ANSWERING SOME QUESTIONS

There were many issues with the new hotel, and we ask that everyone be patient as we work through those for next year. These were some specific questions about the event that I’d like to respond to.

DEAN - We’re a volunteer organization and our volunteer teachers submit a request to teach. We put out a call for teachers every year, and would love to have anyone who wants to teach be accepted. We can’t ask them what they are, but can state they are welcome in our call for teachers. 

• The part of the app that I couldn't figure out was the social aspect, where you could have conversations with other attendees.

DEAN - This only works if other students made their profiles public. They were the only ones that could decide that. Students could also leave their profile hidden if they wished it to be private.

• Please clarify the use of the Costume College App: 

DEAN - The previous App we had contracted with and used was cancelled, & replaced with one that wasn’t as useful for our type of event. It had to be built up from scratch very close to the time of the event by our volunteer. We’re sorry it didn’t get set up quicker or clarify how to get started on it.

• Could you add a feature that allows for people registered for Costume College to be automatically registered to the app if they want to be?

DEAN - We have discussed this, and will ask the student on the Registration form if they wish their email to be added. Not all wanted to be part of the App.

3. Rooms were so scattered around for events, like Check-In, Gala, Tea, Exhibits.

DEAN - As there was another group that had contracted the same weekend, we tried to do the best we could, and next year we will have greater availability to all the rooms.                     

4. Why isn’t Check-In closer to the most traveled area of the hotel, like the front entrance?  Why separate check in with getting swag bags?

DEAN - The hotel have areas designated for events, so as not to disrupt their business. The Pre-Function area is what they had available last time.  Next year, we will get them closer together.

5. The "Costume College drop off" signs were VERY small. We missed them from our car, and we didn't notice them until we had already lugged all our stuff from the parking lot. Bigger signs would have been AMAZING!

DEAN - We have added that to our plans for next year. Also, we weren’t aware of the construction at the entry to the parking lot, and the company had advised the hotel they would be done on Wed, which they weren’t. 

6. Multiple comments on the Thursday Welcome Party & Friday Social

DEAN - I want to make both of these more of a social event again, where we can gather like we did in the past. The room adjoining the pool was supposed to be included, and will be next year. For the Friday Social, now we don’t need to be spaced out as much as when we were coming out of Covid, will have us all back together.

7. Suggested Bargain Basement early ticket purchase options

DEAN - We’re looking into the different ideas that were offered.

8. Breakfast options – I thought the Sunday Breakfast was discounted– food options were limited.

DEAN - The discount was added for the entire weekend. We’re going to bargain for better food options next year.

9. The Lounge – food choices not good, too crowded/noisy with photo studio there.

DEAN - The committee tried to make it as allergy protective as possible, especially outside food being donated. The Photo Studio will be in a separate room next year.

10. Marketplace – not enough vendors, specific vendors requested. 

DEAN - Again, not all vendors want to or can afford to come. We lost a few the last minute due to emergencies. We’re looking into making changes in how the Marketplace is run next year, adding a greater variety of vendors.

11. Gala – only one bar set up.

DEAN - That was a hotel mistake. I have some new ideas for next year’s event.

12. Welcome Party – hotel did not offer free libation as mentioned in a brochure.

DEAN - We forgot to remove the free drink listed from the program book. The cost of providing 1 free drink was cost prohibitive and we weren’t notified about it until just before we went to print.

Sincerely,

Valarie LaBore, Costume College Dean 2024