Join us for the annual BTMA Holiday Party and Gift Exchange—a celebration you won’t want to miss!

Registration is Closed

Join us for the annual BTMA Holiday Party and Gift Exchange—a celebration you won’t want to miss!

Whether you're a current member, former member, or just curious about BTMA, everyone is invited to join the festivities at the member rate of $35. Bring a friend and a wrapped gift, and be ready to dive into our lively gift exchange!

Here’s how the gift exchange works:

• Bring a wrapped gift valued at around $25, and you’re in the game!

• You’ll start by drawing a number. When it’s your turn, choose a gift from the pile or “steal” one from another participant.

• If your gift gets taken, you can choose another from the pile or steal from someone else.

• Remember, each gift can only change hands three times (once unwrapped and twice stolen) before it’s out of play—and no taking back the gift just stolen from you!

This event is always a highlight of the year, so come ready for some friendly competition, lots of laughs, and holiday cheer!

Join us at LexArts in November to hear from Ame Sweetall, President and CEO of LexArts!

At this meeting, our speaker, Ame Sweetall, will provide insights into the state of Lexington's arts sector, the role of LexArts, and the impact of community-wide arts initiatives.

Join us for the Bluegrass Tourism Marketing Association's November Meeting at LexArts in downtown Lexington. Our featured speaker will be Ame Sweetall, President and CEO of LexArts, who brings a lifetime of passion for nonprofit work paired with a strategic business approach. Since taking the helm of LexArts in February 2020, Ame has driven significant growth in the organization, including navigating the pandemic with remarkable fundraising success, securing a permanent home for LexArts, and championing arts advocacy across the region.

During her presentation, Ame will provide insights into the state of Lexington's arts sector, the role of LexArts, and the impact of community-wide arts initiatives. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the local arts council and the importance of the United Arts Fund in supporting Lexington's vibrant creative landscape.

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with fellow tourism professionals and learn about the vital role the arts play in enriching our community!

LexArts is Lexington’s official local arts agency and United Arts Fund, creating opportunities for quality arts experiences in central Kentucky through leadership, funding, advocacy, programming, and communication. 

LexArts is a catalyst for creating a progressive and innovative community inspired by the arts.

LexArts provides annual funding to over 50 arts organizations and individual artists through General Operating Support grants, Community Arts Development grants, Arts Equity Grants, and more.  Additionally, LexArts provides a wide range of programs, initiatives, and services designed to integrate the arts into our daily lives, including the LexArts Gallery Hop, LexArts Network, Arts Everywhere for Students: A Teacher’s Guide, institutional art purchases, public art, and more.

LexArts also owns and operates ArtsPlace, a former YWCA turned cultural edifice, which offers rehearsal space and office space for nonprofit arts organizations. ArtsPlace is also home to LexArts Gallery, one of Lexington’s premier visual art galleries, dedicated to showcasing high-quality works by Kentucky artists.

Celebrate the coming of cooler weather with us at the Keeneland Race Meet on Wednesday, October 9th! 

Registration is Closed

Your ticket includes the following:

• general admission to Keeneland

• $20 food & beverage voucher

• program 

• BETologist – Teaching Betting 101 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm (invaluable when betting!)

You’ll pick up your ticket and voucher at Will Call, the top of parking row 7, and then head to Elevator B behind the painted jockeys in the Paddock.

We’ll meet you on the second floor starting at 12:30 pm. Gates open at 11:00 am.

Feel free to come and go as your schedule allows!

A Note About Parking

Parking is an additional fee of $10 per car if purchased for the Green Lot. Put your confirmation of payment on your dashboard.

Free parking is available in The Meadow. See map below.

Join us at Harper Hall in September to hear from Eric Frankl, President and CEO of Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport!

At this meeting, our speaker, Eric Frankl, will discuss the current state of the aviation industry, considerations for recruiting air service, and updates on Blue Grass Airport.

Eric Frankl is the President and CEO of Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport. In this capacity, Eric has overall responsibility for the day-to-day management of the airport, including airport operations, finance and administration, development, and community relations. He has worked in the airport industry for over 30 years. Prior to his appointment at Blue Grass Airport, Eric served as the Executive Director at the airport in Toledo, Ohio, and the Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield, Illinois.

Eric is a graduate of Bowling Green State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Management in 1986. He received his professional accreditation in 1996 from the American Association of Airport Executives and served as President of the Great Lakes Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives in 2004/2005. In 2010, he was awarded an Industry Excellence Award by the National Air Transportation Association for his efforts in fostering relationships with local aviation businesses and was also named Airport Manager of the Year by the Federal Aviation Administration Southern Region. He recently concluded a three-year term as the Chair of the Airline Economics and Air Service Committee for the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and currently serves as Chair of the National Leadership Development Committee for AAAE.

Eric is also an active member of the local community and has served on numerous local Boards, including the Kentucky Blood Center, Bluegrass Care Navigators, LexArts, and Kentuckians for Better Transportation. He currently serves on the Lexington Business Advisory Council for the Federal Reserve Bank in Cleveland.

Harper Hall is a unique 2-story venue located in the heart of downtown Lexington.

