Luxury Experience

  • Orlando, Florida

  • September 3-5, 2025

  • Conrad Orlando

Smart Meetings Hosted Buyer Experiences are 100% complimentary for qualified meeting planners.

Create Unforgettable Moments at Conrad Orlando

Where elegance meets innovation, Conrad Orlando stands as a beacon of luxury for the next event. Within the gates of Evermore Orlando Resort, the venue offers a refreshing escape into a world where event goals are the priority. Spanning over 65,000 sq. ft., the flexible event spaces include the majestic Acacia and Jacaranda Ballrooms, each designed to provide an exquisite setting for any gathering. The resort’s array of outdoor venues, from verdant lawns to pristine beaches, offers a picturesque backdrop for any occasion. With exclusive amenities, from a tranquil spa to adventurous aquatic activities, Conrad Orlando promises an event experience that is as enriching as it is memorable. Let the next event reach new heights, where every detail is a masterpiece of perfection.

Come Early for a Pre-Education Session!

Scott Frankel

Scott is the President of Animatic Media, an industry leader in event production, technology trends, and best practices with event technology evolving every day. Scott’s ‘Must See Event Technology Trends’ helps meeting professionals lend insight into the hottest trends in event-related technology. His comprehensive session will teach you what’s available, what technology to embrace, and which ones to stay away from. See the technology in use at this session and take action items you can implement TODAY!

Mastering the Hotel Site Visit Panel

We have all been on site visits that can feel more like a visit to the dentist’s office. Our time is valuable. Let’s make the most of it.

Three event pros have agreed to spill their best-kept secrets for making the most of a pre-event tour. Our experts, PMC Senior Events Procurement Manager Michelle Thornton, Terramar Vice President of Global Engagement Kate Patay and Visit Sacramento Chief Convention Sales & Services Officer Mariles Krok, will talk about the red flags you should never ignore, the clever questions that get you the real answers, and the little-known perks you didn’t even know you could negotiate.

Expect real talk, a few jaw-dropping stories, and expert advice that will ensure your next site visit isn’t just a hotel tour—it’s a power move. Bonus: You will leave with some visitor etiquette that will open doors for you in the future.

Michelle Thornton

Michelle Thornton is an award-winning events producer, writer, and procurement manager specializing in corporate event planning & operations. In her role at Penske Media Corporation, she leverages her expertise in procurement to optimize event resources, negotiate strategic partnerships, and drive cost-effective solutions without compromising creative vision.

woman smiling in front of pink background

Kate Patay

Creating luxury experiences for attendees means crafting unforgettable moments that go beyond expectations. From personalized touches to high-end amenities, every detail is designed to immerse guests in comfort, sophistication, and exclusivity. Explore ideas for elevating events by offering unique, curated experiences that make attendees feel valued and engaged, ensuring your event leaves a lasting impression.

Mariles Krok

Mariles Krok, CMP, CMM, CATP is a 25+ year veteran of the Hospitality/Meetings & Convention Industries. She started her career in hospitality with Marriott International, where she held several operations and sales positions in the greater Los Angeles area. She transitioned into the Destination Marketing Organization industry with Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board then became vice president of meeting and partnership sales for Visit Anaheim. Mariles is currently chief convention sales & services officer for Visit Sacramento where she leads and manages the Convention Sales and Destination Services teams to promote and sell the destination to conventions, tradeshows, meetings, and events in the State Capital of California. Krok is an active member and past president of Meeting Professionals International Southern California Chapter (MPISCC) and has served on Meeting Professionals International’s Board Development Committee and Chapter Member Advisory Council (CMAC).

Jen Buck

With 25+ years of experience, Jen Buck has energized over a million people with her wit, warmth, and professionalism. A Top 100 Speaker to Watch, she holds 8 Master Trainer certifications and is a Certified Professional Coach. A former COO and Chief of Staff, she leads 30,000 people daily in one of the nation's largest women’s organizations.

INSPIRE, ENGAGE, IMPACT!

How do the best companies and leaders win BIG? They put their people first and understand that engagement must be a primary business directive. They take care of the people, and in return, the people take care of the business. The “Inspire, Engage, Impact!” keynote is positioned to transform leaders by providing impactful strategies to enhance employee engagement and drive organizational success. This dynamic session will inspire attendees to adopt innovative approaches that foster a culture of motivation and collaboration within their teams. By sharing practical techniques and success stories, the keynote will empower leaders to cultivate meaningful connections, boost morale, and maximize productivity. Attendees will gain valuable insights into leveraging employee strengths, promoting inclusivity, and aligning organizational goals with individual aspirations. Ultimately, this transformative and high-energy experience will equip leaders with the tools and mindset needed to create thriving work environments that unlock the full potential of their teams, driving sustainable impact and growth for their company.

Luxury Experience Schedule

Wednesday, September 3, 2025 - All Times Local Standard Time

9:00 am - 12:00 pm Breakfast & Education Session
12:00 pm - 4:00 pm White Glove Welcome: Guest Registration & Gifting Lounge & Check-In
4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Idea Exchange - Keynote Speaker
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm Explore the Floor: Property Tour
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Networking Celebration: Reception & Dinner

Thursday, September 4, 2025 - All Times Local Standard Time

7:30 am - 8:30 am Breakfast Social
8:45am - 10:00 am Instant Start to Smart - Keynote Speaker
10:15 am - 12:30 pm Meet Your Matches
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm Luncheon
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Build & Bond Brilliantly: Team Activity
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm #MeTime
6:00 pm - 9:30 pm Ms. B’s Offsite Bash

Friday, September 5, 2025 - All Times Local Standard Time

7:30 am -9:00 am Breakfast Social
9:00 am - 12:00 pm Meet Your Matches
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Seal the Deal Feast: Luncheon
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm #Departures

The Details

Smart Meetings Hosted Buyer Experiences are 100% complimentary for qualified meeting planners. Hotels and Destination Partners, please contact our sales team at salesteam@smartmeetings.com for your best available rate.

We use a sophisticated software to custom match our planners with premier properties and destinations that fit your business needs, region, budget and venue preferences. As the event nears, planners and suppliers will have the opportunity to select their appointment preferences to ensure their highest attendee satisfaction.

A qualified Meeting Planner can attend (1) one hosted buyer experience annually based on business needs. Hotels and destination partners may attend unlimited events. Contact our Sales Team for more information at salesteam@smartmeetings.com

Orlando International Airport MCO

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COUNTDOWN

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Hours

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