The Expo Special Events provide you more ways to network with your peers, celebrate our industry, and be up to date with the latest Awards and Personalization news. Some events require additional registration. You can sign up when you complete your 2022 International Expo registration or in-person at our Expo registration table.
How to Register
Awards and Recognition Industry Education Foundation (ARIEF) Auction
- Wednesday, February 23 | 8 am–4:30 pm
- Thursday, February 24 | 8 am–4:30 pm
Are you ready to have fun and give back? The ARIEF Silent Auction provides you the opportunity to do both. Place your bid on industry equipment and products, electronics, sporting items, and more - all donated by association members.
These hot items are just waiting for you to make a bid and support ARIEF’s efforts. Visit the auction to support education, scholarship, and industry-specific research.
Welcome First Time Attendees
Wednesday, February 23 | 1 pm
Is this your first time at the International Awards & Personalization Expo? Or, are you a new member?
Then welcome! Join us and learn tips and tricks from friendly industry veterans who will help you make the most of your time at the industry’s largest event. We'll answer questions, introduce you to exhibitors, and guide you to can't-miss events.
Party on the Show Floor: After-Hours Event
Wednesday, February 23 | 4:30–6 pm
When the expo floor closes on Wednesday, the fun is far from over. Join us for the After-Hours Party with music, friends, drinks, and food.
Awards Celebration
Thursday, February 24 | 6–7:30 pm
Shine a spotlight on the industry’s best and brightest! This event honors those who have demonstrated immeasurable dedication to the industry and our association. Join us for a fun night as we celebrate the Gold and Clear Obelisk award recipients with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Make sure to order tickets when you register.
Member Breakfast and Annual Meeting
Friday, February 25 | 8–9:30 am
All members are invited to join us for breakfast to recognize members who have worked hard to earn their Certified Recognition Specialist and Certified Recognition Master designations, install the 2021–2022 Board of Directors, and share the latest association news.
Meet the Keynote Speaker
Olalah Njenga, CEO of YellowWood Group, is an award-winning entrepreneur, an accomplished business strategist, and an advocate for the small business economy. Olalah partners with business leaders to transform ideas into objectives and objectives into outcomes. She worked in several enterprise operations, administration, legal, human resources, and technology roles before founding her firm in 2003. Olalah serves in national and state leadership roles including serving on the Board of Trustees for the National Small Business Association (NSBA); and is a trusted media source for BBC, NPR, New York times, Marketplace, Fox, and local broadcast affiliates.
Olalah’s keynote address “Thrilled To See You Thrive” will deliver provocative thoughts, irreverent musings, and unconventional wisdom about what it means to thrive in moments of uncertainty, anxiety, and the stuff of life. You'll walk-away from this experience with 3 1/2 strategies to ensure you thrive on your terms, by taking a few cues from your seven-year-old self.
New Product Showcase
Plan time to window shop at the New Product Showcase. The showcase gives you an up-close look at the latest innovations from top industry suppliers.
Learning Lounge
Stop by our Learning Lounge for a unique educational opportunity located right on the trade show floor. You'll pick up tips and tricks as well as important industry knowledge during these 30 minute sessions.
Learning Lounge presentations take place during the trade show floor hours. Presenter information and schedules will be posted soon.