BlogHer ’11 went by like a whirlwind. I met so many people, shook so many hands, and ran from event to event like a madwoman. With over 3500 attendees it was easy to feel lost until you see a few familiar faces (from their Facebook and Twitter avatars).
I couldn’t cram all the highlights into one list so I broke it down a bit. I hope this gives you a general idea of what it was like and tips if you plan on attending the next one.
Key Points
- You are your brand – keep focused, consistant, and under one umbrella (Blogging Angels Breakfast)
- Content is key – blog regularly and provide useful information (Pathfinder Day as a Media Company)
Logistics
- Don’t overbook – you’ll get a whole lot of nothing and miss out on much more (Jen saw my craziness)
- Stay in the host hotel – it will save you time and your feet (Westin Gaslamp sponsored my stay though)
Networking
- Slow down – make a few real connections vs dozens of superficial ones (Liz and Carolyn are so huggable)
- Keep in touch – get cell numbers to find each other (Jen was on speed dial but Renee cost me extra)
Extras
- Keep focused – massages and manicures won’t clarify blogging goals (but they’re so nice, right Suzette?)
- Swag – it’s great to get some things you can actually use but greed is ugly (i.e. MomSelect Swag Suite)
Events (okay this one has four)
- Stiletto Media: Kick Off Your Heels – relaxing, well-decorated, lovely touches everywhere
- iFabbo Glamour Suite – Pampered with a CND Shellac manicure, Dermalogica facial, and Stila make-up
- Social Soiree with the Frugalistas – great atmosphere to talk, welcoming hosts, set up nicely
- The Big Toy Book and KidzVuz Sweet Suite – perfect for connecting with brands and fab swag bags
Every person will have a different experience. I passed out 100+ business cards (thanks, UPrinting) but I have a lot of regrets about not taking the time to savor the wealth of knowledge of available and making more solid, meaningful connections. Still, it was so fantastic to meet the people I did even if briefly. I’m not a big party-er so I can’t comment on those but most loved them.
BlogHer was overwhelming for me (but less expensive thanks to My Job Chart) but I feel like a seasoned conference-goer now, ready to take on another!
Left: “The Pioneer Woman” and “The Budget Fashionista“; Right: Liz, Carolyn, Kathleen, Renee, and Lisa
Cameo Appearances
The Swag! This is after I got rid of stuff I couldn’t use . . .
10 comments
I am so glad I went to Blogher because otherwise I would not have met you. You were truly a highlight of my trip! We must plan to meet again!
Oh my goodness, you are such a sweetie – not just for that comment but because you just are! I loved meeting you and look forward to sitting down and talking the next time we get together 🙂
It was so great meeting and connecting with you! xoxo
Me too!
I only got a tease of the BlogHer convention this year. I can’t wait until next year.
At least we got to meet!
Looks to me like you got the just enough to go again though 🙂
So glad you had a productive trip. Sounds like your learned a lot! You certainly got a ton of swag. Nice!
Haha – that’s an understatement. It was definitely a unique experience!
It was great meeting you and I’m so glad you had a nice time at the Stiletto event!
Btw, I know I already said it but I love your blog name, it combines two of my fave things: cookies and shoes!
Haha, you are so cute! It was fantastic meeting you as well – too bad we only got a chance to talk briefly. So glad you like the name, I do too 🙂
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