To streamline reader experience and create a more robust online platform for the hospitality industry, content from boutiquedesign.com and Boutique Design (BD) magazine is now accessible online via hospitalitydesign.com under the Boutique + Lifestyle tabs. The change is part of a holistic strategy to better connect and build the hospitality community through the magazines, online, and in person. “While the HD and BD brands boast distinct personalities, contributions, and strengths within the design industry, it made more sense to create one hub for the industry’s latest and greatest—news, products, projects, and interviews—rather than splitting the content between two separate websites,” says Stacy Shoemaker Rauen, senior vice president, Design Group, Emerald, HD and BD’s parent company, adding that two brands will continue their individual magazines and newsletters.
Hospitalitydesign.com will also house each brand’s various event websites, including the two signature trade fairs, HD Expo + Conference and BDNY, as well as the more intimate networking, thinktank, and regional events. “BD and HD have their own distinct events—which will continue as scheduled—and we are excited to improve and evolve as the brands continue to grow,” adds Shoemaker Rauen.
Keisha Byrd
Additionally, effective April 25th, Conference Manager Keisha Byrd, who has been with the BD brand for nearly nine years, will be promoted to Director of Strategic Events, Hospitality Group. Working with brand leadership, she will now oversee the HD and BD portfolio of non-tradeshow events—including HD Summit, HD CitySCENEs, HD NextGen Forum, HD Awards, HD Platinum Circle, BD Forums, Gold Key Awards, BD Match, and Senior Lifestyle Design Match (SLDM)—from a strategic planning, budget management, and day to day perspective. “Keisha has been an integral part in the growth of the BD brand events and this role allows her to help us continue to produce world class events for the hospitality design community,” says Kevin Gaffney, vice president, Design Group, Emerald.
“HD and BD’s events are where the pages of our publications and website come to life,” says Shoemaker Rauen. “The hospitality industry—and our events—are all about relationships, and Keisha not only brings a wealth of skills and experience, but she’s a familiar face to many in the industry.”
For a full calendar of HD and BD events, click here.
