I've just returned from Stager's List Expo in Orlando, Florida, and once again, I had an incredible time meeting other stagers from across the country. The experience of learning, commiserating, motivating and being motivated by each and every attendee and presenter was priceless. From the newest stagers who have a fresh take on business, and innovative ideas, to the most experienced top-producers who have a tremendous amount of wisdom and knowledge to impart - I learned something from everyone I met.

The free-flow of TONS of valuable information, the candid discussions with experts and colleagues and the "open book" presenting style of the workshop leaders made for two-full days of learning and inspiration. Here's a quick recap of the days' events...

Day 1: We started with hearing from Terrylnn Fisher on De-Mystifying the Realtor. The "pearls of wisdom" she shared from the Realtor's perspective were outstanding. I thought after being a Realtor myself, I knew it all, but Terrylynn shared some solid insight and lent new perspective on quite a few topics. Next, Kym Hough's energizing and inspiring presentation on "Running a Thriving Business in a Down Economy" left me feeling like I had just had a B-12 shot in my business plan. Revenue streams, revenue streams, revenue streams!! Her infectious enthusiasm is addictive. After lunch, Christine Rae delivered a motivating and informative "state of the union" address as we filled our notebooks with all of the inspiration, statistics, tips and trends that Christine had to offer.

In between the featured speakers, we were able to visit with our fellow stagers and expo sponsors. I always enjoy news and industry updates from Shell Brodnax of RESA. Shell is always on the go-go-go, and does so much for our industry. Thank you Shell! We wrapped Day 1 with an "Ask the Expert" speakers panel featuring the events' guest experts and workshop leaders. I would have loved to pick everyone's brains for hours, and would have loved to share every bit of what I've learned in 7 years of running Interiority Complex, but alas, Terrilynn kept giving us the film director-styled "wrap it up" signal in the back of the room!

Day 2: Melissa Marro gave a power-packed presentation on explosive marketing techniques.  What a focused, dedicated and driven business woman! After Melissa, Kelly McFredrick (an Irish energizer bunny!) presented a workhop on Green Marketing Techniques.  I had to deliver my workshop, Triple Your Revenues at the same time, otherwise, I would have been front and center in Kelly's workshop. After that, I had to hop on an early afternoon flight back to Texas, and was disappointed to miss the afternooon workshops. If you're reading this and you attended, can you post a summary and your big "take-away" for me? I would have loved to hear Chris Fisher speak on web presence and I can't WAIT to starting using her services.

Thank you, all East Coast stagers who came from near and far. You are a wonderful group and I'm looking forward to hearing more about your successes, and I hope our paths cross again soon! Thank you Kym and Terrilynn, for being such brilliant, fun, smart, kind and intelligent shining faces. I wish we lived closer together so I could see your faces more often!

Last but not least, thank you Laurie Calhoun & Susan Stevens for helping to pull all of us together in one room for two days of learning and laughter!