By the time you read this, I'll be "working" my way through the first and busiest day at Convention! It's a jam-packed day, for sure, but sure to be crammed with all kinds of fun, too! Once you find out all of the cool stuff we do at Convention, you are definitely gonna want to be an demonstrator so you can attend next year!
What Really Happens At Convention, Anyway?
I thought you might be interested in knowing what really goes on at Convention, so I'll give you a glimpse of our schedule. I'm writing this before I leave, and I'm hoping that I can check in to give you some "real-time" updates on the goings-on.
Tote Bags of Goodies
When we arrive at Convention, we head straight to Check-In to receive our tote bag filled with goodies! We receive several stamp sets from the new catalog and/or upcoming Holiday Mini, plus a matching Stampin' Around Wheel. We'll be using these stamps at the Make & Take session. Demonstrators who qualify for a sales or recruiting award will also receive their awards with their bag.
Make & Takes
During this session, we receive a packet of supplies to create several make & take projects. Last year we had 8 projects to do in 2 hours—which is no easy task when you are sharing supplies (as you well know!). This year, I was selected to be a Make & Take Helper, which is basically someone who walks around during one of the sessions, answering questions about how the projects are put together. I will attend a training session on Wednesday, where we actually make the projects (so we know what we are doing). I think this will be a fun experience, plus we are reimbursed with new stamp sets—bonus!
Momento Mall
As part of my "VIP" treatment for being a Make & Take Helper, I am allowed to visit Momento Mall before the doors open at 9am on Wednesday. What is Momento Mall? Well, it's a mini store that carries exclusive Stampin' Up! merchandise specifically designed for demonstrators. For example, last year, they had a cute hoodie with the Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Paper pattern on the hood lining and the Razzle Dazzle images embroidered on the front (my favorite purchase). They also had logo shirts, shopping bags in SU colors, nail files in SU paper patterns, Christmas ornaments, and an adorable little Build-A-Bear with a Stampin' Up! apron on. There's all kinds of stuff to spend money on, and demonstrators line up for hours (and I mean HOURS) just to get in the door. I can't wait to see what they will have this year!
Focus Group
Another special thing I'm participating in this year is the Convention Focus Group. I was selected to be a part of a small group of demos who are invited to share their opinions and comments on hot Stampin' Up! topics on Wednesday afternoon. This is sure to be one of the most interesting parts of my trip. Our discussions are confidential because they may concern possible changes in policy or product lines…you know, secret stuff. I feel completely honored to be a part of this discussion. It's like I'm getting a chance to play my small part in making a difference in this company. Too Cool!
Flower Power Party
We top off the first day with a 70s-themed party! We didn't have a party like this last year, but it sounds like it's going to be a dynomite time. Darla and I have packed our groovy outfits, so we'll be ready to boogie down! If you're lucky, we'll have some photos to show you!
See what I mean? It's a very full day! And, I didn't even mention the two business classes in the middle of the day, or the cool displays and presentations we can see during our lunch break. More about these later… If I have time to post while I'm there, you'll find it below under "Convention Journal" below. Otherwise, I'm too pooped from partying! Check back tomorrow.
New Product Sampler Kits
Don't forget to check out my selection of Sampler Kits for the new Designer Series Papers, In Color Ribbon, Buttons and more.
Angie