I'M GOING BACK TO THE WHITE HOUSE. WANNA COME WITH ME??

I didn't wear out my welcome the 1st time obviously upon being invited to the White House before and as a result, I was exclusively invited back to tomorrow's White House 12th Worldwide Instameet. As part of the first family's efforts to reinforce that the White House is the "people's house", yours and mine and further engage via social media, I will be touring the White House along with other exclusive influential invitees and meeting with Chief Official White House Photographer, Pete Souza.

THE #HOTMOMMAHAUTE EXPERIENCE IS COMING TO YOU DC AND I'M THERE! WILL YOU BE?

Grab your girlfriends and join myself along with other "hot mommas" for #HotMommaHaute, a wonderful experience just for you, fashion lovers, fashionistas and style and beauty connoisseurs in the Washington, DC metropolitan area!

I am a featured panelist alongside:

DO YOU KNOW HOW TO MINGLE? 9 TIPS TO GET THE MOST OUT OF EVENTS ...

For those of us who work in the social media landscape, we are always attending sumpin. But much too often, I see folks not taking full advantage of events and the visibility events lend (blame it on the social media strategist in me). But seriously, events can be a platform for you and one that you should maximize to the fullest in consideration of your own branding efforts. 
You are making the effort to attend so you should get a return, right? Right?

I can't wait until Saturday. Why? I have the privilege of hosting this Saturday's Nappy Hour presented by my own Stylist, Salih Watts and his staff at Loc Lov Styles. Click here for the full details from yesterday's post. This exclusive event targets Bloggers, Vloggers and Social Media Mavens. It will be an intimate affair featuring everything from live styling demos to give-a-ways and a lip and lash bar. But with all those features, having a good time and ensuring a return relies more on you then you might realize.  

Here are 9 tips to guarantee a return while getting your "mingle" on.

1. Bring more than enough business cards - Events are a platform for you to network so how can you get down to bizness with no cards??? I see it often. And if stuck on how to segue to passing a card to someone. Mingle up to someone and just say, "Nice to meet you, may I give you my card?"

2. Shake hands - When mingling, this makes an impression and leaves an impression. If the person doesn't extend their hand first, extend yours.

3. Smile - The best way to ensure that you are unapproachable, is to walk around an event mean mugging like you don't wanna be there. That's not mingling. And even if you don't wanna be there, fake it till it's over. But a smile goes a LOOOONG way. You are likely not the only one uncomfy. Some find it hard to be outgoing and sociable. But a smile is the best ice-breaker. Note: This applies if you're single too :-)

4. Make eye contact - Look at people directly as you are mingling and when you are talking to them. This shows genuine interest and again will make and leave a lasting impression.

5. Take pics - Oftentimes event pics are shared on multiple platforms so as you mingle take pics even if just of the layout and the aesthetics, take selfies, photobomb if you have to. And post them. Don't go home with umpteen pictures that you never post. Posting those pics lends visibility to the event and you too. And it will show your followers that you know how to get your mingle on.

6. Engage - It's one thing to be in attendance but another to be present. Walk around aka, mingle, smile, say hello, ask questions. If live tweeting and posting, use hashtags to draw attention to your presence at the event and solicit engagement. Ask for people's handles and tag them in pics. They are more inclined to follow you back.

7. Mingle - Attending events can be uncomfy for some especially if attending alone. But you'd be surprised that one of the best ways to get into the mix, is to "mingle." Mingle is defined; to move freely around a place or at a social function, associating with others. Don't just sit all by your lonesome. Challenge yourself to walk around and before you know it, you will strike up a conversation and make a new friend.

8. Don't just leave - I see this all the time. Upon conclusion of the event and once you've gotten your mingle on, don't just duck out. Circle back around and say bye to anyone you might've met for the first time. They are more likely to remember you. Thank whomever was behind the event and provide them feedback. What did you like about the event, etc. And this can be done even if you have to leave early. People will love and notice that you made the effort to both mingle and say bye.

9. Follow-up - The most critical. No more than a day or two later, follow-up with those you met and mingled with, connect with them via social media, follow them and email them. This is the most effective way to ensure you stay on their radar and who knows what opportunities that may facilitate.
Do you have any mingling tips of your own to ensure you get the most out of events?
and
I hope to see you Saturday. If you haven't already RSVP'ed to Saturday's Nappy Hour, click here for the event link.

--

Follow me on IG/Twitter and Vine @bagladies.

