I recently had the pleasure of attending the SYNKD Live Event in Atlanta for the first time, and I must say, I came away very impressed! For those who may not be familiar, SYNKD (https://www.synkd.io) is a “multi-media company that aims to connect the landscape design, build, and maintain sectors through regional publications, live events, and valuable resources.” This mission aligns closely with my own passion for collaboration and innovation within the landscape industry.
SYNKD Live was held at the Gas South Convention Center in Duluth, Georgia, a venue that proved to be both beautiful and accommodating. The space was perfectly suited for the variety of talks, exhibits, and networking opportunities, with a layout that made navigating the event effortless. From the seamless registration process to the well-orchestrated event flow, the organizers’ attention to detail was evident, ensuring a high-quality experience from start to finish.
A Well-Run Event
One of the standout aspects of SYNKD Live was how impeccably organized it was. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that significant thought had gone into every aspect of the event. The staff was welcoming and helpful, the signage was clear and intuitive, and the schedule was followed with impressive precision—a rare and appreciated quality at events of this scale. Breaks were thoughtfully timed, providing ample opportunity to explore vendor booths, grab a snack, or connect with fellow attendees without feeling rushed. The SYNKD team’s commitment to excellence was evident throughout.
Insightful Speakers and Dynamic Discussions
The speakers and round table discussions were another major highlight of SYNKD Live. Industry leaders and experts shared insights on a variety of topics, all of which felt relevant and impactful. A few speakers stood out in particular:
Franco D’Ascanio, President of D’Asign Source, delivered an engaging presentation on how to grow big in a small market, offering practical advice and inspiring anecdotes.
Justin White, CEO of K&D Landscaping, shared the remarkable journey of building a $20M powerhouse in the landscaping industry from humble beginnings.
Sal Hernandez, Founder of Pacific Breeze Building Solutions, captivated the audience with his talk on cultivating leadership, leaving everyone feeling motivated to improve their own organizations.
The round table discussions provided an intimate setting to dive deeper into specific topics. I especially enjoyed the sessions on improving communication between contractors and designers, as well as the conversation about the future of workforce development in our field. These discussions were candid, thought-provoking, and solutions-focused, making them invaluable to attendees.
Impressive Vendors and Exhibits
No industry event would be complete without a vibrant vendor hall, and SYNKD Live delivered in spades. The range of exhibitors was remarkable, featuring everything from cutting-edge tools and equipment to innovative materials and solutions. I had the pleasure of connecting with several vendors who were not only knowledgeable but also passionate about their products.
A few highlights included:
Marmiro Stones (https://marmiro.com): Their booth showcased a stunning line of natural stone and stone veneers.
Platipus Tree Anchoring Systems (https://platipus.us): Casey Clapp’s demonstration of their innovative tree anchoring systems was very interesting.
Coastal Source (https://coastalsource.com): Jon Bowman’s presentation of their outdoor audio systems was a standout—some of the finest I’ve ever experienced.
These are just a few examples of the many outstanding vendors present, each contributing to the overall value of the event.
Why You Should Attend SYNKD Live
If you’re considering attending SYNKD Live in the future, here are a few compelling reasons to make the trip:
Networking Opportunities: The event brings together professionals from across the design, build, and maintain sectors, creating the perfect environment for forging meaningful connections. Whether you’re seeking collaborators, mentors, or peers, SYNKD Live has something for everyone. I made some great connections.
Educational Value: The curated lineup of speakers and discussions addresses both current challenges and future opportunities, leaving you with actionable insights and fresh ideas to implement in your work.
Vendor Engagement: The vendor hall is an invaluable resource for exploring a wide range of products and services. You can ask questions, see demonstrations, and discover solutions that you didn’t even know you needed.
Inspiration: There’s an undeniable energy that comes from being surrounded by like-minded professionals who share your passion for landscape architecture and design. It’s both invigorating and motivating.
My Personal Recommendation
In summary, my experience at SYNKD Live was outstanding. The event excelled in every area: education, networking, inspiration, and innovation. It’s clear that the SYNKD team is dedicated to fostering a stronger, more connected industry, and their efforts are paying off.
I highly recommend attending SYNKD Live to anyone in the landscape design, build, or maintain sectors. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, there’s so much to gain from this event. Personally, I’m already looking forward to next year and can’t wait to see how SYNKD Live continues to evolve and elevate our industry.
If you’ve been considering attending, let me assure you—it’s absolutely worth it!
~ Eric
Comments