First-Timers’ Orientation

Wednesday, July 11, 5–6 pm
Is this your first Build Business conference? Plan to attend this special networking session for new attendees. SMPS leaders will be on hand to talk about what you can expect to see, hear, and do at Build Business. Gain tips for maximizing your conference experience and learn how getting involved in SMPS can help you build your business and advance your career.

Welcome Reception

Wednesday, July 11, 6–7:30 pm
Welcome to Build Business: Let the networking begin! Meet old friends and make new business contacts while enjoying drinks and hors d’oeuvres in the Networking Pavilion. Visit with the conference sponsors who can help you find strategic business solutions to collaborate better, work smarter, and build your firm’s bottom line. After the reception, enjoy dinner on your own and a free evening to explore all San Francisco has to offer!

San Francisco Trolley Tour

Wednesday, July 11, 7–9 pm
See San Francisco’s famous landmarks aboard an authentic motorized cable car! Join the SMPS Foundation for a two-hour tour through San Francisco's most scenic neighborhoods including Fisherman's Wharf, North Beach, Chinatown, Civic Center, and Union Square—plus see Golden Gate Park and the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point. While you take in the sights and network with fellow Build Business attendees, enjoy light refreshments and beverages (beer, wine, water).

Please meet in the Market Street Foyer at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco at 6:45 pm for departure. The trolley will pick up and depart from Market Street. The trolley is partially open: Please bring a jacket for your comfort. Part of the proceeds from the ticket sales will support the future work of the SMPS Foundation.

Tickets are $49/person ($20 per ticket will be donated to the SMPS Foundation); the trolley tour is not included in any conference registration package. Purchase your ticket online when you register for Build Business or, if you are already registered for conference, just fill in your name, phone number, and payment, and fax or mail the printed registration form to the SMPS National Office.

Morning Yoga

July 12 and 13, 5:30 am
Find your center and achieve a little extra balance through yoga before beginning a high-intensity day of learning and networking at Build Business. Look for details at the Conference Registration Desk when you check in for Build Business. [There may be a nominal fee for mat rental.]

Networking Pavilion

Thursday, July 12, and Friday, July 13, 7:30 am–4 pm
Everyone wins in the Networking Pavilion! The Networking Pavilion is the place to be for conference receptions, complimentary meals, and refreshment breaks. Hold impromptu meetings with colleagues and clients. Consult with representatives of the conference’s sponsoring companies to discuss your business challenges and learn about new marketing and business development resources. Many of the business solutions you are searching for can be found in the Networking Pavilion.

SMPS National Awards Gala and After Party

Thursday, July 12, 7–Midnight
This glittering celebration honors excellence in A/E/C communications and Society leadership in 2011–12. Enjoy an elegant dinner and applaud award-winning business-building ideas produced by innovative industry firms. Join SMPS leaders, industry media, and your peers to find out who will take home the Weld Coxe Marketing Achievement Award, National Marketing Communications Awards, Chapter President of the Year Award, and Striving for Excellence Awards. The 2012 Class of SMPS Fellows and 2011–12 Class of CPSMs also will honored during the Gala.

After dinner, the party gets down to business! Dance the night away and enjoy an unforgettable evening celebrating in style with old and new SMPS friends at the After Party.

Attire is formal. Admission to this event is included in the Full Registration, Guest Registration, and Thursday-Only Registration packages. Gala-only tickets and tickets for clients, colleagues, or guests are $150/person. Register online or use the printed registration form to buy tickets for your guests.

Tuxedo Rental

Pickup: Wednesday, July 11, 2–5 pm
Are you in need of a tux for the Awards Gala? Tuxedo Fashions is offering conference attendees a special rate on tuxedos pictured at www.tuxedofashions.com. Rent a complete package for $95 when ordered by July 8, 2012. Tuxedos can be returned to the Hyatt Regency San Francisco bell desk before noon on Friday, July 13. To reserve your tux at this special rate, go to call 408.294.3311 or email cs@tuxedofashions.com. Please identify yourself as an SMPS conference attendee to get the special rate.

Networking Luncheon and SMPS Business Meeting

Friday, July 13, Noon–1:30 pm
Connect with your peers over a business-building lunch! During a brief association business meeting, SMPS National President Frank Lippert, FSMPS, CPSM, will report on the initiatives undertaken by the Society in 2011–12, and the 2012–13 National Board of Directors will be introduced. In addition, SMPS Foundation President Donna Jakubowicz, FSMPS, CPSM, will provide an update on the work of the Foundation. Door prizes will be awarded during the networking luncheon, including a free conference registration to attend Build Business 2013 in Orlando. (You must be present to win.)

Build Business Block Party Hosted by SMPS San Francisco

Friday, July 13, 6–10 pm
SMPS San Francisco is throwing a block party to help mark the closing of Build Business: Take Action and to celebrate its 30th anniversary.  The block party will take place at 111 Minna Gallery, located at 111 Minna Street in San Francisco's South of Market district, just five blocks from the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Outside, food trucks from Off The Grid San Francisco will provide the best in local vendors that have heightened portable gourmet from take-out to break-out.  Inside, two bars will keep the libations pouring to help wash it all down.  And live mash-up music will keep the crowds moving around, so mingling will never be a problem. Learn more and register today!