Reflections on my first party in nearly 2 years

I made my (admittedly brief) appearance at the DLF/WILD/IESNY/IALDNY holiday party last night and it was amazing to see the energy in the room. If you're inclined to social gathering (which so many in the industry are) then events like holiday parties are making a welcome return.

I was asked a few times last night how things were and how busy are things - all manner of the age-old "how's business?" There are, of course, headwinds facing our industry. The global chip shortage is unlikely to ease until well into the new year, the port situation is getting better, but won't be back to normal for months and there are worries of inflation raising prices too quickly and credit tightening.

But last night as I walked through the room and saw so many familiar faces and felt so much positive energy, I couldn't help but feel buoyant. I suppose I'm an eternal optimist, but it is my belief that despite the difficulties we've faced and the ones we will be facing in the new year, our industry will be in a better place by the holiday season of 2022.

Beyond the raw energy, the mindset shift I'm sensing in the industry is also powerful, a new generation of designers, manufacturers and reps are emerging and there is a greater sense of community and responsibility than ever before.

I think of all we've overcome and all we will overcome and I'm filled with respect and admiration. Most of us are doing our best, and that is more than enough. All I can hope to do is my own small part.

For one more week, I’m running a survey of my specifiers to figure out you would like to learn about light and lighting products in 2022. If you fill out the survey, you’ll get a little thank you to help with the holiday shopping this year.