Event Story
Elevating Group Experiences at Naviva®: The Power of Multi-Wave Buyouts
For planners looking to create the ultimate exclusive experience by transforming an entire Four Seasons property into their very own, multi-wave buyouts are an innovative way our teams are accommodating groups of all sizes.
With the same program unfolding multiple times – whether back-to-back or over the course of several months – planners have endless options across our properties, big and small. Instead of one larger event, they can host a series of more intimate experiences, repeating the same tailored program for additional waves of attendees. For programs that may have outgrown our smaller properties, this approach is an incredible way to bring a luxury Four Seasons experience to larger groups.
According to Soma Kim Klingensmith, Account Director for Incentive Group Sales at Four Seasons: “I’ve had clients who love a specific destination, but they didn’t initially consider Four Seasons, simply based on our property’s number of guest rooms. After exploring other brands that physically fit their group, they weren’t satisfied with the overall offering. They came to me ready to compromise on their group size or to look at overflow options, just so they could host their group at Four Seasons. When I suggested the idea of a multi-wave buyout, they were thrilled. No compromises needed!”
Providing the perfect example of a multi-wave buyout: the team at Naviva®, A Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, México, one of our smallest hotels, hosted a major global company’s four-night program over two consecutive weeks.
NAVIVA’S UNIQUE BENEFITS FOR BUYOUTS
Opened in December 2022, Naviva is a luxury boutique resort on Mexico’s Pacific coast, where design and nature harmoniously intersect. With a focus on personalized experiences – from wellness to adventure – this adult-only, all-inclusive retreat encompasses 48 acres (19 hectares) and features just 15 luxury tented bungalows with a maximum capacity of 30 guests. The fact that it’s located right next to Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita provides a key opportunity for clients, letting them tap into resources across both properties.
As Resort Manager Eduardo Sempre points out, “At Naviva, you have your own Four Seasons Resort all to yourself, giving you total privacy as well as complete flexibility for on-site branding and personalization. Your group becomes the single focus for our team, and we make sure each guest feels truly special and appreciated with a custom-designed experience.”
BUILDING A RELATIONSHIP WITH EVERY ATTENDEE
This client knew they loved the eco-tourism spirit of Naviva, but they were curious how a resort that offers individually customized itineraries would translate for a group experience.
“We were confident we could find the ideal balance,” says Eduardo. “We knew we could craft opportunities for guests to connect as a group, while also allowing for personal time and flexibility, so everyone could enjoy the true essence of Naviva.”
Just as with Naviva leisure guests, every attendee received an advance call from the property, allowing the team to understand their preferences for diet and activities – really getting to know them individually and starting to build a personal relationship. These calls heightened anticipation for the event, while also helping the Naviva team create custom-tailored itineraries. The personal programs incorporated both individual and group activities, providing opportunities for team building and forging deeper connections.
CREATING A CUSTOMIZED EXPERIENCE FOR EACH GUEST
When attendees arrived at the property, they were each escorted to an ultra-private luxury bungalow, resembling a one-bedroom suite, complete with a plunge pool and views of the jungle and Pacific Ocean. Every attendee received personalized Naviva welcome amenities, along with their custom itinerary. Signature Naviva adventures included morning hikes, snorkeling, sound healing workshops and spa experiences in the House of Heat temazcal. Off-site options featured yachting along the coast, deep-sea fishing and golfing at Punta Mita’s two Jack Nicklaus courses.
Dining at Naviva typically involves no set menus or designated meal times. Guests simply arrive at Copal Cocina restaurant and talk to the chefs about what’s fresh and what they’re in the mood for. This personalized approach was reflected in several meals throughout the program, providing guests with an authentic taste of Naviva’s offerings.
Complementing the highly tailored meals, the culinary team curated group dining experiences, thoughtfully incorporated into the broader program for key moments of connection. The welcome reception featured an authentic Mexican feast with local specialties served family style, as well as a mezcal and tequila tasting. As Eduardo explains, “The tasting on the first night was a great ice breaker, building bonds and setting the stage for the week.”
In the following days, they hosted “the ultimate pool party,” with a gourmet lunch, tropical cocktails and a live DJ. The farewell gala was a barefoot dinner on the beach, including a shoe valet and a fabric-lined pathway across the sand. The three-course plated dinner came to life with entertainment by a musical trio and a group of fire dancers, creating an unforgettably magical night.
POWERFUL RESULTS AND INSPIRING POSSIBILITIES
At the end of the multi-wave buyout, the client shared that all their attendees had been completely impressed and inspired by the experience, with both waves receiving rave reviews in the post-event feedback. Guests even commented on the level of personalized service, recognizing that every member of Naviva’s 90-person team was exclusively dedicated to their group.
The event planner loved the repeatability of signature moments in the itinerary, and yet each wave felt entirely special and significant. Operating the program multiple times strengthened relationships and trust with the on-site team, making the events even more seamless. By having full run of the entire resort, the planner also appreciated the flexibility to adjust event timing as needed.
In the end, every attendee left feeling personally recognized and appreciated – which was the program’s primary goal. The unique opportunity to curate their own activities gave them the same luxurious experience of a personal vacation, heightening their overall experience.
“I’ve seen multi-wave buyouts executed brilliantly at our Four Seasons properties in Costa Rica, Maui, Nevis and Golden Triangle in Thailand,” says Soma Kim. “It’s an approach that opens up many exciting new destinations for customers who want the elevated style and personalization of Four Seasons, but who may think their programs are too large for some of our properties.”
“I encourage clients to reach out, whichever Four Seasons region they have in mind,” Soma says. “Our property teams are so creative, they can come up with brilliant, unexpected solutions – rethinking our venues and even incorporating villa and residence inventory. Multi-waves are definitely worth discussing!”
