September 14, 2013 was a busy SQLSaturday day with 6 events across the globe. I happened to find myself in Orlando Floria–the home of SQLSaturday events and I admit I wanted to check out what the originators had planned. With the increased number of SQLSaturday events, there is an increased awareness of what people like and what people don’t like and I figured the Orlando event would be completely rock’in. With an organization team of Karla Landrum, Andy Warren, and Kendel Van-Dyke–all superstars in their own right, I was anxious to see their handiwork. I have to admit I have developed somewhat of a complex at the attitude of some of the speakers and participants about what is and what is not at some events and makes me worried about my own RVA event. I just knew the Orlando event would be THE event.
A last minute cancellation gave me a presentation spot and I was happy to take it. I gave my fair or foul presentation and I may have to pick a different analogy. Not too many sports fan in that session. 🙂
There was a good turnout for the event, and when you have Mickey Mouse in your backyard, there is a lot of competition for your Saturday hours. The event was at the Seminole State College and while it was roomy and let lots of light into the building, it was wasn’t ornate. The vendor area was cozy, but each vendor had a tablecloth and the familiar basket to deposit your SpeedPass. We used three floors of the school and while the school had a normal layout, it took a little trial and error to find your way to your session.
Lunch was served outside as was the end of day raffle. All the speakers were friendly and were asked to help serve lunch. I enjoyed catching up with folks I had seen during the day and serving food provided another opportunity to visit and get to know them. Andy Warren is one of a kind and always one to speak his mind and he was true to form that day as well.
It occurred to me as we were wrapping up, that I have been thinking a little too much about what everyone will think about my event when I know if I put my effort into providing a nice environment for a free day of training, everyone will enjoy it and the community will be better for it. I am so happy to have been had the opportunity to be at #SQLSat232 and for the reminder of why we put these events on.
Carlos, it was good to have you in Orlando! Totally agree with your last paragraph. Run your event, have some fun, remember that the training is what matters – all the rest is icing on the cake. Hope you can make it back to Orlando.
Andy