Today's Hotelier President's Desk

By Laura Lee Blake, ESQ., AAHOA President & CEO Lincoln’s Wisdom for Modern Hoteliers President Abraham Lincoln once declared, “Labor is prior to, and independent of, capital. Capital is only the fruit of labor.” That sentiment is more relevant today than ever. In the hospitality industry, we often focus on the bottom line and return on investment, but we might … [Read more...] about The Backbone of Hospitality: Investing in People

By Laura Lee Blake, ESQ., AAHOA President & CEO In hospitality, we are builders of businesses, communities, and trust. But none of that is possible without strong foundations rooted in safety, regulatory compliance, and the rule of law. These are not just legal obligations – they are the underpinnings of long-term success. President Lincoln famously ordered the … [Read more...] about Building Strong Foundations

By Laura Lee Blake, ESQ., AAHOA President & CEO At AAHOA, we believe that true progress in the hospitality industry is powered by strong, strategic partnerships. Hotel ownership is no longer a solo endeavor. It is a collaborative journey that demands innovation, trust, and forward-thinking alliances. From Suppliers to Strategic Allies Today’s vendors are not just … [Read more...] about Powering Progress Through Partnerships: The Future of Vendor Collaboration

By Laura Lee Blake, ESQ., AAHOA President & CEO Reflecting on AAHOACON25 and Our Unstoppable Future When I walked onto the main stage at AAHOACON25 in New Orleans, I was struck by how far we’ve come. The energy on the trade show floor, the inspiring keynotes, and the packed educational sessions all reminded me that AAHOACON is more than a convention – it’s a … [Read more...] about AAHOA’s Momentum is Stronger Than Ever

By Laura Lee Blake, ESQ., AAHOA President & CEO Each year, AAHOACON brings together the brightest minds in hospitality, and this year, we are doing it in a city that has been at the crossroads of history, commerce, and culture for centuries – New Orleans. There is no place quite like it. From its deep-rooted traditions in hospitality to its role as a hub for business … [Read more...] about AAHOACON25: Where History, Hospitality, and Opportunity Converge in New Orleans