Reflections on the IFBC

Oh, what a wonderful weekend it was! My brain is still not firing at its normal level, and I'm so tired even my hair hurts, but I have enough basic function left in me to squeeze out a quick post. That's how much I love you all.

First, I want to thank Sur la Table for putting together such an amazing goody bag, as well as a not-insignificant list of raffle items. Even us Foodista folks were shocked at the final list - they kept us in the dark until the final reveal! I know I personally will be writing more about what delicious things were in the bag, but the blogs have already begun...

I also want to thank Andrews McMeel Publishing for bringing us the fabulous Renee Behnke and providing our attendees with her new book Memorable Recipes. It is truly a beautiful book and you all were beyond terrific!

A big thanks as well to all of our chefs and food and beverage partners. They all provided mind blowing delicious foods, drinks, chocolates, pastries - ahhhh, I'm still reeling with delight....

Our goal for the conference was to bring people together who have a passion for food. To network, to finally meet face-to-face, to discuss hot topics, to talk about how things are changing in new media and food blogging in particular, and to build a strong food blogging community.  I was surprised to hear so many say they had never met other food bloggers off-line. We want to change that. Mommy bloggers have got it going on when it comes to their community building efforts, so can we! And I think we definitely took a step in the right direction! Let's stay connected. Let's help one another and learn from each other.

Unfortunately I didn't get to meet everyone there, but I was so impressed with caliber of people who attended. I hope to see you all again soon and hope to connect with all online. More to come, but for now please enjoy some of the great shots captured this weekend (thanks to Karlyn Oyama):