I just got back from ShareASale ThinkTank 2010, which took place October 18-20, 2010 at the Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay, CA.
ThinkTank wasn’t a typical affiliate network event. It’s exclusive, and all invited affiliates (there is an application process) are treated to the accommodations, food, and entertainment.
The first day started with attendees playing golf with CEO Brian Littleton. I didn’t make it out to the course this year, because I was still traveling from BlogWorld in Las Vegas.
That sure was a nice golf course (I’m guessing from just looking at it, since I’ve never played), and just as I did last year, I again vow to learn how to play, so I can take advantage of the networking and fun on the course at the next ThinkTank.
Afterwards, I met up with a bunch of folks at the local sports bar to catch some ALCS action (boo Rangers!), and managed to catch a photo exclusive as noted iPhone fan Robert Scoble fell in love with the Blackberry Torch.
This was followed by a welcome reception overlooking the Pacific ocean that was great for catching up with old friends in the industry and meeting lots of new ones.
The evening also included a screening of “Life in Perpetual Beta,” a documentary film about the ways in which technology has/is/will change the ways in which we think about ourselves as individuals and a society.
Thankfully, our welcome bag included a nice ShareASale ThinkTank fleece, because it was a bit nippy outside.
The next morning kicked off with a networking breakfast, followed by a series of sessions. I had a chance to sit on panels covering blogging and social media.
After a networking lunch, there were a number of Affiliate-Merchant Private Meetings, where dozens of companies got face time with a bunch of current and future affiliates.
Saturday night was a special, new event called the Wine & OPM Tasting, where attendees had a chance to chat with OPM’s and sample wines at the Thomas Fogarty Winery.
Seldom would I put elegant and affiliate marketing in the same sentence, but here I have to make an exception.
In addition to the wine, there were plenty of hors d’oeuvres and great conversations.
The final day kicked off with yet another tasty networking breakfast.
And then there was the closing ShareASale “Things We Need to Fix” Session.
This is an open forum, hosted by Brian Littleton, President and CEO of ShareASale, where attendees are able to share their thoughts on improvements and changes.
I’d like to give a big thanks to Brian Littleton and his team for a top notch event that was filled with productive business, some really useful tips, new friends, and good times.
Check out the Tweets from ThinkTank with hashtag #thinktank10.
Pictures: ShareASale ThinkTank 2010