3 Takeaways From The rewardStyle Conference + What I Wore

what i learned at rewardstyle conference takeaways

OUTFIT DETAILS: Lilly Pulitzer Dress // Nude Sandals // Woven Bucket Bag // Necklace // Bracelet // Cuff Bracelet

what i learned rewardstyle conference rsthecon

OUTFIT DETAILS: Tweed Jacket {similar here and here} // Crepe Tie-Waist Shorts // CeCe Shell Top {similar here} // Necklace // Earrings

OUTFIT: CeCe Floral Dress // Theory White Blazer {similar, more affordable option here} // Vince Camuto Blush Sandals

Last week, I had the privilege to attend my first RewardStyle Conference (now called LTK) – an annual conference put on by rewardStyle in Dallas, TX for the their top performing bloggers/creators. It was such a surreal experience. I never imagined I’d be given the opportunity to attend, but I’m incredibly humbled that I was invited to such an amazing conference!

How it Started

I began this whole blogging/online content creation journey way back in 2006 when I was in school at the Art Institute for fashion and retail management. That’s when I started my first blog, StyleFrenzy. Back then, my plan after graduating was to launch an online clothing boutique. I never imagined that I would fall in love with blogging and online video creation and production, leading me down a slightly different path.

As my YouTube channel has changed and evolved over the years, launching this new version of my blog in 2017 has been such a rewarding experience in my career thus far. It provided the space I craved to get back to my blogging roots, write, explore photography and styling, as well as introduce me to incredibly inspiring women along the way! I joined rewardStyle at the end of 2017 and the friendships, guidance, and support its provided in a space that oftentimes feels very lonely has been such a blessing in my life.

If you’re a blogger or online content creator, here are three takeaways I learned at the rewardStyle Conference 2019:

What is LTK (formally known as RewardStyle?)

RewardStyle (now called LTK) is an invitation-only affiliate program that bloggers use to monetize their content. Bloggers and content creators can apply to join to use their services to earn a small commission from purchases made via affiliate links on their blog/social media. The LIKEtoKNOW.it app was created by rewardStyle to make it super easy to shop your favorite blogger’s outfits. If you see a photo on Instagram and it includes a link like this http://liketk.it/2B4vw, you can screenshot the image. Then, when you open up the LTK app, you’ll be able to shop the look and find links to the exact items in the photo. If you don’t have the app, I highly recommend trying it out – you can download it here. {And I’d love for you to follow me here for exclusive content I don’t post anywhere else!}

1. Be open to trying new things and new platforms…and be okay with failing

I can speak from my personal experiences here and say this is one of the best pieces of advice. It doesn’t just apply to the online world, this could apply to anything in life. Technology changes very fast these days and it’s difficult to keep up. However, in order to adapt and grow, you have to be willing to try new things and experiment to find what works best for you. And, sometimes it comes with failure. I believe that every “failure” is an opportunity for growth. As long as you’re growing – whether personally or professionally – you’re on the right track. Keep moving forward and let your “failures” guide you to your next breakthrough…you never know what’s right around the corner!

2. Keep It Real

In today’s Insta-worthy society, people are craving real life stories. Elaborately styled photoshoots are out and real life captures are in. While I do believe the internet is a wonderful way to explore and showcase creativity, I feel it’s extremely important to share candid real life moments to show your audience that most moments in life aren’t Insta-perfect.

3. Know who you are and know your purpose

During the keynote speeches on the first day of conference, Charlotte Jones Anderson, the Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer of the Dallas Cowboys, gave an inspiring message about the power of a brand. Through her work with the Dallas Cowboys, she realized the foundation of a brand is the purpose – the why behind everything you do. Getting clear on who you are, how you make someone feel, and how you innovate is the key to a successful brand. Carrie Roberts, the Director of Marketing Strategy for T-Mobile, echoed this in her session on building a household name. She talked about the importance of having a clear story and mission behind your why. Overall, I enjoyed hearing from successful women and felt encouraged to keep working towards my goals.

I hope you enjoyed this quick recap of #rStheCon, thanks for reading! And if you’re thinking about starting a blog or a passion project that’s been on your heart, I encourage you to begin!