Conclave 2026 takes place September 14–17 at the Omni Orlando at ChampionsGate in Orlando, FL. From pre-Conclave activities through the closing President’s Party, it’s packed with events that blend education, community, and a good time.
This year, Conclave features an updated schedule, with pre-events beginning Monday, September 14, and the official kickoff on Tuesday, September 15. Here’s what you can look forward to.
To register, visit ags.org/conclave!
Monday, September 14
New Member Reception | 4:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
If you’re new to AGS, start here. The New Member Reception is a relaxed welcome event where you’ll meet fellow new members, connect with the AGS International Board of Directors, and get to know the AGS team. It’s open to members who joined after April 2024, and a great first step into the Conclave experience. Stick around after—the Mentor Mixer and Guilds Party follow immediately.
Mentor Mixer | 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
The annual Mentor Mixer is one of the best ways to kick off Conclave. Come for the appetizers and hosted bar, stay for the connections. You’ll also get an introduction to the AGS Mentoring Program and how to get involved—whether as a mentor or a mentee. Sponsored by the GIA Alumni Collective.
AGS Guilds Party | 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
The Guilds Party is a Conclave tradition. Guilds are regional member groups that meet throughout the year to learn and connect. At the party, you’ll find out what’s happening in your area (or how to start a group if there isn’t one yet), and see why the “Guildies” always have so much fun together. Sponsored by Jewelers Mutual® Group.
Tuesday, September 15
JFC Rings of Strength Charity 5K | 6:30 a.m.–8:00 a.m.
Start the first full day of Conclave on the move. Jewelers for Children’s (JFC) Rings of Strength 5K returns as part of Conclave, with a walk, jog, or run route in Orlando. Rings of Strength has raised more than $420,000 for JFC, and 2026 marks one of two premier event cities.
Financing Fast Track | 8:30 a.m.–11:15 a.m.
This exclusive session, open to Retail Firm members only (maximum 200 attendees), is a two-hour program with the Wells Fargo Consumer Financing Team. Starting with breakfast, the morning covers practical tactics for getting the most out of the AGS Credit Card Program. Retail businesses that attend the full session are eligible for $1,200 in travel reimbursement per business. You do not need to be enrolled in the AGS Credit Card Program to attend, but registration is first-come, first-served, so don’t wait.
Opening Keynote | 12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Ben Nemtin kicks off Conclave 2026 with a keynote on building resilient, high-performing cultures through purpose, courage, and meaningful connection. Joel Zeff returns as emcee, and you’ll also hear from incoming and outgoing Board leadership, and AGS CEO Katherine Bodoh, RJ. Sponsored by Jewelers Mutual® Group.
Coffee and Dessert Breaks
Each afternoon throughout Conclave, Wells Fargo will sponsor Coffee and Dessert Breaks in the Networking Area—a short window to grab something sweet, refill your coffee, and visit with fellow members and AGS Partners at the networking booths. It’s a small treat that makes a big difference in a packed schedule.
AGS Suppliers’ Showcase and Reception | 6:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Conclave’s best kind of sparkle is happening here. This is your chance to see breathtaking jewelry from AGS supplier members—vetted professionals who share the same commitment to quality and service that defines the Society. Come for the bites and cocktails, and leave inspired by the connections and the pieces you’ll still be talking about the next morning.
Suppliers: Interested in showcasing? Visit ags.org/conclave-2026-events-11-10.
AGS Young Titleholders Trivia Night | 9:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m.
Complete your Tuesday night with some friendly competition. The Young Titleholders Trivia Night tests your knowledge across gemology, history, pop culture, and just about everything in between. It’s one of the most fun events on the Conclave calendar—and everyone is welcome. Sponsored by the GIA Alumni Collective.
