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unexpectedreylo · 5 years

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The Straight Dope On Galaxy’s Edge

I went to Disneyland Aug. 7-10 for my birthday because where else would I rather be than in the GFFA?

It’s amazing! It’s like a Ralph McQuarrie painting come to life. Even though it is “set” during the ST, it tries to have a little bit of something for every Star Wars fan. And maybe even for your friends and family who aren’t into it as much as you are.

Don’t believe the hype that it’s not doing well. Disneyland has had annual passholder blackout dates to keep attendance below crazy levels and while overall attendance is down 3% (probably due to fears of massive crowds as well as higher ticket prices), I can safely tell you that there was a great deal of interest in Galaxy’s Edge by attendees. On Thursday and Saturday, everyone made a beeline for it just as the park opened in the morning. I was doing the Griswold family dash to Wally World myself, power walking the best my middle aged/out-of-shape self could as kids and teenagers went past me. Requiring reservations for Oga’s Cantina and Savi’s Workshop (where you build the lightsabers) prevented hellacious hours-long lines for those attractions. Smuggler’s Run has had waits as long as three hours over the course of the summer. It reached its 1 millionth rider in mid-July. On Thursday, the longest I wait I saw was 80 or 90 minutes and that was on a weekday blackout date. The section of the park was busy both Thursday and Saturday mornings. For what it’s worth, it seemed like half the people at Disneyland overall had some kind of Star Wars t-shirt on. It was like a Celebration with rides.

Attendance isn’t the only metric. What really matters is whether people are spending money there and I can vouch that people were buying. The lightsabers are $200 a pop alone. There were merchandise I wanted to get but weren’t available, such as the japor snippet necklace and the Rey vest (sizes XS-L were sold out). White kyber crystals are still sold out. I saw signs everywhere limiting certain items to one per person. People were packing the cantina and all of them got drinks. Ronto’s Roasters did pretty steady business.

Just bear in mind that parks play the long game and it probably serves Disney’s long term interests to allow paying attendees and not just local APs the chance to experience Galaxy’s Edge. Hell crowds would just make people angry they spent all of that money and couldn’t see or do a thing.

Now, here’s where I’m going to dish some advice to those of you who are planning to go either to the one in Anaheim or at WDW. The WDW version is at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, so some of this won’t apply to the Mouse House East but I think a lot of it will.

Tip #1--Your best bet is on a weekday, first thing in the morning as the park opens. If it’s an AP blackout date, that’s even better. Remember, Disney is like con...you don’t come to sleep.

Tip #2--Stay at a Disney hotel to take advantage of Magic Hour. I know, I know, they’re $$$ while there are many cheaper alternatives but if you really want to beat the crowds this is the way to do it. Galaxy’s Edge will not be accessible during Magic Hour (at DL it’s just Fantasyland that’s open) but you can start lining up at the ropes in front of Frontierland and Adventureland. While GE at DL has three entrances, they will send you the looong way through New Orleans Square and Critter Country when the park fully opens. If you’re at WDW, stay at the Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach, or Pop Century resorts...they’re the ones closest to Hollywood Studios though you’ll still have to take the Disney bus to get there. (The Swan and the Dolphin are on Disney property but are NOT Disney resort hotels, so no Magic Hour.)

Another perk to staying at a Disney hotel now is that as part of our travel package we all got free exclusive Galaxy’s Edge lanyards with a pin!

Tip #3--Ladies...I think with the exception of the First Order boutique and the cosplay items, I liked the a lot of t-shirts and stuff for kids more than the ones for adults! So if you are on the small side, you might be able to fit in the bigger kids’ wear. For instance I got a great Black Spire hoodie for $40 at Jewels of Bith...the adult hoodie was like 20 bucks more. My mom liked it so much she got one for herself and my niece. Note: the merch you buy inside GE don’t say “Galaxy’s Edge” or have Star Wars logos. If you want those, you’ll have to buy them in the regular Disney stores.

Tip #4--Oga’s Cantina. Reservations are required so as soon as you plan your trip, go on the DL/WDW app and reserve right away. I think now you can reserve up to 60 days in advance...if not, definitely 14 days in advance. You are NOT guaranteed a seat. You are given an area to hang out in (at the bar, at a table, or at a booth) and you are to remain there. You can’t run and grab a booth for instance if a party leaves. Your limit is 45 minutes and two drinks. I will say though that service is fast (I guess most drinks are pre-mixed) and in our case, we didn’t even need to stay the entire 45 minutes. I got the Cliff Dweller (I don’t drink) while my brother got whatever they call the beer and my dad got the teal-colored “white” wine. My older niece got the blue milk with the Bantha cookie. She gave rave reviews for both. The younger niece got the stuff that came from the creature tank. It sounds gross but she liked it. There are no restrooms inside the cantina btw.

