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“Give them sweet memories.”
It was an unexpected suggestion from one of the Smashing event organizers when I asked for guidance on this article. But then, so much of the week had been unexpected. As a baby dev, volunteering at industry events is a no-brainer; I’ve been to nine this year, and this Smashing Conference has definitely been the standout.
There was none of the frenzied desperation that characterizes so many conferences; rather, the atmosphere was relaxed and casual. I talked to anyone who didn’t actively flee my approach, so by the end of the week, I’d spoken with guests, speakers, sponsors, fellow volunteers, catering staff, and the bouncer at the afterparty. Most people described the week as “fun” and “intimate,” not what one usually expects from a tech conference, although returning guests clearly did expect it.