More than 540 association professionals who plan conferences and suppliers from across Texas gathered in The Woodlands for the Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE) 2024 New Ideas Annual Conference last week. The event marks the second largest in TSAE New Ideas history.
“We were thrilled to welcome TSAE and its members to The Woodlands,” said Brad Bailey, Chairman for Visit The Woodlands. “Our community is known for its hospitality and commitment to excellence, and we enjoyed showcasing our beautiful venue options, hotels, vibrant culture, and exceptional dining experiences to attendees.”
TSAE NEW IDEAS BY THE NUMBERS
- 543 Attendees
- 1,000+ Hotel Rooms
- $740,000+ Estimated Economic Impact*
- 150+ Partners Who Helped Make It Happen
*The estimated economic impact mentioned above is for TSAE New Ideas Annual Conference only. The Texas Society of Association Executives represents over $1.9 Billion in annual member spending within hotel properties, 46,150+ total meetings held in Texas each year, and over 11 million in event attendees. Learn more on the TSAE membership impact here.
TSAE NEW IDEAS ANNUAL CONFERENCE
This prestigious event brought together industry leaders, association professionals, and key decision-makers from across Texas for an engaging program focused on innovation, collaboration, and growth in the association sector.
Held at The Woodlands Resort Curio Collection by Hilton, the TSAE Annual Conference featured keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities designed to inspire and equip attendees with the tools they need to advance their organizations. With themes centered on leadership, strategic planning, and membership engagement, this year’s program delivered valuable insights and actionable strategies.
Participants also enjoyed TSAE’s camp theme, which was designed to help showcase the picturesque outdoor spaces found in The Woodlands. TSAE staff dressed as camp counselors while TSAE branded signage and custom maps pointed attendees to registration, breakout sessions and networking lounges. Onsite activations added to the conference experience including a photo booth, Jabber Yak, and a live podcast studio for TSAE’s podcast, Better By Association.
“We were excited to host the TSAE Annual Conference in such a welcoming and dynamic location,” said Steven Stout, TSAE Executive Director. “The Woodlands offers a unique blend of nature and sophistication that aligned perfectly with our conference goals.”
OPENING NIGHT AT MARKET STREET
The opening night reception at Market Street was an unforgettable experience, setting the stage for a vibrant conference atmosphere. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in unique activations including hand-drawn art portraits, personalized haikus, hair tinsel, custom embroidered bandanas, dueling pianos, a champagne cycle and more. From interactive art displays to live music performances, the evening was filled with opportunities for networking and connection among fellow conference-goers.
Guests savored a delightful selection of food and drinks from Tommy Bahama, Sixty Vines and Bosscat Kitchen. As attendees mingled, they enjoyed signature cocktails and gourmet bites, all while soaking in the charming ambiance of Market Street. This dynamic reception not only kicked off the conference in style but also highlighted a unique activation that Visit The Woodlands could replicate for other convention clients, further enticing attendees to bring their meetings to The Woodlands.
“We are so thankful to the TSAE Team and the TSAE community for giving us the opportunity to host the New Ideas Conference,” said Josie Lewis, Director of Sales for Visit The Woodlands. “We know it will have a ripple effect, creating economic impact for our community and we look forward to welcoming more association conferences back to The Woodlands.”
TSAE EXCURSIONS IN THE WOODLANDS:
Adding to the TSAE experience, conference excursions offered a unique opportunity for attendees to explore The Woodlands further. Participants were able to immerse themselves in a variety of activities that showcased the destination. From a backstage tour at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion to swan boat rides along The Woodlands Waterway, these excursions not only provided a break from the conference sessions, but also fostered networking among attendees in a relaxed setting.
- Backstage Pass: A Journey Through The Pavilion’s Legacy
- Cinematic Elegance: The Audrey Experience
- Hops at Hughes Landing: A Bar Crawl Experience
- Poolside Lounging: Forest Oasis Waterpark & Lazy River
- Leave an Impact: Interfaith of The Woodlands
- Swan Boat Rides: On The Woodlands Waterway
- Creating a Nation of Lifesavers: Hands on Training with the American Heart Association
- A Modern Pizza Making Experience: With Sorriso Italian Kitchen
The blend of education, exploration, and community made TSAE New Ideas a hit among conference goers, allowing attendees to leave with both knowledge and lasting memories of The Woodlands. Learn more about the TSAE Annual Conference here.
ABOUT TSAE
TSAE serves association professionals by creating strong connections – to peers, information, resources, inspiration and innovation – to advance careers and organizations. Their mission is to provide association professionals a community for collaboration, learning and leadership growth. Learn more about TSAE.