Tip #5--Savi’s Workshop. Again, reservations are required and they should be made as soon as possible. The lightsabers are $199 and you pay when you check in. The day I went they were running behind, so while my reservation was at 3:00, I didn’t actually get in the building until like 3:30. The process takes about 20 minutes. You are ushered into a shop and there’s a whole narrative and everything. The “gatherers” have harvested scrap metal and kyber crystals and crafted lightsaber parts. Based on the “theme” you selected at check in (stuff like “power and control” or “peace and justice”) you are given trays with parts to choose from and a crystal (blue, green, purple, or red). Your guides are in character and sometimes it’s all earnest af, but then again so are the movies. I found it surprisingly easy to put these together. The “gatherers” put the blade in for you then you step forward, turn on the switch, and yay, you got a new lightsaber! You get to wave them in the air and stuff. On the way out you are given a free sheath bag to put it in. If you don’t want to lug your new lightsaber on a plane or have to check it in, you can have it shipped home for $17 at the First Order boutique (though I don’t know if other stores will do it for you too).

Tip #6--Smugglers’ Run. The best time to go on the ride, since to date there are no fastpasses, is right when the park opens. Thursday morning at 8:10 a.m. had the shortest wait, 15 minutes but I pretty much walked right onto the ride. The next best option is going single rider, which is what my brother and I did the second time we went on it. It was about half the regular wait time. Have your camera ready to get that chess table photo op because you will get called right away for your “boarding group” (assigned with a color). Two pilot, two shoot, two “engineer.” The light up buttons make it easy to figure out what you have to do but accuracy is tough. I piloted the first time, shot the second time. The good news is I did not crash either time. Which is miraculous.

Tip #7--Other food and drink. Unfortunately I didn’t get the opportunity to eat at Docking Bay 7 or Ronto Rosters. I’m told the breakfast wrap at Ronto Roasters is phenomenal. Don’t expect typical Disney fare in Galaxy’s Edge; the closest it comes is the Star Wars popcorn. No galactic churros or Mickey ice cream pops here. In fact an in-character cast member and Chewbacca were really curious about our churros when we went into Galaxy’s Edge on Saturday. My younger niece even tried to give Chewie a piece to try, LOL. What you can get is blue milk and green milk. We got one of each on Thursday to try. Both were better than the notoriously sweet butterbeers at Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Tasty and refreshing on a hot day. But I kinda think we all leaned more toward the blue milk. In fact the nieces insisted on another round of blue milk when we returned on Saturday. You can get the Aurebesh label soda and water at a variety of stands and at Docking Bay 7. (Maybe Ronto Roasters too.) They’re pricey but everything at Disney is 30-50% more expensive than they would be anywhere else. And the Aurebesh bottles make for low cost souvenirs.

Tip #8--Characters. Chewbacca and FO stormtroopers were around quite a bit. I saw Vi Moradi twice and Kylo a couple of times (Chewie and Kylo get treated like rock stars), but I totally missed Rey. My parents saw her though. Characters here do NOT sign autographs, something my nieces found out the hard way when they tried to get them from stormtroopers. LOL.

Tip #8--Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities. This is where you buy your holocrons and loose kyber crystals (only with purchase of a holocron). They were still out of white crystals so I bought a red one. When you put a red crystal in your Jedi holocron, Yoda warns you about the dark side. Bonus: the kyber crystals you buy here can be put in your lightsaber from Savi’s Workshop. So if you buy both a holocron and a lightsaber, make sure you get a different color crystal for each so you can switch them around! Here you’ll find a lot of Jedi cosplay, Leia cosplay, and the headdress Padme used in AOTC as part of her peasant disguise, among other goodies. The stained glass portraits of Leia and Queen Amidala were stunning but they were kinda big and 95 bucks apiece. They had a set of ceramic busts of everyone’s favorite mother-daughter duo for $55 but I didn’t feel like lugging those around at the time. For older Star Wars fans, this is probably going to be your favorite store.

Tip #9--Other merchandise/shopping. The First Order boutique is located right next to Kylo’s parked shuttle and across from the “milk” stand. The Resistance has two carts at the entrance in front of the (unopened) Rise of the Resistance ride. I kinda like that the underground Resistance is on the “outskirts” of the outpost while the conquering FO is right there in the center of town. Makes sense for the narrative. Savi’s and the store where you can build a droid (no reservation necessary...this was a hit with kids) are next to each other. Everything else is in the marketplace in a series of smallish stalls. Keep an eye out because nobody has signs. (Note: layout might be slightly different at WDW.)

