About Ottawa
Ottawa, ON is the capital of Canada and the fourth largest city in the country. It is located in Eastern Ontario on the Ottawa River and is home to Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and a variety of museums and galleries. The city boasts a diverse culture, fascinating history, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy year-round. In the summertime, temperatures reach 30 degrees Celsius, while winter can get quite cold, with temperatures occasionally dropping below -25 Celsius.
Ottawa is ideal for hosting meetings, conventions, and other events. It offers plenty of modern meeting venues such as hotels, conference centers, and convention halls that can accommodate large groups while conveniently located near attractions for excellent team-building activities and experiences. Its central location also makes it easy to access by car or public transportation from many cities in Canada and the United States. Furthermore, Ottawa has a vibrant nightlife featuring bars, restaurants, and other entertainment options that offer something for everyone.
Overall, Ottawa is a great meeting destination as it provides all the necessary amenities to host successful events while allowing attendees to take advantage of its rich cultural offerings. Ottawa has something for everyone, from its historic sites to its outdoor activities to its modern facilities.
Meeting Options in Ottawa
- Event Planners
Event planners can help with anything from finding and reserving the perfect space for your meeting—indoors or outdoors—to providing catering services, organizing seating arrangements, coordinating transportation, and managing the budget. They also can offer staffing solutions, such as hiring experienced personnel to assist with the setup and cleanup.
- Catering Services
With so many options available, finding a caterer that will meet your needs is easy. From traditional buffet-style meals to custom-made menus highlighting local ingredients, catering companies have what it takes to make your meeting unique and memorable. Many caterers specialize in specific cuisines like Italian, Chinese, Indian, or Mediterranean food — making it easy to find something to suit everyone’s tastes. In addition, most caterers offer delivery and set up of their food and staff on-site if needed.
- Transportation Services
Transportation services are a great way to ensure that all attendees arrive at the venue safely and on time. In Ottawa, several companies offer shuttle services from airports or train stations and around-town transportation from hotels to venues. These professionals can provide comfortably appointed vehicles for groups of any size and specialize in luxury coach buses for those looking for a wealthy experience during their trip to Ottawa.
Meeting Vendors in Ottawa
- Capital Taxi
When it comes to transportation, Capital Taxi is the go-to choice for reliable service. They pride themselves on their 24/7 availability, ensuring their clients are always picked up on time. Plus, with only fully trained and experienced drivers, you can guarantee a safe and comfortable ride. Whether you need an airport transfer or a long-distance trip, Capital Taxi has a fleet of over 350 vehicles with the latest technology to make your experience easy and convenient.
- Edible Impressions Catering
Edible Impressions Catering has been serving the Ottawa community for over 20 years with its exceptional restaurant and catering service. Whether it's a cozy home gathering of 10 or a grand gala of 200, they always bring out their best. From weddings and milestone events to corporate functions, their team is expertly trained to handle events of any kind without compromising quality. Since its establishment in 2005, they have been devoted to providing exceptional culinary experiences with its delectable dishes and impeccable presentation.
- Behind the Day
Meet Brittnay D, the owner of Behind the Day, a wedding and corporate events planning business in Ottawa. With packages available for all types of milestone events, Brittnay has made a name for herself as a skilled and passionate event planner. Inspired by her childhood love for weddings and her experience in corporate event coordination, she puts her all into making sure that each event is perfect. From weddings to corporate events, Brittnay focuses on making the day stress-free and unforgettable for her clients.
Pros and Cons of Meetings in Ottawa
Meetings are integral to many organizations, allowing for collective decision-making, efficient communication among members, and team building. While meetings can be beneficial in many ways, they can also have their drawbacks. Below is a list of the pros and cons of meetings:
Advantages
- Improved communication: Meetings provide an opportunity for different stakeholders to communicate with each other in a structured environment, which results in improved clarity and understanding.
- Enhanced collaboration: By gathering all the relevant parties together in one space, opportunities for collaboration on projects or initiatives arise, leading to better outcomes.
- Numerous opportunities in Ottawa: With its vibrant culture and history, Ottawa provides an exciting backdrop and a range of venues for any gathering that can help create an environment that is both enjoyable and productive.
Disadvantages
- Time-consuming: Due to their often lengthy nature, meetings can be difficult to manage and take up a lot of valuable time that could be used elsewhere.
- Limited accessibility: In some cases, it's difficult or even impossible for certain stakeholders who cannot travel or attend physically due to logistical restrictions or financial constraints.
- Expensive travel costs: With Ottawa located far from many major cities across the country, travelling expenses can quickly add up for those planning to attend in-person meetings.
Tips on How to Organize Meetings in Ottawa
Before getting into the tips on organizing meetings in Ottawa, ON, it's important to note that this vibrant Canadian city has many unique features. From the historical architecture and cultural sites to the variety of shops and restaurants, there are plenty of activities for meeting attendees to enjoy and explore. With these considerations in mind, here are top tips for organizing meetings in Ottawa:
- Transportation: It’s vital to have transportation options available for delegates from other cities or even within Ottawa. Make sure public transit routes are accessible from the chosen accommodations, and consider booking shuttles or taxis if needed.
- Venue Selection: Choose a venue that fits the needs of your event while also providing the best experience possible. Locations should be easily accessible by public transit or car and feature excellent amenities like audio/visual equipment, catering services, adequate space for networking and breakout sessions, etc.
- Catering Options: Many venues offer catering services, so it is essential to research all available options before settling on one. Consider dietary restrictions of attendees as well as cost when selecting a caterer — ensure they can meet all your requirements without breaking your budget.
- Networking Opportunities: Use local resources such as social media platforms or online groups to promote your gathering and encourage networking amongst delegates before, during, and after the meeting has taken place. This helps foster relationships that can lead to further business opportunities.
Famous Locations in Ottawa
- Mooney’s Bay Park
Mooney's Bay Park is a true gem for Ottawa residents. The park has it all — a beautiful beach to soak up the sun, a massive playground where kids can let their imaginations run wild, and picnic areas perfect for a relaxing meal with loved ones. Not to mention, it's home to two of the city's most popular summertime events — the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival and the Hope Volleyball Tournament. And if you're feeling adventurous, take a stroll to Hog's Back Falls for a breathtaking view. With ample parking available, Mooney's Bay Park is a must-visit destination.
- Canada Science and Technology Museum
The Canada Science and Technology Museum in Ottawa is a place where learning and exploration go hand in hand. From steam locomotives to hydroelectricity, visitors are transported to a world of innovation, creativity, and technology. The aim is to inspire and ignite a passion for science, and with the latest digital technology and plenty of interactive exhibits, the museum is a playground for all ages. Discover how Canada has shaped its future through curiosity, observation, and creative thinking, and leave equipped with a greater understanding of the impressive feats of human ingenuity.
- The Three Watchmen
The Three Watchmen is a bronze marvel that stands tall at 16 feet above the ground. A creation by James Hart, a Haida artist whose ancestors have long used totems as a form of protection, paying homage to their culture. It is placed at a busy intersection that oversees government buildings and the National Gallery in Byward Market. The sculpture has become symbolic of the spiritual protection that the Haida envisioned. Any visitor stopping by the area can take a moment to admire the awe-inspiring artwork that stands guard, stoic and immovable despite the hustle and bustle in the background.