San Francisco is unique amongst cities in the U.S. Facets of the East Coast combine with the history of the 60's and the technology of today to make for one of the most fascinating cities in the nation. Her associations with Silicon Valley's major companies make San Francisco a frequent meeting place and convention locale. There's a certain charm about the place that has brought many to agree with Tony Bennett, who sang the famous "I Left My Heart In San Francisco," so many years ago.

So you've got a meeting to plan for in Shaky Town? That's good news! With just a bit of help, you'll be on your way to a great meeting, and you'll have a blast setting it up!

Though it's all loosely referred to as San Francisco, the Bay Area sprawls, with the San Francisco Bay itself as a natural barrier. Even though it has an excellent reputation for public transportation, rather than counting on everyone being able to figure out how to use the BART system, it'd probably be best to determine what part of the city suits the needs of the majority. Allow for that those who live in San Fran already will either have the BART system wired or have their own cars. If need be, a van can be rented to chauffeur the attendees around. Of course, many hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the airport as well.

One consideration will be the duration of the conference. If you're only meeting for a day or two and people are coming in from outside the Bay area, it'd probably be best to accommodate the visitors by scheduling the meetings at one of the many hotels with facilities. This is the most common approach, but may not be the most memorable.

Is it strictly business, or do you have some creative latitude? Is it important that the attendees have a good time? Are you hoping to convince potential employees, clients or execs to come aboard? That changes everything.

If your company is based in San Francisco and you're hoping to lure talent there, you'll need to convince them that they'll enjoy living in the City By The Bay. That may include some scheduled R&R activities, sightseeing, catering from local specialty restaurants, perhaps even an excursion out of the heart of the city to show your guests some of the natural wonders that are only a short distance away. If the season is cooperative, you might want to rent a vessel and conduct a casual meeting aboard or around that trip. San Francisco is full of memorable places to see and things to do. Let your imagination run wild a bit, and you'll be sure to come up with itinerary events that will impress.

Even if it's a straightforward business meeting full of stodgy facts and figures, there's no reason the event can't be memorable. Creativity is really your only limit. Even on a budget, you can make that event special by taking a little time to plan something different. First pick a venue which suits your group's needs. Then elaborate upon the schedule. Approach it as though you were romancing someone you're interested in, trying to make a good impression. What sorts of surprises would you prepare for such an occasion if that were the case? Bring those great ideas with you when you plan. An inexpensive souvenir, a guest bag, these can make all the difference if they're well thought out. Remember, it's not the existence of that guest bag that matters, but that you bothered to invest some time in making it unique and personal. When you think of your guests that much, they'll be sure to think of you and appreciate your efforts both during the conference and in the years to come.

San Francisco is a wonderful town and a great place for your next meeting, conference or convention. Take the time to make a special event of it, and your guests will be leaving a bit of their heart there, too!

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