The first quarter of 2025 came in fast and brought a whirlwind of excitement to our company!
So far, we have launched several new travel incentive programs, welcomed a new face to the team, and planned our very first Behind the Design Webinar! We have hit the ground running with ambitious goals that are already taking shape and coming to life. With each new milestone, we are reminded of why we do what we do, and just how powerful a passionate, dedicated team can be.
Of course, we plan numerous events for other companies, but one thing we also make a priority is planning an annual company retreat for ourselves. It’s our chance to pause, reflect, and invest in the people who make everything happen behind the scenes. This year, our team went lakeside to a peaceful, scenic setting that gave us the perfect backdrop to recharge, realign, and reconnect. “Connect” just so happens to be our company’s word for the year and was chosen intentionally. At Sutton Planning, we understand how important authentic connection is—not just within our own team, but with our partners, our clients, their guests, and every person we engage with along the way. Whether we’re collaborating in the office or executing seamless experiences on-site, we want every interaction to feel personal, meaningful, and memorable. Our lakeside retreat set the tone for us to carry that connection with us wherever we go and with whomever we meet.
Introducing kindhearted, sushi-loving, travel enthusiast Ann Ward! Ann comes to us filling the role of Executive Assistant to the President. What excites her most about joining the team is the chance to work alongside and be mentored by strong, capable women. With a diverse professional background, Ann brings a unique and well-rounded skill set to her new role. Her experience as a flight attendant and working on a cruise ship provided her with an in-depth understanding of the travel industry, while her time as a virtual assistant honed her skills in planning, organization, and management. This combination of experiences has prepared Ann perfectly for her role, allowing her to provide exceptional support in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Welcome to the team, Ann!
We are in the throws of planning and executing back-to-back incentive travel experiences for our clients with no signs of slowing down any time soon! Here’s what’s next on the docket:
- MEXICO: We’re excited to offer three exceptional incentives in stunning Mexican destinations to three exceptional clients this year! Our guests will enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life of Isla Mujeres, the luxurious charm and exclusive resorts of Punta Mita, and the unique landscapes and nightlife of Los Cabos. Each location promises tropical luxury and unforgettable memories.
- HAWAII: Our clients have opted for an exciting cruise around the Hawaiian Islands! Throughout the cruise, they will savor the unique flavors of Hawaiian cuisine, from fresh poke and loco moco to shaved ice, and experience traditional Hawaiian music and hula performances. Each island promises unforgettable memories filled with adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery!
- BELIZE: Belize is the perfect destination for groups seeking adventure, cultural enrichment, and team connection. It offers unforgettable experiences that strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. With its vibrant atmosphere and unique activities, Belize is an outstanding choice for retreats and team-building events.
- SANTA FE: Santa Fe is a beautiful and historic desert town that offers a rich blend of art, culture, and culinary delights. This client places a high value on providing his guests with a culturally rich experience that they won’t get just anywhere. Our guests are sure to leave Santa Fe with unique and memorable adventures unlike any other.
- PORTUGAL: This client opted for a delightful and tranquil river cruise along the Douro River, renowned for its stunning landscapes. Throughout the journey, guests are treated to exceptional food and wine that highlight the region’s culinary heritage. With breathtaking views of vineyards, charming villages, and majestic hills, each moment on the cruise offers a picturesque perspective of Portugal’s natural beauty.
- AND MORE: These destinations are just the beginning of an incredible year ahead!
On Tuesday, May 20th at noon CST, Sutton Planning is hosting its inaugural “Behind the Design“ webinar series, featuring an engaging discussion on unique lodges, which are becoming a top choice for corporate incentives, meetings, and retreats. This 30-minute session, in collaboration with our partners at International Group Sales, will highlight three exceptional lodges that offer unique, impactful experiences that are sure to enhance engagement and deliver results. We’re excited to share these outstanding lodges with you, as we believe incredible destinations elevate your incentive programs to the next level. SAVE YOUR SPOT to learn more about why lodges are gaining popularity for corporate incentives, meetings, and retreats!
Are you ready to send your top clients, sales reps, or business partners on a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Connect with us today to get started!