I came across this link from one of the foodie groups that I am part of on Facebook.
It turned out to be an interesting read, and did have some good points in regards to things that food bloggers would appreciate from their hosts, when they are invited to a PR event.
http://campblogaway.com/2011/10/what-bloggers-appreciate-at-pr-events/
There were three areas that I really appreciated.
First, was intros around the room. As the author of that article points out, there are many times that bloggers from a specific area may very well interact on facebook or twitter, but have never actually met face to face. Or like me, have bad memories of those we have only met once or twice in person. So an actual moment of "introductions" is a very good idea.
Second, was the photography set. I have been to events where they do not provide that for bloggers, and those that have. And I have to tell you, if there is a table set up with a nice clean cloth on it, good lighting and maybe a good copy of a menu on it, that really helps us take some nice shots of their product.
Third, was about bringing a significant other. And really that does make a lot of sense. Many of us are involved in either relationships, or marriages. And there are many times that the "significant other" feels left out. This is a very good idea to pass along to those that are hosting a foodie PR event.
One thing I would add that was not in the article, is wi-fi. I personally like to take my laptop with, as I do not own one of those ipad thingies yet (just incase anyone is reading this, and you want to put me on your Christmas list, there ya go!) and really like using my laptop. I can manipulate my photos, upload to my website, build pages, etc... on the fly.
The points made in this article also apply to other events. I was just recently asked to help judge a food event. There were local dignitaries from the news, government, social, chefs, and bloggers. The event co-coordinator really didn't take care of those first two areas I mentioned, but did take care of the third really well. And I had been told there would be wi-fi, but there ended up not being any wi-fi. Now this was their inaugural event, so all in all I think they did a good job.
Make sure to get by http://campblogaway.com and check out their article, and if you are a food blogger you might just want to bookmark their site. There is some really good information there.
When bloggers and event coordinators can come together in a mutually beneficial way, it is a win, win for everyone. Again, this was a good article, not sure I agree 100% with the author in all areas, but definitely some good points.
Enjoy!
Frank
