Two exciting events are coming up on the ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ (AGS) calendar. This September, Conclave heads to Orlando, Florida, from September 14–17, where we’re thrilled to welcome hospitality icon Will Guidara as our Wednesday breakfast keynote on September 16.
Before that, Confluence kicks off April 22, bringing together industry experts for a free, half-day virtual event designed to fit the way you work.
Read on for a taste of what’s ahead!
Conclave • September 14–17, 2026
On September 16, Will Guidara, our breakfast keynote, takes the Conclave stage. Will is the former owner of Eleven Madison Park, the restaurant where he built his legacy of Unreasonable Hospitality.
Here is one example of what that means. At the end of every meal, guests are given a small gift: a jar of granola—the kind of alpine comfort food that chef Daniel Humm enjoyed as a child in Zurich. It is a great example of taking that extra step, giving that extra wow, that has made Guidara a legend in hospitality.
Thanks to the New York Times, which recently ran the granola recipe, we are happy to share it with you here.
Eleven Madison Park Granola
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
Yields approximately 6 cups
| Step 1 Heat oven to 300 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, pistachios, coconut, pumpkin seeds, and salt. Step 2 In a small saucepan set over low heat, warm the sugar, syrup, and olive oil until the sugar has just dissolved, then remove from heat. Fold liquids into the mixture of oats, making sure to coat the dry ingredients well. Step 3 Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, then spread the granola over it. Bake until dry and lightly golden, 35–40 minutes, stirring granola a few times along the way. Step 4 Remove granola from the oven and mix in the dried sour cherries. Allow to cool to room temperature before transferring to a storage container. |
Imagine keeping a few jars of this granola on hand as a thank-you for the staff member who stayed late to help out, or for the loyal customer celebrating a milestone you remembered without being reminded. A bride who referred three friends before her wedding day was even over.
It doesn’t have to be granola, nor does it have to be food. A handwritten note. A small wrapped gift. A congratulatory text when you hear good news about a customer getting a promotion or an award, or a sympathy card when a loyal customer loses a loved one.
You already deal in moments that matter. Will Guidara would simply ask: What is the one extra thing that makes someone never forget you?
Click here to learn more about Will Guidara as well as Conclave’s three other dynamic keynotes! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the creative minds who propel today’s businesses forward.
Confluence • April 22, 2026
Mark your calendar: Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 10:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Pacific / 1:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Eastern. Confluence is a virtual half-day event built to help you learn, connect, and stay current—without stepping away from your store or office.
As an AGS member, you can attend at no cost, thanks to the generous support of our Presenting Sponsor, GIA.
The lineup includes four expert-driven sessions:
- Beyond the Prompt: What’s New in AI Design for 2026
Michael Magee, GIA - Communicating Responsibility with Clarity and Credibility
Brandee Dallow, Grandview Klein Diamond Group - Turning Diamond Knowledge into Sales: Free, On-Demand Training with NDC’s Diamond Learning Center
Grace Isley, Natural Diamond Council - Hot Topics in the Jewelry Industry
Moderator: Rob Bates, JCK
Panelists: Joanna Levy, GIA; Abe Sherman, Buyers Intelligence Group; Morgan Waters, Stuller, Inc.; and Sara Yood, Esq., Jewelers Vigilance Committee
You’ll also get bonus sustainability resources and a look at our newest series, “Members Teaching Members,” where AGS members share firsthand insights from their own businesses.