5 Things I Learned From #BlogHer 2012

As an avid conference goer, I didn’t many expectations for BlogHer. I figured it would be similar to conferences I’ve attended in the past. I would attend sessions, meet people and leave feeling the same way about blogging as when I arrived.

BlogHer was a rare experience. With over 5,000 bloggers (predominantly women, with a sprinkling of men) in attendance it was a tad overwhelming but extremely rich. There were bloggers from all walks of life; tech heads, mommies, style bloggers, natural hair, you name it.

There were great speakers including Martha Stewart, Katie Couric, Christy Turlington, Soledad O’ Brien and Malaak Compton-Rock. And there were funny, smart women all glowing and there for a collective purpose. With all the estrogen flowing and good vibes brewing, here are five things I learned from BlogHer 2012.

1. Get thee an iPad

It’s not that I didn’t know this before BlogHer, but after lugging my laptop around on day one and not using it once I realized it’s high time I trade up. Conferences are crowded, sessions are tight and having an iPad for quick note taking will be a lifesaver.

2. Find an Outlet and Park It

Your battery will die, it’s a guarantee. And outlets are a hot commodity. When you find one, park it and relax; you’re going to be there for awhile. To this note, BlogHer could have had more outlet stations. #smallgripe.

3. We’re All Very Fortunate

One of the most poignant things that stuck with me was when Katie Couric was speaking and Lisa Stone asked about women having it all. She responded clearly and definitively, “If that’s our biggest worry, than we’re doing something right. Let’s focus on the women for who having it all is not even an option.” Good stuff.

4. Bloggers Have A lot of Power

If I didn’t know it before I do now. Seeing the sheer amount of attendees, panelists and speakers was astounding. BlogHer and the network of female bloggers is seriously a force to be reckoned with. You betta believe it!

5. It’s Great to Come From Behind the Computer

The best part of BlogHer wasn’t the sessions, the speakers or the parties. It was meeting such amazing, spirited and dedicated women. I got to meet long-time blogging friends in person, make new ones and meet blogging idols. All in all, coming from behind the screen strengthens the connections behind it.