It is evident that the focus on inclusion and accessibility has moved to forefront of many meetings and events. DeFelices believes that the meetings industry will continue to see attendees willingly share their needs.

To help keep meeting schedules on track and events running smoothly, it’s essential for meeting planners to prioritize effective scheduling practices and invest in tools and processes that support organization and efficiency.

It’s not hard to imagine why meeting professionals seeking the wonder of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and the warm sun of the tropics, come together in the Caribbean. Who doesn’t like to combine business and leisure?

The Lone Star State is shining bright and its main hubs — Fort Worth, El Paso, San Austin, Houston, San Antonio and Dallas — have made themselves more appealing, developing at lighting speed and creating venues perfect for holding city-wide events to smaller meetings.

Dialing back is one of the hardest things for entrepreneurs to do, because for many of us, it feels like failure. I feel the opposite is true. An intentional pause can save your business. In other words, say no … for now.