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SPOTLIGHT ON PARTNERSHIP:

LPG & IMARK’s Unforgettable Experience at the Westin Kierland

June 2025 IMARK News
Open Interactive

From April 2–8, 2025, Luxury Products Group (LPG) and IMARK members gathered for back-to-back conferences at the stunning Westin Kierland Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona—and by all accounts, it was one of the most memorable gatherings yet.

With its lush golf course, immaculate grounds and inviting outdoor spaces perfect for networking and relaxation, the Westin Kierland offered a five-star setting. But what truly elevated the experience wasn’t just the location—it was the people behind it.

“We’ve hosted many events, but this was truly one of the best,” shared Peter Ollestad, director of business development, LPG. “General Manager Derek Ellis and his staff were phenomenal— they went above and beyond to make us feel at home.”

That sentiment was mutual. During a farewell meeting with the hotel’s leadership team, Ellis and his staff praised the IMARK and LPG attendees as some of the finest guests they’ve ever had the pleasure of hosting.

“From LPG/IMARK’s initial inquiry through program execution, Stephanie Palmer and John Aykroyd exemplified true professionalism,” said Ellis. “The term ‘partnership’ is often overused; however, it genuinely reflects our experience with the IMARK team. They were organized, responsive, collaborative and consistently positive. On site, they treated our 700+ associates with respect, recognizing them as an extension of their team. We are thrilled to be in discussions for a potential return in 2027 and greatly value the relationship we have built.”

A Partnership Built on Excellence

Ellis’s team didn’t just meet expectations—they anticipated needs. From the initial contract phase with Senior Sales Executive Tracy Davies to daily on-site support from event professionals like Senior Event Manager Emily Shook and Executive Meeting specialist Monica Pereira-Guana, the Westin team delivered concierge-level service throughout the conferences.

“Every team member was warm, attentive and made our attendees feel genuinely welcomed,” said Palmer, IMARK’s administrative assistant and event lead. “They were there from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, making sure we had everything we needed.”

Palmer, who has been with IMARK for 12 years, manages the event process from start to finish— scouting locations, setting agendas, coordinating registration and curating one-on-one supplier meetings. She attended a conference at this very resort in 2015 and was thrilled to return with the LPG and IMARK groups. “It’s an ideal venue—our members were able to enjoy dinners with suppliers, explore nearby shopping and restaurants, and still have space to recharge or network outdoors,” she said.

The resort has achieved an audit score of 94.9% this year, which is the best in the Arizona market and highest in the entire Western region, according to Director of Sales & Marketing Jonathan Amato.

“It shows our associates’ commitment to our brand standards and service metrics,” Amato said. “We are firm believers that people make the property and while the resort has undergone some great physical improvements the past year, our associates are the secret sauce to how we exceed our guest’s expectations.”

More Than a Meeting—A Reunion

Beyond the business agenda, what makes these conferences unique is the sense of reunion. “We’re a family-based culture,” Palmer added. “This is the one time of year where so many of us—members, suppliers, and staff—get to truly connect. It’s not just about work; it’s about catching up on families, sharing stories and strengthening the relationships that drive our industry forward.”

With a structured schedule during the day and informal opportunities to unwind in the evenings, attendees experienced the perfect balance of productivity and connection. “That time together after hours is just as valuable—it’s when future plans are made and partnerships are deepened,” said Palmer.

This year’s conferences at the Westin Kierland stand out not just for the pristine setting, but for the exceptional partnership between IMARK, LPG and the hotel team. It was a testament to what can happen when professionalism meets hospitality—and a powerful reminder that the best events are built on relationships.