Offering open concept space on both floors allowing you the ability to create the ideal layout for your event.

The first floor is perfect for conferences, seminars, ceremonies, training and luncheons, while the second floor is designed for celebrations, dinners, presentations, cocktail receptions and so much more.

Join us at Bluegrass Distillers at Elkwood Farm in Midway in August for a Social Networking & Bourbon Tasting Event!

Bluegrass Distillers’ journey to Elkwood Farm began in 2018, but the farm itself was constructed nearly 200 years ago in the mid-1830s. The primary residence on the property now serves as the Visitors Center with tasting rooms, a gift shop, and a main bar. They are constructing the distillery building, which will also house a lab, bottling facility, and bar, in addition to ten barrel warehouses around the property. Once completed, the new distillery will be able to produce over 30,000 barrels per year, a 100% increase from the 300 barrels made at their Downtown Lexington facility. In addition to the new Visitors Center and Distillery, they will utilize most of the 62 acres surrounding the mansion to cultivate their blue and yellow corn, which is used in producing their award-winning bourbons.

The historic grounds, where you’ll immerse yourself in an authentic grain-to-glass distillery experience, are located just 10 minutes from Frankfort, KY, and 15 minutes from Lexington, KY. Production began in Summer 2024. Guided Tastings and Visitors Center are now open to the public.

BTMA Putt-Putt Tournament

presented by

TravelHost of the Bluegrass

Join us for a day of fun and philanthropy at the Bluegrass Tourism Marketing Association's Putt-Putt Tournament on June 4, 2024, at Malibu Jack's in Lexington, KY! Tee off for a cause and help support two vital local non-profit organizations: The Nest Lexington and Natalie's Sisters.

By participating in this exciting event, you'll not only enjoy a thrilling round of putt-putt with friends and family, but you'll also contribute to the crucial missions of these organizations. The Nest Lexington works tirelessly to prevent abuse and neglect, offering support and resources to families in crisis. Meanwhile, Natalie's Sisters extends hope, support, and God's love to women affected by sex trafficking and exploitation, providing them with respite, relationships, and referrals to essential community resources.

Your involvement in the BTMA Putt-Putt Tournament will make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need within our community. So mark your calendars, gather your putters, and join us for an afternoon of fun, fellowship, and fundraising. Together, we can make a positive impact and support these vital causes. See you on the greens at Malibu Jack's!

Registration closes Friday, May 31 at noon.

Join us for an immersive experience: the Bites of the Bluegrass Distillery District Food & History Tour!

Meet us in RELIC at 11:30 am. The tour starts promptly at 11:50 am.

Registration is Closed.

Join Bites of the Bluegrass in the lively Distillery District for an experience you won’t forget!

Join us at Luna’s Coffee, Wine, and Butterfly Café to hear from Charla Reed!

Join us at Luna’s Coffee, Wine, and Butterfly Café, a quaint cafe dedicated to moths and butterflies—the only kind in the country. We will hear from our speaker, Charla Reed, executive director of Visit Jessamine, and discover the beauty, charm, and adventure in Jessamine County!

BTMA Members will gain insights into the latest marketing initiatives unfolding in Jessamine County at our April meeting. From captivating attractions to must-do experiences, immerse yourself in the allure of our vibrant community.

Alison Davis co-owns Luna’s Coffee, Wine, and Butterfly Cafe with her husband, Web Barney. Alison, a professor in the College of Agriculture at the University of Kentucky, met Web, an entomologist, within the corridors of academia. Together, they created Luna’s, a charming cafe and the first of its kind in the nation.

Alison will share her journey of navigating the restaurant industry’s complexities amidst the challenges of the COVID era and unveil Luna’s unique value proposition. Discover how this delightful establishment enriches Jessamine County and its surrounding areas, offering an experience unlike any other.

Alison’s journey began with extensive restaurant experience in the 90s, but she soon transitioned to the field of economics. Today, she is a Professor of Agricultural Economics at UK, wielding her expertise to direct CEDIK, a statewide center dedicated to community and economic development. At Luna’s, Alison seamlessly intertwines her passion for food and business, overseeing its culinary aspects. Meanwhile, her husband Web, a trained entomologist, lends his expertise to curate Luna’s captivating indoor butterfly and moth exhibits and the enchanting butterfly house. Together, they infuse Luna’s with a blend of culinary artistry and entomological wonder.

Join us at The Lexington Opera House to hear from Edd MacKey!

If you haven’t paid your 2024 membership dues yet, please click here to join.

Registration is closed.

Join us at the historic Lexington Opera House for an Overview of Local Performing Arts.

This month’s BTMA meeting aims to underscore the significance of supporting the Lexington Opera House and our vibrant local arts community.

Led by Edd MacKey, former house manager and now manager of national and local arts for the venue, attendees will gain invaluable insights into the cultural landscape of Lexington. Drawing from his five-year tenure at the Opera House and experience in the arts sector, MacKey will shed light on the integral role this iconic venue and local arts groups play in shaping our community’s identity.

Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your understanding of the arts scene in Lexington and discover how you can contribute to its flourishing. Join us at the Lexington Opera House and be inspired to champion our local performing arts.

