MPI Netherlands celebrated its 30th anniversary with an intimate Legends Dinner at Hotel Okura Amsterdam, bringing together 30 people who have played a significant role in the association and the Dutch MICE industry over the past three decades.
The anniversary event, held in November 2025, was designed as both a celebration and a tribute to the people who have helped shape MPI Netherlands since its foundation. The guest list included current and former members as well as key stakeholders from the meetings and events sector.
The evening began with drinks at the hotel’s Twenty Third Bar, followed by a selection of starters from Michelin-starred Yamazato Restaurant. Dinner was served in the Heian Room, which had been given a seasonal winter setting. The evening concluded with a musical performance by three singers, followed by an opportunity for guests to network.
Japanese hospitality
Hotel Okura Amsterdam played an active role in shaping the event, with the hotel’s Japanese hospitality philosophy, Omotenashi, reflected in both the service and the preparation.
According to the hotel, the banquet team worked closely with the organisers on the timing of the dinner and entertainment, including adjusting the dessert service to fit the musical performance.
Other details were designed specifically around the anniversary. The flowers on the tables, for example, were chosen in MPI Netherlands’ signature blue, while the hotel’s staff ensured that the coat racks were moved between locations throughout the evening so that guests did not have to worry about their belongings.
Jeroen van Ark, chairman of MPI Netherlands and owner of Next Level DMC, said the dinner was intended to recognise the people behind the association’s development.
“This Legends Dinner was more than just a celebration. It was a tribute to everyone who has shaped MPI Netherlands over the past three decades,” said Van Ark. “Hotel Okura Amsterdam was the perfect partner for this anniversary. Their Omotenashi philosophy created a seamless experience in which our guests were fully taken care of.”
Sandrine Versavel, Commercial Director at Hotel Okura Amsterdam, said the partnership with MPI reflected the hotel’s role in the meetings and events industry.
“MPI is a great partner to work with,” she said. “It was a strong collaboration in which we were able to advise the organisers and help realise the objectives of the evening.”
Versavel also highlighted the significance of recognising people who have contributed to the events industry. Hotel Okura’s Grand Ballroom, she noted, has hosted numerous industry figures and events during the past 25 years.
With the winter season approaching, the hotel sees the anniversary dinner as an example of how its event spaces can be used for smaller, atmospheric gatherings as well as larger corporate events.
