Technology/Social Media Archives

Technology/Social Media

Top Holiday Gift: DJI Global Mavic Mini Drone from Best Buy

November 10, 2019 / Lifestyle, Technology, Technology/Social Media

This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
I’ve been planning to up my photo and video game in 2020 and just found the perfect item to put at the top of my Holiday Wish List: the DJI Global Mavic Mini Drone from Best Buy! It’s so innovative and seems easy to use! Transform any moment into a work of art. The Mavic Mini supports 12MP aerial photos and 2.7K Quad HD videos. A 3-axis motorized gimbal provides superior camera stability and ensures clear, ultra-smooth footage.

Here are some of the unique features:

Stabilized Gimbal Camera –Transform any moment into a work of art.Mavic Mini supports 12MP aerial photos and 2.7K Quad HD videos. A 3-axis motorized gimbal provides superior camera stability and ensures clear, ultra-smooth footage.
Remote Controller – See what your Mavic Mini sees.A dedicated remote controller maintains an HD, low-latency video feed at a distance of up to 4 km. [3] Detachable control sticks can be easily stored inside the remote controller for added portability.
Extended Flight Time – Less battery charging, more flying.Mavic Mini’s weight allows it to stay in the air longer than similar consumer FlyCams on the market. Enjoy up to 30 minutes of flight time with a fully-charged battery.

Cinematic is Simple

QuickShots – Complex shots are easier than ever.Shots that look like they came from a Hollywood film set are just a few taps away with Mavic Mini’s QuickShot modes, which include Dronie, Circle, Helix, and Rocket. Just select your QuickShot and Mavic Mini will execute an elaborate preset motion while recording. Take the automatically generated short video and share it instantly with friends on social media.
CineSmooth Mode – Smoother motion for compositions that wow.Slow down Mavic Mini’s flight speed and movements for an added layer of precision and stability. This mode is especially useful when flying in narrow or complex spaces.
Discover Popular Spots – Find scenic shooting locations near you.The DJI Fly app gives users integrated access to SkyPixel, a social media platform for users to share their aerial photos and videos. Browse work, share your own, and even discover popular aerial photography spots in your area.

Get the most from your Mavic Mini with these accessories:

Two-Way Charging Hub – The Two-Way Charging Hub can charge up to three batteries in sequence. It can also be used to store and transport batteries, and even as a power bank to charge your mobile device.
DIY Creative Kit – Make your FlyCam truly yours with this kit that includes shell stickers and colorful markers.
Charging Base – Show off your Mavic Mini while charging it with this convenient charging base.
DJI Mini Bag – Pack your Mavic Mini and Two-Way Charging Hub easily with this signature shoulder bag that’s perfect for everyday use.
Snap Adapter – Personalize your Mavic Mini with a wide range of compatible accessories when you use the Snap Adapter.
Propeller Holder – This lightweight propeller holder protects your FlyCam propellers from being damaged during transportation. It can also be used to fasten your Mavic Mini to your bag or belt.

The DJI Global Mini Mavic is available at Best Buy either in-store or online. Now let’s get this holiday shopping started!

Images are property of Best Buy and used with permission.

Disney Social Media Moms Celebration “On-the-Road” at Disneyland Resort

September 4, 2017 / Conferences, Disney, SoCal Fun

I was invited to attend a conference and provided with entrance to the Disneyland Resort. All opinions are 100% my own.

Pixie Dust landed in my inbox a few weeks ago, in the form of a magical invite to the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration On-the-Road at the Disneyland Resort. Just the mention of anything Disney, brings a smile to my face and warms my heart so I was giddy to share this news with anyone and everyone who would listen!

So grateful for the invite to #DisneySMMC on the road! You never get used to #PixieDust in your inbox! Thank you, @DisneyMoms! MAGICAL day! pic.twitter.com/u72NJEOH2n

