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I’m waiting for our Daily Now editorial meeting to start at McCormick Place, enjoying the pre-show quiet in the convention center. I’m probably just strange, but I love the last few hours before a conference really kicks off, when most of the building and prep work is done and you can walk around and see the stage set and ready for the play to begin. It’s a nice feeling of anticipation—you’re ready, and you’re excited to start creating a great experience for our members.

It isn’t always that simple, of course. I remember a fun experience at a previous association where our show truck showed up a day late—which clearly threw an enormous wrench into little things like getting our association booth built and stocked, getting signage up, and getting boxes delivered around the convention center. But when most things go as they should, it’s a great feeling to take a deep breath, look around, and enjoy those last few minutes before the show really starts.