Smart Meetings | Page 12 of 603 | Corporate Event Planning: Business Events, Meetings, Conferences

The 500,000-square-foot Raleigh Convention Center (RCC) is working on welcoming back events following a fire on Monday, Dec. 1 that caused $2 million in damages.

Everyone left the building safely and its interior went unharmed by the fire. Portions of the roof were damaged, and the event spaces were mostly unaffected.

“We can’t express enough how grateful we are for the fast action and bravery of our amazing first responders,” said Kerry Painter, executive director of Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex.

“We appreciate Chief Griffin and every one of the more than 60 personnel who responded. And every department in the City of Raleigh has played a vital role in the progress we’ve made toward getting events back in our venue. The support and collaboration from our colleagues and community have been incredible. This challenge was just such a beautiful testament to all the wonderful people who make Raleigh what it is, and we’re so thankful.”

RCC’s staff have worked with event planners through December to reschedule or cancel their events.

Updates about the fire can be found at raleighconvention.com.

Catching up on your travel news after a hard-earned holiday break? We have you covered.

Miami just dropped its latest tourism figures—and with $21.3 billion in visitor spend, it’s safe to say the Magic City isn’t slowing down anytime soon. England is taking a page from global tourism hubs with a new overnight stay levy, while Delta is bouncing back from a $200 million shutdown hit. In the air, Lufthansa is making travel smoother for passengers with invisible disabilities, and on the seas, Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady is proving that Jamaica’s cruise sector is back in business.

As always, Smart Travel is here to bring you the latest updates shaping the way we move, meet and plan.

Miami Tourism Hits $21.3 Billion as 2026 Momentum Builds

At its annual meeting this November, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) unveiled a strong tourism performance for 2024–2025, with visitor spending reaching $21.3 billion (a 3% year-over-year increase) and 28.2 million total visitors. Nearly a third of that visitation came from within Florida, with domestic travel remaining steady at 46%.

Held at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, the meeting welcomed over 600 partners and civic leaders, including Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. President and CEO David Whitaker said, “These results tell a powerful story about how our destination leaned into global headwinds and the ability of our industry partners to provide the quality of visitor experiences that helped us stand out against our competition. Our hotels remained among the nation’s top performers, with a 2.4% increase in average daily rate.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Miami is gearing up for a global spotlight with the FIFA World Cup, College Football Playoff National Championship and other headline events. The debut of Grand Hyatt Miami Beach Convention Center hotel is also expected to boost convention bookings.

England Grants Mayors Power to Implement Tourist Levy

Mayors across England are getting a new tool to invest in local growth: the power to implement a visitor levy on overnight stays. The measure, announced by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, allows mayors to introduce a modest surcharge on hotel, guesthouse and vacation rental bookings, with proceeds reinvested into transport, infrastructure, culture and tourism.

The goal is to give local leaders the same financial flexibility as peers in global tourism hubs like Paris, Milan and New York without requiring central government approval. England sees more than 130 million overnight stays annually, and mayors say even a small nightly fee could make a big difference.

“Giving mayors the powers to raise a tourist levy is great news for London,” said Mayor Sadiq Khan, who pointed to potential investments in culture, clean streets and entertainment. Liverpool’s mayor highlighted how the funds could help support major events like UEFA EURO 2028, while leaders in York, Manchester and West Yorkshire emphasized the benefit to regional economies and infrastructure.

A 12-week public consultation is now underway to shape how the levy will work. Exemptions are expected for emergency accommodation and other categories.

Delta Blames Shutdown for $200M Profit Hit, But Recovery Is Underway

According to Reuters, Delta Air Lines expects to take a $200 million hit to its fourth-quarter pretax profits after the record-setting U.S. government shutdown disrupted flight operations and bookings across the country. The 43-day lapse in funding forced the FAA to mandate flight cuts at 40 major airports due to air traffic controller shortages, leading to widespread delays and cancellations.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian noted a 5% to 10% dip in bookings during the shutdown but said demand has since bounced back. “We’re looking forward to a strong December, strong close to the year,” Bastian told a Morgan Stanley conference. Despite the setback, Delta shares were up about 3% in afternoon trading.

Delta had previously projected Q4 earnings between $1.60 and $1.90 per share. The shutdown and Hurricane Melissa’s impact on operations (especially in Jamaica) have also affected other carriers; JetBlue cited similar disruptions, though both airlines report bookings have since stabilized.

Analysts have warned that the broader airline sector could see up to a 30% earnings downgrade this quarter. Still, with solid demand heading into early 2026, Delta and its competitors are hopeful the turbulence was temporary.

Lufthansa Joins Sunflower Program to Support Travelers with Invisible Disabilities

Starting Dec. 1, Lufthansa officially joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a global initiative that allows travelers with invisible disabilities to discreetly signal their need for additional support with a recognizable green lanyard featuring a yellow sunflower. With up to 80% of the world’s 1.3 billion people living with an invisible disability, the move represents a significant step toward greater accessibility in aviation.

The program is already live at Munich Airport, with Frankfurt to follow in January 2026. Sunflower lanyards will be available at Lufthansa and airport service counters, though the program doesn’t replace other accessibility services or fast-track privileges—it’s about awareness, patience and empathy.

