I'm going to Blissdom 09 in just a few days and this is my first ever blog conference, the first time I'll meet ANY of my bloggy friends and blog idols in person, and the first time I've been away on a work (?) sort of thing in a loooooong time.
So yes, I'm a complete dork and already started my outfit list (and thank you everyone for your cocktail outfit votes!) and now have compiled a list of other things I think I should bring.
I'm hoping some of you more experienced bloggers and conference goers will weigh-in here.
Here's what I have so far:
1. Wine - wait, maybe that shouldn't be number one...makes me look like I have a problem. But I do, I'm nervous! OK, we'll take that off #1 and I'll buy it down there, but it's not leaving the list completely!
OK, start over
1. Laptop - because my faithful readers (all 2 of you) don't go on vacation just because I'm hanging with my blog peeps and getting all fabulous n stuff.
(Question - do people actually bring their 'puters to the sessions too?)
2. Business Cards
- of course I don't have any but that isn't going to stop me. I've come up with a very creative if not handy little calling 'card' that I will reveal here:
This business card is actually a small envelope in which my fellow bloggers can store all the other cards they will be collecting. (Notice the Twofer stamp?) If you think it's hokey I don't really want to hear it because it took me a lot of time to make them and, well, at least it's memorable.
3. Mobile Phone - like this one:
not to stay in touch with my family you silly people, to do some LIVE Tweeting!
4. Snacks
- I'm just one of those people that completely loses focus when I get hungry, so I'm planning to pack a few granola bars. (I will share so if you feel your blood sugar running low, c'mon over.)5. Notebook
- Because I will be meeting so many cool people and getting invited to participate in all kids of fabulous things, I better bring a notebook to jot everything down. 
And here is where I really Geek'd out...I took a minute this morning to organize my notebook with an area for the schedule, people I meet, my questions/goals, and session notes. Plus, I put some paper clips and sticky tabs so I can highlight certain things if needed.
Again, I can take criticism, but at least I've put some thought into it.
6. Wine - is it appropriate to mention that now here?
7. A good book
- because sadly enough the thought of waiting and waiting in an airport and on an airplane brings me a certain kind of joy. The kind of joy you just don't get unless you're used to two 5-year olds constantly asking you questions, whining about being hungry, arguing, and basically needing you.8. People Magazine
and Us Weekly - always a treat when I travel and always a great source for small talk. Plus, I'm going to use them for 'research' for a new writing role I may take on.9. Lists - I am spending some much-needed money on this conference and to make sure I get the most out of it I better prepare all my burning questions for my blog idols. I also want to make a list of ideas I've had, and new projects I'm working on so that I remember where I'm looking to partner with someone.
10. _______________________You fill it in! Please leave me your #10 in a comment. Did I overlook something really obvious? What have you wished you had with you at a conference? If there's enough interest, I'm happy to compile the list and post it after the conference.
Thanks for your input and Blissdom 09 Here I come!
Janine
25 comments:
I am so completely jealous! That's all I have to say.
No! Don't be jealous...I'm not going to BlogHer so this is my one thing. Have you ever been to one?
You can definitely bring your laptop to the sessions although the mass computer usage sometimes zaps the bandwidth.
Have a great time and enjoy!
I've only been to one conference (BlogHer '08 - loved it!), but all I can suggest is that you make room for swag - otherwise it looks like you're set!! Love the envelope idea - very creative and smart! Have a blast and, oh yes - don't forget the wine - tee hee!
Kellan
Extra pens? Sorry, that's probably stupid but I seem to repel pens, I can never find one when I need it.
Awesome! I'm jealous! Love the envelope idea - bring plenty of them, you'll gather lots of cards. And ditto Kellan, I took home lots of swag from BlogHer DC. Do you have the other "girly" stuff - tissue, lotion, hand sanitizer, etc, etc, etc
This is great - so, do I need an extra bag for swag or what? I'm feeling so Hollywood already!
If the wine thing works well you'll probably want water the next day too!! I like to have my nalgene so I can refill it!
I've never been to one and don't know what swag is...hope you have a great time. Can't wait for the review posts when you get back!
comfy, yet pretty, shoes.
sweater for the conference rooms. They get chilly.
camera!
can't think of anything else. have fun!
I wish I was going! Looks like great fun. It looks like you have it covered for stuff to keep busy. I'm sure you have your "personal" list elsewhere. :)
I have one though: Pics of the kids!
I don't remember seeing camera on the list, and umm... don't forget the power and chargers to everything!
I can feel your excitement when I read! Have a wonderful time - the business card idea is great! Take care and enjoy every minute of it. Thank you!
LOL. You have thought this through. The envelope/biz card is VERY clever. Enjoy every thankful smile you receive as you hand them out.
Lynn @ Mama Says
Love the business card idea. Very creative
Thanks for the Biz card love! I'm hoping it goes over well at the conference too. You guys make my day.
I always take a binder with all of my info printed off and in it. Hotel reservations, airline tickets, etc. and also make up a timeline so I know what is going on when.
I'm pathetic.
I went to BlogHer07 and *everyone* brought laptops. We all tweeted during the sessions. Yes, even when Pioneer Woman was talking.
Digital camera + charger + cable to connect to laptop. Upload pictures to flickr and/or your blog--be sure to tag them BlissDom09--people will want to see them!
Pack an extra expendable carry-on type bag for the swag.
Maybe I need to re-read but I didn't see CAMERA. If you have a FLIP bring it, otherwise a digital will work, but don't you want to take pictures with your "bloggy idols". I love your journal / notebook idea, now I must run out and purchase myself a cute one and do the same thing you did, because that is just a FAB idea. I'm Alyssa by the way and I'm heading to Blissdom too. See you in a few days.
The biz card idea is adorable - I am looking forward to meeting you in 2 (3?) days!!
Deanna
CAMERA! Of course! Although I tend to use my phone but I did get a Flip from Santa and that for sure is going with me. Thanks and I can't wait to meet some of you! Just look for the redhead handing out envelopes with a black & white notebook :).
I always forget the lip balm.
I think you've got a great list! Don't forget your camera, and your envelope idea is a really original one - I don't think I've ever seen that done before (and I've been to a lot of conferences). Great idea!
Excited to meet you there!
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You've come up with a creative and complete packing list, but where's the chocolate?
A smile :)
I want to try to find you...I have twins...older 15..so let's try to say hi...
Beth
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