SAAA Educational Series - Attract Conference and Convention Groups
About this Event
Event Overview
Title: Generating New Group Business — Boost Your Conference and Convention Group Attendance
Date: September 16, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM MST
Venue: White Stallion Dude Ranch, Tucson, AZ
Agenda
Workshop 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Western Play Time 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Live Rodeo 5:00 PM – 5:45 PM
Networking and Refreshments 5:45 PM – 6:30 PM
Panel and Speakers
Moderator: Tom Moulton, SAAA Executive Director
Panelists: Russell True, Owner White Stallion Ranch; Dr. Steven Clauson, Assault Marketing; Jan Hyneman, former MC&A & PRA DBC Professional; Erin Schmidt, University of Arizona Meeting and Events, Jennifer Fishencord, Event and Meeting Planner (eventsbyjfish), President of FeatsAZ.
Event Description
Join us for an engaging, hands-on afternoon that blends practical strategy with authentic western hospitality. Hosted at the historic White Stallion Dude Ranch, this in-person workshop pairs high-impact learning with authentic memorable experiences on one of southern Arizona’s few remaining dude ranches. You’ll step into a setting that evokes Tucson’s ranching heritage—horses, wide skies, and genuine hospitality—while you learn proven tactics to develop and grow conference and convention group business.
Expect an interactive workshop focused on group sales, marketing strategies, and partnership development, followed by a relaxed an authentic rodeo and western reception featuring local flavors. This is learning designed to stick: actionable takeaways delivered in a setting that encourages conversation, relationship building, and creative thinking.
Who Should Attend
- Marketing and Group sales managers and business development teams
- Convention and meeting planners focused on increasing group attendance
- Tourism partners
- Event strategists and venue partners seeking new group business opportunities within their existing or future venues.
Key Takeaways
1. Get to know who you are attracting. Practical group-sales tactics you can implement immediately
2. Marketing strategies tailored to conference and convention audiences
3. Venues are important when attracting and hosting conference and convention meeting.
· Partnership and venue positioning techniques to attract larger groups
· Networking opportunities with industry peers and local destination leaders
Logistics and What to Bring
- Dress code: Business casual with comfortable shoes for ranch grounds
- Parking: Free On-site parking available at White Stallion Guest Ranch
- Food and drink: Western-inspired refreshments provided during networking
Accessibility: Venue is accessible; contact the organizer for specific needs
Contact for questions and registration: [email protected]
This is more than a workshop—it's an experience that combines expert insight with the kind of relaxed, face-to-face networking that drives real partnerships. If you want practical, proven ways to increase group attendance and leave with new and fresh ideas, and contacts, this afternoon at the White Stallion is built for you.
Reserve your spot early — space is limited and this unique in-person format fills quickly. The event is free and open to all SAAA members and invited guests. Be sure to RSVP so we have enough seats.
Heather Ingram, SAAA Program Chair
Tom Moulton, SAAA Executive Director & Panel Moderator
Agenda
🕑: 03:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Increase Attendance Through Group Sales Events
Host: Panel Discussion
🕑: 05:00 PM - 05:45 PM
Live Rodeo Demonstraction
Host: Live Rodeo
🕑: 05:00 PM - 06:30 PM
Network and Western Hospitality
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
