I wasn't sure what to expect when I signed up for the LDStorymaker Conference. I knew that Valor--my publisher--recommended it (strongly) and that friends enjoyed it, but given my previous experience at similar events, I felt apprehensive. Would it be worth the money? Would I fit in? Would I learn anything? Would I leave, wanting to return next year?
The answer to all of the above is a resounding YES! I have never felt more welcome, more loved, and more understood than I did at this conference. Being surrounded by people who share my goals and want to help other people reach theirs was awesome and uplifting. The food, the entertainment, the door prizes (I won Lael Littke's book, Haunted Sister! Can't wait to read it. :-)) the random famous person wandering the halls, and especially, the AMAZING sessions and lectures all added up to one of the best experiences I've had as a writer.
I learned so many things! I think my favorite part of the conference (lectures and sessions aside) was the clip designed to motivate us as authors which Jaime and Crystal put together and showed during the opening ceremonies. Who else thought that was amazing and uplifting?
What did you think about the conference, if you were able to attend? What was your favorite part?
And, to all my new friends: I'm so excited to get to know you better!
It's hard to say, I enjoyed it so much. I liked the classes & the networking the most. It was a fabulous conference, I'm already looking forward to attending next year.
ReplyDeletePS: It was great to meet you & hear about your journey as a writer!!
It was so awesome to see you again! And girl we are definitely getting together!
ReplyDeleteWe have a tour to plan!
You ROCK!!!
Jenni
I had a similar experience the first year I went. Would it be worth it? Will I learn anything? Will anybody talk to me? And I haven't missed a year since. Such a fantastic group of people...
ReplyDeleteEvery year I'm amazed that the conference is even better than the year before, and this time was no exception. I always get a shot in the arm and go home jazzed to back to the keyboard--and up my game. So glad you came!
ReplyDeleteIt was my first year as well and I was so impressed. I've heard great things about the conference and it surpassed all my expectations. It was amazing to rub elbows with seasoned, new, and potential authors alike. Had a lot of fun meeting fellow bloggers, too. I'm already looking forward to next year.
ReplyDeleteIt was my first year there too, and my first conference. I agree, it was absolutely AMAZING! I blogged about my thoughts as well; I would recommend it to anyone. I hope to make it next year too!
ReplyDeleteThe conference was wonderful. It was fun to meet you--you're phenomenal! Brains, beauty, and one heck of a sweet personality. I am so looking forward to reading your books!
ReplyDeleteI always love the conference, and I've been every year it's been held. I love the upbeat attitude everyone has there, and how encouraging everyone is. I loved the video they put together with the message that yes, it takes a lot of work, but if you're willing to put it in, you can reach our goals just like other successful writers have.
ReplyDeleteYou're working with some awesome people at Valor, enjoy the journey!
The conference inspired me to dream about the day I am published, yet grounded me to my keyboard to work, work, work to get there.
ReplyDeleteI didn't get a chance to meet you Andrea-maybe next year. :)
My favorite classes were the ones taught by Bree Despain and Aprilynne Pike (I blogged about the classes at www.dearestdreams.com ).
Thanks for the post. It was my first year and loved it. I loved the powerpoint they did, too. I left feeling more motivated than ever - and I came pretty motivated!
ReplyDeleteI always enjoy Storymakers. It was wildly fun (and busy!) and I'm sad it's over. I'm both inspired and daunted but determined to keep at it. So glad you had a great time, Andrea!
ReplyDeleteTerresa: It was so much fun to meet you, too! Your hair is absolutely gorgeous, by the way. :-)
ReplyDeleteJenni: AAAHH!! I'm sooo excited for our tour and everything else! We're going to have a blast!
Marion: I've vowed to never miss another year. There's no need to attend any other conference for the rest of my life!
Lori: you are absolutely amazing! I'm sooo glad you were at my bootcamp table. Can't wait to get to know you better. :-)
Christy: We'll definitely have to meet next year - if not before! :-)
Can't wait to see everyone there next year!