Okay, I literally need to be out the door in two hours to leave for Type-A Mom, but I just had to take a minute to write this post. I've been reading a lot of bloggers' posts and tweets about the conference, and so many are feeling nervous. Especially conference newbies. While I'm not the most experienced, I have learned some things from attending conferences and events. Here are some things I'd like to share.

Don't Get in Your Own Way

I'm speaking from experience here. Don't let yourself get so nervous or worried about not knowing anyone that you end up a nervous wreck. This defeats the whole purpose of attending a conference. Just breathe, think about what you hope to get from this experience, then head over to a group of people who look interesting and introduce yourself. I know it's a tough proposition, especially if you're shy. But I can vouch for the fact that others are feeling the exact same way, despite how things look on the outside. I've felt it, and I've read about it on countless blogs - sometimes from the people you'd least expect to be worried or self-conscious.

It Doesn't Matter What You Wear

Seriously. It doesn't. Especially at this conference. I know for a fact that Kelby Carr herself would tell you the exact same thing. Don't get me wrong. I got new clothes for the conference, and I'm looking forward to wearing them. Honestly, how often do I get the chance to go out with grown ups and have some fun? Usually, I'm sitting here at my desk. All. Day. Long. So I'm looking forward to accessorizing and breaking in some new outfits. But you want to be comfortable at a conference - both physically and with regard to self-confidence. Choose clothes that are second-nature for you. Things that make you feel good. And wear comfortable shoes. No matter what you wear, there's sure to be someone more dressed up or more casual around you. And, honestly, I don't think anyone cares. I took great care to get the cutest ballet flats for the last conference I attended, and guess how many compliments I got? Yeah, that's right. But I felt good in them!

Put Yourself Out There

Convince yourself to do as much as you can during the conference. Again, how often do we moms get a chance to experience something like this? A chance to socialize, to learn, to network. Grab it with both hands and don't let go. That's not to say you should wear yourself out trying to do absolutely everything. No way. Do the things that look most interesting to you. Approach the bloggers and brand representatives that you're dying to meet. Attend the workshops you know you'd benefit most from. Let yourself take a rest, all by yourself in your hotel room, when you need it. Hide in the bathroom if you're feeling overwhelmed, but get back out there and get what you need from being at this conference. You don't want to go home with regrets, kicking yourself for not getting enough out of the experience.

There you have it. My impromptu words of advice for attending the Type-A Mom Conference. Now I just need to remember them, myself. Be sure you grab me if you see me hiding in the bathroom, okay? See ya soon!