EVENT UPDATE: Due to the current developments around COVID-19 and Buncombe County’s recommendation to avoid nonessential large public gatherings, the Hospitality Outlook is postponed. We look forward to rescheduling the event in the future. If you have already purchased a ticket, you will receive a full refund.

The Explore Asheville team remains committed to supporting industry partners and is monitoring this developing situation closely. Please refer to AshevilleCVB.com for updates and information from trusted sources. Additionally, a flyer has been developed that incorporates CDC graphics and reminds visitors to stay safe during their stay. Download this resource here to post at your property and share with your guests.

Please join us on Wednesday, March 18, for this signature event designed for hospitality industry leadership.

Chris Cavanaugh of Magellan Strategy Group will present an economic outlook, and Explore Asheville President & CEO Stephanie Brown will report on destination and lodging performance with a look ahead for the coming year.

We’ll also address the growing concerns about COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and the impacts the industry could see in the coming weeks and months.Reserve your ticket today! Capacity is limited.

• Wednesday, March 18
• Holiday Inn Asheville – Biltmore West, 435 Smokey Park Highway, Asheville
• Check-In: 11:00 a.m. | Program: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Tickets: $25 (includes program and lunch)

PROGRAM

Welcome
Himanshu Karvir, BCTDA Vice Chair
Virtelle Hospitality

Economic Outlook
Chris Cavanaugh, President
Magellan Strategy Group

Since founding Magellan Strategy Group in Asheville over 15 years ago, Cavanaugh has provided strategic planning and marketing consulting services to a diverse range of clients.  Prior to founding Magellan, Cavanaugh was vice president of marketing for The Biltmore Company and had a career in consumer-packaged goods marketing prior to joining Biltmore.  He is a former chair of the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority and the state’s travel and tourism board.  Since 2013, Cavanaugh has served on the Federal Reserve Bank’s Charlotte Branch Industry Roundtable.

Destination Performance & Outlook on Lodging
Stephanie Brown, President & CEO
Explore Asheville

Stephanie Brown leads the Explore Asheville team to attract visitors to Buncombe County for the community benefit of expanding the customer base for local businesses, providing jobs, and generating tax revenue. Prior to joining the Asheville team, she served as President of the Alexandria (VA) Convention & Visitors Association, and Vice President of Public Affairs for Mount Vernon. She has an extensive background in marketing and economic research overseeing those functions for the Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism and The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. She has been the national chair of the Destinations International Foundation and a director for the US Travel Association.

Marla Tambellini, Vice President of Marketing/Deputy Director
Explore Asheville

Marla Tambellini oversees strategic marketing, social and media relations efforts for Explore Asheville. During her 25-year tenure, she has spearheaded a variety of initiatives and award-winning campaigns. Previously, she helped launch an in-house public relations department at Biltmore. As an agency account supervisor, she also managed PR for the Michigan Department of Treasury, State Farm and other accounts. She has held board positions with the Public Relations Society of America, Society of American Travel Writers and the Southeast Tourism Society.