 On August 22nd, 23rd and 24th
2003, I attended my first Letterhead Meet. Apprehension quickly
dissipated as the migration of Letterheads converged into Pierre
Tardif’s shop in Quebec City. Familiar faces showed up, faces that I had
written to, but never talked to. Faces that I had talked to, but had
never seen. A smile on everyone’s face gave me an indication that there
was something special about to happen. It seemed like the ice had been
broken a long time ago.
Everyone that attended were welcomed with open arms by Pierre Tardif,
his family and his friends. The meet was very well organized right down
to bus tours of old Québec City and golf outings.
Amazement was the order of the day as I observed talent being displayed
minute by minute. If talent per square foot was measurable, records
would have been broken. Not being sure of what one was to do at a
Letterhead meet, I opted to observe and soak in as much as I could. Tips
and tricks took on whole new meaning during the weekend. You can read
all the step by step books you want, but to see it in action is a whole
different scenario. To see veterans like Bill Riedel demonstrate
different practice brush strokes, or Joe Cieslowski’s carving techniques
was awesome. To observe Pete Payne’s skills in glass gilding from start
to finish was a treat in itself. And to see the look on André Tardif’s
face (Pierre’s dad) when Pete offered him one of the three finished
"Molson Export" mirrors that he had just completed was priceless. It
left him speechless!
Letterhead meets are unique. Generosity is displayed in the unselfish
spreading of knowledge, talents and skills. The panels exchanged, or
given as gifts is an extension of that generosity. Friendships are
created. The desire to improve your skills and learn new ones is
renewed.
My first meet should have been in Mazeppa in 1999 but health issues in
the family prevented my participation in meets until this year. I feel
fortunate to have gone to Québec City for my first meet because rumor
has it that it was one of the best ever held. The food was awesome and
the talent was out of this world! What else does one want? I came to
realize what these meets are all about. The Letterheads are a family,
and a talented one at that! I got the bite and fortunately there is no
cure.
Thanks to the relentless meet attendees and the Original Letterheads for
planting this seed years ago. Make sure you plan to attend your first
meet as soon as possible!
Mario G. Lafreniere
J&N Signs
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