Lufthansa joins sister airlines Austrian, Eurowings and Swiss in committing to roll out the Sunflower Program groupwide by the end of 2026. The move builds on broader accessibility efforts, including training for crew and the creation of an Accessibility Customer Advisory Committee aimed at enhancing the passenger experience for those with both visible and invisible needs.

Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady Docks in Ocho Rios, Signaling Cruise Comeback

The arrival of Resilient Lady at Jamaica’s newly reopened Ocho Rios Port on Nov. 24 marked a milestone in the island’s cruise recovery following Hurricane Melissa. The adults-only Virgin Voyages vessel was the first in its fleet to call on Jamaica and represents a “vote of confidence” in the country’s capacity to rebound, according to the Port Authority of Jamaica.

The 2,770-passenger ship’s winter season calls are set to continue every other week, with discussions underway to expand to ports in Falmouth and Montego Bay, the latter of which also resumed cruise operations on Nov. 25. Officials say Falmouth’s terminal is now ready, with local readiness expected in the next two weeks.

During a ceremonial welcome, representatives from Jamaica and Virgin Voyages exchanged plaques and emphasized the strong partnership ahead. Tourism leaders say the brand’s commitment and its future visits underscore the island’s resilience and enduring appeal as a Caribbean cruise destination.

Smart Meetings Leadership Experience at Margaritaville Kansas City, Kansas promoted personal and professional development by focusing on a few core areas: courage, communication and creativity. These were triggered the joy of discovery in a brand-new venue and an often-overlooked destination that is growing fast.

Believe in Yourself First

Smart Meetings Editorial Director JT Long (left), Michael V. Ivanov (middle) and Event Director Michele Gardner-Kelley (right)

The author of “The Traveler’s Secret,” Michael V. Ivanov, promoted the concept of speaking with power, dreaming with courage and moving with purpose. You never know who you will inspire.

As an immigrant descended from a Ukrainian mother and Russian father whose parents survived the siege of Leningrad, finding his voice in the midst of 13 siblings required finding role models. His inspiration came in the form of a second book and he has written five books so far in an attempt to play the same role for others in search of encouragement.

“Dream without limits, see beauty in life’s smallest moments,” he said. Be the person that would inspire your younger self.

Embrace Diverse Teams

Former Kansas City Chiefette cheerleader Candy Whirley illustrated the fine art of communicating by getting people to self-identify their default operating system.

“The secret is to treat people the way they want to be treated, not the way you want to be treated,” she said. That means, if they are a no-nonsense lion (in her animal metaphor of personality types), send them bullet points. If they are analytical owls, send a spreadsheet. If they are peacemaker lambs, tell a story.

“People aren’t difficult; they are different,” she concluded.

Release the Creative Child

Competition can bring out the best in teams, whether it is an old-fashioned arcade takeover or a movie theater mystery immersion experience at Atlas9. Meeting planners, hoteliers and destinations worked together to face challenges and solve logical problems in fun new spaces.

By meeting in a destination that is rapidly growing into a sports entertainment center, guests had a front row seat on a dynamic future prime for hosting in the middle of the country.

Gabrielle Andrews

Gabriel Andrews

ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB), announced the promotion of Gabrielle “Gabby” Andrews to vice president of marketing. A decade-long team member, Andrews has helped evolve the District’s brand and elevate its marketing programs, contributing to ACVB’s record $177 million economic impact in FY2024–2025. She has led key campaigns, expanded digital reach, and amplified community visibility. Andrews previously worked at ACVB and earned her TMP certification in 2019.

Andia Ravariere

Nevis Tourism Authority (NTA) has appointed Andia Ravariere as CEO, effective Sept. 1, 2025. With more than a decade of experience in sustainable tourism and Caribbean destination marketing, Ravariere brings strong leadership in recovery, community development and strategic positioning. She previously held key roles in Anguilla and Dominica, driving visitor growth and industry resilience. Ravariere founded Dominica’s Colihaut Community Tourism group and champions authentic, community-focused tourism that will guide Nevis’ next chapter of sustainable growth.

Dina Miller and Johannes Ripper

Dina Miller (left) and Johannes Ripper (right)

Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) has appointed Dina Miller as director of global sales for its Luxury Leisure & Business Travel division and Johannes Ripper as director of global sales, Europe, based in Germany. With 15+ years of hospitality experience, Miller brings strong industry relationships, a record of revenue growth and a people-first leadership style. Based in Chicago, she will support ALHI’s global portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts, strengthening the organization’s presence and elevating service for Member hotels, clients and partners worldwide.

Ripper brings deep market knowledge and a strong commitment to service. He previously held roles with IHG, Kempinski and Marriott International, where he built strategic partnerships and led key initiatives. His appointment supports ALHI’s expanding international focus and strengthens its ability to serve Member hotels and clients across the German and broader European MICE markets.

