DMC Network brought 120 clients and destination management company leaders to Seattle for its 2026 Exchange. During the four-day program, attendees completed more than 1,000 one-to-one meetings.
Held Sept. 10-13, the invitation-only event combined scheduled meetings with destination experiences across Seattle. The Westin Seattle served as a primary venue. Activities also took place at Seattle Convention Center and other locations throughout the city.
“The success of the Exchange comes from giving people the opportunity to spend meaningful time together,” said Aoife Delaney, managing director of DMC Network. “Clients meet directly with the people who know their destinations, lead their businesses and are personally accountable for the programmes they deliver.”
Seattle becomes part of the program
Event Experience, Visit Seattle, and The Westin Seattle supported the Exchange. Meanwhile, organizers used local activities to introduce attendees to the region.
Guests could choose from glassblowing, sailing, hiking, and visits to Woodinville wineries. Other options included Pike Place Market, the Seattle waterfront, and Pioneer Square.
In addition, evening events took the program beyond traditional meeting spaces. Attendees gathered at Bell Harbor before a closing celebration at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).
“Our aim was not simply to introduce guests to some of Seattle’s best-known places,” said Michelle Couch, co-owner of Event Experience. “We wanted to show how local knowledge, trusted relationships, thoughtful timing and creative programme design can turn a visit into something genuinely memorable.”
Exchange connects DMC leaders with clients
DMC Network designed the Exchange to give clients direct access to owners and leaders of independent destination management companies.
The format paired scheduled meetings with informal opportunities to build relationships. As a result, attendees had time to discuss programs and destinations outside formal appointments.
“Our industry continues to change, but the fundamentals of great destination management remain constant,” Delaney said. “It is about trust, local knowledge, creativity, personal relationships and knowing that there is someone on the ground who genuinely cares about the outcome.”
DMC Network is a member-owned network of independent destination management companies. Its partners serve meetings, events, and incentive travel across North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and the Caribbean. For more information, visit dmcnetwork.com.
Press release submitted by Soaring Worldwide on behalf of DMC Network. Edited by Exhibit City News for clarity, length, and style.
