I’ve just returned from BlogHer. I was a virgin to this event and wasn’t really sure what to expect. I came away with a lot of new ideas, some new knowledge, lots of swag and several new friends (and one re-connection with a friend from high school – visit her blog – though she was a year ahead of me! :))
It was nice to have sometime away from the boys to focus on myself, this blog and my business (see www.rubymarcom.com if you are unaware of what that involves for me). I feel like so much of my life recently has been focused on everyone else. That’s worked out fine, but now after having taken this much-needed timeout, I feel invigorated. Watch out world… It could get crazy!
BlogHer was a conference meant to provide information to bloggers to help improve the craft of writing as well as provide useful technical information. As the name suggests, it was primarily attended by women, which was fun for me as the mother of boys. I enjoyed meeting other women who can relate and can give feedback and ideas. I was never in a sorority, but the event had a feel of sisterhood one might experience in a sorority. I did go to an all-girls high school – so it reminded me a bit of that.
So here’s what I really think: I liked the bonding – connecting and meeting new women who are exploring the same online space as I am. The parties were admittedly quite fun – a little perk too was the pedicure. The content of the sessions varied by session. Some were much too beginner to provide any useful information while others offered information in the form of a vibrant discussion vs. as part of a presentation. I would like to have seen meatier sessions that really provided useful information. I did not like that some women brought their children. I understand one might like to bring the family to enjoy the city and make it a family vacation…but aside from children who are nursing – they shouldn’t be present at the sessions OR at the evening events. Frankly, it’s too late, the music was in some cases too loud and honestly, all moms deserve a break – this was the perfect excuse. Another idea might be to bring childcare and to connect with the baby when you need to nurse (that’s what I usually do). So all and all – I had a great time, I would return and would recommend particularly new bloggers attend next year in San Diego. I can also think of LOTS of ways to make it even better. (Blogher if you’re reading this – feel free to email me so we can set up a time to discuss further)
Watch this site for updates and changes and if you like to write, please let me know, I’d love to add your content to this site.
