Thoughts on a Writing Conference from a Newbie

So. Last weekend I attended the LDStoryMakers writing conference. It was my very first writing conference - ever!

In a word I Loved It! - okay three words.

Over the next few Mondays I will be sharing some of my impressions from the conference. Today I would just like to share a few thoughts about the conference in general - see through the eyes of a newbie.

1. If you like to write and you can - attend a conference.
I loved going to the writing conference. I learned so much. Met a few people (As an introvert I was overwhelmed by all the people so did not break out of my shell very much). And generally had a great time.

2. It is exhausting.
Since I live a mere 1.5 hour drive from where the conference was held I carpooled down and back both days with a group of ladies from my writers group. It was two very long days!

3. Your first time - go with friends.
If you can go with friends your first time - I would. Especially if you are an introvert. It is less intimidating.

4. Choose your sessions wisely.
I went into the conference with one goal - to learn things that would help my writing. So I looked over the offered classes and tried to pick ones on subjects I was weak in. I also went to a few fun ones just because I wanted to.

5. Take good notes.
Take lots and lots of notes. I got so much information thrown at me that there is no way I could have kept all of that in my head.

6. Be prepared to be inspired.
I got an idea for a new writing project in the middle of one of my classes. It was a good thing I had paper and a pencil near by so I could jot down my ideas. Then on the drive home I bounced them off my writers group buddies. Sigh, so wonderful.

Have you ever been to a writing conference? What did you think?