I took part in my very first Food Blog Camp last week, and I now firmly believe in warm vacations in January, especially when you live in Vermont. I was joking that I got my much-needed dose of Vitamin D for the winter at Grand Velas Resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

I also can’t complain about hanging out on white sand beaches with cold beverages……

Or doing morning laps in this pool. {Can you see why I shrugged off running for the week?}

We were quite busy at Food Blog Camp and didn’t get to hang out at the beach all day. I would have been disappointed but our agenda was awesome. Sessions by leaders like Elise, Jaden, Todd & Diane, David, Matt, and Adam focused on the business of blogging, photography, food styling, writing style, and they even did one-on-one sessions with us. I got some good tips on changing some things with my header/template, using less photos, posting less but with more thought, etc.

I love that all of them spoke about the importance of supporting the food blogging community and being nice to others.

I really enjoyed the session where Adam showed us food styling tips. I don’t usually take the time to style my food, but my goal is to put more attention and care into the process.

I had a blast meeting all of the other bloggers. {I mean, who else would want to chat about blog templates for an hour over dinner?} It was great to get to know people in a fun and relaxed setting. I shared a room with Angela, and I miss her already! {Lucky gal lives in Provence with her Artist and their Scottie dogs.}

Unfortunately, I didn’t take many photos of people.

That’s Angela behind my lemonade and below is the only photo me in the form of a shadow on the beach.

I mostly took food pictures.

Chef demonstrating molecular gastronomy.

Food styling session

Kerrygold butter styling session. {I was excited to take home a few coupons for this butter, because I use a whole lotta butter in my home!}

My breakfast: scrambled eggs, potatoes, tomato, beans, and grapefruit juice.

I can’t wait to take some pictures back home with all my new tips! {Unfortunately, I could do without the below freezing temps.}

Related Food Blog Camp Posts:

• Confections of a Foodie Bride: The Greatest Job In The World {I totally agree.}
• David Lebovitz: Food Blog Camp 2011
• What’s Gaby Cooking: Cancun
• Mommie Cooks: Food Blog Camp 2011
• Acorns & Apples: Mini Mexican Update
• Food Woolf: 10 Lesson From Food Blog Camp 2011