FuneralVision.com will host “The Innovation Invitational: Where Creativity Meets Tradition” on Thursday, May 27, 2027, at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, Maryland.
The full-day event is designed for funeral home owners, funeral directors, crematory professionals, and industry suppliers. The program focuses on operational strategies, modern technology, and practical business growth while maintaining traditional care standards for families.
More details are available at www.FuneralGolf.com and via the Events Tab on FuneralVision.com.
Event Overview and Purpose
“Funeral service has a rich tradition of helping families honor the lives of those they love, but that doesn’t mean we should stop looking for better ways to serve them,” said Thomas Parmalee, founder and CEO of FuneralVision.com. “The Innovation Invitational is about bringing together people who are willing to challenge conventional thinking, share ideas and discover new opportunities for their businesses. We want attendees to leave with practical strategies they can put to work when they return home.”
Speaker Lineup and Topics
The conference sessions will cover key trends shaping the deathcare sector, including digital marketing, artificial intelligence, sustainable funeral options, and business expansion strategies.
Featured speakers and presentations include:
- Welton Hong, founder and CEO of Ring Ring Marketing, presenting on digital marketing strategies.
- Matthew Bailey, owner of Connecticut Life Tributes, speaking on technology applications in funeral service.
- Landon Bickley, vice president of customer experience at Tukios, covering practical uses of artificial intelligence.
- Lily Buerkle, founder of Willow Green Funerals, discussing green deathcare and service personalization.
- Representatives from Carriage Services, delivering a presentation on strategic growth and innovation.
Additional sessions will focus on preneed planning strategies and identifying new business opportunities while maintaining core professional values.
Location and Venue Amenities
Turf Valley Resort offers guest accommodations, dining options, conference facilities, and two private 18-hole golf courses. Attendees can access complimentary Wi-Fi across the property, an indoor heated pool and whirlpool, saunas, a fitness center, pickleball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and nature trails. Onsite dining includes Alexandra’s American Fusion, the Fairway Lounge, and in-room dining.
Event attendees can also book appointments at the resort’s Day Spa by calling 410-203-2755. Mentioning “FuneralVision” during booking provides a 10% discount on individual spa treatments.
Optional Golf Outing
Attendees can schedule optional golf outings on the resort’s Original Course or Hialeah Course. A virtual tour of the courses is available on the Turf Valley virtual tour page.
Hotel guests can reserve tee times up to six months in advance by calling 410-465-1500, extension 3. Each registered hotel guest can host up to three additional golfers per day. Group and guest golf rates are $110 per person Monday through Thursday, and $125 per person Friday through Sunday. The fee includes green fees, carts, range balls, bag service, scoring, and a Pro Shop gift certificate.
Cancellations made at least 10 days before the tee time incur no penalty; late cancellations or no-shows will be charged. Turf Valley requires soft spikes and standard collared golf attire.
Pricing, Registration, and Hotel Accommodations
Early-bird registration is $219 per attendee through March 31, 2027, after which the regular rate increases to $349.
Negotiated hotel room rates are available at $151 per night. Attendees can reserve rooms and register for the event directly at www.FuneralGolf.com.
Event Sponsors
The Innovation Invitational is sponsored by Platinum sponsors Tukios and Carriage Services, along with Gold sponsors Homesteaders Life Company and Ring Ring Marketing. Companies interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact Thomas Parmalee directly.

