Industry
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INSIDE: See why ITA Group's most seasoned experts say Big Sky, Montana, is a trending hotspot.
We’re in the midst of a truly record-breaking year—in numbers and in the meaningful impact we’re making for the people we serve. One client captured it best:
“What stands out most in working with ITA Group is their exceptional organization and commitment to our company’s best interests. From start to finish, they ensure every detail is thoughtfully planned, making the entire process seamless and efficient. They go above and beyond to create great outcomes, delivering results that align with our goals and exceed expectations. Additionally, they bring a fun and engaging energy to the program. It’s a perfect balance of professionalism and excitement, which is a big part of why working with them is a positive experience.”
None of this would be possible without the dedication of our incredible team and trusted supplier partners, whose passion and commitment continue to elevate every experience.
Monica Fasse
Around the industry
What’s happening
InVOYAGE
x Rio de Janeiro
February is more colorful in Rio de Janeiro. Hosted at the Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, steps away from the world-famous Copacabana beach, this InVOYAGE event offered one-on-one connections with over 40 luxury properties and destinations, with a strong focus on Latin America.
Full of cultural richness, captivating music and warm hospitality, Rio de Janeiro is the stage for events that transcend borders and inspire global joy. Highlights included:
> The Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana is Brazil's gateway to a bohemian setting that has inspired countless poets and artists. Imbued with all the glamor of the city in the 1950s, it still shines today as an epicenter of culture and gastronomy.
> An evening of Carnival with Roots and Rhythm at Casa Camolese restaurant paired with sunset at Corcovado mountain, with an up-close visit to the Christ the Redeemer statue.
> An excursion to Sugarloaf Mountain brought breathtaking views of Rio’s coastline.
Jessica Snyder Manager, Event Purchasing
Techy takeaways at SXSW 2025
Artificial Intelligence dominated discussions at this year’s SXSW. I focused my time in Austin on how we can apply AI advancements to event design, planning, operations and attendee interactions. Fully embracing the technology, I used the audio transcription feature in my phone’s notes app and left with summarized takeaways from each fascinating session:
> Tech “agents” are the next great equalizer. Billionaires and kids are using the same smartphone. As AI advances, this makes personalized services once only available to the wealthy accessible to everyone. AI “agents” are already working as assistants for human employees, taking on the monotonous administrative tasks that people dread. You.com founder Richard Socher advocated for allowing tech to do the things the human brain is wasted on.
> Posthuman-Centered Design takes an ecosystem-oriented approach. Technologist Malcolm Ché proposes that in this AI-enabled era, we need to de-center the needs of humans to consider a more interconnected approach. Designing solutions from this perspective explores how we align nature, technology and people as a unified, meaningful system.
Ashley Bohnenkamp Senior Manager, Event Solutions
DESTINATION DISCOVERY
Rugged and refined Big Sky, Montana
Mountains, meadow and canyons surround this breathtaking Montana town. With incredible ski and snowboarding terrain and summer downhill mountain biking, Big Sky is known for world-class outdoor activities. But adventure sports are only part of the story. Performing arts events, boutique shopping districts and wellness retreats complement the community’s laid-back atmosphere.
Why Big Sky?
> Playground of outdoor pursuits. Big Sky, Montana, is the west gate to Yellowstone National Park. Follow along the Gallatin River to access world-class fishing, white water rafting and trails. The historic Rainbow Ranch Barn can accommodate 200 people for off-site events.
> Home to cowboys, artists and outdoor lovers. Experience the spirit of the West with rodeos held throughout the region, June-September. Event enhancements include whiskey tasting, birds of prey demonstrations, llama picnics, a gunpowder artist live painting, Western boot fitting and dinner in a barn-turnedart gallery
Best time to host
> Peak season: Year-round destination (skiing in winter; fly-fishing and wildlife viewing in the summer)
> Known for: Yellowstone National Park access in under an hour
> Travel time: 1 hour from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
Where to stay
Wonder in the wilderness. Set on 240 scenic acres, One&Only Moonlight Basin (opening November 2025) is bordered by the protected lands of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Dotted across dense pine groves, the resort’s architectural lodges frame soaring panoramas. Gaze on iconic landmarks while enjoying amenities that include a wellness spa and six restaurants and bars.
