Unlock Your Exclusive Sponsorship Opportunity

<b>Business</b> Bourbon & Cigars

March 9 - 11, 2025

Charleston, South Carolina

Why Sponsor Business Bourbon & Cigars?

Forge Valuable Connections, Fast

Don’t just showcase your brand; make a lasting impression on discerning decision-makers and industry leaders. Business Bourbon & Cigars is not your typical event; it’s a hub for actionable strategies and high-impact relationships. As a sponsor, you gain quick and meaningful access to a carefully curated audience eager to engage with value-aligned products and services. This isn’t just networking; it’s connecting with purpose, building relationships that matter and driving your business forward.

Unprecedented ROI

Tired of lukewarm leads and superficial interactions? At Business Bourbon & Cigars, handshakes carry more weight than contracts. Your brand doesn’t just gain visibility; it earns advocacy from thought leaders dedicated to mutual growth. Here, every interaction is an opportunity to foster genuine partnerships and unlock new business opportunities. Experience a return on investment that goes beyond the numbers, where the true value lies in the deep, enduring connections you make.

Exclusive Access to Industry Insights

Gain insider access to the latest industry trends and insights shared by top executives and innovators. As a sponsor, you are positioned at the forefront of these conversations, allowing you to stay ahead of the curve and strategically align your brand with emerging market needs.

Elevate Your Brand Presence

Sponsoring Business Bourbon & Cigars elevates your brand to new heights, positioning it alongside the industry’s elite. Benefit from premium brand exposure through event marketing, promotional materials, and on-site visibility. This unique setting ensures your brand is remembered long after the event concludes, creating lasting impressions with key decision-makers.

A Memorable Experience

Beyond business, Business Bourbon & Cigars offers an unparalleled experience that blends luxury with professional growth. From exclusive bourbon tastings to premium cigars, the event provides a relaxed yet sophisticated environment where meaningful connections are made. Sponsors are not just participants but integral to crafting an unforgettable experience that attendees will cherish and talk about.

Key Benefits Tailored for Our Exclusive Sponsor Partners

Unlock Unique Advantages Designed to Elevate Your Brand and Drive Impactful Connections

MASTERMIND SESSIONS

Gain unparalleled visibility for you and your brand by integrating into transformative, high-level business discussions that set the industry standard.

PANEL DISCUSSIONS

Secure a coveted slot in our expert panels, establishing you as an authoritative voice in front of an audience that values genuine expertise.

FUN EXCURSIONS

Secure quality face time with key decision-makers through exclusive excursions designed to etch you and your brand into attendees’ minds.

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Immerse yourself in the real hub of Business Bourbon & Cigars: one-on-one connections with vetted industry leaders, tailored for impactful and enduring relationships.

DINING EXPERIENCES

Your brand elegantly integrated into our breakfast, lunch and dinner experiences, setting the stage for meaningful conversations over exquisite meals and fine bourbon.

What Past Attendees Say

What brought you the most value:

97%
Networking Opportunities
93%
Mastermind Sessions

Would you recommend this event:

100%
Yes

How valuable was this event for you:

97%
Exceeded Expectations
92%
Forged Connections that Will Benefit My Business

This is the best conference I've ever been to. Where do the leaders go to grow themselves? That's right here!

April Simmons

This is by far THE BEST business conference.

Ed Roberts

Business Bourbon & Cigars is unlike anything I've participated in - take some of the brightest and most successful leaders masterminding today's biggest challenges, add fun excursions and an overall sense of camaraderie, and you end up with one amazing event! Now if we can just add white wine somewhere in the title, I'm in for life.

Laurie Halter

The best, brain storming, forward thinking, relationship building event!

Arnold Gacita

This event was 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Scott Joseph & Sandy Cerami!! Thank you both for everything you do for our industry!! 👊

Brian Kramer

Throughout my 30 plus years in business, I have never been to a conference like yours. It was amazing and so uplifting. I met some of the most amazing professionals in the business. Great job!

Chuck Kramer

If your intention is to go somewhere and make a significant impact on your business… this is it!. I've been in business for forty years and I've never seen an event with this much engagement and fun.

David Spisak

Hands down the BEST Mastermind event that I ever attended. This is a MUST ATTEND event for anyone wanting to become a better leader!

Michael Porro

An event like no other and a privilege to be apart of the Best Business Conference! Letting all walls down to learn, innovate, and bring it home to better our teams! We appreciate all the work you and your team put into making Business Bourbon and Cigars one of a kind for us! See you in September!!!

Natasha Fay Cox

The people in this room are probably as high caliber as I've seen at a conference.