— ✨Wendy✨ (@OverthetopMommy) July 25, 2017

After I shared about my wonderful invite on my social channels, I received a few questions asking what exactly Disney Social Media Moms Celebration is? So let’s just start there.Disney Social Media Moms Celebration is a multi-day conference that began over 7 years ago at the Walt Disney World Resort. This annual event put on by the Walt Disney World Events Team, is by invitation only and is extended to a couple hundred social media moms (and dads) and their families each year. Attendees participate in a conference and also get to spend to time in the Parks with their families during their stay. Last year, I had several friends attend and have the opportunity to experience the very first “Land and Sea Celebration” where they sailed aboard the Disney Wonder! (Read about my friend Gayle’s experience here.) How magical does that sound? A Disney cruise is definitely on my family’s travel bucket list! Have you been on one before?
The Walt Disney World Events Team took the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration out “On-The-Road” a few years ago, creating a half-day “mini” conference, making several stops across the country, and even in Canada. I was lucky enough to attend the “On-The-Road” conference last year, when it was held at Paradise Pier at Disneyland Resort.Whether you’re invited to the regular Disney Social Media Moms Celebration conference or one of the “On-The-Road” locations, you’ll have the chance to learn about the latest Disney news, including the happenings at the parks, with Disney Cruise Line, at Disney Aulani, with the Disney Parks Moms Panel Search, and with Disney Vacation Club. You’ll also receive social media tips and tools and gain valuable insight from speakers at the conferencesDisney Social Media Moms “On-The-Road” at Disneyland Resort was held this year in Disney California Park, inside Stage 17. It was a jam-packed morning and I want to share all about my experience with you. (To read what I did to get ready for this big day, go here.)
Upon arrival at the conference, we were each given a Disney pin so we could participate in some pin trading with the other attendees as we enjoyed a delicious buffet breakfast. Have you ever done pin trading in the Parks? It’s so much fun. I LOVE my new Minnie Mouse pin! She’s adorable! It was fun to pin trade and get to know some of the other Disney Moms in the room.
What followed was a lineup of wonderful speakers, each one sharing either exciting news about Disney or an inspirational story. Lisa Mendillo, Managing Editor at Walt Disney World Resort, grabbed our attention immediately as she began with one of the most magical giveaways you might know of right now: a raffle to win a pair of (highly sought after) Disney Rose Gold EARs! I don’t think I’ve ever heard a room get that quiet in such a short time! We were all crossing our fingers and hoping to be chosen! Although I wasn’t one of them, I was excited to know one of the winners, Tania of Latina Mom TV.! It’s always exciting to see your friends win something! Lisa also touched on some of the latest happenings at the Disney Parks, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani, and the Disney Parks Moms Panel Search.. Here are just a few of those updates:

The World of Pandora – New to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the World of Pandora brought a whole new element to the Park and features.
Rivers of Light – Also new to Animal Kingdom, this past February was the nighttime show “Rivers of Light” which combines live performance, floating set pieces, a soaring musical score, fountains and more in a celebration of animals and nature.
“Happily Ever After'” Fireworks Show – Catch this nightly show in the sky above Cinderella Castle is the most spectacular fireworks showcase in Magic Kingdom history. It starts with a dream…and takes you on an unforgettable journey that captures the heart, humor and heroism.
Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! opened at the end of May inside Disney California Adventure Park at Disneyland Resort. This thrilling attraction takes guests. New for this year at Halloween Time, read about the nightly transformation this attraction will undergo just for Halloween!
Disney Junior Dance Party – This summer, an all-new Disney Junior Dance Party debuted at Disney California Adventure Park. This high-energy, live show experience that takes its inspiration from the most popular Disney Junior shows on TV, including the new series “Mickey and the Roadster Racers,” as well as “Doc McStuffins,” “Sofia the First” and “The Lion Guard.” The show is set to include live appearances from some of your favorite characters, fun music from Disney Junior and much more.
Disneyland Railroad and Rivers of America Attractions – The Disneyland Railroad and the attractions along the Rivers of America (the Mark Twain Riverboat, the Sailing Ship Columbia, and the Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes) reopened at the end of July, after a complete refurbishment, which made room for the upcoming Star Wars area. The scenes along the Rivers of America, which are backdrop for Disneyland Railroad’s route, portray scenes that were inspired by Walt Disney’s true-life adventure movies,
Disney Cruise Line – Marvel Day at Sea features exclusive character interactions where you’ll have a chance to meet astounding Super Heroes and a very extraordinary Villain.
Disney Parks Moms Panel – The 2018 Disney Parks Moms Panel search will begin this year on September 6 as the application period for Round 1 will open.

It seems like there’s always something new and exciting coming soon at either one of the Disney Parks or with Disney, in general. Did you know that the Disney Parks Moms Panel search will begin this year on September 6? The application period for Round 1 of applicants is only open through September 13. If you aren’t familiar with the panel or are still on the fence about applying, here are 3 reasons why I think you should apply this year. Although I’ve never been chosen for the panel, I have applied for it twice before and can tell you what it’s like to apply. It’s a great opportunity for any Disney Mom (or Dad) to pursue. Since I am a huge fan of the Disney Parks Blog, I was really excited when we heard from Erin Glover who is the Editorial Content Director of Disney Parks Blog! She is so knowledgeable about all things Disney and shared some great tips with us about the best ways to share our content from our blogs to social channels.

