I am watching this several months later. I went as a newbie and introvert as well. I too met someone who I connected with and it changed the conference for me. I echo what you said about the cliques, etc. I chatted with people in lines, etc. But I didn't get the warm inclusive feeling that everyone talks about. I am still thinking about going back in 2025 though.
Thanks for the super detailed and well edited video! I was so bummed not to be able to go this year, so I appreciate you sharing your experience, especially the Martha Stewart clip! Looking forward to being a first timer in the near future!
I love this video. I wanted to go but I didn’t know anyone to go with and I was scared to go alone but this video helped me so because of this I would love to go next year thank you 😊
Thank you for your honesty on the Go Wild. I have heard from one other Solo First Timer who said the same thing. She felt very isolated initially until 1 or 2 people approached her. She mentioned there were regular folks who have established groups and initially felt a little alone. I do appreciate the honesty.
Of course! I had a feeling I wouldn't be the only one, but I haven't found too many videos with people saying anything other than how great it is. If you remember the channel name , I would love to check it out!
Thank you for your review. All the reviews I see seem to just have positive things to say which is great but you really touched on my fears! I want to go so badly but with a friend. I too would bring my hubby for moral support so I love that you did that. I always thought I’d be the only one if I did. You made me feel like maybe I could work up the courage to go one of these years. I’m from 🇨🇦 Canada so hoping for a bit of a cheaper location in terms of flights. 🤞
Thank you! I appreciated that my husband went with me, even though planners are NOT his thing, it was nice to vent, or share things about the event. Although, he was so relieved when I made a friend , so he didn't have to be confused about all the things I was talking about! lol He mentioned possibly buying a ticket for himself next time, so he can carry all my swag! lol You would not be the only one! I even learned about a groups of people who would bring their spouses and they talked about starting a support group, like the real husbands/spouses of go wild ! I told my husband, and now he has a game plan for next year, should we decide to go. I hope you are able to attend in the future, let me know if you do!
@@theMichelleMayhemm Your husband sounds hilarious! I can so relate to what you say about your hubby not knowing what you’re talking about. Mine says, “are you playing with your stickers” when I am working in my planner. I just say, yup! And leave it at that. Mine loves to travel though so I know he would love going anywhere. I am just hoping that it will be someplace that we both want to see, regardless of the conference, and turn it into a longer trip. If I don’t make it next year, I am making it a priority for the following year. My daughter is getting married in the fall so she might break my bank account with that this year!! lol.
Michelle, thank you so much for your experience. I attended as well for the first time and I brought a friend with me who isn't as into planning as I am. While we had a good time, I think in the future I would prefer to attend alone as she wasn't as into all the things I was. In fact for Friday, I knew it was important to get downstairs early and she took her time getting ready. I ended up heading down by myself at 6 and she came down closer to 8. I had a good time standing in line without her. I had run into someone I watch on UA-cam and we stood in line together. I'm not an introvert, but am extremely shy until I get to know people so it's hard for me to do things alone. I surprised myself by approaching a few people I recognized from UA-cam but I also agree with you about the cliques. While I did not have any rude experiences from any of them, it was very oblivious they did not want to include anyone new in their group. I want to attend in the future, and mostly it may come down to location, but I hope to make friends and lasting friends. Having my friend with me, tended to keep me from putting myself out there more and forging new friendships.
I agree, I would love to attend again but knowing what I know now will better prepare me. lol It would also depend on location, but hopefully I will get to meet you there should we both decide to go!
Hi Michelle, Thank you for your honest review of GW. Yours was the 3rd video I watched about GW, and if I had only watched those videos, I would have thought GW was a small, quiet kind of conference. But your video showed the enormity of the crowds and frankly, the silliness, of the participants. I just don't act like that. Yes, I can get silly, but not to the extent that some people did in your video. You mentioned spending about $2400. I would prefer to pick out my own stuff and for that money, it would be quite the haul! lol The sound system seemed really bad and that would have pissed me off. I just don't think with all the cliquing, noise, etc. that a GW convention would be pleasurable for me. Thanks for providing a different perspective of thie conference.
I heard that 1600 people attended! which is kinda crazy ! I'm not super silly either, but I'm all for a good time. :) You are absolutely right, $2400 will buy way more swag than I got at this event. I have heard a few other people make the same observation about the sound system. lol thank you, I'm always glad to offer a different perspective !
