As much as I’m a big believer in online marketing, I’m an even bigger believer in all online marketing initiatives being followed up with an offline event.

It’s important to remember that all relationships, including those between customers and products, are solidified when there is some sort of in-person connection.

Think about the first time you met someone that you had a long “email only” interaction with.  The relationship went to a different level as soon as you shared a handshake, right?

Think about the first time you went to see a concert of a rock star that you had heard only on CD.  You became a bigger fan when you saw that artist live, right?  (If you are like me, you probably thought he pointed at you once during the show.)

If you’re trying to build a passionate fan base, whether you’re a person or a product, it’s important that you find a way to bring people together offline.  It makes whatever you’re pitching more tangible, more real, and therefore more valuable.

It’s why politicians have fundraising dinners.  It’s why playing chess in person is so much more fun than playing chess online.  It’s why book clubs exist.

Online is awesome, but don’t forget to turn the switch “off” every once in awhile.

BroadwaySpace is doing its first ever offline event on September 29th.  We’re heading to Planet Hollywood for some grub and to mingle with other Broadway lovers, then heading over to be one of the first audiences to see Memphis.  Food.  Show.  Theater folk.  For only $40.

If you want to go, there are a few spots left.  Visit www.BroadwaySpace.com and scroll down on the left-hand side of the page. Click on “Memphis Meet Up.”  It’s gonna be fun.