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Sunday
Aug092009

Convention 2009 Is Over

Convention has come and gone for another year. Woo hoo. . . . I think.

The end of convention is always bittersweet. I compare it to Thanksgiving dinner—you work so hard for so long to make sure everyone loves it, and it’s over before you can believe it!

I loved this convention, and I talked to many demonstrators who said it was one of—if not the—best yet. When I asked why, they gave several reasons: the focus on workshops was exactly what they needed, the keynote speaker was great, the class offerings were perfect, the list goes on and on.

I only heard one negative comment—the line for Memento Mall was long on the first day. I hate that, but we’ve thought of all sorts of things to try to fix that, and haven’t come up with a fix yet. It’s because everything in the mall is so fabulous! I don’t normally wear sweatshirt-type things, but I’ve already worn my hoodie twice!

Several things made my convention highlight list: Belinda Ellsworth, our keynote speaker (she offered valuable information for every demonstrator, at every level); my stamping presentation, which focused on gift giving (we created more projects than I could show, so you’ll be the beneficiary of that because I’ll be posting several projects here in the coming weeks); the dinner with the Artisan Award winners (loved getting to know them better!); the general sessions and classes (I know it sounds like cheating to clump them all together, but honestly they were all fabulous! I didn’t get to attend all the classes, but those I made it to were really great!); and sitting in the audience during the last session (loved the game show and commercials!).

My daughters and I all laughed during the game show when one of the questions they asked was “What is the first thing you do when you get home from convention?” Our unanimous answer was sleep, but it was the last answer on the list from the demonstrators! The number-one answer was unpack, which I always put off as long as I possibly can!

I did unpack today (earlier than usual) because I’m heading up to the hospital to spend a few days with Leslie. I’m looking forward to telling her all about convention and catching up on some sleep. She has to get sleep, of course, and because we sleep in the same room, I go to bed earlier than I normally would! I’m also bringing along some quiet work stuff to do—catching up on e-mail and reading my blog (haven’t read your comments for more than a week!). I know we’ll do plenty of visiting too!

I must admit that spending a few quiet days with Leslie is a wonderful way to unwind after convention, but I’m so thankful for the past few days and the wonderful opportunity I got to spend time with some of my favorite people in the world!

 

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Reader Comments (66)

Oh, I wish I had been able to go to convention, it sounds great! Maybe next year! Enjoy a little rest and catching up with your sister. I hope she and her family are doing well, take care!
August 9, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterElissa Gilbert
Shelli:

This was my very first convention and I was very impressed with the way you and the Stampin Up! family conducted the event. I look forward to attending the event in the future.

All of the information I received was very informational and will not only help me with my business but can also help in everyday life.

Thanks once again for making my first convention experience a memorable and enjoyable experience!
August 9, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterJill Swain
I did not get to attend convention this year but heard all about it on-line and via twitter :)

I do think it would be helpful if you could explain the timing of the convetion - why is it in Aug (or whenever it will be) what goes into the decision making. I know there are many demos and moms who cannot attend an Aug convention due to school starting in August ...i think it might be nice to hear what all is considered when making the decision.

i can't wait to see you projects!!!
August 9, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterShelly
Have a well deserved rest Shelli, conventions are fantastic. I went to my first this year in Canberra and I am so looking forward to next years in Sydney. It was fantastic to meet you and all the other staff from the US and here in Oz. See you next year.
August 9, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterMarlene
Hi Shelli, me again. I too said Sleep and was surprised that it wasn't number one. I have to unpack so I can get to my make and takes and swap cards. I have to finish some of the make and takes. I would have to agree about the LONG line for memento mall and wish I could have gotten another bear, but they went fast. Belinda was great and so funny and had great ideas.
Candy Diaz
August 9, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterCandy Diaz
Thank You Shelli for a wonderful week!! I know it is a lot of planning and work but you and your fabulous team always pull off a stellar week for all of us!!

My group agreed, SLEEP should have been #1 on the game show results!! :)

