Thanks to Sweet Shop USA!

We thank the Sweet Shop USA for sponsoring the favors for our Cabaret Event!  You'll be enjoying their rich chocolate truffles in gorgeous packaging.  Need we mention they're perfect for gift baskets?  Visit them online at www.sweetshopusa.com.

Welcome Constant Contact to the 2012 NGBC!

If you're wondering why staying in constant contact with your customers is important, then don't miss the lunch and learn seminar sponsored by Constant Contact.  In addition to the seminar, they'll have a kiosk to answer your questions AND, on top of all of that, they're offering discounts!

Did You Buy Your Tickets?

We sold seven tickets today just out of the blue and wow, how exciting!  This group of gals decided to surprise me and buy them altogether in one day.  Thanks ladies!  I appreciate your enthusiasm.  I might have a little surprise for you when you arrive :)

If you haven't bought your ticket, don't miss one very important fact....if you put $50 down, you can make payments on the remaining balance.  I'm not kidding. 

Get your ticket and get ready to attend the National Gift Basket Convention in 2012 in San Jose, California

The Gift Basket Industry Survey Yields AMAZING Results!

Last month, we asked you to complete an industry survey that asked you what you thought about the current state of the industry, your future and much more.  We thank you for completing it and will be publishing some results in the next issue of Trends and Tips Magazine.  But, the even better news is that know we can validate the results with our current and future plans for the conventions.  We've got a lot of work to do but are so eager to do it.

2013? What?

If you know Debbie Quintana, you know that she's a planner and very detailed oriented.  That being said, she's asked us to already start looking at locations for 2013.   So, in the spirit of support and collaboration, we'd like to ask you to complete our quick poll!  10 seconds of your time....

www.nationalgiftbasketconvention2013.com

Our Blog Goes MOBILE!

Our blog has grown up!  It's now available on mobile phones in an easy to follow format and we've gotten over 200 people that have checked it out already!  So excited that we're the first to bring this technology to the gift basket industry and even more excited that everyone is looking at it so far advance to the convention next year.

This blog is going to start to get busier as time goes on.  After the NGBC in Ohio in August, we'll be kicking off our main marketing program and its going to fun and exciting to see it grow from now until next year.  I hope you're going to join us and be a part of something amazing.

Oh, the mobile blog is at http://ngbc.wirenode.mobi/
Check it out!

New or Old, Expert or Beginner - the 2012 NGBC is for YOU

I recently talked to someone who has been in the industry for a very long time.  She basically told me she doesn't need to learn anything else, she's been doing this so long that she knows what she needs to know.  But, by the end of the conversation, I heard the woes and "falling short of their goals" story and how the economy has really hurt her business.  Sometimes it takes talking to someone else for the lightbulb to go on.  It was that discussion that we had that made her realize that she didn't know it all; hadn't kept up with the new marketing and sales concepts and even more important - knows she needs to be at the 2012 NGBC. 

Moral of the story - never think you know it all because you don't know what you don't know.

Site Tour at The Marriott was GREAT!

Last week, we met with our event planner at The Marriott for two hours to go through a variety of details for next years convention. We took samples of our booth cloths, the Cabaret fabrics and some "extras" we're doing and they all looked great.  We set the stage size for the Morning Huddle, Lunch & Learn, Rockin' Design Challenge and Cabaret events and were even able to taste some new food they're offering.

We're excited and hope you are too....watch for new announcements over the next week!

One More Instructor Position Open!

Believe it or not, we have all but one instructor position filled for the convention next year!  I'm a huge planner and obviously love having everything done as far in advance as possible.

We have one spot open...ideas?  Who would you like to see teach? 

Let us know at ngbc@comcast.net.

A New Faculty Member is Announced - Ann Powell

Today, I'm pleased to announce that Ann Powell has joined our faculty.  She'll be teaching one of the most important business classes which is the true cost of your business.  We're thrilled to have her and invite you to visit the website and learn more about Ann.  Her photo and biography are being posted now!

