Under a “speakeasy” theme befitting Nashville’s colorful past, AMPP and Carboline created a relaxed atmosphere for conversations over food and drinks during Sunday night’s Opening Reception at the AMPP Conference + Expo 2025.

Carboline has sponsored the Opening Reception for some 25 years, says Melissa Molitor, vice president of marketing for the global manufacturer of coatings, linings, and fireproofing.

“It’s obviously a legacy for us, and we want  to get everyone networking and mingling,” she says. “Everyone's so busy during the week of the conference. So, this is a more relaxed environment that people look forward to, year after year.”

Aaron Raath of Cathtect USA in Sebastian, Florida, says he’s attended the Opening Reception for several years now.

“It’s a great networking opportunity and a good way to settle the nerves and see everyone before the week to come,” he says.

His brother Garreth Raath, also of Cathtect, echoes those sentiments.

“We can generate some real friendships at meetings like this, whereas during the conference itself, it's all business,” he says. “It’s nice to be a part of this industry, connecting, making new relationships, and entrenching those you already have.”

The term “speakeasy” refers to illicit bars or clubs that operated during Prohibition, when the sale of alcohol was prohibited, and Nashville had its share of hidden bars that catered to the city’s thriving music scene.