Talk about two days jam-packed with learning, inspiration, and of course lots of laughing! Not only did we have an amazing time at Design Camp Atlanta last week, but we also learned more than we could have  imagined. We rubbed elbows and made friends with some of the design industry's most fascinating people, caught up on some of the latest design trends, and learned a thing or two about strengthening our business goals!

We thought we'd share just a few of our favorite memories.

First, Barry Dixon. What’s not to love!? Handsome, genuine, eloquent, inspiring .....  His designs are timeless, tasteful and unforgettable. The stories behind his designs were fascinating. Almost every sentence Barry said was a perfect sound bite but one of my favorites was, “It’s great to have a career that feeds my soul… not just my pocketbook.” AMEN.

Second - We love a girl who is not only super-intelligent but can make you laugh your pants off too! Canada-based Kimberley Seldon, owner of Kimberley Seldon Design Group  and Editor in Chief of the online Dabble Magazine was very motivational. Thru years of experiences and lessons learned from many mistakes, Kimberley shared valuable information about the Business of Design (she's written two books on the subject).

Up next, the Indigo Hotel. We could describe this place in one word, COOL. It’s funky interior was inspired by the Fabulous Fox Theatre and the variety of theatrical productions that have graced this historic landmark.

Another favorite, Annie Nozawa from Houzz.com, shared with us the power of Houzz.com. I really appreciate a good speaker and Annie presented herself and her company beautifully. We’ve been major Houzz fans for a while , but her pep-talk encouraged us to give our page a little refresh, check it out HERE!

Clinton Smith, Editorial Director of one of our favorite magazines - Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles was a huge hit! He shared his advice on how to get published in major publications. One of our favorite tid-bits was, “when publications feature your work, they are investing in you as a designer."

We have followed Rhonda Carmen's blog All the Best for years so it was our honor to finally meet her at Design Camp.  She shared her personal thoughts on social media and blogging and stressed the importance of good photography.

Which leads us right to our next favorite part of Design Camp, Gerado Jaconelli, (aka the Hot Scot!). His professional photography tips were priceless, but lets just say, that wasn’t the only reason we were listening!

Of course Design Camp was even better because we got to see many of our designer friends from across the country! Here are some of our gal pals - Kelli Ellis, Linda Holt, Deb Bassnett, Lisa Mende, Liz Carroll, Lori Dennis, and Tam Stone!

 

We had a blast mingling with all of these fabulous ladies at the Sub-Zero and Wolf Showroom on Peachtree Street. Not only was the company great, but the showroom was innovative and inspiring. This seating area was graced with chairs upholstered in orange faux fur and an eye catching light fixture!

Last but not least, Jason McNeely from Hansgrohe, who not only filled us in on the latest and greatest plumbing products from Hansgrohe, but also surprised us with our very own “Oprah Moment!” Hansgrohe gave every camper a FREE Hansgrohe E 120 Hand shower! LUCKY US!

A BIG hug and kiss to Lisa Mende and Traci Zeller for giving us tickets and awarding us this remarkable opportunity!

Design Camp is hitting Seattle next. If you'd like to be a part of it, click HERE.