Answering Questions All Day!

Frequently Asked Questions - and Answers!

Q:  Hi Debbie: I have an employee that is my assistant  that will be coming how do I register her?
A:  If she'll be attending classes, etc. then you'll register her as a regular guest in the same way you registered yourself.

Q:  Hi Debbie, I have a question about Cabaret. Is the $75 per person? I want my hubby to come, so I wanted to know if it is for a couple or per person? Thanks.
A:  Yes Cabaret is $75 per person, you can buy him a ticket in the online store here:  http://nationalgiftbasketconvention.homestead.com/cabaret.html

Q:  What is the ticket price?
A:   Total ticket price is $299.  That includes breakfast and lunch for all three days, all classes and joint activities, access to trade show and one Coffee Talk session. 

Q:  What is the payment plan?
A:  $50 down and the remainder over a 10 month period.  Tickets must be paid in full by May 2012.

Q:  What type of industry panel are having?
A:   The panel we're having is during one of the morning huddles and will consist of one business professionals from a variety of industries including corporate, entertainment, medical, etc.  They're going to tell you how to sell to their industries.

Phew! What a day!

Today was definitely convention day!  Willow Specialties booked two booths with us and will be bringing  huge variety of containers to the convention, I especially like the faux leather containers they have! 

Also showing their support with product donations include Lisa Shively's Kitchen Helpers.  Lisa is just wonderful and its understandable that she can't make the trip to California, maybe in 2013 our location will better for her!  She is just so lovely and her products are super fun. 


Last and certainly not least, Lion Ribbon will be joining us and taking a 20 minute spot on our "Show Me Stage" giving us a demo of bow making and the various types of ribbons available.

We had to widen the front website today!  I wonder what tomorrow will bring.

Vendor Bucks - What are they?

When you spend more than $200 at the Tradeshow, you'll be given an opportunity to spin the prize wheel and you might land on the $100, $50, $25 or more Vendor Bucks Spot!  Then, you can spend even MORE at the Tradeshow!

The 2012 NGBC Welcomes Another New Vendor! Willow Specialities

You better believe that they're bringing a huge variety of products - Willow Specialties based out of New York is known for a wide variety of container types.  From standard willow to faux leather, they'll be showing off their latest and greatest products in two booths!

The 2012 NGBC Welcomes a New Vendor!

We're thrilled to announce that Berwick Offray/Lion Ribbon will be attending the 2012 National Gift Basket Convention.  As the only ribbon vendor so far, we're excited to see the various existing and new products they'll bring to share with us and have been invited to our "Show Me" stage to share some of their new products.

Glue Dots is officially supporting the 2012 NGBC!

I'm so thrilled and grateful that Glue Dots has offered to donate product for the design classes at the 2012 NGBC!  I'm looking forward to seeing some of their new products! 

Thanks Glue Dots!

What was it like?

What was it like years ago when the conventions were hot, discussion forums were smokin' and activity was poppin' all over the place?  I have to ask because I wasn't a part of it.  Let's work together to recreate that environment again to inspire and motivate everyone.

Email me your story at debbie@debbiequintana.com

Thank You!

I feel like a teenager...so thrilled to see so many sign ups this morning!  Keep them coming.  We have 41 already....and its only been 6 hours!

One thing I'll never forget....

When I first launched GBA, there was one thing I knew I'd never forget....my very first sign up.  It was Lisa Bevan.  Then, came Meryl Mixtacki.  My first supplier was Longhorn, my second, Howard Imprinting.

Today, Lisa is one of my good friends, is on the faculty and works for three of the seven companies I own.  She's even a chapter president for The Women's Networking Alliance in Ohio.  Meryl, has been a great friend from day one and was sign up #2 for the convention.  I'm thrilled know to both of them and am so grateful for their support.

Our first sign ups for attendees were Dana Sonia, who is also going to be a judge for the "Show Your Stuff" design competition and was the committee leader who helped design the "rules".  Our first sign up for suppliers was Rich Shaffer of Torn Ranch.


