Q1: You’ve been part of Conventa’s journey since the first edition. What does this 18-year milestone mean to you both professionally and personally?
Conventa has been part of my entire professional journey in hospitality, so it’s not just a milestone for the event, but for me as well. Professionally, it represents growth, learning, and long-term relationships. Personally, it reminds me how much this industry has shaped who I am — hospitality really is part of my DNA.
Q2: How has your exhibiting approach evolved since your first Conventa?
In the beginning, the focus was very much on presenting the service we provide. Over time, it shifted toward presenting the experience. Today, it’s less about what we say and more about how people feel when they interact with us. I try to approach every conversation as if I were the buyer myself.
Q3: What keeps you returning to live trade shows in an era dominated by digital tools and platforms?
Human connection. No digital platform can replace the trust that’s built through real conversation and shared moments. Live trade shows create space for honest dialogue and relationships that last well beyond the event.
Q4: In your view, how have destinations or suppliers changed the way they present themselves at exhibitions over the years?
There’s been a clear move from selling capacity to telling a story. Destinations and suppliers are much more conscious about sustainability, authenticity, and uniqueness. Visitors want to buy an experience, not just the product, and that has changed how we all present ourselves.
Q5: What does a “successful” trade show look like to you today? Has that definition changed over time?
Success today isn’t measured by the number of leads collected. It’s all about meaningful conversations, feedback that confirms we’ve made a positive impression and long-lasting partnerships that make future cooperation much easier and pleasant.
Q6: What’s been your key to building strong, long-term partnerships in this industry?
Reliability, consistency and making clients feel valued. Doing what you promise, being present when it matters, and treating partners with the same respect year after year. Trust is built slowly, but it’s what keeps partnerships strong.
Q7: Can you share a moment at a trade show that had a lasting impact on you professionally or emotionally?
There were moments when clients returned to Conventa and Slovenia years later and told me they still remembered our conversation and the warm welcome they received at the hotel. Those moments remind you why you put so much energy into details and why you love doing what you do.
Q8: How do you see the role of live exhibitions evolving in a world of AI, hybrid formats and fast-changing expectations?
Live exhibitions will become even more valuable. Technology can handle efficiency, while live events will focus on emotion, experience, and real connection, where human-to-human interactions remain irreplaceable.
Q9: What does real, meaningful engagement look like for you today, beyond just collecting leads or handing out brochures?
An exhibition is the starting point for me. It opens doors to clear conversations and helps turn first meetings into meaningful partnerships, which grow when you consistently nurture and maintain those relationships over time.
Q10: How has your preparation for a trade show changed compared to 10 or 15 years ago? What do you do differently today?
Preparation today is much more strategic. I focus on understanding who I want to meet and why, and how we can create value for each other. It’s less about quantity and more about quality.
Q11: What one piece of advice would you give to first-time exhibitors?
Listen more than you speak, be open to conversation at every moment, remember that relationships matter more than immediate results, make time for networking events, and, most of all, enjoy your experience.
Q12: What’s the most exciting opportunity you see for exhibitors in the near future?
The real opportunity lies in giving back to the environment, inspiring guests to rethink their habits, and collaborating with other exhibitors to create experiences that feel authentic, sustainable, and memorable. This is another way to demonstrate that Slovenia and its people are truly united in creating the best possible experience for our guests.
Q13: After all these years, what keeps you passionate about showing up not just physically, but with real energy and purpose?
What keeps me passionate about are the people. Seeing partners grow with you over time, being part of a community united by shared values, and knowing we’ve created something memorable year after year is a feeling that never gets old.
Find out more about Rimske Terme here.
