IFSA takes Texas with Global EXPO kickoff bash
The IFSA Global EXPO Opening Networking Reception was complete with food, drinks and complimentary cowboy hats
An unexpected gate change did not stop the International Flight Services Association (IFSA) from getting Global EXPO officially off the ground in Grapevine, Texas, this evening.
Originally set for the Glass Cactus at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, the Opening Networking Reception moved to a ballroom after the original venue became unavailable. For a crowd well acquainted with last-minute itinerary changes, a little course correction was hardly a reason to rein in the festivities.
Sponsored by American Airlines, with Gin & Juice as beverage sponsor, the IFSA gathering featured complimentary cowboy hats, food, drinks, live entertainment and a keepsake.
Custom initial embossing added a personal touch to amenity kit pouches celebrating American’s centennial, courtesy of the airline. Attendees could choose from three colorways inspired by the limited-edition kits the airline introduced earlier this year to honor its evolution. Each took its cue from a distinct American Airlines livery: Astrojet (blue), Silverbird (grey) and Forward (red).
Inside each pouch were socks and an eye mask featuring the centennial logo, a dental kit, ear plugs, and a Joanna Vargas hand towel, hand and body lotion, lip balm and under-eye patches, a little extra baggage worth taking home.
The custom amenity kit with initials
The reception was co-located with the FTE Global Networking Welcome Party, sponsored by T-Mobile for Business, Assaia and the FTE Global Hall of Fame, with FTE celebrating its 20th anniversary show this year.
Attendees rounded up familiar faces, made new connections and settled in for an evening of Texas hospitality. The venue may have changed, but the destination stayed the same: a lively start to this year’s expo.
See photos from the reception below:
