We decided to experiment with providing an offline space for the primary purpose of Fluther (connecting people through knowledge). We did this partially to spread the Fluther gospel, but mostly because it sounded fun. Inspired by TED and The Moth, we began the Fluther Conversation Salon.

In lieu of a name tag, guests filled out an “ask me about” tag specifying their expertise — alleviating all the awkwardness of pre-party mingling.

Then we circled up and guests volunteered to lead a conversation about their chosen topic. They spoke for a few minutes and then the group asked them questions. We explored despotism, geocaching, BDSM, space exploration, hacking and film music. Each talk had a 10 minute time frame with some intense mingling breaks thrown in. It was a smash hit! In fact, it was hard to get people to leave.

One of our guests, Will McLafferty, said, “It’s what you wish parties were.”

It’s still in the beginning stages but we’re psyched about the outcome. Check out the photobooth results and the audio recordings of the conversations below.

Audio (soon to be on iTunes):

• BDSM
• Despotism
• Film Music
• Geocaching
• Hack
• Space

** For the rest of the pictures, check out the facebook album **

Hey SoCal Jellies!

We’re launching the pilot program of the Fluther Salon — it’s part meetup, part group-interview. Think of it as a microTED filled with questions and interesting people.

You should come and be a part of the experiment!
I’ll be there. I hope you will be too.

The Fluther Salon
Tuesday, May 18th
Doors at 7:30 pm, event at 8:00 pm.  
Location: Santa Monica

Email salon@fluther.com for your invitation.