AAHOA

Another successful stop on the HOC Series: Arkansas. The Arkansas Hotel Owners Conference & Trade Show featured a full day of advocacy, education, networking, and industry insights, made possible by Regional Director Andy Patel and his Ambassador team. Highlights from the day: → Remarks from Arkansas Speaker of the House Brian S. Evans, Arkansas Secretary of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Shea Lewis, Mayor Frank Scott Jr., Arkansas Hospitality Association CEO Alicia Payseno, and a special video message from Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders → A General Session panel, "Financing Growth & Driving Profitability in Today's Hospitality Market," where moderator Alicia Payseno joined Danny Patel, John Harbour, Ryan Cole, and Jerry Talbert to discuss financing, insurance, operations, and strategies for long-term success Thank you to every attendee, speaker, exhibitor, and partner who helped make the Arkansas HOC a success. #AAHOAHOC2026 #ArkansasHoteliers

Why HerO? 💜 The HerOwnership community is built on women who believe in learning from one another, lifting each other up, and leading with purpose. In our Why HerO? series, we're sharing what inspired attendees to join us in Nashville. Here's why Kataki (Kate-Key) Patel, AAHOA Ambassador and Vice President of Operations at Exceptional Hospitality, registered for HerOwnership: "I'm excited to attend HerOwnership because it's an opportunity to connect with an incredible community of women who are passionate about growing, leading, and supporting one another. As a hotel owner and operator, I value learning from other leaders, sharing experiences, and bringing back ideas that will strengthen my business. I'm especially looking forward to the meaningful conversations, networking, and inspiration that will come from this year's event." From fresh ideas to lasting connections, HerOwnership is designed to help women in hospitality thrive—both personally and professionally. Registration is complimentary for both AAHOA Members and nonmembers, and our discounted hotel room block at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Nashville Airport closes August 31. Reserve your spot today, and keep an eye out for more Why HerO? stories from the women who make this community so special. https://bit.ly/4vSlLnA

As America marks 250 years, AAHOA Southeast Texas Regional Director Bhavik Patel reflects on the milestones that define both entrepreneurship and community. From navigating economic cycles and growing as a hotel owner to stepping into leadership roles that serve others, each chapter has been shaped by perseverance, mentorship, and family values. Bhavik’s journey took him from his family’s hotels to serving on the AAHOA Board of Directors. "Professional success is most meaningful when it contributes to something lasting — supporting employees, strengthening local communities, and preparing the next generation to lead with integrity and purpose." For AAHOA Members across the country, America's 250th anniversary is both a reflection on past milestones and a renewed commitment to future ones. Read Today's Hotelier for more member reflections on milestones this historic year brings to mind, and let us know yours. https://bit.ly/4dCwqgc. #AAHOA #America250 #HospitalityLeadership #Legacy

The South Central Texas Hotel Owners Conference & Trade Show delivered a day of networking, advocacy, education, and connection — made possible by Regional Director Vikash “Vic” Patel and his Ambassador team. Thank you to Justin Bragiel, General Counsel & Legislative Director at the Texas Hotel & Lodging Association (THLA), for joining us during the General Session and providing legislative updates impacting hotel owners in Texas. Stay connected and see where the HOC Series heads next at AAHOA.com/HOCs! #AAHOAHOC2026 #TexasHoteliers #AAHOA

Join us next week at two AAHOA Hotel Owners Conferences & Trade Shows for networking and education sessions focused on today's biggest opportunities and challenges for hotel owners. Tuesday, August 4 | North Central HOC 📍 Southfield, MI EDU Session | 2-3 p.m. EDT "Claim 101: What Hotel Owners Need to Know Before Filing a Property Claim" Join Yulia Houghtaling, Partner at Gauthier Murphy & Houghtaling LLC, as she explains how proper documentation, restoration decisions, and key contract terms can impact the outcome of your next property claim. Thursday, August 6 | Georgia HOC 📍 Duluth, GA EDU Session | 12:30-1:30 p.m. EDT "Leveraging AI to Drive Revenue, Profitability, and Growth" Join Davin Fan, SVP of Strategy and Market Development at Mews, and Rohit Mathur, CEO and Co-Founder of Bridge, as they share practical ways independent hotel owners can use AI to improve sales and marketing, analyze P&Ls and STR reports, streamline operations, and uncover new opportunities to increase revenue and profitability. Register today at AAHOA.com/Calendar. #AAHOAHOC2026 #HotelOwners #AAHOA

