6 Lessons in Outdoor Hospitality From an Ultra-Luxe Glamping Site

There’s no denying the beauty of the great outdoors, but Mother Nature isn’t always a reliable event host. From daunting weather to bug bites, outdoor events present a unique set of challenges. To help hospitality profs overcome those challenges, and to elevate any alfresco event, we took some notes from an ultra luxe glamping site in Maine.

Located near Acadia National Park, Under Canvas Acadia puts a glamorous spin on traditional camping. From tents with towel service to upscale seasonal fare, the glamping site is a study in outdoor hospitality with a white-glove touch. So we studied it—via a site visit and an interview with the venue’s director of group sales. Below, find six widely applicable hospitality tips gleaned from the world of glamping.

1. Communication is key.
Shannon Chapman, Under Canvas' director of group sales, emphasizes the importance of managing guests’ expectations before they attend an outdoor event.

“When booking unique venues like ours, it’s important to ensure that guests know what to expect during their stay,” she says. “[This will] incite excitement and set expectations in advance.”

Communication can take any form, depending on the formality of the event. For a multiday meeting or a corporate retreat, consider a custom website containing all pertinent event info. For smaller or less formal events, informative emails dispatched before the event can also teach guests what to expect.

The check-in experience should also be optimized to equip guests with useful info. After checking in to Under Canvas Acadia, guests can opt to watch a demonstration of how to work the wood-burning stoves that are found in each tent. Staffers also provide detailed instructions on using the USB ports in each tent.

2. Set a dress code that emphasizes comfort.
One of the best ways to prepare guests for an outdoor climate? Give them some wardrobe guidance. Outdoor events are subject to varying weather conditions, and the right attire can prevent guests from feeling too chilly, overly warm, or downright awkward.

At Under Canvas, “We encourage everyone to pack layers, as temperatures can vary widely throughout the day across all seasons,” Chapman points out. “For outdoor events, consider footwear that is comfortable to walk on uneven terrain.” But when comfortable shoes won’t hack it, the property offers golf carts to whisk guests from one point of the property to the other.