Immersed in the Experience
The big day arrived and we’re both excited and anxious. It’s time to put what we’ve learned to the test. We picked our ears to more instructions. Ten groups of five were already identified to facilitate carrying out our functions although five pairs were handpicked to be ushers for VIPs.
For four nights and two days, we have what seemed to be but which I cannot consider a “routine” due to daily deviations. Foremost, we (more often, they) arrive on the call time agreed upon the previous night. Ladies must be immediately styled upon arriving at the quarter for obvious reasons. If they are called for duty sometime later, retouch does the trick. Men are ordered to get ready two hours prior the activities where we’ll be needed (e.g., during dinner or plenary) because we’re usually deployed at least 30 minutes before guests enter a hall. It’s a good thing that I can do my own make-up because aside from the 1:10 stylist-protocol volunteer ratio (we’re 52) I hate to see how they cover a guy’s entire face with a single shade of foundation for everyone. At least, I get the look that I want while they are spared of labor for one person although I was always the last to come in the grooming area just to have my hair done.
We stand in different posts every time and we take turns having breaks. Our mentors never went far from us, frequently whispering instructions where to go and when to leave. How we really love our meal stubs!
* * * * *
Twice we’re able to join the delegates in mealtime at the big dining hall; few of our colleagues experienced it thrice. It was a luncheon sponsored by a national broadsheet and a dinner sponsored by a giant TV network. We were in awe as we hear the hosts enumerate the raffle prizes with 5,000 pesos as a minor prize only. I was able to have a short chat with a marketing officer for a big Telco and I’ve learned that she’d attended the past two Ad Congresses prior this. Or at least, that’s how far I’ve inquired.
* * * * *
I wasn’t picked to be a VIP usher originally but one fateful afternoon, a lady and I were asked to relieve a pair who hasn’t had their lunch yet from waiting for Mr. Chris Nelson of Philip Morris Philippines. It was tough to stand for an hour at the lobby on a dress shoe (what more for the ladies who are required to wear slippery stockings and minimum of 2 inches-heeled shoes) but it was tougher to maintain a cheerful mindset despite the pain. Mr. Nelson arrived when the lei was almost wilting but heaven knows what portal did he used to get in hence we had to welcome him when he’s already in the Speakers’ Lounge . He was indeed a gentleman to initiate a handshake.
We had the chance to see some other VIPs up close.
* * * * *
Several of our national TV personalities came but since I’m not much of a screaming fan, I had a close encounter with only a few and it was even unintentional. I feel more disappointed though that I haven’t had my copy of “Good Omens” signed by renowned writer Neil Gaiman who was the prime plenary speaker for the congress since his brief show held on the last day was priced at 1,500 pesos and would accommodate only first 100 registrants for the book-signing.
* * * * *
The Congress was attended by some 3,300 delegates alone hence the diverse personalities. But one thing is manifested: a big percent of these people is wealthy. During the opening and the awards nights particularly, my eyes had been bloated by the sight of well-tailored suits, precious fabrics and glossy shoes. At least they were easy on jewelries, or so it seemed. Who knows how much their stud earrings cost anyway? I wouldn’t be surprised if Miranda Priestly (The Devil Wears Prada) herself would show up that night; we have a fellow usherette who looks like Anne Hathaway.
Our mentors had described these people to be “crazy” and “most unforgiving in the industry”. Thankfully, I came across the appreciative ones although I had heard quite few terrorizing stories from my colleagues. Maybe, a sincere and cheerful hospitality does make anybody’s day.
* * * * *
One of my momentous experiences was the encounter with Mr. Marlon Rivera, President of Publicis Manila – an advertising agency. Some 12 front rows were reserved for finalist agencies for the Araw Awards; Publicis is seated 4 rows from where I was standing. I threw occasional glances on Marlon; his presence cannot be drowned by the crowd. He exudes confidence and power as he sashayed from row to row greeting other advertisers with the social kiss.
He initiated a conversation hence I responded enthusiastically to hold the conversation longer than a hi”.
“You must be Marlon Rivera of Publicis”.
“Yes, I am”.
“I’ve read your article in MetroHIM (magazine) about slacks. It was nice and informative. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“Really?!?”
(His social circle in chorus) “About what?”
“Slacks and pleats”
And on it went.
The Exhibits
The Trade and
Some goodies though are exclusive for delegates only but consolation giveaways aren’t bad either.
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