Industry News for February 7, 2025Industry News for February 7, 2025

Venue News

A historic property in the picturesque mountain ranching town of Clark, CO, The Home Ranch announces its new luxury western events facility, designed for weddings, corporate retreats and private events. The property was previously operated as a guest ranch before becoming private in 2019, and the family compound is now open for very few, select public events, offering a rare opportunity to explore 3,000 acres of pristine Rocky Mountain wilderness and countless activities to engage guests for team building, personal challenges and more. The Home Ranch is now booking events for June 2025 and beyond. 

Fertitta Hospitality has announced the transformative renovations of the Hilton Galveston Island Resort are now complete. The multi-million-dollar investment enhances every aspect of the resort, combining modern upgrades with the charm of Galveston’s coastal history. Guests will enjoy enriched guest rooms, an innovative restaurant concept and bar, a revitalized pool deck, a modernized fitness center, and refreshed meeting spaces. 

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, a celebrated retreat renowned for its vibrant heritage and island charm, announces its 45th anniversary in 2025, commemorating over four decades of offering an unparalleled Hawaiian experience on the pristine shores of Ka‘anapali Beach. Since its debut, the iconic Hyatt Regency Maui has reframed the concept of the “destination resort” becoming one of the first in the world to feature multiple pools, Hawaii’s first and only oceanfront spa, wildlife habitats, expansive tropical gardens and award-winning dining to accompany its idyllic setting. Today the resort remains a beacon of Hawaiian hospitality, providing guests with exceptional service and amenities alongside the spirit of aloha. In honor of the milestone anniversary, the property is unveiling a special offer, an exciting lineup of on-site activities and exclusive social media giveaways to delight guests and locals alike. 

People on the Move

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, a modern and sophisticated hotel located in the heart of downtown on the St. Johns River next to the scenic Main Street Bridge, announces the promotion of Josh Hoce to Director of Group Sales. In his new role, Hoce will focus on securing large group bookings while mentoring his team and driving innovative business strategies.

Atlantis Paradise Island has announced the promotion of Richie Kavanagh to Vice President and General Manager of The Reef Residences. Kavanagh has been with the iconic Bahamas resort for over three years, starting as the Assistant General Manager for The Cove and The Reef Residences. In his new role, Richie will oversee various aspects of The Reef Residences' operations, providing strategic leadership and guidance for all areas of the division. 

At the recent conclusion of The ARA Show™ 2025 in Las Vegas, terms began for a new president, president-elect and board chair for the American Rental Association (ARA), Moline, Ill: Robert H. Pedersen, President and CEO of A Tool Shed, Inc. (Santa Cruz, CA) has been installed as the 63^rd president of the board of directors for the ARA. Brian Richardson, President and CEO of L&A Tent Rentals (Hamilton, NJ), has been approved by industry peers to fulfill the role of president-elect for the ARA. Jeff Crotto, CERP, President of All About Events (Jacksonville, FL), has been installed as the ARA’s board chair, replacing Steve Mau, ECP-SM, president of Brainerd General Rental (Brainerd, MN) who has concluded his one-year term as chair of the board of directors. 

Hot off the Press

Eventbrite has released a new data-driven report that shows how young adults are increasingly drawn to events that go beyond traditional third places, like bars and coffee shops. Data shows Fourth Spaces™ are in hot demand among young adults. These Fourth Spaces are experiences that transform online interests into meaningful, real-world connections. The report is loaded with insights for event organizers, designed to help them create more intentional connections for their unique audiences. 

GoGather, a corporate event planning company, has announced their official partnership with Clarity Experiences, a corporate audiovisual production company, for the GoGather Affiliate Program. The GoGather Affiliate Program offers clients the opportunity to work with trusted, high-value vendors within the corporate events space. This official affiliate designation between GoGather and Clarity Experiences improves their overall partnership and enhances the offerings they can provide clients.