WordCamp US, one of the biggest WordPress conferences in the world, was held this last week at the Gaylord National Resort at the National Harbor in Maryland, just outside of Washington DC.
This annual pilgrimage (for many), is a special time of the year for WordPress enthusiasts, developers, and vendors.
Meeting like-minded individuals, sharing experiences and learning from each other are some of the highlights. The Gaylord was gorgeous facility and had ample room to fit the 2000 WordPressers.
The Essence of WordCamp US
Despite not being in DC, WordCamp US did its best to create an atmosphere that combined information and networking.
- An opportunity to connect with WordPress enthusiasts from across the globe. People flew all the way in from Europe, Asia and even Australia.
- Lots of vendors were there, and at may booths you could get a sneak-peek into the upcoming trends.
- There were insightful sessions from industry-leading professionals and WordPress experts. Including an opening keynote from the NASA web team who used WordPress to redesign the NASA website. That was really neat.
Reflecting on the Sessions
The sessions, as expected, were full of practical tips, valuable insights, and forward-thinking strategies. Each explored an aspect of WordPress, from development and design to marketing and content creation.
- Engaging user experiences: One of the highlights of the sessions was focused on how to create engaging user experiences on WordPress with both the native editor and plugins/page builders.
- Security: With cyber threats on the rise, there was lots of discussions about how to keep your site secure. Even if it wasn’t the main topic, it came up in passing.
- SEO-focused content creation: As content remains king, the SEO-focused sessions were particularly insightful, outlining the best practices for creating content that ranks. I love how even in a Web design/development-centric conference SEO is still discussed. It makes sense, but I’m always pleased to see it talked about.
Networking and Vendor Interactions
There were plenty of time for participants to interact and expand their network.
- The vendor booths were in a expo hall and the swag, as we all know the most important part LOL, was plentiful. The only downside was that the vendors weren’t close to where the sessions were held so that was a gripe of many.
- Industry leaders and WordPress enthusiasts had engaging one-on-one conversations. Matt Mullenweg, the co-founder of the WordPress project was very visible this year and engaged with attendees quite a bit.
- The afterparties were lots of fun. I went to a dinner with A2 Hosting and Post Status at Bond 45, a steak house just down the street from the Gaylord Resort venue. My steak was amazing and the drinks were a bit too plentiful.
- There were a number of parties held by vendors. I only made it to the pride party, which was fantastic and inclusive. I had a buddy go to the WP Engine event at Top Golf and it went from 7:30pm to close to 1am.
- The main after party was at The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in DC, and though “dry” it was a great time.
A Not-so-Washington Venue
Although not located in Washington DC, the venue added to the charm of WordCamp US. It was also livestreamed for those who didn’t make it in person.
Wrapping Up
WordCamp US was undeniably a memorable experience and a treasure trove of learning for all WordPress enthusiasts.
As I wrap up this recap, the essence of WordCamp US can be summed up as a perfect blend of learning, networking, and fun.
There was some controversy, which I’m choosing to leave out as to not take away from the overall greatness of the event. If you do some searching you can find it out.
Also, Covid did rear its ugly head the days after WordCamp. So far everyone who caught it is doing fine and dealing with it. It’s hard to have an event now without a risk, especially with 2000 people in attendance.
Overall it’s safe to say that this event has left all attendees eagerly looking forward to what’s in store for WordCamp US next year!