I'll never forget that ....its just something I'll always remember.

Check out this endorsement!

Can't help but to share this!

"The last time I went to California, Ronny Regan was president so you know it's got to be something pretty special to get this redneck out of the south and out to San Jose. I'm really looking forward to seeing what Debbie and crew put together for us in 2012. All the planning and effort I've seen so far are pointing towards an excellent show!

As a vendor with a mainly eastern US customer base, I'm really looking forward to introducing our products to a new group of customers who aren't able to make the trek across the country for the conventions over this way.

See everyone in San Jose!"

Eric Rion
Willa's Shortbread

There is still room for Instructors and Experts

We've invited almost every single instructor and expert in the gift basket industry to be a part of our convention.  Most have responded, some have not but we always want you all to know that you are welcomed.  Just contact one of the executive team members and we will find a place for you.  We want our attendees to have access to all of the industry's greatest so step up and join us.  It's GREAT for the industry!

A little emotional today!

I know it sounds corny, but today is a bit of an emotional day for all of us.  We've put so much work into forming the 2012 convention in a way that it satisfies the needs of everyone.  The fact that its already time to start selling tickets is just amazing.  I have to share with you that we have spent hours and hours talking to gift basket professionals, vendors and business experts to make sure we bring you FRESH and NEW content.  I want our convention to be one that you walk away from so motivating to get started that you can barely stand it.  And while you're with us, I want you to feel invited, supported and motivated throughout.

I welcome your feedback, your partnership and collaboration so please - don't hesitate to email me at debbie@debbiequintana.com. 

It's getting closer and I'm getting more nervous!

Yes!  I'm talking about May 1st at 8am.  I'm really excited for Sunday...it seems like it was so long ago that we set May 1st as our official launch day and its just a few days away.  Where does the time go?

Today, we revamped the front page of the website so its extra clear what we have to offer in terms of education and some fun, too.  I spent many years on the road traveling in a prior career and I know that having some fun, good food and friends is always appreciated.

Hope to see your sign up come through on Sunday!

What happens in 6 days?

It was last year when we started planning for the convention and we kept saying, "we have two years to make this perfect!" and a year has already gone by.  While you may think this isn't until next July of 2012...you, too, will be surprised to see how fast the year will fly. 

In 6 days, we open registration for the 2012 National Gift Basket Convention and I will tell you with every heartfelt genuine bone in my body that it is going to be a convention you don't want to miss.  We have spent a long time putting the details together and will continue to make it even better between how and next year.

I hope you'll register this Sunday.  It's $50 deposit and then take 10 months to pay.  It's that simple and easy.

You can already see the vendors that have committed to attending the tradeshow.  They are supporting us by purchasing a booth and showcasing their products among other things.

Questions?  Just call any of us on the executive committee.

A GREAT Testimonial Just In!

We will be supporting the 2012 NGBC because of the exciting new and creative events that will be taking place at the convention. In this day and age, every dollar a business spends has to bring a strong return. I wholeheartedly believe this convention will be at a gold standard level that will surpass attendees expectations … and it will get bigger every year as word spreads about its professional level of classes, resources and the excitement that it brings to the industry.

I recently met Debbie Quintana and immediately sensed her strong skill set, motivation and passion for creating something grand for the gift basket business. Her honest and personable desire to assist others shines through and what perfect way to share that but through a convention? As I continue to talk with her about the plans already in the works, I’m ready to jump on the plane and leave now. It will be a fabulous convention not to be missed!

- Sue Monhait, The Ribbon Print Company

New Toll Free Number!

Use our new toll free number if you have questions.  Just call us at (877) 491-8729!

It's a YEAR+ away so let's get to know each other!

We're excited to announce today the creation of a discussion forum with the intention of getting the attendees to connect and know each other over the next year.  We'll also be able to answer your questions, and learn more about your expectations.

