The first time I had the privilege of experiencing Landscape Ontario’s Congress, I was 22 years old and had been working with the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) for just seven days. CNLA’s executive director at that time was Chris Andrews, who informed me I was to wear a suit and tie for the three days I attended to represent the national association. I did my best in that short amount of time to learn about all the programs and services CNLA offered to Landscape Ontario’s members — it was a lot then, as it is now. I showed up early on the first Tuesday morning of Congress to ensure our booth was ready to welcome the Landscape Ontario community. I keenly noticed there was really only one other person in the building wearing a suit and tie — Landscape Ontario’s executive director, Tony DiGiovanni.

I learned quite a bit at my first Congress in 2003. Initially, I couldn’t understand why this event was held in January, but quickly realized it was the right time for landscape business owners to buy materials, equipment, vehicles and services for the upcoming season. I had no idea back then just how large and deep the landscape horticulture industry really was. I was in awe of the scope of the event. No amount of reading about it or hearing stories could have prepared me for it. That first day, I spoke with industry veterans and newcomers alike. I saw specialized equipment I had never seen before.

At the end of the first day, I headed across the street for LO’s Awards of Excellence ceremony. The audience at the opening reception was shoulder to shoulder back then, just like it is now. It felt like everyone at the reception knew everyone — I was starting to get the sense that even though the industry is massive, it is a tight and connected community. As the event started, my jaw hit the floor. The work highlighted that night and at every Landscape Ontario awards gala since has left me in awe of what our members can accomplish.

With my feet sore from being in dress shoes that first day, I was eager to learn more on day two. As waves of people entered the Toronto Congress Centre, I noticed what seemed like strangers stopping to say hello to each other, only to realize they weren’t strangers at all — they had met years ago and were having a chance reunion in the middle of the aisle right in front of our booth. Later that day, I was walking through the show trying to absorb as much as I possibly could — it truly felt like I was drinking from a fire hose. I noticed lots of groupings of people in each aisle. That’s when I realized Landscape Ontario’s signature event is actually a homecoming for members of the landscape horticulture community.

For the Tailgate Party that night, I ditched my suit for more comfortable clothes. Over the roar of conversation and music, the LO team and show committee were welcoming guests. There were people dancing to the music, and many engaged in conversation over their favourite beverage. Another massive gathering for the community.

On day three, after spending some time in the CNLA booth, I visited the conference area. Every presentation I looked in on was filled to capacity with professionals eager to learn. I, too, could have spent all day in those seminars.

My first Congress got me hooked on being part of this amazing community. It was there I learned how connected and helpful this community really is. I learned that Congress is the homecoming event of the year. Congress is where relationships are formed and nurtured and it is where I fell in love with the landscape horticulture trade.

Everyone at my first Congress welcomed me with open arms. Who knew that 21 years later I would return as Landscape Ontario’s executive director, where my new role meant I would continue to be the one wearing a suit and tie at Congress.

Since that Congress in 2003, I haven’t missed a single one. What’s your Congress story?

I hope to see you at Landscape Ontario’s 52nd Congress Trade Show and Conference.

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