This week, San Diego hosted the annual Professional Convention Managers Association. I was a first-time attendee and speaker and proudly wore my First Timer’s ribbon. Here are some things I learned about the experience:

1. It’s really, really hard to give a 15-minute Ted-style presentation.

2. It’s really, really great to attend 15-minute Ted-style presentations.

3. You truly do run into the same 10 people at conventions. (This one is old, but it was more noticeable since I knew fewer people at this event.)

4. The San Diego Convention Center is way bigger than it looks.

5. Wearing new shoes to a convention is stupid. Very stupid.

6. The San Diego Convention Center served an amazing Mexican lunch. Trust me. I know.

7. Hands on Learning Labs using iPads rocks. Interactivity!

8. International Tourism folks attend PCMA. International Export Promotion folks attend IAEE.

9. Hands-on, “bring your own device” sessions are fun and useful.

10. PCMA knows how to throw a closing reception Block Party. Wow.

11. Embrace change! Don’t be afraid to experiment with your conference or show. Trying new things may not always work but sure does keep it fresh.

12. Subscribe immediately to the Velvet Chainsaw Consulting blog. They walk the walk in changing up the conference and association experience. (Full disclosure, I’ve been reading their blog for quite some time and they were the ones who invited me to speak at PCMA. Thanks!)

Have you attended a conference or expo recently that inspired or really taught you new stuff? Do your events do that for stakeholders? If not, why not?

Stephanie Selesnick, CEM is President of International Trade Information, Inc., a Los Angeles, CA-based boutique international exhibition management and conference company founded in 1972. ITI has always had an international focus—whether launching shows in other countries or bringing foreign exhibitors and visitors into U.S.-based exhibitions  and events. Reach her at stephanie@intltradeinfo.com and follow her on Twitter @StephSelesnick.