or gin, or replace the sparkling water with prosecco.
For a floral note, add a splash of St-Germain.

Crisp, aromatic, and easy to customize, the Sparkling Snowfall Sipper brings just the right amount of holiday magic to the glass. Perfect for toasting the season — with or without spirits.

Long before weather apps and digital calendars, people turned to almanacs for guidance — not just to track the seasons, but to move through the year with intention. These slim books offered reminders about timing, balance, and rest, encouraging a life paced by observation rather than urgency. As the holidays arrive in today’s always-on world, some of that old wisdom feels especially relevant.

“As the days grow shorter, make your light grow longer.”

Once a call to gather around hearths and candlelight, this idea now invites us to be deliberate about what brings warmth into our days. A quiet walk, a meaningful conversation, or a few moments of stillness can provide a steady glow amid a busy season.

“Gather what you love before the winter sets in.”

Historically, this meant harvest and preparation. Today, it’s about holding close what sustains us — people, routines, and moments that bring comfort and clarity. Not everything needs to be finished before year’s end, but what matters most deserves space.

“Nothing grows without rest.”

Farmers understood that fallow periods were essential for future growth. In modern life, rest serves the same purpose. Slowing down creates room for reflection, renewal, and the creative energy that carries us forward into a new year.

“Many hands make light work.”

This season offers a reminder that sharing responsibility isn’t a weakness — it’s wisdom. Whether at work or at home, allowing others to contribute makes space for connection and lightness.

As the year draws to a close, these time-tested sayings remind us that wisdom doesn’t age — it adapts. A well-tended season, in any era, still leaves room for joy, meaningful connection, and the quiet reset that prepares us for what’s next.

The holidays can be equal parts sparkle and stress — joyful gatherings on one hand, and year-end deadlines, travel logistics, and to-do lists that seem to grow overnight on the other. If joy has slipped a little lower on your priority list, here’s some reassuring news: it doesn’t take much to bring it back.

In a global digital well-being project involving more than 17,000 participants across 169 countries, researchers found that spending just 5–10 minutes a day for one week on small “micro-acts of joy” — such as gratitude, kindness, or moments of awe — led to measurable improvements in emotional well-being, reduced stress, and even better sleep. A few intentional minutes each day can meaningfully shift how a week — and a season — feels.

Here are a few simple ways to invite more joy into the holiday weeks ahead:

Find Awe in the Outdoors

Nature has a remarkable ability to pull us out of our heads and into the present moment. Participants in the study described experiencing transcendental joy when surrounded by landscapes larger than life — oceans, mountains, lakes, and waterfalls. Many even expressed a sense of awe when viewing the sunset at the end of a dark day – a reminder that a single breathtaking moment can change our perspective.

Practice Kindness — It Comes Right Back to You

Reflect on your core values and how generosity fits into your daily life. Being kind to yourself and to others isn’t just meaningful — it’s one of the fastest ways to lift your mood. Celebrating someone else’s joy or offering a simple act of goodwill delivers an immediate emotional boost.

Revisit Gratitude

Make a short list of eight things you’re grateful for — big milestones, small comforts, or people who made a difference this year. Then, let someone know why you appreciate them. Gratitude strengthens connection, and connection is one of the most powerful sources of joy during the holidays.

Try on a Brighter Lens

It’s easy to assume that difficult experiences automatically lead to negative outcomes. But optimism is a skill rooted in perspective. Take a moment to recall a past challenge and identify the positive result that ultimately came from it. That small mental shift can influence how you navigate whatever comes next.

The takeaway is simple: joy doesn’t require a grand gesture

It’s a small, steady practice. In a season that often asks a lot from us, giving yourself a few intentional minutes each day to pause, breathe, and look for light can make all the difference.

Gratitude feels easy when life is calm — when the inbox is under control, projects are on track, and there’s room to breathe. But for most professionals today, those moments are rare. We’re navigating long days, short timelines, and the constant hum of “too much.” In that kind of environment, gratitude can feel like one more thing on the to-do list — a performance of positivity that doesn’t quite fit the mood.

But that’s exactly why it matters

Gratitude, when practiced honestly, isn’t about denying exhaustion or pretending that overwork feels good. It’s about noticing what’s still working within the chaos — the coworker who offered help without being asked, the project that finally moved forward, the client who showed grace when plans changed. It’s not glossy or grand. It’s grounded.

There’s a misconception that gratitude means looking for silver linings or minimizing stress. In truth, it’s more about awareness — recognizing the small moments of stability that hold us up when everything else feels unstable. Gratitude says, “This part is still solid.” It helps us find center when balance is impossible.