Just as soon as Erin was finished speaking, a familiar tune started to play in the room. It was “Baroque Hoedown” and if the name still doesn’t ring a bell, that’s the theme song for Disney’s Main Street Electrical Parade. We had our own personal performance at the conference that day as 2 royal couples danced in the front of the darkened room, wearing their beautifully lit-up costumes from the actual parade.
The Main Street Electrical Parade originated inside Disneyland Park in 1972 and just recently returned to the Disneyland Resort this past January for an encore performance which ended on August 19. I’d have to say that this was my most favorite parade of all time, mainly because of how much it reminds me of my childhood. The conference attendees were delighted to be introduced to.Stacia Martin, a Disney Artist and Historian. Ms. Martin has been with the Company for 39 years and as she stood in front of the crowd, up on the stage, she talked to us about so many interesting topics and facts she knew and had come to learn all of these years, while she sketched away, making it look like it was effortless. She first sketched Tink as she talked. Next, she called up my friend Caryn (from Rockin’ Mama) to the stage to sketch her favorite character. What an exciting thing to be called up for! We all watched in awe and as Ms. Martin finished the sketch of Winnie the Pooh. We then learned that Ms. Martin had also sketched a personalized rendering for each of us and that we’d be taking ours home that day! Here’s the one I got to take home. I will treasure it forever!As soon as we were asked to turn off our cell phones and put away any device at the conference, I knew something good was coming next. Sure enough, we got to see a never-before-seen clip from “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” which is a 22 minute animated short from Disney Animation Studios. The short will be shown in theaters this holiday season when it precedes the full length animated feature “Coco”, due to release nationwide on November 22. I don’t want to spoil anything but I am happy that the original (voice) cast is returning for this holiday adventure. Here’s the official trailer:

After the sneak peek we also got to have a Q & A with the directors of this featurette, Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers. Can Thanksgiving hurry up and get here already?
Leanne O’ Regan, Director of Content Relations for Disney Parks, introduced the surprise keynote speaker, Amy Robach of CBS’ Good Morning America. Amy is an amazing journalist and news anchor and sat down on stage with Leanne to share about her journey and her battle with breast cancer.Amy featured a live mammogram on her show, Good Morning America, as a way to encourage viewers to get their own mammograms done. Shockingly, she received devastating results of her mammogram afterwards, as she was told she had breast cancer., Amy shared that it was one of the most eye-opening and shocking events of her lifetime!

“I started surviving the day I got the diagnosis.” – Amy Robach.

All I could do was sit and listen to her story and quietly wipe tears from my own eyes. She is amazing and positive and inspiring and reminds me of a very good friend of mine who is currently battling cancer. Attitude is everything in situations like theirs. It seems like the more positive energy you exude, the more positive outcome you will get!Disney Social Media Moms Celebration “On-The-Road” included such a wonderful collection of presentations and speakers and Disney magic and was nothing short of a memorable experience for the attendees.
I got to connect with influencer friends, many of which I usually only “see” online. There’s really nothing like the community of Disney Moms and how much they support each other and to be in a room filled with many of them that day, was definitely My Happy Place. The conference portion of the day ended at noon but the day was far from over because we were then hosted to play in both Parks until closing time. We were also lucky to be given a pre-loaded FASTPASS to experience the all-new Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and enjoyed the perks of having MaxPass on our Park Hopper tickets that day, which included PhotoPass.(The park photographers are amazing!) I highly recommend trying out MaxPass on your next visit! It is so convenient! It was such a wonderful day and I was so grateful to have been invited this year’s Disney Social Media Moms Celebration “On-The-Road”. A special thank you to Leanne, Courtnee, Lisa, and the entire Walt Disney World Resort Events Team for including me. You can join in on the conversation by following the hashtag #DisneySMMC on Twitter and Instagram. I also recommend you follow @DisneyMoms on Twitter, too, so you can keep up with the latest announcements regarding the Disney Parks Moms Panel and other exciting events up and coming with Disney Parks.

Plan Easter Brunch From the Palm of Your Hand With Evite!

March 22, 2016 / Technology/Social Media

I was compensated by Evite for my time in developing this post. All opinions are 100% my own.

Spring is my favorite time of year! I love hearing the chirps of baby birds and getting to wear my new sundresses and sandals excites me too! (Ok, technically we can do that year-round, here in California.) All of the bright flowers in bloom make me happy!

