TEAMS Conference and Expo:
Our Top 3 Pre-Conference Game Plays
By Ben Landis, Marketing Manager
Are you gearing up for the TEAMS Conference and Expo in the Palm Beaches? Well, congratulations! You're about to embark on an exciting journey filled with networking opportunities, insightful sessions, and the chance to grab as many free pens and branded water bottles as humanly possible.
But before you walk into that conference center with your badge hanging around your neck, there are a few things you should probably do. Because, you know, you're not a rookie, right? (Well, if you are, you are the rookie of the year!)
1. Prepare for the Weather
Palm Beach, Florida—a land where weather forecasts are as predictable as a roulette wheel. You could obsessively check the weather every hour, plan your wardrobe accordingly, and then still end up in a sudden downpour or an impromptu heatwave.
It’s wise to pack a mix of clothing: comfortable, breathable outfits for the day, and a light jacket or shawl for the cooler evenings. Don't forget your sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the Florida sun. Staying comfortable and protected ensures you can focus on the conference content without distractions. Always be prepared for Florida's bipolar weather, or just embrace the unpredictability.
2. Practice Your Elevator Pitch
Imagine this: you're at TEAMS, and you suddenly find yourself face to face with a potential business contact. What do you do? Well, you could have a polished elevator pitch ready, showcasing your skills, experience, and the fact that you've attended this conference to make meaningful connections. Or you could mumble something about the weather and hope they'll forget your awkwardness. Your choice!
But since we know you’re the MVP, we’re confident you will have your elevator pitch down. However, if you need some inspiration, here’s a sample elevator pitch:
“Hi, I'm [your name], and I specialize in [your area of expertise]. With [X years] of experience, I've successfully [highlight a significant achievement or milestone]. I'm passionate about [mention what drives you in your profession], and I'm eager to connect and explore potential collaboration opportunities with [insert company name of the person you are talking with.]”
Now go close that deal, you stud.
3. Google is Your New BFF (Best Fact Finder)
In the age of technology, ignorance is a choice. Before you run into the conference chaos, do some homework. Research the event, the key speakers, and the latest buzz in the industry. The more you know, the less you'll stand out as the person who thought TEAMS stood for "The Epic Annual Meeting Spectacle" (note: it doesn't — It’s Travel, Events, and Management in Sports!)
Impress others with your knowledge of the expo floor layout and dazzle them with insights into the panel discussions. Google can be your secret weapon. The better prepared you are, the more likely you are to succeed.
Attending the TEAMS Conference and Expo is like navigating a maze of PowerPoint slides and business card exchanges. With the right attire, an elevator pitch, and a sprinkle of Google magic, you'll be ready to conquer the corporate world, one slightly less awkward interaction at a time.
We’re wishing you the best of luck, and if you want to chat with a Destination Marketing Organization with a team full of MVPs, Discover Santa Clara® will be at TEAMS. Stop by our booth and let’s build an event that is worthy of champions.
Fill out the form below to book some time with us!
Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month in Santa Clara 2024: AAPI-Owned Restaurants
By Ben Landis, Marketing Manager at Discover Santa Clara
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. This month is dedicated to celebrating the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders on American culture and society. According to recent census data, Santa Clara has a significant Asian population, comprising 45.9% of the city's demographic makeup, specifically categorized as "Asian alone."
We are proud to be the home of many Asian-American residents and businesses. There are numerous AAPI-owned businesses spread throughout Santa Clara that we encourage you to explore. Notably, along El Camino Real, there is a stretch of various strip malls containing many fantastic Korean-owned restaurants, an area Santa Clara proudly calls “Koreatown.”
There are countless businesses, and we couldn't possibly name them all, but we recommend researching some spots on Yelp or Google. To get you started, here are some fan-favorite restaurants that the team at Discover Santa Clara has visited and recommended.
1. Rantei Japanese Cuisine
Rantei Japanese Cuisine is a community favorite among Santa Clara residents. This cozy spot boasts a low-key ambiance. If you visit on a random weekday evening, you'll find a lively environment full of loyal patrons—a true testament to the deliciousness of the food.
Here, you can enjoy classic Japanese dishes such as sushi, sashimi, and various noodle and rice dishes. Each dish is beautifully plated and bursting with flavor.
Rantei offers a wide array of delicious options, but if you're looking to sample their signature offerings, the Chirashi Don Combination and Kaisen Don are essential choices. If you’re up for an adventure, try the Omakase Sushi (Japanese for 'I’ll leave it up to you'), where you will be offered an assortment of the chef’s selection of specialty fish. The Omakase dining experience allows the chef to showcase seasonal and specialty ingredients, presenting their skills and creativity. Rantei Japanese Cuisine is a Santa Clara staple and should be on your list of places to check out.
