Each time I go, I have more fun than the last time. That’s because it’s an open and friendly gathering of some of the greatest minds in Indie hospitality.

Independent Lodging Congress, began in 2013 and I was there with Andrew Benioff the founder. It started small, unique, exclusive but inclusive, a room for the creatives, an event that was different than contentless investment conferences – no offense ALIS and NYU. While I’ve been remiss for a few years in being at ILC less, I can’t wait to go back and hang with the creatives again!

If you’re looking to share great ideas with a community of hospitality trailblazers and entrepreneurs, you need look no further than ILC.

It’s been three incredible days of serious learning, as well as fun and frolicking with like-minded hospitality industry pros, technology thought leaders and others who are passionate about independent properties and the unique experiences they bring to guests around the globe.

Thrilled to be a part of Independent Lodging Congress at the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs this month! 150+ hospitality leaders gathered in the desert for immersive learning and genuine connections, defying the typical conference experience. Hospitality is about people, and this event truly embodies that. Reconnecting with old friends and forging new bonds was a highlight. Already looking forward to the next one!

The experience has been nothing short of remarkable, marked by meaningful connections and the exploration of innovative trends within the independent lodging sector. The passion and knowledge exchanged during the event have truly been inspiring!

ILC events are really about building relationships and having meaningful conversations. And at the end of the day, that’s exactly what hospitality is about as well.

As an ILC newbie, I was unsure what to expect. The welcoming embrace of the entire community went beyond my wildest dreams. This is a group of people who cares about sharing ideas, aspirations and visions that will drive excellence in hospitality for the future.

Looking back through my photos from the event, I realized that while conferences are about learning, for me, they’re primarily about connecting with people — and I did just that. It was great meeting some of you for the first time, and of course, it was wonderful reconnecting with so many others.

At Tractorbeam, we’ve always been drawn to ILC events because their philosophy and mission resonate so closely with our own. The ILC ethos of “doing serious work without taking yourself too seriously” is something we wholeheartedly embrace. Where else can you go from discussing how to enhance guest experiences to taking shots of warm tequila—no salt, no lime—in the same breath? It’s a place where you can forge partnerships while snuggling goats and meet your new best friend during late-night karaoke at the after afterparty. That’s ILC.

It’s great to see both familiar and new faces, all looking to make changes in the hospitality industry. The panels were extremely informative and offered some great insight on how a change in mindset, mentorship, and honest hospitality practices can transform neighborhoods.

My first Independent Lodging Congress did NOT disappoint. I left inspired and energized by this industry and the people in it. It was a masterclass in hospitality as a vehicle for positive human connection.