A Corporate Event That Blended Technology & Heritage
The Challenge
A world-leading provider of business management software solutions for retail and hospitality sought to host their annual corporate conference and expo, conneXion. They wanted a location that would provide seamless logistics and an immersive experience for their international partners and delegates. The challenge was to create an event that would not only focus on business insights and industry networking but also integrate the local culture in a meaningful way.
The Approach
Italian Special Occasions DMC was entrusted with designing, planning, and executing the entire event. This involved venue selection, logistics coordination, catering, corporate entertainment, award ceremonies, and leisure activities and design the Expo area, meetings space with outstanding technical equipment Ensuring smooth transportation and easy accessibility for global attendees was also a key priority.
After a familiarisation trip, Rome was selected as the event location. Two prestigious venues, Villa Piccolomini for the Awards Night and Villa Aurelia for the Corporate Party, were chosen for their historical significance and ability to reflect the event’s theme.
The Solution
Event Theme
Ancient Roman Technology Meets 21st-Century Technology.
Inspired by Rome’s historical significance, the event was designed around connectivity—linking the client’s cutting-edge technology to ancient Roman roads that once connected vast regions. A symbolic element, the Sampietrini (traditional Roman cobblestones), was used to represent this connection.
Engaging the Five Senses
To create a fully immersive experience, the event engaged all five senses:
- Sound: Live entertainment included a private DJ set, operatic performances, and an exclusive Dire Straits Legacy band concert.
- Sight: Thoughtfully curated venues, bespoke event décor, and lighting to match the event’s Roman-inspired theme.
- Taste: A diverse selection of regional Italian cuisine, accommodating different dietary preferences, ensuring a culinary experience reflective of Rome’s rich gastronomic tradition.
- Touch: Unique thematic giveaways and high-quality printed materials aligned with the event branding.
- Smell: Carefully chosen floral arrangements and natural scents of Roman gardens enhanced the ambience.
The Outcome
- Keynote speakers included industry experts from Microsoft, The Coca-Cola Company, and Facebook.
- Engaging corporate networking sessions and panel discussions.
- Leisure activities featuring private guided tours of Rome’s iconic sites, including the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and the ancient port of Ostia Antica.
- An immersive Awards Night at Villa Piccolomini and an elegant corporate celebration at Villa Aurelia.
Client Testimonials
“Laura and the Italian Special Occasions team are very helpful and professional in all aspects of organising a corporate event in Italy. They went the extra mile to create a special experience for our event, and I can happily recommend their services.”
“Our most heartfelt thanks to all the participants, speakers, sponsors & exhibitors that made conneXion a huge success.”
“What a spectacular tour we had yesterday. Thank you for your gracious hospitality and a truly wonderful experience this week!”
Final thoughts
The conneXion Rome event successfully combined cutting-edge business innovation with the rich cultural heritage of Rome. By designing a meticulously planned and immersive experience, Italian Special Occasions DMC ensured the client’s conference was a professional success and an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