Thank you for sharing! I would love to go some day. But I have no one to go with and from the past videos I've seen, it does feel like you would have more fun with friends. It's pretty expensive and my fear is that I would spend all that money and just be a ball of anxiety the entire time because I would be by myself.
I totally understand that, and it's not cheap, so I think I put the same kind of pressure on myself before going! If you do decide to go, I recommend finding people in your local area to connect with that may like to join you. I would say to try to be active in group chats, and take advantage of the newbie zoom calls that is hosted by the go wild team to try to meet people beforehand. In retrospect, I wish I was able to make it to just one!
It's 2024--who still smokes?!? Most hotels have gone smoke-free indoors (my damaged lungs thank the world for that). LOVE your card! I'm not sure I'd call them "cliques" but there are definitely groups who came togethr; I met one group (they were super nice) who all go to GW every year and it is the only time they get to see each other in person. So I get that they want to spend all of their time together. I did go with a friend, and even though we were not glued to each other all weekend or anything I think that was my best plan. I did meet some really great other people, but not everyone gave out contact information to stay in touch. Technically the only Go Wild "swag" (that's "stuff we all get") was the badge box contents, the tote bag, and the tee shirt. Everything else was either a gift (table sponsors, for example) or a "must be present to receive" (like the things distributed during the sessions). What did you think of how the schedule was set up? I would have loved for things to start a bit later in the morning, and to have things in between the main session and the night party both days.
lol that is a good question! I thought all of the people who smoked, moved on to vaping. I can understand how some groups are more inclined to stick together, especially after forming their friendships over YEARS, and getting to hang at that event. I don't feel like anyone is obligated to welcome me in their group, but it did seem like a couple of groups of "planner elite" weren't really interested in having conversations with other people. To their credit I did witness them take the obligatory pics, and be nice to the people who asked them for one. Another instance, I spoke to a someone who was on the happy planner squad at one point, and myself and another young lady were trying to make conversation with them while we were waiting for the Welcome party to kick off.. as soon as they notice another member of the squad they peaced out! lol they were like "Well.... I'm gonna go hang with my friend now.. bye!" The way me and the other lady were left in such a hurry, was kinda comical. Luckily I have pretty thick skin, and didn't take it personally, but I remember how fast it was, and we couldn't help but laugh. As far as the schedule goes, I would have like if some things started a bit later, but I did appreciate the time in between sessions and later events , mainly because I felt the need to regroup and recharge.
Even if someone smokes outside, they carry their odor into the elevator and hallways. Sorry, but never share a room with a smoker. (ex smoker gone rabid here)
@@paulashealthyliving True. You've heard of secondhand smoke, where someone passively inhales smoke because they are around someone who is smoking? Turns out there is a thing called third-hand smoke, which is exposure to the cigarette residue left behind on fabrics, walls, flooring materials, furniture, etc.
I really enjoyed the video! It gave a nice overview and honestly, your experience was about what I would have expected. I’ve never been to GW, but I follow along with some of those who have since its inception. I’ve been using planners since the late 70s/early 80s… Yes, I’m that old… Lol although without trying to sound like an a hole no one would probably guess my actual age since I tend to look and act younger. But I can be a bit of an introvert as well and large crowds where you have to make an effort to be interactive really exhaust me. Maybe that’s because throughout my entire career, attending and speaking at conferences was a part of it. It would take me a week or two to detox afterwards, so whenever I see the announcements for GW, I asked myself… Do I really want to do this? I guess the answer has been no since I haven’t yet attended. I wouldn’t be opposed to attending some thing on a smaller scale, though. And, though politically incorrect to say so, I really enjoyed the videos of the conference when the actual Erin Condren attended. She was a hoot. Sorry if that’s offensive to anyone. Just sayin. Anyway, I’m looking forward to the swag video as it is fun to see what others get. And I’m glad that it turned out to be a positive experience for you! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much! I have always enjoyed watching everyone’s past go wild experiences. I chose this one specifically because it was local and I figured if I really hated it, I could always go home. Lol it was kinda stressful and it was definitely exhausting…but I got more and more excited for the events as it progressed , which I didn’t expect. If you would like to attend, I advise looking in to local planner groups in your area as it might help you get an idea of discussing similar interests with like minded people. It might even help you find someone that might be willing to attend with you. I wish I had done this in the beginning! I found the go wild group helpful because of the side groups and side chats! No worries! I wasn’t offended about Erin Condren, she can be funny but do shitty things. Lol I hope you if do decide to go, that you have a blast!
