Networking Events

Love to connect? Then you'll love IRDC, where we provide all the ingredients for productive and enjoyable networking: an intimate setting, a fun and casual atmosphere, and talented, inspiring, influential colleagues and industry experts with which to mingle.  IRDC 2012 included opportunities aplenty, including: 

Welcome Reception
This pre-conference mixer for IRDC attendees, speakers and sponsors was held in a picture-perfect setting on the Chicago Skyline Terrace, Renaissance Chicago Downtown, with a magnificent view of the city's skyline.

Networking Continental Breakfasts
Each morning offered a casual opportunity to grab coffee and pastries, while talking shop with colleagues from every retail sector.

Networking Roundtable Lunches
One of the most popular and anticipated features of the conference, the IRDC Networking Roundtables were hosted by VMSD Advisory Board members, editorial staff and conference sponsors. Attendees were able to choose from a list of topics, and then brought questions, ideas and insights to share with their peers after sharing lunchtime conversation.

IRDC Thursday Night Party
The not-to-be-missed social event of the conference. Partygoers walked across the State Street bridge to BIN 36, a restaurant, wine bar and market in the Bertrand Goldman-designed Marina City complex—just across the river from the Renaissance. The evening was spent sampling selections from the chef’s cheese menu, along with wines and beers from around the world. This annual networking event was the perfect way to wrap up the IRDC 2012 experience, mingling with designers and visual merchandisers from some of the biggest names in retail.