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10 Best Tips for Attending a Blog Conference

May 6, 2015 by Danielle

I received a discounted conference ticket in exchange for this post. All opinions and ideas are my own. May contain affiliate links. #SoFabUOTR #cbias

A little over a year ago I was preparing for my first ever in-person blogging conference. I was super nervous, had no idea what to expect, what to do…or what to wear (that seemed to be a common concern)! Luckily I had friends who helped give me some tips, and now I’m passing on that wisdom with these 10 Best Tips for Attending a Blog Conference!

Now, I’m not saying I’m an expert by any means! I do have some experience with conferences now, and am currently prepping for a couple more this month! I was so excited there were some here in Dallas, TX that made it pretty much too easy to say no….so I said YES!

On May 30th I’ll be getting with about 50 other fabulous bloggers at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Conference Center for the raved about SoFabU on the Road! It’s going to be a chuck-full day of chatting with other amazing bloggers, fantastic brands and learning more information than I could hope for – such as How to Use Social Media to Drive Blog Traffic. The main speaker? My friend Randi Dukes of Dukes and Duchesses, a craft and DIY blog!

Randi’s blog went from a hobby into a business in the last few years, and she’s passionate about using social media to promote and monetize it. She’s one of those people that I really admire, and I can’t wait to learn about her strategies that built her over half a million combined followers on her social media channels.

They recently announced ‘The Adventure’ portion – we’re going behind the scenes for a photography/video lesson while learning from top Chef’s at some of the Gaylord Texan’s award-winning restaurants, plus walking around their 4.5 acres of indoor gardens and waterways. Yup, I pretty much yelled ‘Woot woot’!!!

I also can’t wait to talk to some of the great sponsors like Johnny Rockets, Müller, Kraft and iBlog plus some other great companies! As I’m getting all prepped, I’m keeping in mind these 10 Best Tips for Attending a Blog Conference.

Tip #1: Making Friends is Easy – so Be Social!

I’m a shy person initially, but once I feel comfortable with someone I’m a total talker! I slowly learned, after attending more conferences and socializing, that I had the best time when I just pushed myself to be friendly and go outside my comfort zone. You never know who you’ll ‘click’ with, so reach out – just start with a ‘hello’ and go from there!

Tip #2: Bring Business Cards

You’re going to be meeting so many bloggers and brands, you WANT to stay organized…the best way is with business cards. Keep theirs (hole punch them and use a binder ring to keep them together). It keeps your mind from going crazy trying to remember everyone’s details, and it’s much easier to follow up after the conference!

Tip #3: It’s Ok to Use the Camera on Your Phone

I know this isn’t EVERYONE’S opinion, but most that I know agree that it’s just a pain to carry around a DSLR. Many of the pics you want are general ‘fun’ and candid ones – it’s difficult to get these when you’re pulling out the massive camera and messing with settings. You’ll stress a lot less by just using you phone camera. This tip alone saved my sanity at my first conference!

Tip #4: Notebooks are a Must, Laptops are Optional

You’ll want to take notes – LOTS of notes! You definitely need a notebook and something to write with (or a couple – you never know when your pen will run-out mid-session). But again, lugging around a big piece of tech isn’t going to be fun or help you feel more comfortable, so a laptop is up to you. It could also die in the middle of the day, then you’re either carrying around a useless, getting-heavy laptop or racing back to your room to put it away and missing out on more socializing.

Tip #5: Dress Comfortably

I know, we all want to look our best when meeting other bloggers and brands – but don’t go overboard and make yourself miserable the whole time! Stick to your favorite pieces that you NORMALLY wear; don’t feel like you have to go out and buy a new wardrobe. Also keep in mind that conference rooms can really vary in temperature – you could be freezing in one session, then sweating in another – so be flexible and do layers.

Tip #6: Use Your Social Media – Everyone Else Will Be!

In general public, it’s considered rude to sit there on your phone while you’re talking to someone. When you’re surrounded by bloggers, it’s the norm, so do it! I’m not saying never talk to someone while making eye-contact, but join everyone else is sharing about the conference, your new friends and all the fun on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, whatever.

Tip #7: Back-up Batteries can Save Your Life – or at Least Your Phone!

