Tips for Making Wave 1 Smoother and Better: What to Bring?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores what participants wish they had brought to the Wave 1 conference to enhance their experience. Various personal experiences and tips are shared regarding items that could make the conference smoother and more enjoyable.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions the importance of bringing a rolling briefcase or bag due to the large venue.
  • Another participant shares their experience of needing band-aids for blisters and suggests that Moleskin may work better for preventing blisters.
  • Several users mention the value of bringing extra shoes, snacks, and water for convenience during the conference.
  • One participant highlights the benefit of having earplugs to manage noise from roommates, while others discuss their experiences with snoring.
  • Another participant notes the usefulness of bringing business cards for networking opportunities.
  • Some participants express the need for personal comfort items, such as a mini fan for better sleep quality in hotel rooms.
  • One participant suggests packing tissues, referencing emotional moments during the conference.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the necessity of certain items, such as earplugs and Moleskin, with some participants advocating for their importance while others share mixed experiences. No clear consensus emerges on a definitive packing list.

Contextual Notes

Participants are sharing personal experiences and preferences based on past conferences, focusing on comfort and convenience during the event.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants preparing for future conferences may find these shared experiences and tips helpful in planning what to bring.

Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
etteluap70PC said:
Yeah my first conference AIM (no longer a vendor) was selling rolling bags and people were getting really wild with them. You do need to use a bit of extra caution in crowds.

Something I would NEVER take again.... my laptop. It was just too heavy and took up too much space and I never used it.



I have to bring mine... I have a host that is closing her show on tuesday and I want to transmit before midnight si it is on the next payday....:grumpy:
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2closing a show is the only reason I would ever bring it again.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
erinyourpclady said:
OMG...I snore and I can't help it! But I always worn my roomies WAY ahead of time. I think I may pack earplugs for them!

That's sweet of you to do! :thumbup::thumbup:
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
SUSANDISCOCAIAFA said:
I Always Bring My Slippers And Wear Them All Through Conference!!!

What kind of slippers are they?
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2Having just gotten back, I will tell you I didn't wish I had taken much more than what I took. I had one regular sized carry on piece of rolling luggage. I should have taken one more of each of my undergarments. Lots of walking and getting really hot. It feels better to be clean for Executive banquet. Sorry if TMI.

I took 5 water bottles and needed every single one. I replaced the room in my suitcase with brand new packs of mini catalogs for the way home along with other things that I won't be sharing with you right now.

I brought an extra pair of sandals so I didn't have to wear the same shoes two days in a row. Stinky feet.... I brought only one extra shirt to change into for the banquet. I only had two pairs of capris with me. Just fine. I brought only one jacket and my umbrella. Needed the jacket but not the umbrella. I happened to miss the rain by minutes. I'd still bring it next time. I probably didn't need to bring my bag that we received last year, but I really like all the pockets and it was useful for me. Not necassarily necessary, though.

So excited for all of you who have yet to go to conference. You are going to love it. Each general session gets better!
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2Just got back too and HAD A BLAST!!!!! Here's my bring/don't bring list:

Really glad I brought:
Sweater
Snacks
Water bottle
Earplugs
My prescription migraine meds
A nice dress and shoes for Banquet: I didn't walk, but it was nice to dress up with everyone else!

Wish I had brought
Very comfortable walking shoes, with inserts
Bandaids/moleskin
Aleve/Tylenol
Backpack: the tote is nice, but it's one shoulder only
Folding luggage cart and bungee cords for schlepping around the surprise boxes
Camera

Don't bother:
Gym clothes: up too early/to bed too late for a workout
A lot of cash
Cute but uncomfortable shoes (other than for banquet)


HAVE FUN WAVE 2 AND 3!
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
etteluap70PC said:
Yeah my first conference AIM (no longer a vendor) was selling rolling bags and people were getting really wild with them. You do need to use a bit of extra caution in crowds.

Something I would NEVER take again.... my laptop. It was just too heavy and took up too much space and I never used it.

I was going to bring my laptop, but leave it at the hotel like I did last year. Unfortunately my laptop has decided for me that it doesn't want to go. It's screen/monitor is about to go kaput. :cry: I can tell it's on its way out. AFter reading through some Dell forums, it seems that it's the inverter or backlight or something like that (whatever the heck THOSE are). Of course it's not under warranty any more so I need to explore getting it replaced and see if it's worth it to do that or just buy a new one.

