Graph Expo was full of firsts this year. For this industry and tradeshow vet, I have pretty much seen it all. When I attend shows of this size and calibre I expect certain things, and Graph Expo did not fail to deliver:
Booth silliness – Edward Scissorhands girls, men in cloud suits, the human “Transformer” and more
Product launches – Daily Alliance briefings in the Printerverse (‘nuff said!)
Sustenance – Espresso bars, warm cookies, chocolates, and other caloric goodies
Giveaways – Stuffed Pokémon, alien squeeze toys, gadgets and more
Something going wrong – Nothing like arriving at the booth to find out your large screen monitor shattered, your chairs mangled, and your tools MIA (yeah…THAT happened!)
Fun – Graph Expo’s inaugural welcome reception (long overdue IMHO), reconnecting with partners, friends, and other vendors, and bonding with your team
Perhaps it was the new location in Orlando, but there was a different energy this year. The folks I spoke to certainly felt it. The crowd was looking for information and were prepared to spend quality time with vendors to have their questions answered. Yes, we all know there was a drop in attendance of about 30%. But the conversations were happening. Deals were being signed and visitors were inspired.
I myself was inspired by so many of the industry leaders who were there to share and educate. I was inspired by the amazing women I had the honour of meeting at the #GirlsWhoPrint Day. I was inspired by the conversations happening at the various panels in the #Printerverse. And I was inspired by the future greatness of print.
I had my first press conference LIVE from #GraphExpo at the #Printerverse, hosted by @printmediacentr. While I’ve attended many briefings, written many speeches, and coached many presenters, this was the first time that I was out there…front and centre. Yes, on Monday, October 26th, I launched #AskAvanti, a new social media for members of the print community, in front of the cameras streaming live, in front of the audience sitting in front of me, and in front of my boss and colleagues. So I took a deep breath, drew upon my newfound inspiration and launched #AskAvanti.
I was also inspired by the kinship demonstrated at the show. When one of the batteries to our microphone died, several vendors on the show floor went out of their way to help me locate a replacement (ironically, it was Freeman Services who came through for me). .
I was inspired by the food vendors on the show floor. Now I don’t know if this is an Orlando thing, but the food choices available were really good! Of course there were the staple fast food options (pizza, hot dogs, etc.) but there were also crepes, and BBQ, and salads and gourmet ice cream (just to name a few). Yes, there was real variety, and it was actually possible to make healthy choices at a tradeshow!
Finally, I was inspired by the people…particularly those often overlooked. Folks like the security staff, whose responsibility it is to verify the thousands of people seeking access to the show floor. One gentleman in particular was probably one of the nicest guards I have ever had the pleasure of greeting. He always took the time to smile, wish me a beautiful day, and exhibit true gratitude and pride in the role that he played to ensure we all enjoyed a successful event.
So say what you will about tradeshows or about Graph Expo. I went there expecting the usual. I returned inspired. How about you?