Planning a get-together for Easter is always fun for me to do too, because I enjoy any excuse to get together with friends and family. This year, Easter just kind of snuck up on me and although I’m great at pulling things off at the last minute, I was grateful to discover that Evite has an app for my iPhone! I downloaded it and within minutes, I had the information for our Easter Brunch filled out and an adorable family party invitation sent from my phone to my favorite “Peeps”! (aka my friends and family)

Evite offers free and premium cards that you can customize. It’s is the perfect solution for busy people on the go, which are probably most of us. When I plan a get-together, I like to carry the theme through, beginning with the invitation and extending throughout the details of the party. How adorable is the design I picked?

One of the conveniences I love about using Evite is that it allows me to check the status of the RSVPs, so I can plan better when I go shopping for our Easter Brunch. There’s also an option to add a feature that guests can sign up to bring something, if you’re planning a potluck type of party. It eliminates 5 different people all showing up with a gelatin salad! (Let’s hope NO ONE shows up with one of those though!) It’s such a great way to keep organized! We are really looking forward to our Easter Brunch. Easter egg hunting, delicious brunch food, bottomless mimosas, pretty Easter attire, but mostly getting to create more holiday family memories together! What are your plans for this Easter? Have you thought about organizing your Spring get-together with an Evite? It’s a great resource!

ZooMoo: The World’s First Interactive Kids Channel Devoted Entirely to Animals and Nature, Now Available in The U.S. on DIRECTV

January 7, 2016 / Technology/Social Media

Did you know that 80% of children’s dreams are about animals? That’s right! According to research, children are hardwired to be interested in animals. However, if that isn’t nurtured and reinforced when they are young, they are at risk of never developing a sense of respect and caring for the nature and wildlife.
ZooMoo, the world’s first children’s channel devoted entirely to animals and nature, is now available in the U.S. exclusively on DIRECTV, as part of the AT&T family! This is wonderful news! Following its highly successful launches in Mexico and throughout Latin America, ZooMoo, is now available here to nearly a million homes throughout the country. It is now the only channel in Spanish for pre-school age children and their parents and is available to DIRECTV Spanish base package subscribers on channel 432.

WHAT IS ZOOMOO?

Designed is a channel that was designed to foster a lifelong love for animals and nature through a safe and unique television experience, that is both entertaining and educational for young viewers and parents alike, ZooMoo interweaves puppetry, animation, and the world’s best natural history footage available in HD to tell stories about the animal world.
ZooMoo’s programming was developed in consultation with a team of leading childhood learning specialists from New Zealand’s University of Otago.

DTVUS Sizzle ENG (1)

The channel is also complemented by a free downloadable App to provide a one of a kind multiplatform experience that allows ZooMoo channel viewers to automatically collect animals they encounter on the TV screen and bring them to life on their tablet or smart phone with games, music, puzzles and other activities. The standalone revolutionary ZooMoo App, which when synced to the channel enhances the interactivity by also turning smartphones and tablets into an extension of the channel, was recognized earlier this year with a Parents’ Choice Approved Award Seal of Approval from the Choice Foundation in the United States.

Karin Simoncini, ZooMoo’s head of programming and production was talked about ZooMoo and said, As a Latina mom of young children I’m personally thrilled that we at ZooMoo are partnering with DIRECTV to bring ZooMoo to Spanish-speaking audiences in the United States, where today, according to Pew Research Center, there are nearly twice as many Hispanic preschoolers as non-Hispanics in the U.S. DIRECTV deserves to be commended for its commitment to offering this audience a fully interactive ‘all animals, all the time’ entertainment experience that will be educational and incredibly engaging.

ZooMoo was developed by its CEO and former president of Fox Networks Group, David Haslingden and has already been seen in 23 countries with a worldwide audience of more than 140 million, ZooMoo’s programming is comprised of wholly original animal stories that have been scheduled into unique one hour blocks. The ZooMoo channel made its worldwide debut in Brazil in September 2013. In September 2014, DIRECTV began offering ZooMoo to customers in Argentina, the Caribbean, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Uruguay.

ZooMoo’s leading cast consists of funny, furry puppet characters who help young children develop a knowledge and affection for animals, leading to a lifelong love of conservation, including:

Flash, an engagingly good-natured photographer, dedicated, dependable and very charming, he is a keen adventurer with genial humor and a constant can-do attitude who explores the world and often ends up in unknown places in “Lost” and travels to different habitats to find out what animals are really thinking in “Look Who’s Talking?”
Piglet, a high-energy blast of boundless, breathless enthusiasm, who invents amazing solutions in her awesome workshop and explores the planet in her “Adventure Machine.”
Owl, who’s smart, wise, particular and slightly precious, as he guesses which animals Flash has sent him in “Download This!”
Ninja Gorilla, who uses his astounding ninja super-powers to turn everyday objects into amazing balloon creations in “Ninja Pop.”
Baby DJ, a little monkey with headphones, bling and a cheeky grin whose mission is to turn the tables on all things animal and get everyone up dancing.

