Welcome
Letter from the editor
Opinion piece
AI and the future of copywriting
From our US team
Maui
Meet the team
Kate Kelly
Guest feature
Ballyfin, Ireland
Barcelona
A few insider tips from Barcelona
Tell the story
Using technology to enhance, not replace the narrative
Creative quarter
Choosing the Right Destination: More Than Just Logistics
From EMEA
Copenhagen
Welcome
Letter from the editor
Tom Oliver
Spring has arrived and we are excited to share the latest edition of the Ivory Dispatch.
It’s been a busy start to year and for us, that has also included teaming up with the team at Event Concept to join the EC Group.
In this edition we take you around the world from the pacific volcanic islands of Hawaii to country estates in Ireland. There are also some interesting articles from Creative quarter and a latest reflection piece on AI and what this means to us.
We hope you enjoy this edition and look forward to speaking soon.
Opinion piece
AI and the future of copywriting
Lawrie Doran
The YES AND Machine
As a writer, I’ve had the question more than once. Are you worried about AI taking your job? In responding, I do something most Large Language Models find it impossible to do. I shrug. I admit I have no idea.
I don’t think so… but I don’t know.
An LLM is like an enthusiastic improv actor. It replies to whatever you feed it with the statistically most likely next line. LLMs are “yes, and” machines, using the vast corpus of their training data to build on what you’ve asked. And unless they’ve had guardrails programmed in, they don’t consider whether they should answer.
They don’t challenge what you’ve said or suggest a different premise for your argument.
That’s fine for certain situations – more than fine, actually, it’s a time and effort saver. If you have a simple request or research question. If you’re working on something that’s highly templatised in the LLM’s training data.
These are not tasks that demand originality or strategic perspective.
The usual caveats apply. Things may change. AI is advancing daily. But right now, if you want something to agree with you, go to AI. If you want to be creatively challenged, if you want to explore the possibilities you haven’t considered, if you want to be understood, come to an agency with the experience, perspective and skillsets to do that.
From our US team
Maui
The Magic of Maui:
Why the “Valley Isle” is a National Geographic Best of the World for 2026
When National Geographic released its prestigious “Best of the World” list for 2026, one name commanded the spotlight, carrying a legacy that has been powerfully redefined: Maui.
Being named one of the 25 most awe-inspiring and meaningful places on Earth isn’t just a nod to the island’s beauty; it is a recognition of its soul. For Maui, this title marks a powerful return to the global stage, proving that it is not just a destination, but a transformative experience that every traveler should seek at least once in a lifetime.
While many islands offer sun and sand, Maui is one of the few places on the planet that presents a geological “triple threat.” It is a rare landscape where you can stand on three distinctly different shores within a single day, each telling a story of the island’s volcanic birth and aging.
Pristine White Sands: At Kaʻanapali, the classic ivory shores meet turquoise waters, offering the quintessential tropical paradise.
Velvet Black Sands: Journey to Honokalani in Waiʻanapanapa State Park, where the sand is composed of tiny fragments of basalt which is formed when the hot lava met the cold Pacific and shattered instantly.
Terracotta Red Sands: Tucked away in a hidden cove, Kaihalulu is a stunning anomaly. Its deep crimson sands come from a crumbling, iron-rich cinder cone, creating a stark, alien-like contrast against the sapphire sea.
Meet the team
Kate Kelly
Hello, my name is Kate Kelly, and I am an Executive Producer at Ivory. I grew up in New Hampshire and Philadelphia and spent several years living in New York City after college. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management, as well as a Master of Arts in Fashion Event Production and a Master of Science in Executive Sports Management and Production.
I began my career as a volunteer backstage dresser at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City in 2007, where I quickly realized my passion for the industry. I was intrigued by the intensity, emotion, pressure and relationships formed while planning a project. I went on to work several seasons of New York Fashion Week as a venue manager before expanding into a broader range of experiential events, including festivals and product launches.
Later, I transitioned to producing Upfront and Newfront tours, as well as a variety of fashion, music, food, corporate, sports, tech and pharmaceutical events.
Outside of my professional work, I am passionate about my family, sports, physical fitness, reading, the arts, travel, music, and writing. I am especially inspired by the creative process behind events—bringing ideas to life and transforming concepts into meaningful experiences.
Guest feature
Ballyfin, Ireland
Ballyfin tell you about their unique offer for executive groups
There are country house hotels, and then there is Ballyfin, a 5 star hotel like no other. Set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains in County Laois, just over an hour’s drive from Dublin Airport. 21 individually designed rooms and suites sit within the main house, alongside the two-bedroom Gardener’s Cottage set within the walled garden. Together, the estate may be taken on by room or an exclusive-use basis, offering complete privacy and full reign of the house and grounds.
