By Seth Ellison
As KBIS 2023 drew to a close, NKBA CEO Bill Darcy and NKBA EVP & CSO Suzie Williford gathered everyone together at the KBIS NeXT Stage in the Las Vegas Convention Center for a toast to commemorate KBIS 2023 and celebrate the kick-off of NKBA’s 60 Anniversary. “I’m blown away by these last three days,” said Williford. “So much positive energy, and everyone is so happy just to be here.”
To further celebrate, Williford gave away two tickets to the DCW Closing Concert, featuring Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Sheryl Crow, to two lucky audience members. She then invited Caroline Danielson, Director of Showrooms at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and Lighting Gallery, to the stage to announce the winner of Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, and Lighting Gallery’s Headshot contest winner.
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, and Lighting Gallery sponsored NKBA’s free professional headshots during KBIS at the NKBA booth, where nearly 600 headshots were taken. Participants were invited to enter a contest for a free trip to Chicago in April to stay at the fabulous Gwen Hotel and attend a designer panel and architectural boat tour.
Allyssa Warden, CKBD, of Kitchen Concepts Plus, Salisbury, Maryland, took home the prize. Danielson then thanked both hosts for a fabulous show before Darcy noted, “Thank you, Caroline! And congratulations, Allyssa… it should be warmer in Chicago by April for that boat tour.”
Here’s to KBIS 2023!
Everyone was then encouraged to grab a glass of prosecco or water for the celebratory birthday toast – and it was definitely earned. KBIS 2023 was, in fact, one the largest in NKBA’s 60-year history, and Design & Construction Week (DCW), the co-location of KBIS and International Builders’ Show (IBS), recorded record-breaking attendance of over 100,000. KBIS 2023 was one for the books, featuring star-studded galas, industry leader-led seminars, and the freshest, most innovative designs and booths from over 500 leading brands. It really was the ultimate K&B destination to network, exchange ideas, and build businesses.
“Raise your glass,” said Darcy. “Let’s all toast to 60 years of NKBA and its members being leaders, supporters, and innovators in the Kitchen and Bath Industry. Cheers!”
The clinging of the glasses signaled to everyone that the show was almost over, with the final hurrah to be celebrated with rock legend Sheryl Crow, which took place at 5:00 at the Westgate Paradise Event Center.
“Thank you all for attending our show, safe travels home,” said Williford, “and we will see you next year for KBIS 2024 here in Las Vegas!”