An Unforgettable Culinary Journey: My Experience at the International Food Bloggers Conference in New Orleans

The air buzzed with excitement, charged with the collective energy of food enthusiasts, writers, and photographers. Power strips were aplenty, inviting laptops to be plugged in for a flurry of tweets and note-taking. The speaker lineup was stellar, featuring luminaries like Dianne Jacob, acclaimed author of Will Write for Food, and Andrew Scrivani, the brilliant photographer for the New York Times. And the meals? Oh, the meals were an exquisite showcase of New Orleans’ finest culinary establishments. This, indeed, sounded like a food blogger’s utopia. It was against this vibrant backdrop that the stage was perfectly set for the 2011 International Food Bloggers Conference (IFBC) in the heart of NOLA.

Navigating the Food Blogging World: First Impressions and Community Spirit

As a relatively novice food blogger, having only embarked on this culinary writing adventure a mere eight months prior, I approached my first-ever blogging conference with a mix of apprehension and eager anticipation. Packing my bags for New Orleans, a flutter of nerves settled in. Many attendees boasted years of experience, their blogs well-established pillars in the food community. While most seasoned bloggers wielded professional DSLR cameras and an array of sophisticated lenses, my trusty smartphone remained my primary tool for capturing all my food photos. Doubts crept in: What if I was the newest blogger there? Would I be the only one without a “fancypants” camera? More importantly, would my passion and nascent efforts be taken seriously?

Overcoming Novice Nerves and Finding Belonging

Thankfully, my fears largely melted away as soon as I arrived, (though the camera envy lingered – a professional camera shot straight to the top of my wishlist!). I was utterly overwhelmed by the sheer warmth and open-mindedness of the food blogging community, or at least the segment I encountered at this conference. They extended a welcoming hand to everyone, regardless of their experience level. The very first person I met during check-in was Catherine, a delightful and engaging woman who hadn’t even launched her blog yet, attending with the admirable goal of learning the ropes. Phew, I was definitely not the newest blogger! Throughout the weekend, I connected with bloggers at every conceivable stage of their “blogging career,” each offering unique perspectives and invaluable insights. My conversations alone proved to be an educational experience, reinforcing my desire to upgrade my photography equipment to better capture the beauty of food, just like my fellow bloggers.

This conference wasn’t just about learning; it was about connecting. It showcased the power of community, proving that a shared passion can bring together diverse individuals who are genuinely invested in supporting each other’s growth. The collaborative spirit was palpable, transforming what could have been an intimidating event into an incredibly enriching one. My initial anxieties transformed into a profound sense of belonging, a feeling of being part of something larger and wonderfully supportive.

Here’s a condensed version of the highlights of my unforgettable trip. I hope you’ll feel like you got to come along with me – I truly wish I could have taken all of you (or y’all, as they say down in Louisiana)!

Unlocking Culinary Creativity: Key Learnings from the IFBC Sessions

The weekend schedule was jam-packed with an impressive lineup of speakers, interactive breakout sessions, and captivating culinary demonstrations. A small dilemma arose when two of the sessions I was most keen on attending – “Recipe Writing and Development” versus “Marketing Your Brand” – were scheduled concurrently. After much deliberation, I opted for the recipe writing session, a decision I wholeheartedly stand by. While I can only speculate on the insights missed in the branding session, the distinguished panel leading the recipe workshop was truly phenomenal, delivering content that proved to be the most valuable and impactful of the entire weekend.

Mastering Recipe Writing: Insights from Industry Leaders

The session was expertly moderated by Dianne Jacob, author of the seminal work Will Write For Food and undoubtedly one of the foremost authorities on food writing. She was joined by fellow panelists Deb Perelman, the brilliant mind behind the extremely popular blog Smitten Kitchen, and Kate McDermott, a successful blogger and revered culinary instructor from Art of the Pie. This powerhouse trio guided a captivating discussion that delved into a wide spectrum of food writing related subjects.

