Hey all! We (Draig and I) Were there- actually our 1st Conference- but were covering it for a story in the MMMR (the Sponsors)
Had a Great time- and yes, I agree- smaller/darker than we expected- however, we were told it was because Grand Rapids wanted to use it as a "Test drive" before they'd allow a larger venue in the future.
Got TONS of Swag! OMG! People handing us stuff left and right! Didn't see/hear about the free seeds- were there from the start both days-- But Draig got real ill (we're both Med patients for a reason! LOL!) and we missed the presentation of the Cup awards-- anyone that could fill us in on presenters/winners/placers I'd really appreciate it!
The Band Saturday night was decent- but I was really disappointed in some of the Seminars/classes. In one-- one of the 3 Gentlemen was rather rude to people asking questions and clearly thought he was 'above' the other presenters- as he wouldn't interact with them and stayed as far away as he could... IMO- NOT a good attitude for this type of venue! He was making people uncomfortable.
And I hate to say it- But Draig and I had to almost "run the show" at one point, since no one would ask questions! (Except a rude vendor who came up and hassled the speakers in order to troll for customers!) Unfortunately- we had to ask what people always ask us, to see what their opinions were, and a lot of the time, no one could answer the questions!?
I think Next Year we may see if we can offer a "Beginners Growing Q & A " Seminar- If it's in Grand Rapids.
But that said- we had a great time, and saw such a wonderful mix of people-- all walks of life, all ages, all with different reasons for being there-- and NEVER ONCE saw or heard ANYONE being nasty or rude (except what I already mentioned) and was SHOCKED at the number of people there to get their license! There was not only a long line the entire time at the Convention- but then when they were shipped/drove over to the Hotel to see the Doc- the line was there almost all night!!
Hat's off to the Crew who ran it- especially that Med staff- they worked their buns off!!!
Hope we saw some of ya there! If so-- Nice to meet ya!