New venue options for special events include the speakeasy "mystery room" at the Arizona Biltmore, the new Experience Meeting program at the Radisson Blue hotels, and new inventives at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Special events business news this week includes a new events director at the Surfcomber in Miami and new managers at Wine Country Party & Event

New for special event pros: A book by floral artist Eddie Zaratsian, a line of customized bars from MMD Events, and a cloud-based photo-branding system for use by guests from PhotoMark.

Big destination management company GEP shutters its company-owned operations, leading observers to question 'chain vs. locally owned' model.

Venue options for special event planners include the new Guerin Paviliion at the Skirball Cultural Center, new spa options at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, and the Blue Train tours of South Africa

Special event industry news for Oct. 23, 2013, includes promotions at Creative Coverings, a new business development manager at The Special Event Company, and a big contract for Social Tables

New products for special events include A1's X-Line furniture, a free colonnade decorating guide from Meese Orbitron Dunne and colorful holiday party tents from Raj Tents

Big party and event rental companies share news on the most popular rental items for special events today.