Behind every successful event at Leerhotel Het Klooster is a committed team. Banqueting Manager Nina van der Kleij is a familiar face in that team. With years of experience in hospitality and an eye for detail, she ensures that business meetings not only run professionally, but also feel personal.
A broad background in human contact
Nina started her career in the airport at KLM, where she worked on the ground and had daily contact with passengers. She then ran her own management and artist agency for many years and worked extensively in the catering and events world. Her experience is broad, but always revolves around guest contact. "The common thread has always been working with people, in different settings and sectors. When my daughter studied at the Hotelschool Amersfoort and gained her practical experience at Leerhotel Het Klooster, I decided to apply. I wanted to start transferring my knowledge and contribute to hospitality and education in my own hometown." She has now been working at the Leerhotel for seven years, where she works daily to provide every guest with a warm welcome and a perfectly organized experience.
When everything is right, the experience is right
For Nina, a successful day begins before the event has even begun properly. "I always like the moment just before a meeting starts the most. People come in. They look around, are curious and feel that something beautiful is about to happen. That gives energy." For her, during the event it's all about the moment when everything comes together. "When the preparation is right, the contact person feels seen and fully supported and the team fulfills its role smoothly and with attention, I know: we have done well." During that phase, she walks around, checks in with contacts and keeps in touch with students. "Being visible is essential. Hospitality doesn't happen behind the scenes, it happens on the floor."
Students make the difference
Whether serving a one-pan meal or supervising a coffee event, students play a central role. "They are often the face of the event. A brief chat over coffee or a well-timed explanation with the food. That kind of moment stays with guests." It is precisely by being visible that personal contact is created, no matter how big the event. Nina emphasizes, "Whether you are working with three or three hundred guests, people need to feel that they are welcome and that there is someone to fall back on."
She teaches students that hospitality does not take place behind the scenes. "Even if no one asks for anything, you have to be there. It could just be that someone still wants to order something or has a question. Visibility radiates attention and care. That's exactly what makes a meeting personal." Nina sees it as her job to teach students that visibility and timing make all the difference. "Guests regularly give back that they are positively surprised and experience the students as genuinely involved and professional. Their commitment, attention and inquisitive attitude are visibly appreciated and contribute to a positive overall experience."
Details matter
The power of a meeting is often in the little things. "What guests often notice immediately is the lighting," says Nina. "Since we switched to warmer, dimmable lights, I regularly hear that it makes the atmosphere feel more pleasant and calm. Especially when people are working with laptops or tablets, soft light is much nicer than bright white light." But it doesn't stop at light alone. The decoration of the room also does a lot for the experience. Curtains, quiet colors and natural materials create a comfortable atmosphere. "It makes a room feel not purely functional, but also personal and inviting," Nina explains. "And that very thing makes guests really feel at ease and experience the day as enjoyable."
Communication as a common thread
What is the key to a smoothly running event? "Communication. From the first moment of contact to the briefings and guidance on the day itself. When everyone knows what is expected, everything falls into place." According to Nina, communication is not just talking, but also watching, being present and tuning in. "And that doesn't start only on the day itself, but much earlier."
Experience it for yourself
Want to host a meeting where personal attention, professional execution and learning come together? Nina van der Kleij and her team work with our students to provide a hospitality experience that is right in every detail. Feel free to contact us to discuss the possibilities.
You arrive at a beautiful location, the coffee is ready, the water is replenished and the lunch buffet looks to pass muster. Everything seems to flow naturally. But what you don't see is the team behind the scenes that makes sure your meeting at Leerhotel Het Klooster is organized down to the last detail. Meet our banqueting department. Here everything revolves around preparation, craftsmanship and hospitality.
The engine behind your meeting
Banqueting is the beating heart of any meeting. As soon as you book a room with us, an experienced team goes to work to translate your wishes into a hospitable experience. Our students from Hotelschool Amersfoort are ready daily, under the guidance of instructors, to take care of everything around food and drink down to the last detail. From filling water carafes to preparing a luxurious lunch table: every step counts and nothing is left to chance.
Preparing with attention
The day begins early at the Leerhotel. During the briefing we discuss what is planned for the day. How many guests are expected, what dietary requirements are there, and when are breaks or meal times scheduled? With that information, the students get to work. Everything is prepared with care and attention, and you can taste it. Whether it's a smoothie at the reception, a coffee break with homemade treats or a drinks board after your event.
Sustainability in every action
At Leerhotel Het Klooster , we believe that quality and sustainability go hand in hand. In our banqueting kitchen we work with fresh products from our own vegetable garden and local suppliers. We consciously choose reusable materials and reduce waste wherever possible. Every student learns why this is important and how they themselves can play a role in this. Thus, your meeting automatically contributes to a greener future.
Always customized, always involved
No meeting is the same and we understand that. That's why we offer customization. You choose what suits your group and purpose, we make sure it's right. From reception to closing. Our banqueting staff ensure that not only is everything well organized, but that you and your guests feel welcome and seen. Because that is what we are all about: creating an experience that sticks.
You enjoy, we care
Behind every glass of water, every fresh sandwich and every sleek table setting is a team that works with passion to create your meeting. A team that learns, grows and goes for quality every day. And you notice it in everything. Because a meeting at Leerhotel Het Klooster is not only well organized, it also feels good.
Want to learn more about what we can do for your event? Get in touch with us. We would love to think with you.