This year, I will attend my fourth Blissdom Conference. Why do I keep going back? The friendships. The business relationships. The photo walks. The opportunities. The people.
Every single one of those people in the pictures above I would not have met if I stayed in my comfort zone. I introduced myself to people before the conference, then met them in person. I kept in touch and friendships grew from there. These relationships changed my life. I have people who pray for me and are closer to me than friends I have where I live. They care about me and my children. They celebrate my blessings and encourage me during my setbacks. All of this because of one conference where people simply care.
This conference is not about a bunch of mom bloggers getting together for a vacation. Two years ago, the conference took a huge shift. The women showing up were businesswomen. They came to learn, share and connect. I realized I was in the midst of people who had found a way to start and grow thriving businesses. The speakers were top notch, approachable and knowledgeable. I keep in touch with many of them and support them and their passions. The sponsors where doing their research and finding out about the attendees and what was important to us. They connected and mingled with us. Asking what they could do to share their brand with our readers.
While this conference has grown in attendance, it continues to be an intimate affair. If you want to meet people, they are there. If you are willing to open yourself up, even just a little, you can make friendships that will change your life. It did for me.
Love this! So true - the friendships completely change our lives!
They do. I am grateful for them everyday.
This is so refreshing to read. I’m a little nervous about going to Blissdom this year, since it will be my 1st time and I’m not a very outgoing person. I’m hoping it’s comfortable enough where I can put out my hand, shake, and speak first. From the bloggers I see going, like you and Jenny, I think I might be just fine.
Amiyrah, you should be more nervous about me attacking you with a hug and possibly taking those cowboy boots you were sporting a few posts back.
I am so glad we will have a chance to meet. Blissdom is a great first conference to come to. The organizers go out of their way to make everyone feel really comfortable. Especially the newbies. Make sure you come to that meet up. That is a great way to connect with the Community Leaders and lots of first timers.
This is great. I attended my first conference a few months ago and loved it. I’m on the fence about attending BlissDom, but you make it sound so wonderful. I, too, have to step outside my safety zone and venture out to meet everyone. Thanks for the wonderful post.
Karyn, I hope you are able to attend. If you come with an open mind and heart, there are no bounds to what you can get out of this conference. The more vulnerability I have shown, the deeper the relationships I have cultivated over the years. Plus, if you have someone you have been admiring, just approach them. I don’t believe in putting people on a higher plane. We are all human and we all have something to give and share.
SO true.
I’m bummed I didn’t get to meet you last year - I look forward to finally meeting you this year!
Well, I am glad we will have a chance to meet this year! Yay!
This is SO true, my friend. I adore you DEEP, DEEP down. Grateful for chances to see you, to hug you, to be proud of you again and again. xoxo
It is always a pleasure to see you, my friend. You have always been so encouraging and I value you more than you know.