Over the past ten days I traveled by plane and ferry and logged more than 1,600 miles in our Toyota Avalon. I crossed three time zones, lived out of a suitcase, met dozens of new friends, and finally returned home to the realities of everyday life. The trip was equal parts exhausting and exhilarating.
This adventure began with a long-held dream: attending the Haven blogging conference in Charleston, South Carolina. The Charleston Marriott, right on the river, hosted hundreds of home and decor bloggers for two and a half days of classes, networking, and brand events. My goals were simple: connect with other bloggers, meet brands seeking influencers, and learn new skills to grow my blog. Every goal was met and then some.
Jen / me / Lauren / Julie / Sonya
Highlights of the Haven Conference 2018
Most Practical Packing Advice
As a conference first-timer I watched Facebook conversations and asked many questions about what to bring. The consistent advice: pack an extra bag for swag. Attendees warned the freebies could easily fill another carry-on — and they were right.
Used to traveling with only a carry-on, I stashed a soft duffel with a leather bottom inside my suitcase. After arrival I unfolded it, filled it with conference giveaways, and checked it for the trip home. It worked perfectly. I curated what I kept, gave away items I wouldn’t use, and came home excited to test new products.
For the conference I carried a large tote as my everyday bag — it held my notebook, iPad, glasses, and business cards and doubled as a place to drop small items picked up at exhibitor booths. Occasionally I returned to the room to offload and make space for more finds.
If you want details on outfits I packed, I documented my wardrobe choices on my packing post and linked to tips for traveling light and stylish.
I left my large DSLR and laptop at home, so the photos in this recap were all taken with an iPad.
For those curious about the haul, I shared a Facebook Live showing the swag I brought home.
Best Scene Around
I didn’t explore much beyond the hotel, so I can’t claim to be a Charleston sightseeing expert. What I can say is the Charleston Marriott was beautiful and conveniently air conditioned — a blessing in the humid coastal heat. Between classes, meetings, and events everything I needed was right at the hotel, including good coffee and a cozy restaurant.
I did make two dinners downtown and enjoyed glimpses of Charleston’s historic architecture — it truly is a lovely city.
The Most Delightful Roommates Ever
One of my goals for attending was to have a roommate — both to make a new friend and to share costs. In January I signed on to the conference and soon connected with three amazing women through a Facebook group: Julie, Sonya, and Marissa. Messaging in the months before the event made our first in-person meeting feel like a reunion with friends I already knew.
Marissa / Julie / me / Sonya
We laughed late into the night, encouraged one another, and left as true friends — a reminder that conferences are as much about relationships as they are about education.
Most Helpful Class I Took
I attended sessions on blog organization, SEO, and video, but the class that delivered the most immediate, practical value was Rachel from Maison de Pax’s workshop on photographing interiors with a DSLR. Her images are stunning and her instruction was clear and inspiring. I left eager to apply what I learned to improve my blog photography.
Most Inspiring Story
One surprising moment of encouragement came during a make-and-take craft session when Amy Howard shared her business and faith journey. Her story resonated deeply and remains on my mind as I think about my own path.
Most Memorable Moments
Without question, the people I met were the highlight. Conversations with long-time blogging mentors, new friends, and brand representatives filled the days and evenings. I was thrilled to meet bloggers whose work I admire and to discover that many of them are as warm and generous in person as they are online.
Photo Credit: Haven
Highlights that replay in my mind include advice from Yvonne at Stone Gable, a meaningful dinner with my blog mentor Jenny Melrose, late-night laughter with my roommates, and the thoughtful hospitality of many brand ambassadors. Each conversation reminded me that bloggers are at every stage of their journeys, and the community is generous with time and wisdom.
Vintage Revivals / Thistlewood Farms / The Handmade Home
Most Memorable Quote
On the conference’s first evening Yvonne offered this vivid piece of advice to newcomers: “You’re going to feel like you’re trying to drink from a fire hose at this conference. Just open your mouths and keep drinking… and when you think you’re too tired — just keep drinking!” Those words captured the experience perfectly. I soaked up as much as I could and returned home energized and full of ideas.
For Further Information
Many attendees have shared thoughtful recaps of Haven. If you want additional perspectives on sessions, speakers, and networking at this blogging conference, a number of fellow bloggers posted detailed reflections and summaries that include photos from the event.
- Insights from Jen at Eight Hundred Furniture
- Everything You Need to Know about Attending a Blog Conference by Marissa at Squirrels of a Feather
- Haven Conference 2018 and Why You Should Go by Julie at My Wee Abode
- My First Haven Conference Experience by Sonya
- Haven DIY Conference Recap, Parts 1 and 2 by Lauren at Mom Home Guide
- Haven Conference 2018 by Michelle at Thistle Key Lane
Leaving Haven, I felt energized, encouraged, and ready to apply what I learned. Conferences are more than sessions and swag — they’re about people, inspiration, and the momentum that comes from connecting with a creative, supportive community.