> Renowned architect Olson Kundig based the property’s overall design aesthetic to highlight the stunning views. Moonlight Basin is comprised of six resort buildings, including 73 guest rooms and suites, 19 guest cabins, 62 private homes, and eight private estate lots.
An alpine oasis. Framed by Montana’s Spanish Peaks Mountain range and located 45 minutes from Yellowstone National Park, Montage Big Sky includes 139 guestrooms, suites and residences, five signature restaurants, lounges and bars, an expansive spa and over 35,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space.
> Guests enjoy ski-in/ski-out access to Big Sky Resort, Blue Ribbon fly-fishing in the Gallatin and Madison Rivers and rounds at Spanish Peaks Mountain Club and Big Sky Golf Course.
Jodi Swailes
Event Destination
Strategist,
Incentive
An ITA Group employee-owner for nearly three decades, experiences are what Jodi's known for. When she’s not working hard to create unforgettable events in all parts of the world, she's either roughing it in the wild outdoors or seeking out live music. She excels at destination and partner sourcing, contract negotiations, program design and budget development.
One&Only Moonlight Basin
Montage Big Sky
EXTRAORDINARY PROPERTIES
Property highlights
Accommodations: 791 guestrooms
Airport transfer: 30 minutes from St. George Regional Airport
Meeting spaces: 45,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meetings and event spaces
Insider tip
Practice your swing, anytime. The Yard features an illuminated 36-hole putting green for day or night play, and you'll find TrackMan golf simulators at the 20th Hole Club Lounge.
Black Desert Resort Ivins, Utah
Spanning 600 acres among the ancient lava fields and vibrant vermillion cliffs of Greater Zion, Utah, Black Desert Resort offers a distinctive setting for any event. The newly built luxury resort sits at the intersection of the Colorado Plateau, Mojave Desert and Great Basin, providing a breathtaking backdrop for year-round outdoor recreation, world-class spa facilities and diverse dining options.
> Picturesque golfing. Selected to host both a PGA Tour FedEx Cup event and an LPGA tournament upon its debut, Black Desert Resort has rapidly ascended the ranks to one of the most esteemed golf destinations in the nation. The stunning 19-hole, 7,500-yard black rock golf course is Tom Weiskopf’s 73rd and final masterpiece. Find forgiving fairways, well-manicured greens and strategically placed landing areas designed for all skill levels.
> Equipped for events. The resort features versatile indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces, a diverse catering selection, plus a range of restaurants and dining experiences, including private dining and banquet facilities. Comprehensive in-house audio and visual services include high-speed WiFi, indoor and outdoor lighting, projections, enhanced audio, and advanced technical support.
> Premiere park access. In addition to pedestrian access to over 200 acres of preserved land with six miles of hiking trails, Black Desert Resort’s Base Camp staff can organize elevated excursions to regional parks, including Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park. From hiking and biking to horseback riding and canyoneering, excitement awaits.
The Langham, London London’s West End (England)
Recognized as Europe’s first "Grand Hotel," The Langham, London revolutionized the luxury hotel experience when it first opened its doors in 1865. Today, the five-star hotel remains one of the world’s most iconic destinations. It has inspired luminaries like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, a frequent hotel guest, who used the hotel as the setting for several Sherlock Holmes stories. Princess Diana was also among the famous and influential who’ve frequented the hotel.
> Central location. Located on Regent Street between Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park and Regents Park, The Langham, London is an easy walk to local landmarks and the city’s high-end shopping districts.
> Culinary masterclass. Treat your taste buds to cleverly crafted cocktails and gourmet European cuisine at The Langham’s awardwinning restaurants and bars. Artesian cocktail lounge is a four-time winner of The World's 50 Best Bars award. Don't miss Afternoon Tea, served in the birthplace of this beloved British tradition. Sauce, the on-site cookery school, gives hands-on lessons curated by a talented team of chefs, including Michel Roux Jr, chef of a two-star Michelin restaurant.
> Intimate and impressive spaces. Choose from a range of charming event venues, from plush meeting rooms to an outdoor garden and a historic Grand Ballroom. The Langham Club is its own world of luxury. Here, a host of premium privileges make guests feel like royalty. Enjoy private check-ins, an elegant space to host meetings and tantalizing refreshments.
