FAQs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here are the most common asked questions about my services, the hotel sourcing process, and working with HPN Global. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, please don't hesitate to reach out—I'm always happy to address your specific questions or concerns.
About My Services
How much does your service cost?
My services are provided at no cost to you. Hotels pay HPN Global a standard industry placement fee, which allows me to provide expert sourcing and contracting support without adding to your budget. There are no retainers, no hidden fees, and no obligation.
What types of events do you support?
I support conferences, incentive programs, corporate meetings, board meetings, sales meetings, and any group event requiring hotel accommodations—typically 10+ rooms or groups of 25+ attendees.
Do you only work with certain hotel brands?
No. I work with all major hotel brands and independent properties worldwide. HPN Global has established agreements with major brands, but I source based on your needs, not brand limitations.
What geographic areas do you cover?
I support events worldwide. While I'm based in Los Angeles, my network and HPN Global's reach extend to destinations across the United States and internationally.
How far in advance should I contact you?
Ideally, 12-18 months before your event for large conferences, and 6-12 months for smaller meetings. However, I can also support last-minute needs when necessary.
About the Process
How does the hotel sourcing process work?
After an initial consultation to understand your needs, I conduct research, develop and distribute RFPs, review proposals, negotiate rates and terms, and manage contract review. You maintain full control and final approval at every stage.
Will I lose control of the process?
Absolutely not. You maintain full control and decision-making authority. I act as an extension of your team, managing the administrative work and advocacy, but you make all final decisions.
How do you save me money?
Through HPN Global's $400M+ in annual room spend, I have access to competitive rates, concessions, and promotions that aren't available to individual planners. I also negotiate added-value amenities and favorable contract terms.
About HPN Global
What is HPN Global?
HPN Global is one of the largest and most respected meeting and event management firms in the world, founded in 2002. We leverage collective buying power—over $400M in annual room spend—to help clients reduce costs, minimize risk, and enhance attendee experiences.
Why do hotels work with HPN Global?
Hotels value the consistent, high-quality business HPN delivers across industries and meeting sizes. Our volume and reputation provide priority access and negotiating leverage—resulting in better rates, concessions, and flexibility for our clients.
What makes HPN different from other meeting management companies?
HPN has global agreements with major hotel brands designed to better protect clients—especially around attrition, cancellation, and performance clauses.
We also operate with a single-point-of-contact model at most hotel, creating established, long-standing relationships and leveraging HPN’s collective buying power on behalf of every client.
In addition, client names remain confidential during sourcing, reducing unwanted follow-up, preventing hotels from researching prior meeting history, and allowing HPN to control negotiations and maximize value.
About Working Together
What do you need from me to get started?
Just basic information about your event: dates, location preferences, estimated room nights, meeting space needs, and budget parameters. I'll guide you through the rest.
How much of my time will this require?
Minimal. I handle the administrative work, research, and negotiation. You'll be involved in decision points—reviewing proposals, site visits (if desired), and final contract approval.
What if something goes wrong with the hotel?
I serve as your advocate throughout the process and post-contract. If challenges arise—including attrition, cancellation, or performance issues—HPN Global has exceptional experience navigating and mitigating those situations.
Can I contact you outside of business hours?
While I primarily work during business hours, I'm responsive to urgent needs and available via email and phone when situations require immediate attention.
Still Have Questions?
I'm happy to answer any questions you have about my services, the process, or how we might work together.
WHERE MEETINGS HAPPEN
powered by HPN Global
CONNECT WITH ME
By submitting your email, you consent to receive promotional messages from Julie Shkolnik hotel offers and special promotions. Message & Data rates may apply.
What I Do Now
About HPN Global
Why Relationship Matters
Success Stories
Hotels We Work With
Share your Experience
Address
Los Angeles, USA
Phone
323.929.9200
Email
[email protected]