By: Tracey Manailescu
When someone asks me, “Where is your favourite place in the world?”, I immediately say, South Florida. So when BizBash has their yearly conference in Ft. Lauderdale, you can bet Danielle and I are there!
This year they shook it up a little bit and had two unique tracks to choose from. We chose the “Event Innovation” track. Every year there is also a really great trade-show, with tons of relevant vendors, showing off their goods along with many samples. Linen companies, caterers, rental companies, DJ’s, etc.
The opening party was at a super sweet venue, Off the Hookah Lounge. Caterers with awesome samples, open bar, belly dancers, street dancers, a band and shisha sessions with about 25 different types of flavours to choose from; Key Lime, Cake Batter, Strawberry, Margarita, just to name a few were strategically placed around the venue on tables, at the bars and in lounge areas.
Tracey Manailescu at BizBash Ft. Lauderdale opening party.
As you can see from the photo above, attending these events can be tough, but someone’s gotta do it 😉
As usual, we ran into WPIC Alumni from Bahamas. This year it was, Lesley Pinder, of Treisia Eventz (The last time we saw her was in October in Las Vegas, at Wedding MBA.)
I loved this display by Luxe Event Rentals!
Live Art by Julie (Salvador Live!)
Photo by: BrightRoom Body Painting model is from Chad Everett of Event Wow Factor, she is dishing out Lamb Cupcakes from Aaron’s Catering.
Patron Tequila had a make-your- own Margarita station, and this giant wall for tequila tasting (chocolate infused, coffee infused, agave dark, etc.).
Photo by: BrightRoom
Photo by: BrightRoom
We also had an opportunity to get headshots done by BrightRoom at a booth. Which is a great option for people who need new ones!
These are ours…
Our track had 10 speakers give a speedy delivery on topics relevant to weddings or events. There were some great presenters, but a few that I wish had more time to deliver more detailed seminars.
Half time at the Orange Bowl
A panel on Media Secrets
People always ask us, why do you attend so many conferences? Well, each one has a different perspective, great for sourcing new trends, finding inspiration and staying current in the industry. We represent our WPIC Alumni, and there are 4200 of them… Conferences are so important for networking, and learning. That is why even the Government of Canada recognizes their value, and lets you write-off two each year!
*All photos are taken by Tracey Manailescu unless otherwise stated.
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