If you follow along with me on Instagram, you may have caught my adventures in Salt Lake City last week, at the Alt Summit Conference for bloggers. I have been pondering what would be of interest to you and I’ve decided to share some photos and my own personal moments of growth and inspiration.
This is the second time I’ve attended the “ALT” conference and yes, it is certainly a glamorous affair, but it’s definitely not the type of event where I typically feel most comfortable. There is A LOT to do, a lot to see, a lot of amazing people, and just so much information, it can be hard to digest it all. When my friends at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores invited me to attend the event as one of their bloggers, I was really excited. I approached the conference differently from in the past because my priorities for the conference had changed. I was less focused on attending classes and meeting ALLL the brands in attendance. I was more focused on making a few new connections with people that I really want to get to know. Most importantly, I was focused on further developing existing relationships that have already been established. When your primary network of co-workers and partners exists mostly through the internet, it is critical to use the limited face time at conferences to further those relationships.
I was SO glad to share a room with my amazing friend, Jess, from The Sewing Rabbit. She told me that it wasn’t okay to wear jeans to the Downton Abbey party, shared her hair Pinterest board so that I could get fancy with her, and inspired me with all of her professional endeavors…among other awesome moments. Love that girl and love that I got to spend real time with her!
I found that there are ALWAYS new tips and tricks and things to ponder. I especially enjoyed the photography class presented by Candice Stringham of Handmade Mood. Her advice was practical, useful, and inspiring. You should definitely go soak in the amazing photography, projects, and food on her site. It’s pure awesomeness.
I also found acceptance that sometimes, it’s good to just skip out on something that’s not fulfilling your needs and go get a burger. In addition, if you want to get friends on board, invite them to ditch out and go get a burger with you. It won’t disappoint. It might be some of the best conversation that you have.
The mini parties are hosted at the end of the conference and are definitely a good time. Even if you’re not the most social person, there is plenty of eye candy to soak in. I have so many fresh and new ideas just from the decor at the mini parties…
The Bubble Bath Bash – white and champagne bubbles, batting, and gold accents – a room to just stay in forever.
The “Band Together” room made me want a gold chandelier and always floating balloons!
I wouldn’t be sorry to be “Gone Glamping” for the rest of my life. Get that tent in my house pronto!!!
And definitely sneak away to the hotel patisserie for your macaron and/or gelato fix. This little shop just makes me happy.
Alt Summit 2015 was such a great place for me to understand myself and where I want to go with this business in a new way. I let go of the stress of trying to present myself in a way that others might like and I just brought what I have to offer. I made these pretty little business cards and I felt good about it. I realized that I’m doing just fine with who I am and where I am and that, above anything else, inspires me to move forward!
A huge thanks to Joann for bringing me along on this adventure and thank you to all of you who read what I have to say and encourage me to just keep doing what I’m doing! Love you all!
Also: You can read Jess’ reflections over in her recap – My Best Conversations Happened when I Allowed Myself to be a Wallflower.
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