Destination Services

Here, your event’s On A Pedestal

Our Destination Services team is focused on supporting you and your event with all the little details from pre-planning to execution. Your dedicated Destination Services Manager is eager to assist you throughout the entire planning of your convention and will serve as your city liaison from beginning to end. Our goal is to provide a successful and memorable experience in Norfolk for your attendees!

Below is a sampling of the services we offer; however, we enjoy working with you to provide customized services tailored to your group’s specific needs.

Pre-planning

  • Provide a list of Norfolk vendors and suppliers to assist with your needs
  • Assistance identifying local speakers
  • Itinerary ideas for tours and other leisure activities
  • Recommend unique off-site venues for networking or other special events
  • Recommend local “voluntourism” or charitable opportunities

Marketing Your Event

  • Promotional assistance though our Communications & Marketing department
  • High-Resolution images, logos and videos
  • Media kit – press releases, social media
  • Coordination of welcome letters from city officials and other state dignitaries
  • Pre-promotion and attendance-boosting assistance

Prior to Your Event

  • Provide informative Norfolk brochures (area maps, dining guide, attractions, show your badge program, etc.) in advance or on-site
  • Request Welcome Letter from the Governor
  • Request the Mayor’s presence at your event
  • Welcome banners 

On-site Details

  • Promotional collateral such as our City Guide, maps and brochures, etc.
  • Complimentary information table. May be staffed with Visitor Information Specialist. Fee may apply. 
  • Assistance with registration and other convention tasks. Fee may apply. 
  • Name badges and lanyard availability. Fees apply. 
  • Local gifts available for purchase
  • VisitNorfolk representative can be provided to welcome your attendees. Based on availability.

Our Destination Services Team

Catherine Williamson, CMP, VDP

Director of Destination Services

cwilliamson@visitnorfolktoday.com

Catherine’s background in hospitality and tourism spans over 20 years with various roles at hotels, resorts, and DMOs that allow her to directly relate to your needs as a meeting planner. Her southern hospitality and relationships she has built throughout the community will make planning your meeting in Norfolk a breeze! She oversees events, FAMs, and works with markets that include Corporations, Government, Virginia and Southeastern Associations. She believes Norfolk’s rich history, diversity and arts and culture make it a truly unique destination. You will find her with her family on the water, biking to festivals, and enjoying local cuisine when she’s not working!

Jennifer Lopez

Senior Destination Services Manager

jlopez@visitnorfolktoday.com

Jennifer Lopez has been building relationships in the hospitality industry for over 15 years. She services Sports, Multicultural, AAA, Military, Family, Religious and Association groups between 40-1,500 people. She also plans and executes a number of events and group tours for VisitNorfolk. Her passion for Norfolk is driven by its “small-town” charm, attractions, amazing dining and diverse history.

Destination Services Directory

See our recommendations for services to make your convention a success. From catering, entertainment and photographers to audio visual, decor, event rentals, promotional materials and staffing, these are some of the top service providers we trust.

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CURATED RESOURCES

PLAN YOUR Meeting

Norfolk’s got the tools to help you keep your attendance, and success, at an all-time high.

Meeting and Event Spaces

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Off-site Venues

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Planning Tools

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Meeting FAQs

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Contact Us

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Destination Services

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Meetings and Conventions Newsletter

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Transportation

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