Chicago Blogger Network Event @ Tribute

Last evening, I attended my first EVER Blogger event! I have to admit, I felt very intimidated before arriving. I knew NO ONE! However, upon checking in, I was greeted with smiles and welcomes from Kelly Ryan O'Brien, founder of Chicago Blogger Network, Lexi Hoffman, and the other wonderful ladies of CBN.
The soiree was held at Tribute, a new restaurant located inside the Essex Inn. I stuck to water for the night, but nibbled a bit on the hors d'oeuvres and bite size desserts. The staff was equally friendly and welcoming!

Photo Credit: thefrontrowrunway.com

I scanned the room and put down my jacket to mingle with my fellow Chicago Bloggers. I quickly realized that I was silly to be worried about being nervous to chat with a room full of bloggers. Who was I kidding? This is Chicago, the heart of the Midwest! It was refreshing to learn about others' interests and how they began to blog. We also chatted about technology (a few had to fill me in on some of the new networks, such as Pinterest) and our favorite "big-time" (meaning blogging is now their DAY JOB) bloggers!

Photo Credit: thefrontrowrunway.com

At the end of the night, we all left with swag bags filled with Loopt.com sunglasses, KINDsnacks, Pop chips, Freshii gift certificates, Pink Papaya hand scrub and cream, Sharpies, all inside of a black Chicago Blogger Network tote. It's the perfect "survival" kit for any blogger!

Photo Credit: thefrontrowrunway.com

Moving back to Chicago has made me happy, but I have to admit, it was a big adjustment. Though I am no longer in the heart of the fashion world, I now feel like I belong to a great network of people that speak my language. We love fashion, food, culture, CHICAGO, and most importantly, are supportive of each other's passions. I look forward to future events with CBN!