Patrick Abad

The real work afterwards is when you take those people in your mastermind group and then make them lifelong 'speed dials' that help you through your challenges after you leave the conference. I can attest to meeting new friends and colleagues after this event that I have for life!

Squire Pettis

All in.....great event and not to be missed!

Tully Williams

This was a group of elite business leaders doing mastermind sessions with only one focus - how to innovate the customer experience to positively amaze the consumer. I watched Sandy P Cerami and Scott Joseph lead all of us in incredible discussion that brought out the creativity of everyone in the room. So grateful to have participated and most of all to have learned from a group of great people. And, yes the environment was incredible, the bourbon over the top and everyone said the cigars were great too!

David O’Brien

If there is a word to describe how I feel about being here, it would be INSPIRATION!

Hugh Palmer

Agenda & Schedule

Sunday 3.9.25

Arrival, Check-In, and Welcome Reception

  1. 3:00 pm
    Check-In at Hotel Bennett
  2. 6:00 pm
    Welcome Reception: An Evening of Connection and Culinary Delights

Monday 3.10.25

Leadership Retreat

  1. 7:00 am
    Morning Connections: Networking Breakfast Buffet
  2. 7:45 am
    Opening Conversations
  3. 8:30 am
    Mastermind 1: Harnessing Innovation & Building Resilient Teams
  4. 10:15 am
    Break
  5. 10:30 am
    Panel Discussion: Innovation & Building Resilient Teams - Amplified by David Spisak
  6. 11:15 am
    Tax-Efficient Wealth Building: Unlocking Hidden Opportunities w/ Claudio Gambin
  7. 12:00 pm
    Enhanced Networking Lunch 90-Minutes
  8. 1:30 pm
    Expert Speaker Announced Soon
  9. 2:15 pm
    Scaling Success: Me Plus Ultra Live Hot Seat
  10. 3:15 pm
    Break
  11. 3:30 pm
    Round Tables & Workshops
  12. 5:30 pm
    Enchanting Evening at the William Aiken House

Tuesday 3.11.25

Leadership Retreat

  1. 7:30 am
    Morning Connections: Networking Breakfast Buffet
  2. 8:15 am
    Opening Conversations
  3. 8:30 am
    Mastermind 2: Unlocking Growth Through Strategic Collaboration
  4. 10:15 am
    Break
  5. 10:30 am
    Panel Discussion: Growth Through Strategic Collaboration - Amplified by David Spisak
  6. 11:15 am
    Expert Speaker Announced Soon
  7. 12:00 pm
    Enhanced Networking Lunch 90-Minutes
  8. 1:30 pm
    Beyond the Ultimate: A Culmination & Horizon
  9. 2:30 pm
    Round Tables & Workshops
  10. 4:30 pm
    More Networking Activities and Excursions Coming Soon!

Sponsor Partnership Levels

What’s Included Silver Gold Diamond
$6,997 $14,997 $24,997
Number of reps (additional seats can be purchased for $1,499 – 50% off) 1 2 3
Advertisement in Program Guide
Email blast to 20,000+ Business Leaders
Exclusive Social Media Posts
Logo on Website with Hyperlink to Your Website
Provide Swag for Complimentary Gift Bags
Event representative(s) who attend the event receive full access to the Me Plus Ultra membership for 6-months 1 2 3
Full attendee contact information
Key Takeaways Workbook
Company Booth (Max Size 47″x81″)
Sit on Panel Discussions 1 2
Live Interview streamed to LinkedIn, Facebook & YouTube
Brand Signage for Breakfast, Lunch and/or Excursion
Brand Signage at Dinner w/Signature Cocktail and Toast
Welcome Reception Signage w/Signature Cocktail Toast

Sponsor Now

Hosts & Moderators

  • Scott Joseph
    Scott Joseph
    Founder of Me Plus Ultra
  • Sandy Cerami
    Sandy Cerami
    Chief Solutionist and Leadership Consultant
  • Laurie Halter
    Laurie Halter
    Owner of Charisma! Communications
  • David Spisak
    David Spisak
    Founder & CEO of Disruptive Growth Solutions

Key Sessions

Amplifying Mastermind Breakthroughs

Harnessing Insights for Exponential Business Growth

David Spisak, a luminary in the business community, steps in to amplify and expand on the insights derived from each mastermind session at the Business Bourbon & Cigars leadership retreat. With his unparalleled experience and a keen eye for innovation, David will share his opinions, suggestions, and advice, adding depth and practicality to the breakthrough ideas generated in the mastermind groups.