Our prayers are with Leslie - I hope your visit provides some much needed rest for you too!
hugs,
Patty
August 9, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterPatty Bennett
Shelli:
This was my 2nd Convention and I loved it. I am in the process of moving, so will be re-building my business. Looking forward to utilizing all the information on workshops to do that. One other thing that I really enjoyed about Convention was the entertainment at Awards Night. Tonic Sol-Fa is fabulous! Thank you for all of your hard work, and that of all the SU staff, to make Convention such a memorable event.
Sharon
August 9, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterSharon McCartney
I have been to several conventions and have to agree that for this was the best.Everyone's attitudes were so genuine and strong-not defensive or offensive-just strongly calm and gracious. I liked the classes because Kimberly, Lisa, and Missy didn't push ideas and'tell' you what to do. They offered their stories and advice in such an ispiring and humble way it made me want to really listen. This was also my favorite year with Carrie Cudney-loved her!All of their 'talks' were fun, interesting, and full of great ideas I plan on using. Your demonstration was my favorite! Loved the charms and fabric flowers-I am a quilter! Of course, the demo of My Digital Studio was awesome as I am a scrapbooker and think you hit the market at exactly the right time! I had to leave early due to a family emergency friday but it was still the best convention!
All my hobbies linked together in some way..quilter, scrapbooker, stamper.
I especially liked that you offered prayer before the meals...which is my first and most important passion then my family and then my hobbies. THANK YOU!!!!!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterTheresa
Sounds like convention was great! I wish I could have been there but with the start up of school and having to be there for my five year olds I could not which makes me very sad.:-( Since you always do this at the beginning of August my time to come to attend will not ever happen. So sad! :-(

Have some down time now and spend it with Leslie should be good for your spirit and hers.

Thanks for all you do at Stampin Up!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterKriss
I LOVED convention this year! And I can't wait to see what other awesome gift ideas you and your girls came up with that you didn't get to show! There is never enough stamping for me at convention. The classes are great, don't get me wrong, but it is the live stamping demos that I truely love the most! I can't wait to see you again next year in Salt Lake!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterMary Hodgman
I had a great time at Convention as did my downlines that attended, we worked on our plans for upcoming workshops, our power hours, and reset some goals on the plane home. On of my favorite sessions was Dr. Brian Pilling session, it was informative and fun. Both his and Belinda Ellsworth's were great and things I learned will help me with my Stampin' business, but also in full time "non stampin' "job. Thank you for a great time, I met some great folks in that line at momento mall!!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterMarion Swaim
Shelli
Loved convention this year!! I was in line at Memento Mall 4 hours but, it was well worth it! Classes as usual were filled with great ideas to help workshops. Belinda was a riot and right on with what she had to share.
Jo
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterJo Bengtsen
Hi Shelli!
This was my first convention and I am so sad it's over! I just listened to the theme song soundtrack and I have a lump in my throat! I'm so excited to utilize everything I learned this past week! I was a bit bummed that I didn't get a chance to talk to you, although I was happy to chat and get a picture with Sterling since he was the "end of the line". :) I have to say how impressed I was with his dedication to you! I can't believe he was there by your side the whole time! What a wonderful husband! Thanks to you and the entire SU family for putting on such a wonderfully inspiring event! Enjoy your downtime while spending time with Leslie. Let her know that she's in my prayers. Hugs!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterBrenda Bromen
Shelli,
Convention was fabulous. I was thinking of Leslie and am glad you are going to spend a few days with her. I am praying for her xxx
Sincerly,
Maxine
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterMaxine Conrad
Shelli

Oh My Convention was Superb!!!!!!!!!!! this was my 4th convention and I am already looking forward to next years Convention, (Have already started saving lol) Made hotel reservations already before I even left the hotel. Loved Tonic Sol fa for the second year in a row can we have them next year toooooooo.

Oh my, so I bought my downline and another demonstrator friend brought her downline and they absolutely loved it. All are planning to return next year.

Loved the clasess but I have to say I LOVE STAMPING and would love to see MORE STAMPING.

Belinda, BRian, Lisa etc were great. I LOVE STAMPIN UP the company and you are GREAT

Danielle Dees
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterDanielle Dees
Hi Shelli,Thanks for another wonderful convention, it was very good to return home to my family and SLEEP!!

Will keep Leslie in our prayers! Have a good visit!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterSharon Field
Shelli, Please, please, please make the cute hoodies available to all of us who weren't able to make convention this year. I know it involves ordering more, but this is probably the cutest clothing item SU has come out with in a long time! It was hard not attending convention this year, but I just couldn't swing it with my daughter's high school schedule. Next year she'll be driving, so I should be able to go!
Looking forward to getting that hoodie! :-)
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterJane McGill
Hi Shelli! Sadly I did not get to attend convention either! I would love for you to make the great Memento Hall items available to the demos who could not attend. I can't wait to see the projects you will be posting!

Leslie and her family are in my prayers!

Ellie
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterEllen Sutton
I too had a wonderful convention. I loved the projects!

The only complaint I have is "Shelli, please do something about the line to momento mall. I waited 4 1/2 hours in line the first day. I was exhausted and my feet were paying for it the entire convention. I am in my 40's and it was hard on me. Please keep in mind there are alot of elderly and handicapped demos out there and I am sure waiting that long in line was not good for their bodies...I know it wasn't for mine."