Check it out here

Meet a NEW Supplier - Big Steer!

I know they've been in the industry for a long time but for some reason, I never meet them!  Today, I had a wonderful conversation with Sally at Big Steer.  In addition to personally using her products, she's going to do some custom work for a few vendors I'm consulting for - but better yet, she's VERY interested in attending the 2012 NGBC.  I hope you'll encourage them to join us!

Scandleous Candles joins the 2012 NGBC!

You're going to love Anita from Scandleous...she's got an amazing line of candles and does private labeling - perfect for your company label or your customers.  Wait until you meet her!  She'll be at the 2012 NGBC!

Too Good Gourmet Takes the Second Executive Sponsor Spot!

 
We're thrilled to announce that Too Good Gourmet of San Leandro, California has agreed to be a part of the 2012 National Gift Basket Convention!  More to come....

Rogers Family Coffee Company to Sponsor a Coffee Talk Session!

We're working with Rogers Family Coffee Company to sponsor a Coffee Talk session!  This mean you'll get to taste their coffee that morning and get a sample.  More to come!

And the surprises start NOW....

We created our event invitation on Facebook and the first 10 people to say they are attending are the proud recipients of VIP seating at The Cabaret and a special gift at their seat! 

Congratulations to:

Sherry Allen
Joyce Arrieta
Dana Calhoun
Valerie Carroll
Carmen Chong
Paul Fields
Kathy Lippman
Shannon Martin
Janet Redding
Shawn Parola

The Survey Says!

I spend some time this evening reviewing the initial survey we did last year.  We had record high responses and feedback that was very straightforward.  I wanted to compare the feedback with what we've created to make sure we stayed on point.   Here is some of the feedback we received and our final result.

55% said they wanted to be able to choose their own classes.  An additional 28% said they'd like to have some independent classes with time when everyone is together.  You asked for the ability to separate basic from advanced design.

We have the ability for you to choose the classes you want to take.  Once we receive you class selections, our Education Management System will automatically generate your individual schedule.  We'll have that ready in your welcome pack you'll receive when you check in at the Marriott.  Then the Morning Huddle and Lunch and Learn is when we'll all be together and have that group energy that we all love so much!  Last, we have a basic design class, an embellishment class and a high end/low end advanced class.

84% said they wanted to have networking time to be able to mingle with other gift basket company owners but with a good balance of rest, social and professional learning time.

This has been a overwhelming task - creating a schedule that accommodates a good balance of all of the above.  I believe we've done it!  We have a great schedule (click on schedule above) that makes sure everyone gets time to do what they want to do.  And the fact that the hotel rooms are so close to the area we'll be meeting in, is really perfect.  You can return items to your room easily, take a quick rest - whatever you want to do.

...more to come.

And the honorees, are.....A SECRET!

 At the 2012 National Gift Basket Convention, we'll be honoring several industry experts that have demonstrated excellence in their careers within the industry.  But who are they?  You'll have to wait to see!  Buy your tickets to The Cabaret and be a part of this monumental event as we awards the design competition winners, pay respect to the honorees and do our final raffle - all while we're enjoying a fabulous dinner!

Vendors are lining up!

I'm thrilled to see the amount of vendor support we're getting before registration opens.  I can't drop any names yet but you know who you are and I'm so grateful.  We already have 15+ committed to attending and its over a year away!  Of course, they're trying to get me to reserve their booth number before registration but sorry guys, I can't be bought!  Just kiddin', kinda.  You'll have to register but here's a hint - download and fill out the registration form ahead of time and then fax it into 408-448-1516 on the 8th.  If you aren't going to be in the office on the 8th, you can fax it in on the 6th but I'll have to hold it! All is fair!

The Countdown Continues! Registration Fax Forms are Now Available!

We're just 26 days away from the opening of registration for Vendors and Attendees for the 2012 National Gift Basket Convention.  If you're a vendor or attendee and prefer to fax in your registration form, you can download it now and get it ready to fax on May 1, 2011 no earlier than 8:00 a.m. PST. 