Join us at Keeneland for Business Etiquette 101 + Dining Etiquette!

If you haven’t paid your 2024 membership dues yet, please click here to join.

Registration is closed.

Join Nancy Boatman of Nancy Boatman Etiquette for our February Meeting!

We hope that by the time you leave our meeting, you understand business etiquette principles and feel confident about formal dining etiquette.

Nancy Boatman is an etiquette consultant and life skills coach focused on helping students and professionals learn etiquette basics. Nancy teaches students of all ages and covers dining etiquette, interview preparation, and business etiquette.

Before starting her business, Nancy had over a decade of experience in corporate marketing communications. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown College.

Nancy lives in Lexington with her husband and two children. Aside from teaching etiquette, Nancy loves volunteering in Lexington – specifically serving on the Advisory Board for the Carol Barr Fund with the American Heart Association, the Her Knight Dance Board, and volunteering in her children’s schools.

It’s time for the Annual Holiday Party & Gift Exchange!

If you've never been to a BTMA holiday party or gift exchange before or haven't been in a while, this is undoubtedly a FUN time!

Everyone is welcome to this meeting for the member rate of $35 regardless of whether you are a current member, former member, or non-member. Bring a friend, a wrapped gift, and your game face because the gift exchange can get serious.

Here's how it works.

Bring a wrapped gift valued at about $25. Everyone who brings a gift gets to play. First, you will draw a number. Then, when your number comes up you will get to choose a gift or steal someone else's gift.

You can choose a new present or steal from someone else if your gift gets stolen. One gift can pass through three hands (unwrapped once and stolen twice) before it is no longer in play. You may also not steal back a gift just stolen from you.

Join us in November at Old North Bar in Greyline Station to hear from Julia Truitt Poynter of Transylvania University.

Hospitality guests have changed in recent years due to COVID-19 and a possible recession. What impact have these items had on the most recent generational cohort, Gen Z, and what does it mean for current and future marketing?

While Julia Truitt Poynter has been a college professor in hospitality and business programs her entire career, she has worked in various positions in the hospitality industry. From running a catering company, managing a bed and breakfast inn, booking gigs and handling a radio tour for a band, and coordinating more events than she can count as an event planner, she currently has a consulting company assisting small businesses get off the group and grow while teaching at Transylvania University.

Julia is also a registered dietitian nutritionist who roots for both the University of Kentucky and the University of Georgia, where she completed her degrees. Having lived in Georgia and Texas before returning home to Kentucky, she has never lost her love for good barbecue from growing up in Owensboro, Kentucky.

Getting to know Bluegrass Tourism Marketing Association!

Registration is closed.

Are you curious about the Bluegrass Tourism Marketing Association?

BTMA is a partnership of tourism professionals founded to expand awareness of members' businesses through networking opportunities and professional development.

Lexington and the Bluegrass region set the standard for hospitality nationally and internationally. By working together, we continue to grow our businesses and expand our reach, making a fantastic impact in the Bluegrass and worldwide.

Join us on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, for an October Networking event at The Grove. You can speak with current members about their experience with BTMA and win prizes such as free hotel night stays, restaurant certificates, Lexington merchandise, and more! We would love to share more about BTMA and the networking opportunities it provides in the marketing and tourism industries.

The event will be located at The Grove, a micro-community that bolsters small businesses and is an archetype for commerce. Delicious light hors d’oeuvres and one drink ticket will be provided to each registered attendee. Check out their fascinating history here.

Network, Display Your Company, Win a Door Prize, and learn about BTMA!

Calling all Current BTMA members!

This event allows you to promote your company by bringing promotional items and sharing information about your business. Giveaways and door prizes are encouraged!

Examples of past Door Prizes:

• Keeneland Box Seats for six, including six programs and General Admission

• Overnight stay at a local Hotel

• Bourbon Basket

• Gift cards at various restaurants

• Lexington Merchandise

Registration is now closed.

Join us at BD’s Mongolian Grill in September! We will hear from a panel of business owners on Succeeding in Tourism as a Small Business.

Join Eli, Christie, Hemal, and Amy in September to discover their unique journies as entrepreneurs. We hope you discover how to succeed through their combined expertise, management prowess, and heartfelt commitment to promoting tourism in the beautiful Bluegrass region.

Originally from Lexington, Christie Eckerline grew up right around the corner from The Kentucky Castle. She attended Centre College, where she double majored in economics and history. After graduating, she began working in marketing and events at Alltech. She continued to build her events, marketing, and business experience over the next few years before joining the team at The Kentucky Castle.

Christie now uses her events, customer service, and business background to take on the challenge of continuing to build and develop The Kentucky Castle. Opening this Central Kentucky landmark as a working farm, hotel, restaurant, event center and spa has been a dream. She truly enjoys the challenge that each day brings. Serving The Kentucky Castle's guests and helping to make unforgettable memories for them is an absolute joy.

Passionate about creating unforgettable experiences and empowering small businesses, Amy Hudson's diverse career spans event coordination, entrepreneurship, and the vibrant world of tourism. After excelling at the University of Kentucky, earning a B.F.A. in Theatre Design and Technology, Amy's foundation in creativity and innovation was set. Her pivotal role as Event Coordinator at The Thoroughbred Center from 2007 to 2019 launched her into an entrepreneurial journey.