Ballyfin offers an exceptional setting for intimate meetings and leadership retreats, combining refined luxury with a deep sense of privacy and calm. Set within a magnificent private estate and restored to the highest standard, the house provides elegant yet understated spaces that naturally encourage focus, open conversation, and strategic thinking.
At the centre of daily life sits Ballyfin’s eight-acre walled garden, supplying the kitchen with fruit, vegetables and herbs throughout the seasons. Executive Chef Richard Picard-Edwards works closely with the garden team to shape menus around what the land yields; in early 2025, the kitchen was awarded a Michelin star.
If you are looking for a break from the boardroom discussions then Ballyfin offers a range of pursuits that feel intrinsic to the estate rather than programmed: private falconry with Harris Hawks and Peregrine Falcons, clay pigeon shooting, archery, horse riding and fishing.
With discreet service, a dedicated meeting room, and the option of exclusive use, groups can work without distraction, while the surrounding parkland, gardens, and fireside rooms create opportunities for reflection and informal connection.
Ballyfin’s residential feel, exceptional cuisine, and tailored experiences make it especially well-suited to senior teams seeking meaningful dialogue, creative problem-solving, and a retreat that feels both purposeful and restorative.
Barcelona
A few insider tips from Barcelona
From Berta Tortajada
This quarter we hear from our Barcelona office.
The heartbeat of the office is Berta Tortajada, a real pillar of the Ivory production team, who we’re lucky enough to have worked with for over a decade. From flagship stands at Mobile World Congress to C-suite meetings, Berta’s insight and logistical flair translate into world-class service with an authentic touch.
Here is a taste of the local landscape and cultural nuances; a few of our favourite properties and off the beaten track eating spots in Barcelona:
Starting with the culinary scene, eat like a local at Gat blau or head to the local temple of Seafood at botafumeiro. And if you are the hunt for a hidden gem for an executive dinner, look no further than El Passadís del Pep.
Have an executive meeting need, we recommend trying the Cotton House Hotel in the city centre or Serras Barcelona, found in the marina area. Something larger? It’s a stalwart of Barcelona now but the Hotel Arts continues to deliver.
After all that, if you fancy a vermut and nibbles then head to Morro Fi. Tip: best is the one on Consell de Cent street (Pedestrian street), so you can get the vermut, crisps, anchovies… and enjoy the sun and people watching!
Vive Barcelona como nunca antes. ¿Nos vemos pronto por allí?
Tell the story
Using technology to enhance, not replace the narrative
Jon Hodges
It’s easy to be drawn to the immediacy of immersive technologies. VR, AR, object recognition tables, spatial audio, haptics… there’s a lot out there, and it all promises moments of real impact.
But that impact will be short-lived if the underlying narrative isn’t fully considered. It’s the old familiar tension: we know narrative should lead, shaping the choice of medium and ensuring technology serves a purpose. The reality is more complex. Available technologies are finite, there are hardware, environments and budget constraints, and development costs can quickly skyrocket. Often, the content is forced to adapt to fit these parameters.
The challenge is to find a balance where you shape the story to meet the medium, and take advantage of its strengths, but the medium never directs the message. The story must remain clear and in focus. This tension often leads the most creative, effective solutions to emerge.
To do this, it’s important to explore the technological possibilities and the story possibilities in parallel, not in isolation. Shaping the narrative and navigating the possibilities of different platforms together. Storytellers working closely with technologists.
Ivory is now part of the EC Group. With in-house AV, technical delivery and scenic build, this partnership offers us new opportunities to think holistically about how experiences come together, digitally and physically, without losing sight of the core narrative.
Ultimately, it’s all about using technology intentionally and deliberately. Choosing the right tools to serve the story.
Creative quarter
Choosing the Right Destination:
More Than Just Logistics
It starts with a blank canvas.
A few considerations below before you set off on a search.
The perfect venue for a group event is never simply a matter of convenient flight routes and enough bedrooms. While logistics matter, reducing the decision to practicalities alone is a missed opportunity — and a costly one.
Sustainability must sit at the heart of any serious venue search. Delegates increasingly notice whether a destination reflects the values an organisation claims to hold. A commitment to responsible travel, locally sourced food, and low-impact facilities sends a message before a single session begins.
