We have two great opportunities to experience some great attractions in Louisville this afternoon. Sign up during the Registration process.  Space is limited for the Bourbon Experience so sign up early! 

Option 1:  Head out to visit The Ali Center & the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.  We have a combined discounted ticket that will allow you to visit each venue at your own pace, and both are within walking distance of the hotel.  $37 registration fee.

The Ali Center presents and mobilizes Muhammad Ali’s legacy of creating change, pursuing justice, and inspiring greatness. Through the Museum’s exhibits, films, and immersive environments, you’ll follow Ali’s journey from his Louisville childhood through the three world heavyweight titles and humanitarian efforts that made him a global icon.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory celebrates the extraordinary role the legendary baseball bats have played in the sport’s past, present, and future. Journey through the factory and see the woodchips fly as you learn about the history of an American icon. The museum is open 9-5; factory tours are guided, and the museum galleries are all self-guided.

Option 2:  Evan Williams Bourbon Experience – 2:00pm and 4:00pm Tour Options, space is limited to 15 people at each time slot. $20 registration fee.

The Tour and Tasting in Louisville, KY takes you back in time to meet Kentucky’s first licensed distiller, Evan Williams. Along the way, you will visit recreations of the Louisville wharf in the late 18th Century, as well as Whiskey Row along Main Street from the 1890’s through the present. You’ll learn how Heaven Hill’s modern Bernheim Distillery operates and discover how it is different from distilling in Evan’s era. Then, you will see a combination of the two—a state-of-the-art, modern, operating distillery utilizing the same type of pot stills as the early Bourbon-making days. This tour will also include 4 product tastings.

Paw-sitive Vibes Only! Mingle with like-minded professionals, forge new connections, and rekindle ESPA friendships, all while surrounded by wagging tails and puppy kisses.

Sponsored by :

We will have a variety of restaurant recommendations as well as table reservations so you can opt to dine with fellow ESPA’ers.  More details on this are yet to come.

Are you a night owl looking for somewhere to hangout and have fun with your fellow ESPA friends? Welcome to ESPAfter hours!  This space was designed for those looking to keep the energy of an exciting conference going after the daily activities have concluded.  This year’s Friday After Hours theme will be dazzling! 

During this highly interactive and turbo charged  session, our dynamic session leader Lauren Ansley will lead all of us through a fun time, encouraging us to  meet and connect with a variety of new people in a fun,  entertaining format.

Bonus Table Discussion! Are you looking to take the next steps in your career? Looking to understand the major certifications of ESPC and CMP?  This gathering is for you. During today’s lunch hour, we will have a few tables reserved for those wanting to have these discussions. Hearing from industry professionals with the certification explain the processes, how to prepare and tips and tricks for the exams is just the start. Meet with like-minded individuals to help start your preparation and increase your network as you embark on these well worth while certifications to level up your knowledge.

• The Sprint to Sustainable Events: Turning Ideas into Actions
  This panel discussion will help attendees understand their roles in planning sustainable events from the perspectives of CVBs, hoteliers, and planners. All three pillars of sustainability will be covered—environmental, socio-economic, and socio-cultural—while exploring practical strategies and actionable steps to turn sustainability goals into impactful event solutions.
• Crossing the Finish Line with Best Practices
  Ever wonder how your peers ensure accountability and transparency in their day-to-day business and event operational policies and procedures? These panelists will share how they use Standard Operating Practices (SOPs) to establish and manage best practices.    
• Merging Innovation with Personal Connection
  How would it feel to lighten your overloaded to-do list, even just a little? Learn how to transform time-consuming, manual processes into streamlined, real-time digital solutions. This session will showcase how cutting-edge tools and platforms can elevate, rather than replace, the human touch that defines exceptional service. Through expert insights and real-world examples from a diverse panel of speakers, discover how destinations can successfully harness technology to offer clients and attendees user-friendly and cost-effective ways to enhance their experience. Embrace the future of service with innovative solutions that seamlessly blend technology with personal connection.
• Connecting Sports Commissions and CVBs
  Have you ever struggled to work collaboratively with your Sports Commission to enhance the experience of your sports events? Through this panel discussion we will explore ways to strengthen the relationship between CVB’s and Sports Commissions. We will also explore how using that relationship will also assist with working with the venues in your city to create a more cohesive experience.

7 Secrets of Public Speaking, Lauren Ansley

Have you been tasked with presenting before your venue leadership team or your CVB advisory board? Does public speaking before VIP client groups or at welcome receptions make you uncomfortable? Lauren Ansley will help de-mystify the art of public speaking, breaking it down into a manageable structure with her 4 P’s framework: Pick, Prepare, Practice, Perform. In this info-packed session, you’ll learn how to connect with your audience, craft a ‘Set List’ to stay on track without memorizing your message, and discover Lauren’s favorite tip on how to wrap up like a pro.