Thank you so much for your honest experience!! I've only ever attended an anime convention and that was SO MUCH to take in. I can definitely see how it can be isolating if you're by yourself. Friends make all the difference!
Of course! 😊 I’ve been to anime, and horror conventions, but this… was like a convention on crack! lol it was mentally and physically exhausting, but in the end… I’d give it another go. :)
It was hard and honestly, a little stressful stepping out of my comfort zone, but once I got the hang of the layout of the hotel, and checking the agenda for events , And meeting new people, it got easier! I hope to see you on the next one!
You said the key word, “clique”. That’s exactly why I won’t go. Too many cliques. It’s a popularity contest as well…IMO. And the price!!! Girl. Issa no. Paying all that money for a few sponsored activities \events and swag.. I just can’t justify it. Oddly enough, my son lives 10 mins from Lowe’s Hotel….30 mins from Love Field. I was there visiting during Go Wild. You’re right tho, the weather got shitty. Like, I coulda kept my butt in KS. lol. Thanks for sharing your experience.
lol I totally get where your coming from! I understand that people are under no obligation to welcome me in their group, but the newbie groups make such a big deals about how many friends you'll make , and how much fun you are going to have. Honestly, it really sets an unrealistic expectation for some people. I'm used to the weather being shitty , but I can see how that might really mess up a vacation. lol I'm glad you saved all that money!
Thank you so much for sharing !!! I was supposed to be there but had to make a choice as I was suddenly car-less, the car won, I'm happy I can live vicariously through you and your videos, I will be there next year and hopefully I can meet up with you, I to am an introvert and thankful there are other sisters out there
Omg Michelle! So happy we met, hanging out with you made it so worth it! 💯 agree with your final thoughts! I will definitely, possibly maybe go with you haha!
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I am watching this several months later. I went as a newbie and introvert as well. I too met someone who I connected with and it changed the conference for me. I echo what you said about the cliques, etc. I chatted with people in lines, etc. But I didn't get the warm inclusive feeling that everyone talks about. I am still thinking about going back in 2025 though.
Thanks for the super detailed and well edited video! I was so bummed not to be able to go this year, so I appreciate you sharing your experience, especially the Martha Stewart clip! Looking forward to being a first timer in the near future!
I love this video. I wanted to go but I didn’t know anyone to go with and I was scared to go alone but this video helped me so because of this I would love to go next year thank you 😊
Thank you! Maybe I will get to see ya there!
Thank you for your honesty on the Go Wild. I have heard from one other Solo First Timer who said the same thing. She felt very isolated initially until 1 or 2 people approached her. She mentioned there were regular folks who have established groups and initially felt a little alone. I do appreciate the honesty.
Of course! I had a feeling I wouldn't be the only one, but I haven't found too many videos with people saying anything other than how great it is. If you remember the channel name , I would love to check it out!
Thank you for your review. All the reviews I see seem to just have positive things to say which is great but you really touched on my fears! I want to go so badly but with a friend. I too would bring my hubby for moral support so I love that you did that. I always thought I’d be the only one if I did. You made me feel like maybe I could work up the courage to go one of these years. I’m from 🇨🇦 Canada so hoping for a bit of a cheaper location in terms of flights. 🤞
Thank you! I appreciated that my husband went with me, even though planners are NOT his thing, it was nice to vent, or share things about the event. Although, he was so relieved when I made a friend , so he didn't have to be confused about all the things I was talking about! lol He mentioned possibly buying a ticket for himself next time, so he can carry all my swag! lol You would not be the only one! I even learned about a groups of people who would bring their spouses and they talked about starting a support group, like the real husbands/spouses of go wild ! I told my husband, and now he has a game plan for next year, should we decide to go. I hope you are able to attend in the future, let me know if you do!
@@theMichelleMayhemm Your husband sounds hilarious! I can so relate to what you say about your hubby not knowing what you’re talking about. Mine says, “are you playing with your stickers” when I am working in my planner. I just say, yup! And leave it at that. Mine loves to travel though so I know he would love going anywhere. I am just hoping that it will be someplace that we both want to see, regardless of the conference, and turn it into a longer trip. If I don’t make it next year, I am making it a priority for the following year. My daughter is getting married in the fall so she might break my bank account with that this year!! lol.
