Con after hours and acceptance of others
I have attended COns on the coast for quite some years now. I am considering attending MFM this year but have some questions that would sway my decision. Cons on the coast are relatively small with 500-750 people. What the average size of the convention? We have a very "friendly" atmosphere on the coast especially after dark and offer programmng to suit more adult interest. Is there such at MFM? We also have promotional rooms at night that throw kick ass parties. Do you offer such pleasures? Lastly, gay fandom in the south is well accepted on the coast, is open homosexuality common at MFM or is it looked down upon? These are important factors that determine if would drive out to Memphis or choose to possibly attend Dragon with my friends from Atlanta.
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These coast cons sound like
These coast cons sound like a blast!
I'll try to answer your
I'll try to answer your questions as best I can.
MFM typically has an attendance between 400-700 people. If you're looking for a large convention, this isn't it. Typically we average about 500 or so each year, depending upon the price of airline, gas, and all the usual travel costs.
MFM is a family friendly convention. Tyger Cowboy and the other staff have gone to great lengths to promote a positive image of the convention and to make it an integral part of the surrounding community. MFM is listed by Memphis' own chamber of commerce as one of the top attractions and money makers for the area. It's not unusual for hotel staff to bring their children to see the fursuit parades. We've been invited back to the hotel each time the contract came up for renewal because we behave accordingly.
I'm not certain what you mean by "friendly" but generally MFM is tolerant of all behaviors and practices --- as long as you are are courteous of others'. No definitely means no and we do not allow excessively adult behavior or costuming, even"after hours". If you want to wear collars, that's one thing (many do) but if you want to parade around in a BDSM harness with someone holding the leash or your costumes have exposed sexual organs, that's not allowed.
Most of our programming is for general audiences. We do have some panels and events which are adults only and they do tend to be placed later in the evening, although they can be scheduled any time at the panelists' discretion. We use minor badges to regulate entry into these events.
Room parties cater to a variety of interests but noise and activity levels need to be kept reasonable; we share the hotel with people who are not part of the convention and do not want to disturb them. If there is alcohol, it's the responsibility of those in the room to ensure that it's not served to minors.
MFM is open to all lifestyles. Again, courtesy and common sense are the opperative words. Excessive PDA for ANYONE is discouraged.
We have quite a few con-wide programming events like the pizza feed and the furry frolic dinner. Tracks average about five panels per track, give or take. Things are a bit more laid back down here and we like to leave room for people to socialize, see the sights, and just relax.
It's basically like a family reunion...without the drama. If you want to relax and have a good time, this here's the place! If you want to party yourself stupid and get loud and public, I'm not sure this is the place for you.
Not sure how well I'll be
Not sure how well I'll be able to answer all your questions, but I'll do my best since i seem to be the first here. Anyone else feel free to add input. :)
MFM is quite a cozy con, ranging from around 500 - 600 attendees in the last couple years. Though it seems to be steadily growing each year! It's a very friendly con indeed, and is perhaps better described as a big 'family reunion.'
Not really sure what there is to find after dark, or to what extent the sort of parties there are, as I've not attended any myself save for one. You'll have to wait for someone else to answer that one who's better in the know.
As for the homosexuality question, I can only really go from my perception of the matter, but I would definitely not consider it looked down upon. My impression is MFM is pretty accepting to most any and all walks of life. This, is partly why I enjoy MFM so much. Lots of unique diversity to see!
Anyway, hope this helps a bit. :)
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I have to agree, MFM will
I have to agree, MFM will accept anyone and everyone as long as respect for those around you is maintained. And... you might want to keep those 'wild parties' in check since the hotel is not ours and regular people will be there.
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