We’re back from the glittering city of Las Vegas, wrapping up a phenomenal week at IMEX America 2024. From bustling appointments to memorable networking events, this year’s show has left us beaming with excitement and gratitude. With over 400 appointments and 25 incredible exhibitors in our Hosts Global booth, it’s safe to say that IMEX 2024 was a tremendous success!
Our Booth: A Hub of Global Connections
This year, the Hosts Global booth was abuzz with activity as we connected with meeting and event professionals from around the world. Our Hosts Global Members and Strategic Partners showcased the depth and breadth of our destinations, highlighting why we’re THE trusted partners of planners globally for crafting exceptional events.
Representatives from the following Hosts Global Members took appointments and built relationships throughout the show floor:
- Experience Houston
- Moloney & Kelly DMC, Ireland
- COTC Events, South Florida
- Conceptours, Greece
- Sena DMC & PCO, Iceland
- World Events Consulting, Switzerland
- Hosts Seattle
- Hosts Southern California
- Hosts Las Vegas
- REALM Singapore, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand
- Eventive Marketing, Canada
- Lafayette DMC, France & Monaco
- Barefoot Holidays, Saint Lucia
- Eurotravel Solutions, Austria, Croatia, Germany, and Slovenia
- Hosts Texas, Dallas, San Antonio, & Austin
- Hosts New Orleans
- Juice Studios, Atlanta & Savannah
- DePalm Aruba
- Hosts Chicago
- Hosts Louisville
- Hosts Nashville
- Hosts Baltimore
- Hosts Washington DC
Additionally, our Strategic Partners, Trees4Events and Vario Productions, were in the booth, underscoring our commitment to sustainability and innovative event technology.
Kicking Off with a Bang: Annual Hosts Global Member Meeting
We started the week off on a high note by gathering our Hosts family for our Annual Member Meeting at the Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas. Members from around the globe came together to share valuable insights, best practices, and the latest trends shaping our industry. It was a powerful time of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and of course, a few surprises along the way!
The most thrilling surprise of the morning? We officially announced the location for the 10th Anniversary of Hosts Global Forum—Athens, Greece! Excitement and anticipation were palpable as we revealed that our Members and clients will be convening in the cradle of civilization for our biggest event of 2025.
“Every year, our Member Meeting feels like a family reunion—this time it was even more exciting, as we shared the best news of all by announcing that our next Forum is headed to Athens! I can’t wait to see the Hosts family gather in one of the most historic and iconic cities in the world!” – Jaclyn Bernstein, President of Empire Force Events, the Queen of NYC!
Networking Nights: Making Meaningful Connections
The week was packed with opportunities for building relationships and celebrating the power of face-to-face connections. Many of our Members kicked off IMEX evening engagements by heading to the Wet Paint Group’s Happy Hour and later making their way to the high-energy SITE Night at Top Golf. It was the perfect way to kick off the show, with laughter, camaraderie, and a little friendly competition on the course.
The Busy Booth: A Buzzing Hub of Activity
Our Hosts Global booth was a true magnet for meeting planners and industry professionals. The space was constantly buzzing with back-to-back appointments, exciting drop-ins, and spontaneous connections.
“Our booth was a bustling hub of activity! With over 400 scheduled appointments and countless walk-ups, the energy was electric. There’s nothing better than seeing the genuine excitement of our Members and clients as they discuss new opportunities and future programs.” – Robert Lee, VP of Global Sales and Alliance Engagement.
A Legendary FUSE Event with ALHI
Tuesday night was one for the books as we teamed up with our strategic partner, ALHI, to co-host our annual FUSE event at Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar. Clients and friends were greeted by an array of activations, including the Las Vegas Drum Bots, a futuristic Robot Selfie Station, and a 4-foot LED mini-sphere! Positioned at the center of the party, it symbolized the incredible partnership between Hosts Global and ALHI, while giving a nod to Las Vegas’s latest iconic landmark. The energy was electric as everyone mingled and created new connections.
“Partnering with ALHI on FUSE is always a highlight of IMEX week! It’s where we get to celebrate with our clients and partners in a way that’s quintessentially Las Vegas—bold, fun, and unforgettable. It’s not just an event; it’s an experience that showcases the power of partnerships!” – Kurt Paben, CEO of Hosts Global.
Exclusive Client Reception: Taking It to the Top
On Wednesday, we treated select clients to an invitation-only reception at the top of the Palms at Vetri Cucina. With panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline as our backdrop, guests were treated to a series of unexpected delights—a walking caricature artist sketched whimsical portraits, a sleight-of-hand magician amazed with jaw-dropping tricks (we’re still scratching our heads on how Anju’s ring ended up on his glasses), and the chef himself welcomed us into his kitchen for a private culinary demo. The atmosphere was elevated, yet intimate, and as the sun set over Las Vegas, our guests couldn’t help but feel the magic of the moment.
“Our private reception at Vetri Cucina was the perfect blend of elegance and excitement. From the breathtaking views to the personalized entertainment, every detail was designed to delight our guests. It was the kind of experience that truly set our clients apart and made them feel like VIPs.” – Tina Gaccetta, SVP of Global Sales & Marketing.
Evening Entertainment: Lights, Music, and Magic
But IMEX week isn’t just about business—it’s about creating memories! This year, some of our Members and clients took full advantage of Las Vegas’s world-class entertainment scene, enjoying performances by Donny Osmond, Chris Angel, Keith Urban, and Maroon 5. Each show added a touch of Las Vegas glamour and excitement to an already unforgettable week!
Front Row to History: A Farewell to the Iconic Tropicana
IMEX America 2024 coincided with a monumental moment in Las Vegas history—the demolition of the iconic Tropicana Hotel. Many of our Hosts Global Members and Hosted Buyers had a front-row seat to witness the end of an era as this legendary property, which originally opened its doors in 1957, took its final bow.
“Watching the Tropicana’s final curtain call was bittersweet, but it’s a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of Las Vegas. The demolition marks the end of an iconic era and the start of an exciting new future for the city. It’s moments like this that make Las Vegas such a captivating destination for events—its ability to constantly reinvent itself while honoring its storied past.” – John Graner, Chief Experiential Officer of Experience Houston, A Hosts Global Member.
Rendezvous on the Strip: A Night to Remember
To top it all off, some of the Hosts Members joined the late-night crowd at MPI’s famous Rendezvous Party on Wednesday at Drai’s Nightclub. With the iconic Las Vegas skyline as the backdrop, the night was filled with dancing, networking, and pure, unbridled fun. It was the perfect way to wrap up a whirlwind week of business, bonding, and brilliant ideas.
The Power of Presence: Reflecting on IMEX America 2024
IMEX America isn’t just a trade show—it’s a celebration of our industry’s resilience, creativity, and capacity to connect people in meaningful ways. This year, we had the privilege of demonstrating how Hosts Global and our Global Alliance Members can elevate events through local expertise, innovative activations, and an unwavering commitment to legendary service.
With over 400 appointments and countless memorable moments shared, IMEX America 2024 was truly a testament to the power of partnership and collaboration. As we reflect on this week’s achievements, we’re already looking ahead to even greater possibilities for 2025 and beyond. Until next time, Las Vegas—thank you for an unforgettable week!
Frankfurt…we’re coming for you!
