The Evolving World of Meetings in 2022

With the arrival of a new year, South Walton embraces the opportunity to help planners and attendees feel settled.

While we’re able to enjoy getting back together, health protocols will remain in place to ensure the safest meeting experience possible. From the outset of COVID-19, South Walton has worked to establish and continually update guidelines based on the latest CDC recommendations. These health protocols will remain in place to ensure the safety of all visitors.

As one example, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has adjusted meeting room configurations to allow for recommended social distancing, and hand sanitizing stations have been added in high traffic areas. Catering standards have also been altered to encourage service from banquet staff in protective masks and gloves, along with incorporation of single-use items when appropriate.

While we’ve finally seen a return to these “together gatherings,” the hybrid model of meetings is most likely here to stay, in one form or another. Planners are having to find manageable settings where their guests can get together comfortably, while also factoring in arrangements for those who may be attending virtually.

South Walton is home to many reputable technology companies that are available to support even the most complex meeting scenarios with the latest innovations. Many local hotels and resorts have on-site technical staff, or even dedicated departments to facilitate seamless presentations.

Flexibility will continue to be a necessity when it comes to the coordination of meetings. We’ve seen a sharp rise in overall demand based on the need to reschedule and make up for meetings that were cancelled or postponed over the past couple of years. Fortunately, South Walton has 150,000 square feet of meeting space and an incredible array of accommodations to suit gatherings of all sizes. Having such a wide variety of venues allows us to accommodate the varying needs of just about any group.

As groups continue to ease back into these in-person gatherings, it helps to have a destination that’s conveniently accessible. Within just a few hours’ drive from anywhere the Southeast, South Walton is ideal for regional meetings. And when guests arrive, they discover a relaxed environment that city destinations just can’t offer. In fact, nearly 40% of the land here is preserved for nature, so there is plenty of wide-open space to get out and explore.

We understand that there are seemingly constant changes and adjustments to be made when planning meetings these days. Please feel free to reach out to our Walton County Tourism Department Sales Team today for assistance with securing dates for 2022 meetings. Email us at meetings@visitsouthwalton.com or give us a call at (800) 822-6877.