In 2016, Amy's side venture, inspired by her own successful listing on Airbnb, transformed into Purple Door Management LLC, expertly managing multiple properties for diverse owners. Join Amy on this transformative journey, from theatre to thriving entrepreneurship, as she continues to redefine excellence in the realm of unforgettable experiences and property management, ultimately fostering local businesses and creating a lasting impact in the beautiful Bluegrass region.

Registration is closed. We hope to see you in September!

Join us at the Clarion Inn North in August and hear from Leslie Miller of VisitLex!

Leslie is the vice president of marketing, overseeing advertising, branding, marketing, public relations, social media, visitor services, and web strategies. She was formerly vice president of Brand Strategy at Cornett, where she was a member of the executive leadership team and was a brand strategist for a portfolio of businesses emphasizing travel and tourism, including VisitLEX, Keeneland, Lane’s End, and Horse Country.

Registration is Closed

Join us in June at Main Event and learn about this new attraction in Lexington!

Caroline Dollar, sales manager at Main Event, will give us an overview of their facility and what they offer to the various groups, including their stay-to-play program for hoteliers, team-building packages, family-friendly events, and more.

Main Event offers the ultimate shared family fun with hundreds of games and more than 85 games and activities designed to be played together. They have the most fun under one roof with activities such as laser tag, bowling, billiards, gravity ropes, and more!

Their in-center restaurant, Family Kitchen, offers a variety of quality dishes that make the meal as memorable as the fun at Main Event. The new menu puts a playful spin on beloved American classics -- like savory smash burgers with a peanut butter twist, mega-sized pan pizza with giant pepperoni, and decadent desserts in mason jars that are the perfect-sized sweet ending to every meal.  

They are not just an excellent place for families. They also offer the perfect spot for team building, meetings, and banquets. In addition, they have several great corporate packages that include banquet menu options and Team Building packages run by their facilitators, who are sure to bring energy and excitement to your team!

Join us for breakfast at Brevedé and hear from Molly Thompson of LEXtoday!

brev·i·ty/ˈbrevədē/ – shortness of time

"Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom." – Psalm 90:12

In the heart of the bluegrass is a one-of-a-kind specialty coffee shop. It is driven by a passion for community building through handcrafted quality coffee, baked goods, workshops, and events. It's an experience you'll crave over and over again. So come build warm memories with Brevede!

Start your day off right with delicious coffee and pastries while learning about LEXtoday’s newsletter, parent company, and mission.

Itinerary:

• 8:30 a.m. – Arrivals and Registration

• 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. – Networking

• 9:00 a.m – 10:00 a.m. – Introductions/Molly Thompson speaking 

• 10:00 a.m. – Event concludes

About LEXtoday

LEXtoday is all about educating and activating the community. Their daily newsletter brings you the most positive, impactful local news + events — for free. Learn about development projects, community initiatives, and make your weekend plans, all while sipping your morning coffee. Join the conversation. 

Celebrate the coming of warmer weather with us at the Keeneland Race Meet on Wednesday, April 12th! 

Registration is closed.

Your ticket includes the following:

– admission to Keeneland
– a $20 food & beverage voucher
– a BETologist – Teaching Betting 101 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm (invaluable when betting!)

You’ll pick up your ticket and voucher at Will Call, the top of parking row 7, and then head to Elevator B behind the painted jockeys in the Paddock.

We’ll meet you on the second floor starting at 12:30 pm.

Feel free to come and go as your schedule allows!

Our March Meeting offers a unique experience – a mini walking food tour with Bites of the Bluegrass!

Registration is Closed

Please park in the underground parking garage at City Center. You will receive a complimentary parking voucher at the meeting.

We will start our meeting at Salt & Vinegar, the food concept within Ethereal Brewing Public House, and the beautifully restored 19th-century building on West Vine Street. Here, Chef Greg Spaulding's zero-waste scratch kitchen blends Old World cuisine with modern science to create uniquely flavored dishes. Next, Erin Goins, founder of Bites of the Bluegrass, will share more about this concept and some fascinating history behind Downtown Lexington as she takes us on the last leg of her Downtown/Main Street Walking Food Tour with a visit to The Grove for dessert.

In the end, we hope you'll understand that the walking food tours are about more than just the food. You will hear the stories behind the food concepts, Lexington's inclusive and exciting history, and an experience you can confidently recommend to locals and visitors alike.

Erin was raised in Southern Kentucky and attended the University of Kentucky for degrees in Sociology, History, and Education. Like most people who spend any time in this city, she decided that Lexington was the place!

As she and her family have traveled, booking a food tour has become a go-to move. Something about seeing the city and its food through the eyes of a fun-loving local creates, not only a fun afternoon dinner party but also a long-lasting, fond connection!

With a love of Lexington, its food, and meeting new people, she founded Bites of the Bluegrass walking food and drink tours, to connect visitors with Lexington and remind locals that there’s a vacation waiting for them right in their own backyards!

