Social Media Club St. Louis brought the town another great event. The focus of the event was local small business owners talking about their use of social networking and social media tools. You can read the event announcement to get an idea of panelists and topics intended.
The event was a success. People streamed in both registered and drop-ins. It was standing room only in the panel room at The Pepper Lounge. Speakers got started late but the crowd was right on time.
Panelists were introduced by Brad Hogenmiller, one of the club’s directors. Each panelist took a stab at telling their story, with background on what they do, and leading into what tools they use. Brad lead the audience in questions to the panel in a round table fashion.
Key focus was on practical business use. That said, there was talk of tools, relationships, and other advice. Most interesting for me was each panelist’s openness and excitement levels about social media.
Greg Bussman, co-founder of St. Louis Social Media Report, was anxious to share about forming relationships and using networking tools to build those.
Chris, aka Rizzo Tees, related his success with selling t-shirts and gathering friends. His story is amazing for the speed of growth he’s experienced and the sheer fun he’s had.
The other panelists went on to share more stories like Chris’s and Greg’s. My only regret is the lack of time to really dig in and uncover some of their best relationships, most successful campaigns, and who they valued the most.
The Pepper Lounge was a comfortable and welcoming venue. Staff members and owner Chris made us right at home, blocking the club out for just the Social Media Club event. Speakers were easy to hear, and there was an actual area for them to sit. Food was available as appetizers only from the adjacent restaurant. The club owner had arranged for a half prize special on all appetizers though. The only down side was the parking. Parking immediately outside the club is metered until 7 PM on week nights.
Social Media Club team members were all present and speaking as a member of that team, I had a good time. One of my favorite parts of the evening was greeting everyone as they arrived. Attendees were a mix of pre-registered and ad-hoc but everyone seemed excited.
Feedback on the event would be quite welcome. It was clear that some attendees enjoyed the networking aftermath as much as the panel; incriminating pictures can be found on Facebook, ning and more.