Property highlights
Accommodations:
380 guestrooms
Airport transfer: 1 hour from London Heathrow Airport
Meeting spaces: 23 venues and more than 25,000 square feet
Click to see property
the
Insider tip
Michael Bublé, Lady Gaga and Hans Zimmer have all played
Sterling Suite’s white piano.
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Standout supplier partners
Georgia Van
Presenting Atlanta
“Presenting Atlanta is one of my favorite DMC suppliers because they consistently go above and beyond to support ITA Group and our clients. Their relationship within the city is unparalleled. When I mention we’re working with Presenting Atlanta to our hotel partners, there is always a sense that we’ve got the best partner in the city working on our behalf. Recently, Georgia volunteered to support a client’s local branch for site inspections. She provided immediate feedback and helped support our client in selecting the right hotel for their event. This is the definition of being an extension of our ITA Group team. I am so fortunate to have such a long-standing relationship with Georgia and the Presenting Atlanta team.”
—CHELSEA WING, LEAD BUYER, EVENT PURCHASING
PRA Las Vegas
“No one creates success alone. Our client’s recent Store Managers Meeting was a huge success in part because of great partners like PRA Las Vegas. Our team greatly appreciated their flexibility, positive attitude and ability to respond to frequent changes. It was inspiring to see how well they came together with our team to bring about an outstanding event. We are already looking forward to collaborating with this winning group again next year.”
—DAVID ABERS, SENIOR EVENTS ACCOUNT DIRECTOR
“ We worked with Laurie Warden for a recent customer trip to the Dominican Republic. This was a large-scale event with two waves of 1,000 attendees each and nearly 100 off-site activities. Laurie was incredibly detailed, organized and responsive. Her calm and helpful demeanor throughout the entire event was much appreciated. The trip involved an unusually high volume of last-minute activity additions, cancellations and changes, both leading up to and during the event— and Laurie handled every request with a positive attitude and didn’t miss a beat. She was an absolute joy to work with, and I believe anyone would be thrilled to partner with her in the future.”
—KIM BLYTHE, SENIOR EVENT MANAGER & SARAH ZACH, SPONSORSHIP MANAGER
Laurie Warden
Connect DMC
TRAVEL NOTES
Q:
What should event planners understand about Rocco Forte?
Meetings and
events
Insider perspective
Known for exquisite hotels in exceptional European locations, Rocco Forte’s Showcase took ITA Group Lead Buyer Nancy Boddicker to Italy and Scotland. Her itinerary featured boutique properties in Rome and The Balmoral, a legendary hotel that looks up to Edinburgh Castle. When weather hampered travel, a surprise stop at a Rocco Forte property in London, Brown's Hotel, highlighted the hospitality of this family-owned, fourth-generation hotelier.
I would liken Rocco Forte’s level of experience to Four Seasons. When you're looking at a five-star incentive level property, the quality of the hotel, the room product, the excellent food and their level of service was phenomenal everywhere we went. There’s also a stylish ambience rooted in a sense of place.
Q: A: A:
Tell us about your pre-extension in Rome.
We were hosted at the Rocco Forte Hotel De Ville. Located in the heart of Rome, it’s an easy walk to the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain but on a quiet, upscale street. This beautiful boutique hotel features elegantly appointed rooms blending contemporary style with classical accents. A site tour of their sister property, Hotel De Russie, just down the street, confirmed they would be perfect for a dual booking. It features a Mediterranean, tiered Secret Garden. Our day in the Roman countryside included a cooking class and wine tasting. We made our own pasta lunch and enjoyed learning about the wines with pairings at a family-owned winery 45 minutes outside the city.
Q: A:
Hurricane-force winds made getting to Scotland difficult. How did the hosts respond?
They couldn't have been better. They did everything to make the trip as special as it was. When we couldn’t fly into Edinburgh, we stayed over in London and took a train and land transfer.
Q: A:
Once you got to Edinburgh, what did you experience?
The Showcase took place at The Balmoral, which Rocco Forte first acquired and reinvented in 1998. The hotel and elegant guest rooms exude regional charm. We participated in a traditional Scottish celebration honoring poet Robert Burns. Men were provided kilts and women wore tartan sashes for a formal evening that included culinary highlights (Haggis was the starter!), an emcee sharing rich Scottish history and a live band. We also learned about Edinburgh Castle, one of the oldest fortified places in Europe. It’s served as a royal residence, military garrison, prison and fortress. We ended the tour with an award-winning tea service. Our guided city tour featured a special focus on J.K. Rowling’s writings and the world of Harry Potter.
