Reviving a legacy sales kickoff in Puerto Rico.

Challenge #1: Reviving a legacy event post-pandemic.

After shifting to virtual events during the pandemic, the program had lost some of its momentum. With new leadership focused on company culture, this was the first time the team decided to bring in an external event management partner.

Solution: Strategic partnership built on trust.

GoGather started by immersing itself in the company’s history and culture, aligning closely with their internal planning team to ensure every detail honored the event’s legacy. From event logistics to run-of-show execution, our team acted as a true extension of theirs — managing contracts, timelines, and vendor coordination so their focus could stay on people and purpose.

Challenge #2: No clear budget history.

Despite being a long-running event, years of internal ownership meant there wasn’t a consistent or documented budget history to reference. Leadership needed a clear financial picture to make decisions and gain buy-in early in the process.

Solution: Transparent budgeting and reporting.

GoGather developed a detailed forecasting model with multiple budget scenarios and clear cost visibility. Real-time tracking and vendor management allowed leadership to approve decisions confidently and avoid surprises. The event stayed on target financially and for the first time, the team had clean data to guide future planning.

Challenge #3: Location fatigue and limited venue options.

The company’s traditional rotation between Cabo and Cancun was no longer viable. Those destinations were either booked or losing their sense of excitement. They needed a fresh destination that delivered both value and impact.

Solution: Fresh perspective on site selection.

Using GoGather’s hoteling and site selection services, Puerto Rico quickly emerged as the winning choice. With no passport requirements, easy access for U.S. attendees, and stunning venues, it offered both convenience and energy. Our team negotiated strong contract terms and secured ideal spaces for general sessions, networking, and downtime.

Challenge #4: Balancing business with celebration.

This event had to be both a serious kickoff for the new sales year and an energizing reward for a year of hard work. The mix had to feel natural, not forced.

Solution: Agenda design that energizes and connects.

GoGather created a balanced program combining high-energy general sessions, interactive learning, and social events that built genuine connection. From lively receptions to team-building activities, every touchpoint reflected the company’s “work hard, play hard” culture. Partnering with our A/V and production affiliates ensured a seamless flow of content, energy, and engagement throughout the week.

Final results.

The 2025 Sales Kickoff reignited one of the company’s most meaningful traditions and strengthened the bond across regions and teams.

✅ Leadership clarity: Real-time budgeting and reporting delivered new insights for future planning.
✅ Cultural recharge: Employees reconnected and left feeling proud and motivated.
✅ Operational ease: The internal team could focus on content while GoGather handled the logistics.
✅ Legacy renewed: A 50-year tradition reimagined for the next era.