AAHOA welcomes growing support for expanding SBA lending opportunities for entrepreneurs. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, who joined AAHOA as a keynote speaker at last year’s AAHOA Fall National Advocacy Conference, recently shared with Forbes her support for increasing SBA loan limits: https://gqr.sh/QUvZ AAHOA will continue championing policies like the STRONG Act/LIONs Act, which would expand access to SBA 7(a) and 504 loan programs and help small business hotel owners invest in their businesses and communities. This September, AAHOA will be in Washington, D.C., for the AAHOA Leadership & Advocacy Conference to ensure America's hoteliers have a strong voice on Capitol Hill. We also encourage members to contact their Congressional leaders and ask them to support the STRONG Act: https://lnkd.in/gsQ8MBM4

Every hotel is more than a place to stay. It can be a place where someone finds safety, hope, and a path to freedom. On World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, we encourage every AAHOA Member to consider the role your property can play in helping end human trafficking. From ensuring your team completes the AAHOA sponsored Inhospitable to Human Trafficking training through our partner, Businesses Ending Slavery & Trafficking (BEST), to displaying signage that lets victims know your hotel is a safe place to seek help, every action matters. If you're located in the state of Washington, you can make an even greater impact by joining BEST's Safe Jobs Collaborative (SJC), which connects employers with job-ready survivors of human trafficking and individuals at risk. By creating pathways to meaningful employment, hotels can help people rebuild their lives while strengthening their teams. https://bit.ly/4yMbFXH The signs are not always obvious—but a trained team can make all the difference. Together, we can help ensure our hotels are places of hospitality, safety, and opportunity. Learn more about AAHOA's partnership with BEST and access complimentary training today. https://bit.ly/4fOVVLc

What will hotel development look like in 2027? Join AAHOA Treasurer Vimal ( Ricky) Patel at The Lodging Conference, October 5–8 in Phoenix, for the Hotel Development: What to Expect in 2027 Think Tank, where industry experts will discuss the trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping future hotel investment and growth. AAHOA is proud to serve as a Platinum Sponsor and to have our leaders represented throughout this industry event. Watch the video: https://bit.ly/4yuuO0r Register today: https://lnkd.in/dbs2ze_U We look forward to seeing you there.

Why HerO? 💜 Every woman has a reason for saying "yes" to HerOwnership. Throughout the coming weeks, we're highlighting the voices of attendees who are helping shape this incredible community. Here's why Aarti Soma, AAHOA Women Hoteliers Committee Member, is joining us in Nashville: "I registered because the program is focused on building a strong sisterhood and helping women grow within the hospitality industry. To me, HerOwnership is a space where women can support one another, build confidence, and step into leadership roles. I am especially looking forward to meeting inspiring women at this year’s conference and learning practical tools that will help me continue growing in my own journey." Whether you're looking to grow your network, sharpen your leadership skills, or connect with women who understand your journey, HerOwnership is where those connections begin. Registration is complimentary for both AAHOA Members and nonmembers, but don't wait—our discounted hotel room block at Delta Hotels by Marriott Nashville Airport closes on August 31. Secure your spot today, and stay tuned for more Why HerO? stories. https://bit.ly/4vSlLnA

Planning for AAHOACON27 is officially underway! Our 2027 Convention Committee recently visited Anaheim to begin shaping the attendee experience, from education sessions and networking opportunities to the Trade Show and more. We're excited about what's taking shape, and we look forward to welcoming the hospitality industry to Anaheim in May 2027. Interested in exhibiting or sponsoring? Now is the perfect time to reserve your place and connect with thousands of hotel owners. Learn more and reserve your space at AAHOACON.com/Exhibits. We look forward to seeing you in Anaheim! #AAHOACON27 #AAHOA #Hospitality #HotelOwners #TradeShow