Seasons: The Challenges and Silver Linings of COVID and the Celebration of My First Trade Show in 2 Years
A Season of Challenge
The last year and a half has been challenging - no surprise there. Many companies excelled during the pandemic and others struggled in a variety of ways.
For me, it’s been a season of ups and downs. 2020 began with very limited business travel due to serious shoulder surgery and recovery. Just as I was getting back on my feet and preparing for the 2020 Natural Products Expo West, COVID hit, abruptly ending all travel and in-person meetings.
A Season of Helping
My current client base was too small to keep me busy and new clients were scarce due to spending freezes. Like many, my business, Aperture CPG, took a hit. I put the extra time on my hands to good use, volunteering for RI Commerce and Venture Café. An amazing group of Rhode Island companies and individuals united to help and mentor companies that were severely impacted by the changing business landscape brought on by COVID. It was heartbreaking to see the overwhelming struggles they faced, but rewarding to pitch in and help. Even though my business was taking a hit, helping others overcome their challenges and working with the RI Commerce and Venture Café was my COVID silver lining.
Fractional Executive Services & Brand Marketing
Thankfully, toward the tail end of 2020, clients re-engaged with Aperture’s fractional executive services and brand marketing projects. It’s been tough for people, families, and businesses; I have learned to be patient, let things take their course, and help others.
“To lose patience, is to lose the battle” is a well-known quote by Mahatma Gandhi. I took this to heart, choosing to remain patient with Aperture while looking ahead to a new season and new opportunities.
A Season of Normal
This September, I will head to Philadelphia for Natural Products Expo East (https://www.expoeast.com) - my first in-person trade show since 2019. I’ve missed trade shows - the camaraderie, networking, and engagement with fellow industry colleagues and experts. As I prepare to attend my first trade show in 2 years, I’m excited. I’ve attended Natural Products Expo shows for at least 15 years, and not attending the show for these past two years left a void.
I’m pleased that the event organizers at New Hope have implemented health and safety guidelines to keep those in attendance safe: masks, proof of vaccination or negative COVID test, safety measures for sampling, and handwashing kits.
I anticipate there will be a sense of energy and excitement as industry folks reconnect, meet new companies, and celebrate a return to an exceptional annual event. While virtual trade shows are great as an alternative option, there is so much value in the educational networking opportunities in-person events provide.
A Season of Socializing
I’m really looking forward to the Expo. I’m most excited to meet people in person. I’ll mask up, avoid shaking hands, and rely on the trusty elbow bump as a friendly greeting. As I walk the aisles, enjoying the meet-and-greet moments, I’ll distance myself from others and trust that we’ll all have a wonderful time, even as we work collectively to promote a safe environment for all. Hope to see you there!