Event Recap - 2023 State of the Industry (SOTI)
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by Diana Pointer
On January 26, 2023, MPISCC held its annual State of the Industry (SOTI) meeting at the Sheraton Universal Hotel and Universal Studios Hollywood. It was a day of education, networking, great food, and fun.
Sheraton Universal Hotel
MPISCC members and guests enjoyed the beautiful weather and networked at the Sheraton Universal Hotel's poolside terrace. Light bites were served while a delightful quartet set the tone for the beginning of a great evening filled with industry updates and fun!
Next, attendees went up to the breathtaking rooftop Starview Room where the Sheraton Universal Hotel's Alfonso Torres, General Manager, and Ernesto Alonzo, Senior Group Sales Manager, welcomed attendees.
Natalie Fulton, MPISCC Director, Education – Professional Education, introduced the featured SOTI speakers:
- Darren Green, Sr. Vice President Sales, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board
- Lisa Messina, Chief Sales Officer, Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority
- Michael Krouse CHME, CASE, President and CEO, Greater Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau
These industry leaders provided attendees with insights and answered questions on the state of the event planning industry, its impact amidst a post-pandemic economy, growth and geographic markets, and what's trending and upcoming in their respective cities.
Universal Studios Hollywood
After our SOTI meeting, attendees embarked on the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood Tour! We took the tour tram from the hotel to the tour, which gave attendees a unique view of the property. Experiencing this historic studio lot made this SOTI event extra fun!
Next, we were off to Sound Stage 29 via a red carpet photo op, where MPISCC President, Amy Zelinsky, greeted the attendees. A Universal Studios Hollywood Meetings and Events representative also welcomed the attendees and showed us a brief presentation of their venue, meeting and event offerings. Finally, the dinner buffet displayed an incredible variety of options to satisfy everyone – including succulent Prime Rib, Egg Yolk Ravioli, Truffle Cacio E Pepe, Zucchini Aglio E Olio, focaccia, and desserts.
The DJ provided great music and led trivia games on the big screen. In addition, attendees enjoyed a fun photo booth and posing for photos with iconic Hollywood movie characters who roamed about the venue. And the raffle prizes are always a highlight at our events!
Thanks to Jennifer Minzey, MPISCC Director, Education – Event Logistics, Natalie Fulton, MPISCC Director of Education, Professional Education, MPISCC board members and committee, sponsors, speakers, and vendors who helped to make this educational event a smashing success. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!
