+1 to all the good things said above about meeting Basschatters for deals, or even just a drink, and attending bashes. Honourable mention for the London Bass Guitar Show too, which is teeming with Basschatters every year.
And don't forget the non-bass-playing other halves. I have met Mrs CamdenRob, Mrs Grangur, Mrs Sharman, the lovely soon-to-be Mrs Dave Swift, as well as Mrs Hamster and Mrs Silverfoxnik, and found them all supportive, great fun and always willing to help out.