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Call for Proposals | 2027 International Personalization Expo

2027 APA Expo Call for Proposals Submit a Proposal to Speak at the International Personalization Expo Horseshoe Las Vegas | February 23–26, 2027 The Awards and Personalization Association (APA) is now accepting education proposals for the 2027 International Personalization Expo, taking place February 23–26, 2027 at the Horseshoe Las Vegas. The APA Expo is the personalization industry’s must-attend event, bringing together retailers, suppliers, and vendors focused on small‑format personalization. The Call for Proposals invites industry professionals to share practical knowledge, real‑world experience, and proven techniques with a highly engaged audience. Submit a Proposal The deadline to submit a proposal is Monday, July 27. Call for Proposals Overview APA is seeking education sessions that focus on the “how‑to” of what personalization professionals do best. The 2027 Call for Proposals emphasizes actionable learning, skill‑building, and real‑world application. Proposals may include: Back‑to‑basics techniques and foundational skills Practical shop applications and workflows Software and equipment deep dives Sales and business strategy sessions Marketing approaches for personalization businesses Emerging tools and technologies valued by today’s maker community and trophy shops Sessions should provide attendees with insights they can apply immediately in their businesses. Who Should Submit a Proposal APA encourages proposals from professionals across the personalization and awards industry, including: Retailers and shop owners Suppliers and manufacturers Industry vendors and service providers Makers and customization specialists Business, sales, marketing, and production leaders Whether you are new to presenting or a returning APA Expo speaker, your perspective can help strengthen education and connection across the industry. Session Levels and Focus Proposals may be designed for: Beginner audiences building core skills Intermediate audiences looking to refine processes Advanced audiences ready for deeper technical or strategic exploration All sessions should prioritize: Meaningful skill‑building Practical, real‑world problem solving Fostering connection and shared learning within the personalization industry Submit Your Proposal Education proposals for the 2027 APA Expo in Las Vegas are now open . If you have any questions, please contact Alisha Coplin, Education Manager, at acoplin@personalizationpros.org

Systems Before Square Footage: The Roadmap from Home Laser to a Profitable Storefront

Many laser entrepreneurs dream of expanding into a storefront, but growth without the right systems can quickly turn excitement into overwhelm. In this webinar, Cheyenne McPherson, founder of Paisley Co Design and the Laser Branding Collective, shares the real roadmap behind her transition from a home-based laser business to a profitable storefront. Rather than focusing on equipment or space first, Cheyenne walks through the foundational systems that must be in place before expanding — from workflow and pricing to B2B partnerships and repeatable revenue streams. Attendees will gain practical insight into how to build structure before scaling so their business can grow sustainably and profitably. During this session, attendees will learn: The real cost of expanding too soon and why many laser businesses struggle after opening a storefront How to build structure before you scale, including operational systems that support growth How to move from one-off transactions to repeatable revenue, including B2B partnerships How a physical location can become a strategic advantage, not just an added expense How to know when your business is truly ready to expand

2027 International Personalization Expo

Las Vegas | February 23–26, 2027 The 2027 International Personalization Expo is a must-attend event that brings together retailers, suppliers, and vendors from across the awards and personalization industry. Held February 23–26, 2027 in Las Vegas, the Expo provides hands‑on education, face‑to‑face networking, and direct access to the products, equipment, and services shaping the future of personalization. Whether you operate a small personalization shop or manage a growing multi‑location awards business, the Expo offers insights you can apply immediately to improve efficiency, quality, and profitability. Why Attend the 2027 International Personalization Expo The International Personalization Expo is built for business professionals who want to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. Attendees benefit from: Education sessions focused on real‑world application Technical training and production‑focused learning Business and marketing strategies tailored to personalization businesses Direct access to suppliers, manufacturers, and industry vendors on the show floor Networking with peers from across the United States and beyond The combination of education, networking, and product discovery makes the Expo a must‑attend event for the personalization industry. Education Designed for the Personalization Industry Education at the 2027 International Personalization Expo focuses on practical strategies and proven techniques. Sessions are led by industry professionals who understand the challenges of running and growing a personalization business. Topics may include: Personalization production methods and workflows Laser, UV, rotary, and print‑based processes Shop operations and efficiency improvements Sales, marketing, and customer engagement strategies Technology trends impacting personalization businesses Sessions are designed for business owners, managers, and production staff, offering value across experience levels. Explore the Expo Hall in Las Vegas The International Personalization Expo Hall is the centerpiece of the event, bringing together suppliers and vendors serving the awards and personalization industry. In the Expo Hall, attendees can: See equipment and materials in action Compare solutions from leading industry suppliers Discover new products and services Connect directly with manufacturers and vendors For many attendees, the Expo Hall is where education turns into informed purchasing decisions. Networking Opportunities at APA Expo Beyond sessions and exhibits, the 2027 International Personalization Expo offers multiple opportunities to connect with peers from across the industry . From scheduled networking events to informal conversations throughout the week, the Expo creates a collaborative environment where professionals share ideas, experiences, and solutions. Who Should Attend The International Personalization Expo is ideal for: Personalization and awards retailers Makers getting started on their business Equipment and material suppliers Industry vendors and service providers Business owners, managers, and operators Sales, marketing, and production professionals Plan Your Visit to Las Vegas Additional details about registration, hotel accommodations , education schedules, and special events will be released leading up to the Expo. The 2027 International Personalization Expo takes place February 23–26, 2027 in Las Vegas . We encourage attendees to plan early and check back for updates and key deadlines.