What's it like to go to Alt NYC?
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When I decided I was going to Alt Summit, I started looking around the blogosphere for what it’s like to attend (of course, there are now three different summits and the atmosphere is different at each). I was specifically interested in what it was like to go to Alt NYC and didn’t find what I was looking for (though it very well may exist somewhere). This post is my answer to the question, "What’s it like to go to Alt NYC?" I hope that it helps my friends, family and future attendees get a feel for the activity and work that goes into the event
The morning began bright and early. When I arrived (with my tote of business card bags in tow), I was given a name tag, told to choose buttons that fit my blog content and loaded down with awesome swag. I then entered the gorgeous, open space of Martha Stewart Omnimedia and got down to business. I first connected with a few women I met at the atly dinner the night before and warmed up my conversation skills on them. Other people were eating breakfast, doing crafts at various stations and tables, or chatting; I started roaming. I had brought my camera which gave me something to do, but in hindsight just wasn’t necessary because the professional photographer, Justin Hackworth, took so many beautiful photos and shared them via Flickr. Advice: You can definitely get by with a camera phone which leaves you open to concentrate on “live" coverage on Instagram and Twitter. You cannot get by without a big bag.
After about two hours, we were called to take our seats so the serious business could begin. Founder sisters Gabrielle Blair and Sara Urquhart made announcements and then it was time for the first keynote, Grace Bonney from Design*Sponge. Following her talk, I was absorbed in my notes and looked up to see Martha Stewart on stage (cue cameras!). After a quick word from her, a panel made up of Kathleen King of Tate’s Bake Shop, Bob McClure of McClure’s Pickles and Stephanie Housley of Coral & Tusk spoke on their American Made brands.
Following our busy morning, we were invited to lunch sponsored by Family Search and continued meeting fellow attendees. Some people had come with a buddy (which I’m sure provided mutual support), but I had come alone, put my introversion on the shelf and got used to introducing myself to strangers. Everyone I met was super nice and I exchanged cards and easy small talk with them. One of my goals of going was to find “my community" and I certainly did that; there were so many talented creatives there, I came away from those interactions feeling happy and invigorated. Lunch was delicious, but I was so busy talking I don’t think I ate much! Advice: Eat your food so you have energy later.
Following lunch were two presentations. The first was a panel made up of Tracey Stewart of Moomah, Jennifer Rubio of Warby Parker and John Jannuzzi of Lucky Magazine talking about brands and social media. The second was something called a nine by five where experts present for five minutes or less. Presenters included Nate Padavick and Salli Swindell, Ginny Wolf of ONE.org, Jen Lee Koss of Brika and Ross Popoff-Walker. After so much excellent information, we were ready for another break. Advice: Get your questions ready because most of the presentations end with a short Q & A.
Before the last keynote, Chevy provided snacks and a car in the middle of the room. Advice: there was usually a gluten-free option, but I also brought and ate a few Lara bars throughout the day. The final keynote was the super cool Garance Doré who brought wit and wisdom to her presentation about creative business.
Alt NYC ended in an after party with roof access. I continued to meet people, connected with new friends and took a turn in the Smilebooth. Bedecked in Martha Stewart creations, the party was an awesome way to end the day.
I think the organizers did an incredible job orchestrating the flow and atmosphere of the event; it was a pleasant mix of fun and professionalism and I look forward to attending again next year. Prior to going, I spent a lot of time fretting over my outfit. I read on Twitter that you should look like your profile picture so that your followers can easily connect with you and I think that’s important advice. A great outfit makes you feel confident and stand out, but wear what makes you feel like you. Advice: be you!
More on business cards and what I learned coming soon!
Photos by Justin Hackworth and sponsored by atly.
