You guys, it’s been a whirlwind couple of weeks. But while I’ve been running around all over the place, I couldn’t miss filling you in on how Philly’s first blogger conference, The Blog Connect, went! I know I shared the details of the conference not too long ago, but after attending the all-day event, I can attest: it lived up to the hype. I’m so glad it did, as I didn’t want all of this hype and excitement to be for nothing. Because of its success, I wouldn’t be surprised if the organizers had decided to look at this conference planning template, from somewhere like Smart Works (find out here for more information), to put the event together, as well as ensuring that it went off without a hitch. Whatever they did, it worked, and it was one of the best conferences I have ever been to.
The conference was held at the gorgeous Saxbys HQ (2300 Chestnut Street). I had to arrive a little late to the day, but Melissa was there to show me where to go and what not to miss. Our first treat was (naturally) free java all day long! There were giveaways to enter, swag bags to pick up, and people to meet. I was so impressed with the number of new faces in the room – Philly blogger pride in full effect. It was also fantastic to speak to some marketing wizards who informed us about how we can monetize our blog by allowing links to be built on our page. Of course, companies reach out to service providers like indexsy.com in order to do this.
After the coffee, I jumped right into some brainstorming during my first workshop with Lisa. She had us writing down ideas left and right for blog topics. Julia caught me working on my ideas in this snap that is early in the day, so my hair still looks pretty OK. (PS: I’m still obsessing over my haircolor, Rittenhouse Salon!)
Next, we had a discussion about using your blog to make that $$$ with Bekah, a superstar blogger and businesswoman. She broke down what bloggers actually make and gave us some of her favorite money-making networks.
Image via Julia Dent
Lunch was provided by every Philly lady’s new BFF: Snap Kitchen (so many locations). The food was delish, and I was thrilled our choices (I got all of the choices, though. Exhibit A, below) included my faavvvv little number, the Indian Trio. It’s really so good.
Kate & Jess from Philly PR Girl kill it with their blog. They gave us great insight on networking (something I am painfully awkward at). I think one idea everyone will be replicating Kate’s business card spreadsheet; as soon as she gets back from an event with a stack of business cards, they go into an excel doc. So smart.
My friend Amber is a Philly blogger you must know. Her workshop was all about how to style the perfect Instagram shot. I’m not really a flat-lay/styled shot kinda human just yet, but I’ve definitely been trying her tips on lighting and editing! What do you think?
This event was also a pretty special day for me, because it was my first time being part of a blogger panel! I spoke with Bekah, Rachel, Jess, and Gabby about creating community with our readers and on our blogs.
Let me just say, Bekah, Rachel & Jess are pros at this, so when Gabby (our lovely moderator) sent us out questions ahead of time, I made notes!!! I was the only one of the panelists to bring said notes to the panel, but they really helped me. Representing the only super locally targeted blog up there, it felt nice to reassure myself of the ways I had created a community that I love and am pretty proud of, with all of you! Love ya all.
Image via Julia Dent
When the day was over, we did a little networking over beer and cider and were out. Chrystina, Sarah & Melissa did such a great job planning this event for the Philly blogging community – THANK YOU, ladies! There are some great recaps out there if you skim through #theblogconnect on Twitter.
One last note: If you’re an aspiring blogger or businesswoman and would like to get involved, make sure you check out PHLBloggers. It’s been a truly awesome community for me to be a part of and has made me some excellent friends. xx
Image via Tim Becker
