conferences | A is for Austin

Once again, BlogathonATX has offered Texas bloggers an amazing full day conference covering the need-to-know and want-to-know details for blogging better, protecting intellectual property and monetizing our creative work.

Okay, all of that plus a whole lot of sugar, hugs, caffeine, breakfast, laughter, catching up, lunch….and did I mention sugar and caffeine?

Who goes to Blogathon ATX?

The simple answer is, well, it’s not so simple. This is a conference for for beginners. And pros. It’s for people who are just getting the courage to start that blog they’ve been thinking about for the past two years, and people who are thinking about rebranding an existing site. It’s for people who love to write for the joy of it, and for people who are looking for ways to turn writing a blog into a source of income.

But isn’t Blogathon ATX 2014 over?

Yes, this year’s event has come and gone. But I wanted to mention it because it’s not too early to start thinking about Blogathon ATX 2015. After all, there will be treats!

Twice a year, moms in Austin are treated to a full day of inspiring speakers, networking, a good dose of laughter and even a few tears at MomCom Austin.

Founded by PR pro Trish Morrison (who I have been lucky enough to get to know since moving here!), MomCom Austin gives local moms a chance to hear from successful business women, writers, bloggers and leaders who are also moms. “It’s a place where it’s okay to say you went to a meeting with baby puke on your sleeve,” said one attendee. “We all understand because we’ve been there, and that feels great.”

This was my first MomCom Austin, and after hearing the speakers and talking with the other mom’s I agree with the another comment I overheard. “You mean, it’s not just me? I feel so much better!” Trish has created an event where we all feel better for not being the only one. Everyone there knew what it meant to be a mom and whatever else you’re trying to be, too.

This year’s summer event at The Oasis introduced attendees to new inspiration and new food for thought. We got to hear from Palo Alto Software CEO Sabrina Parsons about doing interviews while nursing her newborn, and Tiffany Harelik, the author of Trailer Food Diaries, about incredible loss and unexpected (but well earned) success.

The speakers made us laugh (thinking about Wendy Aarons’ letter to the creators of the mind-boggling “Have a Happy Period” Campaign still makes me giggle out loud!). And the speakers made us cry (how do you keep going when you lose everything? One speaker knew first hand.)

Best of all, they made us all feel that almost anything was possible.

Yes, there is a registration fee for MomCom Austin. But the modest ticket price is nothing compared to the incredible feelings we all had when the day was done. Thank you, Trish! I can’t wait until January!