Though many sessions focused on the economy, the 1,100 attendees were also there to experience the hottest event trends. So the show, sponsored by Special Events magazine and Corporate Meetings & Incentives, went on in grand style.
An "Elements" theme party at Gaylord Palms Resort was packed with ideas in theming, entertainment, and F&B, as was an evening event at Disney World's Magic Kingdom. On the show floor, a tabletop exhibit featured the glitziest and classiest spreads vendors could dream up.
At the Gala Awards on the final evening, Special Events Editor Lisa Hurley presented a special award—Top Event Professional—to Patti Coons, CSEP, of Patti Coons Event Marketing Group, Orlando. Other award winners included Extraordinary Events, Sherman Oaks, Calif., for "Best Multiple-Day Incentive Event" and Charles Banfield Productions, Los Angeles, for "Best Event Marketing Campaign." Distinctive Design Events, Otto, N.C.; Bravo Productions, Long Beach, Calif.; Carlson White, Selangor, Malaysia; and Extraordinary Events all were winners in the "Best Event Produced for a Corporation or Association" category.