After the return of our live events in 2023, Allbrands.com is gearing up for another season of Allbrands Academies at our stores in the late summer/early fall. I recently sat down and talked with Courtney and Barbara on what you can expect when you attend one of the events.
What’s a typical day like at Allbrands Academy?
Courtney: Expect two full days of education and creating new friendships. You will rotate to different teachers who will teach you new techniques on the latest machines Brother has to offer. Classes are structured with fewer attendees per class so you get more of a one on one experience. With endless giveaways and raffles throughout the day everyone leaves a winner.
Barbara: In the morning, we’ll have coffee and donuts, followed by meetings and shopping. Then, we’ll have opening sessions with giveaways and more! You’ll receive your opening packets and t-shirts, along with savings on merchandise in the store. After that, classes will begin. We have a round-robin style format, so there will be smaller breakout rooms, and attendees get tons of attention and support. It’s also a great way to get to know your classmates well! We’ll have a fantastic lunch and then more classes until raffles, giveaways, and grand prizes at the end. It’s an enjoyable and educational experience where you can make new friends.
What do I need to bring to the event?
Courtney: Your favorite pair of snips and a jacket if you get cold. That’s it we provide the rest!
Barbara: We provide everything that you need! We feature Brother’s latest and greatest technology.
Do I need to bring my own machines?
Courtney: Not at all we provide all the machines you will need for the event. This way everyone has the same features on their machines and no one has to worry about traveling with their machines.
I don’t own a Brother Scan N Cut – can I still attend?
Barbara: Of course! We provide Scan N Cuts and all supplies needed to learn.
My friend also wants to attend, can we be in the same group?
Courtney: Absolutely, when your register please list their name or names under who you would like to sit with.
Barbara: Of course! Although you will be at your machine, we can put you and your friend in the same classroom if you request it during registration.
What’s the difference between Allbrands Academy and a Masterclass?
Courtney: Allbrands Academy is an in person event over multiple days on many subjects. A Masterclass is a virtual course on one subject in extreme detail.
Barbara: AllBrands Academy is an In-person event with Brother experts and educators over 2 days of learning. A Masterclass is a virtual environment where you can learn at your home from your computer in a personal setting.
Do I need to bring my own drink/snack/lunch?
Courtney: We provide drinks, snacks and lunch on both days. If you have any dietary restrictions please let us know when you sign up so we can accommodate them.
Barbara: We have beverages, lunch, and snacks provided each day.
Do I get anything special from coming to the event?
Courtney: In your packet you will get a variety of surprise goodies like an AllBrands Academy shirt. You will also get special coupons and deals that are only available to attendees of the event. And don’t forget about the giveaways and raffles happening every single day.
Barbara: We provide designs and instructions if they are available after the event. You will also have a USB stick to save designs you may make during class. Sometimes, we get to create unique projects.
I went to the event last year/in previous years are the projects new?
Courtney: Brands new projects and classes with new machines that will have just come out from Brother!
Barbara: Yes, the projects are all new for events in a series, so the new events starting in San Antonio and ending in Bossier will have new projects from previous events.
When will you be coming to my city?
Courtney: So far we have announced we will be coming to San Antonio. Make sure to follow us on social media and our email newsletter to be the first to know when we release more dates.
Barbara:
- San Antonio August 23-24 Weekend 1 – Sold Out!
- San Antonio September 6-7 Weekend 2
- Lafayette BERNINA September 20-21
- Bossier BERNINA September 27-28
Is there anything that you think someone should know if they are on the fence about coming to the event?
Courtney: Sign up. Trust me we are going to have a lot of fun and everyone always leaves learning something new. I take pride in the fact that we have created an event where people can come together and share their love of creating. We have brought in industry experts and the new top of the line machines from Brother. The events sign up fast so don’t miss out!