Tip #10--Wear a hat and sunscreen. The marketplace is the only area in GE with shade. The rest of it is out in the sun, so be prepared because in CA it’s easy to get a sunburn and in FL, it’s easier still. Bring a rain poncho if you’re at WDW because of those hit and run thunderstorms.

Tip #11-- You don’t have to be a passive tourist. Some cast members get into it more than others but you’ll get more out of Galaxy’s Edge if you play along. As Star Wars fans, you’ll get the lingo (for instance they do call kids “younglings” and talk about money as credits) so that’s no problem. When you’re inside of Galaxy’s Edge you can go on the DL/WDW app and activate your “datapad” and scan stuff at various locations. My brother did this with his phone while we were poking around and you can earn rankings and stuff within the different factions.

Overall I think what Galaxy’s Edge is now is just the beginning. Rise of the Resistance opens this winter at both parks and from what I’ve heard, more attractions and shows are in the works. Personally, I’d love a hair braiding station where you can get your hair done like Leia or Rey or Battle of Geonosis Padme since that’s probably her easiest style! I want a Reylo night time show! But it’s absolutely worth visiting as it is. You can easily spend half the day or longer there, depending on how much you want to do. Few Star Wars or Disney experiences will ever top entering Galaxy’s Edge, huffing and puffing from having to go up and down hills, hearing the music over the loudspeakers and the cast members and various characters coming out to wave hello to everyone. Even the stormtroopers. I felt like I’d just finished the Batuu 5K! And then seeing everyone gawk at the Millennium Falcon in front of Smuggler’s Run.

#galaxy's edge #star wars #disney #reylo #geekylife #geek travel

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emsysquared · 6 years

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Top 10 Things I Learned From Artist Alleys

Hi guys! I thought I’d write a post on some things I’ve learned from selling my own art at artist alleys over the years & talking to fellow artists, as it’s something I’ve wanted to discuss and thought people would be interested. This isn’t really an Artist Alley 101 guide, as I wrote this in mind for both for beginners and veterans, because even if you’ve been tabling for years, there are things about the artist alley scene that can keep changing, or things you never knew about. Hope this helps!

LONG POST IS LONG WARNING

10. Bigger doesn’t always mean better – people keep thinking this, but it’s not always true.

Smaller conventions are easier to talk to attendees/artists because there’s often slow periods, and are good if if they’re local and you need a place to start. You can also get away with having only a few things to sell and if it doesn’t go well it won’t be a huge loss. Smaller cons tend to also have a lower table cost, and because the artist alley is smaller, it’s easier to “stand out”. Probably because of this, I’ve heard some cases where some people have made the same amount of profits from certain small cons vs. big cons, meaning, they actually got more sales per person at the smaller con.

Bigger conventions CAN command big bucks and keep you busier with sales because there’s more attendees and potentially more money to go around. However, they are also more competitive: if all you have is ONE print when everyone else around you has huge displays, you risk people passing by you because they may think you don’t have anything of interest to offer. As an example, maybe at the small con, your Overwatch solo D.Va print was the only one there and it did well, but at a big con, 20 other artists could also have similar D.Va prints and are now competing with each other, which is something you should consider.

Every con is different so when researching, you want to take into consideration the ratio of artist/vendor tables available in conjunction to attendee count, events/guests, and the con environment.

With both cons, if you frequent the same ones, try to keep things fresh and make new stuff or else you risk oversaturating your market and having people come up to your table thinking “I’ve seen that same poster 3 years already, and I already have it. What’s new?”

9. Just because something is popular doesn’t necessarily mean it’ll sell right away – there’s a fine line between “it’s popular so fans will buy it” and “it’s popular but it’s oversaturated because everyone and their mom drew it and it won’t sell unless you differentiate your work from everyone else”. I’d argue if you’re passionate about a series and it just happens to be popular, go for it! You should draw what you like, because it’ll show in how you interact with other fans and the effort you put into it.

If you’re only drawing for the popularity, well, there’s a bit of debate about this. And let’s be honest, some of us need to pay bills. I’ll argue if you ONLY draw whatever is popular to sell out, it can reflect in the quality of your work and make you unmemorable (and you can still risk it not selling), but hey, you do you. But drawing only niche things may also be tricky, since the fans are probably very passionate, but few in number. Sometimes finding a balance between both can work, but at the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide what path you want to take. Most artists start out doing fanart as it’s easier for someone to walk up to your table if they recognize their favorite character than a table full of random OCs standing in a backgroundless void. But that’s not to say originals can’t sell because....

