I have a 'lean and mean' pocketbook but have heard that this is an event not to miss. I'm in my beginner stage and wonder how much I can get out of the gathering. After all, you only get out what you put in.

Any advice on what I should be prepared for?

Thanks,
John

Hi John,

I assume you are asking for practical suggestions, and based on that assumption, here is my 2 cents worth.

I always bring a notebook for taking notes, as you can expect to see some excellent demonstrations and receive some excellent advice from top professionals in the field.

Plan on wearing clothing that is comfortable for sitting long periods of time as we do alot of sitting. You may want to also consider having some extra cash for making purchases in the vendors room. There are usually specials offered for paints, brushes etc.

There is also ample opportunity for meeting others attending the conference, so take advantage and introduce yourself. I've gleaned much just from conversations among the attendees.

Enjoy the conference,
Mary

I received a special surprise from my wonderful hubby yesterday. We are going to DC.
I am very much looking forward to this experience, and that is an understatement.

Cynthia, I emailed you to reserve two spots if you organize a dinner but I thought I should mention it here as well. I hope it is all right for my better half to come.

As long as I am on that subject, does anyone know if a spouse can come for the Saturday evening banquet or is it for registered people only? It wasn't clear on the registration sheet if you are allowed to order more than one.

I'm Sooooo excited!!

Yes, spouses, friends etc can come to the banquet as long as they have a ticket. You might want to order them soon as every year they announce that people are looking for tickets because they are sold out.

Mary

Is it permissible to bring a camera? Is it advisable?

I am thinking about it especially to see my friend Richard be honored with this award...

Its a long way from California though...

Tony

John,
Although I don't personally bring my camera, lots of the artists do.
Mary

I just booked my ticket and conference today (after months of dragging my feet!) and I'm really jazzed about this.

In case you think you can't afford it, I made my decision to go when I realized I probably couldn't afford NOT to go. I want to take my career to the next level and this is the place to get that shot of energy and knowledge. I went to the New York ASOPA event a few years ago when I was just getting going and it was an invaluable jump start for me.

The sessions and especially the between-session networking and chatting were very helpful. I still review my notes from that event from time to time.

The Hyatt, where this year's event is being held, is offering a $129 room rate if you tell them you're attending the conference. If you share with someone that's an unbeatable deal. I figure if I learn one useful tip that gets me a single additional commission this trip will have paid for itself many times over.

If you think you might want to go you should probably book right away. The Saturday night banquet had filled up when I called today, but they were able to re-arrange the seating plan to fit a few more people in. One of the break-out sessions I wanted to go to had already filled up when I booked.

I personally am most interested in attending the portfolio reviews and Calvin Goodman's marketing sessions. He's kind of THE art marketing guru.

And of course I'm looking forward to meeting all of you Forum participants in person!

Ditto!

I'm sending my evil twin brother.