Disclaimer: Please note that I paid a conference fee and received a discounted stay at the Beaches Turks and Caicos resort. All flights were paid for by ourselves.
What comes to mind when you hear Social Media on the Sand?
For me, it meant fun in the sun on a beach while learning new things about social media. I was not wrong. I recently attended the 4th annual Social Media on the Sand conference in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos in the Caribbean at the Beaches Resort.
It was my first time attending this conference, so I was excited because I have never:
- Visited a Beaches Resort.
- Experienced an all-inclusive resort.
- Attended the Social Meda on the Sand conference.
There were a few of my friends that had attended the conference before and stressed that it was something I didn’t want to miss. You have to apply to attend or be invited.
Once you’re invited you can come solo, bring a +1, or your whole family. It’s not free, but it’s greatly discounted. I do mean greatly discounted. We honestly paid more for our plane tickets than the cost to stay at the resort.
Being that this was my first Social Media on the Sand conference, I just brought my husband. I didn’t know what to expect and when I wasn’t in a session, I wanted to make sure we got some good quality time alone.
Here are some fun facts about the conference and a few great reasons you should go if you can:
The Agenda
Although this conference was 4 nights and 5 days, there was only 1 full day of sessions. The conference was held from Wednesday thru Saturday. Each day we had something to do but #BeachesMoms still gave us hours of alone time to explore the island.
On our first night, Wednesday, we took a boat ride on a catamaran cruise. It was amazing. On the trip, we had a DJ, snacks and got a beautiful view of the island.
Thursday, I learned how to give myself a detox facial at the Red Lane Spa on the property. Friday, was the actual full day of sessions. We were at the conference from 8-5pm. Saturday, everyone volunteered at a local school to paint the building and play area through the Sandals Foundation.
The Speakers
The speakers were amazing. I learned new things about Sandals & Beaches in addition to hearing women entrepreneurs share how they rock out being business owners & moms.
This year’s speakers included:
- Maria Bailey, CEO of BSM Media
- Debbie-Ann White, SVP of Public Relations at Unique Vacations, Inc.
- Sam Champion, retired weather anchor from Good Morning America and The Weather Channel
- Adam Stewart, Deputy Chairman of Sandals, Intl.
- Holly Robinson Peete, actress and autism advocate
- Alli Webb, owner of Dry Bar
- Rebecca Minkoff
- Corrine Travis, CJ Affiliate
- Michelle Vincent, Facebook Industry Manager
- Kristin Castillo, VP of Strategy at Trendera
After the in session conference, we retreated to Cabana’s on the beach to continue the discussions on different topics.
The SWAG
The swag experience was one of a kind. The sponsors/brands were very generous and engaging the entire conference. We entered a “Swag Bungalow” where we met with different brands and received items. We were also surprised nightly with room drops.
The All Inclusive Experience
From the moment we got off of the plane, everything was taken care of. I promise being treated like royalty will spoil you. This was my first time at an all-inclusive resort. I heard that everything was included, but getting to experience it was a different experience.
We enjoyed all types of delish food, unlimited drinks, and resort excursions that were all included. We never pulled out our credit card. I think going forward, this is the way I want to vacation.
Time Alone
Yes, this was an official conference, but I really enjoyed that we were given time to enjoy with our family. During my free time, my husband and I parasailed for the first time.
I was so nervous, but it felt good to try something new with him. We spent time with friends on the beach, enjoyed a night time swim in the pool and explored the island.
The Bloggers!
Meeting new bloggers and connecting with old bloggers was a big highlight. Making new friends with people that understand what you do always create a lasting connection.
These women were from all over the United States, Canada, and Jamaica. I had time to sit and network with many women and learn new techniques and create new friendships.
I had the time of life at this conference. My husband and I definitely plan to return to this resort and next time bring our children. If you like to experience paradise, check out Beaches!