8. Originals sell! Don’t be afraid to make original content – this might shock some of you but original merchandise DOES sell, according to many successful anecdotal stories from artists and art friends who’ve done it, and a lot of people have said it is very rewarding, especially when you consider how prevalent fanart is. However, originals can be harder to sell – it will highly depend on the subject matter you’re drawing and attendees at certain cons may be more or less receptive to them than others, so you may have to try different cons to find your market. What has worked for others may not work for you. You might even need time to develop a consistency with your work so people know what to expect from you.

There are also a few conventions out there, such as Otakon, which do require you to have a certain % of originals when you apply for their artist alley, so there’s that.

7. Have stuff with different price points at your table – my personal opinion is “Do not do print-only tables” but I know there are artists out there who DO command good profits only selling prints and posters of their artwork.

But why I say this is because (especially at anime cons) there are usually younger kids who don’t have much disposable income or don’t have a lot of wall space and thus, can’t always afford big $20 posters, which is where having smaller items like charms and buttons can help as impulse purchases. It may take you 10 purchases of $2 buttons to reach that equivalent amount, but if you do get enough sales they’ll add up. Plus, it’s easier for some people to make use of charms and buttons.

Prints are still good because the profit margin is better and they're a way for your audience to see your "portfolio" and art style from afar. At larger cons where there’s a sea of artists, having many prints can help others see what you have or help find your table from a distance. Try and stick to common print sizes such as 11x17 inches, 8.5x11, 4x6 or 5x7, mostly on the basis that they’re easier to frame.

One thing - unless you plan on traveling to many conventions in your life, you do NOT need to print 50+ copies of each print if all you do is table at your small local con once a year. You will regret it and be stuck with them until you die (I’m not kidding). Unless a piece has proven to you it’s a best seller, I recommend printing 5-10 copies a print, 2-4 if you aren’t confident. You can always reprint more if they sell well, or replace them with newer prints.

Comic cons I hear are a little different, as their audience is usually older, but I can’t say much about them since I never actually vended at one before.

6. You gotta spend money to make money – You wanna make cool stuff like charms, lanyards, enamel pins? A button maker to make your own buttons? A dealer’s room spot instead of a regular artist alley table? Travel to cons outside your city? Heck, just buying table display stuff and getting new prints? That all costs money, bruh. This might require you save up, and some people I know even use their day job to help fund them to afford nice things. But artist alley IS also a business, and if you want your business to grow, you’ll need to take risks and invest in it. However, know that this should happen gradually over time and NOT overnight. If you literally have no previous experience selling your art and knowing what worked for you, do NOT carelessly throw down money to make every fancy merchandise imaginable.

5. Talk to people and engage with attendees! I say this because I’ve seen quite a few artists who are great at their craft, but aren’t good at business at all. Even if you aren’t confident about your work, still strive to be as professional as possible. And be your own cheerleader/salesman to your art! If the con is slow, don’t ignore customer’s questions by playing mobile games on your phone. People get energy off of you, and if you happen to seem like you hate people, attendees pick up on that. A lot of people who go to anime cons can be introverted/shy as well, so just saying hi and ask how they’re enjoying the con is a good start to engage with them! If you notice they’re cosplaying a character, tell them you like their cosplay or happen to have that character as a button! You’d be surprised some people may not know you offer a product because they overlooked it.

I usually let customers browse the table without bothering them, as people get uncomfortable if you’re being too desperate with sales.

4. Displays and Table Placement matter- Your table placement at a convention can dictate a HUGE majority of your sales, and how you display yourself also counts as well. You could have amazing art, but maybe your table is in some back corner where it’s not getting enough foot traffic compared to the people in the front. Additionally, if you have merchandise hidden behind other merch, other people can’t see it as they walk by. Presentation is important, there are so many possibilities you can do to make your table look nice.

The most common way people display their prints are usually either by using grid cubes, photography stands or PVC pipes with clamps. All of these have their pros and cons, and some artists even use a combination of the 3.

3. Cons are extremely volatile. Artist alley is NOT a place to “get rich quick” – To be blunt (and unfortunately, speaking from personal experience), you can’t predict when you’ll get dicked over by a badly-run con. No two cons are the same, and the same convention can even vary from year to year, depending on things like how it was run by staff, its location, when it was held, etc. At one con, you may sell out of prints. At another, only your commissions do well. Even something as simple as a venue change and increasing the amount of artist/vendor tables can affect sales. You can only prepare as much as you can and hope you survive the rainy days.

