As a DMC, or destination management company, we get asked this question a lot. “What’s the value of a DMC? I mean, really? We have a corporate event and meeting planner in-house. Doesn’t that put you guys out of business?” If I had a quarter for every time someone asked me a question like that, I’d be able to move the Louvre to Italy.
In short, the biggest value of a DMC is the same as real estate: location, location, location. We’re what you call the “local talent.” For example, if you’re planning an out-of-town event and are unfamiliar with Italy, we’re the people you call. Why? Because we live here, which means we have extensive knowledge of the area.
Big deal, you say? Here are just three ways a destination management company can help your in-house corporate event and meeting planner get the job done easier, faster and better.
If you’re planning an out-of-town-event, your DMC:
- Knows where the local resources are. We know who provides the best catering, hotels, and transportation services. We also know who has the best service for the best cost.
- Understands the local norms and expectations. After you’ve lived someplace for a while, you come to know what’s expected. For example, we know that going to Vatican City in a strappy sundress will get you nowhere (skimpy clothing isn’t allowed). However, we also know if the barista in that fancy café next door is charging way too much for bad espresso.
- Knows where the gems are. Where is the freshest food in Rome? How has the most helpful staff in Milan? What are the best travel routes from Rome to Florence? Which place has the best live entertainment? You may not be sure, but your DMC will. It’s our job to learn every nook and cranny of our chosen destination.
- Acts as a key contact for the event planning process. One of the biggest benefits, DMCs serve to make sure things go smoothly and contracts are fulfilled. That includes streamlining the conversation, since all the event planner has to do is talk to the DMC contact.
So, what good is a DMC? Well, essentially, we’re highly specialized consultants. We specialize in Italy and in making corporate events in our beloved country be the best they can be. We’re the local consultants that keep out-of-town event planning easier. We do the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.