But perhaps the most undervalued consideration is fit. Every destination carries its own character — its architecture, landscape, energy, and story. When a venue aligns with what you are trying to achieve, it becomes a silent co-presenter. A coastal retreat that encourages reflection. A historic city that anchors a conversation about heritage and legacy. A forward-thinking urban campus that signals innovation. The setting shapes how people feel, how openly they engage, and how vividly they remember.
Choose against the grain, and you spend the entire event fighting the atmosphere rather than harnessing it.
Take the time to ask not just can we fit here but does this place help us say what we need to say? The right answer transforms a meeting into a moment.
From EMEA
Copenhagen
Siobhan Husbands
As spring approaches and the days lengthen the city of Copenhagen walks into the “Awakening “ season shifting from the cozy hygge to a more outdoor focused culture.
Described as the city of neighborhoods Copenhagen comprises of 7 districts with each district having their own distinct personality and history.
District 1
Indre By (The Inner City) The historic heart of Copenhagen set amongst a maze of cobblestone streets and 17th century architecture, Indre By is the best place for first time visitors to soak up the classic fairytale atmosphere. Here you’ll find the colourful Nyhaven harbour and the Royal Amalienborg Palace. It is a powerhouse of European gastronomy offering cuisines from centuries old traditional recipes to the “New Nordic” redefined modern fine dining. Indre By hosts the highest concentration of Michelin star restaurants in Copenhagen.
District 2
Vesterbro (The Trendy Rebel) Once known for its less than desirable district, Vesterbro is now transformed into one of the coolest and eclectic neighborhoods. Home to Tivoli gardens and the “Little Paris” street which sits on the border of Vesterbro and Frederiksburg, The district starts in the Meatpacking District (Kodbyen) where old slaughterhouses now house world class restaurants and galleries. If you’re a foodie this is the district to explore and expand your taste buds.
District 3
Nørrebro (The Multicultural Hub) Initially a working class district. Nørrebro is Copenhagen’s most diverse and vibrant neighbourhood. It is a global culinary and cultural hub famous for its “New Nordic”revolution. This district houses one of the coolest streets known as Jægersborggade which has upgraded itself from one of the more dubious districts to now being home to Michelin-star restaurants, organic bakeries and is the heart of the sustainable and artisanal food movement. From its eclectic street life this district celebrates a mutli-cultural identity with over 50 different nationals who make this their home.
District 4
Østerbro (The Family Oasis) Located north of the city center, Østerbro is home to the famous Little Mermaid statue and known for its expansive green spaces such as Fælledparken which is the largest park in Copenhagen and central to the family friendly oasis. This district has a more relaxed residential pace compared to the other districts. Nicknamed the “Latte District”, its residents tend to be young professionals and academics. As with many of the districts in Copenhagen it has a strong emphasis on sustainability, artisanal craftsmanship and world class fine dining restaurants.
District 5
Christianshavn (The Canal Quarter) Characterised by its Dutch-style canals this district is defined by its beautiful waterways. Founded by King Christian IV in the 1600s. This district is deeply tied to its maritime history and baroque aesthetics.The canals were initially built for trade but they are now lined with colourful houses and houseboats. Famous for its “freetown Christiania” community, Christianshavn is home to Church of Our Saviour a 17th century church which offers panoramic views of the city and famous for its external spiral staircase which winds around the spire.
District 6
Frederiksberg (The Posh Enclave) A city within a city, this independent and affluent municipality is completely surrounded by Copenhagen. This neighbourhood is defined by its royal history and expansive public gardens with grand tree lined boulevards such as Frederiksberg Allé. Copenhagen Zoo is located in the district and is one of Europe’s oldest Zoos. This municipality was originally founded in 1651 as “Ny Amager” where Dutch peasants were brought in to supply the royal court with vegetables. To this day it still houses traces of its Dutch influence which linger in the area’s agricultural history.
District 7
Refshaleøen (The Industrial Frontier) From shipyard to cultural playground Refshaleøen is the ultimate industrial-chic success story. It is inseparable from Burmeister & Wain (B&W) which was once Denmark’s largest workplace, a massive shipyard transformed into a raw, creative and highly sought after district where the soul of the old industry coexists with world-class gastronomy and cutting edge art. Founded in 1843 and during its peak the B&W shipyard employed over 10,000 workers. In 1996 the shipyard closed leaving 500,000 m2 of industrial wasteland. However, in 2014 it gained international fame when the old B&W assembly halls were transformed into the “Eurovision Island” which hosted the Eurovision Song Contest. It has become the epicenter of Copenhagen’s street food scene and home to the largest street food market, as well as one of the world’s most immersive dining experiences, The Alchemist.
