A few years back, we hosted a virtual event with the Yelp Elite Squad, and we had so much fun. There was such a big interest, and it was always on our wish list to invite the Yelp Elite squad back for an in-person event!
What is the Yelp Elite Squad?
From the Yelp website: “The Yelp Elite Squad is our way of recognizing people who are active in the Yelp community and role models on and off the Yelp site. Elite-worthiness is based on a number of things, including well-written reviews, high quality photos, a detailed personal profile, and a history of playing well with others.”
Our dreams came true this May when we had a chance to host a Yelp Elite event at the Inn! We invited Yelpers from the Phoenix Region, Northern AZ Region, and Southern AZ region. We worked with other local businesses and put together a really fun itinerary for the squad that would allow them to experience a sample of all Pine and Strawberry.
Here’s how they spent their weekend:
Friday night
Happy Hour at Pine Provisions
Pizzas from OCI at the Lower Park Yard
Check into accommodations at The Strawberry Inn
Saturday
Saturday morning: Windmill Coffee hosted a coffee session and a “meet and greet” with Dan and Marina Berryman.
Saturday mid-day: Choose Your Own Adventure! We offered the Squad a couple of different options including a nature hike or going antiquing and shopping.
Saturday afternoon: Private tour of Pine Creek Canyon Lavender Farm. The squad had the opportunity to meet the owners, tour the historic buildings, and sample lavender treats.
Saturday evening: Music and mingling under the stars at the Lower Park Yard. We had fantastic treats from Kim at Pie Bar, and desserts from Pine Creek Fudge and Espresso.
The highlight of the weekend for us was definitely Saturday evening! It was drizzling just before the event started, and the rain let up right on time. We were treated to an incredible double rainbow right as the event kicked off too - if that's not a sign of a great time, I don't know what is. We are so honored that we got to meet all of these wonderful individuals! They do so much for small businesses across Arizona, and are definitely the “taste makers” of the state. I loved hearing about the amazing experiences they’ve been able to have.
I definitely give the Yelp Elite Squad 5 stars! It was an amazing weekend, and apparently the largest event they’ve ever done. If you want to re-create their itinerary for yourself, save the image below for your next trip to Strawberry!
If you have a big group and are looking for a big group getaway to experience a similar weekend (corporate retreat, family reunion, birthday getaway, or anything else), we’d love to chat! We have special booking options for big groups and LOVE helping put together epic getaways. Click here for some info on hosting your big group getaway at The Strawberry Inn!
We can’t wait to collaborate on a future event with Yelp! Thank you, Yelp Elite Squad!
Comments