Tiffany Baydu

Visit Dana Point has appointed Tiffany Baydu as director of sales, where she will lead group sales strategy and elevate the destination’s presence among meeting planners and travel professionals. With 25 years of hospitality experience, Baydu joins from Visit Newport Beach and previously ran her own consulting firm, Harbor Hospitality Sales Solutions. An Orange County native and longtime Dana Point resident, she brings deep community ties, industry expertise and a strong track record of positioning coastal destinations for success.

Eileen Hanson

Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board has appointed Eileen Hanson as chief marketing officer, effective Nov. 18. A seasoned leader with 25+ years of experience, Hanson brings deep global marketing expertise and prior familiarity with LA Tourism through her service on its Marketing Committee. She previously held senior roles with Vantage Group, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield and Hilton, where she built major brands and led award-winning campaigns. Her appointment strengthens L.A.’s position as a premier destination for visitors, meetings and major events.

Shirley Del Carpio

Shirley Del Crapio

Destination DC has promoted Shirley Del Carpio to director of sales. With 20+ years of hospitality and convention sales experience, Del Carpio has excelled since joining the organization in 2021, driving results and mentoring cross-functional teams. Her background includes leadership roles with Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott, where she earned top global performance accolades. In her new role, she will lead convention sales strategy, strengthen industry partnerships and help position Washington, D.C., as a premier global meetings destination.

David McLean

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego has appointed David MacLean as director of sales and marketing as the hotel undergoes a major renovation through winter 2026. A seasoned Hyatt leader with expertise in luxury resort repositioning and global sales, MacLean will oversee all commercial strategy and strengthen key partnerships across the meetings and convention landscape. His 12-year Hyatt career includes award-winning sales leadership roles in Maui and Bali, positioning him to elevate the hotel’s profile as a premier California meetings destination.

Megan Seppman

Meghan Seppman

Wisconsin Center District (ECD) has promoted Megan Seppmann to vice president and chief commercial officer following Baird Center’s award-winning expansion and rising national profile. Since joining WCD in 2018, Seppmann has driven major event wins—including the RNC, DNC and Connect Marketplace—and helped boost Baird Center’s occupancy from under 40% to over 85%. A respected industry thought leader, she will now guide district-wide strategic planning, performance metrics and cross-department alignment as WCD continues its momentum into 2026 and beyond.

John Oney

Destination Dayton has appointed John Oney as president and CEO, effective Dec. 15, succeeding longtime leader Jacquelyn Powell. Oney brings more than 30 years of hospitality experience, most recently as vice president of sports and meetings for Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, where he led group sales strategies that drove significant economic impact. A certified Sports Tourism Strategist and seasoned industry leader, Oney will guide Destination Dayton into its next chapter, strengthening partnerships and elevating the region’s visitor economy.

In the age of AI, the impact of handling business in real life is becoming greater by the day. For insight into exactly how attendees in the field are being affected, Smart Meetings has partnered with Caesars Entertainment to survey the event professional community at IMEX America 2025 and online to quantify the impact of increased ROI for IRL investments.

In this white paper, you will learn:

The top marketing vehicles based on their trust-building abilities
The top marketing vehicles based on their ability to increase revenue
The percentage of event professionals shifting budgets toward in-person events
How event professionals are measuring the effectiveness of events

Download the White Paper!

Leading resorts across the region are unveiling multimillion-dollar enhancements designed to redefine the guest experience

A wave of high-impact renovations is reshaping the hospitality landscape as several premier resorts debut significant upgrades ahead of 2026.

From fully redesigned guestrooms and modernized suites to refreshed meeting and convention venues, elevated dining concepts, and enhanced entertainment spaces, these multimillion-dollar transformations signal a renewed commitment to delivering elevated, experience-driven stays. With phased unveilings continuing into next year, each property is entering a new chapter—one defined by contemporary design, improved functionality and a seamless blend of comfort and sophistication.

Huntington Place

Huntington Place marked the start of construction on the highly anticipated Second Ave. extension with a beam-signing ceremony attended by city leaders and project partners. The first beam signifies the beginning of a vital new connection that will, for the first time, create direct, pedestrian- and vehicle-friendly access from downtown Detroit around Huntington Place to the riverfront.

Stretching from Congress St. to Steve Yzerman Dr., the extension will cross over the M-10 Freeway and is expected to open in summer 2026. It will provide a crucial link to major developments including the new JW Marriott and the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park.

W New York – Union Square

W New York Penthouse Suite — Penthouse Suite

W Hotels unveiled the $100 million transformation of W New York – Union Square. The reimagined 256-room landmark returns as a flagship expression of the brand’s elevated, culture-driven luxury, reclaiming its role as a creative hub in the city where W Hotels was born.

Honoring its Beaux-Arts heritage, the redesigned Living Room showcases restored architectural details alongside bold modern touches inspired by Grand Central Station.

The hotel introduces new guest rooms inspired by seasonal shifts in the park, the brand’s first Living Room Café, a reinvented rooftop bar, upgraded FIT gym and refreshed meeting spaces.

Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk

Hyatt Regency Riverwalk Regency Ballroom — Regency Ballroom

Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk will debut a $5.7 million renovation of its meeting and event spaces before the end of this year. The project features refreshed ballrooms and meeting rooms with modern, warm design inspired by San Antonio’s vibrant culture, plus upgraded restrooms, technology, lighting and furnishings to enhance the event experience..

