AEX Convention Services, a nationally recognized General Services Contractor (GSC) and leader in immersive event environments, was recently featured on the Six Degrees of Associations podcast, presented by Big Red M. Kevin Belanger, EVP of Sales & Account Management, and Aaron Horowitz, National Sales Manager, joined host Lucas McCann to talk about how associations can maximize the impact of every square foot and sponsor dollar through strategic design and true partnership. 

A significant focus of the conversation was strategic partnerships and executive engagement, a hallmark of the AEX approach. Kevin explained that every event is assigned an “executive captain” from AEX leadership, ensuring high-level involvement in strategy discussions and planning. This model allows AEX to sit alongside associations, listen to their challenges, and “develop a customized solution to overcome whatever that challenge may be.” 

The episode also highlighted AEX’s innovative SpaceScapes™ approach, in which events are designed as immersive environments rather than simple floor plans. Kevin and Aaron shared examples of a tournament-style mini golf activation to keep attendees engaged through the final day, as well as a speakeasy experience tailored to an audience that values premium lifestyle moments. Aaron summarized the mindset as “sitting with organizations to ideate, not just being order takers,” and reverse-engineering experiences based on attendee demographics and goals. 

“Every square foot should have a purpose,” Belanger noted. “When we design events through a SpaceScapes™ lens, we’re thinking beyond floor plans and asking: How does this space create connection, movement, and value?  

Throughout the discussion, Kevin and Aaron emphasized that associations need more than traditional show services-they need partners who listen, adapt, and bring fresh ideas backed by deep industry experience. By pairing a boutique mindset with big-show power, AEX delivers just that. Customized service, intentional design, and hands-on executive support that help associations build events attendees want to return to year after year.  

We’re proud of Kevin and Aaron for showcasing the expertise, creativity, and client-first mindset that drives AEX forward. Their contribution to Six Degrees of Associations reflects the momentum and passion of our team as we continue to shape meaningful, value-driven experiences for associations nationwide. 

About AEX Convention Services
For over half a century, AEX Convention Services has set the standard of excellence in general service contracting. From its origins as a family-owned business at the iconic New York Coliseum to serving events nationwide, AEX has built a reputation for its ‘Personal Advantage’ – a commitment to personalized care, uncompromising quality, and creative solutions.

Today, AEX leads the industry with its innovative SpaceScapes™ approach, crafting immersive environments that blend physical layouts, atmospheric elements, and experiential components to elevate events of all complexities and sizes. By focusing on creativity, precision, and client-first service, AEX transforms ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences.

Learn more at aexservices.com and follow us at AEX Convention Services.