I have attended every show since '99 with the exception of the last summer show. I have also not paid for a pass for myself nor my staff for the last 3 shows attended, thanks to sponsors, media connections or friends in low places.
Regardless of the free passes, I don't feel that the show, or even the networking opportunities are worth paying for two or more international flights, hotel and general headaches in January this year. I may change my mind, but I'm leaning VERY heavily towards staying in the great white north this year for the first time.
IA2000 used to be a great opportunity. I learned so much, and came home motivated and inspired. The past couple of years I have strengthened a few relationships, but came home cursing the 3 week catch up period and the Visa bills.
Reduced passes are not going to cut it for me. I want a show that is worth my while and effort, and will make me want to rush home to try out the things that I have learned, not kick myself each time.
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They'll say that wouldn't work because of the "riff raff" aspect, but what would make it work?
Go from board to board & have the owners arrange/approve who's going - so they'd come to us & ask for an approved list, we'd start a thread & based on how we knew them, we could approve them for a $25 badge. They'd get assigned a code/password & when they went to buy their tickets, they were only $25 (90% off )
OR
Have sponsors give them out to their top webmasters - sponsors would be able to weed out the trash based on traffic/sales.
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I am not convinced that this would work- there are MANY people in this industry who do not participate on boards, and prefer to remain pretty anonymous. I attended my first show before I even had my first site open. It was a fabulous educational opportunity, and had my attendance required someone to vouch for my credibility, I would have missed out.
Good luck to AVN and their endeavours. I will be happy to give them a shot again when they come up with a plan that makes sense. Until then, I'll avoid the Vegas flu and spend my hard earned dollars more responsibly.