Conference season is here, and if you’ve been to more than one, you know it’s equal parts exciting, exhausting, and unforgettable.

Sure — you’ll hear the usual tips: hydrate, pack business cards, bring a portable charger. Don’t worry, I’ll drop the basics at the end for anyone who wants the checklist.

But today? I want to share the fun, practical, hard-earned tips that only come from years of running through resorts in the wrong shoes, stuffing swag into already-full carry-ons, and realizing (too late) that conference photographers are everywhere.

So, here are my top hacks to help you survive and thrive at your next event.

💇‍♀️ 1. Book a Blowout (Yes, Even You, Guys)

One DryBar appointment before the week starts = zero hair stress every morning. I promise it’s worth it. For women, it’s one less thing to think about. For guys? If you’re into it, trust me, it’s a power move.

👟 2. Shoes Matter (Learned the Hard Way)

At one Broker-Owner Conference, I thought I was being stylish with leather shoes. The problem? My hotel room was at the farthest end of the resort. Pretty sure I walked a mile before I even hit the conference hall (pun intended).

By Day 2, I gave up, marched into the gift shop, and bought my first pair of Olukai shoes. Not only did they save me — I still wear them. Conference hack: pick comfort over cute but you can still get some super cute comfortable shoes. 

📋 3. Scope Out the Vendors Early

Conferences aren’t just about sessions and networking — the vendor hall can be the most valuable part if you treat it strategically. Instead of just grabbing swag, ask yourself:

• What process do I want automated by next year?
• Where’s the gap in my tech stack?
• Who’s the next role I need to hire?

One hour in the vendor hall can shift the entire trajectory of your business.

🎯 4. Pick a Mantra

Conferences are noisy, packed, and overwhelming. Having a mantra grounds you.

Mine right now? Creating a life where I can chase the sunshine and be present for my family.

Your mantra doesn’t have to be fancy. Just something that helps you filter opportunities and conversations through your bigger “why.”

📱 5. The Business Card Hack

People lose business cards. It’s inevitable. But here’s how to stay memorable: print a QR code that links directly to your LinkedIn or Calendly, and stick it on the back of your card.

Now you’re the one people will remember — and connect with instantly.

🤝 6. The Buddy System

If you’re attending with a colleague or friend, don’t sit in every session together. Divide and conquer. Swap notes over lunch. You’ll double your ROI without doubling your exhaustion.

✨ 7. Wear a Signature Item

At every conference, you’ll meet hundreds of people. Want to stand out? Wear one memorable thing — a pink blazer, funky notebook, or branded water bottle. Later, people will say: “Oh, you’re the one with the…” Trust me, it works.

📷 8. Don’t Dodge the Photographer

Most conferences have a professional photographer wandering the halls. Don’t hide — lean in.

Why? Because those photos end up in the event album. Free, professional-quality pictures of you in action, ready to post on LinkedIn.

📝 9. Make Follow-Up Easy

Right after meeting someone, jot a quick note in your phone or (better yet) take a selfie with them. When you follow up, reference that moment. It makes the connection feel 10x warmer.

🧘‍♀️ 10. Schedule a Conference Detox

This one might be the most important: block 1–2 hours the day after the conference. Ideally if you can block the entire day, your brain will thank you. 

Use that time to organize your notes, write down action steps, and prioritize what you’ll implement first. If you wait until you’re “less busy,” it won’t happen.

The Basics (Because They Still Matter)

I promised I wouldn’t make this list about the obvious stuff — but in case you need the refresher:

• Pack snacks (lines are long).
• Bring extra chargers.
• Take photos of slides (but write down YOUR action step immediately).
• Schedule downtime — hallway conversations are often more valuable than sessions.
  
  

Final Thought

Conferences are about more than just filling notebooks with ideas. They’re about making connections, clarifying where you’re headed, and (sometimes) getting a reminder of why you’re in this business in the first place.

So pack your comfy shoes, set your mantra, and don’t be afraid to lean into the camera when it finds you.

🌟 What’s your best conference hack? Drop it in the comments — I’d love to add it to my list.