MIXING ENDURING FAVORITES with enticing debuts is what The Special Event is all about. The 2003 show, coming to Orlando, Fla., Jan. 8-11, promises a host of inspiring new additions to its core lineup of essential seminars and events.
BIRTHDAY BASH
A first-time event to celebrate a longtime dedication to special events, the Special Events Magazine 20th Anniversary Celebration honors the evolution of an industry. Slated for Sat., Jan. 11, On the trade show floor of the Orange County Convention Center, the event is Special Events Magazine's thank-you to our valued readers and advertisers.
The anniversary celebration is designed to give show-goers an opportunity to revisit the milestones marking the growth of the industry's most vital business resource, including the creation of a top-rated trade show 17 years ago and the launch of the Gala Awards 16 years ago. Also included will be the announcement of the “Top Event Professional” award.
While one event professional will be selected for top honors, every anniversary celebration attendee has the chance to win a prize package valued at $8,000 — including two nights in a 1,900-square-foot, three-bedroom suite and limousine transportation — donated by Destinations by Marriott/Orlando World Center Marriott.
FLOOR PLAY
The Special Event 2003 brings two more fun-for-all features to the exhibit hall floor.
The Best Booth Awards competition challenges attendees to vote for the best exhibitor booths in a range of different categories. Voters are invited to pick their favorites from among the hundreds of booths displaying countless products and services for producing events of every stripe. Participants can look for more details in the 2003 show directory, available on site.
Competition winners will be announced at a special Exhibit Hall Cocktail Reception on Fri., Jan. 10. The event provides a relaxing environment for show-goers to mingle with colleagues and friends while enjoying live entertainment.
TOPS IN TABLES
Back by popular demand, the Tabletop Gallery Competition gives design-minded event pros the opportunity to show off their best work. Showcasing innovative takes on linen, china, floral and more, competing tables will be on display starting Thurs., Jan. 9. Attendees will be able to enjoy the latest looks in tabletop decor while members of the Special Events Magazine Advisory Board cast their secret ballots to pick the winners in two categories: Tabletops Under $1,000 Each and Tabletops $1,000 And Above Each. Tabletop Gallery Competition winners will be announced at the Jan. 10 Exhibit Hall Cocktail Reception.
For more information on these and all programs at The Special Event 2003, call 800/927-5007 or 203/358-3751, or visit www.thespecialeventshow.com.