I used to think as you got older and sold at more artist alleys, your profits could only go up and boy was I wrong with that notion. The realest piece of advice I’ve learned is seeing seasoned veterans (who are used to making 4-digit profits or artists who have done this for over 7 years) having times where they hit a bad con and don’t even break even. If you’ve never had a terrible con before, you are either very lucky or you have not vended at enough different cons to experience this.

A lot of different factors can come into play, and while some you can’t control, think of the ones that you can – was your setup bad? What do you see other attendees buying? Or maybe was this your first con in a completely different area and it caught you off guard? If you feel your art was lacking, don’t lose confidence. Look at it as an opportunity to find yourself again, and work hard on your craft so you can show everyone at your next event “hey, this is the new and improved me! Look at how far I’ve come!”

2. Artist alleys can be stressful and are getting more competitive, but it’s important to develop a thick skin to keep moving on – I should clarify this, AA should NOT be a sea of cutthroat competition because every con has its mix of those starting out, the veterans who have been doing this for 10 years, and everyone else in between. And everyone has something different to bring to the table. However, the fact is… artist alleys are getting competitive each year just to GET IN. At some popular cons, there’s always more applicants than tables available, and you can’t take it personally when 1,000+ people are in a lottery for 90 tables.

As artists, we are always our worst critics as well, just because art can be highly personable to us. There’s a lot of things that can go wrong in the moment. Maybe you got more commissions than you can handle. Your new merchandise didn’t arrive on time. Or you worry your art isn’t “sellable”. All of these can be pretty frustrating and question your self-worth as an artist. But just know you are not alone, all of us have had those moments at least once, maybe even multiple times in our lives. Sometimes you just have to keep marching on, despite things. And if you need time to step away to take a breather, go ahead and take care of yourself first.

1. … But you keep wanting to do them because they are also one of the best experiences you can have as a creative – despite the above, artist alleys have been an integral part of my growth as an artist. Seeing what everyone has to offer has challenged me to keep improving my art and helped me meet fellow artist friends thru our comradery of shared experiences, interests, and stresses. It’s very easy to feel dejected, but if you can keep pushing thru, you’ll probably benefit the most than those who give up at the slightest hint of being butthurt. The artist alley life isn’t exactly easily, but it’s heartwarming when you have moments where “doing what you love” and “drawing what you like” feel like it paid off.

Don’t feel bad if your first shows don’t go logistically or financially great! I never realized how lucky I was that my first AA, I broke even AND made profit, because many apparently don’t. Go into it as an opportunity to market your work, meet other artists and customers, and figure out what people like about your art. Artist alley is not for everyone, but if you find that you’re growing to love it despite the hiccups, keep going! My AA experience isn’t as extensive as others, but I hope with this, this is my way of giving back to the artist alley community that helped me grow as an artist.

If you’re still worried if you’re “good enough” to do artist alley, here’s my final advice: just do it, bruh.

#artist alley #artist alley tips #first time artist alley #how to be a con artist #if you read this far THANK U AND I HOPE THIS HELPED. and feel free to send me an ask or message if you have any questions!1

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zrtranscripts · 7 years

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Season 6, Mission 7: Lessons in Love

Revenge of the Nerds

MAXINE MYERS: Wait, wait. So and Nadia's gone to work with Amelia because Amelia's taken over New Canton?

SAM YAO: Not so much taken over as, um... well, yeah. Taken over. But it's not like she's running things for them. She's got them mostly running things for her. She's just very... you know. Decisive.

PAULA COHEN: People do like a decisive leader. And I suppose they can't do much worse than they were before. Any word on the location of the babies?

SAM YAO: Mm, no. We're working on it. Even the Laundry can't find anything for us. You see, ideally, we need someone inside Sigrid's inner circle, but well, that's going to be hard to arrange. In the meantime, getting parts for this transmitter of Jody's is a good start.

MAXINE MYERS: So that's what we're heading to this comms station for. We've caught snatches of their transmissions. We know they are bound to have the cables that Jody needs. I, for one, am glad to be serving Abel.

PAULA COHEN: It didn't need to be us, though, did it? Tom was going to go, and you insisted we went instead. Five, has Maxine told you the real reason she wanted to go on this mission?

MAXINE MYERS: For Abel?

PAULA COHEN: It's because she hasn't been able to find any copies of Xena: Warrior Princess since the apocalypse, and that just happens to be what this place is broadcasting.

MAXINE MYERS: That's just a coincidence! Back me up, Sam.