--

Subscribe to the dish. Get on Bag Ladies exclusive list. 

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

"MY MIC SOUNDS NICE" AT 1ST ANNUAL #BLOGGERWEEK

Caught in the moment and lending a voice to a panel which included myself, Jonna Scott-Blakes of Naturally-Glam.com and Yolanda Renee of etcblogmag.com, to "The BIG Business of Beauty Blogging." After a week of engaging activities which included a Google Glass preview, Tele-conference and Google Hangout, the first annual Blogger Week, which was founded by Jessica Ann Mitchell and hosted by Black Bloggers Connect, ended with a BANG at Saturday's UnConference. It was a great day of panels and discussions. There was such a sense of community amongst those of us who attended. I loved both connecting with old friends and making new friends. Attendees came to Washington, DC from far and wide to descend on the Sheraton Hotel and dish on everything from how to monetize your blog to how to solicit more engagement and more. 

After-Panel Antics. Myself, Yolanda and Jonna

I had the pleasure of not only participating as a Media Partner to Blogger Week but also speaking to those in attendance and sharing what I've learned. Gimme a mic and I will run with it as is evident in the above pic snapped by Photographer, Jeff Brooks. I have many pics and tidbits to share and I will be doing so throughout the week primarily on Instagram @bagladies. If not already, follow me so you can see how much fun was had. 

And if you missed this one, mark your calendar now! Preparations for the second annual Blogger Week 2015 are already underway.

--

Follow me on IG/Twitter and Vine @bagladies.

--

Subscribe to the dish. Get on Bag Ladies exclusive list.

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

#BloggerWeek Recap: How To Make Your Blog Go Viral featuring @DerrickJaxn

Uh, how could you not want advice from this man? Even though I am a participating media partner in the 1st annual #BloggerWeek hosted by Black Bloggers Connect, I've been nonetheless impressed by the information being shared as it relates to improving content, soliciting engagement and as per last nite's Google Hangout, how to make your blog go viral. There is distinct sense of community amongst myself and other Bloggers, journalists and social media mavens attending. And although #BloggerWeek is local to DC, both Tuesday's teleconference and yesterday's Google Hangout, were attended by those both local and not local.

Yesterday's Google Hangout featured Lifestyle Blogger and Author, Derrick Jaxn. Derrick was very candid about his journey and provided great tips on how to increase followers, gain audience attention and maintain interest. I myself being a talker, I asked. And asked again. And asked again. But I mean and as I've said, how could I not? If you don't ask, be assured that I will ask. I mean I host a radio show for goodness sakes so while I can be quiet, I'm not typically shy. As per my post yesterday on Instagram (click here), how could you not want to hang out with this man? Anyway, below is a video recap of what myself, Founder of Black Bloggers Connect and #BloggerWeek, Jessica Ann Mitchell and Derrick Jaxn dished on during last nite's Google Hangout. Oh, and Derrick complimented my pic *giggle*. #BloggerWeek events and activities continue. I will be lending a voice to a panel Saturday regarding the business of beauty blogging. I can't wait! Register at www.bloggerweek.com and join me!

--

Follow me on IG/Twitter and Vine @bagladies.

--
Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

#BLOGGERWEEK™ 2014 KICKS OFF IN DC THIS WEEK!!!!

I'm a contributing Media Partner to this years Blogger Week™ 2014 which is a multicultural festival hosted by Black Bloggers Connect. Blogger/Blogging conferences are great platforms to network and whether you are just starting a blog or exploring the social media landscape or a "veteran", there is always lots to be gained from events such as this. Join myself and other Bloggers, Journalists and Social Media Mavens April 28th - May 3rd. Blogger Week™ features four days of online festivities and two days of in-person events including: Twitter parties, Google Hangouts, workshops, panels, and networking events. Register at http://BloggerWeek.com.

Blogger Week™ in-person events will be hosted in Washington, DC and surrounding areas.The Blogger Week™ Networking Mixer is May 2nd and the Blogger Week™ UnConference is May 3rd. The Blogger Week UnConference will feature hot-topic discussions and breakout sessions to promote innovation, creativity and success for bloggers and social media mavens. Follow all activity via the hashtag #BloggerWeek.

Have you ever attended a Blogger/Blogging Conference?

Follow me on IG/Twitter and Vine @bagladies.

--
Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

SPRING FORWARD WITH A SOCIAL MEDIA SIT-DOWN …WITH ME!

