Yesterday saw the kick off with BlogCamp UK, run by Tots 100. It is the third time I've attended this event and each year it gets better. I was really excited to be attending with Susanne from for the first time and there were so many bloggers I have got to know via Your Youtube this past year that I really wanted to say hello to.
Tots didn't release the agenda beforehand, so I was interested to see what they had planned. I the end I settled for the pro-blogging session with Sally from Tots, Penny and Becky to kick off the day. It was a really interesting talk, Sally engaged us all with her banter and Penny and Becky had some great information to share about those who are classed as 'pro-bloggers' and now earn a living via their blogs. Whilst I do earned he occasional fee from my blog, it definitely isn't a regular thing, however for me my blog is still a hobby and I think until the children are in school and I have the time to dedicate to putting myself out there that is how it will remain.
After a much-needed cuppa I opted to listen to Kirstie in her travel writing masterclass.
Whilst I don't do a whole lot of travel posts, it is something I've considered branching out into for a while now, and was interested to hear what Kirstie had to share. It was the first time I'd attended a travel session and I was quite surprised at how different it can be as a blogger, from the way you approach opportunities to the way you write them up. Kirstie did a short writing session at the end and showed us how we need to rewrite and edit our writing in order to put together a piece that pulls your audience in. This is something I can definitely apply to all my blog writing ad was really informative. In fact it made me realise I probably need a refresher course on creative writing as it has been so long I couldn't remember what an adverb was!
After lunch I attended the vlogging session which was being run by Sian, who since we started vlogging around the same has become a great friend. I was really interested other what she would be sharing as she has invaluable editing experience after working at the BBC for some years, and she didn't disappoint. Whilst I have been vlogging for over a year, there are plenty of things I am yet to learn so it boosted my drive to keeping working on my channel.
I then stayed seated for the writing workshop from Fiona, who talked us through creating characters, writing a storyline and creating a great top line. I really got a lot from this session and will definitely be using Fiona's advice for writing blog posts in the future.
The final session was a Q&A with a brand panel, although I have to admit to being a bit of a naughty schoolgirl sitting at the back on the bean bags and giggling with Hannah and Sian. I felt a little guilty at not listening properly, but sometimes you just need to be naughty and have a laugh so thank you ladies for bringing out my mischievous side!
I had a really good day at BlogCamp and it was a great start to the next few months of conferences. Next up is Blog On in Manchester, where I am speaking in the video session so if you are attending please do say hello as I will be super nervous!
