Hello From Spruce Meadows

Marilee and I arrived at Spruce Meadows on a beautiful brisk sunny Tuesday and were greeted by a spectacular facility with green tidy lawns, an abundance of beautiful flowers and sprinklers spraying vast amounts of water over the riding arenas. The sight was awesome. There was harried activity in the trade show as exhibitors set up their booths in preparation for the upcoming days of the Masters. The organization of Spruce Meadows is spot on and everythingruns like clockwork.

Wednesday morning presented a very different mood with everything setup and ready for business. Spectators were milling around beginning to make their purchases. Spruce Meadows offers a diverse trade show with many types of exhibitors, ranging from breed associations, fashion shows, English and Western tack and apparel, jewelry, art and much, much more!

Wednesday evening, in Congress Hall, the Exhibitor Reception presented by the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games was ready, set up with lovely flowers imported directly from Holland and delivered on the plane with the horses arriving from Europe. Linda Southern, CEO of Spruce Meadows, stopped by to extend a welcome to the exhibitors after which the Games promo video was shown. Marilee captured everyone’s attention with a great trade show presentation and we spoke with several interested vendors. Makers Mark was present offering a tasting of their Kentucky Bourbon and the Mint Juleps were a hit! We were thrilled with the turnout.

The 2010 Games booth has had a lot of activity over the past several days. So many peoplealready have the Games on their calendar. Many Canadians have already secured their tickets through pre-purchase programs and those who haven’t are anxiously awaiting September 25th to purchase their tickets . Spruce Meadows exhibitors have stopped by to ask questions about the WEG trade show, and we expect to see increased activity over the weekend. The excitement is mounting!

We extend our thanks to Cheryl Hatcher of the Kentucky Department of Tourism, and Mary Quinn Ramer and Lou Ann Pelle of the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau for their presence in our booth and the assistance they have given us.

We have had a great experience here at Spruce Meadows, but look forward to returning home next week to continue our preparations for The Games!

Debbie Blair and Marilee Meyers
Trade Show