You probably already realize this, but I work for a company that sponsors conferences. As the editor of Simple Talk, I actually get some ability to influence and choose some of the conferences we sponsor, and even some kinds of event we do.
For example, at PASS Summit 2024 (which ended yesterday as I type this editorial,) I was able to hold a breakfast for 100 attendees. It was a no-pressure, no-sales, just food and a few interludes for me to say, “Thank you!” to some great people, “Thank you for being newsletter subscribers” and “Let me make sure you