Alexandria, VA, February 15, 2006--The thousands of architects, designers and builders who attend Coverings 2006, the international tile and stone industry’s premier exposition and conference, April 4-7, in Orlando, will be treated to a special evening all their own. Thursday, April 6, is Appreciation Night for this segment of show attendees. The celebration is being hosted at the Mannequins Dance Palace at Downtown Disney® Pleasure Island, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
“Sometimes the best networking at a trade show is done in a relaxing, more casual environment,” said Tamara Christian, Coverings show director and president, National Trade Productions. “Appreciation Night has come to have a double meaning. It’s been an effective and fun way for the Coverings sponsors and NTP to express appreciation to the important segments of the tile and stone industry who participate each year. Also, our guests welcome the hospitality and the opportunity it affords them for informal networking. Appreciation Night is the perfect mix of business and entertainment. They put in a full day at the show, but they are re-energized by the party atmosphere.”
Mannequins Dance Palace is one of the area’s trendiest clubs featuring a signature rotating dance floor. The hub of nightlife for locals as much as for visitors, Downtown Disney® Pleasure Island is where the entertainment spills out onto the street and well into the wee hours. After the party, Coverings guests can enjoy a half-dozen night spots and attractions offered there.
This Appreciation Night party is one of many Coverings events catering exclusively to architects, designers and builders who attend the show. There also are free CEU accredited conferences, workshops and educational forums covering a variety of subjects to meet this segment’s interest. Topping the choices are sessions with color guru Leatrice Eiseman, award-winning interior designer Clodagh, and acclaimed community planner and environmental architect Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk.
Color trends, sustainable design, tile in spa and resort design, and issues of community planning are just a few of the topics to be covered. What’s more, keynote speaker Paco Underhill, is a definite attraction. The acclaimed author of “Why We Buy: The Science of Shopping” will share insights from his studies on the retail environment, consumer buying habits, and what influences a purchase. His presentation kicks off the four-day show at the Orange County Convention Center.
