55 march 27-29 | charleston, sc
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harleston, South Carolina, also known as the “Holy City”, played host to OGR’s 55th Annual Conference & Supplier Showcase. The conference took place in the heart of downtown Charleston, giving attendees the opportunity to explore the city when they weren’t in session. With a focus on building better relationships in their communities, this year’s conference provided attendees with opportunities for networking with industry suppliers, a florist, a mortuary science professor, and consumer anthropologists. The Supplier Showcase was held next door to the general session for the second year running, allowing attendees to browse products and services and conduct business with the exhibitors. Attendees picked up information and tips relating to their profession throughout the conference. Keynote speakers Kizer and Bender gave practical tips on how to update the selection room to meet families’ everevolving needs, resulting in rave reviews for their session. Jake Johnson of Johnson Consulting gave a detailed breakdown on how to evaluate a business for selling or buying, while licensed florist Waneita Bovan shared ways to improve the florist/funeral director relationship and how to handle those pesky 1-800 flower boxes. Valet services and a wine hour during visitation were a few of the ideas Carolyn Thompson of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science offered 6
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in her session on concierge services. Thompson, a former event planner, brainstormed with attendees on additional services they can offer to families. The educational sessions ended with a lively session by songwriter and radio host Patrick Henry on building customer loyalty. In addition to the Awards Luncheon, where OGR members were recognized for their accomplishments, and the Scholarship Auction, the most raved about event was the Annual Banquet & Board Installation, turned Roaring 20’s Casino Night. OGR members dressed in their best 20’s attire and enjoyed a decadent dinner in one of the hotel’s historic ballrooms. The evening included a 4-piece Charleston swing band, dance instructors, five casino tables, and a golden photo booth. Prizes were given to the best dressed and the biggest winner at the tables. The casino night was so popular that the casino tables and band stayed an additional hour, and OGR members requested that 2015’s Annual Banquet include another casino night. Visit www.facebook.com/goldenrulefh to view pictures from this year’s conference or www.ogr.org/presentations for recorded presentations and conference materials.