BlogHer: The Night Life

This is my third post on BlogHer ’10. Read the others here: Tutus For Tanner and Emotional Repercussions.

The social scene at this year’s BlogHer conference was better than any previous year. While I didn’t work hard to meet new people and felt awkward when talking about my blogging, I did feel more comfortable with the friends I had made in previous years and with my social interactions in general.

My roommates were the best. I barely saw Liz because she was that in-demand blogger who got invited to lots of off-site parties. I teased her about it, but I’m really very happy for her (and just a little jealous). I spent most of my time with Diana and Kendra and really enjoyed getting to know them better.

The parties that have become tradition (People’s Party, Sparklecorn, CheeseburgHer, etc.) were more integrated into the conference and taken to a whole new level. There was more s p a c e. There were tables so you could chat with friends, or just have a “home base” for your stuff while you were on the dance floor. There were DJs and bar service and snacks aplenty.

I danced my ass off.

Photo Credit: Liz @ This Full House

Aside from the parties, there was the BlogHer 5K. I walked through Central Park with Diana and Carmen, two bloggers I admire and respect. We chatted as I soaked in my surroundings and the experience.

Late Friday evening, Amie hosted a photo walk and I strolled along humbly with some terrific photographers. Check out Diana’s photos of a man break-dancing. This is the best photo I took:

On Thursday afternoon, I dragged Diana and Kendra, 12+ blocks to Serendipity. I love this place and was excited to share it with my friends. But there was an hour and a half wait and no one wanted to hang out that long. So we started back toward the hotel after I told them “It’s New York, there’s food everywhere.” Only I didn’t realize we were in the 5th Ave shopping district and there really wasn’t food everywhere. We ended up at some place called the Health Bar (I think?) that was disappointing. And I felt like an ass. On the bright side, Kendra spotted Jason Castro from American Idol and I snapped their pic!

My final analysis of BlogHer?

• More session time slots, less sessions per slot.
• I could do without all the keynote speeches. I’d vote for an inspiring, motivational, business-type opening keynote (Blissdom got this right with Kevin Carroll), then a closing keynote (which I enjoyed immensely this year at BlogHer). On day two? Just get right to the sessions.
• I don’t need speed-dating or a morning break. Breakfast is good for that.
• Keep up the good work with the parties. They were fun and inclusive.

What did you think of this year’s BlogHer conference?