Conference reflections.

It's that time of year again when everything gets packed away for a new season--out with the light-weight clothing, in with the heavier fall and winter clothing (at least for some). But before we pack everything away, including this year's ad and marketing plans, let's reflect on some great memories from this year's ABA Marketing Conference.

Many of our members turned out for the event. You could spot them by the ABAMN ribbon worn on their name badge. And speaking of ribbons, there were many who sported more than just one--some wore CFMP ribbons as well. Our immediate past ABAMN Chair noted that some members looked as if they were solving in the military. I personally thought it might be a contest of some sort. You know how we marketers love a competition.

The conference featured some fantastic speakers who shared many stories, ideas and takeaways that marketers probably already are beginning to implement. The ABAMN-sponsored marketing roundtable discussions were a hit. Bankers from all over the country participated. And let's not forget this year's ABAMN Ad Awards gala. If you didn't have an opportunity to see the award winning entries displayed at the conference, you can see them again when they are published in upcoming issues of ABA Bank Marketing magazine.

If you didn't make it to this year's conference, plan on forecasting it in next year's budget. You won't want to miss out on South Beach, Miami!