My first conference, the biggest frustration I had (and several others) was our phones dying part-way into the day. We have much more social media to do and pictures to take! I bought a battery back-up before my last conference, and it was a life-saver!

Tip #8: Don’t Try to Learn Everything 100% the First Time

You’re going to be hearing so much excellent information, and if you’re like me you’ll want to go implement ALL of it right away. Do NOT do that! Your brain will go crazy trying to process all of that, plus the whole time issue. Make notes of the top things you think would be BEST to do immediately, and address those very shortly after you get home. Keep your notes on the rest for down the road.

Tip #9: Perfect Your Blogger Elevator Pitch

Every time you meet a new person or brand, you’ll probably repeat your elevator pitch. What IS an elevator pitch? Basically it’s you describing yourself and your blog in 60 seconds or less. Your name, blog name and what it’s about. Difficult, I know – I’m still trying to perfect mine!

Tip #10: You’re Never the ‘Newest’ Blogger

I could have sworn I’d be the newest, smallest blogger at my first conference – and this affected how social I was willing to be! I wouldn’t even TRY to talk to ‘the big’ bloggers because my thought was ‘I’m nothing compared to them, why would they want to talk to me’. First of all – that’s entirely NOT true! They want to be friends with you regardless of the size of your blog! Secondly, there’s ALWAYS someone there that’s newer, smaller, quieter, whatever than you are. It’s a huge assortment of people – so don’t let that affect how much you get from your conference!

Bonus Tip: Have Fun and Don’t Stress!

Seriously, I always kick myself when I stress unnecessarily about a conference because I always end up having the most amazing time (even the one where I got sick and sounded like a toad the ENTIRE time)! It’s going to be great, you’ll learn lots and meet so many fabulous people – so just have fun and go with the flow!

SoFabU on the Road Events are open to all bloggers and influencers! Go check out their website to find them at a city near you!

Meet The 2015 Team

March 24, 2015 by Danielle

Guys, I’m THRILLED because I get to share with you the fabulous ladies joining us this coming year! It was so hard choosing between the dozens of contributor applications we received, since there were MANY excellent ones, but I know this group was the perfect fit. So read on and Meet the 2015 Team!

You’ll be seeing these gals each month, sometimes more than once! They’ve got plenty of delish recipes, fun crafts, parenting tips and much more heading your way!

Stephanie from Steph in Thyme

Stephanie is a world traveler, food truck fanatic, yoga teacher in training, former military brat, and newlywed eating and blogging from Boston. With her blog, Steph in Thyme, she explores creative and accessible approaches to gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan meals for every day.

Angela from Juggling Act Mama

I’m Ang, the Juggling Act Mama! I’m also a writer, recipe developer, photographer, brand ambassador, and Pinterest addict! I love cooking, crafting and most of all cuddling! People close to me joke that I’m not happy unless I’ve got a hundred things up in the air, and it’s true. I love being creative whether it be with food or paper or games with the kids. I don’t have a special space for crafting, and I don’t have a huge kitchen for cooking. I’m just a regular mom with cheerios on the floor, trucks on the sideboard, and always a load of laundry that needs to be washed, dried, or folded. Or all three. Juggling Act Mama is a lifestyle blog featuring recipes, DIY projects and crafts for both adults and kids. With a team of awesomely talented contributors, and all these topics, there something for everyone!

Lynn from Riggstown Road

I’m Lynn! I am the wife of my high school sweetheart, and mom to our five kiddos. We live in a rural little area, where I am always busy schooling, reading, crafting, thrifting, decorating, gluten-free- cooking, and writing about all of these things on my blog. There’s never a dull moment at Riggstown Road, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Keri from One Mama’s Daily Drama

Keri is a freelance writer and mom of two. She spends most of her time cooking, crafting, and planning her next project. At the end of the day, you can usually find her browsing Pinterest while watching Netflix with her husband. Her blog, One Mama’s Daily Drama, is all about navigating the chaos of family life, one day at a time, with recipes, crafts, and printables.

Nicollette (Nikki) – my sister!

Hi, I’m Nicollette, or Nikki for short! I’m an athletic health fanatic that absolutely loves baking, arranging flower and candy bouquets, and playing with my husky/wolf who is adorable! I’m actually Danielle’s younger sister, and although I don’t currently have a blog, she loves my recipes and crafts, so asked if I could share some with you!