Wednesday, September 16
Breakfast and Keynote | 8:15 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
Day Two opens with a buffet breakfast and the presentation of the Sallie Morton and Guild of the Year Awards by Amanda Coleman-Phelps, CGA, Chair of the International Guild Council. Denise Richards, CGA, Chair of the International Conclave Subcommittee, will also share a preview of Conclave 2027. Then it’s time for Will Guidara, author of the New York Times bestselling Unreasonable Hospitality and former co-owner of Eleven Madison Park. Sponsored by Wells Fargo.
Robert M. Shipley Award® Luncheon | 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
The Shipley Luncheon is one of the Society’s most meaningful traditions. Named for AGS founder Robert M. Shipley, who also co-founded GIA, this annual luncheon honors the legacy of a man who spent his life professionalizing the jewelry industry through ethics, education, and credentials. The 2026 recipient of the Robert M. Shipley Award® will be announced at this event. The Award has been given since 1968 and remains the most respected recognition in the Society. Sponsored by GIA.
Free Night | Evening
Wednesday evening is yours. For those who want a group option, a round-trip shuttle to Disney Springs is available for $65 per person—a relaxed night of shopping, dining, and entertainment with the freedom to explore at your own pace. Restaurant reservations are strongly recommended and should be made well in advance. Or, if you’d rather go your own way, Orlando has no shortage of options.
Thursday, September 17
Breakfast and Keynote | 8:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
The final day of Conclave starts with a buffet breakfast, remarks from AGS Board President Bryan Moeller, CGA, and a “State of the AGS” update from CEO Katherine Bodoh, RJ, who will also present the John J. Kennedy Award. Then comes a keynote that’s genuinely unlike any other: Deanna Marsigliese, Pixar character designer and art director, whose credits include Soul, Luca, Inside Out, and most recently Inside Out 2, where she designed the characters Anxiety and Ennui.
Titleholders Luncheon | 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
The Titleholders Luncheon celebrates AGS members who have earned their credentials—a recognition of the commitment to continuing education and ethical business practices that defines the Society. New and milestone credentialed members will be honored, and the Young Titleholder of the Year award will be presented. As a special addition, magician and NYT Crossword constructor David Kwong delivers a 45-minute keynote on illusion, influence, and how perception shapes decision-making.
President’s Party | 7:00 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
There’s no better way to close out Conclave than the President’s Party—an evening of great food, an open bar, and live entertainment. This year’s theme: dress as your favorite Disney or Universal character. It’s a night to get creative, snap photos, and celebrate the community that makes AGS what it is. If past Presidents’ Parties are any indication, you won’t want it to end.
Add-Ons and Excursions
Orlando has plenty to offer beyond the conference rooms, and AGS has made it easy to explore. Several optional excursions are available for attendees who want to see a bit more of the area.
Wild Florida Airboat Adventure | Monday, September 14
A privately curated experience that includes a 60-minute narrated airboat tour on Cypress Lake, time in the Wildlife Park, a gator demonstration with a takeaway photo, and round-trip transportation. Limited to 30 participants. Cost: $235 per person.
Shuttle to Magic Kingdom | Monday, September 14
Round-trip transportation from the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate to Magic Kingdom, with flexible morning departures and afternoon returns. Theme park tickets are not included—discount ticket options are available on the Conclave website. Cost: $85 per person.
Shuttle to EPCOT | Monday, September 14
Same concept as the Magic Kingdom shuttle, but headed to EPCOT. Explore the World Showcase pavilions, attractions, and dining on your own schedule. Tickets not included. Cost: $85 per person.
Evening Kids Camp
Bringing the family? AGS has you covered. The Evening Kids Camp, hosted by Camp Omni at the Omni ChampionsGate, is designed for children ages 5–12 and runs on three evenings during Conclave: Monday (5:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.), Tuesday (6:00 p.m.–9:30 p.m.), and Thursday (6:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.).
Each session includes a kid-friendly dinner from Trevi’s Italian Restaurant, hands-on activity stations (arts and crafts, slime making, friendship bracelets, rock painting, and more), a video game and movie lounge, and supervision by two Camp Omni counselors throughout the evening. Cost is $195 per child, per evening, with a capacity of 15 children per session. Advance registration is required.