Attending IBTM World 2025 in Barcelona, Spain this year was an incredible experience and one that left me inspired both personally and professionally. I’m always looking for fresh perspectives, new ideas, and ways to elevate the experiences I deliver and this year’s show gave me all of that and more.
One of the most memorable moments was being invited to the dinner hosted by Julius Solaris, founder of Boldpush, along with vFairs. The room was filled with event professionals from five continents, and the energy, conversations, and new connections made it a true highlight of my trip. I left that evening feeling grateful and honored to be part of such a passionate global community.
Dinner hosted by Julius Solaris, founder of Boldpush, along with vFairs in Barcelona, Spain. Photo Credit: Julius Solaris & Boldpush
Beyond Excellent Events Owner with Julius Solaris, founder of Boldpush.
Global Meetings & Destination Inspiration
IBTM gave me the opportunity to meet with incredible professionals from around the world. I enjoyed the booths presentations showcasing the best of: Ireland, Iceland and London.
I met one-on-one with representatives from destinations including the Mexican Caribbean, Cayman Islands, Spain, Portugal, England, Canada, Switzerland, Greece, Italy, and more – plus many DMCs and major hotel groups.
These conversations opened my eyes to new venues, emerging markets, and unique experiences I can bring to future client events.
Session Highlights & What I Learned
Throughout the week, I attended several sessions that explored the evolving landscape of events especially around AI, technology, human connection, and the future of experience design.
*Experience the future of human-AI interaction with Ameca the Robot and Julius Solaris
This session was a fascinating look at how AI is shaping our industry. Watching Ameca the Robot interviewed by Julius Solaris sparked an important conversation: Is AI going to take over events? My takeaway was clear: NO! AI is incredibly useful for data, personalization, and efficiency, but it still needs us. Human creativity and connection, remain irreplaceable. AI supports the experience; it doesn’t define it.
*Event Tech + AI. How all in one software is changing
Speakers Included the host Julius Solaris, Founder, Boldpush, Pedro Goes, CEO, InEvent and Felicia Asiedu, Marketing Director, Cvent.
This panel dove into how event platforms are using AI to close knowledge gaps, automate repetitive tasks, and offer more intuitive planning experiences. Takeaways: AI powered tools are improving speed, personalization, and access to event insights. AI is moving from simple content creation to predictive assistance and proactive operational support. AI will soon handle tasks like venue sourcing and real-time event management working with planners, not instead of them.
*How Small Teams Win with AI Agents
Speakers Included the host Julius Solaris, Founder, Boldpush and Nick Rosier, Managing Director, gther.
This session highlighted how AI is becoming a powerful tool for small teams, not just large enterprises. Using real examples with tools like n8n and Clay, discussed how AI agents streamline workflows, eliminate manual tasks, and create new opportunities for growth. Key Takeaways: AI agents boost productivity by automating code generation, data analysis, and workflow tasks helping small teams deliver faster and more personalized, data-driven solutions. AI-powered lead enrichment transforms event marketing and sales, enabling detailed attendee profiles and real-time insights that improve outreach, engagement, and live-event conversations.
*From Experience to Transformation: The Next Big Shift
Speaker: B. Joseph Pine II, International Author, Speaker
This Keynote session explored how economic value has evolved from commodities, to goods, to services and now to experiences. Pine explained that experiences offer “time well spent,” but the next major shift goes even deeper: transformations. In the Transformation Economy, businesses help guide customers through personalized, meaningful journeys that create lasting change. Key Takeaways: Experiences become more valuable when designed intentionally, integrating multiple realms to create memorable engagement. The next evolution is the Transformation Economy, where businesses help customers achieve personal or professional growth. Transformational experiences create the highest value by guiding people toward their aspirations and lasting outcomes.
IBTM World reminded me why I love this industry so much. It blends creativity, innovation, global culture, and the power of human connection. I left Barcelona inspired, energized, and excited to bring these ideas to the clients and events I support.
