Michigan Event Industry Day: The Art of Event Planning

We look forward to welcoming you to the Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection for the 2025 Michigan Event Industry Day: The Art of Event Planning. 

 

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SPEAKERS 

 

Lilah Jones - Inclusivity in Meetings

In this inspiring keynote, Lilah Jones—a Google leader with 20+ years in tech and business—uses the metaphor of a "courage carry-on" to explore how we navigate challenges while championing inclusion. Through powerful stories, she unpacks the essential "cubes" of courage: vulnerability, resilience, confidence, and support. Lilah redefines courage as a conscious choice and highlights how inclusion fosters belonging and empowers authenticity. Attendees will leave equipped with practical steps to build their own "courage carry-on," inspiring them to take bold, intentional actions that create inclusive environments in their organizations, communities, and personal lives.

Mike Ferreira, MHA, DES - Third Party Meeting Planner Answering All of Your Questions

Join Mike Ferreira, Owner, Founder, and CEO of Meetings Made Easy & Detroit Motor City DMC, for an insightful session focused on strategic hotel negotiations, site selection, and building strong, effective partnerships in the events industry. With over 21 years of experience in hotel operations, sales, and conference services, Mike offers a wealth of knowledge to the MPI Michigan Chapter.

In this session, Mike will delve into the key strategies for navigating the hotel site selection process, negotiating favorable contracts, and fostering successful collaborations between meeting planners and hotel partners. He will explore best practices for securing the ideal venue, maximizing value, and ensuring a seamless experience for all parties involved. Topics will include strategic negotiation tactics, understanding hotel offerings, managing expectations, and ensuring smooth coordination between suppliers and planners for events of all sizes.

 

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6:00 - 8:30 PM: Pre-Event Reception **Add-on**
Guests are welcome, and encouraged, but they must purchase a ticket.

APRIL 10TH

10:00 - 10:30 AM: Registration / Networking / Sponsor Partners
10:30 - 10:40 AM: Welcome
10:40 - 11:40 AM: Lilah Jones - Inclusivity in Meetings
11:40 - 11:45 AM: Outstanding Partner Award
Thank you to Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection
11:45 - 12:15 PM: Sponsor Partner Break “Mocktails”
12:15 - 1:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 - 1:30 PM: Sponsor Partner Presentations
1:30 - 1:40 PM: Proclamation Presentation
1:40 - 2:40 PM: Mike Ferreira, MHA, DES - Third Party Meeting Planner Answering All of Your Questions
2:40 PM: Event Concludes

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RAFFLE
A 50/50 raffle will be held on April 10 during MEID. $10 per ticket; cash or credit will be accepted. Tickets will be sold during registration, networking lunch, and the networking break. The winner will be announced at the end of the day; must be present to win! All proceeds benefit MPI Michigan Chapter education. 
*Raffle ID X12965

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This program has been approved for 2 hours of continuing education credit with the EIC.

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HOTEL RESERVATION

Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection