Event Recap - Lodging Innsights Door County

5/24/2024

On May 23, members from across the state gathered in Baileys Harbor for Lodging Innsights Door County. This event marked the fifth installment of WHLA's award-winning event series. Over 60 attendees convened at Gordon Lodge to listen to expert speakers, discuss topics impacting their businesses, and to network with industry peers.

Wisconsin Women in Lodging Luncheon & Panel

Before the start of Lodging Innsights Door County, the Wisconsin Women in Lodging (WWIL) held a luncheon featuring a panel discussion with respected resort leaders from notable properties in the area. WHLA Vice President and WWIL Steering Committee Staff Liaison Monica Goeke, CAE, welcomed the group and moderated the discussion with Joan Hutchinson from Pheasant Park Resort, Missy LeBelle from High Point Inn, and Denise Stillman from Parkwood Lodge. The panelists shared their career stories and offered advice on team building and leadership.

Guest and Tech Solutions with Big Results

Lodging Innsights educational sessions began with three solution-sharing sessions. Attendees heard how lodging properties in Wisconsin are using technology solutions to enhance their operations and guest experience.

Moving Insurance from a Cost Driver to a Profit Driver:
Richard Edwards, InsuraGuest, and Dave Sekeres, Lake Lawn Resort shared the story of implementation at a Wisconsin resort.
Innovative HR Solutions for Staffing Success:
Karen Hoben shared information on human resource applications and staffing resources available through Tandem HR.
Using Automation to Manage Remotely & Save Time:
Luke Baumbach, Aqua Aire Inn & Suites, provided an overview of the process and benefits of automating his destination property.

Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers shared exciting updates about the department's efforts to promote Wisconsin as a tourism destination.

Advocating for Tourism in Wisconsin

During the next educational session, the latest updates on WHLA's advocacy efforts and state tourism promotion activities were discussed. Firstly, WHLA President and CEO Bill Elliott, CAE provided an overview of the successes from the most recent Wisconsin legislative session and the association's advocacy initiatives. Following that, Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers shared exciting updates about the department's efforts to promote Wisconsin as a tourism destination.

Seasonal Staffing Solutions

Attendees were able to learn about the H2B visa process from an immigration expert and USITEX Law Inc.’s lead attorney Glenn Mandel. This session dove into solutions available to enhance retention and recruitment efforts, and Madel answered about the H2B and J1 visa process.

Elevating Tourism: A Collaborative Conversation with Door County Lodging Leaders, State Officials, and Local Leaders

The afternoon educational sessions ended with a panel discussion involving local and state officials and leaders. Greg Stillman from Parkwood Lodge moderated the panel, which included esteemed leaders such as Juliana Behme, Administrator of Door County Tourism Zone, Julie Gilbert, President and CEO of Destination Door County, and Wisconsin State Representative Joel Kitchens.

Networking Reception

After the educational sessions, the group gathered at the Boat House for a networking reception with drinks and appetizers overlooking the beautiful North Bay. Destination Door County sponsored the reception.

Professor of Law and Public Policy and director of the Marquette Law School Poll Charles Franklin

Dinner + Insights into the 2024 General Election

In the evening, attendees returned to the Event Center to enjoy a delicious dinner, drinks, and dessert while listening to a presentation by Professor of Law and Public Policy and director of the Marquette Law School Poll Charles Franklin. Bill Elliott, CAE, explained the importance of advocacy within the organization and introduced Professor Franklin. Franklin provided insights into current voter trends and expectations for the 2024 General Election. The dinner was sponsored by Infor.

Additional Sponsorship Support was provided by Royal Basket Trucks, Kehlmann Restoration, and Gordon Lodge.