General

Talking Points: New Coastal Convention Center Expands Meeting Options in Miami

As chief operating officer of Fontainebleau Development, Goldfarb oversees the hospitality group and capital projects team, including all aspects of Fontainebleau Miami Beach operations. The iconic resort hosts 300 to 400 events annually, from industry-leading conventions with thousands of attendees to weddings, social events, and much more. Here, Goldfarb shares how the new Coastal Convention Center is expanding meeting and event options at Fontainebleau Miami Beach and in Greater Miami.

The Hotel Zamora reopens as luxury property after renovation

A $7.5 million renovation has elevated The Hotel Zamora in St. Pete Beach, Fla., to a four-star luxury hotel. The renovation was completed by developer Sherman Associates; it was the company’s first completed project in Florida.

Explore St. Louis appoints new president and CEO

The Board of Commissioners of Explore St. Louis has selected Brad Dean as its new president and CEO. Dean is expected to start in this new role on Feb. 17, leading the organization’s efforts to attract visitors from around the world, including conventions, concerts, and events, to leverage America’s Center and The Dome.

Georgia World Congress Center Authority appoints new COO

Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) has appointed Stacey Church as its new chief operating officer (COO), effective Feb. 10, 2025. She is the first female COO in the organization’s 50-year history.

Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk begins lobby and restaurant renovation

Luxury hotel Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk is starting on a nearly $9 million renovation project to transform the hotel’s lobby and public spaces. This includes an elevated coffee service at Spoonful Provisions, the installation of Tejas Lounge, and a new dining concept called Moda Fare.

Driven to Impress

Choosing drivable destinations can be a game-changing strategy for boosting attendance and engagement when planning meetings and events. These easily accessible locations go beyond convenience and cost efficiency, offering opportunities for unique and vibrant experiences to immerse attendees in local culture and charm. With a well-developed infrastructure to support events, drivable destinations balance scenic beauty, diverse activities, and essential amenities. Best of all, they turn the entire experience into an adventure—combining ease of access with memorable attractions, making the journey and destination a win for any gathering.

Shana Davison – ASPIRE Event Management

Shana Davison, CMP

ASPIRE Event Management

Founder & Managing Director

Ankeny, Iowa

shana@aspireeventmanagement.com

Types of meetings and events: Conferences, incentive trips, grand openings, customer-appreciation celebrations

Average number of attendees: 
800 for conferences

Describe your current position.

As the founder and managing director of ASPIRE Event Management, 
I wear a …

The Boca Raton to debut transformed Beach Club

Boca Raton, Fla.—The Boca Raton announced the $120 million investment in the redesign of its Beach Club earlier this year, and reservations are now open. In addition to new restaurants, a fitness facility, and a cocktail lounge and café, the oceanside event spaces and all guest rooms and suites have been completely revamped. The grand reveal is set for January 2, 2025.

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