Ashley from Nurture and Thrive

Hi I’m Ashley! Recently, I left my professional job as a Developmental Psychologist to be a stay at home mom to my beautiful boy. Having studied child development becoming a mom myself was an interesting transition. I have so many questions! I began researching whatever was on my mind as a mom and my blog, Nurture and Thrive, was born. I am learning it all as a mom right along with you and I am passionate about translating the latest research so we as parents can Nurture our little ones and watch them Thrive!

Kathleen from Fearlessly Creative Mammas

My name is Kathleen and I live in Southeast Idaho with my wonderfully supportive husband. We have three grown kids and three beautiful grandkids. I love to spend time with my family, travel, create recipes, craft, sew, camp, hike and take photos. I’ve been blogging at Fearlessly Creative Mammas since April 2012, but blogging in general since February 2011 on Pebble Pirouette. My favorite place to be is the beach and although I own a home in Idaho and land in Alaska, I truly hate the cold. I’m excited to be contributing here at Busy Moms Helper and hope I can inspire some creativity in someone else.

Call for Contributors!

February 7, 2015 by Danielle

There’s been an idea bouncing around my head like crazy for a few weeks now, and today I’m THRILLED to be able to share it with y’all: we’re making a Call for Contributors!

That’s right, things for Busy Mom’s Helper have gotten…well….BUSY and we’re looking to add on a few fabulous bloggers for our 2015 team! I want to be able to bring my readers absolutely AWESOME content regularly, so want to bring on board super fun people to help me provide a variety of high-quality posts!

We’re Looking For:

Bloggers who specialize in Crafts & DIY, Recipes, Sewing, Home Decor & Remodeling, Parenting, Lifestyle and More!
Fun, reliable people with creative, new ideas and blow-us-away photography skills!
Willing to post once per month, occasionally twice when there’s something extra special going on

What You’ll Get:

Exposure! Your post will be seen by our rapidly growing traffic and shared like crazy on all of our social media!
Money! Yep, you’re giving us some of our time back and that’s worth some cha-ching!
Authorship! Your pretty picture, blurb and social media will appear at the bottom of each of your posts.
Attention! You’ll be included in our coming-soon Contributor Page.
Social Media Love! Each week I’ll help share things for YOU…whether pinning a few things from your site every week or spreading the word on a giveaway you’re hosting.

Sound Great? To Apply….

Email me at: danielle (at) busymomshelper (dot) com Subject Line: Contributor

Include the following:

Your Name
Your blog URL
4-5 links to your best/favorite projects. I’ll be looking for your voice and, of course, fabulous pictures!
A little about yourself and WHY you think you’d be a great fit for a contributor on Busy Mom’s Helper.

Deadline to apply is February 28th! I look forward to hearing from y’all!

How I Organize My Blog Planning

June 5, 2014 by Danielle

Running a blog is hard. That’s just the truth of it. For those that think it’s all easy-breezy and ‘she must have so much free time’, sorry to burst your bubble! I’ve yet to meet a blogger that says it’s easy. There’s just SO MUCH to manage, and it’s super easy to get overwhelmed and frustrated. One way I keep myself sane (and loving blogging) is my wonderful blogging command center. This is How I Organize My Blog Planning!

Although I have other methods for organizing other blog-related tasks, such as my social media and sharing, this huge dry erase board is a big part of my blog planning. This board came from Hubby’s work…they were just going to throw it out, so he saved it for me. LOVE YOU, BABE! If you saw my Craft Room Reveal post, you saw how it looked BEFORE adding the trim on the edges. A bit ugly…but it worked well.

Add the painted trim, and the eye sore was now a nice, clean….emptiness begging to be filled. I decided to make it my blogging command center, and it was the PERFECT place to organize my blog planning!

First thing, I planned my layout and such on my laptop, then cut out my vinyl using my trusted Silhouette Cameo!

I wanted the months BIG…so had to print the actually grid part of the calendar (bottom right) separate from the top swirly edge (middle right). More on that in a minute….

It took awhile, but I VERY CAREFULLY got the vinyl from the sheets and placed as perfectly as possible onto my dry erase board.