Sorry for the rant....I'm mad at my laptop. The biggest thing I liked it for was checking emails and seeing sales that come in while I'm at conference. I let my roomies use it too. Unless it's fixed before Wednesday, it'll stay home or be at the repair shop. Bad, bad laptop.:mad: (If anyone has had similar problems, please let me know. The screen only works when I"m going off the battery because it is dimmed).
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
pamperedbecky said:
(If anyone has had similar problems, please let me know. The screen only works when I"m going off the battery because it is dimmed).

Becky, I also have a Dell and am having similar problems. My screen goes completely black though, and it only works when I'm running off the battery and its not plugged in, however my battery is pretty much dead and only lasts 10 minutes fully charged, so it makes using my laptop almost impossible.

I have no advice as far as how to fix it, but thought I'd let you know I understand your frustrations.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
chefbritt said:
Becky, I also have a Dell and am having similar problems. My screen goes completely black though, and it only works when I'm running off the battery and its not plugged in, however my battery is pretty much dead and only lasts 10 minutes fully charged, so it makes using my laptop almost impossible.

I have no advice as far as how to fix it, but thought I'd let you know I understand your frustrations.

Yep, that's my same problem exactly-my screen going black. NOt while I'm using the battery though - although luckily my battery lasts a while longer than yours.:grumpy: I've looked at a few things on the Dell forums and those problems I mentioned seemed to be what others suggested to other people. Ugggg. I'm going to explore getting it at least checked out on Monday. Good luck with yours!! My screen sometimes flickers now even just on the battery, so I can tell it's going to get worse.:(
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2Susan - If I had gotten to actually see you I would have shared my Aleve.

I packed VERY light. My purse, laptop and one very small rolling suitcase. I was fine all conference. Last year I overpacked and this year was just fine. I forgot a jacket/sweater but my mom lent me a cardigan. I wore it all 3 days - good to have - some rooms are cold but outside was beautiful except for the downpour. I got soaked BUT DID NOT MELT! :)

I thought the food was good this year, both breakfast meals equally good!

Have a blast guys! I'll post more when I'm finally back home in a few days.

Beth - if you get online - don't forget to call Monday morning - kids are looking forward to meeting you.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2hey janet, we did meet...i was at the M&G sitting next to you for all of 10 mins before i had to zonk out. Thanks for the retroactive offer though!

can't wait till wave 3 is over so we can dish dish dish!
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
susanr613 said:
hey janet, we did meet...i was at the M&G sitting next to you for all of 10 mins before i had to zonk out. Thanks for the retroactive offer though!

can't wait till wave 3 is over so we can dish dish dish!


I'm sorry Susan! My arrival was a blur since I was late! Got it!
I hope not feeling well didn't spoil your conference!
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2well it was a bummer not to be able to hang out late, but i enjoyed NC just the same. already have promised myself i will be 30 pounds lighter and several commission points/overrides heavier (director) next NC ;-)
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
susanr613 said:
well it was a bummer not to be able to hang out late, but i enjoyed NC just the same. already have promised myself i will be 30 pounds lighter and several commission points/overrides heavier (director) next NC ;-)

What? Seriously? I can't imagine why! We need to be able to see you. Please, don't disappear.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2oh jae you're too kind <blush> and thank you for reminding me we met in the elevator :-)
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
susanr613 said:
oh jae you're too kind <blush> and thank you for reminding me we met in the elevator :-)

Actually Susan - I thought you were a petite little thing.....:)
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2he he he you saw me in my slimming dress with shapewear, not the tight capris ;-)
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
susanr613 said:
he he he you saw me in my slimming dress with shapewear, not the tight capris ;-)
Get me some of that shapewear. It seems to be doing a great job for you.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2I CANNOT WAIT TO GO TO CONFERENCE NOW!!!! Wave 3 stinks!
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2I think I'd be anxious if I had to wait for wave 3, too. Try not to find out about stuff from Wave 1 and 2. It's so fun to be surprised.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2Take an umbrella. It may rain even if the forecast says no.