Vendor Fax Form: Download it here.

Attendee Fax Form:  Download it here.

The Prize Wheel Has Arrived!

We're adding a bit of an extra touch to the convention next year!  If you spend $250 at the tradeshow, not only will get you an extra few raffle tickets, but you'll get to spin our prize wheel!  It's got prize bags from many of our vendors, books, magazines and even $100 cash!  You just never know what you might win.

This is why we do what we do

Congratulations Debbie, Alex & ALL Executive Staff Planners!
This site is so organized and presented with all bells of high technology.  The event is a year from now, but the website is fully featured and so functional.  Really, this is what we need in the industry.  As always you all have done an extraordinary job in the Gift Basket Industry.
 
Many THANKS and see you all soon,
Nenette

So very, very grateful.

I can't be anymore proud than I am today to start the 30 day countdown to ticket sales for the 2012 National Gift Basket Convention.  I am very grateful to all who have helped and guided us along the way especially Pam Newell, Mary Ann Jacobs, Teresa Nelson and the executive team, Lisa Bevan, Claudia Johnson and Twila Kaye.  We have an amazing faculty and a wonderful event for you.  I hope you'll mark your calendar for May 1st at 8:00 a.m. PST and get ready to jump in to the 2012 NGBC.

Pre-Registrations End on March 31, 2011

Well, tomorrow is it...if you're looking to pre-register, tomorrow is the day!  We'll be ending the pre-registration process and holding tight for 30 days before the actual registration opens on May 1, 2011.  Why pre-register?  Because it guarantees you're spot to get the complimentary gift pack for being one of the first 150 guests.  So far, we're up to number 81!

2 More Days until the 30 Day Countdown!

On May 1st, we'll be opening for business!  You can buy your booths, choose your sponsorships or if you're attendee, buy your ticket and/or pay for it all at once or make payments.  It's going to be an exciting day with extra raffle tickets going to the first 50 people who sign up (vendors and attendees).

Mark your calendar for May 1st at 8:00 a.m.!  I'll be broadcasting live on Ustream TV throughout the day!


Debbie

Welcome to our Pre-Registered Guests!

You picked your yellow ticket and now, have your place in line to be the first 150 to receive our complimentary gift pack.  We'll start the 30 day countdown to May 1, 2011 very soon so get your tickets ready and watch your email.  You're going to get a special email to sign up a little itty bitty earlier than everyone else. 

Travis Woodward joins the faculty at the 2012 NGBC!

Yes, Travis is my son!  He's also the owner of Dinosoar Studios, a small business video production company.  Travis has been making videos for the gift basket industry since he was 13 years old.  Now 17, he'll be teaching Gadgets and Gyzmos with Lisa Bevan showing you how to use a variety of different technologies to improve your efficiency and impress your customers.

Welcome Travis! (oh and surprise - nothing like Mom not telling you ahead of time!)

Celebrity Chef Michael Mina

The executive planning team and I were able to spend the day at The Marriott.  We were treated so wonderful that we didn't want to leave.  The entire team was so amazing.  Even the executive chef came over with appetizers and extras for us to try.  All of the food at the glorious Arcadia Restaurant is designed by Celebrity Chef Michael Mina.  Chef Mina owns several restaurants and I must say that their food is just so delicious. 

All of the meals we've chosen for the convention, especially The Cabaret, has been designed by Chef Mina and we'll be pleased to have it served to you at the 2012 National Gift Basket Convention.

JDW Distributors is sponsoring our Rockin' Design Challenge!

Love JDW!  They're one of my favorite vendors.  I remember they were one of the first vendors I used when I started Gourmet Gifts so long ago.  And now, we have even a bigger reason to love them!  Ribbon Print USA and JDW Distributors have agreed to sponsor the Rockin' Design Challenge.  JDW will be stocking the pantry's for our participants to choose products from - allowing them to create designs out of amazing gift basket components.