Nancy Boddicker Lead Buyer, Event Purchasing
Nancy brings a comprehensive travel industry background (she’s worked in hotel sales, on-site operations, event management and marketing) to her current role. She embraces the challenge of finding the perfect fit for clients and participants and the excitement of an industry where every day is different.
Rocco Forte Hotels operates 14 distinct hotels across Europe, each reflecting the unique character of its location. Known for exceptional design, personalized service and a commitment to quality, each Rocco Forte hotel offers guests a blend of elegance and comfort for leisure and business.
Property at a glance
Rocco Forte Hotels
Trending keynote
Bryan Neale: Football official and sales coach
Midwest Speakers Bureau
ITA Group's preferred partner Midwest Speakers Bureau helps meeting planners select the best keynote speakers and entertainers. See who they say is trending right now.
Elite performance is the name of the game for Bryan Neale, an NFL Official, entrepreneur and sales leader. His talks encourage people to take the first step toward accomplishing their goals, walking audiences through the strategies needed to achieve at the highest level.
With deep professional sales experience, Bryan gives sales kickoffs a game-changing start. His Blind Zebra Sales Operating System™ is based on what Bryan knows works in today’s sales environment. His talks cover how your team can avoid being ghosted, handle objections like a champ, expand the top of their sales funnel and increase deal velocity.
Accolades and audiences
> Officiated 11 NFL playoff games in 9 seasons and Super Bowl LVI
> Founded Blind Zebra Consulting, a world-renowned sales coaching organization
> Founded and cohosts the Advanced Selling Podcast, the world’s longest-running sales training podcast with over 15 million downloaded episodes
> Created and shares his First Domino theory and life-changing Think-Do-Say framework™
Keynote topics
> The First Domino™: Conquering the Fear of Getting Started
> S#*t That Works™: The Greatest SKO on Earth
Quick facts
> Preferred format: 60-minute keynote
> Budget range:
$35,000–$50,000
Why we recommend
Bryan truly engages the crowd. In a keynote last year, he taught someone to play piano on stage in front of 600 people. He’s also happy to share about his NFL experiences and stay late for photo ops.
Trending content
Resources, tips and tricks
What’s in your travel bag?
Twelve South AirFly Pro
Listen to in-flight entertainment wirelessly. Even better, this gadget lets you and your travel companion enjoy the same audio on a charge that lasts the whole long haul (including transfers).
Allbirds Wool Runners
Washable, wear-all-day sneakers keep travelers comfy when dashing between terminals or on cobblestone streets. They’re cozy, naturally thermoregulating, and have a small carbon footprint.
MZ Wallace Zip Round Cosmetic Bag
Store your skincare stylishly while being environmentally friendly. This quilted case is made from post-consumer REC Oxford material. Choose from black, emerald and dusty rose.
Kaitlyn appreciates the unique opportunity to bring high-value and trending products, as well as gifts from smaller businesses and local communities, to clients. Seeing the excitement of discovering something new motivates her to open the door to new products and brands. She’s also known for finding the best food and cocktails in town and is always eager to share recommendations.
Bio insights showcase: Events Buyer
Kaitlyn Miller Product Buyer Event Gifting
Trending content
Resources, tips and tricks (cont.)
From around the industry
2025 European attendee preferences for incentive travel
Listen
“Dare to Interrupt” by Meetings Today
Host Courtney Stanley gives phenomenal women in the meetings industry a platform to use their voice, uninterrupted.
How to make the most of your corporate event planning budget
How to practice event sustainability for incentive travel
Sustainability showcase
On topic
As someone who’s been in the events industry for years, Dare to Interrupt hits differently. It’s real, it’s relatable and it reminds you why you fell in love with this work in the first place. The stories, the lessons, the honesty. It’s like having a coffee chat with the smartest women in events. Don’t miss it.
—THERESA LINK, LEAD BUYER
Raffles Boston received the Green Globe Certification, becoming the only property in the U.S. to achieve this global recognition. This is especially relevant as more corporations place increased emphasis on environmental responsibility when evaluating future host destinations—even our most prestigious award winners are aligning their travel choices with sustainable values.
itagroup.com, and head
itagroup.com/insights