Okay, so see how I just carefully placed the top swirl piece just barely overlapping the top row on the grid part? It’s pretty clean and smooth on the green calendar, but notice how it printed slightly off-sized on the top pink one? Ya….that was my bad not fixing the size first. Oops! Still not horrible, though!

Since the text for the MONTH is separate, I can keep the calendar themselves up but switch which months as I work throughout the year. I just write the actual dates in the calendar with a dry erase marker, so that’s easily changed as well!

The cute purple text tags all to the right of the calendars help me with my list-making. I have the following sections to my board:

Goals: so I can know where I want to go, and can focus on what will get me there
Tasks: basically my to-do list, whether broken down into each post’s tasks, or my entire weekly list
Supplies: as I’m working, or brainstorming, I can make my list of things I need to proceed with my task list
Ideas: This is the entire right 1/3 of this board, where I can just write ideas and brainstorm as things come to me, without losing it (hopefully)

Here’s how I use the calendar portions to organize my blog planning:

Track my recently done posts, helping me not post things too similar, too close together.
See what I have coming up, so I can prepare and plan. Since with blogs it’s wise to post holiday and seasonal themed posts awhile before the ACTUAL time, this helps me see ahead.
So I know what stage each of my upcoming posts is in, I use a different color of dry erase marker depending on what I need to do with that post. Red = haven’t started, need supplies. Yellow = post is done, but I need to take/edit photos. Green = post and photos are completely done, post is scheduled. Blue = post has gone live and I’ve checked links/etc. are working in that post.

How do YOU keep your blog planning organized?

SNAP Conference 2014 Recap

May 8, 2014 by Danielle

Oh. My. Gosh! I just returned last week from an AMAZING weekend filled with fabulous women, concerts, amazing speakers and blogging. I was so nervous, but now I can’t wait to go again! Want to hear all about it? Well here’s the run-down, and be prepared for LOTS of photos in this SNAP Conference 2014 Recap!

This was my absolute FIRST blogger conference. Ever. I chose it because so many people raved about how friendly everyone was, from the bloggers to the sponsors, and that Tauni (the main woman in charge) was ridiculously amazing. Well…..they were 100% correct! I admit, I was really nervous the past 6 months anticipating this event, partially because I had no idea what to expect, but also because I’m actually pretty shy around people. Don’t get me wrong, I’m blunt and will open up about anything really….but as far as MEETING new people by just going up and saying ‘hi’, that was new to me.

Turns out, there were so many others just like me there! You wouldn’t know it, though, because EVERYONE was so friendly and just struck up a conversation like you were old friends. I loved it! So if you’re worried about ‘fitting in’ – don’t! It’s just a bunch of great women who act like life-long friends, whether you’re a small blogger or huge.

Roommates can make or break your conference experience, and luckily I had some AMAZING, fun and just all-around-fabulous roomies!

Elise is one of those people you just love instantly. FUN doesn’t even begin to cover this party girl! Yet she’s the nicest, sweetest gal! You wouldn’t believe her talent at doodles…really, a bunch of us were in line to have her write names on our bags the first morning! Go check her out at Elise’s Pieces!

If you’ve never ‘met’ Carissa over at Creative Green Living, you’re missing out! She’s such a sweetheart…and she was about 30 weeks pregnant at conference, yet didn’t once complain! What a trooper! She was such a cutie pregnant lady, too! We had some really fun talks and laughs, and she didn’t hesitate to answer a bunch of my less-experienced-blogger questions. Go check her out now for fun crafts and recipes, health information and so much more. Oh, and the adorable bag I toted around at the conference? She made it – see the tutorial here!

Becki’s like wonder-woman. She has so much going on in her life right now taking up her time, yet she has the most upbeat, fun attitude ever! She signed up to room with us just briefly before the conference, so I didn’t have much time to get to know her before, but loved hanging with her at the conference! You wouldn’t believe the adorable scrapbook and crafty paper stuff she does….go see her talent over on her blog!

The sponsors were DA BOMB at SNAP! and I couldn’t believe how much SWAG we all came home with! Seriously, they had told me I should bring an extra bag for all the free stuff….but I ended up checking TWO bags on the flight home because there was so much! The sponsors seriously treat you like royalty, I swear! From the fun booths (did you see the Cricut photo booth above?), to the crafty goodness, to the wonderful sponsored food…you seriously feel loved here!

