8:00 am - 9:30 am EST

Networking

Artisanal Welcome Breakfast

Kick off the day with an artisanal breakfast featuring a selection of fine foods crafted by local chefs. This informal gathering is an ideal opportunity for attendees to network and prepare for a day filled with insightful discussions and professional learning.

9:30 am - 10:00 am EST

Welcome

Welcome

with Ariela Kiradjian, Partner & COO of BLLA and Co-Founder of StayBoutique

A brief welcome session to introduce the day’s agenda, highlight key sessions, and acknowledge sponsors and notable attendees. This opening remark will set the tone for a day of fruitful discussions and networking.

10:00 am - 10:35 am EST

Keynote

The Landscape of Boutique Hotel Investment

with Alan Fuerstman, Founder, Chairman & CEO at Montage International, Michael Fuerstman, Co-Founder of Pendry Hotels & Resorts, and Ariela Kiradjian, Partner & COO of BLLA and Co-Founder of StayBoutique

Sponsored by Nestle Premium Waters

Alan and Michael Fuerstman, the visionary minds behind Montage International, will unveil the latest insights and strategies shaping boutique hotel investments in an upcoming keynote. Drawing from their extensive experience, they'll explore industry trends, challenges, and innovative approaches, inspiring attendees to navigate the dynamic landscape with confidence.

10:35 am - 11:00 am EST

Technology

How Travel Technology Impacts Hotel Investment

with Chris Hemmeter, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Thayer Ventures

Technology innovators and hotel operators will discuss the impact of emerging travel technologies on hotel investment. Topics will include automation, guest experience enhancement, operational efficiency, and how these factors influence investment attractiveness.

11:00 am - 11:20 am EST

Legal Issues

How to Structure a Deal & Legal Considerations

with Samantha Ahuja, Shareholder at Greenberg Traurig and Guy Maisnik, Partner & Vice Chair of Global Hospitality Group at JMBM

Sponsored by The Olympia Companies

Legal experts will outline key considerations in the structuring of hotel investment deals. This session will cover contract negotiations, compliance issues, risk management, and effective strategies for structuring deals that protect interests and maximize returns.

11:20 am - 11:40 am EST

Trends

Transaction Patterns + Challenges and Solutions in Today’s Market

with Channing Henry, Managing Director, Head of US at PKF hotelexperts and Vanessa Mange, SVP Investments at Blue Flag Capital

Sponsored by Cumming Group

Industry leaders will discuss current transaction patterns and the associated challenges in today’s volatile market. This session aims to provide practical solutions and strategic insights to navigate these challenges effectively.

11:40 am - 12:10 pm EST

Trends

Emerging Markets and Opportunities

with Ben Weinberg, Co-Founder & Co-CEO at Trailborn, Jason Liebman, Co-Founder & Chief Investment Officer at Auric Road, and Alex Levin, Founding Partner of Liquid Crystal

Sponsored by Liquid Crystal

Explore new and emerging markets that present lucrative opportunities for boutique hotel investments. This panel will provide insights into market dynamics, cultural factors, and economic conditions that make these markets attractive to investors.

12:10 pm - 1:10 pm EST

Pitch

Boutique Hotel Investment Pitch Session

A dynamic session where hotel developers will pitch their projects to a panel of potential investors. This live pitch session will offer a platform for new projects to gain visibility and secure funding.

1:10 pm - 3:00 pm EST

Networking

Lunch

3:00 pm - 3:40 pm EST

Trends

Development in the New Age of Hospitality

with Andrew Miele, Chief Development Officer at Proper Hospitality, Ernest Lee, Chief Commercial Officer at citizenM, Alex Lee-Bull, First Vice President at CBRE Hotels, and Nile Tuzun, Founder & Chief Creative Storyteller at Studio Nilebrand

Sponsored by Greenberg Traurig

This panel will look at the latest developments in the hospitality industry, focusing on sustainable practices, innovative design concepts, and the integration of new technologies in hotel development and operation.

3:40 pm - 4:25 pm EST

Finance

Financial Models for Hotel Investment: Equity vs Debt

with Adam Maisel, Principal at Ramsfield Hospitality Finance, Brad Bloom, Managing Director at Citi, Ben Leahy, Partner at Cedar Capital, Matt Livian, Managing Director at Prospect Ridge, and Tara Berman, Managing Partner at TaraPaige Group

Sponsored by Nestle Premium Waters

A detailed comparison of equity and debt financing in hotel investment. Financial experts will explore the advantages and disadvantages of each, using case studies to illustrate key points and help investors choose the right approach for their projects.

4:25 pm - 5:05 pm EST

Growth

Scaling Boutique Properties: Growth Strategies That Work

with Benjamin Rafter, President & CEO at Springboard Hospitality, Lily Hu, Executive Vice President, Business Strategy at Crescent Hotels & Resorts, John Schultzel, Chief Growth Officer at The Olympia Companies, and Ariela Kiradjian, Partner & COO of BLLA and Co-Founder of StayBoutique

Sponsored by The Olympia Companies

This session will focus on scalable growth strategies for boutique properties. It will include discussions on market analysis, brand positioning, and financial strategies that have proven successful in expanding boutique hotel portfolios.

5:05 pm - 5:35 pm EST

Workshop

Workshop: Key Valuation and Capital Market Trends

with Marcus R. Lee, Executive Vice President, Development at HVS Asset Management & Advisory, Joe LeVine, Managing Partner at Mercer Street Partners, and Basak Tan, Founder & CEO at KReMM

Sponsored by Greenberg Traurig

An expert-led workshop examining the latest trends in property valuation and capital markets affecting hotel investment. Participants will gain an understanding of how these factors can influence investment decisions and asset valuations.

5:35 pm - 7:15 pm EST

Networking

Ending Party

Celebrate the connections made and knowledge gained at this closing event featuring live music, exquisite catering, and a relaxed atmosphere for networking and unwinding after a busy day.