March 2015

A Message from Your Chapter Chair, Lisa Goecke

 

Dear IAEE Midwestern Chapter Members:

Most people, when they think of springtime, think of warmer weather, flowers blooming and, finally, being able to put away the heavy coats and snow boots. Me? I think of Spring as “Show Season” and I’d bet money a lot of our members know exactly what I’m talking about. Show season can be a crazy time – long hours, lengthy to-do lists, work travel – causing other activities to get moved to the back burner. One way I’ve been able to stay grounded over the years is by participating in Chapter networking events and commiserating with my peers. Sometimes it just takes a trade show person to understand another trade show person.

 

In 2014, we began a series of quarterly meet-ups that we call “Member Mixers”. We held our first quarter mixer on Wednesday, March 11 at Blackfinn in the River North neighborhood of Chicago. It was a really great, casual happy-hour and a great way to take a break and network, without the pressure of more formal education activities. 

We’ll be sending out information on our 2nd Quarter mixer soon and I hope to see you there! I’d love to meet you and swap stories from the exhibit floor.

If you were able to attend our February program in Rosemont, you were able to hear about our various committees that are looking for volunteers. We have a variety of opportunities available so no matter when your “Show Season” is, we can help find an opportunity that will fit within your schedule. Click here to read about our committees. If any of them are of interest to you, please do not hesitate to email me for more information. 

Have a great Spring “Show Season”!

--Lisa


This Quarter’s Highlights

 

Educational Program and Member Mixer: How Big is Your Pipe? Demystifying the Internet
On February 25th, the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center rolled out the red carpet to host a panel discussion focused around the internet and navigating the terms we hear but may not understand. See photos here.

Additionally we held our annual volunteer drive, so if you’re interested in finding out more information on our committees and how you can get involved, please visit here.

 

2nd Annual Kick Ball Tournament

Congratulations to Source One Events

On January, 22nd they took home the coveted winner’s plaque by defeating seven other teams during an evening of networking and fun. Special thanks to McCormick Place and Savor Chicago for generously hosting the event.

 

 


Important Reminders

There is still time to become a Chapter Sponsor!

You can make your 2015 sponsorship commitment by completing and returning this form. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact our Sponsorship Committee Board Liaison, Brent Linkin.

If you aren’t able to support the chapter as a yearly sponsor, please support us by attending our educational programs and events.  Your attendance would be a benefit for us both.


Upcoming Events - Save the Date

Educational ProgramWednesday, June 3, Save the Date! Location and details coming soon. 

2015 Golf OutingMonday, September 14, It’s not too early to sign up for the 26th Annual Golf Outing.  Registration is now open.  Get your foursomes together and take advantage of the early bird rates. Learn more...


EXPO! EXPO! News

We know the Midwestern Chapter is filled with members who enjoy teaching and speaking. If you’re one of those members, please consider submitting a proposal to present at this year’s EXPO! EXPO! in Baltimore. To submit a proposal to IAEE, please click here.


Industry Related Tips and Tools

Trying to find research to support new initiatives?  Well don’t forget about a free member resources provided by CIER. http://www.ceir.org/

7 ways to use Instagram to your advantage at a tradeshow
http://www.exhibitcitynews.com/7-ways-use-instagram-advantage-tradeshow/

Optimize Your Trade Show Experience with an Event Checklist
http://www.tsnn.com/news-blogs/optimize-your-trade-show-experience-event-checklist

 

 

Thank You to our 2015 Sponsors

 

Platinum

Choose Chicago 

Freeman

Global Experience Specialists


Trade


Convention Data Services 

Oscar & Associates 


Gold

Fern Exposition & Event Services

Valley Expo & Displays 


Silver 

Expocad

Map Your Show 

SmartSource

 

 

 

Network With Us!