I went to an affiliate get-together up in Vancouver in Feb. that was awesome. I have wanted to do one in SoCal ever since. It was very informal - just networking, drinks and dinner. The face-to-face contact and being able to talk to other like minded people - in person instead of on the forums or by IM was simply priceless.

We all work independently and are so isolated. Especially since half the time family and friends don't understand what we do. For most of us, if we were at a normal party and started talking algos, datafeeds, RSS, cookies and spider food, people would think we were nuts. It's so cool to be in a room full of people that are all talking the same language, face the same issues and can relate to working from home as an affiliate.

The folks from AffiliatePrograms.com and I are planning the 1st get-together Sat August 27th from 3 - 5PM. I figured that would give people fun in the Sun/surfing/family time during the day and yet would not interfere with any dinner or party plans anyone had Saturday night. Although after we network anyone that wants to stay and have dinner as a group can. In Canada I think around 36 showed up for networking & cocktails and everyone stayed and had dinner. Some great friendships and alliances were formed.

This 1st meeting will be very fun and informal. The one's that show up will have a voice in planning what type of future get-togethers they want. We are looking for a fun, easy access OC restaurant with a beach patio. Thinking OC so it would be fairly easy for LA folks or even all the affiliates down in San Diego to come.

Sound good? Anyone interested in coming?

We are also thinking about planning one in Santa Barbara Sat nite before CJU starts on Sunday. That would be Sat Sept. 17th. Any takers for that get-together?

Linda

Especially since half the time family and friends don't understand what we do. For most of us, if we were at a normal party and started talking algos, datafeeds, RSS, cookies and spider food, people would think we were nuts.

Too bad I don't live in SoCal. I'd so be there.

I was just thinking that very thought above as I was walking to the post office today on a lunch break. Sometimes you just want to "nerd out" - as I call it - about these topics with a face-to-face person because you love it so much.

But for most people who work as a corporate SEO/SEM for a single entity, alas, forums are all you have as far as peer-to-peer interaction.

Great idea. Good luck. Maybe I should plan one for Atlanta...
Natasha "That Girl From Marketing" Robinson

Hi Natasha "That Girl From Marketing" Robinson,

I know about a BBQ for affiliate marketers on August 7 in NJ.
At least it's on the right side of the country. :p

Sorry forgot to let you guys know this event was cancelled due to a variety of issues outside of anyone's control. (Not my idea). We will work to re-schedule another meeting as soon as we can and will let you know.

Several of us are still trying to organize a party at CJU up in Santa Barbara in Sept. Waiting on CJ to post an agenda so we know what evening would be best without conflicting with any scheduled CJ events.

Thanks, Linda

Waiting on CJ to post an agenda That may happen if they can get their site functioning again some time before the first of the year. ;)