What did attendees think? Check out these four Video Snapshots,
compiled by the New England Grows staff
The inaugural New England Grows' Garden Center Success Seminar delivered the goods to some 300 attendees, many of whom were singing the program's praises immediately afterward.
The seminar, geared strictly for garden center operators, kept attendees active throughout the first leg of the three-day New England Grows event, held in Boston's Convention & Exhibition Center. Despite a winter storm that howled through much of the country, a full line of speakers helped Garden Center Success live up to its name, according New England Grows Executive Director Virginia Wood.
"Honestly, we hit a home run with the program," Wood said. "The weather kept some away ... but those that were here were 'over the moon!'"
One of the participants at the event, which was presented in cooperation with Garden Center magazine, agreed emphatically. "I had very, very positive responses from the participants and the vendors as well," said Ken Lain, owner of Watters Garden Center in Prescott, Ariz., and one of the keynote speakers. "I have to say, 'great job!' to the New England Grows group."
Other keynote speakers at GCS were industry marketing specialist Anne Obarski, who discussed "Are you a retailer or a garden center?," and Jonn Karsseboom, owner of The Garden Corner in Tualatin, Ore., who focused on avant-garde techniques for reaching and retaining customers. Jon Hockman, of the d3 Group in Washington, D.C., served as facilitator of the day-long gathering, which also featured breakaway networking sessions.
Wood said attendees of the seminar offered a number of positive comments on the speaker appraisal forms turned in after the session. Here are highlights:
"This has been the very best retail garden center educational event I have EVER attended! Best speakers! The time flew by!"
"Every speaker was outstanding!"
"Great information presented in a humorous, entertaining way, as well as addressing issues we all share."
"You brought us different perspectives in a well-balanced, fast-moving format."
"I had more meaningful conversations [with fellow retailers] today then I've had all year!"
"Love this new concept! Do it again next year!"
As Day Two was concluding Thursday, Wood said the numbers were up, as more and more travelers were making their way to New England. "We think Friday will be our best day yet," she said. "A lot of people had to push travel back a day, but we think we'll have a good turnout for the final education sessions and trade show."
While Garden Center Success was the focus of Day One, all facets of horticulture were included in the education program, so there has been virtually a "something for everyone" feel to New England Grows, the Northeast's premier trade event. The conference and trade show will continue Friday, wrapping up in the afternoon.