Meeting planners can get a jump start to elite status with Marriott Rewards. Beginning July 15, 2009, all qualified groups, meetings and events will now count toward the elite status of the event planner through the Rewarding Events program. Meeting planners will earn 10 elite nights for each qualifying Rewarding Events and can combine these nights with elite nights earned from other guest stays. For example, you can plan three meetings and earn 30 elite nights plus 20 hotel guest nights and earn a total of 50 elite nights, the equivalent of Gold status. Plus, any event held in 2009, even those completed prior to July 15, will be added to your elite night account balance.

Bottom line: Meeting planners will continue to earn three points or one mile for every dollar spent on events with a maximum of 50,000 points or 15,000 miles per event. Now Marriott is practically giving away elite status to event planners. Members will reach Silver elite status after booking just one event. Go to http://insideflyerus.wpengine.com/link/?1703 for more information.