Appellation Healdsburg

Appellation Healdsburg has officially opened as the flagship hotel of the culinary-driven brand founded by Chef Charlie Palmer and hospitality leader Christopher Hunsberger. The new 108-room resort blends approachable luxury with Sonoma County’s food, wine, and agricultural heritage, debuting two signature Charlie Palmer restaurants—Folia Bar & Kitchen and Andys Beeline Rooftop—alongside the nature-inspired Terroir Spa, two pools and more than 15,000 sq. ft. of indoor-outdoor event space.

The resort features culinary gardens, winding paths and immersive Crafted at Appellation workshops led by local makers and artisans. Agrarian-inspired guest rooms open to balconies and patios with vineyard or pool views, while amenities include locally sourced pantry items, luxury linens and spacious suites.

Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk

Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk has completed a nearly $9 million renovation that transforms its lobby, restaurants and public spaces. The refreshed lobby now features modern check-in desks, dark wood accents and striking crystal chandeliers. The project also debuts new dining experiences, including Moda Fare with elevated Italian cuisine, Tejas Lounge showcasing Texas spirits and a renovated Spoonful Provisions coffee house.

Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announces the opening of Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa, a new all-inclusive beachfront escape on the secluded northeast coast of the Dominican Republic. Joining its adults-only sister property, Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa, the family-friendly resort blends nature, comfort, and connection in a region known for pristine beaches and lush surroundings.

The newly built property features 500 rooms and suites, including swim-out options, along with three pools, a vibrant waterpark and dedicated Explorer’s Club and Core Zone programs for kids and teens. Guests can choose from ten restaurants and seven bars, highlighted by global flavors and locally inspired Dominican cuisine.

A shared Public Square connects Dreams and Secrets, offering dining, shopping and entertainment in a lively village-style setting. With more than 15,000 sq. ft. of event space, serene Caribbean views, and easy access to nearby natural attractions, Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa delivers a scenic, all-inclusive getaway for every generation.

Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Grand Social Bar at Grand del Mar — Grand Social Bar

Fairmont Grand Del Mar unveils its newly enhanced meeting and event spaces, offering a refined blend of natural beauty and luxury on its 400-acre estate beside Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. The resort now features more than 20,000 sq. ft. of indoor and 50,000 sq. ft. of outdoor flexible space, accommodating events of up to 600 guests.

The Canyon Terrace, a 2,550-square-foot garden-framed venue overlooking the golf course and canyon, provides an intimate setting for receptions of up to 150 guests or dinners for 100. For larger gatherings, the reimagined Grand Social outdoor lounge spans 25,000 sq. ft. across three levels, creating a dynamic flow for cocktails, dining and entertainment, with capacity for 450 for receptions or 380 for seated dinners.

Guests also enjoy award-winning dining—including Michelin three-star Addison— a Forbes Five-Star spa, a Tom Fazio–designed golf course, and 234 luxurious guestrooms and suites with sweeping canyon views.

The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami

The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami will reopen on Dec. 8, 2025, following a $100 million transformation that brings a new era of contemporary coastal luxury to its 17-acre beachfront setting. Inspired by the serenity of Key Biscayne and the vibrant rhythm of Miami, the reimagined resort features open-air architecture, floor-to-ceiling ocean view and an elevated palette of natural textures and sun-washed tones.

The refresh spans every corner of the property, including a fully redesigned spa surrounded by lush gardens, six new dining concepts, and enhanced pool, cabana and water-sports experiences. Public spaces such as the lobby now feature sculptural lighting, a glass façade framing the Atlantic and a tranquil fountain terrace that extends toward the shoreline.

The resort’s 421 renovated guest rooms and suites blend modern elegance with coastal calm, while families will enjoy the new Ritz Kids Club. With expanded wellness offerings, curated retail and elevated culinary experiences, the resort’s renewal ushers in a sophisticated new chapter on Key Biscayne.

University of Kansas Convention Center

University of Kansas public space

The University of Kansas has unveiled its new conference center at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, marking a major step in the evolution of the University’s Gateway District. Designed by Multistudio, the facility expands the traditional role of collegiate athletic venues, creating a flexible, high-performance environment where academics, athletics and business intersect.

Following the recently renovated stadium, the conference center transforms the district into a year-round destination for meetings and community events. Located in the north end zone, the space features operable partitions, adaptable lighting and integrated technology to support everything from 300-person banquets to symposia and private receptions. Multistudio’s Brand Experience team infused the center with KU’s identity through graphics, digital displays and flexible furnishings.

An adjacent Field Club opens directly to the turf through operable glass walls, creating a dynamic connection to game-day energy and positioning the Gateway District as a premier regional hub for gatherings.

Green Valley Ranch Resort

Green Valley Ranch executive king guest room — Executive king guest room

Green Valley Ranch Resort has completed the renovation of 199 West Tower rooms, marking a major step in the property’s multi-phase, $200 million transformation. The refreshed rooms are now open for guest stays, with newly renovated West Tower suites debuting in January 2026. Renovations to the remaining East Tower rooms, suites and the South rotunda lobby are underway and will debut alongside upgraded meeting and convention spaces in 2026.