Do it for your brand! Do it for your business! Do it for you!

I LOVE the ever-changing scope of social media and passing on what I know. It doesn't mean that you don't know. It may just be that you don't have the time to focus on the social media element. Perhaps you just wanna focus on running the business! 

That's where I come in. 

My calendar is open once again and I'm taking appointment requests! Does any of this apply to you or someone you know (refer them)? Do you fret over social media ...when to post, what to post and where? Are you tossing ideas but faltering in execution? Do you have an event that needs some oomph (it's a word)? Spring forward with a social media sit-down with me! For a snapshot of what I do, what you get and more, click here. And might I add, please do it now while the promo lasts. I want you to get it! Not to sound cliche' but I assure you, you will be glad you did. 

I can't wait to meet you!!
-- 

Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

WELL WILL YOU? PLEASE CHECK ONE.

IF YOU CAN:

Draft/edit content

Manage social media accounts

Provide support as needed 

Must be flexible, familiar with social media tools, have Internet and be able to work remotely (you don't have to be based in DC). 

I am looking for a creative team player(s) who is organized and shows initiative. Oh, and you gotta like to have fun cause "this" is exciting. If you or someone you know is interested, please share and/or please email info@bagladiesradio.com. Subject: Intern Post

--

Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

1st Day Down: #Blogalicious5 VIP Breakfast and Registration Activities

One day down. We've barely begun. But the party has already started. The 5 year anniversary kicked off with a bang and we still have two days left. We're going strong! Check out some of the footage captured. See anyone you know?

Follow me on Twitter and Instagram. And follow the dish at #BagLadiesLIVE & #Blogalicious5. I've got some great give-a-ways on behalf of my sponsors. Don't miss out!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

We're On Our Way! #BagLadiesLIVE at #Blogalicious5

3rd times a charm! Yup, this is my third Blogalicious conference. This year is extra special because my Co-Hosts, Danielle Gray and Trina Small are in tow. Yup, I'm dragging them along with me. Did you know? Trina and I first met at Blogalicious when the conference was held in DC. And we would've never thought upon meeting that she would end up holding it down with me on Bag Ladies Radio. A testament to the power of connections facilitated by Blogalicious. This year is also special because I am participating as opposed to just attending. Bag Ladies Radio is this year's media partner!!!! Be sure to follow me on Twitter and Instagram. I will be chronicling this years Blogalicious and tweeting and posting my you know what off in addition to airing on-site shows. Follow the play-by-play at #BagLadiesLIVE & #Blogalicious5.

And thank you to our sponsors, EDEN Body Works, FabKids, Lulu*s and Flat Out of Heels,  for making this experience that much more amazing and for supporting our efforts. I'm looking forward to sharing some goodies with you on their behalf. You can still get your tix. See you in the ATL!!!

Bag Ladies Radio is the "official media partner" to this year's #Blogalicious5. For an exclusive Blogalicious 2013 ticket offer for Bag Ladies Radio followers, fans and listeners, click here and enter BLRfriend (case sensitive), for a 20% discount.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

WE'RE GETTING CLOSER BLOGALICIOUS!

We are now just 10 days away from one of the largest annual social media events. And with Blogalicious fastly approaching, we could not have said it better ourselves (press play):

We are in full prep mode as we choreograph our participation as this year's media partner. We are getting our "i spy" on, rolling out the purple carpet, bringing you a complete play by play and so much more! Oh, and my cast and I which includes @StyleNBeautyDoc and @BabyShopa (well not really; she don't have to go anywhere), are trying not to pack everything but the kitchen sink in the process. We got lots to do still but at the same time we can't wait!! How are you coming along with preparations? If you say you still have lots to do also, I will feel ALOT better. See you in October!

Bag Ladies Radio is the "official media partner" to this year's #Blogalicious5. For an exclusive Blogalicious 2013 ticket offer for Bag Ladies Radio followers, fans and listeners, click here and enter BLRfriend (case sensitive), for a 20% discount.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS TONITE'S MCDONALD'S TWITTER PARTY!

