what’s up in omaha lately: lovestruck, barcamp, and other fun goings-on

1. I want to remind all my local engaged (or engaged-to-be-engaged) readers about Lovestruck Omaha, an inspirational wedding show created for the modern couple. We’ll have tons of awesome unconventional vendors, decorating and food ideas, and a dance party to wrap it all up at the end of the night. I’m looking forward to it! Omaha really needed something like this. Really fresh ideas.

Photo from Brittany Mascio

2. We wrapped our fifth annual Barcamp Omaha two weeks ago. It took place in a new venue and we had a new planning team, and a lot *could* have gone wrong since there were so many changes I guess but I think it was absolutely our best year yet. There was so much diversity in the attendees–we sold out at 250 barcampers, and over half of them were first-time attendees. About half were also women.

Traditionally at Barcamps in Omaha in the past, and at most events around the world, there’s a heavy tech angle–most talks have a programming or dev slant to them, and the crowd is full of the usual suspects. This year, we heard a fascinating variety of talks covering topics from old-timey radio shows to how to stop working with assholes. I learned a lot and I felt really proud knowing that so many people made new valuable connections and relationships.

3. Alice and I went to watch the Omaha Area Youth Orchestras play an outdoor concert this weekend. It was Alice’s first concert and first outdoor festival situation. We brought a big blanket, some animal buddies, and a bag of stove-popped popcorn and almonds. We sat in the front by the stage and Alice danced the whole time. I think I’ll hold that night we had together as one of my fondest memories.

4. Omaha Fashion Week was a few weeks ago as well! We had a big runway-side party for Hello Holiday, with tons of awesome friends and supporters, gift bags, wine. It rained that night so OFW went to Plan B and put a tent over the runway, creating a very intimate atmosphere. We did a writeup about the night on our Hello Holiday blog, so check that out if you want!