David’s journey in the business world is nothing short of inspiring. He is the Founder and former President/CEO of ReverseRisk, a revolutionary web-based analytics program designed to optimize dealership operations. Launched in 2008 and later sold to Reynolds and Reynolds in 2016, ReverseRisk reflects David’s foresight in leveraging technology for operational excellence.

His 27 years of hands-on experience in retail automotive management include transforming single-point stores and large groups into highly profitable ventures. Notably, under his leadership, Smythe European, a Mercedes-Benz dealership, recorded an astounding $23.7 million in net profit in a single year—a national record. His accomplishments extend beyond profitability, achieving industry benchmarks like an exceptionally low 3% employee turnover, #1 ranking in fixed operations gross profit, and top-tier performance in used cars and F&I.

David’s tenure at AutoNation further solidifies his expertise, where he managed a colossal $2.3 billion, 35-store region with over 3,500 associates. His leadership prowess led this region to become the highest performing market in the country, earning AutoNation’s top honor.

In his session following the mastermind breakout groups, David will draw upon his extensive front-line experience and interactions with diverse dealership groups. He will provide actionable insights on current business dynamics, effective strategies for future readiness, and principles for achieving sustainable success in any economic climate.

Attendees will benefit immensely from David’s wealth of knowledge, gaining a unique perspective on practical applications of mastermind session outcomes. His ability to translate complex ideas into actionable strategies makes him an invaluable asset to the retreat, ensuring every participant leaves with enriched understanding and tools for transformative leadership.

Led By: David Spisak

MASTERMIND 1: HARNESSING INNOVATION AND BUILDING RESILIENT TEAMS

STRATEGIES FOR LEADING CHANGE AND ADAPTING TO MARKET SHIFTS

Elevate your leadership capabilities by diving into the essential practices of fostering innovation and adaptability within your organization. This mastermind session is designed to provide you with the tools and insights needed to lead effectively in a rapidly changing business landscape.

Discover how to cultivate a culture that embraces change and drives continuous improvement. Engage in dynamic discussions about innovative strategies for overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in a constantly evolving market. Learn from seasoned leaders and industry experts who have successfully navigated their own transformation journeys and built resilient teams capable of thriving amidst uncertainty.

Why Attend?

  • Cultivate Innovation: Explore methods to inspire creativity and encourage innovative thinking within your organization.
  • Adapt to Change: Learn how to build a culture that is agile and responsive to market shifts and emerging challenges.
  • Lead with Confidence: Gain practical insights and strategies for leading your team through change and driving sustainable growth.
  • Connect with Experts: Network with visionary leaders and peers who are committed to leading with adaptability and innovation.

This session will equip you with the strategies and mindset needed to foster a forward-thinking culture and lead your organization through periods of change and growth. Don’t miss the opportunity to refine your leadership skills and position your organization for long-term success in a dynamic business environment.

Led By: Arnold Gacita

Tax-Efficient Wealth Building: Unlocking Hidden Opportunities

Maximize Your Wealth, Minimize Taxes: Expert Strategies for Business Leaders

Join financial expert Claudio Gambin for a comprehensive session on tax-efficient wealth building designed specifically for business leaders. Learn how to identify hidden opportunities within your financial planning to optimize wealth accumulation and minimize tax liabilities.

Whether you’re driving growth, planning for succession, or focused on securing your personal financial future, this session will provide actionable insights to enhance your financial strategy. Equip yourself with the knowledge to protect and expand your wealth while navigating the complexities of taxation.

Led By: Claudio Gambin

Scaling Success

Me Plus Ultra Live Hot Seat

Immerse yourself in a dynamic live session where real business challenges are dissected and solved on the spot. In this unique interactive forum, you’ll witness the power of collective intelligence as our audience, composed of top-tier entrepreneurs and executives, offers practical, experience-driven advice. This is your chance to gain diverse perspectives on scaling your business, ensuring that growth is handled with precision and strategic foresight. Whether you’re in the Hot Seat or in the audience, you’ll walk away with valuable insights into business expansion that respects the integrity of your original vision while pushing boundaries for continued success.

Led By: Kasey Kohtala

MASTERMIND 2: UNLOCKING GROWTH THROUGH STRATEGIC COLLABORATION

MASTER THE BLUEPRINT FOR BUILDING WINNING ALLIANCES

Step into the world of high-impact strategic alliances with our groundbreaking session, “Building Strategic Alliances for Growth,” and discover how to unlock the full potential of collaborative relationships. This session will guide you through the art and science of forging partnerships that not only fuel innovation but also create exponential growth for your business.