We explored crucial topics such as the importance of giving proper credit when adapting an existing recipe, the art of writing for your specific audience, and the strategic placement of photos within blog posts to enhance engagement. The discussion also ventured into the business side of blogging, covering how to develop recipes for external companies, the fair compensation for such work, and how to confidently discuss financial terms with potential collaborators. For those aspiring to transition into paid writing assignments, the panelists offered practical advice on where to seek opportunities, who to approach, and what to realistically expect in terms of payment. A particularly illuminating point revolved around the meticulous process of recipe testing – how many times should a recipe be tested before it’s deemed fit for public consumption on your blog?

A memorable highlight of this session was Deb Perelman’s demonstration of crafting an exquisite peanut butter & jelly sandwich. Following her lead, we all participated in a quick, two-minute exercise to write our own version of the recipe. My personal header notes captured the essence: “Soft, fluffy white bread with an ample amount of stick-to-the-roof-of-your-mouth peanut butter and a sweet layer of strawberry preserves nestled between. Nostalgia in your mouth.” It was a truly fantastic and highly practical session that left everyone feeling inspired and better equipped.

Beyond the Plate: Diverse Blogging Topics Explored

In addition to the recipe writing workshop, I immersed myself in several other insightful sessions, each offering a distinct perspective on the multifaceted world of food blogging. Here are some of the key takeaways:

• Blogging Your Values: This session sparked a lively debate on whether bloggers should solicit donations from their readers to support the time and effort invested in their craft. My personal view, aligning with a significant portion of the discussion, leaned towards maintaining a clear distinction between passion projects and direct monetary requests from readers, advocating for alternative monetization strategies.
• Food Styling & Photography: This workshop emphasized the power of dynamic elements in food photography. We learned that controlled drips, subtle smoke, and artfully arranged spills can all contribute to creating incredibly enticing and visually appealing photos, adding a sense of realism and temptation to the imagery.
• Writing about Food & Culture: This session broadened my understanding of “culture” beyond conventional definitions of ethnicity and religion. It highlighted how food is inextricably linked to regional identity and local customs. As a Buffalonian, for example, our culture dictates a willingness to tailgate in freezing temperatures and a steadfast refusal to serve ranch dressing with Buffalo wings – small, yet significant, culinary rules that define a community.
• Video Blogging: A crucial piece of advice from this session was to avoid trying to replicate a professional cooking show. The focus should be on the food itself and the hands-on process, not the blogger’s face. Audiences want to see the ingredients transform, the techniques in action, and the delicious outcome, making the food the undeniable star of the video.
• Restaurant Reviewing: The cardinal rule here was discretion: never inform the restaurant staff that you are there to write a review. Furthermore, the session stressed the importance of being fully present during the dining experience. Constantly tweeting, typing, or photographing throughout the meal distracts from the true essence of the food and the atmosphere. The key is to stay engaged, savor the moment, and focus on the culinary journey unfolding before you.

Beyond these structured sessions, I was also treated to an enlightening speech on sustainability from Poppy Tooker, a captivating cooking demonstration from Louisiana’s renowned Chef John Folse, and an engaging and thoroughly entertaining address from chef and New Orleans restaurateur John Besh. Their contributions added layers of local flavor and expert knowledge to an already rich program.

A Gastronomic Adventure: Savoring the Flavors of New Orleans

As one might expect, the organizers of IFBC ensured that us foodies were exceptionally well-fed throughout the conference. My culinary journey in New Orleans was punctuated by multiple unforgettable gastronomic highlights.

Unforgettable Meals and Local Delights

The first memorable experience arrived during our “wine hour” on the inaugural day, courtesy of Muriel’s Restaurant. Their mouth-watering appetizers, which included delicate prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and exquisite shrimp and goat cheese crepes, were simply divine. I’m fairly certain I let out an audible moan of pleasure with each bite! While I didn’t manage to capture any photos myself, you can undoubtedly find glimpses of these delectable creations in the conference pictures Foodista later posted here, should your curiosity be piqued.

