Austin, Texas, is the capital of the 'Lone Star State' of Texas. It is home to the Texas Longhorns and the best live music scene in the country. A liberal pocket in the state of Texas, Austin is known for its vibrant culture and diversity, in addition to its many museums and attractions. It's also a huge center for business and commerce in the state. Big names like Dell and Whole Foods are based in the city, along with even larger companies like Apple and Tesla. The city is a perfect place to hold a business meeting or conference due to its central location and population density.
Some businesses look to Austin to plan their conferences simply because of the city’s capital status. However, there are many good reasons to consider Austin when planning an important meeting, especially with its excellent meeting rooms and conference event spaces, ranging from cozy with ample natural light to strict and professional with all the necessary facilities.
Your business isn’t the only company that should be involved in the meeting planning process. For a meeting to be productive and engaging, a lot of moving parts have to come together. Partner with companies and event planners that will bring their best to the table and ensure your meeting’s success. There are many different essentials to consider.
Caterers
Food brings people together like nothing else. Guests will undoubtedly look forward to the meal provided by meeting hosts. Ensure that no guest is left unfed by partnering with a quality catering company in the area to lay out a delicious spread, whether you're hosting in a meeting room or an event space.
Decorators
A great decorator will ensure that the environment of your meeting is appropriate. Nobody wants a dull conference room or meeting space; this only certifies that guests will also be bored! Many decorators in the area can help with creating the perfect atmosphere for free-flowing ideas.
Technology
Every modern meeting needs great technology. Whether screens and projectors are built-in to the meeting space or need to be rented, it’s vital that all bases are covered. A technological problem will throw a meeting off the rails faster than anything.
Equipment rental
Supplies are the most essential aspects of conference rooms. Without seating, projection capabilities, stages, and microphones, the conference couldn’t go on. Partner with an equipment rental company in the area to ensure that no detail is left unchecked.
Partnering with the right companies can be instrumental in planning the perfect meeting. Fortunately, Austin is home to many businesses that can help with your every need.
Austin Catering
Austin Catering has earned its stellar reputation by providing high-quality catering services to the Austin area. As a full-service boutique catering company, they offer custom menu design and event planning services along with tasty, mouth-waveringly good food.
TSV Sound and Vision
Known for their top of the line lighting, sound, backline, video, LED and staging equipment, TSV Sound and Vision can provide the best technology and equipment service for your important meeting. They also provides onsite services and event planning assistance.
Pearl Events Austin
This Austin-based event planner provides customizable event planning services that will match whatever style you want for your Austin meeting, be it raw, refined, classic, or embellished. They can provide design and management services for your meeting, no matter the size of the event, including networking events and creative workshops.
Austin is certainly a great city to hold a conference in, with its track record of meeting success and plentiful options of Austin venues. Its abundant activities and colorful culture make it very appealing as well. However, there are at least a few drawbacks to holding a meeting in any large city.
Diverse Venue Options
The city offers a wide range of venues suitable for business meetings, including modern conference centers, historic buildings, trendy hotels, and unique spaces like the Austin Convention Center and the Long Center for the Performing Arts.
Accessibility
With Austin-Bergstrom International Airport just a short drive from downtown, the city is easily accessible for domestic and international travelers. Additionally, Austin's robust public transportation system and rideshare options make getting around the city convenient.
Outdoor Activities
For those interested in outdoor activities, Austin offers beautiful parks, hiking trails, and lakes. Hosting a meeting in a city that promotes work-life balance can boost attendee morale and productivity.
Traffic Congestion
Austin is notorious for its traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours. This can lead to delays for attendees traveling to and from the meeting venue, potentially disrupting schedules.
High Demand for Venues
Due to its popularity as an event destination, securing a preferred venue in Austin can be challenging, especially during peak seasons. Early planning and booking are essential to ensure availability.
Noise Levels
Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin's vibrant nightlife can sometimes contribute to higher noise levels, especially in downtown areas. This might be distracting or inconvenient for meetings requiring a quiet, focused environment.
Check out these fantastic Austin destinations to take post-meeting photos to draw inspiration for your Austin meeting event.
State Capitol and Visitors Center
A National Historic Landmark, Texas’ capitol building is the sixth tallest in the United States. You can visit for free any time the building is open to see where Texas’ legislation takes place.
Zilker Park
Home of the famous Austin City Limits music festival, Zilker Park and its many attractions are a fan favorite among Austin residents. There's something special about this spot that draws in both locals and visitors alike.
Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum
This historic presidential library contains a replica of the White House’s Oval Office as well as relics from LBJ’s presidency. Dedicated in 1971, the library contains over 45 million pages of historical documents.
Lady Bird Lake
Another beautiful outdoor spot in Austin is Lady Bird Lake. If you don’t feel like heading onto the water, enjoy strolling around the paths or cycling along one of the bike trails. Many hotels that your guests may stay at are located in the area, so it’s the perfect spot to visit before or after an Austin meeting.
