Top 3 Things to Consider When Choosing a Hawaii DMC
Hiring the right Hawaii DMC (Destination Management Company) can make or break the success of your program. As a meeting planner, it’s essential to look beyond brochures and branding to find a DMC that offers real value, personal accountability, and true local expertise. Here are the top three things to consider before making your decision:
1. Evaluate the Actual Person Managing Your Program—Not Just the Brand
Many long-established DMCs in Hawaii promote their legacy, but meeting planners should look deeper. The reputation of a company built decades ago may not reflect the people working there today. Ask yourself: Who is actually running my program? What is their personal credibility, local knowledge, and hands-on experience? Relationships, logistics, and problem-solving come down to the individual—not the logo.
Pro tip: Ask for the name, background, and recent programs managed by the person assigned to you. Don’t settle for vague assurances based on legacy.
2. Look for a DMC with Deep Local Vendor Relationships
In Hawaii, who you know still matters. Your DMC should have strong relationships with venues, transportation providers, caterers, entertainers, and cultural groups. These partnerships translate into better rates, exclusive access, and smoother execution.
A Hawaii DMC with true local connections can secure spaces and services that others can’t, from beachfront venues to off-the-beaten-path experiences. Don’t just ask what a DMC can do—ask how often they’ve actually done it in the last 12 months.
3. Consult the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau (HVCB)
Before signing with any DMC, reach out to the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau (HVCB) for insights. As the official destination authority, HVCB has a pulse on the real players in the market—those delivering high-quality experiences versus those relying on past reputations.
They can provide recommendations, verify credentials, and give unbiased feedback about the companies and individuals you’re considering. A credible Hawaii DMC should have a positive standing with HVCB and active involvement in the local meetings and events community.
Visit the Meet Hawaii website: https://www.meethawaii.com (Ask about me!)
Final Thoughts: Choose People, Not Just Companies
When hiring a Hawaii DMC, don’t be dazzled by legacy or corporate size. Focus on the real people, local relationships, and endorsements from trusted authorities. Hawaii is a unique and dynamic destination—and you deserve a DMC partner who understands it deeply and delivers with excellence.
Pro tip: Just go to http://www.oahugenius.com and let’s start planning!
