ALT SUMMIT 2019 | THE SAGUARO | PALM SPRINGS PHOTOGRAPHER

ALT SUMMIT 2019 | THE SAGUARO | PALM SPRINGS PHOTOGRAPHER

ABOUT THIS WEEK

Last year was the first time I had heard about Altitude Summit (“Alt Summit”). It’s a creative conference in Palm Springs, hosted every year in March. The first ten events sold out so quickly, that this year they expanded the event to four hotels. This gave almost 2,000 attendees the opportunity to gather, learn, network, create, and grow. And I feel so fortunate that I got to be part of all of that.

FIVE FUN FACTS

1. Alt Summit took place between four hotels: The Saguaro (pronounced Sa-wah-roh), The Riviera, The Parker, and The Ace. Each hotel had a unique style and was really fun to explore. Classes took place throughout the day at each hotel, allowing guests to crossover and visit.
2. There are a plethora of education choices! From exclusive full day workshops, panels, roundtables, ask-an-expert meetings, micro-workshops, and organic mentoring with new friends.
3. This event is PERFECT for building content. Not only are the hotels gorgeous, but there are sponsors galore who have created multiple installations, backdrops, and stylish decorations. Take a photo walk and create a bank of images to save for later in the year.
4. One of the things I looked forward to the most was meeting tons of new people. Alt Summit did not disappoint. I have met so many creatives this week with so many different passions from myself. It’s offered a lot of great perspective, conversation, and inspiration to take home.
5. This event is all about the makers. While you meet tons of people who have goodies to pass along, there are also formal situations for gaining swag. There was a gifting party where you got to hand pick items to take away (for me: earrings, a ring dish, a “be a nice human” tee, emoji party plates, and cactus cake toppers!). You’ll find booths ALL OVER being sponsored by companies who brought presents to give away, also.

FIVE PLANNING TIPS

1. Plan early! I purchased my ticket on launch day last year in July, which gave me a few months before room blocks opened in September to prepare for a second large fee. I even snagged a stellar deal on Black Friday for my flight-which we took to San Diego to extend our trip and see a little more of California (Hello, flower fields!).
2. Take your time! This week was a whirlwind, even with a few extra days on each side of the conference. I recommend arriving a few days early, and setting time aside for yourself after as well. This will help you get settled, feel prepared, avoid over-stimulation, and reflect before you head home. Next year I’m planning for two weeks!
3. Don’t overshare! Alt Summit is a HUGE conference. There is a lot going on, a lot of bouncing around, and can be a little overwhelming at times. Having a room to yourself can offer you a place to retreat when you need it. Recharging your batteries so you stay fresh for everything there is to offer is CRUCIAL. While it may be cheaper to stack the roomies-consider your travel needs first!
4. Get a rental! While I’m not entirely sure how many hotels Alt Summit plans to utilize next year, our rental car was a lifesaver. Whether it was getting back and forth from classes and events or running out for dinner-the convenience was worth it in every way. Parking was typically pretty easy and most places offer valet if you are in a pinch for time. I highly recommend giving yourself extra time to get ready in the morning as well as a nap/meditation hour later in the day.
5. Be picky! When it comes to the content for the conference, know that there is A LOT. There may be times where you have multiple things you want to attend. It can be hard to choose. I recommend taking a good look at what’s offered and picking five things to commit to. You may definitely make more, but setting the expectation can help to keep your schedule flexible so you can make time for socializing, visiting craft demos, book signings, and of course-pool time! The conference is so much more than simply courses or networking. You will want time to break way to explore.

COME BACK SOON!

Over the next week or two, I’ll be sharing more about my Alt Summit experience. I have so many photos! To see and hear more, be sure to check back in on the blog. ‘Til next time!

-Ash