In celebration of the 10th annual McDonald's 365Black Awards, airing tonite, Sunday, 8.25 at 11p EST on BET and hosted by Taraji P. Henson, Blogalicious is hosting a pre-awards twitter party to dish about the 365Black initiative and this year's awardees. The chat begins one hour before the actual awards show tonite at 10p EST and features Kym Whitley who is the gold carpet correspondent. Kim will surely give the scoop on the awards all-star lineup which includes Yolanda Adams, Angie Stone and LeToya Luckett ...Just to name a few.
You must RSVP to be eligible for all that will be given away to Twitter participants which could be you! I'll tell you what I know about the prizes which includes 6 $50 McDonald's Arch cards. What else, you ask? RSVP, join the party and win! And then tune into the awards. Click here to RSVP.

----------------------

Follow on Twitter and Instagram @bagladies. Visit www.bagladiesradio.com for show details, OnDemand and iTunes. 

NOW I WANNA WRITE AN E-BOOK + PERFECT MY ELEVATOR PITCH. THE LATEST BLOGALICIOUS 2013 NEWS!

The call has been issued. It's back for round 2 by popular demand!! It's the Blogalicious Social Media Guide! First launched in 2010. Here's your chance to be a part of Volume II. Are you a Blogging expert or do you consider yourself such? Check! Are you adept in social media? Check! Are you always dropping words of wisdom aka "Golden Nuggets?" Check! Heed the call and become an Author in your own right. Whatcha waiting for? I'm not. Click here for submission and deadline requirements.

I had the pleasure of meeting Harriette Cole at last year's #Blogalicious12. Best-selling Author, Writer and Editor, Harriette Cole delivered the closing keynote. Well she just couldn't stay away of course. Harriette Cole is back this year with a VIP only event focusing on how to effectively communicate your brand or better put, "How to Master your Elevator Pitch." Have you ever been somewhere or with someone yet you can't find the words to say what you do in a presentable way or in a manner that sparks interest? Harriette will tell you how. Soon to be shared, RSVP details. Note: space is limited.

And if that's not all ...

Sharelle D. Lowery is this year's Mistress of Ceremonies. I look forward to reconnecting with Sharelle again this year.

Rooms are going fast! If you haven't already booked, click here. And don't forget our exclusive discounted ticket offer just for Bag Ladies Radio listeners, followers and fans: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5652380422/blogaFIVEbags/3526088039
Enter promo code BLRfriend (case sensitive)

Announcements regarding the latest and greatest additions to Blogalicious 2013 continue to pour in. As the "official media partner" to this year's Blogalicious 2013, stay on top of wassup by visiting www.BagLadiesRadio.com and clicking Blog. All you need do is search Blogalicious for the latest happenings.

Tomorrow's #BagLadiesLIVE

Visit www.BagLadiesRadio.com and click Listen for the scoop on tomorrow's show and the guest lineup. We are dishing on the Back-To-School frenzy.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

Catch up on the dish you missed by going to www.bagladiesradio.com/listen. Scroll down to OnDemand and press play.

The Blogalicious 2013 Schedule is Up!

For those of us who have previously attended Blogalicious, we wait on "pins and needles" for the weekend schedule and to see just how Blogalicious will out-do themselves from the previous year. This year's 2013 line up is sick! And includes an outline of events and activities from the first Blogalicious Pop-Up Shop (heard first on Bag Ladies Radio), to a #Scandalicious watch party and of course, a plethora of workshops and panels led by awesome speakers supporting this year's Blogalicious 2013 theme, "Create, Build, Fund."

And to think there is still more to come!! It's a work in progress literally. Take a peek for yourselves: http://blogaliciousfive.sched.org

As the "official media partner", myself and cast will be there. So what are you waiting for?! Don't forget our exclusive Bag Ladies Radio ticket offer at: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5652380422/blogaFIVEbags/3526088039
Enter promo code BLRfriend (case sensitive)

Be sure to check back here often for the latest and greatest news. Search Blogalicious.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

Catch up on the dish you missed by going to www.bagladiesradio.com/listen. Scroll down to OnDemand and press play.

A 20% Discount to Blogalicious 2013? It's a Bag Ladies Radio Exclusive ...

I am siked to be able to extend to all my Bag Ladies Radio listeners, followers and fans a discount to this year's Blogalicious 2013. If you missed the shout-out by Blogalicious Curator, Stacey Ferguson on last week's Power Hour, visit www.bagladiesradio.com and click Listen to catch up OnDemand/iTunes.