Michelle, thank you so much for your experience. I attended as well for the first time and I brought a friend with me who isn't as into planning as I am. While we had a good time, I think in the future I would prefer to attend alone as she wasn't as into all the things I was. In fact for Friday, I knew it was important to get downstairs early and she took her time getting ready. I ended up heading down by myself at 6 and she came down closer to 8. I had a good time standing in line without her. I had run into someone I watch on UA-cam and we stood in line together. I'm not an introvert, but am extremely shy until I get to know people so it's hard for me to do things alone. I surprised myself by approaching a few people I recognized from UA-cam but I also agree with you about the cliques. While I did not have any rude experiences from any of them, it was very oblivious they did not want to include anyone new in their group. I want to attend in the future, and mostly it may come down to location, but I hope to make friends and lasting friends. Having my friend with me, tended to keep me from putting myself out there more and forging new friendships.
I agree, I would love to attend again but knowing what I know now will better prepare me. lol It would also depend on location, but hopefully I will get to meet you there should we both decide to go!
Hi Michelle, Thank you for your honest review of GW. Yours was the 3rd video I watched about GW, and if I had only watched those videos, I would have thought GW was a small, quiet kind of conference. But your video showed the enormity of the crowds and frankly, the silliness, of the participants. I just don't act like that. Yes, I can get silly, but not to the extent that some people did in your video. You mentioned spending about $2400. I would prefer to pick out my own stuff and for that money, it would be quite the haul! lol The sound system seemed really bad and that would have pissed me off. I just don't think with all the cliquing, noise, etc. that a GW convention would be pleasurable for me. Thanks for providing a different perspective of thie conference.
I heard that 1600 people attended! which is kinda crazy ! I'm not super silly either, but I'm all for a good time. :) You are absolutely right, $2400 will buy way more swag than I got at this event. I have heard a few other people make the same observation about the sound system. lol thank you, I'm always glad to offer a different perspective !
Thank you for sharing! I would love to go some day. But I have no one to go with and from the past videos I've seen, it does feel like you would have more fun with friends. It's pretty expensive and my fear is that I would spend all that money and just be a ball of anxiety the entire time because I would be by myself.
I totally understand that, and it's not cheap, so I think I put the same kind of pressure on myself before going! If you do decide to go, I recommend finding people in your local area to connect with that may like to join you. I would say to try to be active in group chats, and take advantage of the newbie zoom calls that is hosted by the go wild team to try to meet people beforehand. In retrospect, I wish I was able to make it to just one!
thanks for the information.
It's 2024--who still smokes?!? Most hotels have gone smoke-free indoors (my damaged lungs thank the world for that). LOVE your card! I'm not sure I'd call them "cliques" but there are definitely groups who came togethr; I met one group (they were super nice) who all go to GW every year and it is the only time they get to see each other in person. So I get that they want to spend all of their time together. I did go with a friend, and even though we were not glued to each other all weekend or anything I think that was my best plan. I did meet some really great other people, but not everyone gave out contact information to stay in touch. Technically the only Go Wild "swag" (that's "stuff we all get") was the badge box contents, the tote bag, and the tee shirt. Everything else was either a gift (table sponsors, for example) or a "must be present to receive" (like the things distributed during the sessions). What did you think of how the schedule was set up? I would have loved for things to start a bit later in the morning, and to have things in between the main session and the night party both days.
lol that is a good question! I thought all of the people who smoked, moved on to vaping. I can understand how some groups are more inclined to stick together, especially after forming their friendships over YEARS, and getting to hang at that event. I don't feel like anyone is obligated to welcome me in their group, but it did seem like a couple of groups of "planner elite" weren't really interested in having conversations with other people. To their credit I did witness them take the obligatory pics, and be nice to the people who asked them for one. Another instance, I spoke to a someone who was on the happy planner squad at one point, and myself and another young lady were trying to make conversation with them while we were waiting for the Welcome party to kick off.. as soon as they notice another member of the squad they peaced out! lol they were like "Well.... I'm gonna go hang with my friend now.. bye!" The way me and the other lady were left in such a hurry, was kinda comical. Luckily I have pretty thick skin, and didn't take it personally, but I remember how fast it was, and we couldn't help but laugh. As far as the schedule goes, I would have like if some things started a bit later, but I did appreciate the time in between sessions and later events , mainly because I felt the need to regroup and recharge.
Even if someone smokes outside, they carry their odor into the elevator and hallways. Sorry, but never share a room with a smoker. (ex smoker gone rabid here)
@@paulashealthyliving True. You've heard of secondhand smoke, where someone passively inhales smoke because they are around someone who is smoking? Turns out there is a thing called third-hand smoke, which is exposure to the cigarette residue left behind on fabrics, walls, flooring materials, furniture, etc.