Join us on February 7th to hear from our first speaker of 2023: James Frazier, with the Downtown Lexington Management District.

Sponsored by

James Frazier feels privileged to serve as a Managing Member of McBrayer, a position he has held since 1993. When he joined the firm, there were only five attorneys. Today, McBrayer has nearly 60 attorneys practicing throughout Kentucky as well as in Washington, D.C. Size, demographics, additional offices, and diversity have all transformed this once-small firm into a regional powerhouse. With law offices in Lexington and Louisville, plus a Government Relations office (MML&K Government Solutions) in Frankfort and a presence in Washington, D.C., they are able to better serve their clients on a wide spectrum of matters.

His practice focuses on real estate, bankruptcy, mergers and acquisitions, and general corporate practice with a special emphasis on mineral and energy law. Also, he has extensive experience in coal transactions (including leases, permitting, coal sales contracts, asset purchases, equity interest transactions, transportation agreements, overriding royalty agreements, consulting contracts, and contract mining agreements).

In addition to his law practice, he serves as the Master Commissioner of the Fayette Circuit Court. Prior to being appointed Master Commissioner in 2008, he held the office of Chief Deputy Master Commissioner of the Fayette Circuit Court from 1992-2008.

The Pasta Garage "Italian Café" is designed to provide on-the-go people with fast, casual dining, without sacrificing quality.

The Pasta Garage was created by college friends Lesme Romero and Reinaldo Gonzalez to combine their shared love of Italian street food and the freshest of ingredients. Stop by with a friend, choose your meal, and then watch our chefs make it for you on the spot from our open kitchen. All of our ingredients are carefully sourced, but we are especially proud of our fresh pasta, made in-house by Lexington Pasta. Be sure to check out our gluten-free options and stop by during the summer for our Farmer’s Market Specials!

It’s time for the Annual Holiday Party & Gift Exchange!

If you've never been to a BTMA holiday party or gift exchange before, or if you haven't been in a while, this is undoubtedly a FUN time!

Everyone is welcome to this meeting for the member rate of $40. That is regardless of if you are a current member, former member, or non-member. Bring a friend, bring a wrapped gift, and bring your game face because the gift exchange can get serious.

Here's how it works. Bring a wrapped gift valued at about $25. Everyone that brings a gift gets to play. First, you will draw a number. Then, when your number comes up you will get to choose a gift or steal someone else's gift.

If your gift gets stolen, you get to choose a new gift or steal from someone else. One gift can pass through three hands (unwrapped once and stolen twice) before it is no longer in play. You may also not steal back a gift that was just stolen from you.

For our annual December Gift Exchange, experience the holiday at Elwood!

Step into Elwood, and you step into that unique yet familiar space. A place where you want to stay, set in a community you want to explore. They believe fun is beautiful and invite you to experience the Bluegrass. They’ve thoughtfully curated their hotel with color and details to help you feel part of the Kentucky community. 

From that first greeting to that last drink at the bar, they want you to feel at home. This hotel is more than a landing place, it’s a lifestyle.

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at The Kentucky Castle and leave with a renewed sense of health & wellness!

Registration closes on Wednesday, October 26th!
Pre-registration is required.

Join us at 11:30 am on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, to enjoy a relaxing afternoon at The Kentucky Castle.

Nestled within the sprawling horse farms of Central Kentucky lies a 50-year-old castle on a hill with sweeping views of 110 acres of farmland wherever one might look or explore.

The Kentucky Castle is truly a unique property that draws many to experience its architectural beauty, mystery, and landscape.

Enjoy a delicious lunch while hearing about The Kentucky Castle’s updates and farm expansion.

We will conclude the meeting with a tour of the spa and new farm facilities!

Originally from Lexington, our speaker Christie Eckerline grew up right around the corner from The Kentucky Castle. After graduating with a double major in economics and history from Centre College, she began working in marketing and events at Alltech.

Christie now uses her events, customer service, and business background to take on the challenge of continuing to build and develop The Kentucky Castle. Opening this Central Kentucky landmark as a hotel, restaurant, event center, and spa has been a dream. She truly enjoys the challenge that each day brings. Serving The Kentucky Castle's guests and helping to make unforgettable memories for them is an absolute joy.

We will hear from Brandy Harmon with Breeders’ Cup at Embassy Suites Lexington Green!

Join us at 11:30 am on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, to hear from Brandy Harmon with Breeders’ Cup at Embassy Suites Lexington Green.

Set in a peaceful lakeside area within five minutes of a variety of shops and restaurants, the Embassy Suites is three miles from the University of Kentucky and a 15-minute drive to Keeneland Race Track. Kentucky Horse Park is located 15 miles north. Enjoy their heated outdoor pool and views from the patio. A free cooked-to-order breakfast and evening reception are served daily.

Get an update on the Breeders' Cup World Championships and its impact on Lexington!

Brandy Harmon oversees all ticket sales and operations for the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Brandy, who joined the Breeders’ Cup in 2009, was instrumental in moving the in-house ticketing platform to a customer-facing online ticket and parking purchase program generating millions in revenue each year. From 2016-2019, Brandy was embedded at racetracks in a unique Breeders’ Cup/Host track arrangement to facilitate on-site operations and communications in southern California.