Why You Must Attend:

  • Master the Art of Partner Selection: Strategically identify and engage with partners who possess complementary strengths and can accelerate your business objectives. Uncover the secrets to finding those rare, high-value alliances that can transform your business landscape.
  • Negotiate with Precision and Power: Delve into the techniques of effective negotiation to craft agreements that are not just beneficial, but revolutionary. Understand how to structure deals that provide extraordinary value and set the stage for sustained mutual success.
  • Capitalize on Partner Strengths: Uncover how to leverage the unique assets and capabilities of your strategic alliances to amplify your business impact. Integrate their strengths into your growth strategy seamlessly and powerfully.
  • Expand Your Market Reach: Explore proven methods to use strategic alliances as a springboard to penetrate new markets and demographics. Discover how to align with partners who can open new doors and deliver access to untapped revenue streams.
  • Implement Strategies Instantly: Leave equipped with actionable strategies and real-world tactics that you can deploy immediately. Discover practical tools and insights to turn these concepts into tangible results from day one.

This session is your gateway to mastering the craft of strategic alliances. Embrace the opportunity to learn from some of the best in business and take home actionable strategies that will elevate your partnership game and propel your growth trajectory. 

Don’t miss out on this chance to harness the power of strategic alliances to achieve unparalleled success.

Led By: John Traver

Stay Tuned: More Expert Sessions to Be Announced Soon!

Unlock More Value

We’re preparing to unveil a lineup of additional expert-led sessions designed to deliver practical strategies and insights. Keep an eye out—details and schedules will be released shortly!

Networking Opportunities

Welcome Reception

An Evening of Connection and Culinary Delights

Begin your Business Bourbon & Cigars journey at our Welcome Reception featuring Heavy Hors d’oeuvres & Cocktails. This is more than just an icebreaker—it’s your initial foray into a network of high-caliber entrepreneurs. Enjoy well-crafted appetizers and cocktails on the Hotel Bennett rooftop as you make those crucial first connections.

No aimless mingling here; every interaction sets the stage for the transformative mastermind sessions to follow. Consider this your first opportunity to identify potential allies in the business challenges you’re about to tackle. This isn’t just a reception—it’s the starting line. Don’t miss it.

Morning Connections: Networking Breakfast Buffets

Kickstart Your Day with Conversations and a Hearty Breakfast

Kickstart your day at the Business Bourbon & Cigars leadership retreat with our Networking Breakfast Buffets. These morning gatherings, scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, offer more than just a sumptuous selection of breakfast favorites. They provide a unique opportunity to connect and engage with fellow leaders and entrepreneurs in a relaxed, informal setting.

As you savor a variety of delectable breakfast options, you’ll have the chance to spark conversations, exchange ideas, and build relationships that could shape the future of your business. These breakfasts are designed to fuel both your body and your professional network, setting the tone for a day of learning, collaboration, and growth.

Enhanced Networking Lunches

Maximize Your Mid-day

Embrace the new extended lunch break at our Networking Lunches, thoughtfully designed to cater to your multi-faceted retreat experience. With an additional half hour, you have the freedom to indulge in longer conversations, explore new business avenues with fellow attendees, catch up on critical communications, or even host a virtual check-in with your team or prospective clients. This is your time to recharge, connect, and multitask in the company of peers, all while enjoying a selection of exquisite cuisine.

These lunches aren’t just a pause—they’re a valuable extension of your Business Bourbon & Cigars experience, enabling you to balance nourishment with productivity.

Enchanting Evening at the William Aiken House

A Night of Elegance, Connection, and Discovery

Join us for a memorable evening at the historic William Aiken House, an exquisite venue that captures the charm and sophistication of Charleston’s rich heritage. This enchanting 1807 mansion will serve as the backdrop for a night of connection, networking, and relaxation among fellow attendees.

As you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by the breathtaking grounds, featuring a magnificent two-century-old magnolia tree surrounded by manicured lawns and sunlit courtyards. The elegant pergolas and Gothic-style Carriage House provide a captivating atmosphere for our gathering.

Throughout the evening, you’ll have the chance to explore the beautifully appointed ballrooms and formal dining spaces, adorned with museum-caliber artwork and antiques. Enjoy casual conversations as you unwind and connect with like-minded professionals who share your passion for innovation and leadership.

For those interested in unique experiences, you can participate in a curated tasting of rare bourbons, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore different flavors and perhaps find something new to enjoy. Additionally, a skilled cigar roller will be on hand to showcase the art of cigar rolling, offering a fun and interactive element to the evening for those who wish to learn more about this tradition.