SAM YAO: Oh whoa-ho-ho, no. No, no, no. You two can leave me out of this. Remember our co-parenting contract?

MAXINE MYERS: I don't think that really applies...

SAM YAO: Oh yes, it does. I can read you the exact clause. When we agreed to be co-parents, I got it from both of you, in writing, that I would never, ever be asked to adjudicate in a row.

PAULA COHEN: Fine. Five, listen to this: Max volunteered us for a mission, on date night - a date night where I was planning to make latkes - because she has a crush on Xena flipping Warrior whatever.

MAXINE MYERS: You've never seen Xena: Warrior Princess! [laugh] Right, we need to make that right immediately.

SAM YAO: Yeah. Guys, before you get Xena: Warrior Princess, you're going to have to make it through that playground full of child zombies. I think they must have been trapped in the school until the storm the other day.

MAXINE MYERS: Oh God! The kids are the worst! Run!

SAM YAO: Okay, I think you lost them. Hey, it's weird, though. That school playground's been safe for months. I've got the report here. We sent in runners to check it clear, room by room, last month.

PAULA COHEN: You think it could be a deliberate deployment, then? By the comms station?

SAM YAO: Mm, maybe. I mean, it's a bit weird for a comms station, to be honest. Not only are they broadcasting Xena, their building used to be a distribution center for Geek King. You know, you know, the online retailer.

MAXINE MYERS: Yep. Which is why they have access to Xena DVDs.

PAULA COHEN: I'm surprised it hasn't been cleared out before now. People always want DVDs and stuff.

SAM YAO: [imitates Boromir from the Lord of the Rings] "Ah, but one does not simply get DVDs during a zombie apocalypse."

MAXINE MYERS: There's a dumbass rumor that this warehouse is full of kind of extreme nerds. Dangerous. Murdery.

SAM YAO: The Winchers. Like, imagine nerds, but if they went feral. Took cosplays too far, reenacted all the goriest parts of the stuff they're into. The rumor is they used to be 4chan "alpha male" believers, and then the zombie apocalypse came, and they blamed the feminazis, and - [sighs] they just went down that rabbit hole and just kept on going.

MAXINE MYERS: They're broadcasting Xena. No one who broadcasts Xena could be an evil man.

SAM YAO: What, even if they're setting zombie traps around their perimeter?

MAXINE MYERS: Well, we don't know that was them. We'll probably find some people holed up in there, sending out Xena clips to make contact with other fans. We'll get the cables and come back later with everyone's orders for specific Blake's 7 episodes and plastic lightsabers. [laughs] It's going to be great. Come on!

[door creaks open and clangs shut]

SAM YAO: Are you in?

MAXINE MYERS: We're in. This place is huge! And... kind of spooky.

[zombie moans]

PAULA COHEN: Uh oh. Not all the warehouse pickers are gone. Some of them have turned zombie. Look, they're still at work trying to fill internet orders. See that one stacking Game of Thrones box sets?

SAM YAO: Ooh, ooh! Do they have the last season? Because I never -

MAXINE MYERS: No, Sam. We're just here for Xena. I mean, Xena and those cables. Anyway, we've got to move fast. I think that one of them spotted us.

MAXINE MYERS: Quick, into this storeroom.

[door creaks open and snaps shut]

PAULA COHEN: Wait, this is the transmission room. See? There's the broadcasting equipment.

MAXINE MYERS: Yes. These are the cables, and - !

PAULA COHEN: Oh, the DVDs. Xena: Warrior Princess. Let's see. You know you said I'm your Gabrielle, but looking at this, maybe you're the Gabrielle and I'm the Xena.

MAXINE MYERS: Honey, you have never seen the show. How can you possibly know who's the Xena?

PAULA COHEN: Uh, because she's the one who has Warrior Princess in her name? I know what you like.

SAM YAO: Okay, I've got the cams up. Uh, yup, it's clear for you to come out of there. Those zoms are trapped in an aisle of Funko figures. Oh my God!

MAXINE MYERS: What? What is it?

SAM YAO: Well, they've got an Ursula from The Little Mermaid! Do you have any idea how – well, dear God, don't eat it! Look, if you pass those Funkos on your way out – oh God! I need another camera. There's something coming, in the shadows. Someone. Guys, I think you should get out of there. Go, now!

SAM YAO: Yeah, okay. Guys, just really keep running. I've got more cams up, and [sighs] no, it doesn't look good.

PAULA COHEN: More zoms?

SAM YAO: I don't really know how to say this, guys. It appears to be Voldemort.

MAXINE MYERS: What? Voldemort is coming after us?

PAULA COHEN: Someone dressed as Voldemort.