Before joining the Breeders’ Cup team, Brandy, a graduate of the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor of Science in Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering, began her career as Director of Sales & Operations for Dapple Bloodstock and implementing the first online stallion season auction “Season Exchange”. Then as General Manager, oversaw sales and operations at Oakhurst Thoroughbreds, a full-service equine breeding and veterinary facility and Oregon’s leading stallion station, and managed the operations and execution of the annual OTOBA (Oregon Thoroughbred Owners & Breeders Assn.) horse sale every fall hosted at Oakhurst Thoroughbreds.

Brandy is a member of the Thoroughbred Club of America, served on the board of directors for the Oregon TOBA, Race for Education, and is currently on the KY Derby Museum board, Downtown Lex Partnership board, a member of the Louisville Women Leaders organization and San Diego Women Leaders Association. She enjoys sports, loves all animals (especially four-legged ones), and resides in Lexington, KY with her husband.

We will also get updates from Hallie Hardy, the new executive director of Horse Country, Inc.

Hallie Hardy has been named executive director of Horse Country, Inc., replacing Anne Sabatino Hardy who has led the nonprofit since its founding in 2015.

Hallie Hardy, a native of Frankfort, Kentucky, and who is unrelated to the former executive director, brings to Horse Country a wealth of experience ranging from tour intern to client relations and marketing, to nomination sales. Throughout her career, she has focused on broadening her overall knowledge of the Thoroughbred industry and sharpening her long-term desire to market and promote it.

As an undergraduate in the University of Kentucky's Equine Program, she held an internship at WinStar Farm, leading its public and private tours. Following graduation, she joined America's Best Racing (ABR) as one of six brand ambassadors who traveled the country to promote the sport's biggest race days. After ABR, Hardy was accepted to the Irish National Stud Breeding Course and then Godolphin Flying Start.

Since completing Flying Start, Hardy has worked for trainer Graham Motion and again at WinStar Farm. She most recently worked for Godolphin as part of the nomination sales and marketing teams, as well as assisting with several charitable initiatives and Godolphin's tour experience.

Registration closes on Friday, September 30th!
Pre-registration is required.

Getting to know Bluegrass Tourism Marketing Association!

Are you curious about what the Bluegrass Tourism Marketing Association is? BTMA is a partnership of tourism professionals founded to expand awareness of members' businesses through networking opportunities and professional development.

Lexington and the Bluegrass region set the standard for hospitality nationally and internationally. By working together, we continue to grow our businesses and expand our reach, making a fantastic impact in the Bluegrass and worldwide.

Join us on Wednesday, September 7, 2022, for a "Getting to Know BTMA" event at Wise Bird Cider Co. You will have the opportunity to speak with current members about their experience with BTMA and win prizes such as free hotel night stays, restaurant certificates, Lexington merchandise, and more! We would love to share more about BTMA and the networking opportunities it provides in the marketing and tourism industries.

The event will be located at the Wise Bird Cider Co., a family owned and operated business that crafts heritage ciders from Kentucky and regional apples. Delicious light hors d’oeuvres and one drink ticket will be provided to each registered attendee. Check out their amazing ciders here.

Network, Display Your Company, Win a Door Prize, and learn about BTMA!

Calling all Current BTMA members!

This event gives you the opportunity to promote your company by bringing promotional items and share information about your business. Giveaways and door prizes are encouraged!

Speak Peek of the Door Prizes:

• Keeneland Box Seats for 6, including 6 programs and General Admission

• Overnight stay at a local Hotel

• Bourbon Basket

• Gift cards at various restaurants

• Lexington Merchandise

Please Note: This event is on a WEDNESDAY, not the normal event time of Tuesday.

Registration closes on Wednesday, August 31st! Pre-registration is required.

We will hear from Gathan Borden with VisitLEX at J Render’s Southern Table & Bar!

Locally owned and operated since 2012 this Restaurant, Caterer, and Food Truck, J. Render’s Southern Table & Bar offers diners classic BBQ along with other Southern Specialties, such as Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Traditional Burgers, and down-home classics such as Gwyn’s Meatloaf. J.

Render’s also boasts a Full Bar with over 22 Bourbons to choose from, not to mention local Craft Beer, Wine, and Craft Cocktails. Diners can select from a variety of appetizers, interesting salads, numerous specialty sandwiches, Southern specialties, and good old Southern BBQ. All of our meat is smoked on-site, sides, and desserts are made from scratch along with all of our signature sauces. All of this, combined with Patio Dining and Live Music on the weekends, make it the perfect spot for a quick lunch, a night on the town, or a family dinner.

Our speaker, Gathan Borden, will be talking about how VisitLEX uses data to make its marketing decisions and develop creative ideas.

Gathan D. Borden is the Vice President of Marketing for VisitLEX, the Lexington Convention & Visitors Bureau. In this role, he oversees advertising, branding, marketing, public relations, social media, visitor services, and web strategies for the city of Lexington as it relates to travel and tourism.

