Top 5 reasons to work with a destination management company (DMC)

In this period of economic recovery, Québec City is reinventing itself and has lost none of its appeal to visitors. Looking to wow your attendees at your next event? Then look no further! DMCs tap into a host city’s unique culture, history, culinary scene and real vibe—something that is difficultly achieved if you don’t know the destination or if your last visit was long ago and before the pandemic. They can create unforgettable event concepts and experiences, where respect of sanitary measures will be omnipresent, without ever hindering the positive experience of your participants.

Nicky de Champlain, Director of Sales at JPdL Québec, and Stéfane Ratté, General Manager at Inscript, both Québec City DMCs, agreed that their organizations can design events based on a specific event theme, attendee personas and what makes the host city so special. For example, Québec City’s European charm and 400-plus years of history make it the perfect backdrop for event delegates to travel back in time and immerse themselves in all things historical and cultural.

“I think the number-one reason experienced and beginner event planners turn to DMCs is that we have comprehensive knowledge of the destination, including language, accommodations, venues, meeting spaces and activities,” explained Ms. de Champlain. “Our local expertise eliminates a lot of the research time that goes into planning an event, in addition to the insecurities that event planners may have since the pandemic.

Working with a DMC means you can get the opportunity to visit secret gems that may not be known to non-locals, and most importantly, to know what is currently open to the public and what health guidelines apply. Thanks to a DMC, a planner can get a much better feel for the host city and tailor the event so that attendees can enjoy a more authentic and safe experience.

“Event planning can vary from one destination to another,” said Mr. Ratté. “Each host city has its own character, for sure, but it also has its own set of regulations and standards to abide by, especially nowadays. A local DMC therefore has both the experience in event planning—and the know-how to successfully organize the event in its home town. We provide the tips and tricks to ensure a hassle-free experience and an optimized and enjoyable stay.”

The last few months have shown us the importance of supporting the local economy. DMCs have strong ties with local suppliers. These long-term relationships mean that event planners can benefit from better pricing, exclusive offers, great on-site assistance and simplified logistics.”

“We work closely with our supplier partners to create highly engaging and custom experiences that amaze event attendees, and reflect the colours of Québec City” said Mr. Ratté. “We also like to renew what we and our suppliers can offer so that event planners never feel as though they are getting a cookie-cutter approach.”

DMC’s are masters when it comes to offering event planners peace of mind,” Ms. de Champlain said. “It could be easy to get lost in all the new sanitary measures and the additional logistics it involves, but we always accompany our clients before, during and after a given event, to make sure that everyone is satisfied and safe, in addition to respecting the stipulated goals and budgets.

Ms. de Champlain pointed out that even with the best foresight, issues can arise during a convention or conference, whether it is with travel arrangements, IT headaches, or problems with a venue. DMCs support event organizers by proactively developing contingency plans and providing alternatives. “When a planner leverages the skills of a DMC, they can rest assured knowing their event will take place without a hitch.”
 

The value of DMCs for organizing a conference or convention is undeniable. They are an event planner’s go-to solution to optimize resources, streamline event operations, minimize stress and, above all, allow a host city to unveil its kaleidoscope of colours.