The redesigned resort and executive rooms reflect contemporary luxury with residential warmth, featuring layered textures, Calacatta marble surfaces, custom lighting, 65-inch smart TVs, Nespresso machines and elevated amenities.

In early 2026, the resort will unveil refreshed meeting spaces spanning 69,000 sq. ft., along with upgraded ballrooms, breakout spaces and event venues.

Lessons from two cancer journey stories that required event prof superpowers

We talk a lot about the importance of taking care of our health in the midst of busy planner lives, usually just before we jump on a red eye and spend a week grazing leftover cheese boards and eating out of vending machines. But actively fighting for our care can be a life-or-death decision. Regular checkups are not optional as demonstrated by the two stories that follow.

Thank you to the brave leaders who agreed to be vulnerable about their personal journeys in hopes that at least one other event prof will take the time between site inspections to schedule a checkup rather than ignoring the signs until it is too late.

A Lesson in Self-Care

When Terramar Vice President of Global Engagement Kate Patay found a lump on her chest while at the company’s annual sales meeting in Los Cabos, she thought it was odd but didn’t worry about it. When she returned, she casually mentioned it to her husband and he continued to ask her about it until she made an appointment to have it checked. “I realized I was being selfish by not taking action,” she said. “We take care of other people, whether 50 or 500 and we can’t do that well if we’re not taking care of ourselves, it’s selfish of me to not put myself first.” That is when she made the call.

The initial appointment occurred almost a month later because of travel and a lack of urgency since she had been in for a mammogram that came back clear four months earlier. When she made it onto the paper-lined table, the doctor confirmed her suspicion but had to refer her to a specialist for an appointment that happened a month later. That led to more appointments and scans. “You hear about getting called into the room and the doctor was so kind, but she said very clearly that what she saw was concerning and after all this time, she did not want me to wait.”

“The talk” happened on a Friday afternoon. The biopsy followed on Monday morning and that afternoon Patay was on a rescheduled overnight flight to Chicago bandaged up, unable to lift any of her bags. The news of an invasive ductal carcinoma came just before she walked into a room full of friends and planners. “It was isolating and lonely because I was trying to digest what I was reading and didn’t want to fall down a Google rabbit hole before I heard it from a professional,” she said.

Patay compartmentalized and tucked the news away while she worked. Even after it was confirmed, she didn’t come home right away because there was nothing that could be done and she didn’t want to be sad at home alone. Once she told her husband, he became the self-appointed protector-in-chief. But she decided to keep the knowledge close, family and close friends because she wanted to save everyone else from worrying.

The good news is that Patay was in early stage one and it had not yet spread to her lymph nodes. But an MRI revealed the presence of a second lump so instead of the lumpectomy initially planned, she opted for a double mastectomy. Breast cancer is a disease that runs in Patay’s family. Four relatives have been diagnosed with the same disease at the same age so she understood the implications.

That history made what happened even more painful. Even with the extreme measures, post-operation imaging showed that the mass had been left behind. She had to go in for a second emergency surgery that left her scarred, weak and in pain for months. She was having spasms in her hand and difficulty moving her arm and her doctors didn’t seemed to be listening to her. “It was so devastating. I made guttural sounds I had never heard before,” she said.

Kate in hospital bed Patay was determined to get better. She did her research to find the best surgeon to get her back to functioning and when told she would have to wait until March of 2026 for an appointment, she politely asked if she could call each week checking to see if there had been a cancellation. In the meantime, her husband was traveling with her—including to a Smart Meetings Incentive Experience in the Bahamas—to carry her bags. “I was persistent. I didn’t want to keep carrying this heavy burden,” she said.

Patay’s notes and calls did not go unanswered. On a Thursday in September, she was told there was an appointment the following Wednesday in Las Vegas and her team jumped into action, changing calendars, finding a place for her to sleep and making arrangements to stay with her.

“If I wasn’t a planner, I probably wouldn’t have had those tools available to me and be so well trained in taking what information you’re given at the time and making the best possible decision with the information presented to you,” Patay reflected five months later as she was just getting back to full mobility.

What was most difficult was the change of roles. “I’m the fixer. I’m the helper in my world and I had to ask for help. I had to raise my hand and say, ‘Can you please help me?’ and be vulnerable,” she recalled.

In the next breath she smiled and said, “Everyone came through. I’m so grateful.”

Now that the worst is in the rear view, Patay wanted to tell her story to encourage other meeting professionals to take responsibility for their health. “I have always told people you do have to take care of yourself first. I can’t imagine what this conversation would have been if I had put my care off six months, or even the nine months or so until I would have had another mammogram,” she mused.

Patay urged planners to go with their gut because it’s usually not wrong. “If something doesn’t feel right, poke at that to see why.”

In Praise of Personal Risk Management

Don’t let embarrassment get in the way of a long life. That is the message keynote speaker and Valuegraphics Research Company founder David Allison is trying to get out. From stage, he talks about understanding people based on what matters to them, not on demographics such as age, gender or ethnicity. But last year, he got a personal lesson in how valuable health is at any age.

