A taste of suburban hospitality

More than 500 people came out see what the suburban hospitality industry has to offer at the 2012 Daily Herald Business Ledger Hospitality Expo/Dupage Thursday.

The fourth annual event drew more than 70 exhibitors to Bobak’s Signature Events in Woodridge. Exhibitors ranged from restaurants and caterers to resorts, hotels, golf courses and specialty businesses. Guests got a taste of food samples from several exhibitors and were able to talk with representatives about planning their corporate events.

Steve Goellner, kitchen manager for D.O.C. Wine Bar at Yorktown Center in Lombard, poured samples of merlot for visitors as he discussed the restaurant’s offering for business events.

“We want to drum up some business and let people know we’re out here,” Goellner, a first-time exhibitor at the Hospitality Expo, said.

For Mary Heitert, owner of The Mystery Shop in Carol Stream, the event fell at the right time to find new clients for holidays event. +She was especially impressed with the facility and event’s organization.

“I go to a lot of expos, so I have a lot to compare this with,” she added.

Chris Craven, advertising team leader for the Daily Herald Business Ledger, said attendees were impressed with the variety of local exhibitors in one venue.

“It’s a great opportunity for both the exhibitor and the audience to connect,” Craven said

The Daily Herald Business Ledger will also hosta Northwest Hospitality Expo from 3-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8 at the Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows. More information and registration for that event can be found on the Daily Herald Business Ledger website, www.dhbusinessledger.com.