So what’s in Arkansas, you ask?

A lot! Let me tell you, never in my life did I think I’d be booking a trip to Arkansas. Of all the states in the U.S., Arkansas had never really crossed my mind. Apparently, I’m not alone in this, according to Michelle Dearing, License Partner of Engel & Völkers shop NWA in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Michelle and I first met at an Engel & Völkers Leadership Summit in Québec City, where we shared an absolutely dreamy dinner with other leaders, including her Arkansas business partner, Ace Rouse. She shared her vision for what she calls the Unconventional Convention, an event designed to showcase the magic of Northwest Arkansas—a place many people overlook.

Through innovation, creativity, and a love for her community, Michelle has used her event to turn Arkansas into a destination worth experiencing. The Walton family (yes, the Walmart Waltons) has heavily invested in the area, helping it flourish through initiatives that combine art, business, and outdoor living.  Thanks to our love for the E&V CRM, we got an invite to be part of the Unconventional Convention by offering a CRM Workshop. SCORE! 

On our first night at the Unconventional Convention, we enjoyed a meet and greet with incredible views at the Momentary.  A decomissioned cheese factory turned art hub for the Bentonville community. Later, Aaron and I dined with Michelle Dearing and several other E&V shop owners at The Preacher’s Son, led by Executive Chef Neal Gray. This beautifully restored historic church near Bentonville City Square offers sustainably-sourced cuisine, an extensive wine list. 

One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, a true gem in Bentonville. This breathtaking museum houses masterpieces like Norman Rockwell's Rosie the Riveter and Georgia O’Keeffe’s Jimson Weed/White Flower No. 1.

We also dined at Conifer, where the chef and owner, Matthew Cooper, personally greeted us and shared his passion for creating a true farm-to-table experience. The chef served a dessert masterpiece called Scorched Alaska, paired it with the delicate flavors of Blue Oolong tea, and transformed Halibut into a dream of a dish and so much more deliciousness.

Mornings started with yoga at the Ledger, a 230,000 square foot revolutionary workspace and community activites hub right across the street from Michelle's Bentonville shop.  It is the first-ever bikeable building!  Bentonville itself felt like a love letter to mid-century Americana—cozy, welcoming, and brimming with nostalgia. It’s also the unofficial capital of outdoor adventure, offering world-class mountain biking, hiking trails, and plenty of nature-filled activities.

My only regret? Not having more time to explore all Arkansas has to offer.

Our Engel & Völkers network takes us places—not just geographically, but emotionally and professionally. The people we meet through this brand share a desire for excellence and a commitment to growth and collaboration. These connections enrich our lives in ways that go far beyond business. Events like the Unconventional Convention remind me why I chose Engel & Völkers and why I’m so proud to be part of this extraordinary network.