Gathan is a 15-year veteran of the tourism industry, having spent time at Louisville Tourism in Louisville, KY in various marketing roles, before accepting the role of Vice President of Marketing at VisitLEX in Lexington, KY in July of 2015, where he oversees the Marketing department and the Visitors Center. As a much sought-after industry speaker, he speaks frequently at local, regional, and national tourism conferences across the country on various marketing topics and trends and in 2021 was selected as one of the “Top 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Optimization” by Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI). This national award recognizes high achievers who stand out through their creativity and innovation, cutting-edge campaigns and programs, triumph in challenging situations, and efforts that resulted in dramatic gains.

He received a Bachelor of Business Administration with a double major in Business Management and Business Marketing from the University of Kentucky in 2001, and in May of 2009, he received his Master of Business Administration at Webster University. In July of 2021, he was voted in as the Board President of Horse Country, Inc. which is an organization of horse farms, equine medical clinics, and equine attractions dedicated to sharing the stories of Kentucky’s Horse Country to develop fans of farms and clinics through tourism experiences. He also serves as a board member of the U.S. Travel Association’s Destination Council Board of Advisors, the Kentucky Travel Industry Association, and the American Cancer Society. And given his love for bourbon, he is a founding member of the Lexington-based Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild, which seeks to honor the history of minority’s contributions to the bourbon industry and increase the representation of minority cultures in the spirits industry.

In 2013, Gathan was honored to be a “40 under 40” recipient from Business First of Louisville, given to the top forty leaders under the age of 40 in the city of Louisville, and in that same year, he completed the Certified Hospitality Digital Marketing (CHDM) program through Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI). In 2011 he was recognized as a “Top 40 under 40” recipient by both CONNECT and Rejuvenate magazines, as one of the hospitality industry’s up-and-coming future leaders. He has been featured in the Who’s Who in Black Louisville publication, honoring the city’s professional, community, and civic leaders, and in 2008, he was awarded the “Hot Ten Award” by the American Advertising Federation of Louisville, given annually to the top 10 local advertising professionals under the age of 30 in Louisville. He is a graduate of the Ignite Louisville program at the Leadership Louisville Center, which is a program that prepares the community’s emerging leaders to build a better Louisville, and is a Commissioned Kentucky Colonel.

Please Note: Only 32 spots are available.

Registration closes on Friday, July 29th, at noon! Pre-registration is required.

We will hear from Bryan Dowell with Studio46 Media and tour their home office!

Bryan will explain how to captivate your audience with video marketing and why video is the best solution.

The Studio46 facility includes over 4,000-square-feet of studio space, a green room, edit suites, office space, and much more! They will also give BTMA a tour of their 22,000-square-foot facility.

Bryan Dowell leads a team of creative professionals – including videographers, editors, writers, producers, and FAA licensed UAV/Drone pilots that create compelling content to help businesses and organizations tell their stories.

Bryan began his career with Studio46 Media’s parent company – Davis H. Elliot – in 2005. Throughout his time with the company he has worn many hats – from safety all the way to marketing and communication.

Away from work, Bryan and his wife Amanda are proud parents of two boys – Drew and Jacob – as well as their four-legged child, Daisy. They currently reside in Versailles, Kentucky.

Please Note: Registration closes on Friday, June 3rd, at noon! Pre-registration is required.

We will hear from Allison Lankford with Town Branch Park at the Central Bank Center!

Please Note: Registration closes on Thursday, April 28th, at noon!

IMPORTANT: Please park in the High Street Parking Lot upon arrival. We will be in Pavilion Meeting Room 14.

Central Bank Center is one of the nation’s most storied entertainment and convention destinations. To preserve its unique history and ensure the venue’s relevance for generations to come, a design team comprising NBBJ in Los Angeles and EOP Architects of Lexington has come together to re-envision its future. 

The new $300 million expansion, to be completed in January of 2022, features 100,000 square feet of contemporary exhibit space, 16 meeting rooms, 11,000 square feet of flexible event space, and a 24,300-square-foot ballroom. The expansion also includes many new amenities that will make the center one the most high-tech, user-friendly meeting and event spaces in the region. New sustainability features will also target LEED certification.

The redesign provides a transparent exterior for Rupp Arena and the convention center, with distinctive building identities and entrances. By making activities inside more visible, it encourages passersby to participate and links those inside to the city.

Located in the heart of downtown Lexington—within easy walking distance of over 1,200 hotel rooms; 75 restaurants; numerous theaters, shops, and galleries; the distillery district; and a wide variety of nightlife—the Central Bank Center offers small town charm with big city amenities.

Inside the iconic Rupp Arena—home to the University of Kentucky basketball program—there is seating for up to 20,500 with approximately 50,000 square feet of club space and expanded concourses. Nearby, the historic 900-seat Lexington Opera House, built in 1886, is a jewel-box setting for concerts, touring Broadway shows, or your next meeting or special event. 

With a pedestrian connection to an outdoor park, plaza, and water features, these venues together create a vibrant, lively experience for residents and visitors alike.

Celebrate the coming of warmer weather with us at the Keeneland Race Meet on Wednesday, April 20th! 

Your ticket includes:

– admission to Keeneland ($10 value)
– a $20 food & beverage voucher
– a program ($5 value)
– our own BETologist – Teaching Betting 101 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm (invaluable when you’re betting!)