This is just SOME of the free goodies that made it home with me!

Home Depot even had cute little surprise packages waiting on each of our hotel beds the first night! Maybe a little creeper-stalker….but hey, it’s cool free stuff!

More fun photo booth craziness!

We also got to try some wonderful products, from super-cool RYOBI tools (staple guns….oh yes!), to this really neat Doh Vinci craft tool that will bring play dough to a whole new level for kids coming this fall! My kids LOVE it, and we’ve already gone through the free supplies of it I received!

The classes were all even better than I’d hoped for. Not only were the speakers HILARIOUS, they really gave me quality information that I plan to use in bringing this little ol’ blog to the next level. They even gave us time AFTER classes for questions. Seriously, everyone here is happy to help!

Learning so much useful stuff on Unlocking the Power of Pinterest from these amazing ladies: Jill at One Good thing by Jillee, Cheryl at Tidy Mom, and Jamielyn at i heart naptime.

Okay, so I was pretty star-struck when I got meet Tara & Wendy, two of The Dating Divas after their class on Fueling Your Blog’s Fire withOUT Getting Burnt Out!

I learned a lot about finding my own voice during the Increase Your Pageviews with Storytelling class! If you ever get a chance to meet Vivienne, ask about her chicken story 🙂

Bruce from Minwax answered ALL the questions we had regarding wood staining!

At the beginning I mentioned concerts, right? Well, the very first night there we had Alex Boye rocking out with us! You probably have seen his famous music video to FROZEN, with the ultra-talented young girl. Or perhaps his newer Happy?

There were also some MAJOR parties after dinner, such as the 80’s themed pajama party sponsored by Cricut!

I got wonderful ideas from FloraCraft at their booth….thinking some of their rolled sparkly ribbon would be perfect to add to our FROZEN bedroom!

I was stoked to meet the wonderful gals Katie & Amisha from Royal Design Studios! I used their stencil on the FROZEN bedroom, also, so couldn’t wait to show them and discuss other ideas. They have some awesome products coming soon….stay tuned for a possible review!!!

Another super fun thing that goes on ALL OVER during the conference, was the fun giveaways. Whether it was a stamp-card after meeting all the sponsors, or individual giveaways at each of the booths, or the business card contest….there was free giveaways EVERYWHERE! Elise actually won a HUGE gift basket OVERFLOWING with fun stuff from Darice. Seriously, hundreds of dollars of product! And because Elise is super awesome, she gave some of the crafty goodness to us! Yup, love her (and can’t wait to chill again this summer for a bit!)

Here’s my pic from the famous ‘restroom selfie’ from Pollinate Media:

I finally got to meet some of the wonderful bloggers I’ve been ~~stalking~~ following for awhile: Steph from Crafting in the Rain, Claire from A Little CLAIREification, and Sarah from Bombshell Bling (we learned I grew up with her cousin…small world!). These ladies are just as fabulous in person as they are on their blogs….perhaps even more so!!! HUGS to all, plus my fabulous roomies Elise, Carissa and Becki!

If you’re wondering about the ADORABLE outfits I sported at the conference….the black dress/red jacket, black-polka-dot top with yellow hoodie and pom pom scarf, and the green lace tunic….they were all from one of my favorite places: Adornit Boutique! Seriously ADORABLE stuff!

Overall, this was one of the BEST things I’ve done for my blog, and I can’t WAIT until tickets go on sale for next year’s SNAP! Conference! I’ll grab one the minute I can. Thanks so much to Tauni and her team for making it one of the most amazing weekends I’ve had in a LONG time!!!

Also, a big THANK YOU to my parents for picking me up from the airport for a quick visit, and bringing a 12-pack of Dr. Pepper to get me through the weekend!!!

Please forgive some of the photos being terrible lighting and fuzzy….my phone camera SUCKS!!!