AND

Take Be a Master Seller ... it is the best workshop EVER and was taught by the best presenter EVER ... I hope they bring her back for Waves 2 and 3!
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2NO NO NO LAPTOP! I NOW NEED TO GO TO A CHIROPRACTOR from carrying it! UGH! It was nice to check e-mail once (too expensive at hotel more than that) and a royal pain in the @#$ on last day of Conference and through security. You REALLY DO NOT NEED IT!!!
Pack extremely light. (to make room for all the goodies! :)
Same pair of pants 2 days, different tops. Bring a jacket. I am VERY hot natured and I got COLD! BRRR. The Exec. banquet was freezing many were putting napkins over their shoulders. Some workshop rooms are a bit chilly too!
BEWARE of Hilton Chicago. BIGTIME billing issues! DO NOT LET THEM OVERCHARGE YOU!!! They kept authorizing our accounts instead of charging it like they told me they would. They authorized over $180 over what I was supposed to pay. My roomate was over $700! MANY MANY others had a ton of difficulties!
Bring snacks! Protein! Nuts, granola bars, etc. We got fed well but still get a bit hungry between meals and all that walking!
Set a LIMIT at booths! OH MY GOSH I OVERSPENT AT MERRILL AND IT WAS EXTREMELY EASY TO DO THAT THIS YEAR!!! OH MY!!!
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2How much 'extra room' will we need in our suitcase for goodies? I'm trying to get along wiht only carry-on size luggage this year.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
pamperedlinda said:
How much 'extra room' will we need in our suitcase for goodies? I'm trying to get along wiht only carry-on size luggage this year.

It's CRAZY! I didn't buy much (just some mini's, and a couple shirts) but somehow, my bag was stuffed coming home - still trying to figure out why. Your director gift, Career Club gift, and Exec Banquet gift are all WONDERFUL - but not big...it must just be an accumulation of all of the small things.

I'm a light packer. I had just a small rolling carry-on, and I managed to fit everything in there going home, except for a few small items that I had to carry in my new PC TOTE! (Which you are all going to just love!)
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2Thanks Becky.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
pamperedbecky said:
Yep, that's my same problem exactly-my screen going black. NOt while I'm using the battery though - although luckily my battery lasts a while longer than yours.:grumpy: I've looked at a few things on the Dell forums and those problems I mentioned seemed to be what others suggested to other people. Ugggg. I'm going to explore getting it at least checked out on Monday. Good luck with yours!! My screen sometimes flickers now even just on the battery, so I can tell it's going to get worse.:(

Can I ask how long you have had your Dell? I just got one a few months ago and am now worried!

Oh and Becky... Don't you have internet access on your phone? I thought you had mentioned it a few months ago when we were discussing phone options.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2:):):chef:Reading all your posts is so helpful! I am so excited I can't stand it!!! I will be leaving on Weds for the 6hr drive. I never would have thought to bring ear plugs but I will have a roomie that snores and I am such a light sleeper-thank you for sharing. And the first year I went I froze, the second year I roasted...now it seems this year it will be cold again. But I have a heads up on that, right? I have already got my list of what I want to pack thanks to you all... :) :chef:
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2Make sure you get a second pillow out of the closet before you turn the lights out for the night. You may need it over your head to keep light or sound out.
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
chefliz said:
:):):chef:Reading all your posts is so helpful! I am so excited I can't stand it!!! I will be leaving on Weds for the 6hr drive. I never would have thought to bring ear plugs but I will have a roomie that snores and I am such a light sleeper-thank you for sharing. And the first year I went I froze, the second year I roasted...now it seems this year it will be cold again. But I have a heads up on that, right? I have already got my list of what I want to pack thanks to you all... :) :chef:

Where are you in OH?
 
Re: Things you wish you had taken but didn't..... tips for bringing stuff for wave 2
Di_Can_Cook said:
Take an umbrella. It may rain even if the forecast says no.

AND

Take Be a Master Seller ... it is the best workshop EVER and was taught by the best presenter EVER ... I hope they bring her back for Waves 2 and 3!


Di...who did you have for your workshop? I had Penney Parkes and walked away AMAZED!!!

I agree about the umbrella, forgot mine and Thursday night it down poured.

Also, to those of you who suggested Merrell shoes....THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!!! I bought a pair of sandals and my feet NEVER hurt once the whole time. Even the girls I was with that work flip flops the whole time had problems with their feet and I had ZERO!!

Also, for any first timers - if you want to go to the Merrill store, get there ASAP!!! We took the the 7:00 am HO tour and when we got back the Merrill store was completely picked over and hardly anything was left. It forced us not to over spend though!!
 

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