Networking Events
New Member Roundtable
To kickstart Convention, new members are encouraged to attend this invitation-only event to meet with NIA staff and leadership. New members will get the opportunity to introduce themselves and their company, discuss their reasons for joining and expectations, and get valuable tips on how to make the most out of their first Convention. This is a great chance to get involved and make connections, all while sipping on a specialty cocktail!
Convention First-Timer and VIP Reception
If this is your first NIA Convention, be sure to RSVP to this invitation-only cocktail reception where you'll have the opportunity to network with NIA leadership and industry leaders, and also enjoy getting to know fellow members of NIA. Invitations are required. To ensure your invitation to this event, be sure to check the "First Convention" box when you register.
Welcome and Appreciation Evening: Glamping under the Stars
Enjoy the great outdoors under the desert sky during this family-friendly evening! The reception will feature an astronomer, lawn games, and a caricaturist. Or you can relax around one of the outdoor fire pits and roast a s’more while you listen to live music. There is something for everyone at the first networking event of the week!
The evening includes a full meal and bar. Due to local laws, drink tickets are required at this year’s event. Each registered adult will receive 3 complimentary drink tickets. Resort wear is encouraged, such as khaki shorts for men and capris or sundresses for women.
Farewell Reception and Dinner
Join us for the finale of NIA’s Convention! This event includes a cocktail reception, a full meal with wine service, and an opportunity to celebrate our outgoing NIA President, Dana Vlk of Distribution International Inc. After the event concludes, we will continue the evening’s festivities at the Dessert Hospitality Suites and NIA’s Silent Auction.
Due to local laws, drink tickets are required at this year’s event. Each registered adult will receive 1 complimentary drink ticket during the reception and wine will be served during dinner. The attire for this event is resort casual wear (for example, khaki pants for men, and capris or sundresses for women).
Hosted Dessert Hospitality Suites
Immediately following the Farewell Dinner, participating Associate (Manufacturer) member companies will tempt you with unique desserts and hosted bars. Attendees will have the opportunity to enter into a drawing for a special raffle prize this evening by visiting each hosted suite and completing the dessert bingo raffle card. Plan to visit each suite and extend your time networking with industry friends while enjoying the sweetest event of the week.
NIA's Silent Auction
NIA’s Silent Auction is a popular biennial event offering an evening of extravagant donations that you can bid on, knowing that your donation benefits Folds of Honor and NIA’s Foundation for Education, Training, and Industry Advancement. The Silent Auction will take place on Friday, April 17, the final night of Convention, which allows attendees plenty of time to familiarize themselves with the available auction items! Some of the past donations have included designer handbags, tickets to sporting events, jewelry, trips or vacation homestays, sports equipment, and fine wine and spirits. To learn more, please visit the Silent Auction website by clicking here.