So, I did my two days at the SEMA show and I can scratch one thing off my “Bucket List.”. It was AMAZING!
First, you have to realize that this is a trade-show and these exhibitors are showing their wares to people who use them in their business so both make money. So maybe they don’t want to waste time talking with someone who isn’t “in the trades” and it would be understandable; it costs some bucks to be here.
But without fail, these people took the time to answer my questions, and explain it to someone who wasn’t going to be making them money. Some hadn’t even heard of the SEMA Opinion Leader program. After explaining, they were very helpful and also seemed supportive of SEMA’s program.
In my excitement, some of my tweets did not go thru as I exceeded the max. So of the 20 new products I profiled on Twitter, only half went out. I will profile every product on this blog along with the key people/products that I think are cool or would be of interest to every car-guy or person regardless of whether you’re in the trade or not.
The amazing # of cars and their customization is something else. I saw a number of magazine cars from a whole bunch of different magazines; Rides, Rod and Custom, Car Craft, Hot Rod, Lowrides, DUB, etc. These cars are even more incredible in person.
Every trend was represented and then some. If there was a flavor of motorsport; its here! Things that got me geeked up; rat rods, “murdered out”…and of course, metalflake!!
Did I see a ton of things I want?? Hell yeah! I could have burned through 20K in garage tools alone (and there were specials if you ordered/bought at the show- especially an Auto-Twirler and MasterLift; Christmas is coming if anyone is trying to find a gift for me) and I wouldn’t have batted an eye..although the bride would have batted both of them.
There were 11 miles of carpet put down for this show. If that gives you any idea of how big it is.
The other thing is how many cool products are up and coming and that you will be seeing when you go to a car dealer, or tire shop or parts store.
I’m going to get this site updated with pictures and write-ups (and some videos) with links to great sites.
If you’re a SEMA member and like what I’ve done, please tell SEMA, as I’d really like to come back. If not, tell me so I can address it.
Thanks for reading and stay tuned for updates. Also check out other Opinion Leaders’ thoughts on SEMA’s “Enjoy the Drive” site (www.enjoythedrive.com).
Tags: Bucket List, Las Vegas, SEMA, Wangers
