When I signed up for "Going to the Chapel with Tuftex" in Las Vegas this past spring, I was both excited and a tad bit nervous! I had never stepped out to go to a conference of balloon professionals - let alone a national one! This gal from Esko, MN knew I would be in the company of some big names in the balloon industry and it was so exciting. Read on!
The reason I signed up was two fold:
1) I needed to push myself out of my comfort zone and learn new techniques and improve on the ones I had
2) I had never been to Las Vegas and this seemed like the perfect opportunity!
The reason this conference was appealing to me was because it had the bridal flair and focused on boutique style balloons. The content was right up my alley, attendance was limited and it was two days, leaving plenty of time to make it a mini vacation. Also, the timing was perfect because it was right before the wedding season, so I was excited to take in what I was about to learn and put it to practice immediately.
Once I put my jitters at the door (literally!), I was ready to learn. Walking into the Lotus House Event Center (where the learning sessions were), had me shaking. I had really no idea what I was walking into and I did not know a soul. I don't consider myself an extrovert, so I was nervous, but I put it all in the Lord's hands and that changed everything!
Once I entered, I was greeted by so many friendly people eager to learn from each other, our instructors, and to HAVE FUN! The first session was led by Tisha of "Little Party Girl" Las Vegas - she gave tips on fun Bridal shower set ups, how to incorporate special details, vinyl decal tips, and other techniques. Tisha was willing to share any bit of knowledge she had and is all about community over competition. I was so appreciative of her sharing her perspectives!
Next up, Tiffany of "Confetti Castle" from Charolette, North Carolina. Tiffany is not only talented, but one smart business woman. Tiffany not only shared her balloon "recipes" and techniques, but also instructed us on the business side of our craft. I am an analytical person, so this session was super valuable to me on the crunching the numbers side.
After these two sessions on the first day, we got to take a bus tour of The Strip, with champagne, of course! The bus escorted us from our hotel which led us to Freemont Street to conclude the night. Everyone was encouraged to dress in our favorite bachelorette outfits, so that was super fun and spouses were welcome too - an added bonus!
The last day wrapped up with a master class from Ordessa of O.C. Events in Oklahoma City, OK. Ordessa had so much energy and I was blown away on how she took an empty outdoor pavillion at the Lotus House and transformed it to a flowing (and massive) balloon arch. Ordessa encouraged everyone to jump in and help install the balloons and accessories. It was so fun!
So, that's it! I met a ton of new people and learned so much. I had two events the day I returned to Esko. I confidently applied my new knowledge and improved my offerings to my clients immediately, which was so rewarding for them and myself.
Whatever you are doing in life - I encourage you to do this. First = pray about it. Second = go for it. You never know what is out there for you to learn, experience, and improve yourself on. The only way to know is try!
Finally, if you are reading this all the way to to end, you are supporting me and my small business journey and for that, I am grateful. Thank you.
Cheers!
Michelle
Comments