Buzz, Boldness + the Business of Events: LA Roadshow Highlights

Our LA Roadshow was one for the books! Over 60 event pros, students, and future members gathered to connect, celebrate, and reflect on the state of the event industry in Southern California. We kicked things off with a dynamic panel discussion featuring bold insights, trends, and challenges shaping the future of events—led by some of SoCal’s top creative trailblazers.

The presence of several founding members and past chapter leaders added a powerful sense of history, grounding us in the deep roots ILEA holds in LA. From rising stars to industry icons, the energy in the room was electric—full of purpose, pride, and possibility. The evening wrapped with a private viewing of the Totally Awesome exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum, an unforgettable setting for inspiration and new connections. Thank you, LA, for showing up big—and reminding us why this community matters.

Shout out to our speakers: Anna Kim, CIS – National Director, Hotel Sales SoCal & Int’l MICE, LA Tourism + Convention Board; David Merrell – CEO + Creative Director, AOO Events; Jordan Kaye – Founder + CEO, Analog Events; and moderator Melissa Jurcan, CSEP – ILEA International President.

And our event sponsors: Absolutely Fabulous Events and Productions, Inc., AOO Events, Blue Ink, Brian Kramer Photographer, Good Gracious Events, Petersen Automotive Museum. The Roadshows are presented with support from the Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation: Advancing hospitality through education, scholarships, and research that blends academic insight with real-world expertise.