I’m thinking about next year and will be alone if I go unless my life seriously changes, so definitely appreciate the honest review.
I hope that if you decide to go, that you have a blast!
I really enjoyed the video! It gave a nice overview and honestly, your experience was about what I would have expected. I’ve never been to GW, but I follow along with some of those who have since its inception. I’ve been using planners since the late 70s/early 80s… Yes, I’m that old… Lol although without trying to sound like an a hole no one would probably guess my actual age since I tend to look and act younger. But I can be a bit of an introvert as well and large crowds where you have to make an effort to be interactive really exhaust me. Maybe that’s because throughout my entire career, attending and speaking at conferences was a part of it. It would take me a week or two to detox afterwards, so whenever I see the announcements for GW, I asked myself… Do I really want to do this? I guess the answer has been no since I haven’t yet attended. I wouldn’t be opposed to attending some thing on a smaller scale, though. And, though politically incorrect to say so, I really enjoyed the videos of the conference when the actual Erin Condren attended. She was a hoot. Sorry if that’s offensive to anyone. Just sayin. Anyway, I’m looking forward to the swag video as it is fun to see what others get. And I’m glad that it turned out to be a positive experience for you! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much! I have always enjoyed watching everyone’s past go wild experiences. I chose this one specifically because it was local and I figured if I really hated it, I could always go home. Lol it was kinda stressful and it was definitely exhausting…but I got more and more excited for the events as it progressed , which I didn’t expect. If you would like to attend, I advise looking in to local planner groups in your area as it might help you get an idea of discussing similar interests with like minded people. It might even help you find someone that might be willing to attend with you. I wish I had done this in the beginning! I found the go wild group helpful because of the side groups and side chats! No worries! I wasn’t offended about Erin Condren, she can be funny but do shitty things. Lol I hope you if do decide to go, that you have a blast!
Thank you so much for your honest experience!! I've only ever attended an anime convention and that was SO MUCH to take in. I can definitely see how it can be isolating if you're by yourself. Friends make all the difference!
Of course! 😊 I’ve been to anime, and horror conventions, but this… was like a convention on crack! lol it was mentally and physically exhausting, but in the end… I’d give it another go. :)
I want to go a GO WILD in 2025 but Im just like you. Im a intervert too.
It was hard and honestly, a little stressful stepping out of my comfort zone, but once I got the hang of the layout of the hotel, and checking the agenda for events , And meeting new people, it got easier! I hope to see you on the next one!
Me too! I’m a new subscriber! I’m so happy UA-cam suggested your video today! Very helpful!
@@JaimeLee0555 Ty! I’m glad it was able to help❤️hope I’ll meet you there someday!
Refreshing perspective! Thanks for sharing! Never been, from 🇨🇦
Thank you, I hope it was helpful!
Where are you from? I’m from Canada too but have not gone because of being worried that it would be lonely. 😕
@lisakozyniak2988 Hi Lisa, i agree. I'm from Brampton, Ontario. The currency exchange makes me want to seek out Canadian planner events.
You said the key word, “clique”. That’s exactly why I won’t go. Too many cliques. It’s a popularity contest as well…IMO. And the price!!! Girl. Issa no. Paying all that money for a few sponsored activities \events and swag.. I just can’t justify it. Oddly enough, my son lives 10 mins from Lowe’s Hotel….30 mins from Love Field. I was there visiting during Go Wild. You’re right tho, the weather got shitty. Like, I coulda kept my butt in KS. lol. Thanks for sharing your experience.
lol I totally get where your coming from! I understand that people are under no obligation to welcome me in their group, but the newbie groups make such a big deals about how many friends you'll make , and how much fun you are going to have. Honestly, it really sets an unrealistic expectation for some people. I'm used to the weather being shitty , but I can see how that might really mess up a vacation. lol I'm glad you saved all that money!
Thank you so much for sharing !!! I was supposed to be there but had to make a choice as I was suddenly car-less, the car won, I'm happy I can live vicariously through you and your videos, I will be there next year and hopefully I can meet up with you, I to am an introvert and thankful there are other sisters out there
I’m sorry to hear that, and can totally understand how that goes. I will be looking for you next year! ❤️❤️❤️
Omg Michelle! So happy we met, hanging out with you made it so worth it! 💯 agree with your final thoughts! I will definitely, possibly maybe go with you haha!
Girl, same! If you go,I go too! ❤️❤️❤️