When I look back at the big fuzzy ball of excitement and emotion that has become my fused memory of this year’s APP Conference, I can’t help but inhale a contemplative breath of satisfaction and wonder. This year was my first and I was fortunate to be awarded the Al D. Scholarship; it gave me a view beyond simply attending.

The event and location were not at all what I had expected. As it turns out I thoroughly enjoy Vegas, which came as quite a surprise being a tree-dwelling hippy! Before the Conference began, I took the time to look around; wandering the streets it was easy to spot other piercers doing the same. We definitely took over Vegas!

Cherry picking my highlights I would have to say the first few volunteer meetings were an unforgettable experience. Such an amazing collection of wacky and wonderful people gathered for a collective cause. I felt instantly at home and quickly part of the volunteer family. Helping with attendee reception during Registration was particularly electric. All the attendees lining up down the hall with anticipation. An incredible hubbub.

Another favorite moment was the privilege of covering the Expo door just as the Members-only hour started. It was so fun to be part of that hour long piercer Christmas!

I had a particular fondness for 45 piercings in 45 minutes. This was a fast paced video reel of quick edit videos showing the few seconds before, during, and after the execution of a piercing from a head cam worn by the piercer.

Also, I never realized how many Members-only sessions there would be. While there were so many classes available to every piercing attendee, the Members-only sections were quite different. Delving deeper and longer into the discussion material.

But fun and memorable aside, I wasn’t just attending as Nici the piercer and volunteer. I was also there as Nici the first president of the UKAPP and for that, I had many many educational and eye opening moments. Seeing the well-oiled machine that is Caitlin and Conference – together still learning and growing, becoming ever more tight knit – showed me that the UKAPP holds the potential for something great. It has the potential to become a thing that really can benefit both individuals and the industry mutually.

For example, the doubling up of speakers in each class was possibly accidental genius. Having multiple opinions on each topic, varied experiences, and often even moments of yin and yang techniques was eye opening and definitely something I appreciated and will take home.

In short, I learned a lot, made dozens of new and future friends. I had some fantastic new experiences. I pushed my personal limits and boundaries. I met some of my heroes and bought some amazing jewelry. I will definitely make it my goal to return each and every year possible.

I’d like to take this opportunity to urge you to get to next year’s Conference and if you’re struggling, please apply for one of the scholarships. Also to say a huge thank you to everyone that helped me get there this year. You were right, I needed to go and it did change my life.