When it comes to selecting the perfect destination for your next meeting or event, bigger isn't always better.

Join the MPI Texas Hill Country Chapter for an engaging educational experience that explores why mid-size city markets are becoming some of the industry's best-kept secrets. Discover how these destinations deliver exceptional value, personalized service, and collaborative partnerships that can elevate your events while maximizing your budget.

In many mid-size markets, your event isn't just another date on the calendar - it's a priority. From convention and visitors bureaus that can connect you with hotels, venues, attractions, transportation, and local partners through a single point of contact, to venues where decision-makers are just a phone call away, you'll learn how these destinations simplify the planning process and create memorable attendee experiences.

During this program, you'll hear directly from destination experts and industry professionals as they share real-world examples, practical strategies, and insider tips for leveraging mid-size cities to your advantage. Whether you're planning conferences, meetings, conventions, or special events, you'll walk away with new ideas for delivering greater value to your clients and stakeholders.

Come discover why choosing a mid-size market can help you make a bigger impact - and why sometimes the best place to be is a Big Fish in a Little Pond.

Michele Gonzalez is a seasoned meetings and events professional with more than two decades of experience serving associations, working with association management organizations, and producing live events. Her career has spanned event strategy, venue operations, professional development, program development, logistics, budgets, negotiations, and stakeholder engagement.

Lisa Ann Garcia, C.E.P., serves as Senior Specialist of Student Success for San Antonio College, where she plans programs and events that support student engagement and campus life. She brings valuable insight into educational and nonprofit event planning, with a passion for creating meaningful experiences that strengthen communities.  

Molly Lintz has built her career from both sides of the meetings industry, with experience in hotel sales and corporate event planning. As Senior National Event Specialist for Hanger, Inc., she leads strategic meetings for the healthcare industry, bringing a well-rounded perspective on partnerships, sourcing, and event execution.

DATES: Friday, August 28 @ 4:30 P.M., and Saturday, August 29, 2026 until 2:00 P.M.

LOCATION: Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village
750 Ih 35 North, New Braunfels, TX, 78130
FREE Parking at the venue

COST: $75 Members | $100 Non-Members | $50 Students

Registration includes:
Happy hour networking reception and educational program, plus
Saturday: Experience New Braunfels on Saturday

Registration Deadline: Friday, August 28 at 11:00 AM

 EXPERIENCE NEW BRAUNFELS

 

CE CREDITS

 

Attendees will earn Two CE Credits toward CMP certification renewal.

This program is designed to combine education, connection, and destination discovery into one meaningful industry experience.

EVENT SPONSORS

We’d like to thank Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village for sponsoring the venue, Visit New Braunfels, for Saturday's Experience and CIRCA Studio Destination Management as our event sponsor, and Attendee Management for providing Registration Services.

 

 

Your spot is waiting. Claim it.