That shift matters in today’s work world. When we’re always on, gratitude becomes a pause button — a moment to breathe, reflect, and reorient. It’s not a productivity tool; it’s a perspective reset.

You don’t need a journal or a list of “three things I’m thankful for.” What makes gratitude sustainable is keeping it simple and specific:

– Micro-recognitions: End your day by noting one thing that went right — however small.
– People first: Send a quick thank-you or message of appreciation without an agenda.
– Reflect backward: Instead of focusing on what’s unfinished, recall what moved forward this week.
– Self-gratitude: Acknowledge your own effort. Gratitude for yourself counts, too.

True gratitude doesn’t cancel out the hard stuff; it lives alongside it.

You can be grateful for your team and still wish you had fewer meetings. You can appreciate your job and still want more balance. Gratitude loses its power when it demands perfection — it regains it when it makes room for honesty.

So this November, skip the pressure to feel thankful for everything.

Be thankful within everything. Notice what sustains you — the people, the progress, the purpose behind the long days. That’s where real gratitude lives: not in the polished moments, but in the messy middle.

Gratitude without the gloss is the kind that lasts.

It’s quiet, grounded, and human. And in a world that constantly asks us to do more, maybe the bravest thing we can do is pause long enough to say, “I see what’s still good — and I’ll hold on to that.”

Dunwoody | Above Atlanta…Beyond Expectations

Combining the amenities of a major city with the welcoming atmosphere characteristic of Southern destinations, Dunwoody, GA offers a distinctive value proposition for meeting professionals. A recent discussion highlighted why Dunwoody stands out as an exceptional choice for meetings.

What is Dunwoody’s unique value proposition for meeting professionals, and how do you communicate that effectively in a competitive market?
Dunwoody offers the convenience of a premier meetings destination with the intimacy of a community-focused setting. Our location is minutes from Atlanta, with walkable access to more than 2,000 hotel rooms, premier dining, and shopping, creates an unmatched ease of experience for planners and attendees. Fly into Atlanta Hartsfield Airport where you can hop on  a 40-minute MARTA ride to Dunwoody. No traffic to deal with. We emphasize our accessibility, affordability, and personalized service as distinguishing factors in comparison to larger, congested cities.

How are you leveraging partnerships with hotels, local businesses, and regional organizations to create a cohesive and attractive meeting destination?

We collaborate with hotels, restaurants, and attractions to create tailored group packages. By working with regional partners and Atlanta’s metro market, we promote Dunwoody as both an independent destination and an Atlanta extension. This approach gives meeting planners full support and distinctive local experiences for their events.

What challenges or misconceptions do you face when selling Dunwoody as a meetings hub, and how are you addressing them to shift perceptions?

A common misconception is that Dunwoody is simply a suburban extension of Atlanta rather than a destination. To shift this perception, we highlight our walkable meeting district, modern hotel properties, vibrant dining scene, and cultural attractions that provide attendees with an engaging experience without the stress of navigating a major metropolitan core. We also share client testimonials and success stories to illustrate Dunwoody’s capabilities in hosting events.

What incentives or support does Dunwoody offer to event organizers that might give it a competitive edge over other cities with similar offerings?

We provide custom incentive programs, including financial support based on room nights, marketing aid, and planning resources to ease the organizer’s workload. Our high-touch, personalized services ensure that every planner has a direct point of contact within our team. For example, attendees receive a warm welcome letter from our Mayor. Swag bags and selfie stations are provided for groups, not just large conventions. This level of accessibility and promotional support sets Dunwoody apart from larger, more transactional destinations.

How do you measure success in attracting meetings and conventions, and what key performance indicators (KPIs) are most critical to your growth strategy?

Our success is measured by several key metrics, including room nights generated, repeat bookings, new planner engagement, attendee satisfaction, and economic impact. Balancing quantitative KPIs with qualitative feedback from our partners and planners helps align our approach for both immediate results and long-term growth as a premier meetings destination. 

Reported by Maureen Pickell, CTC | Director of Global Accounts & Media Relations | ConventionPlanit.com

               IMEX America 2025 – “The super bowl of the events Industry”

Coined by Steve Hill, Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Association CEO and President, the above tagline accurately summarizes the biggest ever edition of IMEX America, held October 7–9 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

The exhibition welcomed 17,683 participants with 6,145 global buyers of which 4,700 were hosted. 3,700 exhibiting companies representing 80+ countries took part in over 92,000 scheduled meetings with planners – over 77,000 of which were pre-scheduled one-to-ones along with group appointments and presentations.

The ConventionPlanit.com team (Katherine & David Markham and Maureen Pickell) networked with both planners and suppliers to talk details and establish valuable connections. In this volatile time for our industry, it was uplifting to be part of an endeavor that proves our global business events community continues facing firmly forward!

As usual, the hall presented sessions and exhibits that were thought-provoking, immersive and multi-sensory. For example, CP.com supplier partner Visit Anchorage presented a striking digital display featuring Alaska’s iconic scenery that had the power to make every attendee stop and stare! Walking the aisles meant dodging performers in sparkling outfits, feathered headgear and more sedately attired wandering robots.

And, when the educational sessions, the networking and the “doing business by the mile” across the biggest exhibition floor to date became overwhelming, there was a Resilience Room just outside the hall to “foster the physical, emotional and mental well-being of attendees” by emphasizing soul over mind.

To best summarize this important event, I usually end with a quote by the CEO and “down-to-earth” team leader of the IMEX organization, Carina Bauer:

“This has been a record-breaking week where we’ve seen first-hand how transformative it is for our industry to meet face to face, to shake hands, do business and build bonds. The strength in numbers across the board is a sign of a sector that’s both purposeful and powerful right now.”

Carina Bauer, CEO IMEX

IMEX America continues to offer an incomparable opportunity to make connections in the meetings, events and incentive industry. Save the date – October 13–15, 2026 and see you next year at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center!

In the spirit of October, let’s talk about a workplace trend that’s a little too spooky: ghosting. It happens when someone simply stops responding — to an inquiry, proposal, or follow-up — and it leaves the other side in the dark. While it’s rarely intentional, silence can create frustration and erode trust in professional relationships. The good news? A few mindful communication habits can keep your connections strong — and your reputation glowing.

Start with Clarity

Let others know when they can expect a reply — and feel comfortable asking the same. A quick “I’ll get back to you by Friday” helps manage workloads and avoids unnecessary follow-ups. If a full answer will take longer, say so; clarity builds trust.

Respond, Even Briefly

A short acknowledgment — “Got your message, working on it and will circle back soon” — shows accountability without demanding much time. Even small responses demonstrate reliability and help others plan accordingly.

Be Honest, Even When It’s a “No”

Most ghosting happens because people want to avoid an uncomfortable conversation. But saying “thank you, we’ve decided to move in another direction” is kinder than silence. It offers closure, preserves goodwill, and leaves the door open for future opportunities. After all, business needs evolve — and today’s “no” could be tomorrow’s “yes.“

Offer Understanding — to Others and Yourself

Before deciding that someone has ghosted you, pause. We can never fully know what’s happening on another person’s plate — unexpected travel, staff shortages, or personal challenges can easily delay a reply. Keeping that in mind helps us approach others with a little more patience — and sometimes creates the space needed for reconnection.

Master Tip:
Accountability and empathy are powerful partners. Together, they strengthen relationships, reduce stress, and keep communication alive — even when answers are delayed. By showing up with honesty and understanding, we make our professional circles a little less haunted and a lot more human.

Situated on South Las Vegas Blvd., the M Resort in Henderson, Nevada, unexpectedly gives the impression of a desert oasis with a unique proximity to the Las Vegas Strip. There are so many reasons to love this resort. Its quiet elegance is similar to the high-end resorts of Southern California and Arizona, and that’s just the beginning.

Three years ago, Ashley Lowe joined the M Resort sales team, knowing the property was on the verge of a major expansion. With prior experience at MGM Grand, Venetian, and Caesars Entertainment, she was energized by the opportunity to lead the sales organization at a resort set to double its capacity. Here’s what we learned:

What inspired you to join the M Resort?

What excited me the most was the opportunity to work closely with a General Manager who truly supports the group market. Coming from larger properties, I value the chance to be more hands-on and collaborate across departments. It’s a unique opportunity to deepen my knowledge of hotel operations and be part of an exciting transformation as the property prepares to double its capacity.

How is the expansion going?

We’re pleased to share that the expansion is ahead of schedule—our new hotel tower is set to open on December 1, 2025. This growth will take us from 390 to 765 rooms and include the debut of a 15,000 sq. ft. ballroom, bringing our total flexible meeting and event spaces to nearly 100,000 sq. ft. We’re also elevating our culinary portfolio through a partnership with the Emeril Group, with Meril, a celebrated New Orleans concept, slated to open early next year.

