I promised that I would share, didn't I? Now, to say I had fun at Alt Summit NYC would be an understatement, and while I can't share everything (I didn't write it all down), I can tell you that the panels were simply great. If you ever get the chance to go to an Alt event or take one of their online classes, I do highly recommend it.
One of the highlights was hearing directly from three Martha Stewart Living editors (Lucinda Scala Quinn, Pilar Guzman and Kevin Sharkey). They offered up a wonderful insider perspective on their legendary publication, and even a sneak peek of the next issue! They spoke about learning your craft, how the learning process is never done, and emphasized the importance of leveraging your personal skill set to tell meaningful stories with content. Kevin was quick to reference a MSL motto (also inscribed in the hallway): "Change is good. When you're through changing, you're through." So perfect, and reminded me of this post (again). To do good work, you have to learn how to do good work. Go figure! ;)
Some photos and other favorites (including my popular Kate Spade pumps!) from throughout the day:
I also enjoyed hearing from some fellow bloggers (Jenny, Natalie and my dear friend Katie) about their adventures and personal approaches to the online environment. When they weren't being interrupted by Martha herself (hello, amazing!!), they talked about setting goals, and creating schedules. I especially liked Jenny's tip about only sitting down to check email once a day - I'd probably handle it better that way.
Another great talk came from one of my all-time blogging heroines: Tina Roth Eisenberg of Swiss Miss (also Creative Mornings, Teux Deux and Tattly). Hers was one of the first blogs I ever came across... and I mean ever. I was working my post-undergrad desk job in Charlottesville when my eyes first locked with her homepage, and suffice it to say it was her enthusiasm for sharing design knowledge as well as the work of others that got me interested in blogging (and design) in the first place.
Tina's Alt talk focused on "the importance of side projects", and like the MSL editors, she spoke passionately about the importance of learning, industry networking, and collaboration. Overall, the presentation was structured on eight key steps for living a creative life. I just loved them and wanted to keep them close, so I created a silly infographic (which you can download as a .pdf). Enjoy!
"Check out" links: Dan Gilbert's TED Talk on the science of happiness / Paul Graham's "How to Do What You Love"
| Shoes: Kate Spade New York Scene low pumps $298 |
See more photos on my Instagram feed (@notetosarah!) Until next time, Alt NYC!
