SMU International Conference Recap

Table of Contents

• The Power of Face-to-Face Connections

• What Makes SMU Different?

• Educational Insights and Industry Trends

• The Value for Event Planners

• The Venue 

• Final Thoughts

Recently, I attended the SMU International conference in New York City, organized by Northstar Meetings Group. This is an annual conference, but it was my first time as an attendee.

I recapped the experience with fellow planner colleague, Corrine Thomas, CMP who is also a business growth strategist. We sat down to discuss the key takeaways from SMU International, what made this event unique, and why both planners and suppliers should consider attending.

You can listen to our recap here:

The Power of Face-to-Face Connections

One of the biggest takeaways from SMU was the opportunity to build and strengthen relationships with suppliers, hoteliers, and destination management companies (DMCs) from around the world. As planners, we often research venues and destinations online, but there’s a difference between reading about a place and having a direct connection with someone who can provide insider knowledge and support.

SMU provided a platform to meet new contacts while reconnecting with past suppliers. Having these trusted relationships is crucial, especially when working on international programs where local expertise makes all the difference.

“The relationships we build at these conferences are everything,” Corrine said. “We get access to people and places that we might never find on our own. When a client comes to us needing a venue in a specific country, we now have direct contacts we can reach out to, which is so much better than just searching online.”

What Makes SMU Different?

One of the biggest benefits of attending was the opportunity to develop and strengthen relationships with global suppliers, hoteliers, and destination management companies. For event planners, these connections are invaluable, especially when planning international events where having local expertise can make all the difference.

The conference included:

• One-on-one speed networking sessions with suppliers and DMCs

• Hosted luncheons and receptions featuring insights from global destinations

• Keynote sessions on industry trends, travel impacts, and best practices

One highlight was learning about Switzerland’s train meeting spaces, where groups can hold events while in transit—a concept I never knew existed.

Educational Insights and Industry Trends

Another highlight of the conference was the opportunity to gain insights from industry leaders on travel trends, economic shifts, and how different destinations are positioning themselves for international meetings and incentives. One of the most impactful discussions revolved around misconceptions about accessibility, such as the assumption that destinations like New Zealand require an extended stay to be viable for incentive programs. A representative from New Zealand broke down how a well-structured itinerary could make the destination a competitive choice without requiring a two-week commitment.

The conversations at SMU International were highly intentional, focusing on real business opportunities rather than just casual networking. Both Corrine and I agreed that the ability to meet with suppliers in a structured format made a significant difference in how much value we were able to take away from the event.

The Value for Event Planners

For planners, attending SMU provides access and knowledge that can’t be gained through Google searches. When securing venues, the ability to negotiate better deals, find hidden gem locations, and establish direct supplier relationships gives planners a competitive edge.

Many suppliers attending SMU were deeply passionate about their destinations, offering insights that go beyond brochures. Having these conversations in person builds confidence when recommending destinations to clients.

“The suppliers who show up to these events and invest in these relationships,” I said, “are the ones we turn to when it’s time to book.”

The Venue 

The conference was held at the Marriott Marquis in New York City, providing a central and vibrant backdrop for the event. One standout experience was discovering the rotating lounge on the 48th floor, which offers stunning views of the city. It was a reminder that beyond the formal networking sessions, there are always opportunities to continue conversations in more relaxed settings, whether at a hotel bar or a designated meeting space.

Marriott did an exceptional job in curating meals and experiences that highlighted various international destinations. From Colombian empanadas to a Korean barbecue, the culinary selections tied into the conference’s global theme, making the experience even more immersive.

Reflecting on SMU International, both Corrine and I agreed that it was a valuable experience for both planners and suppliers. For planners, it provides direct access to key contacts, allowing for better venue negotiations and a deeper understanding of international destinations. For suppliers, it is an opportunity to connect with decision-makers who are actively looking for venues and services, making it an excellent platform to build long-term relationships.

The energy at SMU International was contagious, with suppliers genuinely excited to showcase their destinations and planners eager to discover new possibilities. The event successfully balanced education, networking, and business-building opportunities, making it a must-attend for those looking to elevate their global event strategies.

If you are considering attending in the future, it’s an investment worth making. The insights, connections, and opportunities gained from SMU International can significantly impact the way you approach international event planning.

Final Thoughts

SMU delivered an exceptional experience, blending education, networking, and business opportunities in a well-organized, high-energy environment. Whether you’re a planner looking to expand your global network or a supplier wanting to forge strong relationships, this conference is a worthwhile investment.

Special thanks to the organizers of SMU International, Northstar Meetings Group and to Matt Klinger of MAD Pix Pro for the professional photography.

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