Going into Blissdom, I really didn't know what to expect (except to be totally overwhelmed/intimidated--me being a newbie in a room full of wonderful, successful bloggers). I was a Nervous Nellie. Not only was I going to my first blogger conference, but I was going completely alone. Yikes. While I had made about five connections through the lovely world of social media prior to getting there, I honestly hadn't gotten a real chance to scope most of these ladies out through their own blogs! Turns out, that was OK (I guess). I checked into my hotel, which by the way, was amazing, and I dropped my bags off, freshened up, and headed towards the Registration. Into this new crazy world I went.
As it turns out, my expectations were just kind of silly. And the ladies behind all these blogs are people, just like me-with big ideas, fun personalities, and they were going in just as I was. I'd compare it to freshman orientation at Meredith College. Or summer camp. I realized many people already had their buddies or thier clicks, and some people were like me and wandering around sort of solo. I basically gravitated towards two groups of gals, though- interior designers and "The Party Girls" (event industry). Having previously made a couple of connections, it definitely helped me recognize folks! I ventured into this with goals to meet them, but it all kind of accidentally happened. I recognized Aimee from across the hallway and then Courtney recognized me so we all got to talking and they invited me to lunch with a slew of amazing ladies. They know food and cupcakes and cookies, and they've all ventured into businesses about their passions. I love to entertain, so it was insightful to get a glipse into the world of parties. And following them on Instagram has already proven to be SWEET! Later, I literally bumped into Jana (interior decorator who I connected with on Facebook!), who was chatting with Chrissi, who was working on rebranding with Whitney English. Next thing I know, Whitney is in our group (I had no idea she was attending!) and we all went downstairs to chat with one another. I call it a "God Thing." I thought it may be nice to meet some of these women who were in such awesome professions, but I never expected to become included and welcomed! Especially on my first day :) Throughout the weekend, I continued to meet gals here and there who I had recognized. I attended some sessions with Meredith, who was hysterical and so fun to get to know! We linked up beforehand on facebook, because of a mutual friend. So, my takeaway on all these connections that I made would be that I met people who get blogging. Who get me and my creative ideas and who were SO encouraging. I have no doubt as I venture into interior decorating that Jana, Chrissi, and Holly will become mentors in some way. I was floored by each of them, in a great way. And I've already raved about Whitney, but seriously, I cannot wait to potentially go through some strategizing with her. She's a Godsend!
I'll be back tomorrow with Part 2- my takeaways from the sessions and the Keynotes!
xo,
SugarMeg
