About North Vancouver
North Vancouver is an extraordinary city located at the gateway of the Canadian wilderness. Just across the Burrard Inlet from Vancouver, it provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of its larger neighbor while still being close enough to enjoy all its amenities. From the majestic Capilano Suspension Bridge to Lonsdale Quay Market and the many hiking trails that crisscross the area, North Vancouver is the perfect place to explore nature and appreciate the serene beauty of British Columbia.
With its proximity to downtown Vancouver and easy access to a wide range of transportation options, North Vancouver is also an ideal meeting location. From historic sites and parks to modern conference centers or hotels, all set against a backdrop of incredible mountain scenery, North Vancouver provides meeting planners with numerous choices to suit any need.
Whether yours is a small get-together for colleagues or planning a large-scale corporate event, you can find the perfect space in North Vancouver that combines modern amenities with classic architecture and spectacular vistas, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Meeting Options in North Vancouver
- Catering
Caterers in North Vancouver offer delicious dishes, both savory and sweet. They provide anything from coffee and snack trays to full meal platters for larger groups. Catering takes the stress off the host and adds a certain level of sophistication to any meeting that might otherwise be missing.
- Audio and Visual Equipment
Renting audio-visual equipment, such as projectors, microphones, and speakers, enhances the quality of speeches and presentations. It could also include renting video conferencing equipment to reach remote participants.
- Professional Moderator Services
Hiring a professional moderator is ideal for those who want someone experienced to facilitate their meeting to ensure its success by helping keep conversations flowing smoothly and organized. Moderators help prevent arguments during heated discussions, guiding conversations in a rational direction that keeps everyone focused on the topic rather than getting sidetracked into unnecessary debates or conflicts.
- Photographers
Professional photographers capture special moments at a meeting or event that might go unnoticed. They are great for capturing group shots or taking photos of presentations by speakers or participants. These images document the event while also creating marketing material.
Meeting Vendors in North Vancouver
- Patricia Evans & Associates
Patricia Evans & Associates is a leading management consulting firm based in Vancouver, offering services to clients throughout British Columbia and Canada. With over a decade of experience, the team has an integrated approach to strategic planning, with expertise in stakeholder relations, project administration, meeting facilitation, evaluation, and research. Principal Consultant Patricia Evans and Senior Consultant Lisa May guide the team in synergy between stakeholders, communities, and organizations to produce meaningful outcomes.
- Encore Canada
Encore Canada is a team specializing in in-person, virtual, and hybrid events that deliver results. Its wide range of services includes event strategy and design, event branding, content development, staging services, scenic and decor, show management, virtual and hybrid technical solutions, and more. Partnering with event planners, venues, and staging customers, Encore Canada executes thousands of events annually, ensuring each event is even better than the last.
- Louis Gervais Fine Foods & Catering
Louis Gervais Fine Foods & Catering is a chef-owned corporate catering company based in Vancouver, renowned for its creative and expertly crafted menus. Established in 1998, they deliver custom menu designs, creative presentations, and flavorful dishes that blend European classic cooking with global flavors. With the expertise of their Five-Diamond rated Executive Chef, Louis Gervais Fine Foods & Catering provides catering services for all types of events, from corporate BBQs and picnics to formal galas and holiday parties.
Pros and Cons of Meeting Spaces in North Vancouver
North Vancouver is a city that attracts both tourists and locals due to its distinct history, breathtaking mountain vistas, and bustling shopping district. Additionally, its proximity to Vancouver makes it a viable alternative for those who want to rent space for hosting a meeting. While there are many options in the area, there are benefits and drawbacks to renting out meeting space in North Vancouver.
Advantages
- North Vancouver boasts stunning mountains, forests, and ocean views, creating a beautiful backdrop for any meeting. It is also conveniently located near North and West Vancouver attractions such as Stanley Park & Grouse Mountain.
- North Vancouver is rich in history and culture, with many impressive historic sites that provide a unique atmosphere for any meeting.
- Meeting spaces in North Vancouver are typically more affordable than those in downtown Vancouver.
Disadvantages
- North Vancouver is located near the Burrard Inlet Bridge, which can experience traffic congestion during peak times and holidays.
- Parking in North Vancouver during peak times is limited, and finding a spot is challenging.
- The weather in North Vancouver can be unpredictable, making outdoor events vulnerable to rain and cold temperatures.
Tips on How to Organize Meeting Spaces in North Vancouver
Furniture, layout, and lighting are all factors that can make or break it. The following tips will help you optimize the space for your upcoming meeting to encourage participation and engagement among all attendees.
- Arrange chairs in a semi-circle formation so everyone can see one another and facilitate more productive conversations between participants. Include a few small tables around the perimeter and food stations.
- Ensure the room has good natural lighting and ventilation to keep everyone comfortable while participating in the discussion. Use blackout drapes or blinds if too much light enters through windows on sunny days.
- Position whiteboards and other visual aids around the room, making them visible from most locations to ensure everyone can take advantage of them during discussions.
- Consider providing light snacks or beverages during breaks to energize guests throughout the meeting and provide an opportunity to mingle with each other. Offering refreshments makes guests feel more welcomed, encourages them to stay longer, and often leads to more positive outcomes from discussions due to higher morale among attendees.
- Ensure there are outlets near every seat so people can plug in their devices during the meeting without leaving their chairs or table area for long periods. If available, provide Wi-Fi access codes so attendees can connect online easily.
Famous Locations in North Vancouver
- Lonsdale Quay Market
Nestled in the heart of North Vancouver, the Lonsdale Quay Market is a hub of activity and excitement for locals and visitors alike. With 80 locally owned vendors, the market offers extensive options ranging from fresh produce to designer-made clothes and BC wines. And if you are in a rush, you can enjoy a delicious grab-and-go meal, complete with fresh pastry and a steaming cup of coffee. The Lonsdale Quay Market is a destination for those looking to shop locally and experience all of the products Vancouver has to offer.
- Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve
For those seeking an escape into nature, the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve in North Vancouver offers the perfect opportunity for a refreshing hike. The Seymour Valley Trailway provides a 10 km paved path through the forest, accompanied by various picnic sites equipped with outhouses for convenience. The lush trails of the Reserve offer a serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, making it easy to disconnect from the bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. A visit to the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve will revitalize and refresh you.
- Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver is a stunning attraction often compared to the nearby Capilano Suspension Bridge. Unlike its pricier counterpart, this bridge and park are free to visit. Spanning 160 feet (50 m) in length, it's a narrow pedestrian bridge that sways slightly in the middle, which only adds to the experience. The canyon views from the bridge are breathtaking, making it a favorite among hikers and nature enthusiasts. With its surrounding forest, hiking trails, and swimming holes, this park is worth a visit for anyone looking to escape the city.