Onto the good stuff!! To redeem your not 5, not 10 but 20% ticket discount to Blogalicious 2013 going down in the ATL from October 3rd - October 5th, you must visit this Bag Ladies Radio official link:
http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5652380422/blogaFIVEbags/3526088039
Once there, enter promo code: BLRfriend (please note: the code is case sensitive)


Blogalicious is one of the largest annual social media events celebrating diversity in blogging. Bag Ladies Radio is this year's official media partner. But look to the left. That's moi in the hat. This is a pic shot from last year's #Blogalicious12 in Vegas. Obviously my sharing totally takes away the premise of "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas." But my point is that as much as Blogalicious is a worthwhile investment in your brand/your biz, it's a straight up PAR-TAY too! Don't say I didn't tell ya!

Please be sure to leave a comment and let me know if you're coming. Myself and the #BagLadiesLIVE cast will see
you in October!!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

Catch up on the dish you missed by going to www.bagladiesradio.com/listen. Scroll down to OnDemand and press play.

Heard 1st on Bag Ladies Radio: Exclusive Scoop and Discounted Tix on BlogaliciousFIVE.

I got some exclusive "dish" this morning on this year's 2013 Blogalicious, going down in the ATL in October. This year marks the 5-year anniversary and it's gonna be a celebration in every sense of the word. Bag Ladies Radio is the official media partner. Click for Friday's announcement: http://mybagladies.blogspot.com/2013/07/bag-ladies-radio-is-official-social.html 

My guest and Blogalicious Curator Stacey Ferguson provided me an exclusive sneak peek regarding the first ever Blogalicious Pop-up Shop meaning it has not been heard anywhere else and has only been heard on Bag Ladies Radio. 

And Stacey graciously extended a discounted tix offer to you, Bag Ladies Radio listeners, followers and fans. You must visit the following link and then enter promo code BLRfriend (case sensitive) in order to receive your 20% discount to Blogalicious 2013: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5652380422/blogaFIVEbags/3526088039

If you missed this morning's Power Hour and all the exclusive dish regarding Blogalicious 2013, the newest addition to the Bag Ladies Radio lineup, featuring Stacey Ferguson, press play to listen OnDemand:

Listen to internet radio with Erin Martin on BlogTalkRadio

And there is still time to get your submissions in for the BlogHerLicious Vlog Festival per a collabo between BlogHer and Blogalicious: http://beblogalicious.com/2013/07/special-sponsor-event-announcement-the-blogherlicious-vlog-festival-at-blogaliciousfive/

--

For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

Catch up on the dish you missed by going to www.bagladiesradio.com/listen. Scroll down to OnDemand and press play.

Bag Ladies Radio is the Official Social Media Partner to #Blogalicious5!!!

The cat's outta the bag! My lips no longer have to be sealed!! The word has "officially" dropped!!! It humbles me, pleases me and excites me to say that Bag Ladies Radio is the official social media partner to this year's #Blogalicious5.

Blogalicious is one of the largest annual social media conferences celebrating diversity in blogging. It's a 3-day conference (but we party hard too), focusing on any and all elements significant to building your brand and to put it simply "getting it." I've been attending for the last three years and am excited to be participating in this capacity. It's a total testament to that which I've learned from this very annual event. Myself and the #BagLadiesLIVE cast will be bringing the experience to you live from the ATL and further enhancing the experience in a way never before done and propelling the celebration that is the 5 year anniversary of Blogalicious. More to come surely!

And might I add, don't wait! To score your tix to the par-tay, the movement, the experience that is Blogalicious, get it: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5652380422/blogaFIVEbags/3526088039

Tune into Monday's "Power Hour" during which I will be joined live by the Curator of Blogalicious, Stacey Ferguson. Get details at www.bagladiesradio.com/listen

And for the full "official" announcement: http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=0363e33819a641ce968d769c0&id=0caabfa9de&e=816cb1fe52
--

For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

Catch up on the dish you missed by going to www.bagladiesradio.com/listen. Scroll down to OnDemand and press play.

We're Looking For An Intern/Assistant

There's a lot of activity and great happenings and we could use some help keeping up. If you have what it takes to fill these two positions or ideas of your own regarding how you might be able to contribute, please email the following to info@bagladiesradio.com with the subject: I Want to Work with Bag Ladies Radio

• A brief explanation of interest (why do you want to work w/ Bag Ladies Radio)
• Your resume 
• Availability
• Contact Information

PLEASE NOTE: The positions are unpaid
--

For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

Catch up on the dish you missed by going to www.bagladiesradio.com/listen. Click the iTunes button or scroll down to OnDemand and press play.