Blogger's Guide in Attending Blogapalooza

It's that time of the year again when bloggers and businesses connect and begins a fruitful relationship with one another. It's a memorable event for most bloggers because this is where they take their blogs in a whole new level and find new friends: #BloggerSquad. Hehe. It's time for another Blogapalooza Moment! Here's are a few reminders for those attending this event: Things to Remember
1) Make sure you are registered
Do not just show up at the event and claim that you're a blogger. Make sure you have registered first! I believe you can still register through this link: REGISTER HERE. Use the password “blogafam” to register!
2) Know where the event will be held
It is very important that you know the location of the venue so you won't get lost and so you can plan ahead. You will have an idea of the traffic and traveling time. This way, you will know when to leave home or which public transport would best help you get there on time.
3) Prepare the must-bring
I have listed the things you should prepare and bring with you to the event. These suggestions are based on my last year's Blogapalooza observation.
4) Wear comfortable clothing
Look good on the event but don't sacrifice the comfort. You need to be comfortable as you'd be walking around checking each booth, and joining activities or games. You can set aside those heels for a day and wear your sneakers.
5) Make sure that the links and accounts are correct
Check your blog URL and your social media account links. Make sure that you it's correct and that you have a copy with you to the event. Some companies require you to sign up to get their press kits and other freebies. It's very important that the information you will give them are accurate and working.
6) Come early at the event
Coming early has many perks. You have a lot of time to visit the booths, interact with other bloggers and listen to the talks of the guest speakers. Some of the celebrity endorsers of the brands or speakers come early too. Don't miss the opportunity!
7) Don't be afraid to say hello
When you're at the event already, don't be afraid to say hello to other bloggers especially the Blogapalooza team members. Saying hello starts the conversation and who knows, that conversation might lead to great and endless opportunities for you!
8) Building partnership over freebies
I know that we're all excited to receive freebies from the participating brands but remember that this event was not made for just free stuff, it's being held for you to learn and build your network. Be reminded that if the brand or company sees your potential, they might give you more than just free stuff. So focus on your capabilities and be sure to communicate it with them. Work and earn that credibility. If they find you fit for the brand, you'll be surprised at how promotional items will arrive at your doorsteps from time to time.
9) Don't be afraid to ask questions
This is one of the things I wish I did in last year's event. I was too afraid to ask questions about the brands so I ended up just knowing a few. It's important that you have confidence and interest to know the participating brands because without those two, then why the heck are you at the event? You're wasting everything.
If you're not familiar with the brand, ask them to tell you a little more about them and from there, continue asking questions until you understand what their brand is about and analyze if you can relate to them.
10) Have fun but be professional
Blogapalooza will be fun but be reminded that you're in a business to blogger event. Be yourself but don't be too crazy. You wouldn't want to scare the brands, right?
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Things to Prepare
When I attended the event last year, I did not bring most of this. How I wished I found a post of a previous participant that tells me to bring these things so I could have prepared well for the event. Now, I'll be that previous participant to help you. Here are some of the things you should at least have at to the event:
1) Business Cards

Bringing business cards make you look professional. You can have it printed by printing companies or do it yourself at home. I did my own card this year because I lack budget to have a more professional business card. You will give this card to the companies you're interested to be a part of. They will include you in their media list. You will be contacted directly for promotions and other collaborations.
Bringing a business card is not really mandatory since companies also provide spreadsheets where you can leave your details in. Giving a business card instead of writing down your information allows you to move from one booth to another faster; really saves time! :)
2) Media Kit

This is actually not required nor expected but I created one anyway. A media kit contains the basic information of your blog. I decided to create one so when I pass it to the brands, they can easily review my information on the spot. Less hassle for them in cross checking.
3) Camera and Smartphones
You need to have at least both. You need cameras to cover the event while you need your smartphone to join the social campaigns during the event. If you only have a smartphone, then that' fine. You can use that to take photos too but be sure you have number 4.
4) Powerbank
For sure, there wouldn't be an area for you to charge those smartphones. You need to always keep your gadgets charged and bringing powerbanks would really help you throughout the event. If you only have one, you might want to borrow another one from a family member or a friend unless your single powerbank has high MAH.
5) Pocket Wifi
Based on my experience from the last Blogapalooza, there are social campaigns held by brands before you can get their press kits. Some even requires you to like or follow their social media accounts before you can join their activities. Though the venue might offer wifi access, it's always best to be ready. Have your own wifi access to save you from time and be ahead of the others. ;)
6) Pen and notebook
Always bring pen and paper, preferably a notebook, just so you have something to write on when you need to. I usually bring my notebook to get the details of the bloggers I meet. It is where I also jot down notes from the talks held and the information given to me when I visit the brand's booths.
7) Extra bag or eco bag
Companies will be giving you freebies, press kits and even a company profile. Some of them won't provide eco bags. Just be prepared and bring extra to help you collect these things from them.
8) Snacks & Drinks
Based on my experience last year, though there was food available from a sponsor, the queue was long! To save yourself time (again) and from hunger, better bring your own snack and drink.
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I hope these information somewhat gave you an idea on what to expect and how to prepare for the upcoming Blogapalooza event. Do not forget to invite your blogger friends to sign-up and share this post to remind other participants. See you there!
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