The Special Expo Events provide you more ways to network with your peers, celebrate our industry, and be up to date with the latest APA news. Some events require additional registration. You can sign up when you complete your 2023 International Expo registration or in-person at our Expo registration table.
Awards and Recognition Industry Education Foundation (ARIEF) Auction
- Wednesday, February 8 | 8 am–4:30 pm
- Thursday, February 9 | 8 am–4:30 pm
Are you ready to have fun while giving 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 APA 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 8 | 1 pm
Is this your first time at the International Personalization & Awards 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 8 | 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 9 | 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 Obelisk award recipients with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.
Make sure to order your tickets when you register.
Member Breakfast and Annual Meeting
Friday, February 10 | 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 (CRS) and Certified Recognition Master (CRM) designations, install the 2023–2024 Board of Directors, and share the latest association news.
We’re excited to welcome our Guest Speaker Colin Wayne!
Father, Veteran, Philanthropist and Entrepreneur are a few words to describe Colin Wayne. A visionary at heart, Colin has built a multi-million-dollar empire within the online home decor space since founding Redline Steel in 2016. With over 2.7 million orders and 1.3 million customers, his company quickly scaled into the largest customized steel manufacturer in the country. Redline Steel offers a wide range of products from Steel and Canvas Art to Wall Vinyl and Apparel.
Amongst his pledge to put “People over Profit,” Colin Wayne and Redline Steel have received numerous awards and recognitions over the years, including the Red Cross "Humanitarian of the Year” Award in 2017, the State of Alabama recipient at the White House during “Made in America” Week in 2019, and was listed at #110 in the 2020 Inc 5000 list.
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.