Hi everyone. I'm super excited to be preparing to attend my first LIVE Summit in 2022. Can y'all share with me what you have experienced in the past as far as the additional meal tickets and the extra award gala tickets? Is purchasing the meal package the best route to go? I was thinking of purchasing the extra awards gala ticket so my husband could attend with me. Do others do that? I certainly wouldn't want him to feel like the odd man out if he attends. Looking forward to hear your thoughts. Thanks for your feedback!

Jennifer, you will really enjoy Summit next year in Nashville. The meal package is pretty new. I believe the first time we were going to offer it was when we still believed 2020 Summit would be in person. I believe a fair number of people had signed up for it though, because it just makes things easier in terms of timing and getting back and forth. Many people buy extra gala tickets for their spouses or family members, so you definitely wouldn't be alone in doing that. 

Hi, Jennifer! Planning for Summit is so exciting!

I purchased the meal plan at Summit 2019. It is convenient to know where breakfast and lunch will be and it saves a lot of time It is also helpful for budgeting since most of your meals will be paid for in advance.

Sorry for the multiple entries. The best result of the meal plan was seeing the same people every day.  On Day 1, I met a first time attendee, @Carissa Burgett. We ate together most of those days. When Carissa came to Kansas City for CAPstone we met again. We have stayed in touch, cheering each other on via SocialLink, LinkedIn, texts and cards. A friendship as a result of both of us taking advantage of the meal plan.  Others bring their spouses/significant others to the Gala so free comfortable bringing  your husband. Thank you for allowing me to share a memorable experience! P.S. I think I will take advantage of the meal plan in 2022. 

Thank you both so much! I bought the gala ticket for my spouse and will contemplate the meal plan further before pulling the trigger. Cannot wait!

Thank you, Sharon. I didn’t realize the meal plan was offered in 2019. I stand corrected. Thank you for sharing your experience with it.

Hi Jennifer - glad to hear you will be attending Summit 2022! I've attended 14 so far and have enjoyed them all.
I haven't purchased the meal plan in the past as I'm not a big breakfast eater so I normally visit a nearby grocery store and get some fruit, yogurt, cheese sticks, baby carrots, crackers, etc. which saves me a lot of money. Haven't brought my husband to Summit in years but when he did come in the past, he did not attend gala as he and our son would do some sightseeing while I was taking part in IAAP activities.

Mary Joy

Hi - Yes, I suggest the meal ticket for first-timers..especially if you are alone. It gives you an easy way to know what to do when and where! Plus, the networking with other members is a benefit. If my spouse joins me, I won't do the meal plan as we will add in our own plans, i.e. breakfast in bed ;) So, that kinda lets you know that yes, spouses do attend. Many attendees use Summit as a jump-off for their vacation with spouse &/or family/friends! However, it is a professional conference gala..so, that's a conversation between the two of you to determine if they would miss you if they don't go versus be "bored" if they do. Mine is on the fence..LOL...I'll know more closer to the ticket cut-off date.

Look forward to meeting you. It's an experience you won't forget.

Thanks!!