SAM YAO: Well, I guess. It just looks so like him! Ugh, no! I just got a full face view. Actually no nose.

PAULA COHEN: Someone who has dressed up as Voldemort, and taken it so seriously, they've cut off their own nose?

SAM YAO: He's heading your way. And oh. Oh! He has a mob behind him.

MAXINE MYERS: Death Eaters?

SAM YAO: More like Ewoks, or um, Daleks? But sort of a costume mash-up? They're Darwoks? Ewoleks? Oh, that is so wrong.

PAULA COHEN: I can hear them. Oh God, they sound so weird!

MAXINE MYERS: It's not just weird, it's them. Winchers are very real. Okay, I can admit when I was wrong. They're not going to be our friends. We are not going to reenact Xena together. We've got our DVDs, we've got our cables. We need to get out of here.

SAM YAO: Uh, okay, okay. Yeah, uh, right, then left, then third right. Go. Run!

MOB: [chants in the background] Sacrifice! Sacrifice...

PAULA COHEN: Sam, this is a dead end. And it's dark.

SAM YAO: Yeah. They've turned off the lights. And I think they've cut access to half my cams!

MAXINE MYERS: Where are the Winchers?

SAM YAO: Uh... no, I can't see them on the cams.

PAULA COHEN: If we hide here for a while, maybe they'll lose interest and we'll get away.

[door opens, MOB chants in background]

WINCHER: Oh, I don't think you'll be getting away. Not now, or ever!

MAXINE MYERS: Oh God, it's Voldemort. Ugh, your nose! Did you do that to yourself?

WINCHER: Call me Harold! Harold Wincher. And I was Voldemort, but now I am – [chokes] Ah. Sorry. Uh, could somebody help me with my robe? It was meant to fall dramatically to the floor by itself, but it snagged on the Elder Wand.

MAXINE MYERS: Sam, get us out of here!

WINCHER: I am... Lord Summerisle! ... It's uh, it's from The Wicker Man. Look, I had to put it together very hastily when we saw you approaching, and he doesn't have the same striking look as our old Voldy. But you know, I've yet to actually master Avada Kedavra, but everyone loves a barbecue!

SAM YAO and MAXINE MYERS and PAULA COHEN: What?!

SAM YAO: The end of The Wicker Man! They burn Edward Woodward alive! I think the Winchers are going to reenact that. Guys!

MAXINE MYERS: The mob are going to burn us alive!

PAULA COHEN: This was meant to be a date night.

WINCHER: Ewoks! Daleks! Seize them! Bind them to the poles!

SAM YAO: Yeah, I've got a clear eye line on the mob now. Oh my God, this is so many kinds of horrible. Uh, they're all in costume, but that one is wearing a Sith Lord robe with a Time Lord headdress. How could you? Also, guys, most of their costumes are bloodstained. They're really for real.

PAULA COHEN: Maxie, if this is it, I'm sorry I was so whiny about coming here. I love spending time with you. I can't believe I was jealous of your stupid show. I love you, Max.

MAXINE MYERS: Paula, I know, love. I do. And we've been through too much for it to end up like this. Right? They are crazy fans. I am a crazy fan. I know how to get under their skin. Wincher. Harold Wincher.

WINCHER: How may I help you, heathen? A last request before you are condemned to the flames?

MAXINE MYERS: Yes. My request is: be better! [MOB quiets] Harold, this reenactment is terrible! You're just wearing an Aran jumper. Lord Summerisle had a tweed jacket. Your mob of supposedly bloodthirsty pagan villagers look like they've run naked through the merch hall of Comic-Con, covered in glue! [MOB grumbles] And we're meant to be burned in a wicker man, not tied to poles.

WINCHER: Okay, but the wicker man is a very big prop. We had no lead time, and – oh God, she's right. This is a mess! None of you are even standing like bloodthirsty pagan villagers! I – look, I'm sorry. This was a rush job, and it shows. All right, take five. Let them go.

PAULA COHEN: That was amazing, Max.

MAXINE MYERS: Not now, honey. Quick, before they change their minds. Run!

PAULA COHEN: Okay, I have to admit, that was a pretty good date night for someone who likes seeing her girlfriend save the day by being brilliant.

MAXINE MYERS: What can I say? I'm pretty motivated when I'm trying to get home so I can watch Xena with my hot girlfriend... maybe dress up in my old Xena outfit for my hot girlfriend... reenact a few Xena bathing scenes with my hot girlfriend.

PAULA COHEN: Xena outfit, you say? Like the one on the DVD box? Mm, I don't hate it.