He noticed that something wasn’t right and went to the doctor for a series of tests that can feel invasive but can also be lifesaving. “It’s embarrassing for guys to talk about their stuff and we don’t want to doctors poking at us. It’s humbling,” he said.

Sure enough, a blood test revealed his prostate-specific antigens (PSAs) were elevated, indicating the possibility of prostate cancer and surgery was quickly prescribed.

That was when he realized that enormity of the global problem and the simplicity of the solution. “Some 400,000 men a year globally still die from prostate cancer and yet it’s 99.9% treatable if you catch it early,” he reported. “We’re losing husbands, fathers, sons, nephews, cousins, just because they didn’t get tested. I want to scream it from the rooftops.”

While Allison acted quickly and radical prostatectomy removed all signs of the disease with no need for chemo or radiation, it changed him in profound ways.

“It was a good lesson in acceptance,” said Allison, who has prided himself on taking the time to stay fit over the years. “A lot of emotional work was required beyond the operation.”

Speaking from his home in Vancouver, Canada, Allison explained that he just turned 60 and realized that having his “plumbing” temporarily not working may have been a preview of what is to come. “Physical structures crumble, like everything on the planet does and moments like this are a reminder of your own inevitable decline,” he said.

But Allison was adamant that men not wait until the fifth or sixth decade to start getting tested. “Cancer doesn’t know how old you are,” he said. An annual blood test could make all the difference.

David reading powerpoint

He noted that while risk assessment and backup plans for events are a planner superpower, they don’t take into consideration that they need to do the same for themselves. “If you go down the week before an event, then that event is going to struggle,” he said.

“We have a responsibility to the people around us, to our businesses, the people we employ, to the clients expecting us to show up to be healthy and well and fit,” he says to himself on those days when going to the gym doesn’t sound fun. “I go for them, because it’s part of the job, it’s not extra.”

Similarly, he framed taking time to relax as part of the work. Go for a walk, fix a healthy meal, get a good night’s sleep, take the vacation after a big event. That will power you to get through all the rest of the work.

Step into any holiday-season event, and you’ll feel it instantly—that electric hum in the air. People are festive. Committees are cheerful. Leaders are exchanging handshakes with donors, members, partners, and employees. From the outside, it all seems effortless, like this beautiful celebration somehow orchestrated itself.

But behind the curtain? Your events team is spinning plates, calming chaos, and solving problems in real time. They’re wrangling vendors, adjusting menus, resetting rooms, handling tech hiccups, and doing it all while making sure no one sees the seams.

As the rest of the organization begins to slow down for year-end, your events team is speeding up, quietly powering the magic that makes it all look easy.

The Season of ‘Extra’ Everything

For most people, November and December bring a sense of slowing down. It’s a time to catch up, reflect, maybe even exhale a little.

But for event professionals? It’s go time.

More galas. More board meetings. More leadership off sites. More last-minute “can-we-just” requests. More receptions, programs, run-throughs, and wardrobe changes, all while smiling through the stress.

And here’s the tough part: when everything goes smoothly, it often goes unnoticed. But when something slips? Suddenly, everyone’s paying attention.

That imbalance wears on even the most seasoned professionals. The pressure to deliver perfection, without so much as a visible wrinkle, builds year after year. And it takes a toll.

The Invisible Weight of ‘If You Don’t Hear About It, It Must’ve Been Fine’

Event teams are the people who instinctively run toward problems. They’re wired to anticipate issues before they arise and smooth out snags before anyone else notices.

But when the work is invisible, so is the credit.

The applause often goes to the speaker, the CEO, the sponsor. Rarely to the planner who made sure the keynote had water, the slide deck was loaded, and the doors opened on time.

That’s where retention quietly starts to slip. Not because the job is hard, they already know that. But because the work can feel like it vanishes the moment the lights go out.

Gratitude Isn’t a Gesture. It’s a Strategy.

There’s a persistent myth in this industry: that appreciation has to be flashy to count. That it needs to come with a budget line or a big speech.

But the truth? The most powerful recognition is simple, specific, and consistent.

A quick note that names what someone did well. A shout-out in a pre-con huddle. A text after a tough event saying, “I saw what you handled, and you nailed it.”

These are the moments that keep people engaged through the grind.

Because when people feel seen, they stay. When they feel invisible, even the best talent eventually walks.

Use the Event to Build the Culture

Here’s something we don’t talk about enough: events aren’t just for attendees. They’re a living, breathing example of how your team operates.

Every event is a case study in collaboration, creativity, and resilience. It’s also a golden opportunity to create connection internally, especially during peak season.

Think small:

A quick recognition circle after the final guest leaves.
A handwritten note on a planner’s desk the next morning.
Sharing positive feedback with the people responsible, not just about them.
A “cheers” at the end of the night to call out a win.

These aren’t extras. They’re fuel. They’re what keep people showing up, year after year, instead of checking job boards over the holidays.

The Part No One Talks About

While other departments are winding down, your team is sprinting.

They’re missing holiday dinners and bedtime stories. They’re showing up early, staying late, and carrying the emotional weight of “this has to be perfect.”

