5 Must-Read Lessons from LuckyFABB 2013

Disclaimer: I’m a LuckyFABB newbie, but have been to many other professional conferences. There were some interesting and distinct differences, but I think this advice will help you no matter what networking event you’re attending. Hope to see you at LuckyFABB next year!

Pack Light.

People are going to think I’m nuts for this one — fashion conference and all — but I really think that packing light saved me from being crazy stressed out about what to wear. I brought exactly 2 outfits, so the only thing I had to worry about was accessorizing. And you know I like to wear all of that all at once anyway. Plus, the swag bag was a carry-on in and of itself. I was stoked to have a little extra room in my suitcase!

Be Present.

Man, did I have a hard time with this at first and it’s a total rookie mistake. Live tweeting is sometimes {at least} half the fun, but I found myself getting so caught up in listening for pearls of wisdom and wisecracks that I missed entire portions of panels. Big picture is important! Things went better for me when I took a chill pill from the tweeting, instagramming and soul-sucking-battery-draining-internet-connection-searching. Note taking = a-okay.

Get Nerdy.

Don’t be afraid of sessions that sound like they might be beyond your reach. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t skip breakfast because you need energy and brain power for these things. Don’t be afraid to geek out {tastefully} over celebrities. Don’t be afraid to love every nerdy moment.

Dave Cook is probably tired of me shouting his name from the rooftops, but if you want to learn a little about SEO, definitely check out his Grow Your Traffic Through SEO presentation. Long game, but worth it for a blogger in business.

Be Open.

I feel like I learned this one because I am this way myself. At blogging conferences specifically, you’d be surprised by how many people are more comfortable behind a computer screen than in a real-life environment {yep! me! did I mention data digging is my job?} So, don’t be disheartened if it seems like people are staying in select groups or appear to be maybe just the slightest bit stand-offish. Ask engaging questions and don’t forget to smile — your open and positive energy will be contagious!

In other words: if you are excited to meet people, they will be excited to meet you.

Follow Through.

You worked hard to get where you are, so don’t let it go to waste! Maybe you met a bunch of rad people you’re totally into or a brand that you really connected with. My advice is STAY connected. Reach out via the usual channels, leave some blog love, propose a collaboration, just don’t blow off your follow up! Relationships are key. Do your due diligence and watch your network grow.

PS: I consciously did not read any other LuckyFABB recaps before I wrote this post; hopefully it’s not something you’ve read a million times before.

PPS: For my wittier LuckyFABB ramblings, find katefranco on Twitter.

PPPS: Made it to the end because you wanted to know what I’m wearing? You’re impressive.

Head to Toe: Old Navy jean jacket via Poshmark, Lace Top via Poshmark, Tobi Faux leather shorts {get 50% off your first order when you sign up through FB!}, Miu Miu bag via Poshmark, L.A.M.B Harlie II Heels. Jewelry: F21 elephant ring via Poshmark, Lauren Ramirez double finger ring with engraving and diamond, House of Harlow 1960 Long Antler Ring, Low Luv x Erin Wasson ring via Poshmark, Julep holographic polish {so rad}

2nd image via