Lest you think that the International Food Bloggers Conference was a full-on bummer for me (see previous post), let me assure you that it was anything but. Oh, sure, there was drama, but I think a certain amount of drama is natural in any situation where you’ve got 250 people together in one place for the better part of 3 days. No? So, let me tell you about the really good stuff:
The evening of Day One began the more promising parts of IFBC. I finally met up with a bunch of bloggers I’ve gotten to know and love through Twitter and their gorgeous sites; and James Oseland of Saveur Magazine gave our pre-dinner speech. It’s reassuring to know that not all print publishers consider food bloggers to be dilettantes. I suspect many came away with different interpretations of some things he addressed, but he was most inspiring.
Dinner was a vast improvement over lunch:
Beef Cheeks – Need I say more?
Day Two brought us sessions on Modernist Cuisine (will anyone forget the time-lapse video of the popcorn kernel popping?), pitching to editors and publishers (the only thing I really got out of that one was that bribery frequently works – use chocolate), and the most inspiring presentation of all – Digital Photography with Saveur contributor & incredibly talented photographer, Penny De Los Santos (don’t take pictures – make pictures! and she doesn’t own a macro lens, y’all, so save the $200!).
Lunch brought us the “Gourmet Food Trucks of the Northwest”, and this was a stroke of brilliance on the part of the organizers, if you ask me! Check it:
Falafel
Pizza from a traveling wood-fired oven!
Strawberry Balsamic Ice Cream
Salted Caramel Ice Cream
Lemon Sugar Crepes
And let’s not forget the people, the connections, the friends we made and bonds forged in an atmosphere of (mostly) like-minded people. I came away from IFBC ’10 with new and strengthened friendships, and most of all, a renewed desire and commitment to keep doing what I’m doing – taking my blog and my life in directions as yet unexplored. Thanks, Foodista!
I’m turning the page and starting a new chapter, people. I hope you’ll come along for the ride!
It was sort of prophetic for you in some ways…as you leave a long term job and forge forward with…well, that is the question, huh?So glad you found some inspiration and support; the plan will come, I'm sure.
I am hungry for that Sunday lunch all over again!!!
Ah indeed, that keynote by James Oseland began the "good parts" of IFBC. Great to relive this through you eyes! So fun to meet you.
Looks like much better food this day. I must admit. I'm one of those who say 2 avocados. Thanks for tip, I'll try to be better! :)Glad it was a good time and you got to meet some fab foodies!