When AVN announced they were going virtual for another year, XBIZ quickly announced their new show: X3.
Not sure what X3 is? XBIZ’s January event has been a B2B (business to business) show for years. Then XBIZ expanded to Miami, where industry models came together and created more of an online creator community. X3 was their next launch: into a fan-centered event, similar to AVN’s.
2022 was the first year of their fan event, and the reviews are IN! Despite being held during a peak time for a certain disease, there was HIGH attendance. Opening day saw lines going DOWN the street from the venue. Early on, it was clear that XBIZ would need a bigger venue next year.
Why did X3 by Xbiz make such a buzz?
Wisely, Xbiz decided to give free tables to models who attended. These tables allowed models to be in a reliable spot during the X3 show. For comparison, these sorts of tables can go for $1,500 at AVN in previous years and $500+ at the Exxxotica shows. With the free table, models also got a few free tickets to give to their super fans. This ensured that the event had plenty of people. It also gave many models a rare chance to meet with their fans. Many indie model fans never go to these events, but this introduction to what porn conventions can be will surely bring them back!
Xbiz also had many different photo opportunities for fans and creators alike. Across from Mary Moody‘s booth stood four different ‘selfie’ booths. With various backgrounds and props, moments like this lead to many taking photos during XBIZ and bringing friends/fans over to quick snapshots. More than a simple step and repeat, these setups called models to interact with their environment.
Xbiz took care of their models!
Like the Cupcake Girl lounge that is often at AVN, XBIZ also had a retreat area for models. Hosted by Pineapple Support, there was a guarded area for models. Somewhere to get snacks, sit down and relax outside of the busy showroom floor. We can see this becoming a requirement for future events that allow models to meet fans. It can be overwhelming for anyone to be out on a show floor and feel constantly stopped for photos. Pineapple Support also advertised a retreat in Malibu to help models unwind and get to know each other better after the show.
Models had a separate entrance which helped with getting and KEEPING talent safe. We may never know why more shows don’t have something similar. It may seem small, but it meant that models weren’t mixed in with fans while waiting to come in. Imagine wearing a sexy outfit and having someone stand behind you in line that you don’t know.
Then imagine having a separate entrance that allows you to get in early and set up with security standing close by. It’s an entirely different feeling and is very much needed when dealing with porn stars!
Another massive compliment? The DJ. The music mixed beautifully with awesome throwback music pumped alongside some new hits. You understand how important this is if you have been to an event where the music sometimes didn’t quite seem to fit. Nothing kills a mood like an ill-chosen song or a horrible transition between songs. The experience felt smooth and kept the venue feeling high energy.
A shout out to the Foxy/New Media Group for having a fantastic booth. Developing a space for models to WANT to come by and create content for you is the wisest thing you can do! We absolutely loved seeing the photos and videos that came out of this stunning booth.
The event ended with confetti flying from the rafters as Busta Rhymes took the stage.
After going through thousands of Tweets and Instagram posts, we are excited to see how this event evolves next year. We highly suggest models and brands alike head out to X3 next year.
