FAQ

What is The SoCal Social? 
The SoCal Social is a fun social event for bloggers in the Southern California area.  Some fun shopping, mingling and dinner in The Orange Circle in Historic Downtown area in the City of Orange.  

When and where?
The SoCal Social is October 19th in the Historic Downtown area in the City of Orange, CA

Specifically, what do we do there?
Upon arriving at the registration area, you'll receive an empty swag bag and a map of stores participating in our "Swag Walk".  Think of the Swag Walk like Trick-or-Treating... you get treats and swag as you visit the shops.  You are free to go at your own pace and you'll have about 3.5 hours to complete the Swag Walk.  We end our walk at Avila's El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant for dinner.  At dinner we'll have prizes, giveaways, and will hear from a special keynote speaker.  

Is this a conference?  Are there classes or panels?
No.  This is just a fun social event. We would love for you to be able to get to know as many of your fellow bloggers as possible. These connections make blogging so much more fun! We want to allow you plenty of time for chatting so we encourage you to change up your groups and meet new people in the shops and at dinner.

What if we run out of time during the Swag Walk - or have too much time?
We do our best to figure out a time that is "just about right" for everyone. There are lots of shops and variety - so make sure you pace yourself and leave time to hit all the highlights on the map we provide. If you're not into browsing, there are several cafes in the Circle that are great places to sit, have a cup of coffee and get to know some new friends.

Can we get to the restaurant early?
On your schedule we will note the time for arrival at the restaurant. Prior to that time we will be setting up the room for dinner and the remainder of the event so we will not be able to let you in the room early.

Can we go in all the shops in the Orange Circle, or just the ones on the Swag Walk?
Please feel free to go into any of the shops along the route, whether they are participating shops or not.  Max out your credit cards, or don't spend a dime... it's totally up to you.  It's all about having fun and hanging out.

Why were some of the items on the Swag Walk so small?
The shop owners distribute the Swag items for us, so we need to make sure they are a manageable size for them.  Also, we figure that you'd rather not haul heavier items around with you as you shop, so we opt for lighter items on the Swag Walk. We want to make sure you are able to carry items that you purchase as well - there are such fabulous shops in the Circle!  Don't worry, you'll get lots more at dinner.

So we get even more swag at the dinner?
Yes. The Swag Walk is a fun ice-breaker, designed to give you an activity where you can visit cool shops, get fun treats, and connect with other bloggers.  Another big swag bag and raffle prizes will be waiting for you at dinner.

Is this only open to creative bloggers?
This event is definitely geared towards creative & lifestyle bloggers, but it is open to anyone who would like to attend.

I have a baby I need to bring along - is that ok?
The dinner room is only designed to hold a limited number of people. Unfortunately that means we cannot accommodate high chairs or strollers. If you have a little one that can be carried the entire time, and held during dinner, then you may bring them along. Please let us know if that is the case.

I don't live in Southern California... can I still attend?
Absolutely! 

Why are such a low number of tickets released?
We want to keep this event easy and affordable, and all within walking distance.  The size of the restaurant dictates the number of tickets available.  We either raise ticket prices or keep the event small.  We opted for a smaller event. This also makes it easier to get to know more people at the event.

What does the price of my ticket include?
Tickets are $50 and include participation in the Swag Walk, shopping, visiting with fellow bloggers, a full Mexican dinner buffet, dessert, more swag, and the opportunity to win some great prizes.   It does not cover transportation, parking or hotel accommodations.   

What should I wear?
That's completely up to you, but above all else, wear comfortable shoes!!  To get an idea of what people wear, you can check out the wrap-ups from previous years.

When do tickets go on sale?
August 27th at 10:00 am PST