Back in 2024, while attending ESPC in Stockholm, we discovered that the 2025 edition would take place in Dublin. Within hours, an Airbnb was booked – but that was just the start. Next on the list? Planning our booth.
As always, time flies and events creep up faster than expected. Ideas were thrown around, but one thought stood out from the beginning: Dublin = Guinness. That sealed it – we decided to revive the old Lightning Tools bar and give it an Irish pub twist.
Fast forward to just 3–4 weeks before the show, while we were in Dallas, the artwork deadline was looming. That’s when we learned that the conference centre (CCD) had strict rules: no wooden items allowed unless coated with fireproof paint. Cue a few frantic calls to the venue (special thanks to Kate Bermingham for her help!) and a new plan was born. Every wooden surface needed a primer followed by two coats of specialist fireproof paint. Challenge accepted!
The plan grew to include an expanded design that would encase the fridge and feature shelving for our Lego prize and swag. And for a touch of character, we decided to incorporate some stained glass salvaged from Nicola’s house.
The days leading up to the event were nothing short of manic. It wasn’t just about getting everything painted – it all had to be dry and ready to go, and our swag needed to be collected, too! Every hour counted!
Against all odds, we managed to fit everything into the trusty LT van and set off for Holyhead, ready to catch the ferry to Dublin.
By Monday, the booth was up and running after a few tweaks. That evening, an Indian takeaway nearly blew our heads off – thankfully, whiskey came to the rescue. (Or did it?!)
Tuesday brought a flurry of booth traffic and the arrival of the rest of the team via various flights. For some of us, this was the first time meeting in person, making it a special occasion. The expo hall drinks reception was a hit – Chilled Guinness at our booth (served in limited-edition Lightning Tools glasses) drew quite the crowd.
Later that evening, we enjoyed part one of our Christmas celebration with a lovely meal at Fade Street Social. With only Carl missing after his recent move to Thailand, it was a great team bonding evening.
Wednesday was another busy day, highlighted by Brett’s packed lunchtime session on DeliverPoint and permissions management.
It was also a chance for some more team pics, a rare occasion to get all us in one room:
Some of the LT Team on the booth
The official party at the Guinness Storehouse was unforgettable – stunning views, rich history, and a night that started with pints and food bowls and ended with dancing.
Thursday saw some of the team head home, but the excitement wasn’t over. We were thrilled to win Best Sponsor Booth by public vote!
Interest in our Lego Ideas Grand Piano giveaway was huge, and congratulations to Janneke Spiekerman for taking home the prize.
After packing down, the original four who had set out on Sunday (Brett, Matt, Nicola & Jarrad) enjoyed a final meal at “The Bank” before the ferry back to Wales on Friday morning.
Save the date: ESPC 2026 at the RAI in Amsterdam, 30 Nov – 03 Dec.
See you there!