They’re the reason everything looks polished.
The reason your boss gets compliments.
The reason your sponsors re-sign.
The reason people leave with smiles and stories.

And yet, they’re often the least publicly recognized.

This season, that can change.

Not with grand gestures, but with intentional gratitude. With visible appreciation. With real, specific acknowledgment of the people who make your year-end moments possible.

Retention Begins Before January

Retention doesn’t start with New Year’s resolutions. It starts in December.

When teams feel appreciated in their hardest season, they remember it. They carry that into the new year with pride, energy, and loyalty.

But when they feel overlooked, that lingers too. That’s when burnout shows up. That’s when resumes start circulating.

The good news? This industry already knows how to create unforgettable experiences. Now, it’s time to create those moments for your own team.

Make gratitude a practice, not just a seasonal theme.

Make recognition specific, not generic.

Make sure your team hears applause, even when they’re behind the curtain.

Because the real magic of meetings doesn’t come from the stage. It comes from the people who build it.

—

Lisa Ryan, CSP, is a workplace gratitude and retention expert, founder of Grategy, and an in-demand keynote speaker who helps leaders keep their best people through meaningful connection and appreciation. Learn more at lisaryanspeaks.com

A discrepancy exists between venues and attendees

Over the years, venues have touted the progression of their accessibility efforts, with claims they’re making it easier for those with visible and non-visible disabilities to navigate their facilities and feel included. According to new research, many of the recipients of these efforts don’t experience what the venues claim.

Dr. Shani Dhanda sitting on couch — Dr. Shani Dhanda

A study by The Business of Events and International Convention Centre Wales (ICC Wales), titled “Access All Areas: Closing the Accessibility Gap in Events,” uncovered the gap between what meeting venues claim and what attendees feel when it comes to accessibility.

A survey was conducted in June of 1,000 attendees aged 18-65, who participated in conventions, workshops, conferences and corporate events in the previous six months. In July, a survey was conducted including 103 organizations.

The Gap

As might be expected, what venues claim to be the case is somewhat more positive than what attendees actually experience. These are the numbers.

Venues

82% claim to provide step-free access and 91% say they have accessible toilets.
75% say their staff have disability awareness training.
More than 50% have a formal or developing accessibility policy.

Attendees

93% of attendees with disabilities report experiencing barriers at events.
28% have experienced inaccessible layouts; 24% reported inaccessible toilets.
25% encountered untrained staff; 27% encountered overstimulating environments.
52% say accessibility information is clear only sometimes; 17% reported it missing altogether.

In collaboration with accessibility consultant Dr. Shani Dhanda, the study highlighted 12 elements where there exists a discrepancy between venues and attendees, including policies, EAA compliance, physical access, neurodiversity, sensory needs, staff training and technology, highlighting the perspectives of the venues and attendees, uncovering the disconnect and how the two can bridge the divide.

“The findings call for bold, lasting change,” Dr. Dhanda said. “The time for quick fixes and reactive adjustments is over. Accessibility must be woven into every stage of design and delivery. By listening to those with lived experiences, embedding inclusive thinking, and striving for continuous improvement, the U.K. events industry can set a global benchmark for true inclusion.”

The benefits of living a grateful life are proven. UCLA research has shown that focusing on the positive parts of your life for 15 minutes a day enhances mental wellness and can have real physical benefits, including heart health and better sleep.

But how can meeting professionals live gratitude while managing one of the most stressful jobs on the planet? We asked Smart Meetings Experiences speakers to share what they are thankful for and how they demonstrate that daily. Read all the way to the end for one that almost brought us to tears.

Judi Holler

Speaker, Smart Woman Summit 2024, Caesars Palace Las Vegas

What are you thankful for?

The relationships, network and community I’ve built over the years—authentically and organically. They showed up for me big time when it came time to put my second book out into the world.

The reason I share that is because so many of us feel alone—like we’re on an island. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or working remotely in a corporate role, that feeling of isolation can creep in. I think there’s a real loneliness epidemic, but it doesn’t have to be that way. We don’t have to do life or business alone.

The power of my community, my connections and the network I’ve built reminded me that I am not alone—and that I have so many people who love and support me. That realization has put a spotlight on how important it is to nurture my network, care for the community I’ve already built and keep creating spaces of connection moving forward.

So, the essence of my answer is this: so many people feel lonely—myself included—but I was reminded this year that I’m not alone and I don’t have to do it alone. And I’m so deeply grateful for that reminder.
I’ve always loved snail mail and handwritten notes, and I don’t think I’ll ever lose that. But lately, I’ve been leaning more into my very active throat chakra—using my words, language and energy in new ways. I’ve started surprising people with voice memos and Instagram voice notes in their DMs—little verbal love notes or energetic messages to encourage, uplift or answer a question audibly.

It’s brought me so much joy—and it truly surprises and delights people in powerful ways. So now, I’ve added these audio notes to my gratitude practice right alongside my snail mail habit.