Address: 1271 Franklin Mall, Santa Clara, CA 95050
Check out this Instagram Reel we created about Rantei Japanese Cuisine to get a sneak peek of what you can expect.
2. Puranpoli
We haven’t forgotten our vegetarians; this next spot is especially for you! Puranpoli is an authentic vegetarian Indian restaurant that specializes in Maharashtrian cuisine. The ambiance is delightfully unassuming and casual, yet the restaurant offers top-notch service and delicious food. Don't let the relaxed setting fool you—prepare to be impressed!
Here, you can savor classic dishes like Vada Pav, Misal Pav, Sabudana Vada, Palak Paneer, Kadai Paneer, and Sukhi Batata Bhaji, among others. These dishes are expertly seasoned, showcasing the chefs' mastery of an abundance of spices.
Address: 3074B Scott Blvd Santa Clara, CA 95054
The Discover Santa Clara team visited Puranpoli recently, check out this Instagram Reel to check out the experience for yourself.
3. Seorai Korean BBQ
Are you searching for the perfect place to gather with friends? Look no further than Seorai Korean BBQ, nestled in the heart of Santa Clara's Koreatown. Korean BBQ is best enjoyed surrounded by friends and family, making Seorai the ideal destination for a memorable group dining experience.
At Seorai, you can indulge in beloved dishes like the Seafood Pancake, Corn Cheese, and a variety of soups and noodle dishes. Yet, the true star of the show is their selection of classic KBBQ meats—brisket, galbi, pork belly, and more, each expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection. You can choose to order a la carte or opt for one of their specially curated BBQ Combos. Whether you're a Korean BBQ aficionado or a curious newcomer, Seorai promises an authentic and delightful culinary adventure.
Address: 3044 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95051
The Discover Santa Clara team visited Seorai Korean BBQ check out this Instagram Reel to check out the experience for yourself.
4. Dumpling Capital
Dumpling Capital is another neighborhood gem in Santa Clara that should be on your radar. This spot is an authentic Chinese restaurant specializing in Shanghainese cuisine. If the name "Dumpling Capital" leaves you guessing, here's a hint: you should definitely try their specialty—dumplings!
There are plenty of options to choose from, including Xiao Long Bao (Shanghai Soup Dumpling), Pork & Shrimp Siu Mai, and Shanghai Pan Fried Soup Dumplings—just a few of the classic dishes to get you started. You can also explore other fan favorites like Salt & Pepper Fish, Chow Mein, Fried Rice, and Green Onion Pancake to round out your dining experience.
Fun fact: Dumplings represent wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture and are often made (and eaten) with family and friends during Chinese New Year as a group activity. However, you can enjoy them year-round because they are absolutely delicious, and Dumpling Capital in Santa Clara is one of the best places to savor some amazing Chinese dumplings.
Address: 5075 Stevens Creek Blvd Ste 10 Santa Clara, CA 95051
Check out this Instagram Reel we created about Dumpling Capital to get a sneak peek of what you can expect.
5. Sulbing Café
Finally, do you have a sweet tooth? We've saved dessert for last: you've got to try Sulbing Café. Dive into the delightful world of Bingsu, a milk-based shaved ice Korean dessert. Depending on your chosen flavor, it can include a variety of different toppings.
Sulbing Café offers a wide array of amazing flavors, including Mango, Strawberry, and Green Tea. During our visit, we indulged in the Tiramisu Sulbing, which features a slice of tiramisu on top of the shaved ice, accompanied by a cup of espresso to pour over the Bingsu, enhancing its flavors beautifully.
Located in the same shopping plaza as Seorai Korean BBQ, Sulbing Café is the ideal place to finish off a delicious meal. After enjoying a hearty Korean BBQ, consider saving some room for dessert and trying out Sulbing Café. You won’t be disappointed!
Address: 3050 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95051
Check out this Instagram Reel we created about Sulbing Cafe to get a sneak peek of what you can expect.
Honorable mention: Jiaren Cafe
Jiaren Cafe is an amazing AAPI and women-owned coffeeshop in Santa Clara. We have written a blog post about this spot that you should check out here. (Discover Santa Clara has also made an Instagram Reel about Jiaren Cafe.)
Address: 1171 Homestead Rd #140b, Santa Clara, CA 95050
All these spots mentioned are amazing and we've only scratched the surface of what Santa Clara has to offer. We encourage you to explore other AAPI-owned businesses along El Camino Real and beyond. Check out our Instagram @DiscoverSantaClara to stay in the know about the latest and greatest places in Santa Clara.
Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month by supporting these fantastic local eateries and many others and experiencing the diverse flavors of Asia right here in Santa Clara.