Last weekend I got back from a super fun trip to the TeachersPayTeachers (TPT) Conference in Las Vegas. I had never been to Vegas before and I decided to head out there to network and learn more about #TPTVegas15.
That’s me!
In case you aren’t familiar with what TeachersPayTeachers.com is, I’ll fill you in. It’s a website where teachers can purchase teacher-created materials from other teachers. Not only do I love the site, I am also a seller. Check out my store: Speech is Beautiful.
When I first found out about TPT, frankly I found it strange. Why would teachers or any school-based speech paths want to sell or buy? Well, I soon realized that classroom-based professionals know the most about what kids need. So back in 2013 I created a store, but I didn’t do that much with it for awhile.
Part of the Venetian Hotel
But in 2015, I’ve really stepped up my game and started creating all the products I wished I had. As a bilingual speech path, it’s *so hard* for me to find quality products to use in speech therapy, and what I had I’d used so much that my students were bored. Once I got the “TPT bug,” I just couldn’t stop! I knew the conference would help me network with other sellers, but also learn new tips and tricks that make making my visions come to life.
“Paris” in Vegas — and can you spot the rainbow?
I’d never been to Vegas before and it was awesome. I’m not a gambler or a drinker so I assumed there would be nothing for me. But I think it’s like Disneyworld for adults. It’s just fun there.
Getting ready for a conference and staying organized can be stressful. It seems silly to think about “what you are going to wear,” but it’s really important to plan ahead. Vegas is hot outside, but it’s chilly inside buildings.
Skinny khakis for the plane, comfy black pants for the first day, white jean jacket that was great on the plane as well as kept me warm during the conference!
I’ve changed my focus from just trying to “get by” with a wardrobe from the sale rack to casual and formal basics from my favorite stores. My favorite store is J.Jill. Here are my top five tips:
- Wear comfortable clothes
- Carry a jacket
- Bring a notebook and a pen
- Keep business cards at the ready
- Relax and have fun meeting new people!
I developed a product to help me get myself organized for the TPT conference. It’s My Conference Planner. Check it out on TPT:
How do you stay on top of things when you go to conferences?