Destination Wedding Round Table Event 2024 Written by: Evelyne Ekdahl, Masters of ceremonies, November 2024
Intro
It is the end of October, early morning on the shores of Lake Geneva, with wafts of mist hanging over the lake, accompanied by the screeching of individual seagulls. The city, which is home to the world-famous Jazz Festival, is bustling with activity as this year's host of the ‘Wedding Round Table’.
Bonjour at the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace
Wedding planners, venues and representatives of wedding service provider associations from various parts of Switzerland have followed the call of Switzerland Tourism to exchange ideas at a round table discussion on the topic of ‘Destination Weddings’ in Switzerland.
Tradition meets modernity
With the charm of Belle Époque architecture and the standard and amenities of a 5-star hotel, the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace combines tradition and excellent service in the finest way. As participants, we were able to enjoy exquisite culinary delights and fine wines. Watching the chefs prepare the delicacies on the spot was an additional highlight. The mood among the participants was open and warm. There was great joy in meeting new and old acquaintances and networking.
An aperitif in the garden and a tour of the hotel by Karim El-Rami himself rounded off the visit to this gem on Lake Geneva in a wonderful way.
Professionalism combined with creativity
The organisation and design of this event is characterised by attention to detail and sophistication. The harmonious elegance of the decoration and floral design is enchanting. The playful table arrangement is a testament to creativity and invites you to try something new.
From the friendly reception and the musical accompaniment during the meal to the personal touches with name cards – every detail was characterised by professionalism and warmth.
Harness synergies and create something new
"Let's talk about business, baby!" was the motto during the group discussions, panel debates and question-and-answer sessions, which the wedding service providers in attendance took part in.
How can strategic partnerships be used to enhance Switzerland's attractiveness as a luxury destination for individual weddings and tourism?
Where is there potential for collaboration in the wedding industry? How does Switzerland compare to its neighbouring countries in terms of destination weddings?
Various tasks served as discussion topics, which led to a lively and stimulating exchange. There was room for creative ideas and joint consensus, as well as for different opinions.
There were intensive discussions about the opportunities that arise where and in which context possibilities can be developed and responsibilities defined. Synergies, partnerships, networks!
Exciting solutions were already created in these few hours.
Conclusion
In Montreux, the participants were able to raise awareness and understanding of the needs of wedding service providers and potential customers. Cornerstones for profitable measures were laid.
The aim for future meetings is to build on this, to continue to implement the measures that have already been taken and to further develop new approaches.
Many thanks to Switzerland Tourism for the initiative and invitation to this ‘Wedding Round Table’.
Credits
Host Regina Lai, Switzerland Convention & Incentive Bureau (SCIB)
Venue Karim El-Rami, Fairmont Le Montreux Palace
Event design Loukia Denzler Arapian
Photos Fabien Delétraz
Videos Emma Wilson from Story Of Your Day
About the author
Evelne Ekdahl is:
Co-founder of Professional Association of Swiss Master of Ceremonies
Owner of Evelyne Ekdahl Ceremonies and
Founder of the talent pool for ceremonies