The Power of Millennial and Gen Z Employees

Whether you’re a seasoned event services leader, a mid-career professional, or a new entrant to the hospitality workforce, this forum promises invaluable takeaways on enhancing teamwork, boosting productivity, and fostering innovation through effective intergenerational collaboration. Gain actionable strategies while discussing with fellow ESPA attendees how to build inclusive communication practices, navigate generational differences on your team and with clients, and create a supportive work culture that empowers every team member to excel.

The ABCs of Servicing — Always Be Communicating

Hear from a panel of executive leaders from hotels, CVBs & Sports Venues, and how they use different forms of communication for client site visits. This session will dive deeper into all the workings “behind the scenes” that we all do to ensure successful site visits for our guests.

Building Bridges: Effective Ways of Working with Your Neighbors
When hosting sporting, political and large conventions that expand to your neighboring DMOs, how does the communication flow? We will hear from industry leaders who have hosted citywide events and how they partnered with key stakeholders such as your airport and transportation companies to execute memorable experiences for attendees and their local communities.

Our all-star list of panelists are below. The session will be moderated by Traci DePuy, Chief Marketing Officer, PCMA

• Amanda Benzine (she/her/hers), Associate Director, Women’s Basketball, NCAA 
• Dean Jones, CMP, MTA, Director of Conferences and Event, Religious Conference Management Association
• Anthony Maggiore, Senior Director, Conference and Meetings, American Academy of Physician Associates
• Amanda Stratton (She, Her, Hers), Meeting & Event Planner, Enterprise Procurement & Supplier Management, Humana

Join us for an engaging Meeting Planner Roundtable where industry leaders come together to share insights and best practices for working with local DMOs, Hotels/Venues and Convention Centers on successful events. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from a panel of leading Meeting Planners on emerging trends, overcoming common challenges and valuable takeaways that empower everyone to win together.

Join us for an evening filled with Kentucky flare at the Kentucky Derby Museum on the grounds of Churchill Downs, home of the “greatest two minutes in sports,” the Kentucky Derby. Celebrate this year’s ESPA Conference with a memorable reception at one of Louisville’s most recognizable venues! Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Derby while enjoying cocktails (including the famous Mint Julep), heavy hors d’oeuvres, music, Bourbon…wait, did we already mention cocktails? And plenty of lively conversation amidst the stunning backdrop of this iconic venue. Don’t forget your fascinator or fedora!

Dress Code: Derby Attire

What is Derby attire? Embrace the spirit of the Derby by donning your finest attire. Ladies are encouraged to wear spring dresses and fabulous hats, while gentlemen can showcase dapper suits or blazers with stylish ties (bow ties are highly encouraged). Let your creativity shine—think vibrant colors, florals, and timeless elegance! There’s nothing too big for Derby!

Transportation: Transportation will be provided from the Louisville Marriott Downtown throughout the evening starting at 5:45pm. Buses will load and unload at the Louisville Marriott 2nd Street Entrance.

This evening, we will gather as we return from our evening headliner event.  Relax and wind down with your ESPA friends as we wrap up a great day together. 

(7:30-8:00 Breakfast / 8:00-9:00 Presentation) Often, people associate privilege with one race or gender or with affluence. However, privilege is reflected in many situations, many lifestyles, and among many demographics. Privilege isn’t necessarily a reflection of you as much as it is the perception and assumption to others about who you are and what you’re capable of. The purpose of a privilege walk is to explore your own privilege, provide an opportunity to better understand your colleagues, and most importantly, to learn how you can use your privilege for good.  

 Topic:  Crisis Management and Contingency Planning: Resilience in the Events Industry

In the ever-changing world of event services, there will always be unexpected challenges. These incidents can range from natural disasters, technical failures or sudden client changes. In this Roundtable, you will discuss tips to equip event services professionals with tools and strategies needed to efficiently manage crisis and ensure a well-rounded contingency plan is in place.

  Topic:  Elevating Guest Experiences: Next Level Customer Service

Collaborate with other event service professionals on strategies for taking guest interactions to the next level with championship customer service.  Discover some best practices for creating personalized experiences and exceeding expectations, to include communication, empathy and attention to detail.

Topic: Hosting Major Sporting Events: A Case Study of City Strategies and Impact

Hear from event service colleagues on strategic planning, execution and impact of cities and surrounding communities that have hosted large-scale sporting events. These discussions will cover best practices, challenges faced, and lessons learned.