Thanks JDW!  We're looking forward to seeing you at the 2012 National Gift Basket Convention!

Ribbon Print USA Sponsors the Rockin' Design Challenge

We're SO excited to announce that Ribbon Print USA will be the official ribbon printer for the Rockin' Design Challenge at the 2012 NGBC.  

The Rockin' Design Challenge puts two teams of five gift basket designers will come together to create random designs with unknown products in front of the entire gift basket community. It's a fun event with live music, two full workshops, a centralized pantry of supplies and an audience.  

If you think you can handle the pressure of ten minutes to create a design from products you've never seen before, then we dare you to sign up for the Rockin' Design Challenge. 

Thanks to Savarozza!

We are lucky to have Savarozza support our 2012 NGBC!  They'll be providing samples for our classes and wait until you taste their products.  Simply amazing.  I use their single serve imported Italian cookies in several of my gift baskets and they're a great hit!

March 20, 2011, Questions about the Attendee Payment Program

We're getting some questions from our attendees wanting to know more about the "Payment Program".  Here it is:

Attendees must make a $50 non-refundable deposit on their ticket.  After that, the remaining amount due is scheduled to be charged to their ATM/Debit or Credit Card on a monthly basis via our reoccurring system (not Paypal) over a 10 month period which equates to a mere $25 per month.  If our attendees want to pay for their entire ticket all at once, GREAT!

Additionally, the first 150 attendees who register, will receive our complimentary gift pack.  We're thrilled to bring you a eco-friendly tote bag, note book, water bottle and aluminum name badge. 

It's that simple.  :)  If you've already received your "yellow ticket" you're guarantee a complimentary gift pack and a ticket to the convention.

Be ready to officially sign up on May 1, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. PST at

HERE

March 19, 2011, A Systematic Approach

One of the things we talked about when we first started the convention planning is how we're going to manage data.  When our attendees purchase their tickets on May 1st, there is a process for each one to ensure they get the classes they want and if they're making payments, how do we track that to ensure accuracy.  Each classroom has to be set up, areas have to be moved around, you get the point.

We are lucky enough to have a few technologists on our team and we have created strong systems and databases to make managing our information seamless.  From an automatic scheduling program that allows us to enter the number the class, available seats and then place someone in that class while ensure they're able to take the other classes they want to take all the way to a program that allow us to create a booth environment by vendor, we are well prepared.  Vendors can easily tell us how they want their booth configured including extras that will make their booths extra special.  Once a booth is chosen, that booth is automatically shown as "taken" so we hopefully won't have duplicate booth choices.

All of this makes our jobs easier so we can spend our time working on other things that will make our convention perfect.

March 18, 2011, Vendors are lining up!

It's a dream come true.  Imagine creating a gift basket and without doing much marketing, having your customers contacting you to buy them before they're even available.  That is a dream and that is what is happening with the 2012 National Gift Basket Convention.  Much like what Tom & Pam experienced this year, vendors are working hard to secure the last 20 booths they have available.

Our first batch of booths is a batch of 50 booths and so far we have 27 commitments.  27!  Seriously?  I'm past excited.  And when my phone rang this morning from a vendor in Oakland (close to San Jose) asking when they can register, I got even more excited.  That's the norm right now and I'm truly very, very blessed to have such amazing support.  I will work harder at providing the return to all of you.   We might have to open up that second bank of booths but we'll see.

We have even start selling them yet and I've got a list of vendors who have already committed and picked their booth location!  You might have picked your location but will you be one of the first to actual register when we open it up on May 1st at 8:00 a.m. for sales?  I hope so!

March 18, 2011 2013 Discussions Begin!

Who would have thought we'd be starting talks about the 2013 Convention!  It's not even 2012 yet!  As I reflect on the convention we're having in Ohio this year, the one in California next year, it makes me wonder where we'll have it on 2013!  Don't assume it will be in California - we might just surprise you!  But, the talks have begun and will continue.

