Wore: Elevate

I truly believe that I’m the best version of myself when I’m surrounded by other inspiring women.

It sounds crazy to say that because in reality it should be intimidating.

Intimidating to be surrounded by more successful bloggers, handmade shop owners, and women who are able to put together incredible conferences. But in actuality I think that as I grow and find my place in this little online space, I become more and more aware of who God wants me to be and that my confidence in who I am comes from Him.

Does this mean that I never feel “less than.” No way. I’m always honest about that, but there’s something about being in a room full of other bloggers, listening to them share their hearts, their stories… a piece of who they are that makes me so grateful for this blogging community.

{Wore: Dress – Old Navy // Wedges – Jessica Simpson // Earrings – World Market // Necklace – Neon & Nude}

{Wore: Anchor Bracelet – Glitter & Gloss; Yellow Stone Gold Bracelet – Neon & Nude}

This past weekend my sweet friend and SNAP rookie Heather flew down to go to Elevate Blog Conference with me. I send the hubby packing for the weekend with his Bible study mens group so that us girls could have the house to ourselves. Friday night we got a babysitter and a small group of us enjoyed appetizers and Sangria on aDuffy Boat in Newport Harbor. Saturday morning Heather and I visited Shampoo & Style:  a Blow Dry Bar for a little R&R before the conference. I have never been to a blow dry bar before, but I promise you it won’t be the last time I go. The ambiance, mimosas and sassy style left me feeling ready for a fun day with my girls.

My girls Heather and Jacqui

I love attending conferences. Size doesn’t matter to me.

I love the idea of collaborating with other women.

Hearing them speak.

Finding new inspiration.

Most of all I really just love meeting new people.

The amazing ladies, Jen, Summer & Nicole, who put Elevate Blog Conference together did an amazing job. From the moment I walked in, which embarrassingly was late (ugh!), I was struck by the bright colors, creative decor and the welcoming smiles of the hostesses. The attention to detail was impeccable!

I wish I had taken a picture of the swag we got when we walked in! OMG it was amazing! Filled with some of my favorite peep’s goodies, including these awesome organic cookies made by Baby Boy Bakery herself. I’m pretty sure I ate 3 of them.

Speaking of amazing women, this is Nat, my dear friend and my SOLE Hope giveaway and Shoe Cutting Party partner. It was so much fun spending the day with her. I can’t wait for our Shoe Cutting Party on June 23rd, but more on that in a different post because y’all there’s so much great stuff to share about Elevate!

There were some incredible speakers: Nina, Becki, Holly & Ashley.

Becki from Whippycake. Y’all this girl is amazing!! She’s so open and willing to share her heart… and the girl is hilarious. She’s seriously my newest favoritest person. And yes those are all real words. hehe

Nina, from Momma Go Round, shared all about finding your voice on your blog. It was awesome!! I’m sure she’ll share all the wonderful details on her blog so go follow her and keep a look out. After she spoke we got to hang out a little… ok I may have stalked her a lot because she’s pretty much amazing! And next time she’s going to be staying at the Circle Party Casa for reals! I mean I loved this girl just from reading her blog, but after spending time with her in person, umm I know we’re destined to be besties. Are you reading this Nina? Just saying.

I couldn’t even begin to tell you how inspiring it was to hear Ashley speak without feeling the tears forming in my eyes. Her story, her heart and her choice to “choose joy” is so incredible. Ashley has been through more than most women should ever have to go through in the past year and her willingness to share on her blog with blatant honesty makes me want to aspire to share my heart with you more often.

It’s days like this one that remind me why I love blogging so much and why this community has grown to be so important to me.

I know that some people don’t understand it.

But for me it’s such an innate part of who I am, and it’s conferences like Elevate, that remind me that I’m right where I want to be.

Blogging.

What would a conference be without craft time.

Y’all this was a major craft fail on my part. I didn’t follow the directions very well, but I think the duck face that Nina taught me make the craft look so much better, don’t you think?

Jacqui & Becki… my Beezies!

My sweet new friend, Lauren.

Ok, seriously…. how much fun is this?

Minute to Win it Blogger style.

I’m pretty sure I laughed so hard tears were streaming down my face.

I played along too, but thankfully there’s no evidence of my madness. haha

So if you’re thinking about going to a conference, go!

I know it can seem as though it would be intimidating, but I promise… it’s not!

It’s worth stepping out of your comfort zone. You’ll meet so many amazing people and be inspired beyond belief.

Thank you to Summer, Jen and Nicole for putting together a wonderful day, where I had the honor being surrounded by amazing women, and creating a space where we could learn, share, craft, enjoy and just be able to be who we are.

Till next time ladies!

PS. If we met at the conference and took a pic together will you send it to me and I’ll add it in? I didn’t get many pictures.

I’m linking up with The Pleated Poppy for What I Wore Wednesday.