This was my third convention and other than the line...I had so much fun. This was the first convention that I won a prize...it was so exciting.

Thanks.
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterDana
Thank you so much for another fantastic convention. This was my 9th out of 11 years as a SU demo and it just gets better every year. After missing 2 conventions, I vowed I would never miss another one. I felt so left out and I know it's just what I need to get a swift kick in the rear to get the business going again.

One suggestion for the Memento Mall situation: Maybe demos could pre-order their items before convention and have them shipped on a supply order. Of course, we would always want to order even more goodies after we see them in real life, but could then order those items at convention. Maybe, just maybe, this could cut down on the long lines.

Thanks again for all your hard work. It is wonderful to see everyone roll up their sleeves to get the job done.

Now WHEN can we get our grubby hands on that wonderful new My Digital Studio??? OMG! I can't wait any longer!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterLaurie
I'll be thinking of you and Leslie and praying for rest and peace.
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterSarah Green
Shelli:
(& SU)
Thanks for another FABULOUS convention. Even though I had to leave early to be home for my DD's 6th Birthday the 90% of convention experience I was there for was FAN & FUN TASTIC!!!

I didn't ever think that saying goodbye to my friends from SU would be so hard, I cried like a baby when I hugged everyone to leave..

Bitter sweet it was to end, there's always NEXT year and SU convention has just found its way into my yearly "ME" time because for all the work we mom's, daughters, friends do all year round this time at Convention simply puts the charge back into our lives, all that I experienced in SLC is easily transferred to my personal and professional life, especially as a HOBBY DEMO!!

Hugs to your sister, she's in our thoughts and prayers

Dina - from Toronto!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterDina
P.S.
Meeting my NEW RECRUIT tomorrow for lunch to sign the paper work and help her pick out her stamp set(s) and then I'll work on a few more just for to make sure that the MDS will be FREE for those of us who attended!!!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterDina
Hi Shelli,
Thank you for another wonderful convention experience. So much to be excited about!
This year I had decided that I would actually stand in the receiving line to say "hi". (After the comments you made in Hawaii at the general session about wanting to meet and talk with everyone, I leaned over to my husband and said, "I think she really means it!") So, this year I brought you a gift. I read on your blog that you love tea so I brought you a collection of loose leaf teas from Teavana. (My beautiful daughter Sarah is the general manager of the Teavana store in Oklahoma City - so I have connections. lol) 1st day - forgot the gift in my hotel room. 2nd day - went to get in line after lunching with DL only to have the barrier pulled in front of me. 3rd day - came right from morning session (had to stop by little girl's room), skipped lunch, only to have the barrier pulled right in front of me again. Well, as much as I would have loved to have a picture with you and the tea (for my Sarah), my main goal was to get the gift to you. So I gave it to Sterling - with instructions.:) Knowing that I sometimes don't get all the information from my own sweet husband, I thought it might be helpful if I gave you the heads up. The amount and steeping time for an 8oz. cup of tea are on the bottom of each can. Enjoy! Thanks for all that you do for us!!! Looking forward to a great year!
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterJann McCollom
Shelli, Convention was as inspiring as ever and is always a wonderful way to give me a boost that I need to continue building a business that I am proud of. This was my 3rd convention and each one has helped me build success not only in my business but as a mom grandmother friend and wife.

I think that 4 hour line helped me build a lot of patience too but I was not happy when the bear was announced and I would have to stand again in yet another line. I did just that and only discovered after I had hopped our plane and sat down in my seat to breathe a sigh of relief and hug that darling bear that it did not have the cute embroidered foot that was shown on stage! Oh whoa is me! I have called demonstrator support this morning and Chelsea answered with a sweet and caring voice and said she would get back to me this afternoon.

I had the chance to tour Riverton and the Stampin Up headquarters and loved every minute of it. My upline Barb had rented a car so She and I and our two convention virgins Michelle and my roomate Dottie could see where it all happens. We had the most fabulous time together attending classes and dining and sharing our stories. We have made bonds that over the years of time will never be broken.

I also enjoyed speaking Jason and Sage and Sterling. I am always happy to meet the families of our Stampin' UP! family. Together everyone does achieve more. So happy to be a part of this fabulous TEAM! I look forward to seeing you at Leadership this year as I have met and surpassed my last years goal of SR Supervisor and just steps away from a Manager title.

Thanks for all you do to make it happen.

Debi Pippin
Inverness Florida
http://bizestampin.blogspot.com
August 10, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterDebi Pippin

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