Tara Renze

Smart Woman Summit, Grand Hyatt Nashville

I’m thankful for the people who’ve believed in me, my family who grounds me, and the incredible gift of sharing my grandmother’s message, be who you came to be, for a living.
I express gratitude by being present …for my family, my audience and every person I meet along the way. Gratitude, to me, is more than words…it’s how we show up, how we listen and how we love. My grandmother wrote, “Be Who You Came to Be. LOVE will guide you,” and that simple note has been my compass ever since. Every act of kindness, every thank-you, every moment of connection is a way of saying…I see you. You matter. You are enough. The world needs your light.

James Spellos

Speaker, Innovation Experience, Atlantic City

While I’m thankful for all the amazing people and good fortune I’ve had, gratitude for me comes down to two things. One, I’m thankful for my wife, Marj, and our over 40 years together. Without her, it wouldn’t really be a life. Two, I’m thankful for my health, without which none of this really matters.

My gratitude and how I express it doesn’t change month to month or year to year. Be grateful for the simple things that bring joy to your life and those you touch, and always try to do more for others than you do for yourself.

Ashley Brooke James
Speaker, Wellness Experience, La Fonda on the Plaza, Santa Fe, New Mexico

As I look toward 2026, I’m thankful for alignment—for the clarity that’s come from saying yes to purpose and no to anything that pulls me away from peace. I’m grateful for the community that continues to grow around wellness, joy and meaningful connection.

I express gratitude through stillness—pausing to breathe, reflect and acknowledge the blessings that are already present. And through action—showing appreciation by pouring back into others and creating spaces where people feel seen, valued and supported.

Katie McMahon

Speaker, Innovation Experience, Atlantic City

I am grateful for the reinforcing loop of energy that comes from being invited to speak, from the audience members who truly engage on the topic and insights. They radiate an energy back up to the stage.

I end my talks with a heartfelt “Thank You”—appreciation for *their* time and *their* attention. We all know how limited truly vested attention is in today’s world. I weigh it gravely and with deep appreciation.

Rich Braken Rich Bracken

Leadership Experience, El Conquistador Resort, Puerto Rico

What I’m most grateful for this year is the journey—every stage, every story shared and every person who showed up with curiosity and heart. Speaking at major conferences has been a privilege, but the real gratitude comes from the people I met along the way. I’m also incredibly grateful for the trust that has been put in me to deliver at some huge and impactful events.

I share my gratitude through my empathy and sincerity from the stage in thanking those in attendance and thank God I’m a hugger because when audience members come to give me one, I love that connection and mutual appreciation.

Jen Buck

Speaker, Luxury Experience, Conrad Orlando at Evermore

I’m deeply grateful for 2025—a year that underscored the undeniable power of our event community. Connection, collaboration and collective support have been the driving forces behind every moment of growth and impact in my professional life this year.

I express my gratitude by giving back: volunteering my time, contributing to the spaces I care about and building bridges within my community. Service is one of the most meaningful ways I can honor the people and organizations that have shaped me, and it’s my way of creating more belonging, more support and more impact for others.

david t stevens wearing blue shirt David Stevens

Speaker, Wellness Experience, La Fonda on the Plaza, Santa Fe, New Mexico

This year I am taking the time to be grateful for my Social Health. As Professor Bettina Borisch PhD, MD said: “Your social health is the single largest contributor to your physical health.” My work, my business, my life would be so empty without the incredible people I have been fortunate enough to meet and keep in my life to collaborate, support and trust. As I am an only child, I do appreciate my alone time, but thanks to the relationships this industry has gifted me, I never feel lonely.

I am showing my gratitude for those special people in my life through a number of different ways but the ways that speak to them the most. It might be a gift that made me think of them, a book, a handwritten note or just a phone call with the expressed intent of ensuring they know how important they are in my life.

Lamar Engel

Speaker, Epicurean Experience, Silverado, Napa, California

I’m grateful for the rare moments when wonder finds its way into a world oversaturated with information, when a guest shifts from spectator to collaborator and feels the experience belongs to them. Those are the quiet sparks that remind me why hospitality matters.

“For me personally…at the end of every event, when the final conversations fade, the glasses rest and the room releases its last breath and I find I am often the last one in the space, I’m filled with gratitude for what truly lasts: guests walking away with the sense of belonging.

Candy Whirley

Leadership Experience, Margaritaville Hotel, Kansas City, Kansas

I am grateful for my people! My family, friends and clients who I adore and truly get me! I’m SUPER grateful for my health as I get OLDER🤪.

My love languages are gift giving and words of affirmation. I like to make my people know how much I adore them and a little gift just for them never hurts…from my 2-year-old grandson to my 85-year-old yoga student❤️.

Shelley Brown

Speaker and MC, Smart Woman Summit 2025, JW Marriott Tampa Water Street

When I think about gratitude, it brings tears to my eyes. I have endless reasons to be grateful. As I sit here with my newly adopted pug, I find myself reflecting on this past year, a year marked by two profound losses: my mom and my dog and yet, I’m grateful for grief because grief, at its core, is proof of how deeply we love. It’s also a teacher, bringing clarity, humility and growth I never asked for but somehow needed.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to be trusted to speak at events and know that I’ve made people feel something and inspired them to do something different.

I journal every day, always with pages full of gratitude. And I’m a big believer in expressing appreciation with my words whenever I can. You never know when, or if, you’ll have the chance again.