Villa Park convention center provides family approach in planning events

An interview with Brad Walsh, facility manager at Odeum Expo Center & MG Concessions in Villa Park.

Q: Tell us about the property.

A: The Odeum is a family-owned and operated multiuse facility centrally located just off I-290 and Route 83 in Villa Park. With up to 130,000 square feet of indoor space, and 14-acres of outdoor parking lot, we can host simple breakfast meetings all the way up to association trade shows or motivational seminars, automotive research and training, concerts, and outdoor events. More than 1.2 million people come through our doors on an annual basis. We are celebrating our 35th anniversary this year.

Q: What does the venue have to offer when it comes to corporate events?

A: With more than 85,000 square feet of unique, flexible event space, the Odeum is perfect for almost any type of corporate function. Our South Hall has 22,000 square feet of floor space, plus 1,500 arena seats allowing for audiences of up to 4,000. Our North Hall with 22,000 square feet is great for expos of all kinds. The Upper Mezzanine has 13,000 square feet and overlooks both the South and North Halls. Our banquet room of more than 9,000 square feet can be broken down into four separate soundproof meeting rooms, or utilized as one big banquet space. Plus we have a full-service Lounge that can be used as a private hospitality area where one can get a cocktail or enjoy video slots. Overall, we can accommodate 600 trade-show booths, and all exhibit services and equipment are available in-house, including pipe, drape, tables, chairs, staging, carpeting, electric, AV equipment and so much more. We just upgraded our Wi-Fi capabilities with 150MB so every vendor has no problem getting online to conduct business.

Q: Describe the atmosphere.

A: Being family-owned and operated is a rarity in this day of municipally-owned convention centers. All of the Odeum clients become part of our family, and we work together to make their show a huge success year after year. Our motto is "Set The Date and Leave The Rest To Us." It's not unusual to see Odeum and MG Concessions ownership down on the show floor rigging lights, or in the kitchen helping out with food service.

Q: What attracts clients here when booking meeting space?

A: Location. Location. Location. Being centrally located to the Chicago area, the airports, and easy access from every major expressway makes it a snap for your event attendees and vendors. Plus, being family-owned and operated and a right-to-work facility, creates a perfect combination for controlling the overall costs of any event. Our staff is hands-on in all the details of your event.

- Kim Mikus