Topic: Navigating Partner and Housing Challenges, While Improving Attendee Experience

Explore best practices for overcoming shared challenges associated with partner agreements, housing allocation and attendee accommodations. Discuss strategies with other event service professionals for balancing partner expectations and operational realities. Learn actionable insights to streamline the housing process and elevate the attendee experience.

 Topic: Empower Planners to Deliver Quality Events Within Budget

Discuss and discover how to work with planners to develop a comprehensive budget framework that will assist in financial accountability while maintaining the quality and experience impact of their event. Review strategies to create memorable events within budget constraints without sacrificing quality.

Topic: Measuring Success: Post Event Evaluation and Customer Success Metrics

Discuss strategies on how to understand the impact of events by measuring ROI and key customer success metrics. Learn from discussion on how to analyze event outcomes, gather valuable feedback, along with actionable insights that can enhance future events.

Topic: Safe Travels: Essential Security Measures for Attendees and Staff

Hear about potential travel risks and vulnerabilities, along with implementing safety best practices for various travel scenarios. Join this discussion session to equip yourself with the necessary tools to ensure a safe travel experience for all.

• Radical Empathy, Presented by Susie SilverThis engaging and interactive workshop centered around the transformative power of radical empathy. Designed to foster deeper connections and cultivate a sense of belonging, this session will delve into various types of empathy, explore the concept of radical empathy, and provide practical strategies for integrating empathy into everyday workplace interactions. From understanding its nuances to implementing actionable tips, participants will gain valuable insights into the profound impact of leading with empathy. This in-person or virtual workshop offers a safe and supportive environment for learning and dialogue, where attendee participation is not only welcomed but encouraged.
• Using Soft Skills in a Hard World, Presented by James Brown
  We are joined by our closing Keynote speaker, James Brown, who will teach us how utilizing soft skills such as human connectivity enhances culture, improves productivity, and nurtures resiliency in the workplace and beyond.
  
• Navigating the Evolving Landscape of the Hotel and Convention Center Business Industry colleagues will provide essential insights and strategies to guide you in accurately forecasting venue revenues. Panelists will also discuss the challenges of short-term bookings to include best practices for effectively managing timelines while balancing long-term planning.
• Housing Services: Where Are We Today?Session sponsored by Meetingmax
  We will look back at DMO housing services through national DMO survey data and explore the current state of all things housing. Panelists will examine how housing management concepts have evolved and will aim to debunk myths and hesitations by clients and DMOs. A review of ways to help you stand out in what can be a crowded housing market will also be a part of this important conversation.
• It’s a Win, Win: The Powerful Role of Community PartnershipsJoin us for an engaging panel discussion that celebrates the spirit of collaboration and the power of community-driven event hosting. Team members from Louisville attractions and restaurants will answer questions and share their perspective on the importance of CVBs, hotels, venues, restaurants and businesses joining forces to showcase the very best of a destination to clients.

During this session, attendees will break up into groups and discuss hot topics relevant to their individual segment. A short list of hot topics will be available to talk to your peers about challenges and solutions. 

• DMO
• Convention Centers  
• Hotels & Venues 
• Leaders (Associate Director, Director, VP and higher)

Successful individuals or organizations understand customer service is important. GREAT organizations are deliberate about their customer service framework creating a customer-centric culture. In this presentation, you will learn how to set yourself and organization apart by making customer-centric service an intentional aspect of how you operate on a daily basis, ultimately helping you better reach your business goals. Take the stride to move from “a customer” to “MY customer.”

• Angel’s Envy Bourbon Experience – This Workshop will feature a Tour & and we can’t leave without a Taste! We will hear from a panel who will share tips on how to operate as a multi-functional facility and the special considerations that must be taken into account for private events in a fully operational distillery. (Attendees will take a bus to the facility)
• Norton Healthcare Sports and Learning Center – Attendees will visit this very unique facility that doubles as a world-class indoor track venue and multi-use event center. The program will also showcase a partnership between the Louisville Urban League and several local entities while being managed by ASM Global.  As described by the Center, Norton SLC is an essential element in the changing landscape of Louisville’s West End. This development will make a lasting community, economic, educational, and health, and well-being impact for generations to come. (Attendees will take a bus to the facility)
• Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) Located at the center of Louisville’s bustling downtown, the Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) is showing off its $207 million renovation and expansion, making it a top tier convention center and a must-see business hub. The Convention Center holds the distinction of being a LEED Silver certified facility and implemented cutting-edge procedures to improve recycling efforts, reduce the energy used for events, and sustainably sourced materials for construction of the new facility. (Attendees will walk to the Center from the hotel.)