ZooMoo’s U.S. operations are headed by Los Angeles-based General Manager Julio Sobral, a longtime Fox Networks Group executive, alongside Miami-based Marketing Manager Alvaro Krupkin, former director of creative services and production for Telemundo Cable Networks.

Handstand App – Workouts on Demand! It’s Like a Gym in Your Pocket!

July 29, 2015 / Apps, Technology/Social Media

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% my own.

Let’s talk about working out! For many of us, including myself, getting into a good workout routine, and maintaining it, can sometimes be difficult. Whether your job requires long hours in the office, a series of what seem to be never-ending business trips, or just has you stressed out, it can sometimes cause you to get off track with keeping active. I know many moms who spend so much time caring and doing for others in their home, that they don’t leave much time for themselves. (I may be speaking from experience here.)

Here’s the thing…nowadays, it’s more important than ever, to maintain our health and an active lifestyle. We honestly can’t afford NOT to work out. We need to be here for our family and friends, especially those who rely directly on us. We need to be able to do our jobs and and do them well. We have appointments, errands to run, events to attend. Most of us have extremely busy lives and the best way to keep up with it all, is to stay healthy.

Well, there’s a new Handstand App that’s the perfect way to help balance all of it. For me, a lot of the reason I don’t find time to work out is because of my schedule. With this app, you can schedule workouts when it’s going to work for you!

The app, Handstand, is new and currently services the greater Los Angeles area. It gives users the ability to sort, book, and pay for top certified trainers and instructors to come to them…all with just a tap! With Handstand, you’re able to schedule a session of yoga at home, a cardio bootcamp class with your best friend at the park, or do some weight loss training at your apartment gym. Whatever your preference, you have that freedom to schedule what works for you! It’s like having a gym in your pocket!

All of the trainers on the Handstand app are $49 an hour and come from the top gyms and studios in LA such as Equinox, Barry’s Bootcamp, The Bar Method, YogaWorks, and many notorious others. The Handstand app has been featured on several news segments and publications such as Focus Magazine for Los Angeles.

The user base for the Handstand App is mainly comprised of young professionals, mothers, fathers, and families. The popular website HandstandApp.com, and now iOS app, allow users to choose their trainer, as opposed to just being assigned one at a gym. There’s no tipping, no hassle, and no cash payment involved. Handstand allows you to pay seamlessly through the app. You’re emailed a confirmation of your scheduled session and even sent a text one hour prior to your session! How helpful is that?

After a workout, users have the option to rate their trainer and leave a review if they wish. They can choose to rebook the same trainer for their next workout session or may also find another one. There are no contracts required!

It’s beyond convenient to be able to schedule a workout that fits your own needs, all from the palm of your hand. With the Handstand App, there’s no more dealing with driving in traffic or inconvenient class times or the lack of variety of workout options. There isn’t even a gym membership required. It’s just a free download of the app and you’ll be ready to get started!

Just remember, with the right trainer or instructor by your side, you can do anything! We face challenges everyday. Exercising shouldn’t be one of them! I have a special promo code for my readers too! It’ll save you $15 off your first Handstand session! Just enter the promo code below! So…what are YOU waiting for? Download the Handstand app today and schedule your next workout!

Connect with Handstand on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Some images property of Handstand.

Mickey’s Beach Bash at Disney Social Media Moms Celebration #DisneySMMC

July 7, 2015 / Conferences, Disney, Technology/Social Media, Travel

As if staying at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort during the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration wasn’t amazing enough, we were invited to attend a private family party on the shore of the Beach & Yacht Clubs on one of the nights. As our family walked together towards the beach, we could hear relaxing steel drum music playing in the distance. The beautiful sunset that evening reflected off Disney’s Boardwalk and the lake in the background. I loved the casual vibe in the air and how relaxed everyone was. It was so fun to see Mickey & his friends dressed in “beachy” attire for the occasion, I was also in awe of the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration sand sculpture that must have taken quite some time to carefully construct.

Everywhere we turned, there were mini buffets set up for guests to enjoy delicious salads, gourmet main dishes and delectable desserts. The chefs at Disney really took the time to put together a menu that offered something for everyone in a family, even including adults and children with dietary restrictions and food allergies. There was also an bar set up along the beach, serving all kinds of drinks, including some refreshing tropical libations for the adults. It’s much more fun to drink Rum Punch through a Mickey straw, don’t you agree? The kids had a blast playing on the sand and dancing with the Mickey and his frends, as well as some of the young, energetic Disney dancers. My daughter adores Teen Beach Movie, so this kind of dancing and entertainment was right up her alley! I enjoyed myself immensely and took advantage of the time to connect with other social media Disney friends like Flowers Croon and her daughter. Mickey’s Beach Bash was a blast and definitely a night our family will always remember!

