There are soap conferences
and gatherings all over the country, from the huge Handcrafted Soap &
Cosmetics Guild Annual Conference to regional gatherings like Central Soapers
Workshop, Alabama Soap & Candle Meeting, Tennessee Soap and Candle
Social, Mid Atlantic Lights & Lather Artisans, and so many more!
For most of us, saving our
pennies is the beginning and by the time we set sail for the conference, we're
losing our wits! Plus, if you've never been to an industry conference, you
might be totally baffled as to what to expect.
First things first, most
soap conferences provide food (but double check with your specific conference!)
You might want to pack a little snack, like a granola bar or trail mix to munch
on if you get hungry in between meals. Add a bottle of water,
trust me on that one.
While you might be sitting
in on seminars and talks, there will be plenty of milling about and networking.
So, wear and pack comfortable shoes that don't kill your feet. And
clothing? Chances are casual clothing is the way to go. Wearing layers is a smart idea,
as the conference location could be a little too chilly or a little
steamy for your personal thermostat.
Speaking of networking, bring
those business cards. The best part about soap conferences
is meeting up with other like-minded folks. Bring some business cards to trade
info! That last thing you want to be doing is scrambling to write down your
info when talking shop.
It may seem like a
no-brainer to remember medication, but I have to admit, I’ve forgotten! Also,
make sure to bring your healthcare information,
including an insurance card, just in case. The last thing you want is to get
sick or hurt, but if you do, being prepared is important.
A little mini
first-aid pack in
your purse is a lifesaver: pack up a couple Band-Aids, a mini pack of Kleenex,
a travel size bottle of hand lotion, and single dose packet of aspirin.
When you pack your bags,
have a game plan for any swag you might pick up at the soap conference. Most
gatherings have goodie bags or raffle prizes. Set aside money to ship anything
home, if you need to.
Last, but certainly not
least, pack a stellar attitude.
Whichever soap gathering you are going to is a "once a year"
opportunity to put your best foot forward and make connections. Don't shoot
yourself in the foot by playing the shy guy.
Step out of your comfort
zone and see how many new people you can meet. Scope out other attendees in
advance and make preliminary connections on social media, if it puts you at
ease. And while you might love seeing your soapy sisters (and brothers) that
you already know inside and out, make sure to reach out and meet new peeps!
I'll be headed to Central Soapers Workshop, the HSCG
Annual Conference, and the Alabama Soap & Candle Meeting this year. Will I be seeing you there? Make
sure to stop and say, hi, okay?!
This post was written by
Kenna of Modern
Soapmaking, the soap maker’s best friend and go-to resource.
(Thank you, Kenna, for this great post about soap conferences! Great bits of info, and so true.... I had a 2 day migraine and forgot my migraine meds at the HSCG conference last year. No bueno. This year, I shall be prepared!)
