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OCT 26-27, 2026

HD NextGen Forum, presented by Hospitality Design magazine, is an invitation-only conference that blends education, inspiration, business, and networking for the next generation of hospitality design leaders. From inspirational keynotes to the influential leaders of the Owners’ Roundtable, our speakers lineup is sure to motivate and educate.

At the event, HD also annually presents the Wave of the Future awards—an honor reserved for designers, architects, owners, and brand executives who we think are young enough to be considered visionary, but tested enough to be considered accomplished. In addition to a spotlight in the magazine, honorees share their experience during an exclusive panel discussion.

Editorial Contacts:

Alissa Ponchione
Editor in Chief
alissa.ponchione@emeraldx.com

Caitlin St John
Managing Editor
caitlin.stjohn@emeraldx.com

Stephanie Chen
Senior Editor
stephanie.chen@emeraldx.com

Sponsorship Inquiries:

Karen Donaghy
Publisher, Hospitality Design
karen.donaghy@emeraldx.com
516.316.5496

Neil Hochman
Key Accounts + NY-NJ-PA-DE-MD-DC-VA-NC-SC
neil.hochman@emeraldx.com
917.434.5663

Additional Inquiries:

Alison Medina
Vice President + Brand Director, Hospitality Design
alison.medina@emeraldx.com

Lizzie Saldana
Conference Manager
elizabeth.saldana@emeraldx.com

Kevin Gaffney
Senior Vice President + General Manager
kevin.gaffney@emeraldx.com
770.291.5446