I was invited to The Disney Social Media Moms Celebration as media and received a media rate for our accommodations. All opinions are 100% my own.

4 Intangible Things I Took With Me to The 2015 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration! #DisneySMMC

May 14, 2015 / Conferences, Disney, Technology/Social Media, Travel

In the two years I’ve been blogging, I’ve been fortunate enough to attend a few different conferences. I love going to conferences! The more I attend, the more I want to seek out to attend! I take away something new and valuable from each conference and always leave feeling recharged and newly inspired. I’ve also experienced what I like to call “conference regrets“. If you’re not sure what those are, they are the things you wish you’d done at a conference, but either forgot or were too intimidated to do, for whatever reason. I feel like I get brave after the conference is over, except then it’s too late to go back. I’m almost sure that every blogger has experienced “conference regrets” at least once in their career. What I’ve found to be most effective for tackling this problem is to take some time, prior to attending a conference, to set some small personal conference goals for myself.

I was recently invited to attend The 2015 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration at Walt Disney World Resort. I can still remember how magical it was when I opened that email containing such a special invitation! I think I let out a squeal that was probably heard around the world! It was such an honor to be invited and I really couldn’t believe it had happened for me. I KNEW I had to make every moment of what would be a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” count! So, in the weeks leading up to the conference, I proceeded to jot down notes on post-its until I’d put together a list of my personal goals for this conference.

At first I felt a bit overwhelmed by this goal-setting because I didn’t know what to expect from the conference itself. I’d heard so many stories and read several posts from others who had attended in the past, but I really wanted to focus on what was most important for me to take away from the experience. Finally, I compiled a list of 4 intangible things I’d be bringing with me to The 2015 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration, so let me share these things with you!

The first thing I brought to the conference was my love for Disney. I believe each and every one of the invited attendees has a love for Disney that’s unique and special. My own love for Disney stems from my childhood. I grew up in Southern California and our family was fortunate enough to live very close to Disneyland. (It was just Disneyland back then, not Disneyland Resort) As a child, I got to visit the park about once a year, usually during summertime. Visiting Disneyland with my family, as a little girl, is one of those childhood memories I can still actually recall vividly.

My love for Disney has grown by leaps and bounds as I’ve grown up. (Confession: I’ve actually never grown up though) I’m a proud Disneyland Resort Annual Passholder and visit the parks as frequently as I can. As a mom, I’ve had the opportunity to create special Disney memories with my own daughter. My love for Disney also carries over into many other aspects of my life too. I try to live life in “a Disney way”, which is something other lovers of Disney can fully understand. To be in an entire ballroom filled with other Disney-loving moms (and a dad) was an amazing experience.

Optimism was a very important thing to bring with me as well! It’s beyond important to come to a conference with an optimistic attitude. I consider myself a “Glass Half-Full Kind of Girl” and always try my best to see a positive side in every situation. Each conference is an new opportunity to connect with other influencers and often times, brands. If you walk in with a positive attitude and are full of optimism, it’ll draw people towards you and they’ll to want to get to know you. It’s also something that will make brands want to work with you. I’m always optimistic that something good is going to happen. Remember, “If you can dream it, you can do it!” Stay optimistic!

I’ve saved the best for last. I think courage and confidence are the most vital things you can bring to a conference! I am speaking from experience and as someone who has had “conference regrets” in the past for not bringing these with me! As I entered the convention center at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and started to walk down the long hallway, it felt as if my breath had literally been stolen away. (in a good way) Hanging from the boughs were these amazing and enormous banners! It was surreal. I had mixed emotions at the moment before I entered the room for registration. On one hand I felt like royalty, on the other hand, doubt started to set in and I began to second guess myself. You can’t do that! You CAN’T doubt yourself! This is where courage comes into play!

If this starts to happen to you, just do what I did….I gave myself a pep talk (inside of my head of course). I told myself that I needed to remember my courage! I needed to have courage and confidence because I was there for a reason! I needed to have courage to approach people and make those connections that I’d come all this way to make. I needed to have courage and confidence in myself when others would ask me about what it is that drives the passion behind my own blogging. It’s important to remember that you are worth something! You are just as good as anyone else at the conference! If you think for one moment that you aren’t as good as some of the “bigger bloggers” who may also be at the same conference as you, just remember, they were once just like you! Honestly, if you approach most of those women, you’ll find that they aren’t as intimidating as you envision. I’ve become friends with many of the “bigger bloggers” and I can say they are some of the kindest, most uplifiting women in social media and, often times, will even help you out.

