Bacon in Banff-A Social Media Retreat

01/21/13 10:27 PM

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Here are the who, what, when, where, and why of the spring event you don’t want to miss: “Bacon in Banff!”

Click here to see more details on the activities.

Who? What? When? Where? Why?

 

Who?
Some people complain that Royal LePage’s National Conference is way too big. Admittedly, 900 people is a huge group. Some think that HeadStart is better because its only 300. This event is much, much smaller. I will run it with as few as 15 people, and in order to preserve the intimate setting I envision, I won’t allow more than 50 participants at this event.

This is an invite-only event. I am hand-selecting REALTORS who I think “get it” and would help make it a success. If you have someone in mind who you think would also be a good fit, please pass their name to me.

 

What?
The purpose of this conference is to learn, network, explore, eat, and have a blast together. I have named it “Bacon in Banff–a Social Media Retreat for REALTORS,” but let’s call it “Bacon in Banff” for short.

 

 

 I will offer training on the tools and skills I’ve learned, with an emphasis on Twitter and FaceBook, as well as the technology I use for both business and pleasure. Things like using the iPad to sign listings and offers, useful apps and accessories for your devices, photography and video editing and tips, as well as friendly and useful cyber creeping advice (just in case). You will also be expected to share your own knowledge with others so we can all learn and teach. This is not your typical conference.

When?
Opening reception is at 6:00 p.m. Monday April 29th, 2013 and the closing banquet is Thursday night, May 2nd. Sessions are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings, while your brains are fresh. Each session will be followed by an excursion, and lots of free time. With all of the complaints we hear about inadequate downtime for networking or guest-led events, I promise to not overbook you at this conference. Mark your calendars now.

Where?
I have a room block at The Fairmont Banff Springs, and they are offering excellent rates (the benefits of avoiding peak seasons and the weekend). Rates start at an incredibly low $199 for the Fairmont and go to $419 for the Fairmont Gold Deluxe, with several options in between. You should see the Gold Floor at this place!

As for the special events I have planned, Tuesday’s outing is a hike up Johnston Canyon (a favourite spot for my family), which has 2 beautiful waterfalls along the way. Wednesday is a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain, with incredible panoramic views of Banff and her many surrounding mountains. It might be cold up there, so once we descend on the gondola we will head straight next door to the natural hot springs pool. Photo shoot! Thursday is the grand finale. Something I’ve never even done-a Helitour of Winston ice field. When I asked the tour operators what to tell my guests to expect, their reply was, “Tell your guests that they are going to have the time of their life so be prepared for that!” How does that sound?

Why?
While my wife Kelly-Dawn and I were driving to Utah one day to see our newest nephew, we were talking about conferences, and how I always plan extra-curricular activities. She noticed how many people would come out and got the idea that I should plan my own conference and do the training as well. So she gets credit for the initial idea, but I’ve got to be honest, this is largely a selfish endeavour. Just think, I get to hand-pick the guests, I’ve chosen one of the most desirable places on Earth to visit, I get to see my favourite people in the world and make some new friends, I get to eat some fantastic food, and I get to speak in front of everyone. There’s also a chance I will get some business out of the ordeal. So, if you see this as too self-serving, I will understand. For everyone else, I can assure you that you will be equally rewarded by attending.

Cost & Incentive
Early bird cost is $543 for registration, reception, all breakfasts, training, all outings except for the helicopter ride, and the closing banquet (plus a couple goodies).
After January 28, $654.
Optional helicopter ride and lunch and donation to Shelter, add $321.

*Not included in the registration cost: your hotel room, lunch and dinner on Tuesday and Wednesday, spa access, shopping, and treats for me. However, I might be able to help you get a massage for free. The first 10 paid registrants will be entered into a draw to win a 60 minute, 4-handed massage at the incredible Willow Stream Spa, valued at $359. I can’t think of a person in the world wouldn’t want this.

 

-Jerry

REALTOR®, Royal LePage Noralta, Edmonton, Alberta
1-780-966-6537 (Cell, text, iMessage)
@ZoomJer