BLLA Set to Host the 2024 Boutique Hotel Owners Conference

The Boutique Lifestyle Lodging Association (BLLA) is thrilled to announce the 2024 Boutique Hotel Owners Conference, which will be held September 16-17 at the picturesque Westlake Village Inn in Westlake Village, California. Nestled in the serene Malibu mountains, this year's conference will explore the theme "The Mycelium Network," symbolizing the interconnectedness of the boutique hospitality industry.

The theme of the 2024 Boutique Hotel Owners Conference, "The Mycelium Network," draws inspiration from nature's intricate and interconnected networks. Just as mycelium serves as a vital communication and support system beneath the forest floor, linking plants and trees to share resources and foster growth, this theme symbolizes the deep connections within the boutique hotel industry. It highlights the importance of collaboration, shared knowledge, and mutual support among independent hoteliers. At this conference, attendees will explore how these connections can drive innovation, resilience, and sustainability in the boutique hospitality sector, creating a thriving ecosystem where boutique hotels can flourish together.

The 2024 Boutique Hotel Owners Conference is an exclusive event that brings together boutique hotel owners, operators, developers, and industry leaders from around the world. Against the backdrop of the stunning California landscape, attendees will engage in deep discussions, interactive panels, and collaborative sessions designed to foster innovation, share insights, and strengthen the boutique hotel community.

Watch the recap of last year’s event here.

This year’s speakers include Adam Weisblatt, Partner of Last Word Hosptitality; Alex Kirkwood, Founder & CEO of Kirkwood Collection; Alexandra Walterspiel, President & COO of Sensei; Allison Weinberg-Fahey, Shareholder of Greenberg Traurig; Ashleigh Narcelles, VP of Sales & Revenue Strategy of Oliver Hospitality; Cara Federici, CEO of The Madison Melle Agency; Clayton James, Manager Partner of Équité; Cory Schisler, Partner of The Madrona; Deborah O'Donnell, Director of Strategic Sales of DIRECTV HOSPITALITY; Homi Vazifdar, Founder of Canyon Equity; Jon Sakshaug, CEO of Hotel Emma; Ken Cruse, Founder & CEO, Soul Community Planet; Kimberly Walker, Creative Director of Nomada Hotel Group; Kurt Bjorkman, COO, The Ranch at Laguna Beach; Mo Akintunde, Head of Revenue of PeopleVine; Moody Nashawaty, Founder of The Yara Hotel; Peter Wright, Division Manager of Nestle Premium Waters; Raan Parton, Owner of Apolis; Rod Clough, President of HVS Americas; Rydhima Brar, Founder of R/terior Studio; Tara Medina, Co-Founder of MUSA and Vikram Sood, Managing Director of The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe.

This year’s sponsors include:

DIRECTV HOSPITALITY / Enseo / Greenberg Traurig / Nestle Premium Waters / PeopleVine / Way / Hopper / Mews / Capital One Travel / Eviivo / Jonas Chorum / Soucie Horner

This year’s supporting partners include:

Boutique Hotelier / Hotel Dive / Independent Hotel Show / BjornQorn / Ghia / Hyperion Essentials / Kin Euphorics / Loco Love / MOSS / MUD WTR/ NomiBrew / OpenHouse / The Aroma Haus / VegoBears

Conference Highlights:

• "Connect with Strangers" Series by BLLA: Participate in themed hubs where attendees engage in intimate discussions, brainstorming, and collaborative problem-solving on industry challenges. This innovative series is designed to help participants build meaningful connections, share valuable insights, and drive industry-wide innovation.
• Interactive Panels: Each panel at the conference is crafted to be a dynamic exchange of ideas. Every attendee has wisdom to share, and these panels encourage active participation, ensuring a rich and diverse dialogue. Topics will range from operational excellence to technology integration in boutique hotels.
• Scenic Venue: The Westlake Village Inn offers a breathtaking setting for the conference. Attendees can relax by fire pits, enjoy the comfort of cabanas, and be inspired by the natural beauty of the Malibu mountains. The resort’s lush surroundings and abundant natural lighting provide the perfect environment for creativity and collaboration.

The 2024 Boutique Hotel Owners Conference by BLLA is more than just an event; it’s a movement that celebrates the independent spirit of boutique hotels. Join us in Westlake Village to be part of the conversation shaping the future of boutique hospitality.

Registration Details: For more information and to register for the conference, visit BLLA’s website.