March 17, 2011 A Facebook Comment at the Perfect Time

One of my Facebook gift basket friends posted this comment on my wall today, "Wow Debbie, this convention actually gets me excited! I really have missed Cherie's conventions. I'm almost positive I'll be on the plane heading for CA next July. I hope you have classes that are geared for people who have been in the profession for a long time."  

What amazing timing!  We've been working so hard on the convention that I was thrilled to read this.


We have very specifically studied, surveyed and learned from personal experience that as gift basket professionals, we all have our strengths and weaknesses.  For those of us who have been in the industry a long time, learning how to put a gift basket together isn't exactly necessary.  For those of us new, its HIGHLY effective.  We have worked hard to bring classes to the 2012 NGBC that will be interesting for everyone at any point in the career.  And, you can chose your classes.  Even better.


Debbie

March 17, 2011 GREAT Announcement

The entertainment at the National Gift Basket Convention in 2012 is going to so much fun!  I'm so excited! 

At the Rockin' Design Challenge, we have to have music so we'll have a small band there to entertain us. 

And then, my husband is a drummer and he's had a band for many years.  At The Cabaret, his band will play and guess who is going to sing?  Our very own Twila Kaye!  Oh my gosh.  I can't wait! 

Wow.  I'm speechless.  Thanks Twila.  I can't wait for you to share your talent.

March 16, 2011 Convention News

Tonight, the executive planning team and I got together and reviewed several pieces of the convention including the ticket pricing.  We settled on a ticket price of $349 with an early bird discount of $50 if you order your ticket on or before September 1, 2011.  Why so early?  The convention isn't until July of 2012.

Well, because we are offering you a flexible payment plan.  Instead of having to shell out the whole amount at once, you can make payments over the course of ten months.  It's that simple.  This will give you over a year to plan your trip.  Bring your family for a vacation in Northern California!  You'll be in San Jose which is 45 minutes to Santa Cruz Beach, San Francisco and just a bit longer to Napa Valley or the Carmel Coast.  July has perfect weather in California and you'll be amazed at the airline prices.  They are unbelievably good.

Tickets go on sale May 1, 2011 at 8am PST.  Be ready.  The first 150 to register get a complimentary gift pack.  It will be waiting for you at check in at the beautiful Marriott Hotel in San Jose, California.

March 16, 2011 Is a blog a substitute for regular direct communication?

Well here I am doing something I said I'd never do.  Allow blogging to take the place of regular conversations I have on a daily basis.  The reality is that between being a mom, wife, business owner and involved with so many organizations, its time to call everyone regularly.  I struggle with keeping in touch.  My voicemail fills up, my cell phone is ringing constantly and my email - well, forget about it.  Ok so I'm exaggerating slightly but one thing is for certain, I'm having trouble keeping up.

But on the other hand, the activity is great.  I love getting phone calls, emails and talking to people regularly so keep them coming.  I promise I'll never say, "I'd love to chat but I can't so go read my blog!"  I won't, I promise.

All of that being said - this blog is intended for the smaller announcements having to do with the convention.  Things that aren't really big enough for a newsletter but are important enough to be mentioned.  So, I'm going to try to write daily because every day, something new is learned, discovered, added....well you get the picture.

DebbieQ

March 15, 2011 Here we go! It's countdown time.

We're set to open for ticket sales for attendees and vendors for May 1, 2011.  Why so early?  It's an easy explanation.  It's because we're excited and so proud to bring you an amazing convention.  Ok well that's true but the real reason is that we want to give you a year to pay for your ticket and plan your trip.  I don't know about you but I'm a planner.  I like to know exactly what I'm going to do and when.  I'm hoping by giving you plenty of notice - you'll be able to attend and it will be financially affordable for you.

I don't want you to miss a thing.  You will be our VIP - I'm personally going to make sure.

Mark your calendar for May 1, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. PST and get online, get your ticket, choose your flexible payment option and get ready to discover, design and dream.  We'll handle the rest.