While the focus of the evening is on connection and enjoyment, we encourage the organic exchange of insights and ideas that may arise from the discussions you’ve had during the retreat. This ambiance creates the perfect backdrop for deepening relationships and fostering new ones.

The William Aiken House combines history and elegance, making this evening a highlight of the Business Bourbon & Cigars leadership retreat. Whether reconnecting with familiar faces or meeting new acquaintances, this enchanting night promises to leave a lasting impression.

Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to enhance your retreat experience. If you’re already registered, prepare for an evening of sophistication and camaraderie. If you haven’t signed up yet, let this enchanting night at the William Aiken House be the reason you join us. Experience the perfect setting for connection and inspiration!

More Networking Activities and Excursions Coming Soon!

Stay Tuned

We’re planning additional opportunities for you to connect, collaborate, and explore.

Details on upcoming networking events and excursions will be shared soon – get ready for unforgettable experiences!

Frequently Asked Questions for Potential Sponsor Partners

  • Will there be time during the event to communicate with my office team or clients back home?
    Yes, we understand the importance of staying connected with your team or clients while you're away. Our schedule includes 90-minute networking lunches, giving you time to handle calls, emails, or even Zoom meetings. We also have scheduled breaks throughout the day for quick communication. However, during mastermind sessions, it's essential to remain fully engaged and present. Your participation is crucial not just for your own growth but for the success of the entire group, as the mastermind process relies on everyone’s input.
  • What is Business Bourbon & Cigars?
    Business Bourbon & Cigars is the flagship event of Me Plus Ultra. It’s an exclusive event, bringing together visionaries, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs for transformative discussions, strategic masterminding, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
  • When and where is the event?
    The event will be held from Sunday, March 9th through Tuesday, March 11th, 2025, at the Hotel Bennett in Charleston, South Carolina.
  • Who attends this event?
    This event is an assembly of hand-selected industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers who are not just content with the status quo but are keen on defining what comes next.
  • How are sponsors selected?
    Sponsor Partners are carefully selected and invited to ensure alignment with the event's premium standard and Me Plus Ultra's ethos.
  • What sponsorship levels are available?
    We offer three distinct sponsorship levels: Diamond, Gold, and Silver.
  • What does each sponsorship level include?
    Details vary by level and are provided above.
  • Are sponsorships exclusive?
    Yes, sponsorship opportunities are limited, and there are no competing sponsors within each industry.
  • What type of visibility can I expect as a sponsor?
    Sponsors receive unparalleled exposure through various mediums such as event signage, panel participation, and dedicated sessions, depending on the sponsorship level.
  • Is there an application process?
    There is no application process. Sponsor Partners are invite-only and/or referred in by Me Plus Ultra members, emphasizing exclusivity and commitment to quality.
  • What is the cost of sponsorship?
    Specific pricing details are shared above.
  • What is the payment schedule?
    Full payment is required upon registration and can be made via credit card or by check within 10 days of registration.
  • Is my sponsorship tax-deductible?
    Please consult your tax advisor for specifics related to your situation.
  • What is the cancellation policy?
    Due to the exclusive nature of this event, sponsorships are non-refundable.
  • Will I get a list of attendees?
    Yes, all levels are provided a list of attendees to maximize your networking efforts.
  • Can I bring additional team members?
    Silver Sponsors include just one company representative, while Gold Sponsors include 2, and Diamond include 3. Additional seats can be purchased for $1,499 (50% off).
  • Are there opportunities for product placements?
    You are welcome to provide any sales collateral that we will place in each attendee’s complimentary swag bag. Most Sponsor Partners provide this over and above their swag gift.
  • Will there be speaking opportunities?
    Business Bourbon & Cigars doesn't follow the standard speaking format. However, sponsors have the unique opportunity to engage with attendees through rotating mastermind breakout sessions. In addition, based on your sponsorship level, you may also be featured in panel discussions. These settings allow you to intimately interact with attendees, effectively showcasing your authority, expertise, and credibility.
  • Will there be post-event visibility for sponsors?
    Sponsors receive post-event recognition through various channels, including social media and the Me Plus Ultra blog.
  • Will there be a post-event report?
    Following the event, sponsors will receive a data-rich report that delves into key performance indicators like impact, reach, and ROI. Additionally, we'll share consolidated summaries from each breakout session to offer valuable insights.
  • How do I become a sponsor for the next leadership retreat?
    Due to the high demand and limited spots, priority is given to this year's sponsors for future events.
About the Venue

Hotel Bennett Charleston

Experience the Venue