My name is Sharla, and I work as an outside sales consultant for a company called In Depth Events. I have been with the company since 2011, originally as a stagehand, with intermittent promotions throughout my time with them. Instead of setting up the show now, I attend the show and get to see things from a whole new perspective. 

Two things, both of which I believe to be vital in event production. The first one is the amount of dedication that is required to make an event of this magnitude happen is phenomenal. The members who sit on the TAFE Board of Directors, to the many who see to the Trade Show floor, work countless hours making sure that everything is perfect for “The Success of All.” An amazing group of individuals who have missed holidays, birthdays, weddings, and so much more that is missed out on, all in the name of “The Show Must Go On.” 

The second reminder was something that I had feared was lost to the fast-paced, ever-changing world called the entertainment industry. But much to my surprise, nothing was lost after all. What am I referring to? Wait for it… Drum roll, please. It is so simple, yet few and far between, that you witness people who live and breathe working together. That’s right; this industry works best when it works together. When we work together, it just works better. 

               Built on connection, not competition 

From the moment that I started walking the Trade Show floor, it became quite clear that these companies were not there defending territory or competing. They were there to collaborate, share ideas, and were open to many opportunities within a working, trusted partnership. 

Something about it reminded me of my many years as a stagehand. Part of the behind-the-scenes, making sure that the stage was centered and safe; lights focused and addressed, audio pitched to perfection. Lights, camera, action. To accomplish all this madness in a short span of time means allowing yourself certain vulnerabilities. Because every load-in/load-out has many dangers within the many components taking shape at the same time, yet somehow friendships are being made, and lifelong bonds are formed. Alongside the madness, amid the chaos, this is happening, and it is a beautiful thing to be a part of and witness. 

This was my takeaway from this conference, and it was received from everyone that I spoke with. From the husband and wife at TEXAS STAGE and LONESTAR MOBILE STAGING to all the cool guys from DEEP SOUTH PRODUCTIONS. This was the overall theme of the conference: Community is key, and we are the best version of ourselves when we all play well together in the sandbox. Because there is more than enough sand for everyone to build a castle.