Socializing at the SoCal Social

Question:  What do you get when you put 75 extremely crafty people together, give each of them a large swag bag and set them loose in a vintage, cute little town of Orange?

Answer:  You get the SoCal Social.

Summary:  A few weeks ago, I attended my first blogger event.  The SoCal Social is the brain child of Beverly from Flamingo Toes and Viv of The V Spot.  These two fabulous and creative women organized a fun day of friendship, shopping, food, and giveaways.  I knew I'd be in for a fun day, especially as my older, daughter, Elysa, decided to join me. 

After making several new friends [Special Shout Outs to Maryann, Emmy and Jenn], the five of us followed the yellow brick road map which helped guide us around the old town of Orange.  The shops made us feel very welcome!

 

 

Here's Elysa taking a photo of a table full of beautiful items!

 

While visiting many adorable shops,

I eyed this vintage dress that followed me home. 

One of the participating shops, The Bruery, provided cheese & salami samples.  Of course, we needed something cold to wash them down.  Elysa charmed the bartender, Greg, who presented us with samples of their craft beer! 

The day culminated at a local restaurant where we enjoyed a delicious dinner and desserts.

We were treated to a special guest, Mark Montano, who spoke about his creative journey of his dream and reality of living in New York to a career in fashion design and crafting.  We each received his new book, "The Big Ass Book of Bling."  Mark is so sweet, good-looking and passionate about his love of crafts.

We had a wonderful time at the SoCal Social, and are looking forward to attending next year!