It was my first time at Blogher, since I couldn't attend last year. This year, I had several reasons to be there: the conferences, seeing my blogger friends, and being at the Latism (Latinos in Social Media) party. However, it's very true that one proposes and God disposes. As I've said many times, I adore my children, but they often drive me crazy. Even though I planned my trip four days before the event, it took me longer to leave home and get to the train station than the same trip from Pennsylvania to New York.
The arrival
Finally! I made it to the much-hyped event, the largest blogger event with nearly 5,000 attendees from all over the country.
Upon entering the hotel, the party that was taking place at the Hilton in New York was already noticeable. That day, I was able to hug my friends Jeannette (Boricua Seasoning), Dania (The cool family), Romina (Mama XXI) and Ana (Latism). Then I would meet Rachel (The Digital Latina), Lisa (New Cork girl) and Juanita (Saving Dollars). All absolutely great!
Expo Halls
On the first day, I visited the Expo Halls, where many brands and companies were sharing their work with bloggers and, of course, most importantly, networking with everyone and establishing a working relationship.
Personally, and to avoid exhausting myself in three minutes, I only focused on companies that fit the themes of my blogs, so this time I didn't return home with many swag bags, which, from what I'm told, were great! Especially the ones from the private parties I didn't attend because my participation was decided at the last minute. The positive thing about this is that I only returned home with one suitcase and a lot of business cards 🙂
She Rules
The blogher '12 agenda was very varied, and unfortunately, I was unable to attend many of the conferences, except for "Ella Gobierna," which discussed the importance of the role of Latinas in these times, especially now that the elections are approaching. This panel featured Latinas who play a very important role in politics both on and off social media. Panelists included Ana Roca, Verónica Arreola, NYC Councilwoman Melissa Mark, and Carilinda Garcia.
Sponsors
Before collapsing from the hustle and bustle, my blogger friends and I decided to visit some sponsor suites. We had a blast, visiting Hot Wheels, where they presented their new line of toys, which will be released this Christmas. Can you imagine how fun it is to throw a ball and have it turn into a speeding car? I hope to give you more details later.
Hershey sweetened our visit with delicious S'mores. Hershey's chocolates are delicious! I had to be reminded that it was just a visit. Plus, the atmosphere was perfect: a campsite complete with tents and an artificial fire pit.
Party!
Blogher isn't just about conferences, expos, and swag bags, it also includes the evening parties, of course, for those who survive the hectic day. However, as a member of Latism (Latinos in Social Media), I couldn't miss Fiesta Latina.
The atmosphere alone told us what was coming was going to be fun and full of swing. The party started with the famous piñata tradition, followed by a salsa class that got everyone dancing.
What I really liked about the event was the presentation of a couple of professional Salsa dancers that many of us try to imitate, but it seems we'll need some time 🙂
And to close with a flourish, the general party began, in which everyone participated, both with and without shoes. As a souvenir, each attendee received an original bracelet made and brought from Montecristi, where Latism carried out its self-sustaining project in 2011.
An unforgettable night! Unforgettable because the next day it was hard to get up and, above all, to say goodbye to my friends.
Thank you blogher'12 and Latism for a very special few days!