By: Tracey Manailescu
When we heard that BizBash Florida Expo & Awards was back for the 3rd year in a row in South Florida, we jumped on it. Aside from being one of my favourite places in the entire world, BizBash throws a really good conference. We haven’t missed one yet in SF.
This year was the best yet, I must say.
The opening festivities started at China Grill inside of the Hilton Ft. Lauderdale Marina. An open bar, and tons of passed hor d’oeuvres with some great music, started things off right.
The next morning, bright and early, we were at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center for the conference. Registration was very quick and efficient, as always.
We went straight into a seminar that inspired and encouraged us to never give up and keep reaching for success.
The Path To Ultimate Event Career Success
Speaker: David Kliman, CMP, CMM, President, The Kliman Group
Mr. Kliman gave so many great tips about succeeding in the professional world which included many ways to improve yourself and your confidence. Give back & keep learning and growing was the overall theme. I took a full page of notes from this seminar!
My personal favourite was: Keynote: Barton G. Weiss
Then we heard from the amazing keynote speaker, Barton G. Weiss of Barton G. I really, really enjoyed this seminar. The man is a genius! He also kept going back to give credit to his wonderful team, who makes it all possible. Where the heck does he find time to do all of the amazing work he does? The Villa By Barton G., a boutique luxury hotel, restaurant and event space in the former Versace Mansion. Yep! Three restaurants, destination management, events, foundations? If you are not sure who he is, then you’d better find out. The man is a power house!
Tradeshow:
Awesome displays and vendors who were excited to show you their products, and of course some great tasting samples…
Top: Hip Pops Middle: Yolo Photos Bottom: Donut Divas
The Top 100 Events Luncheon was another highlight focusing on, you guessed it, the top 100 events in South Florida in 2011/12
Trends in Catering, Petite, Sweet & Savory
Speakers: Warren Dietel, President & Owner, Puff n’ Stuff Events & Catering; Executive Chef Paul Lorrain, Puff n’ Stuff Events & Catering; Executive Chef Elgin Woodman, A Joy Wallace Catering Production
What a fun way to learn. They gave us samples that were cooked right in front of us, and still provided a ton of information.
We hope to be able to attend next year!
*All photos were taken by myself, Tracey Manailescu or Danielle Andrews Sunkel
Looked like a fantastic conference! Great write up and wonderful pictures!