The second major highlight was Saturday’s lunch, an impressive lineup where local restaurants offered us authentic tastes of “N’awlins” cuisine. It was a true culinary immersion, featuring classic dishes like creamy shrimp ‘n’ grits, robust alligator gumbo, and a plentiful assortment of po’boys. Although I’m not typically a huge seafood enthusiast (as you might notice from my recipes, I don’t often cook with it), I decided to embrace the spirit of adventure and try absolutely everything, even the alligator. It was an experience that expanded my palate and deepened my appreciation for the unique culinary traditions of the region.

Saturday night’s dinner was yet another culinary triumph. The filet mignon was so impeccably cooked that it yielded into tender slices with just the gentle touch of my butter knife. Initially, I found it peculiar that steak knives weren’t provided, but the first cut instantly clarified why they were entirely unnecessary. However, the true star of the meal, for me, was undoubtedly the exquisitely styled white chocolate crème brulee, served with a “blood orange infused Courvoisier coulis.” It was a masterpiece of flavor and presentation. Given the elegant setting, I (barely) managed to resist the urge to lick my plate clean – a testament to its sheer deliciousness.

Exploring the Enchanting City: Beyond the Conference Walls

Prior to this whirlwind weekend, I had never had the pleasure of visiting New Orleans. The city captivated me entirely, and after this brief but intense immersion, I am absolutely determined to return when I have more time to truly explore its depths. NOLA acted as a truly gracious and welcoming host, with many locals involved in the conference expressing their heartfelt gratitude for bringing the event to their vibrant city. As my earlier culinary highlights detailed, I certainly got a magnificent taste of their local cuisine, but with such an astounding array of amazing restaurants, I know there’s so much more to discover. I’m particularly intrigued by Sylvain, a restaurant I didn’t have time to visit but heard deliciously enticing things about from other attendees.

French Quarter Charm and Iconic Landmarks

A brief respite on Saturday afternoon allowed me to venture out and explore a small slice of New Orleans with Lisa from The Cooking Bride and Catherine (whose blog, I hope, is now thriving!). We quickly browsed the eclectic offerings of the French Market, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, before making a determined dash to the legendary Café du Monde. There, we indulged in their iconic beignets, a true culinary delight that are, quite simply, to die for. During our speedy tour, I caught a brief glimpse of the majestic Jackson Square and stepped momentarily inside the awe-inspiring St. Louis Cathedral. Our walk took us past an assortment of captivating street performers and talented artists, whose works adorned the charming cobblestone walkways. Though one encounter with a creepy man dressed as a pirate, who commented on my “treasure chest” (ew!), was certainly a moment I could have done without, it was all part of the unique tapestry of the city.

Despite being a whirlwind, this quick tour offered a fascinating glimpse into the rich culture and undeniable beauty of New Orleans. Our hotel, the historic Hotel Monteleone, was perfectly situated, allowing for easy walks to Bourbon Street and many of NOLA’s major attractions. I left with a strong desire to return and fully immerse myself in some of the city’s celebrated tours, such as the evocative Plantation Tour, the spine-tingling Haunted Tour, the detailed French Quarter Tour, the picturesque Garden District Tour, and even the unique Swamp Tour. Each promises a deeper understanding of this incredible city’s multifaceted history and environment.

Embracing the Night: Bourbon Street and NOLA’s Vibrant Culture

My New Orleans experience also included a taste of the legendary nightlife on Bourbon Street. On Friday night, a company called Nosh – known for their phone app that allows users to rate and review menu items – organized a fantastic cocktail crawl. This tour led us to three distinct bars, each offering a unique slice of N’awlins’ vibrant evening scene. Our first stop was The Old Absinthe House, a tightly packed, wonderfully grungy bar adorned with business cards tacked all over the walls and football helmets dangling from the ceiling, exuding a quirky, historic charm. Next, we transitioned to Arnaud’s French 75, a beacon of sophistication and elegance with its classy cocktail lounge ambiance. Finally, we concluded our crawl at Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse, a cool jazz lounge where I savored a refreshingly light and delicious Pear Flower Martini, accompanied by truly exceptional live music.

