An Opening Night to Remember

Grace McNamara, owner and producer of IWCE, greets folks as they enter the Expo floor.

An Expo bartender gives a thumbs- up at the opening gala, while a happy attendee grabs a bite to eat. Throngs of attendees enter the Expo.

For the first time in IWCE history, the exhibition hall opened on Friday evening to rave reviews from exhibitors and attendees alike. Hundreds of people packed the booths of pleased exhibitors, who capitalized on the additional opportunity to explain and sell their products and services to potential customers. Everyone enjoyed the grand gala reception with Nashville-inspired appetizers and western swing music by Brassfield. Tom Marusak, president of Comfortex, said, “I am pleasantly surprised by what a strong show this was. Kicking it off with a cocktail reception—a little different start than in past years—was a huge success. And WOW! When the crowd came in Friday evening, they were so enthusiastic.”