Each organizer has had a different vision for what the weekend retreat would entail. However, Overlap has always been a multidisciplinary, collaborative experience that explores the relationship between business and design and the implications that both may have on our companies and careers.

Take a trip down memory lane:

Overlap is now in its 6th year, and each year, we come together as an ever-changing motley crew of visionaries, thought-leaders, and do-ers to share our insights, our challenges, and to inspire one another. Sometimes we come out with product ideas, or newly formed work teams, and sometimes we simply come out as radically changed individuals.

This year, we'd like to focus on this moment of impact—the point at which we pass on some sort of material change to the world around us. This may be on a small or large scale, through a single act or through a larger movement. It may manifest as new collaborations between Overlappers, incorporating new practices into your everyday life and work, or even through one seemingly insignificant gesture to a stranger. When we can articulate this moment, we can be more effective in realizing what we gain or takeaway, and be more deliberate in choosing what we continue to pass on.

We hope that you come to Overlap with materials to share, artifacts from your work, your tools or process, or with a story to tell about yourself and what you are passionate about. You will pass on your experience to others just as they will pass on their experience to you.

Overlappers have a tendency to make their mark on the world, so let's explore this and see what we come up with.

What to Expect (What the dilly-yo?!)

This event is dictated by you and what you choose to bring to it! Leave your business cards at home. The key to getting the most out of Overlap is having an open mind, provoking thoughtful discourse, encouraging critical thinking, and being willing to challenge and be challenged by the group.

We'll have an introductory session on Friday evening, followed by a special BBQ. Saturday and Sunday are for you to focus and work but we're hoping to build in some time for outdoor activities to explore the beautiful surroundings. 

We will not have formal speakers but peer-to-peer conversations about the themes and things that matter to us. We have a loose agenda and structure in mind, and will partially guide a few exercises. With that in mind, please bring your enthusiasm, your interests, some work that you are currently engaged in or some passions that you hope to engage in.

We'll host a wine & beer bar after dinner every evening.

Logistics

Location: Santa Cruz, Ca

Closest airport(s) are SFO and San Jose.

Conference begins: Friday, June 10th, 6pm.

Conference ends: Monday, June 13th, 12 noon.

Overlap is an invitation only conference.

While priority is given to existing participants of the Overlap community, there are a set amount of spots reserved for new participants. This ensures each gathering contains a good mix of fresh thinking and diverse professional backgrounds.

Registrations are accepted on a first come, first serve basis. 

The spirit of Overlap has always been about the dynamic dialogue and conversation between participants. We maintain this atmosphere by keeping the attendance limited, although this has presented some challenges as the Overlap community continues to grow in several different cities.

The small group atmosphere makes it more likely we can create trust and intimacy for productive and spirited discussions than if we held an open forum.

We will send out invitations and instructions for registering in March 2011. Hang tight til then!

After you indicate that you're available for the event, you'll receive an official link to register for the event. You must pay the attendance fee in full in order to confirm your place. Once you have confirmed your spot, an email with further details will be sent to you.

Shoot us an email at overlapsf@gmail.com.