EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE by Jill Tuggle

Executive Director’s Message

The 2021 Texas Auto Body Trade Show: All about the HOTEl

WWhen January comes around, people often set goals and resolutions or just simply have a “word” for the year. When plans started to take shape for the 2021 Texas Auto Body Trade Show, I had one word in mind: “Destination.” I have kept that word in mind throughout the entire planning process. What does everyone love about the big shows? The locations – just look at SEMA in Las Vegas. Shining lights, the ringing of slot machines, shows, great food… and a hefty price tag. The show is absolutely amazing, but what if I told you that you could get some of the same great education and cleverly themed accommodations

AND see all the newest tools and equipment RIGHT HERE in

Texas? Oh, yeah, and a fun-filled weekend that won’t break the bank? Well, you can – and it is all at the Texas Auto Body Trade

Show.

For the next few months, my messages to you will be showcentric, giving you the highlights of what you can expect at the biggest trade show of its kind in the south. This month, it is all about the hotel.

Texican Court is a boutique hotel literally steps away from the Irving Convention Center, where the show is taking place. As we say here in Texas, “You could throw a rock and hit it.” Like its name, the theme is Texas-meets-Mexico – casual and very cool. You will feel like you’re stepping onto the set of a retro ’70s cowboy movie where the perfectly curated décor is both swanky and western.

Rooms are laid out motel-style, with the doors on the exterior, and the circular pool is surrounded by cacti of many varieties. Once inside, you will find concrete floors, pennytiled bathrooms and a full-size retro refrigerator completely stocked with beer, liquor and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks. The coffee table is stocked with snacks and candy as well. Mid-century modern furnishings are finished off with Mexican sarape blankets and Egyptian cotton linens, which add a luxurious touch to this amazing space. The rooms have all the ingredients for a fun time without that hefty price tag!

To lock in the on-site fun, Two Mules Cantina and Salt Tequila Bar feature live music, handcrafted cocktails and amazing food. The hotel grounds feature four acres of grassy areas, fire pits (with s’mores), cornhole, horseshoes and more! You can borrow one of the hotel’s bikes for a fun way to get to the shops across the street or take advantage of its free parking.

So, yes, she is all that and a bag of chips – and for the incredible rate of $119/night! Bring your spouse or a friend and enjoy a FUN weekend at the Texas Auto Body Trade Show and Texican Court!

Book online at abat.us events/2021tradeshow.

Jill Tuggle

ABAT Executive Director

jill@abat.com

TXA