I was recently asked for our May issue masthead question, "What was your favorite work-travel destination?" For me, that answer is a no-brainer. Premiere Orlando -- I love catching up with everyone there!

So many nail techs attend that show, and I have to believe it's in part because of the amazing NailTech Network Orlando Social the night before. BeautyTech.com has been hosting this event for many years, and we at NAILS Magazine joined on as co-hosts several years ago (and have been attending for much longer).

It's an event that sells out every year, and it's a casual and fun way to network with other nail techs from around the globe. Dinner is included in the price, and there's a cash bar.

If you're a member of BeautyTech.com, then it'll be fun for you to meet your fellow BeautyTech members that you've been chatting with online in person and face-to-face for the first time.

If you're not a BeautyTech member, then feel free to use my ice-breaker when walking up to strangers at the show: "I love your nails. How did you make them?"

And to get the most out of the event, ask every tech you meet for her business card and jot down notes on it of things you want to follow up on. For instance, maybe she made those nails with a cool technique that you want to know more about. Then, when you get back from the show (I usually block out a day on my calendar), e-mail all of those techs to tell them how great it was to meet them and arrange to get together on Skype to go over nail techniques or to visit their salon the next time you're in their city.

I hope to meet you at the NailTech Network Orlando Social! Please come find me and say hi.

Also say hi to our sponsors, who help make this event possible and who will be introducing you to product lines that may be a great fit for your salon: INM, Kupa, Orly, Light Elegance, ENP, Artistic Nail Design, Belava, Millenia/Gel II, and Gelish.

Buy your tickets here. Tickets are $30 per person.

--Sree