You Are Cordially Invited to Join Us for ‘The Heart of Hospitality’

People are at the heart of travel and hospitality.

And, as humans, we travel to connect with new cultures, people and places.

From tour outfitters and hoteliers to shop owners and chefs, humans are at the heart of genuine hospitality and essential in the delivery of the travel experience.

After what has been one of the most challenging years on record, we will gather safely to recognize Asheville and Buncombe County’s heart, hospitality, fortitude and resilience, charting a path for our future together.

REGISTER NOW >>

Inspiration from Keynote Speaker, Kevin Brown: Expand Your Vision, Grow Your Results

Kevin Brown, Keynote Speaker at 2021 Annual Meeting

Kevin Brown‘s unconventional path to business and personal success has taught him that winning in business and in life requires anything but conventional thinking.

As a motivational speaker and author, Kevin is on a mission to help people and organizations embrace a simple philosophy that separates world-class organizations and high-performance people from everybody else.

Kevin is passionate about helping people expand their vision, develop their potential and grow their results. Join us as he entertains, inspires and challenges us to show up every day and make a positive difference at work and in life!

Inspiration from Local Tourism Partners: Unconventional Paths to Success

The Heart of Hospitality can be found right here in our community. Hear the inspiring personal stories of tourism partners whose often unconventional career paths led them to success.

Plus, we’ll present the William A.V. Cecil Tourism Leadership Award to someone who has made a significant contribution to the tourism sector in Asheville and Buncombe County, providing exceptional leadership in making the community a special place to live and visit.

Come for the Inspiration, Stay for the Networking & Hospitality

Please join us after the program for entertainment, local foods and craft beverages, and connecting with fellow members of the tourism community. Our venue partners at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville have strict protocols in place to keep everyone safe. Please see below for more information.

Register Today for this Can’t-Miss Event!

  • Date:  Wednesday, September 15
  • Location:  Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, Haywood Street, Downtown Asheville
  • Time:  3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
    • 2:30 p.m.: Doors open for safety protocol check-in [SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS]
    • 3: 00 – 4:30 p.m.: Program
    • 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.: Hospitality & Networking
  • REGISTER HERE >>

This event is designed for travel & hospitality businesses and those interested in learning more about our vibrant tourism community.

Safety Protocols for this In-Person Annual Meeting

Our venue partner at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium has protocols in place to keep everyone safe.  Please review details of these safety protocols as you make your plans to join us. Remember to bring:

  • Mask
  • Proof of vaccination OR a negative COVID test result within 72 hours of the event
  • Government-issued ID

Thank you for your kind compliance with these safety protocols. We’ve missed seeing all of you in person and look forward to celebrating safely together!