This weekend I was blessed to attend my first blogging conference, The Virtual Haven Conference. I had the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational sessions, network with other bloggers, and even meet with brand reps from some awesome home improvement companies like Wagner SprayTech, Ryobi Tools, and Home Depot! Here are some of the top highlights from my first Haven Conference.
Highlights From My First Haven Conference
About The Haven Conference
Haven is a conference specifically for bloggers and influencers who are in the DIY/home decor niche. The Conference is held in Atlanta, Georgia, but of course, this year COVID-19 had other plans (womp, womp).
I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous. As an introvert, the thought of being a “newbie” at the Conference seemed just a bit overwhelming to me.
But, the reality is, I wasn’t alone in my “newbie” status. We were all brand new to the virtual conference world, navigating new software and technology glitches together. There were a few minor hiccups, but as a whole, my first Haven experience couldn’t have been more amazing.
Growing Through Learning
What excited me most about The Haven Conference, was the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the blogging world. Throughout the weekend I attended sessions on everything from utilizing Instagram to grow my blog, to Pinterest best practices. I even participated in a fun calligraphy class conducted via Zoom!
I took A LOT of notes (thanks Haven for the notebook and cute swag bag), and I’ve already started to implement a few of the things I learned. In the next few weeks, I’m also looking forward to watching all of the recorded sessions that I missed during the live event (a bonus of the virtual format).
Finding Your Tribe
Remember when I said I’m an introvert? Large group settings aren’t usually my thing. If I had to choose between a date night out, or a date night in on my couch complete with comfy pj’s, the couch and comfy pj’s wins every time.
But, at the Haven Conference, I immediately felt right at home. I was fortunate to be a part of a wonderful mentor group that was full of talented women from all across the country. Throughout Haven, our mentor, Julie, led Zoom sessions for our small group. We asked questions, shared about our blogging journeys, and formed new friendships that will last far beyond the Conference.
Building Brand Relationships
Without a doubt, one of the top highlights from my first Haven Conference was the opportunity to meet with brands like Wagner SprayTech, Ryobi Tools, and The Home Depot. During the meetings, I was able to ask questions and pitch projects to each brand to be considered for potential future partnerships.
Before Haven, pitching was something I had never done. It was way outside of my comfort zone, but I’m so glad that I did it. The experience encouraged me not to be nervous or to question whether I’m good enough. Now, I’m more determined to put myself out there in front of brands in the future.
Overall, my biggest takeaway from this year’s Haven Conference is that confidence is key! One of my favorite quotes is, “Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.” Nothing could be more true. I hope to carry my new-found confidence with me even on the hard days. (And trust me when I say, in the world of a brand new blogger, there are plenty of those bang your head on the desk kind of days).
Dreaming Big And Looking Ahead
That’s a wrap on the Heart of Haven 2020. My heart is overflowing with gratitude, and I’m excited to continue growing, learning, and dreaming big! I had such a positive experience that I’m already making plans to attend the 2021 Haven Conference.
As always, thanks for stopping by the blog and for reading the highlights from my first Haven Conference. If you have any additional questions about the Conference I’d be happy to answer them. Just drop them in the comments below!
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