Attendees Marvel Over Response Expo’s Networking Events
Attendees Marvel Over Response Expo’s Networking Events
By Thomas Haire
SAN DIEGO, As long time attendees know, Response Expo’s networking events are the hub of deal-making and flat-out fun during the show. And this year’s series of seven networking events, five cocktail receptions, the Seventh Annual Golf Tournament and the Hall of Fame induction ceremony, once again allowed Expo veterans and newcomers alike the chance to mix, mingle, drive business and have a great time.
From Monday night’s Kick-Off Party all the way through to the Closing Night Party at Petco Park (home of the San Diego Padres), which featured a surprise performance from hip-hop legend Young MC, opportunities to connect were around every corner.
‚“From start to finish, the show was top notch!” says Kristy Pinand-Dumpert, vice president of sales and marketing for Concepts TV Productions in Boonton, N.J., and reigning Direct Response Marketing Alliance (DRMA) Member of the Year. ‚“And, of course, the icing on the cake was busting a move’ with Young MC!”
The Kick-off Party, sponsored by Lockard & Wechsler Direct and hosted at the rooftop lounge of San Diego’s swanky Hotel Andaz on April 28, started the week’s networking opportunities. It was the third annual ‚“party before the show,” and led nicely into the next morning’s sold-out golf tournament, which featured breakfast, on-course beverages, fun and games at various holes, and an awards lunch. Golf attendees also showed off their charitable sides, kicking off the Expo’s push to promote Someone Cares, a San Diego-based charity that provides support for the homeless. By the end of the show, Expo attendees had donated more than $2,000 to the cause.
Following the Keynote Address, All-Access Badge holders enjoyed the Opening Night Party in the Sapphire Foyer and Terrace of the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. On April 30, attendees were treated to a first-class time at the Venable Justice League Party. Later in the evening, All-Access Badge holders became true networking superheroes during the poolside Masked Marvels Celebration, sponsored by Imagine Fulfillment Services (IFS) and Icon Media Direct.
Expo attendees capped off the three-day event with a private party at Petco Park, and a lively 30-minute surprise performance from Southern California-based rapper Young MC, whose 1989 hit ‚“Bust A Move” remains a showstopper.
‚“It was another fabulous Response Expo,” says Mark Sullivan, vice president of direct response and paid programming for Viacom Media Networks. ‚“From Viacom’s perspective, it may have been our best one yet!”
Adds Bob Aloisio, vice president of sales and marketing for Chicago-based TTC Marketing Solutions, ‚“The show, and all of the events and parties, was outstanding. TTC exhibits at and I attend a lot of shows and events each year, and Response Expo is by far the best.”