You’ll pick up your ticket and voucher at Will Call. Then, head to Elevator B (behind the painted jockeys in the Paddock), and we’ll meet you on the second floor starting at 12:30 pm. Feel free to come and go as your schedule allows!

Please note: Pre-registration and pre-payment are required.
We need to give your name to Keeneland by April 15th.

In March, we meet at the home of the Julietta Market to hear from Ashley Smith of Black Soil.

A native of Lexington, KY, Ashley C. Smith graduated from the University of Kentucky in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. She is the Co-founder and COO of Black Soil: Our Better Nature, a statewide agritourism company with a mission of reconnecting Black Kentuckians to their legacy and heritage in agriculture.

Smith has worked for such brands as KentuckyOne Health, Bluegrass Hospitality Group, Community Ventures, NetGain Technologies, Smiley Pete Publishing, The Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center, and Fayette Alliance.

Smith’s other professional involvement, leadership, and accolades include Ethical Redevelopment Salon member under the leadership of Theaster Gates, Secretary for Kentucky State University’s Extension and Research Advisory Council, and 2016 Scholarship Chair for the Bluegrass Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

In addition, her leadership also includes serving on the Management Team for the crave food + music festival and Steering Committee member for the Kentucky Rural Urban Exchange. Her professional portfolio also includes voice-over and Mistress of Ceremonies duties for City of Lexington 2017, 2018, and 2020 Martin Luther King Holiday Celebration, Stage Emcee for 2017 and 2018 crave Lexington food + music festival. She earned an Emmy nomination for KET’s Kentucky Life episode, A Kentucky Christmas, voicing the work of Kentucky native, writer, and poet, Effie Waller Smith. Smith gave a top-rated CreativeMornings Lexington talk, 'Insecure' in June 2020.

Smith and Trevor Claiborn are the proud parents of Caroline and Trevor, Jr.

Julietta Market is a nonprofit public market built to foster opportunity, growth, and connection. It is a place for, by, and about our neighbors.

This 23,000 square foot public market is set in the heart of the historic Southeast Greyhound Building in Lexington, Kentucky. Year-round, the Julietta Market features 60 small business kiosks, 20 pop-up spaces, 7 food stalls, a community art gallery, a shared kitchen, and an event space for cultural and community events.

The purpose of the Julietta Market is to enhance the quality of life within our community and promote continuing and equitable development. We offer an innovative platform for neighborhood entrepreneurs to grow their dreams, for neighbors to come together, and for everyone to be able to see themselves in the changing landscape of this neighborhood. We enable small businesses to grow while minimizing risk by providing affordable rents and opportunities for incremental growth. 

The Julietta Market speaks to the issues of our time, as a transformative avenue for social entrepreneurship, a change agent for capacity building services, a mentor in programming and access to networks and connections, and as a continuation of the community conversation on how equitable access to opportunity informs personal prosperity and social growth.

Due to a water main break on the Malone’s Prime end of the shopping center, our BTMA meeting has moved to the backroom in Malone’s Lansdowne.

The address is 3347 Tates Creek Road.

Join us on February 1st to hear from our first speaker of 2022: Mary Quinn Ramer from VisitLEX.

Mary Quinn Ramer is President of VisitLEX, where she oversees all administrative, marketing, and convention activities for the organization. Mary Quinn brings more than 15 years of tourism, marketing communications, and event planning experience to the organization.

Prior to becoming President, Mary Quinn spent seven years as the Vice President of Marketing at VisitLEX.

During her tenure, she has overseen a successful rebranding effort and launch of the iconic blue horse brand, coordinated all Bureau activities for two international equine events, launched an original culinary tourism initiative, and opened a brand new visitor center in the heart of downtown Lexington.

In addition, Mary Quinn is active with numerous tourism-related organizations, including board membership on Kentucky Travel Industry Association, Equestrian Events International, Keeneland Concours d’Elegance, LexArts, Horse Country LLC, and the McDowell House Museum. She was also a member of the Breeders’ Cup 2015 Host Committee.

Mary Quinn has been fortunate to be involved in many award-winning projects over the years. She is most proud of receiving the Public Relations Society of America’s top honor, the Silver Anvil, in 2001, for her work on the 2000 Vice Presidential Debate at Centre College, and the Kentucky Industry Associations’ Best of Show award for marketing collateral in 2012. In 2015, Mary Quinn received the Lois Mateus Networking Award from the Kentucky Distillers Association and the Bourbon Women organization.

Mary Quinn is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Centre College, and in 2008, she received the Distinguished Young Alumna Award from the College.

Mary Quinn enjoys traveling, running, and working on local historic preservation projects.

The vision of Malone’s Prime Events and Receptions evolved from a love for people and a passion for hospitality. For many years, guests have come to know and love Malone’s. It’s a place where meals and milestones are shared, and guests feel like family.

Malone’s Prime Events & Receptions is Malone’s private dining and event venue, a perfect choice for any occasion. Accommodating parties large and small and offering a variety of room and décor options, lighting, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, and a plethora of delicious menu options, each host is able to create a personal and memorable event for their guests.