Have a question about the conference that’s not answered here? Leave a comment below and we’ll add a response to our FAQs.
What’s the dress code at The Homestead? During the conference, business casual attire is fine for all conference activities. If you are staying at the Homestead before or after the conference, please note jeans are discouraged in The Great Hall, and in the evening, collared shirt and jacket are required in the Dining Room and The 1766 Grille, tie optional in the dining room.
Do I need to make reservations for the spa or other Homestead recreation activities? As a conference registrant, you do not need to make special arrangements for the conference entertainment or other conference activities. However, if you (or your guest) wish to enjoy the spa or any of The Homestead’s recreation activities, advance reservations and appointments are required to ensure preferred times. Please call 800-838-1766.
What about parking? As a conference attendee, you may park for free in the self-parking lot and upper overflow lots (a 10-minute walk or a few minutes using the complimentary shuttle service), or you may use valet parking for $15 per day.
Can I extend my stay at The Homestead? Subject to availability, the $129/night room rate (plus 10% resort fee and applicable taxes) is available to conference attendees three days before and three days after the 2012 conference dates.
What about meals? Conference and guest registration includes buffet breakfast in the dining room on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; lunch on Monday and Tuesday; and delicious buffet dinners on Monday and Tuesday evenings. If you arrive on Sunday, dinner is “on your own.” Should you choose to dine separately in one of the Homestead’s restaurants during the conference, or if you are extending your stay before or after the conference and wish to dine at The Homestead, advance reservations (800-838-1766) are required.
I plan to bring family members. What activities would include them?
I have Celiac disease (no wheat or gluten). Can the Homestead accomodate this or will i need to pack a suitcase of food? Thanks, Barb
The Homestead is equipped to handle most food allergies and dietary restrictions. We’re checking specifically about your requirements, Barb. Watch this space for confirmation that you’ll have wonderful Homestead cuisine that meets your needs. For all our guests with special dietary needs, please make sure to include all the details in your conference registration so that the Homestead culinary staff can prepare accordingly.
May I please be added to any distribution list for requests for speaking proposals?
Thanks,
Wendy
Sure! The window for speaking proposals for the 2012 conference has closed, so be on the lookout for the 2013 Speakers RFP in February 2012.
Could somebody from the exhibitor team call me please? – 216 763 0822
Thanks. Toby Rice
Toby–
I’ve asked Coy Renick to give you a call. If you don’t hear from him, you can reach him at crenick@renickgroup.com or 540-556-4480.
Will there be a late registration option for arrivals on Monday morning?
Hi Jeff,
The conference registration desk will be open on Sunday and Monday to accommodate conference attendees whenever they’re able to arrive. Just register as a regular conference participant, and we’ll look forward to having you join us at The Homestead! Once you’ve registered for the conference, you can make your room reservation for whatever nights you plan to stay.
I’m planning to bring my child and husband? Will the hotel have regular activities for non conference guest? For example room service, non conf Dining option and use of the pool?
Hello Simiran,
We’re so glad your family will get to enjoy a real vacation while you attend the Conference. Weather permitting, the pool will be available throughout the conference. You’ll want to call 1-800-838-1766 to make arrangements for other activities and for non-conference dining. Dining options during the conference may be limited, but the great folks at The Homestead will make sure no one goes hungry. Or you can make a non-conference attendee registration that includes all the meals and entertainment provided for conference attendees. Priced at just $250, this guest package includes three breakfasts at The Homestead’s famous breakfast buffet, two lunches and two dinners.
Hi,
At what point can I sign-up for particular concurrent sessions? I am already registered for the conference and have my room reservations set.
Thank you!
Joelle
Hi Joelle,
We’re excited to see you in April! There’s no need to register in advance for the concurrent sessions. Space in all the breakout rooms will be available on a first-come, first-seated basis…and our programs and logistics teams have been working hard to make sure that there will be ample room for everyone.
Excellent, thank you!
Hi, Who can I call regarding the registration? The person the registration is out of the office for the week?
Some of the sessions in the agenda state they’ve been submitted for “I” or “S” recertification credits. Since I only have a PHR, will those also count as general recertification credits?
Great question, Victoria! Any program that qualifies for International and / or Strategic recertification credit will also count as general recertification credits, so you should feel free to select from any of the concurrent sessions and know that you’re well on your way to PHR recertification. A final list of all programs and their recertification credits, as well as instructions for submitting your information, will be available at the conference. See you then!
Two questions…..any possibility for getting more rooms at the Homestead in the room block?
Also…any options to use American Express to register?
Thanks.
All rooms at The Homestead are currently sold out for the conference dates. There’s always a chance that some people’s plans change and currently reserved rooms become available, but there aren’t any additional rooms to add. (The good news is that this means that this will be the largest Virginia SHRM State Conference yet, and you’ll have a chance to meet, network and learn with more than 530 HR colleagues from around the state!)
Payment for conference registration can be made by Visa, Mastercard, Discover or check. We’re not able to process payments via American Express, but we hope you’ll register using one of the other payment methods available.