WIT's Ashley Mady Talks Women, Toys And The Annual Expo Breakfast

Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment (WIT), the leading networking and support organization for women working in toys, licensing and entertainment, will be exhibiting for the second year in a row at Licensing Expo 2016. With over 20 chapters worldwide, the forum fosters great relationships, provides priceless connections and resources, and creates limitless opportunity. WIT is a unique culture that inspires, promotes and empowers women to achieve success—collectively, individually, professionally and personally. 

The organization will also host the 5th annual WIT’s Licensing Expo breakfast. Taking place on Wednesday, June 22, from 8 to 10 a.m., more than 100 attendees will enjoy a delicious hot breakfast buffet, fantastic networking, and a lot of fun.

Licensing Expo spoke with WIT President Ashley Mady to find out more about why the organization chose to return as an exhibitor in 2016.

Why is it so important for WIT to exhibit at Licensing Expo?
Most of the toy industry is driven by the hottest licenses and more than half of our membership is involved in licensing in some way, whether they be the licensor, licensee, an agent, a creator or an inventor. Licensing Expo is a place where opportunities collide and where deals are made. It's also a great place to have a booth since many of the toy companies/retailers are walking the floor. All the pieces of the food chain are important to us at WIT.

What are some of the hot topics concerning your members in 2016?
Since our membership is so diverse, there is an array of different topics, but some constants include, primarily, gender in the workplace and the marketplace. Followed by concerns with the collision of content and product and social media/new ways to market to kids and moms.

How will this year's Show address these topics?
There are so many powerful women/change-makers in the licensing business, and so many of them come together to network at the WIT Licensing Expo Breakfast. It's fantastic to be able to connect face-to-face in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where everyone is there to support and help one another. From a trend standpoint, we're really looking forward to see more character/entertainment brands with strong female leads on the Show floor this year!

What advice do you have for women so that they can get the most out of the Show?
If you're new to exhibiting, give people a reason to walk down your aisle and into your booth. Generate as much activity as possible and make your booth stand out. Get the word out that you'll be there before the Show. Put together an email list of targeted prospects and pre-book appointments and meetings. Exhibiting or attending Licensing Expo is a fantastic investment in your business. The conference sessions and keynotes are terrific. Basically, plan your time wisely and reach out in advance to set up appointments. This is where deals get done. And at the very least, you'll make great connections and go home with solid contacts and open invitations for ongoing communication that could lead to your next big deal.

To learn more or to RSVP to the WIT breakfast, click here.