What kind of group meetings can you now accommodate?

With our expansion, we’ve significantly increased our group capacity. The new tower enables us to accommodate up to 650 rooms on peak night, allowing us to welcome larger programs than ever before. This expanded inventory also provides greater flexibility with room rates—particularly midweek, where rates can start as low as $129.

What truly sets the M Resort apart is the serenity and exclusivity we offer. Groups that once outgrew us are now returning, and new organizations are discovering a compelling alternative in Las Vegas—benefiting from strong airlift, without the congestion of the Las Vegas Strip.

What amenities do you offer?

We offer a full-service resort experience just 15 minutes from both the Las Vegas Strip and Harry Reid International Airport, combining proximity with a sense of exclusivity. Guests enjoy complimentary airport transfers, free self and valet parking, and a setting designed for ease and comfort.

On property, we feature a state-of-the-art casino with the latest games, the Forbes Four-Star Spa Mio, a resort-style pool with outdoor event venues, and seven distinctive dining options. With our expansion, we’re further enhancing these amenities to deliver a seamless, elevated experience for both leisure and group guests.

Learn more about the M Resort and view its ConventionPlanit.com listing.
👉 View Listing

For most people, the holidays mean gatherings and gratitude.
For meeting and event professionals, they can also mean go-time—holiday galas, client celebrations, and year-end events all stacked into the calendar.

That’s exactly why October is the perfect time to plan time for yourself. Before the busy season takes over, look ahead and build in small, intentional breaks that will keep you energized through the rush and ready to start the new year refreshed.

Your Guide to Staying Grounded Through the Holiday

Here are three ways you can create space for yourself in your busy holiday calendar

Small Breaks (30 Minutes to 2 Hours)

Treat these as mini recharges, not luxuries. Block time between site visits or calls to take a walk, stretch, or grab coffee without your phone.
A short reset can make the rest of the day more productive—and much calmer.

A Day Away

Really look at your calendar—between November 1 and December 31, is there a single day that could be protected just for you?
Plan now to move work around that day to make it happen. No meetings. No messages. Just a full day to reset and refocus. Protect it early and commit to it as you would any important event.

Weekend Wellness (or Any Two Days Away)

You don’t need a far-off retreat to restore balance. Even two days can feel like a getaway if you plan ahead.
Look at your upcoming schedule—maybe it’s a quiet Sunday/Monday after a full event week or a staycation at a local spa. Book it, block it, and commit to it.

When Plans Change—Because They Might

Let’s be honest—planners are great at scheduling, but life (and clients) can shift priorities. If your personal time gets sidelined, resist the urge to drop it altogether. Instead, treat rescheduling it like you would any other important deliverable.
You’re already an expert problem solver—apply that same skill to finding your next window for rest.
Balance isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence.

Master Tip: Model Balance for Others
When you prioritize rest, you give your team permission to do the same. Encourage colleagues to plan their own downtime, share this article, or check in with one another as the season ramps up.
Your example might be the reminder someone else needs to take their own pause.

Because the best planners don’t just manage time—they protect it.
Start planning your pause now, so you can greet the new year with energy, creativity, and calm.

In business, events, and everyday life, the quality of your decisions often comes down to the quality of your questions. Too often, we rush toward answers without first ensuring we’re asking the right questions.

Why Questions Matter

Asking the right questions allows you to see issues from new perspectives, uncover hidden challenges, and explore opportunities you might otherwise miss. Good questions aren’t just about gathering information — they spark dialogue, inspire creative thinking, and open new possibilities.

The Power of Open-Ended Questions

Instead of yes/no queries, open-ended questions encourage detailed responses that reveal valuable context. A simple shift — asking “Why is this important?” or “How can this be approached differently?” — often leads to deeper insights. Phrases like:

• “Why do you think this is happening?”
• “How does this affect the outcome?”
• “Can you explain what success looks like?”

These prompts invite fuller explanations, clarify priorities, and expose opportunities for problem-solving.

Applying the Q&A Advantage

When you hit a roadblock, ask yourself: Am I asking the right questions? This simple reset can transform confusion into clarity. In conversations, negotiations, or decision points, try framing your next step not as an answer, but as a better question.

By developing the skill of asking thoughtful questions, you’ll uncover insights that drive stronger strategies and better results.

Pro Tip: Keep a running list of go-to open-ended questions. Whether it’s “What does success look like?” or “What would you do differently next time?”, these prompts can become a powerful toolkit for better decisions and smarter outcomes.