It’s been about a month since the Blogalicious 2012 blogging conference, and while there is so much I could share, there was 5 sessions and events during this Vegas conference that left a lasting impression on me. I have put together a list of the ones that I have thought about often over the last month and if I could go back in time, I would want to attend them again.
1. Shop Your Way Afternoon Tea
I’ve already done a whole post on the Shop Your Way Afternoon Tea, so be sure to check that post out for LOTS of yummy photos and details about the event. But let’s just say that it was full delicious food and drinks, cool prizes (I won one!), some a fun tea-themed swag bag from Kmart and Sears. For more information: Shop Your Way
2. “Viva Las Ladies Nite” Welcome Reception Presented by McDonald’s
As a kid, I always wanted a birthday party at McDonald’s. I never got one, but this might be the next best thing: McDonald’s “Viva Las Ladies Nite” party. It all took place poolside at the Red Rock Hotel & Casino (a great place for a Vegas conference), where there was music, dancing, and lots of delicious food — everything from vegetable platters to McDonald’s hamburgers! McDonald’s even had cabanas set up where we could get fun stuff like a massage, a manicure, or a psychic reading done. For more information: McDonald’s favorites under 400 calories.
3. Filmmaker Conversation with Ava Duvernay, Director of “Middle of Nowhere”
I’ll be honest, I didn’t think this would be one of my favorite panels and I didn’t even know if I would attend it. But I did, and I LOVED it. We were able to watch trailers to the new movie, Middle of Nowhere (which looks wonderful), but even more than that, we got to listen to independent movie director, Ava Duvernay, talk about directing, film, and about being the first African-American woman to win the Best Director Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. I found her fascinating and real. We also got to hear from the star of Middle of Nowhere, Emayatzy Corinealdi. For more info: Middle of Nowhere movie
4. American Cancer Society “Bowl for More Birthdays” Event
At the far end of the Red Rock Lanes at the Red Rock Hotel & Casino, there are private VIP lanes. Bowling in the VIP lanes is awesome — it’s like having your own little bowling alley, away from the public, and that’s where the “Bowl for More Birthdays” Event was happening. We were able to bowl with our friends, eat and drink, and most importantly, strike back against cancer. Like many people, cancer has affected my family too — my brother-in-law (my husband’s brother) died of leukemia when he was in his 30’s, leaving behind his 3 young boys and his wife, so while this event was fun, it was more about supporting the American Cancer Society and creating a world with less cancer and more birthdays. For more info: American Cancer Society More Birthdays
5. Working with PR, Brands, and Blog Networks
My favorite session during the Blogalicious blogging conference was the one on Working with PR, Brands, and Blog Networks. The panel consisted of Barbara Jones, Stefania Pomponi Butler, Angela Sustaita-Ruiz, and Amanda (AJ) Feuerman. I enjoy working with my favorite brands, so I appreciated the tips and advice that were given and took lots of notes!
I know I loved having Blogalicious as a Vegas conference, but it does move around the US each year and it’s already been announced that Blogalicious 2013 will be in Atlanta, GA. If this is near you, or you are willing to take a trip there, I would encourage you to check it out.
Wendys Hat says
It was a fun weekend, with some great swag, and I loved the company!
stefanie says
That looks like a seriously good time! Fun stuff in the swag bag too!
Abby says
Always looking for new book ideas… Thanks!
Camille says
Looks like fun! And what a great giveaway — thanks!
Amy Z. says
I would love the ShopYourWay tin with tea bags – always love tea!
Lori S says
The Crest 3D toothpaste.
Thanks!
Kathy s says
I would love to have the beach mat. I’ve always wanted one!
Michele says
I’d really like to try the VitaMelts! I’m terrible at taking vitamin pills on a regular basis and I wonder if their like those Listerine strips you put on your tongue…how easy!
Amanda H says
I’m actually really interested in trying the NatureMade Fish Oil Adult Gummies! Thank you so much for this wonderful giveaway.