What to Pack for SNAP! Or Other Blogger Conferences

April 19, 2014 by Danielle

Guys, I’m so stinkin’ excited I could die! Next weekend I’ll be attending my first blogger conference EVER: SNAP! I booked my ticket the minute I could, so this has been 6 months of anticipation building up all down to less than a week. There’s so much I need/want to do to prepare, but right now I think the most important thing on my list is to PACK! I’ve been pretty nervous as to what would be best, and after ~~begging~~ asking some friends who’ve attended in the past, I’ve got a good idea of What to Pack for SNAP! Or other blogger conferences, for that matter!

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So the big question I’ve seen many (including myself, I’ll be honest) asking about it ‘what do I wear’?! First of all, I was told to NOT STRESS about it too much. Many of us have this image of absolutely perfectly dressed women who don’t have a single strand of hair out of place. We need to realize that behind the gorgeous blog profile pics is a still-gorgeous-but-actually-real person. I know I DEFINITELY don’t look as amazing as my profile pic would suggest, so why should I think others are going to be absolutely perfect?

The low-down on what to wear: Comfortable, cute and YOU! Don’t try to be someone you’re not…everyone wants to meet the REAL you, the actual PERSON behind the blog. And with all the walking, sitting, chatting, partying…you’ll definitely want to feel comfortable! Here’s my wardrobe of choice for next week’s SNAP! Conference:

For the 3-days of actual conference, I’m wearing the ADORABLE yellow jacket/black shirt/white pom-pom scarf ensemble with jeans, the Springy lacy green tunic with leggings, and the casual-yet-dressy black lace dress with red jacket. All of these are from one of my favorite places: disclosure! They have SO MANY cute and trendy clothes, bags, jewelry and much more. Plus, it’s owned and operated by some of the most wonderful and lovely ladies I know, who are so dang talented yet as friendly as can be!

The blue scoop-neck and red loose-fitting top are more casual and comfy for my flight/travel days, but still cute enough to be meeting with all those wonderful woman bloggers. Oh, and as far as my choice of shoes goes:

With my leggings/skinny jeans, I’ll have my comfy-yet-cute black boots. My other pants (and especially for travel days) I’m sporting my everyday sneakers. See, just keep it comfortable and YOU!

Some other important items:

Roomie Gifts, should you choose to do those. I am…but I’ll have to post pics in my after-conference review so I don’t spoil the suprise!
SNAP! is doing Secret Sisters this year (if you choose to participate, it is optional). If you sign up, don’t forget the gifts!
DO NOT forget some business cards! These can be as simple or as cutesy as you want, but they’re so crucial for exchanging info with all the fun new friends you’ll meet! For mine, I did about 40 ‘fun’ ones with a cute (and tasty) attachment, then have my regular cards. Another tip I received from ‘experienced’ conference-goers: bring a hole-punch and a binder ring clip. As you get cards, punch a hole and slide them onto the ring. GREAT way to keep track of all the cards you’ll nab! Media Kits may be a good idea, also.
PHONE and CHARGER!!! Probably some of the MOST important things to remember!
Extra batteries and battery charger (if reusable). Also, a power strip! With 4 or so ladies sharing a hotel room, there’s going to be so many used up plugs, it may be wise to have a power strip to give a little more access.
External Charger/Battery Pack – great for phones, laptops, tablets, etc. I don’t go anywhere without one of these!!!
Notebook and pens for taking notes.
EXTRA bag, for bringing home all the awesome SWAG! For my flight, I’m just doing a carry-on and personal item to the conference, but packing a duffle bag for my flight home that I’ll check.
Make-up, face wash, hair items (brush, elastics, hair spray, straightener, dryer….whatever you need).
Tooth brush/paste.
Jewelry….comfy-yet-cute. I’m not a huge jewelry person, so a set of simple hoop earrings and my wedding ring are all I’m bringing.
Wallet, ID, money, keys. I’ve been told to bring some cash for the Queen Bee Market at SNAP! Can’t wait to see all the cute handmade stuff (and try not to buy TOO much)!
Tickets and confirmation info (flight, hotel, conference if necessary).
Glasses and contacts, eye solutions, etc. If you need that (I do!) Sunglasses are probably a good idea, as well.
If you want, your LAPTOP. I’m totally bringing mine….and I’ll have my just-quickly-made cushioned laptop bag to carry it around the conference with! I want my hands free for chatting, exchanging cards, hugs, etc!
Munchies and drinks for travel and in the hotel room. I have a feeling my totally awesome roomies and I will be chowing down on chocolate, ice cream, and yogurt!!! Plus, I’ve GOT to have my Dr Pepper! Gum or tic-tacs may be wise to help with breath as you’re talking to everyone. A water bottle would be a wise item since you’ll be talking. A LOT!
Other normal essentials: underwear, pajamas (I’m sure your roommates will be VERY grateful if don’t sleep in the nude while at the conference!), socks, lotion, medicines, etc.
If you want to bring your DSLR, feel free. I’ve been told by MANY people that they end up not using it at all, so I’m not even going to try and bring it on my flight.
Books or other entertainment for the travelling. I’ve got some e-books I’m dying to read, and now I’ll get some time!

