MPI Pittsburgh

Meet Michael Dominguez 🎤

As the President and CEO of Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), I lead a global sales organization that is a trusted partner for meeting and event professionals seeking the best independent luxury properties and experiences. I hold the Certified Hospitality Sales Executive (CHSE) credential, demonstrating my commitment to excellence and professionalism in the hospitality industry.

With over 30 years of experience in luxury meetings and events, I have a deep understanding of the needs and preferences of our clients and members, as well as the trends and challenges of the market. I am passionate about delivering personalized service and connectivity and empowering our team of nearly 80 professionals across 26 offices worldwide. Under my leadership, ALHI has earned multiple accolades and recognition for its high-quality portfolio and outstanding performance. I am also an active and influential member of several industry associations and initiatives, such as Meetings Mean Business and Meeting Professionals International, where I share my insights and expertise as a speaker, leader, and advocate.

Seats are limited – register now! https://web.cvent.com/event/bfaac5d9-8902-40d4-88a1-28cc8f43dffa/homepage

The future of meetings is changing fast. Are you ready?

Join MPI Pittsburgh at the newly renovated Fairmont Pittsburgh for an insightful morning with industry veteran and award-winning speaker Michael Dominguez.

📅 Septeber 9, 2026
☕ 9:30–11:00 AM | Exclusive Meeting Planner Coffee Chat*
🎤 11:00 AM–1:00 PM | General Session + Lunch

✨ Meeting Planners: The morning starts with an exclusive coffee chat sponsored by Visit Pittsburgh! Come connect with your peers, share perspectives, and get the conversation started before Michael takes the stage. *Additional registration required.

Michael will explore the economic, political, technological, and industry forces shaping hospitality and meetings in 2026 and beyond—and what they mean for the way we plan, negotiate, and do business.

What will the changing economy, technology, global relations, consumer behavior, and hotel environment mean for our industry?

Come find out—and leave better prepared for what's ahead.
https://lnkd.in/eqraxhsu

✨ MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ✨

From running out of coffee at her very first event ☕ to learning that sometimes the best career move is simply saying “yes” before you feel ready — this month’s member spotlight is full of lessons every event professional can relate to.

Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way in the events industry?
A: Always expect the unexpected. I've learned that even when you're prepared, anything can happen. A whole table doesn't show up. The caterers don't bring enough backup food and burn all the salmon. Or you don't realize how many people drink coffee at three in the afternoon. That was my first event ever, and I have never run out of coffee since.

Q: What advice would you give to someone just beginning their journey within our industry?
A: Say yes to things even when you don't feel fully ready. Some of the best experience I gained came from jumping into projects I wasn't sure I could handle yet. You learn the most by doing, not by waiting until you feel qualified.

Q: What’s one myth about events that you'd like to bust?
A: That events are a waste of money. The truth is, people don't remember a spreadsheet or an email blast. They remember a room, a conversation, a moment. That's where relationships get built and decisions get made. Cutting the event doesn't save money. It just costs you the connection.

Sarah, wherever you are… your name badge is waiting. 👀

Until then, consider this your sign to see what MPI Pittsburgh is all about.

Come for the professional development. Stay for the connections, questionable amounts of networking, great Pittsburgh venues, and the people who make this industry what it is.

See you at the next one. 🥂

You'll meet these friendly faces at Swing, Sip & Socialize! ⛳✨

We're excited to have our networking committee helping welcome members, spark conversations, and make introductions throughout the evening.

👋 Michaela Morgan – VP of Professional Development
👋 Stephanie Montavon – VP of Education Events
👋 Ashley Schmid – Director of Event Marketing

Whether you're reconnecting with colleagues, growing your professional network, or attending your first MPI Pittsburgh event, they'll be there to help you feel right at home.

Join us for an evening of networking, great conversations, and a little friendly competition at Five Iron Golf!

📅 Thursday, August 13, 2026
🕓 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 Five Iron Golf
PPG Place 2, Suite 90
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Come swing into meaningful connections, share ideas, and enjoy a fun night with the MPI Pittsburgh community. We can't wait to see you there!

Your voice helps shape the future of MPI Pittsburgh.

If you haven't already, take a few minutes to complete our Member Spotlight Survey! This is your opportunity to:

✨ Share your professional journey
📣 Highlight your accomplishments and expertise
🤝 Introduce yourself to fellow members
💡 Tell us how you'd like to be involved with the chapter

One of the best parts? You can nominate yourself to be featured in an upcoming Member Spotlight! Whether you've recently earned a certification, received a promotion, launched a new business, planned an incredible event, or simply want to connect with more industry professionals, we'd love to celebrate you.

Don't be shy—this is your chance to talk yourself up! Our MPI Pittsburgh community is full of talented professionals, and we want everyone to get to know the people who make our chapter so special.

Complete the survey today and let us help share your story. 💙

⛳ There's still time to register!

Join MPI Pittsburgh next week at Five Iron Golf for an evening of networking, great conversations, and a little friendly competition. Whether you're looking to reconnect with familiar faces, expand your professional network, or meet fellow industry professionals for the first time, this is an event you won't want to miss.

Come swing into meaningful connections, share ideas, and enjoy a fun night with the MPI Pittsburgh community.

🎟️ Register today to reserve your spot—we can't wait to see you there!

New month, new opportunities! 🌟

The August MPI Pittsburgh Chapter Newsletter is here with everything you need to stay connected from upcoming events and chapter news to professional development and industry updates.

Take a few minutes to give it a read....you won't want to miss what's ahead! 📩