I packed all 4 of these intangible things into my suitcase and took them with me to The 2015 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration. I walked into that conference with all that I needed and I did my best! What’s most important to remember is why you came and what you hope to achieve. As you can see, I took a leap of faith (or should I say a jump of faith). Believe in yourself and don’t ever lose your courage or confidence!

Blended Conference is Near and Dear to My Heart! Here’s Why I Think YOU Should Attend!

March 31, 2015 / Conferences, Technology/Social Media

I will totally admit that I’ve been excited about attending Blended Conference since the 2015 date was announced! Actually I may have been excited about it for even longer than that! I truly can’t wait for September 18! I love conferences, I love road trips, and I LOVE Blended!

Blended is a blogging conference in Arizona, started by Wendy from Around My Family Table. In its first year, it began as much smaller event, with just a small circle of Arizona food bloggers and food enthusiasts in attendance. That first event was so successful that it transformed it into a larger conference the following year, to include bloggers of every niche. It has become Arizona’s premiere blogging conference! This year, Blended will be held September 18 & 19 at Arizona Grand Resort in Phoenix, Arizona. You should save that date on your calendar and grab a ticket for Blended here. Did I already mention how excited I am to attend?

I’m so honored to be a Blended ambassador this year. It was the first blogging conference I attended when I was a brand-new blogger. I’ll never forget how much I took away from that amazing weekend, back in 2013. They say “you’ll never forget your first blogging conference” and I think it’s actually very true!

So, let’s talk about some of the things that are bound to happen if you attend Blended Conference this year….

You’ll learn something new: Whether you blog for fun or are trying to build your own unique brand, you’ll definitely learn something new at Blended. Actually, I think you’ll learn many new things. I know I learned a ton at Blended last time. There is an amazing lineup of speakers scheduled already. Have you seen yet? You’ll have so many opportunities to ask questions about things you’re dying to know about, relating to the world of blogging and social media. You’ll also find that you pick up a lot of tips from other bloggers you end up networking with.

You won’t go hungry: For me, this is an important one. (Can you tell I’m a foodie?) I can guarantee that you will not go hungry at this conference! Between the meals and the snacks, you don’t have to worry! Also, there’s usually an “unofficial” Blended dinner after Saturday’s conference, that all are invited to join, so the eating continues!

You’ll leave with some fun swag and might even win a prize: Not only did I go home from Blended last time with two bags of really fun swag, but I also got lucky and won one of the prizes in a drawing. I know there’ll be plenty of those this time around too. Everyone loves swag!

You’ll get to meet a bunch of the Arizona Bloggers and maybe even gain a “Bloggy BFF”!: The circle of Arizona Bloggers is pretty big and they’re all pretty awesome! Being able to add them to your social media network is a definite plus. The Arizona bloggers were some of the first social media superstars I got to know in person and since attending that year, some of them have become some of my good blogger friends. It’s wonderful to know such incredibly positive, helpful, and supportive women. These are the kinds of qualities you can appreciate when you’re building your “tribe”.

I actually met one of my “Bloggy BFFs” at Blended. She was someone I’d looked up to online and when I met her I think I was “fangirling“! (Do you know Heather from Brie Brie Blooms? Well it’s her!) After eating lunch at the same table that day, we realized how much we had in common and we have become great friends. What’s even more fun about it is that our daughters are friends too. They both claim to be kid bloggers too, so they’ve also got that in common. Bloggy friends are the best!

You’ll most likely develop “Conference-itis”… If you’re not sure what that is yet, it’s when you get the itch to attend another conference right after you’ve just attended one. Maybe we should call it getting “Conference Fever“? I can’t get enough conferences under my belt. It’s one of my favorite things to do!

You’ll get to meet me!: I’ve saved the best part about attending Blended for last…you’ll get to meet me! I’m not trying to toot my own horn here, but I’m really fun to hang out with AND I’m a great friend to have!

If you haven’t had a chance to browse the Blended Conference schedule yet, click here. Tickets are already on sale and you can still grab one at the early bird price until May 1, by clicking here. Arizona Grand Resort is offering unbeatable rates for Blended attendees. You need to take a peek here.

I hope you’ll be joining us at Blended Conference!

Leave a comment below if you’re attending so we can connect more beforehand too!

Connect with Blended Conference on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

I was provided with a discounted ticket to Blended Conference as part of the Blended Ambassador Program. All opinions are 100% my own.

Blended Conference 2014: Why YOU Should Attend!