It was a delightful culture shock to witness groups of people casually strolling down the cobblestone streets, openly carrying containers of booze. This unique aspect, permitted by local laws, contributed to an incredibly relaxed, fun, and laid-back party atmosphere that is distinctly New Orleans. The night was a perfect blend of historic charm, sophisticated sips, and lively entertainment, showcasing the city’s inimitable spirit after dark.

Personal Triumphs and Unexpected Delights: My IFBC Highlights

Beyond the formal sessions and culinary explorations, my IFBC journey was punctuated by several memorable, unexpected highlights that warrant a special mention:

A Prize-Winning Experience: Tech, Treats, and Treasured Encounters

• A Lucky Win: During our Friday night “Cocktail Crawl,” Nosh hosted an engaging contest for bloggers. The challenge was to sample a signature cocktail at each location and then review it using their mobile app. To my absolute surprise and delight, I was chosen as the winner from among all who completed the task! My prize was a brand new Google Nexus One cell phone. While I couldn’t use it personally at the time, my plan was to sell it on eBay, hopefully converting it into much-needed funds to put towards my coveted new camera. A truly unexpected stroke of luck!
• Fantastic Swag: Much like celebrities attending major events such as the Oscars, we, as VIP food bloggers, were treated to our own “swag bags.” These gift bags were filled with delightful goodies, and my absolute favorite item was the Pecan Bacon Brittle from Leah’s Pralines in New Orleans. It was an incredibly unique and utterly delicious treat that perfectly encapsulated the local flavor.
• Meeting a “Blog Crush”: I might have just coined the term “blog crush,” but I’m certain many of you understand exactly what I mean. I follow numerous food blogs, but a select few truly resonate with me. These are the blogs where I feel a genuine connection with the writer, or I admire their work immensely and eagerly anticipate their new content. Andie Mitchell, from the inspiring blog Can You Stay For Dinner?, is one such blogger for me. Her weight loss journey is profoundly inspirational, and her balanced attitude toward food, life, mindful eating, and exercise is a philosophy I deeply aspire to share. Her writing is not only beautiful but also relatable, honest, and incredibly refreshing. She consistently shares delicious recipes alongside vulnerable, insightful peeks into her life and mindset. For those wondering, YES, she is just as gorgeous in person as she appears online! More importantly, she is genuinely sweet and handled my rather awkward “accosting” in the ladies’ restroom – where I practically gushed about how awesome I thought she was and my aspirations to achieve her level of success – with incredible grace. In fact, she even bought me a drink later that evening! Andie is truly the real deal, and it’s worth noting that she was one of the key individuals who organized this entire conference on behalf of her role at Foodista, a monumental effort for which she deserves immense credit.

Reflections and Future Aspirations: The Enduring Impact of IFBC

I know this has been a comprehensive post, so for those of you who have stuck with me and maintained interest in a non-recipe entry, thank you sincerely! I’ll keep my closing thoughts concise and heartfelt. I arrived at the IFBC with a hopeful longing to belong, to find my place within this vibrant community. I left feeling an overwhelming sense of pride, truly honored to be a part of such an incredible network of passionate individuals. My love for cooking and writing about food was reignited and deepened by spending time with others who wholeheartedly share this very passion.

Moreover, the lively and ongoing “Great Gumbo Debate” that surfaced throughout the weekend – Cajun versus Creole, and what precisely distinguishes the two (the definitive answer being: Creole gumbo includes tomatoes!) – has left a lasting impression. This culinary discussion has inspired me, and I am now actively working on a gumbo recipe that I anticipate sharing with all of you on the blog very soon. It’s a testament to how deeply this conference enriched my understanding and enthusiasm for food.

Oh, and did I mention how much I really, truly want to buy a new camera? The quest continues!