For a FREE printable packing list, the best (and most adorable) one I’ve found is over at Two Twenty One, so head on over and print yours!

Wish me luck for next week…EEEEEK I’m so excited!!!!

If you know of something I should include in this list, please let me know in the comments! I’m hoping I don’t get to the conference next week and have to slap myself in the forehead for missing something important!

The Real Blogger Project: The Mess Behind the Beauty

March 15, 2014 by Danielle

Okay, so you all see the mostly-beautiful FINAL products of my blogging. The yummy-looking meals, the neatly arranged crafts….after all the struggle and editing are complete. Today, for The Real Blogger Project, you get a behind the scenes look at The Mess Behind the Beauty!

So the photos of me that I mainly use for my blog are AMAZING and BEAUTIFUL! Want to know what I really look like 99% of the time while I’m blogging?

Yup, hair is brushed but that’s it. No make-up. Comfy Iron Man t-shirt. You can’t see, but also paint-stained yoga pants. That’s me the majority of days!

The photos of the food that’s perfectly lit, and composed oh so beautifully? This is how the actual display I often use works:

I love the vinyl backdrops, placed on my desk after I move the pile that was previously there onto my bed. My reflective white is propped into position by the desk chair (the chair also covered in a pile of papers). Two huge windows open to allow as much light in, but timed so no direct light hits.

When choosing what dishes to use, they’re often scattered all over my floor so I can really get a visual.

And they’re stored ‘very nicely’ like this, on my dresser:

After each meal is made, there’s a mountain in my sink that may never go away….

Supplies for craft projects left scattered throughout the house…

And furniture I found for free at the last minute randomly placed in the middle of the craft room, for weeks, until I MIGHT get around to fixing it up.

This is all the messy, chaotic clutter that is my life. But you know what? All the crazy piled of dishes, unswept floors and random crafting shtuff overtaking my house….it allows me to do something I love. The best part, though? I get to spend my days blogging with THESE adorable, wonderful little kiddos!

And I wouldn’t trade this for the nicest, cleanest house in the world! Thank YOU, everyone, for allowing me to be a messy, disorganized, amazingly happy blogger and mom to my kiddos!!! Love to you all!

An InLinkz Link-up

Help Me Pick My New Pic!!!

February 22, 2014 by Danielle

Guys, I need your help!!! I had an UBER fun and beautiful photo shoot done the other day, since I seriously needed to update my photo on this blog. The current one….well, let’s just say I’m not THAT young anymore. The problem? The photos turned out so amazing, I can’t choose which one for my main blog pic! So I’m calling on all of you for help: Help me pick my new pic!

After much browsing through the images (seriously, SOOOO many gorgeous photos), Hubby and I were able to narrow the option down to nine. NINE!!! Here’s the contenders for my main blog pic…..

So, what do YOU think?

Cast you vote by ‘liking’ your favorite in this Facebook album!

And if you’re wondering who the talent is behind these amazing photos…..Andrea Hughes, owner and main photographer over at A Studio Productions. LOVE LOVE LOVE her work, plus she’s so dang fun! Seriously, you’ll have such a great time….go check her out!!!

Last, but not least, if you’re wondering about the DARLING yellow jacket + black polka dot top + white pom pom scarf ensemble, it’s from Adornit Boutique. They have SO MANY trendy, chic and just all around beautiful outfits and accessories (and purses….LOVE them), you’ll fall head over heels in love. They even have the sweetest stylist Amber who can get you all set up. Uber fun!

Thanks so much for your help…..can’t wait to see what ya’all think!!!