Social Media Party for Small Business Is Thursday

Time is running out. So are tickets!

The , co-sponsored by Patch and LocalShops1.com, is Thursday – with a long list of local merchants and nonprofits attending what’s sure to be an informative and fun evening on the panoramic Third Floor of the St. Petersburg Pier.

From 6-9 p.m., local experts will share power tips for promoting small business through social media – from newsletters to Facebook to blogging. 

This is a great chance to see old friends and meet new ones, with American Stage, Saturday Morning Market, Grand Kitchen & Bath, Adult Care & Respite, Sunset Appliances, and Grandma's Auto Care among the guests.

The evening will be fast-paced and fun, a chance to network, sample free appetizers from Bowled Restaurant and seize on useful advice for helping your small business.

Wine and beer will be sold, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Downtown Business Association in St. Petersburg. There will be free massages from Peaceful Warrior Massage, St. Petersburg.

Keynote speaker is , who will discuss how Facebook helped save his business. Michael will offer tips for what to do and what not do on Facebook.

Guest experts include:

• Patch Editors Linda Hersey and Cherlene Willis on how social media can drive consumers to your organization and keep loyal customers happy.
• Jon LaBudde, owner of Jonny Reno's restaurant and publisher of "Blasts From the 'Burg" e-newsletter on email marketing.
• Michele Northrup, a.k.a., Saucy Queen, founder of Intensity Academy  Gourmet Sauces, on how social media helped to grown her business.
• Ebony Grimsley, founder of Above Promotions in Tampa.
• Mo Venouziou, Vice President of LocalShops1.com.
• Blogger Gene "Doc" Webb on the power of the virtual word.

If you go

There is plenty of opportunity to ask questions and meet one-on-one with experts. Both Patch.com and LocalShops1.com will have special promotions and giveaways for business professionals.

Seating is close to sold out, but $20 admission standing room only tickets are  still available for standing room only. A couple of vendor slots still also may be available. You may register online for tickets or vendor space through LocalShops1.com.

At the door: $25 if seats are available, $20 otherwise for standing-room.