{ jamieann dot net } » Blog Archive » BlogHer09: it’s like Christmas in July*

July 27, 2009 | BlogHer, amazing things

Dude.

This was a whirlwind of a weekend. But it was absolutely amazing.

Last year was my first year attending BlogHer, but I’m not going to lie, I was still pretty overwhelmed. Thursday afternoon, I walked into the Social Luxe party alone, did a quick run around the room and had to step out to take a breather. Lots of women, noise and so much going on. I was freaked for a second. The lack of cell and internet reception made it hard to connect with other people I might know to get a little more comfortable. But I sucked it up and made some friends!

I attended a few sessions but I walked out of some because they didn’t seem like the description. Or a lot of the ones I wanted to go to were too crowded or you couldn’t hear. I think last year may have had some better sessions. But I really think they need some bigger rooms, especially for sessions you know will be popular like those about branding or humor.

The exhibition hall was way bigger than last year. There were some really great booths there this year. I particularly liked Suave and Disney because duh, hair product and Mickey Mouse ice cream bars are the way to my heart. The food this year was a major upgrade. No crappy boxed lunches in 09. Woo! But the lack of water was awful. Tons of Pepsi products, which I love, but a girl needs some water too! (Note to self, bring water bottle next time.)

I got a massage in the MicroSpa. That dude worked the shit out of my shoulder. He told me he could tell it was jacked up so he spent extra time on it. And really? I’m going to have to work massages into my budget every now and then because I just felt so amazing after.

There was the Wienermobile which was fucking awesome. Tara and I got to take a ride around Chicago and harass tourists with the intercom thing and horn. It was amazing and so is Tara. I’m so happy I met her!

I met Tim Gunn. I’m pretty sure I literally squealed right before our turn. I was so scared and excited but he was probably the nicest person ever. We discussed Project Runway Allstars!

It was pretty great having BlogHer in Chicago. I got to do a few things that I’ve never done in my 25 years here. I took a carriage ride down Michigan avenue to the Hancock for a Nintendo Enthusiast dinner. Went up 95 floors to the Signature Room where we had an amazing dinner. The view was amazing. My table was amazing and watching lightning from 95 floors up was amazing.

Then I met Edward at the MamaPop party all decked out with my glow sticks and twittered about it and all you bitches went nuts. So here is my proof, me and Edward:

(dazzled drunk Jamie kissy face)

The next night, I walked the red carpet with my BlogHer crew at BowlHer (not BLOWher), rocked a hot pink boa and hit the open bar hard.

As if that wasn’t enough? It was time for the CheeseburgHer party in the Presidential Suite. This meant more wine and cheeseburgers. And of course, McDonald’s bag hats. For the second year, this has been my favorite part of BlogHer.

(this was taken on my iPhone but is pretty accurate. That night was hazy, blurry and filled with McD’s bags and hot pink boas)

My favorite part about blogging and BlogHer is the connections I make and the relationships that are built. My two partners in crime for the weekend: Jess and Katelin (stay tuned for a video blog from us soon!). New friends: Beth, Heidi and Tara, let’s all move to the same city. The best date ever, Maggie. Chicago gals that I don’t see enough, Allie, Suz and Angie. Yvonne is probably the coolest person ever and I love her so much. I wish we could have chatted more. Some official BlogHer ladies: Jeanne, Elisa and Jenny who I’ve been talking with for a long time so it was great to finally meet. And Gwen Bell was so so great even though I was totally awkward and didn’t know what to say around her. It was just amazing meeting people I admire and respect so much.

Everyone else I stumbled upon, drunkenly talked to, excitedly introduced myself to, speed dated, everything… I could go on forever and link everyone in the world but it was great meeting everyone! You know who you are.

Best part of a weekend with 1200 women?

No drama. No bullshit. Just respect and fun.

I was not interested in any of nonsense and just had the best time.. So thank you for that, ladies!

P.S. We will be hitting NYC for the conference in 2010 and I’m determined to have an even stronger 20 something presence there. So if you’re interested, let’s get the ball rolling and make this happen!

P.P.S. I was awful at taking photos. Once everyone else get some uploaded, I’ll steal some and make a BlogHer photo post.

* For the record, I don’t say it’s Christmas just because of the insane amount of swag. Everyone is all “wah wah BlogHer isn’t about the swag, you greedy bitches”. It’s the one time of year, your other (blogging) family gets together, learns things, has a big party, shares stories and gets drunk. Just like your normal family gatherings. AND the presents don’t hurt but swag is obviously not the reason why I go to BlogHer.

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That sounds like a FANTASTIC time! SO glad you had a blast (and met Tim Gunn). I hope i can make it to one one year!
.-= Lauren´s last blog ..Book Review: It Feels So Good When I Stop =-.

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