March 31, 2014 / Conferences, Technology/Social Media, Travel

Last Fall, I had the opportunity to attend Blended: A Conference in the Desert. It was the first blogger conference I ever attended. I was what you’d call a “newbie blogger”. (I actually still am) Although I was excited to attend, I was also very nervous about it. (I now know there was nothing to be nervous about) Although I’m not a shy person, blogging, and all that it entails, was an area new to me, so I really wasn’t very sure of myself or even HOW I’d come across to others. At that point, I was even still trying to figure out my blogging niche, as well as the tech side of blogging.
I cannot even begin to describe how invaluable that experience of attending Blended last year was to me! It was a 1 day conference last year. This year, it’s an entire weekend and after I saw the location and the agenda for the weekend, I got even more excited!

I’m going to give you 5 great reasons why YOU should attended Blended this year!

Reason #1
You should attend because I will be there!
Yep, I wouldn’t miss Blended Conference 2014 for the world! I am so excited for the little road trip back to Arizona, from California, to see all of the friends I made at the conference last year, as well as to meet a whole bunch of new ones! (including you!) I’m not saying that I am like a headliner for the conference or anything, because I’m not, but I would consider myself a pretty fun bloggy friend to have. Oh, and I LOVE taking selfies with friends! Please attend so I can meet you!
Reason #2
You should attend because the ladies who are responsible for running the conference are are not only amazing, but are also both named “Wendy”, which happens to be my name, so seriously, how can that NOT be a good enough reason on its own?
I first met Wendy O’Neal from Around My Family Table and Wendy Wright from Choosing Love and Arizona Moms Network online. Before getting to actually meet these 2 in person, I was worried I’d be intimidated when I met them, but once we were all together at a dinner the night before the conference last year, I immediately felt comfortable talking to them and several other people I’d refer to as super bloggers, who I’d also only met online. I will admit that I sat there #fangirling Wendy and Wendy at the conference, but that’s a good thing. They definitely land in my book as “superwomen” and I’m proud to be a part their #TeamWendy. Obviously if your name is also Wendy, you REALLY need to make sure to get to this conference!
Reason #3
You should attend because you’ll have so many opportunities to network with other bloggers, the speakers and with some brands.
This is a very important reason, especially if you are a new(er) blogger! Networking, meeting other bloggers, including the conference speakers, and actually starting relationships and friendships with them, is probably one of the most useful things you can take away from a conference. There is a big difference between meeting someone online, like on Facebook or Twitter, and actually meeting them in person, allowing them to get to know you, and you being able to get to know them. You never know who the person sitting next to you or across the table from you, really is, or what connections they may have. They also may see something in you that they like and throw some great opportunities your way! You just never know!
You also have the opportunity to network with brands, because there are brands represented at Blended conference and at certain times during the conference days, you have time to actually introduce yourself and meet some of the brands’ PR people. PR people are really just regular people, so although it may be intimidating to approach them, you should just do it. Approach them with your business card, introduce yourself and just chat with them briefly.
You honestly never know who is going to make a positive connection with you or when it will happen, but it will! I speak from experience and like I said before, I’m still a newbie.
Reason #4
You should attend because, once again, there is a going to be a fabulous agenda with fabulous speakers (and fabulous food) at Blended this year!

If you take a peek over the agenda, what you’ll find is a ton of fun and knowledge coming your way!

*Scheduled Head Shots with Kate Eschbach on Friday afternoon!

*Hands-on Workshops on Friday night
*Maureen Fitzgerald, also known as Wisconsin Mommy, will be talking about Creating a Media Kit.
*Christine Pittman from Cook the Story, will have a Food Styling…Live session.
*Dan Morris of Letters from Dan and Blogging Concentrated, will be presenting SEO Simplified.
*Rachel Martin of Finding Joy, will show How to Create an ebook from Your Existing Content
*Marley McMillan Beelman of Namely Marley, will present The Joy of Blogging
*Dear Blogger breakout sessions, for both beginning and advanced bloggers
*no hosted blogger dinners
*Blogging Concentrated for advanced bloggers presented by Dan Morris of Letters from Dan
Reason #5
You should attend because Blogging Concentrated for advanced bloggers is going to have its own day during Blended this year!
This is an incredible offering that you just shouldn’t pass up and very unique to this conference to have a component piggy backing like this! I had the pleasure of meeting Dan Morris recently at another conference and not only is he going to present a wealth of information, he is also a really fun guy to hang out with!

I could probably give so many more reasons why YOU should attend Blended Conference this fall! Maybe I’ll write a 2nd post with Reasons #6-10….maybe!

To get more information about Blended and register for it, click here.

I hope to see you there!