Yes I'm Going to SXSW, But Not to Your Party.

It is that time of year again.

The month before SXSW happens in Austin, Texas when tens of thousands of people from around the globe arrive in town. The time when it seems at least half of them will start sending out invites to a drinkup, party or other gathering that they hope you and a few hundred other people will show up at.

I only have to take one look at my inbox to confirm that it is that time of year again.

I'm going to SXSW like I do every year. I love the conference, the people and the city of Austin.

While I've already talked about how I'm nervous at how big it has gotten, I still know that I will find new business and make new friends while in town. This happens every year and I'm sure this year will be no different.

In the past I use to RSVP for a ton of events and then never make them. You can schedule as much as you want, but the truth is that it all goes out the window when you get on the ground. You'll end up grabbing a drink with someone and then suddenly three hours has gone away because you are having such a good time and ten more people showed up and sat down with you.

The other thing is that most of the evening gatherings are too damn big for me to enjoy. Thousands of people crammed into a small space, with loud music and a line around the block is not my definition of fun. Sorry, maybe I'm getting too old. *grin*

Besides Ewan's Breakfast, AllHat and the Wiley Author Party, I'm not sure I'll actually sign up for others, but you are free to invite me.

I just prefer smaller gatherings where you can actually get to know the people around you. I know last year I attended a small entrepreneur dinner put on by Starbucks and Wired that was exactly the sort of event I enjoy. The photo above was a chance encounter with the woman who drew "the fail whale" while me and some old friends caught up.

I wanted to write this so that people knew I'd be attending (and speaking at 3:30 on Friday about Visual Storytelling), but would understand why I most likely won't show up at their party.

I really hope our paths cross while in town. I'm going to be looking to interview people for Passion Hit TV, talk to potential new clients and make a shit ton of new friends.

See you in four weeks!