While there was some pre-show chatter about a handful of studios scaling down their show booths (some of which were noticeable; no Zero Tolerance or New Sensations on the main show floor) many companies recycled booths from previous years. Wicked Pictures, ClubJenna, Adam & Eve, Evil Angel, Kickass Pictures and Doghouse Digital booths all made return appearances.
Zero Tolerance and New Sensations both opted to have B2B business suites downstairs from the show floor. Zero Tolerance parked its branded, luxury coach bus on the lower level to greet fans as they registered.
Trade show booths ranged from mundane flea market card tables tucked into the back of the show floor, to the extravagant penitentiary-style booth of Jules Jordan Video. Naughty America attracted a throng of admirers to its booth – a four-bedroom house featuring a backyard replete with fake grass and patio furniture, and even a garage with a Harley Davidson motorcycle parked in the driveway.
“This is our first year with a Jules Jordan Video booth,” Jordan told XBIZ in front of his booth, a prison cell wringed with faux barbed wire. “We’re expecting nothing but success.”
Smash Pictures’ booth employed multiple plasma screen displays and signing platforms for its roster of girls to meet-and-greet fans and media. Nicole Sheridan, Bree Olson, Franchezca and Donna Doll signed autographs at Smash while a stereo blasted loud rock music creating a party vibe.
“The first day was productive for us,” Smash Pictures Vice President Stuart Wall told XBIZ. “Day 1 gives me the opportunity to set up appointments, meet new buyers, meet directors and just overall plan out how the rest of the convention is going to go. I’m here to meet new contacts and grow Smash Pictures.”
Making its debut during the first day of AEE was the trailer to Digital Playground’s much-anticipated fall release, “Pirates II.” Director Joone beamed like a proud father as the promo attracted scads of people to the big screen display at the DP booth. Also notable was Lacie Heart’s first public appearance as the company’s newest exclusive star.
The show’s second day included more of the same, except the fans were allowed on the floor in the late afternoon, which amped up everyone’s energy and brought many adult industry fans face-to-face with their favorite adult stars.