The Women in Travel & Hospitality Conference, powered by BLLA (The Boutique & Luxury Lodging Association) and the Travel Industry Executive Women’s Network (TIEWN), drew leaders from across the globe for its most transformative gathering yet on July 17, 2025, in Los Angeles.
The one-day experience, held at a breathtaking luxury boutique hotel reminiscent of Italy, brought together female executives, founders, and rising leaders from every corner of the hospitality and travel ecosystem, from architects and brand specialists to boutique hotel owners and tech innovators. The conference delivered a powerful mix of keynote talks, intimate circles, wellness activations, and networking opportunities designed to uplift, inspire, and connect women in the industry.
A Deeper, More Personal Approach
Unlike other women’s conferences that attract crowds of up to 1,000 attendees, the Women in Travel & Hospitality Conference is intentionally designed to be highly curated and intimate. The smaller setting allows participants to connect on a deeper level, explore both professional and personal growth, and have authentic conversations that go beyond surface-level networking.
Attendees aren’t just there to listen; they’re there to be heard. Through small group dialogues, wellness-infused sessions, and reflective exercises, the event encourages women to delve into the personal side of leadership – from balancing entrepreneurial ambition with life outside of business, to exploring how intuition and creativity shape bold decision-making.
The Power of Community and Connection
Attendees praised the event for its unique approach to leadership and empowerment. “This wasn’t your ordinary industry gathering… we came together for curated conversations about the future, connected with our intuition through breathwork, and chose to collaborate rather than compete,” shared Isabella Skoulis, Co-Founder of tiptik. “As a woman today, this was exactly the kind of creative and innovative gathering I could hope for.”
Sarah Ward-Smith, Principal Client Partner at Tripadvisor, echoed the sentiment: “It was amazing to be in a room with so many knowledgeable, successful, and like-minded women. Truly a wonderful experience, and I’m happy I had the chance to be a part of it.”
A Movement That Continues to Grow
The 2025 event coincided with the official launch of the newly designed TIEWN.com, a central hub for the now 13,000+ global members of the Travel Industry Executive Women’s Network. The new platform reflects the organization’s mission to champion female leadership in hospitality and travel through education, connection, and collaboration.
Frances Kiradjian, Founder & CEO of BLLA and TIEWN, described the energy of the day: “This conference was created to elevate the voice and presence of women in our industry. Seeing this many women connecting deeply, sharing openly, and building each other up shows how powerful we are when we come together.”
Ariela Kiradjian, Co-Founder of TIEWN and COO of BLLA, added: “This isn’t just a conference – it’s a movement. Each attendee leaves empowered to innovate, lead, and transform their corner of the hospitality and travel world.”
Looking Ahead
The Women in Travel & Hospitality Conference has firmly established itself as a must-attend annual event for professionals who believe in shaping a more inclusive, innovative future for hospitality. Register as a member to get more involved and attend virtual events during the year.
To learn more about TIEWN, BLLA, and upcoming events:
