If I could put every experience I had, every conversation, and every laugh or hug here in this post, I would. But it would be a very long post and, of course, I would have discovered something I missed, or several things, thus even a longer post.
This was my second WordCamp Europe, but my first living here in Porto, Portugal. That fact alone, and the love I am getting from the community here, would be worth a post in itself.
The Community
It’s never surprising when I hear from anyone talk their experience at a WordCamp, community and people are always in there, often being what they loved most. And for me there is never an exception. New friends. Connecting with old friends. And so much laughter, and yes, food.
The Sponsors and the Venue
The venue was fantastic. Although I must admit at first it was a bit overwhelming as the sponsors winded around different parts and hallways. Some of the small biz sponsors were concerned being off the beaten path, but that changed quickly, at least for the ones I talked to.
Fact is I started going around to the booths, meeting people, saying hi to others and stopping for so many hugs and conversations, it took me 3 hours just to do that. On the second day, I spent an hour easily just with the Small Biz sponsors.
As I said, there is a lot more I am still digesting and it will also settle in my brain just in time for WCUS. But I do want to thank the organizing team, the volunteers for their hard work in making it so amazing. And of course, the sponsors who make it possible.
I leave you with this. Some great WordPress peeps. (and a few taken by others, plus my mug occasionally).
Oddly, I’m not sure where to begin except the beginning. And if I was to write a post to publish on the 20th anniversary of WordPress, it’s gotta be done here on BobWP.
Also, there lies the fact that I just returned from WordCamp Lisboa where I gave a talk on 20 Years of WordPress community. So it’s a bit on my mind.
George Clooney was named People’s sexiest man alive and I discovered WordPress
These two events have nothing more in common than it was the same year, 2016. I can’t say I think George deserved it, but I had other things on my mind. In fact two things.
First this was the year I became a bit intrigued with blogging. Nothing that had me gasping at the thought of writing posts, but simply a curiosity. At the same time I was trying to step into the world of web design as we had been running a marketing and design company for 13 years. And as much as building a site thrilled me, which was equal to having my hand smashed in a door, I figured there had to be a better way than html and flash.
Time drifted by. Judy had started a blog on Typepad and didn’t give a crap where it was. She just wanted to write. As I eased into the next year, WordPress slipped into my consciousness more and more. It seemed apparent that this thing called WordPress was going to become part of my life one way or another. Seriously though, I didn’t have a clue to what extent.
For the next few years, up to 2010, bit and pieces fell together. I found a theme on a fairly new site called iThemes. The concept of these seemed to be luring me into creating a site for our business that didn’t look like shit. And that’s exactly what WordPress and the Corporate theme from iThemes did for me. Without any freaking code!
The BobWP brand rises out of the ruins of ancient web design
Now I am avoiding going through my 16 years of WordPress history, simply for the reason that I cannot afford to lose you through my years of pivots, twists and turns. It may make you dizzy and I don’t want you vomiting before I wrap this up.
But 2010 was the pivotal moment in my WordPress Story. Why? Well, I had been doing some blogging workshops the two years prior to that year. I was getting my feel for where I need to go with WordPress. I was starting to explore the community more and more from that day in 2006. And I liked what I saw.
So the time came to make the transition from our marketing and design firm, Cat’s Eye Marketing, to something that would let me do my WordPressy thing, whatever that meant and wherever it led.
I got rid of all our our “print” clients or the last few that we were hanging onto. Mentally I told myself I’m going all in on WordPress. Design, training and whatever else would come my way. And it was time to rebrand. Not the business, per se, but myself. I was going to be the brand. So after some contemplation, possible consumption of alcohol and severe mumbling to myself, I came up with BobWP.
Mmmmmmm. It was short and sweet. And the domain was available, go figure. But would people get it? Would someone that doesn’t know what I do, and doesn’t know WordPress find it to be puzzling? Would people say my business is Bobwup?
Honestly, those concerns and questions did not weigh heavily on me. Nor did the fact that I was tying myself into a personal brand, that, well, would likely die with me. I bought the domain, and made it happen.
And you may know the rest, the rest is history.
I’m a WordPresser at heart
I really do love the community. And at this point I’m here to stay. Right now I’m doing what motivates me the most. Connecting people. Raising voices. And meetings some of the coolest people I have ever known, both in these last 16 years and moving forward.
So as much as I find it kind of weird singing Happy Birthday to my dashboard, my computer or any part of the software, or thinking that WordPress could be my grandchild, I will say this.
As I celebrate my own birthday today, many more than 20, I am reflecting on the years WordPress has been there for me. Oddly, I’m not sure where to begin except the beginning. And if I was to write a post to publish on the 20th anniversary of WordPress, it’s gotta be done here on BobWP.
Also, there lies the fact that I just returned from WordCamp Lisboa where I gave a talk on 20 Years of WordPress community. So it’s a bit on my mind.
George Clooney was named People’s sexiest man alive and I discovered WordPress
These two events have nothing more in common than it was the same year, 2016. I can’t say I think George deserved it, but I had other things on my mind. In fact two things.
First this was the year I became a bit intrigued with blogging. Nothing that had me gasping at the thought of writing posts, but simply a curiosity. At the same time I was trying to step into the world of web design as we had been running a marketing and design company for 13 years. And as much as building a site thrilled me, which was equal to having my hand smashed in a door, I figured there had to be a better way than html and flash.
Time drifted by. Judy had started a blog on Typepad and didn’t give a crap where it was. She just wanted to write. As I eased into the next year, WordPress slipped into my consciousness more and more. It seemed apparent that this thing called WordPress was going to become part of my life one way or another. Seriously though, I didn’t have a clue to what extent.
For the next few years, up to 2010, bit and pieces fell together. I found a theme on a fairly new site called iThemes. The concept of these seemed to be luring me into creating a site for our business that didn’t look like shit. And that’s exactly what WordPress and the Corporate theme from iThemes did for me. Without any freaking code!
The BobWP brand rises out of the ruins of ancient web design
Now I am avoiding going through my 16 years of WordPress history, simply for the reason that I cannot afford to lose you through my years of pivots, twists and turns. It may make you dizzy and I don’t want you vomiting before I wrap this up.
But 2010 was the pivotal moment in my WordPress Story. Why? Well, I had been doing some blogging workshops the two years prior to that year. I was getting my feel for where I need to go with WordPress. I was starting to explore the community more and more from that day in 2006. And I liked what I saw.
So the time came to make the transition from our marketing and design firm, Cat’s Eye Marketing, to something that would let me do my WordPressy thing, whatever that meant and wherever it led.
I got rid of all our our “print” clients or the last few that we were hanging onto. Mentally I told myself I’m going all in on WordPress. Design, training and whatever else would come my way. And it was time to rebrand. Not the business, per se, but myself. I was going to be the brand. So after some contemplation, possible consumption of alcohol and severe mumbling to myself, I came up with BobWP.
Mmmmmmm. It was short and sweet. And the domain was available, go figure. But would people get it? Would someone that doesn’t know what I do, and doesn’t know WordPress find it to be puzzling? Would people say my business is Bobwup?
Honestly, those concerns and questions did not weigh heavily on me. Nor did the fact that I was tying myself into a personal brand, that, well, would likely die with me. I bought the domain, and made it happen.
And you may know the rest, the rest is history.
I’m a WordPresser at heart
I really do love the community. And at this point I’m here to stay. Right now I’m doing what motivates me the most. Connecting people. Raising voices. And meetings some of the coolest people I have ever known, both in these last 16 years and moving forward.
So as much as I find it kind of weird singing Happy Birthday to my dashboard, my computer or any part of the software, or thinking that WordPress could be my grandchild, I will say this.
For 13 years I have been going to the smaller and local WordCamps and when the first flagship WCUS started, I jumped on the opportunity and have been lucky enough to attend all of them so far.
Last year, I attended my first WCEU which of course was far from their first. It was an amazing event and even pushed us to move to Porto, which we are doing end of March.
Then comes WCAsia
Judy and I were excited that we would be able to attend the very first WCAsia. Neither of us had been to any part of Asia, so Bangkok was soon to be our first.
Now with all that comes for anyone attending a WordCamp, it can be anything from intimidating, to exciting, or both. I did not know what to expect from this very first flagship event. I knew that it would be good, but I didn’t know I would be blown away.
The event itself
The event was held on the top floor of what’s called Iconsiam. A gigantic mall with a conference center.
And everything about the organization of the event was top notch. The sponsor area was strategically placed. And I personally experienced a volunteer approaching me a few times and asking how I was doing and if they could help with anything. It was amazing.
Contributor day
This was my second contributor day. And it did not disappoint. I spent my time with the Community team and we had several very good discussions. Of course a lot of time was put into the day-long event from both organizers and volunteers. And I had to get a shot of all the team table leads from around the world.
This was just how big contributor day was.
Two days of WordCamp Asia
The minute I walked in that morning and headed straight for the expo area, this is what I saw. It was one of the most busy WordCamps I had ever been to, at least from this perspective. And the vibe in the air is what I believe energized everyone.
The community, the people
There is no single word to describe all the new and old friends that I met with. There were hugs, fist bumps, handshakes, and a lot of conversation. I had the chance to meet people who had literally been reading or listening to my stuff for over a decade. It was incredible humbling.
Although I don’t have these tagged, here is are bunch of selfies and other pics that were taken by others and myself.
Three things really stood out to me
As I mentioned earlier, this was likely the best WordCamp I have been to. If asked, I would have to say that there are three words that come to mind if I was to describe it as a whole.
The energy
I have never been to a WordCamp that had as much energy as I experienced here. I’m sure it was a combination of it finally happening for the Asian community (the first time it was cancelled due to covid), the pride they felt and the fact that so many of the attendees were experiencing their very first WordCamp of any size.
Everyone seemed hungry for community and education. Even the sponsors who frequent many WordCamps, the teams they brought were energized and kept very busy. There was a vibe of this energy with everyone you met.
I know that both my brand BobWP and Do the Woo is very popular in that part of the world. But until you are able to talk, shake hands or hug, you just don’t know. I met strangers and people who I have been connected with online for a decade or more. I was in what felt like hundreds of selfies with friends and new friends. The energy there was contagious and even by day two, it did not let up till closer to the end of the day.
The graciousness
This is probably the most powerful word that stuck with us during our entire stay, both at the event and beyond. We felt welcomed wherever we went. The kindness and consideration of each individual we had contact with and I had contact with at the event, was something that added to the energy I previously talked about.
Culturally, between the greeting with a bow and hands held together, and those who held their hands over their hearts as they approached you, other parts of the world could learn from those warm and loving gestures and how they made us feel each and every time.
The empathy
Empathy has always been a huge part of my life, and I wish more people would naturally feel it in all circumstances.
As I mentioned previously, a lot of the attendees where first time WordCampers. Because of the nature of our business, many are introverts and that first event experience can be overwhelming. But it was different. There was a natural born vibe of empathy coming from everyone.
The vendors talking to community members. People meeting each other for the first time. Questions asked and answered. I would often catch pieces of conversation near me, and more times than not there was a tone of empathy. A tone that said we are the community and here to help each other, no matter who you are, what skill level you have or where you come from. The glass was half full, if not brimming over.
Of course all the other stuff
There was so much to the event, but at the same time the entire experience.
Having a little fun and a good laugh
There is nothing better than a good laugh. You may or may not know Nathan Wrigley from WPBuilds. A great friend of mine and a treasure to the WordPress community. Unfortunately Nathan could not make it, so our friend Mark Westguard from WS Form created a “Nathan head”. And it started popping around here and there at WCAsia. Make sure and click on the images so you can easily find “Where’s Nathan?”
Nom nom
The food was incredible. I’m not a foodie as much as many who travel, but the tastes I experienced are really beyond words. I am still deciding my favorites between Thai, Indian and Japanese. Unfortunately, I am terrible when it comes to taking pictures of our food. In fact, I likely got more from the food served on our flights than at the event.
There was this amazing Espresso Martini that we had, in some kind of a chalice at a restaurant in a local marketplace.
And the best experience I had was a cup of Spicy Coconut Soup with Scallops at a restaurant in the Iconsiam. Unfortunately I didn’t think to take a picture until I was half-finished. Trust me, the untouched presentation was pretty impressive. The taste, out of this world.
Bangkok
And then there was the host city. As mentioned, this was the first time Judy and I have been in Asia. The city was interesting and amazing at the same time. The weather was another thing. We spent an extra three days and found we could spend very little time outside because of the heat and humidity. Average days temp while while there were around 94°F / 34°C. We thought we would either melt away or simple pass out. But between the hotel, a boat ride down the river and a few other places, I do have a few shots to share with you.
What have I left out?
Likely a lot. But still recovering from jet lag and a good chunk of this post was written on the flight back.
If we connected at WCAsia, you are now a big part of one of my favorites memories since using WordPress.
And if you were an organizer, volunteer or sponsor this year, a big thanks and hug for one amazing event. You should be proud of what you did and the community that you brought together.
For 13 years I have been going to the smaller and local WordCamps and when the first flagship WCUS started, I jumped on the opportunity and have been lucky enough to attend all of them so far.
Last year, I attended my first WCEU which of course was far from their first. It was an amazing event and even pushed us to move to Porto, which we are doing end of March.
Then comes WCAsia
Judy and I were excited that we would be able to attend the very first WCAsia. Neither of us had been to any part of Asia, so Bangkok was soon to be our first.Â
Now with all that comes for anyone attending a WordCamp, it can be anything from intimidating, to exciting, or both. I did not know what to expect from this very first flagship event. I knew that it would be good, but I didn’t know I would be blown away.
The event itself
The event was held on the top floor of what’s called Iconsiam. A gigantic mall with a conference center.
And everything about the organization of the event was top notch. The sponsor area was strategically placed. And I personally experienced a volunteer approaching me a few times and asking how I was doing and if they could help with anything. It was amazing.
Contributor day
This was my second contributor day. And it did not disappoint. I spent my time with the Community team and we had several very good discussions. Of course a lot of time was put into the day-long event from both organizers and volunteers. And I had to get a shot of all the team table leads from around the world.
This was just how big contributor day was.
Two days of WordCamp Asia
The minute I walked in that morning and headed straight for the expo area, this is what I saw. It was one of the most busy WordCamps I had ever been to, at least from this perspective. And the vibe in the air is what I believe energized everyone.
The community, the people
There is no single word to describe all the new and old friends that I met with. There were hugs, fist bumps, handshakes, and a lot of conversation. I had the chance to meet people who had literally been reading or listening to my stuff for over a decade. It was incredible humbling.
Although I don’t have these tagged, here is are bunch of selfies and other pics that were taken by others and myself.
Three things really stood out to me
As I mentioned earlier, this was likely the best WordCamp I have been to. If asked, I would have to say that there are three words that come to mind if I was to describe it as a whole.
The energy
I have never been to a WordCamp that had as much energy as I experienced here. I’m sure it was a combination of it finally happening for the Asian community (the first time it was cancelled due to covid), the pride they felt and the fact that so many of the attendees were experiencing their very first WordCamp of any size.
Everyone seemed hungry for community and education. Even the sponsors who frequent many WordCamps, the teams they brought were energized and kept very busy. There was a vibe of this energy with everyone you met.
I know that both my brand BobWP and Do the Woo is very popular in that part of the world. But until you are able to talk, shake hands or hug, you just don’t know. I met strangers and people who I have been connected with online for a decade or more. I was in what felt like hundreds of selfies with friends and new friends. The energy there was contagious and even by day two, it did not let up till closer to the end of the day.
The graciousness
This is probably the most powerful word that stuck with us during our entire stay, both at the event and beyond. We felt welcomed wherever we went. The kindness and consideration of each individual we had contact with and I had contact with at the event, was something that added to the energy I previously talked about.
Culturally, between the greeting with a bow and hands held together, and those who held their hands over their hearts as they approached you, other parts of the world could learn from those warm and loving gestures and how they made us feel each and every time.
The empathy
Empathy has always been a huge part of my life, and I wish more people would naturally feel it in all circumstances.
As I mentioned previously, a lot of the attendees where first time WordCampers. Because of the nature of our business, many are introverts and that first event experience can be overwhelming. But it was different. There was a natural born vibe of empathy coming from everyone.
The vendors talking to community members. People meeting each other for the first time. Questions asked and answered. I would often catch pieces of conversation near me, and more times than not there was a tone of empathy. A tone that said we are the community and here to help each other, no matter who you are, what skill level you have or where you come from. The glass was half full, if not brimming over.
Of course all the other stuff
There was so much to the event, but at the same time the entire experience.
Having a little fun and a good laugh
There is nothing better than a good laugh. You may or may not know Nathan Wrigley from WPBuilds. A great friend of mine and a treasure to the WordPress community. Unfortunately Nathan could not make it, so our friend Mark Westguard from WS Form created a “Nathan head”. And it started popping around here and there at WCAsia. Make sure and click on the images so you can easily find “Where’s Nathan?”
Nom nom
The food was incredible. I’m not a foodie as much as many who travel, but the tastes I experienced are really beyond words. I am still deciding my favorites between Thai, Indian and Japanese. Unfortunately, I am terrible when it comes to taking pictures of our food. In fact, I likely got more from the food served on our flights than at the event.
There was this amazing Espresso Martini that we had, in some kind of a chalice at a restaurant in a local marketplace.
And the best experience I had was a cup of Spicy Coconut Soup with Scallops at a restaurant in the Iconsiam. Unfortunately I didn’t think to take a picture until I was half-finished. Trust me, the untouched presentation was pretty impressive. The taste, out of this world.
Bangkok
And then there was the host city. As mentioned, this was the first time Judy and I have been in Asia. The city was interesting and amazing at the same time. The weather was another thing. We spent an extra three days and found we could spend very little time outside because of the heat and humidity. Average days temp while while there were around 94°F / 34°C. We thought we would either melt away or simple pass out. But between the hotel, a boat ride down the river and a few other places, I do have a few shots to share with you.
What have I left out?
Likely a lot. But still recovering from jet lag and a good chunk of this post was written on the flight back.
If we connected at WCAsia, you are now a big part of one of my favorites memories since using WordPress.
And if you were an organizer, volunteer or sponsor this year, a big thanks and hug for one amazing event. You should be proud of what you did and the community that you brought together.
I have always found this transition a bit odd and all of the anticipation around it. How so many of us have this cut off that is dictated by a day of the year. Within 24 hours a new future is on the horizon.
On the other hand it’s nice to have a beginning and end, no matter how enigmatic is may be.
A look back
If you have followed me for more than a year, you know I am not one to write posts on the reflection of the past year. There’s something in me that is always living for the moment and looking at what’s to come.
Sure, I reflect on things. Think about moments in the past as well as how they may affect the future. But sorry to say, I never these down.
If you have been connected with me over the last 12 months you know the story.
If not, you likely are more interested in what is to come vs. what happened the past.
The next 12 months
Well, where do I start? Or should I? On the business side at Do the Woo there is a lot going on this year. Of course, those will be announced in bits and pieces. I have a tendency to organically shift and shape things as the days past. So what I may say today about three months from now, well, let’s just keep that bundled for three months from now.
What if I was to say this coming year is an exciting one? Well, I think a lot of people will express themselves that way. And often it’s just the fact that it is a new year.
But I can truly say that from the depths of my soul. Our relocation coming up to Porto, Portugal is not only exciting, but a life-changer. Moving to a new country, assimilating ourselves into a new culture, I cannot even begin to share with you the excitement we are feeling at this stage in our lives. But rest assure, you can follow all of that over on my Porto blog.
So as much as you may have anticipated a long post about what has been and what will be, sorry to disappoint you.
But I do want to say that if you have read this, I appreciate you as a reader. I hope you are looking forward to this next year as much as we are.
I have always found this transition a bit odd and all of the anticipation around it. How so many of us have this cut off that is dictated by a day of the year. Within 24 hours a new future is on the horizon.
On the other hand it’s nice to have a beginning and end, no matter how enigmatic is may be.
A look back
If you have followed me for more than a year, you know I am not one to write posts on the reflection of the past year. There’s something in me that is always living for the moment and looking at what’s to come.
Sure, I reflect on things. Think about moments in the past as well as how they may affect the future. But sorry to say, I never these down.
If you have been connected with me over the last 12 months you know the story.
If not, you likely are more interested in what is to come vs. what happened the past.
The next 12 months
Well, where do I start? Or should I? On the business side at Do the Woo there is a lot going on this year. Of course, those will be announced in bits and pieces. I have a tendency to organically shift and shape things as the days past. So what I may say today about three months from now, well, let’s just keep that bundled for three months from now.
What if I was to say this coming year is an exciting one? Well, I think a lot of people will express themselves that way. And often it’s just the fact that it is a new year.
But I can truly say that from the depths of my soul. Our relocation coming up to Porto, Portugal is not only exciting, but a life-changer. Moving to a new country, assimilating ourselves into a new culture, I cannot even begin to share with you the excitement we are feeling at this stage in our lives. But rest assure, you can follow all of that over on my Porto blog.
So as much as you may have anticipated a long post about what has been and what will be, sorry to disappoint you.
But I do want to say that if you have read this, I appreciate you as a reader. I hope you are looking forward to this next year as much as we are.
I have purposely chosen to not revisit the actual message delivered at State of the Word. There has been a lot already said and I don’t really need to add to that pile. In fact, I have listed a few posts at the end here that will give you that overview.
I arrived in New York City late Tuesday evening. The SOTW was not beginning till noonish on Thursday. But I was pretty sure Wednesday would be my “hang out with friends and community day”. Of course I was not disappointed.
Community is where community goes
Mid-morning on Wednesday, I ran into Michelle Frechette and her friend Julia in the hotel lobby. Hungry and in need of caffeine, I joined them for a bit of time at Starbucks. Returning to the hotel, we ran into Rich Tabor, and set a time to find a restaurant and have lunch. The four of us ended up at an Italian place, which would be the first of two that day.
Then came a break before I met Robert Jacobi, Rich Tabor at Nancy’s Whiskey Bar across the street. Where eventually we were joined by Robbie Adair and Bud Kraus. Although we didn’t get a group shot then, Robert did grab a shot of Rich and myself.
Do the Woo Dinner at State of the Word 2023 with Michelle Frechette, Allie Nimmons, Bud Kraus, Nev Harris, Aaron Campbell, Rich Tabor, Timothy Jacobs, BobWP, Robbie Adair, Julie and Ryan Marks.
Following that feast, a few of us ended up at the Rockefeller Center.
Michelle, Nev, Ryan, Julia, Robbie and BobWP
And that was the day of true community. Friends coming together and just simply having a great time.
State of the Word Day
Of course the day of the State of the Word has it’s fair share of community. From a casual get together at a cafe beforehand, to the event itself and rounding that off with a small dinner with Robert Jacobi, Robbie Adair and Nev Harris.
The entire day, day two, filled with community. Old and new friends.
Conversations at SOTW
I cannot possibly share with you the conversations I had at the event, primarily because I had too many and cannot recall each one. But a couple of instances stick in my mind.
First, I met Zandy Ring, COO at Tumblr. This was not only a fun conversation but also very timely as I dive into the Tumblr world as BobWP. It’s been an interesting platform to sort out. And the insights that Zandy shared with me confirmed I was doing the right thing by taking my time and finding my groove there.
Secondly, I had a chance to chat with Matt Mullenweg a couple of times. The best thing about the SOTW event if Matt is in his element there. The smaller crowd gives it a much more relaxed feeling and I sense that he is truly enjoying himself.
And the cool thing. There would never be the opportunity where I would be able to share with him the new stuff we are doing over at Do the Woo in the new year. But this event gave me that chance. And even better, he loved what we were going to be doing.
Now with both of these conversations, I was fortunately to be given the opportunity to have them. But I did for two simple reasons.
The WordPress community is incredible, no matter who you meet
I am extremely fortunate to have such amazing sponsors for Do the Woo that made it possible for me to represent DTW at the event.
Learn more about the State of the Word
Matt’s SOTW was great and there was some really cool stuff he shared. But I am not into reinventing the wheel, so here are a few options for you to catch up with it if you haven’t already.
