Haven Conference Travel Summary

Over the last ten days, my journeys included flights, ferries, and driving more than 1600 miles in our Toyota Avalon.

airplane in the sky

I navigated three distinct time zones, lived from my luggage, and formed bonds with numerous new companions.

Now, I am back at home.

Everyday life is calling.

It was a fast-paced period, equally tiring and thrilling.

This travel spree started with a long-awaited trip to the Haven Blogging Conference in Charleston, South Carolina.

Haven sign with women in front of it

Jen, me, Lauren, Julie, and Sonya

My blogging journey predates the first Haven event, and attending was a long-held ambition that finally came true this year.

The Charleston Marriott Hotel, situated by the river, hosted hundreds of home decor bloggers and enthusiasts for a two and a half day conference. My objectives included networking with bloggers, connecting with brands seeking blog influencers, and acquiring new skills for my blog business.

Every single one of those goals was achieved remarkably!

Many of you shared your excitement for this chance and supported me throughout this experience. I decided to present a summary of my time in an Academy Award style, awarding myself for the 'best of' in every category. Here is the rundown:

Highlights from the Haven Conference

Most Useful Packing Suggestions

Prior to departing, I reviewed discussions on Facebook pages and posed numerous questions regarding what to pack, as a newcomer to the conference, I wanted to ensure thorough preparation.

suitcase sitting on a seat in an airport

The community proved incredibly helpful, offering practical advice on packing and what to leave behind. A consistent piece of advice was to pack an additional bag for all the complimentary 'swag' items, which could potentially fill a whole carry-on. They were not exaggerating!

Since I usually travel with only a carry-on, I placed a soft duffel bag with a leather base inside my carry-on suitcase. Upon arrival, I retrieved it, filled it with the goodies, and checked it in for the return trip.

The plan was a success. I thoughtfully selected items to keep and shared some swag if I didn't anticipate using them. Nevertheless, the collection I brought back is very exciting, and I eagerly await using these items.

I also utilized a large bag as my 'purse' for the plane, which also served as a tote at the conference. I kept my notebook, ipad, glasses, and business cards inside and carried it everywhere. It was spacious enough to hold small items from brand booths, and occasionally I would return to my room to organize the new acquisitions.

(For details on the clothing I packed and wore, please see this link.)

I chose not to bring my large digital camera or my laptop, so all the images in this post were captured solely with my ipad…

**Update! Curious about the swag I collected? Click here to view the Facebook live video for complete details.**

Favorite Moment

If you seek guidance on exploring the Charleston area, I am not the expert. I acknowledge it is a breathtaking location with marvelous views, but my time was spent primarily at the conference venue, the Charleston Marriott.

palm tree leaves against a blue sky

It was truly lovely.

The air conditioning was available!

outdoor pool at the Charleston Marriot Hotel

The heat was quite humid, so this sea breeze enthusiast found the oppressive warmth difficult to endure. Our time was also filled with various courses and events, and the hotel offered everything I needed, including fine coffee and a charming little eatery.

Nevertheless, I visited downtown Charleston for two evening meals, allowing me to observe the city's stunning historical architecture; it was truly magnificent.

buildings in downtown Charleston, SC

Truly Wonderful Roommates

When I decided to stay at Haven in January, a key wish of mine was to share a room with a roommate, based on two reasons:

I hoped to establish a new friendship.
I aimed to reduce the room expenses.

Divine grace fulfilled my wish abundantly; not only did He provide one wonderful roommate, but He gave me three!

picture of 4 women in front of greenery

Marissa, Julie, Sonya, and I

I connected with Julie via a Facebook post, and then with Sonya and Marissa through Julie. Before the conference, we created a Facebook group and exchanged messages weekly (and sometimes daily!). I felt as if I knew these ladies even before meeting them.

Meeting in person was the perfect addition; we had so much enjoyment! They have become cherished friends and are the greatest supporters on my blogging journey; I no longer feel isolated.

Most Beneficial Workshop Attended

Selecting a favorite is challenging since I genuinely enjoyed all the sessions I attended, such as:

Managing Your Blog Business,
SEO, and
Tips for Excellent Video

However, the session on How to Capture Gorgeous Interior Photos with your DSLR, led by Rachel from Maison de Pax, proved the most engaging with its practical insights.

Her photography is breathtakingly beautiful, and I adored her instructional approach; I eagerly anticipate applying what I learned from her.

Most Uplifting Narrative

The moment that deeply moved my spirit occurred in a completely unexpected setting—a make and take craft class!

3 women smiling

Amy Howard’s journey of faith and business was a true blessing to my heart, and it continues to occupy my thoughts…

Author with Amy Howard

Most Unforgettable Experiences

Without a doubt, the individuals I encountered were the most memorable aspects of the conference.

7 women sitting at an outdoor table with red checked tablecloth

Photo Credit: Haven

It was a true pleasure connecting in person with creators whose blogs I have admired for numerous years.

collage of people with the author

Vintage Revivals, Thistlewood Farms, and The Handmade Home

Discovering these individuals was wonderful; they are not only talented online but also wonderfully kind and welcoming in person.

The discussions remain vivid in my thoughts: Yvonne's counsel from Stone Gable, the lovely dinner talk with my mentor Jenny Melrose, shared laughter with my roommates late at night, and the generosity shown by the brand ambassadors. I connected with many bloggers at various points in their journey, and I eagerly anticipate staying in touch with these new friends!

Most Memorable Advice

6 women smiling

During the initial evening of the conference, Yvonne from Stone Gable (I am pictured seated on her lap above) offered guidance to newcomers,

she stated,

“Ladies, you will feel overwhelmed, like trying to drink from a fire hose at this conference. Simply open your mouths and keep absorbing…”

“…and even when you feel exhausted, continue to absorb!”

What exceptionally insightful words those were…

I attended, I absorbed, and I returned home brimming with enthusiasm for future opportunities and plans.

For More Details

Several friends I met at the conference have shared summaries of their time at Haven. To learn more about this event, consider reading their posts (and I appear in some of their photos too!;))