MAXINE MYERS: Oh, mine is way better than that. I made it from scrap metal in my spare time. What? [laughs] Isn't that what anyone would do in their spare time? [laughs] [continue chatting in the background]

SAM YAO: Hey, Five, now you've got those cables, I think I've worked out an alternative route home for you. How about you and me take a little detour and leave the doctors to it, hmm?

#zombies run #zrs6 #s6m7 #lessons in love #zr transcript #zrs6 spoilers

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hammerraptor · 4 years

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Have less than one year before Microsoft cuts off Windows 7

When Windows 10 launched in 2015, PC users were confronted with a dilemma. Microsoft had in many enthusiasts eyes been making blunder after blunder in their efforts to turn what we all thought was a perfectly functional operating system into some kind of idiot, friendly, touchscreen fisher-price. Looking nonsense and on top of trying to fix what ain't broke, Microsoft wanted unprecedented access to their users, data and resolved to just force system updates when you're right in the middle of something and all for what DirectX 12. So many power users ended up sticking with Windows 7 and are still using it today, but they have a problem. If you're one of these individuals, you now have less than one year before Microsoft, cuts off Windows 7.

You may not want to risk an upgrade, but, as Aragorn said, to fit in in the Great Hall of EDS upgrading is upon you whether you would risk it or not. Wait. I don't think that's quite what he said. You know what else is close. I can almost smell it. So close, that's our sponsor! It won't help you with your Windows, 7 problem, but they still G skills. Trident II royal series, ddr4 memory, features a polished, aluminium heat spreader, that's available in both gold or silver and a crystalline light bar that radiates beautiful RGB check it out at the link below [ Music ].

Now you might not realize this, but in spite of Microsoft, practically giving away Windows 10 even to those with pirated installations, most users stuck with Windows 7, rather than upgrading, either to eight or ten something that only finally changed late last year in December, net market share Reported that Windows 10 installations rose above Windows 7 for the first time and now account for nearly 41 percent of the user base compared to Windows 7 37 percent. Now, hopefully, that number is going to continue to go down as we get closer to January 14. 2020.

The day that Windows 7 dies because otherwise we are gon na - have some serious problems because, yes, yes, ok, Windows, 7, it's not gon na die. It'S not like you just turn on your computer and it doesn't turn on anymore. It'S just going to stop receiving feature, updates, bug, fixes and, most importantly, security updates, which are very important if you want to, I don't know, continue Oh safe using the Internet. Now, as it did for previous versions of Windows, Microsoft is offering extended security updates, or, yes, you, ECU for Windows, 7 enterprise and pro additions up until January 2023. But this extended the update service won't come cheap and adding insult to injury. The price will double each year, so three years of support is gon na cost.

A hundred and seventy-five bucks for enterprise licenses and three hundred and fifty for windows 7 pro og, also, if you're a mega ball or PC gamer thinking, yeah no problem. 350 bucks looks like what mid tier graphics card. Sorry, I've got some bad news for you, too. Esu is only available for volume license subscriptions which are usually held by companies or schools. So business is running Windows, 7 machines on Microsoft's, Azure cloud as part of the Windows virtual desktop program, those folks get ESU for free, but again baller gamers. I would imagine that scenario doesn't apply to you. So then, if you're just a regular Windows, 7 user with a personal license, what can you do well before we get too deep into your options?

Let'S take a look at why people want to hold on to Windows 7, like that grudge against their brother for stealing the last piece of their birthday cake, even though they told them that they were saving it for later and hid it away way in the back Of the fridge - so you wouldn't know it was there Windows 7 was, is kind of fantastic. It'S mature, stable and reliable and offers a great amount of control over the way it behaves. Its interface is functional, familiar and extremely customizable, and it's got all your settings just the way that you like them. I mean. Furthermore, I wouldn't be surprised if anyone upgrading now has a program or two that would either require a new, not to mention costly license to run on Windows 10 or that isn't available for it at all and there's other little creature comforts typing in the search bar Retrieves results that make sense instead of a Windows setting you weren't, looking for or a web result from big windows, 7.

Doesn'T incessantly ask you to send more of your personal information to Microsoft or decide on its own when it's time to update whether you like it or not, updates are available? Sorry, you know what I'm actually kind of in the middle of something kind of Roger that updating now, but as awesome as Windows 7 is. There are quite a few cons to staying with it past the end date for extended support. Besides lacking the latest antivirus protections, Windows 7 won't have Windows, 10 features like device guard, UEFI, secure boot and Windows, hello, which offer higher overall security for your system, and while gaming performance is about the same, some things like system boot times are slower in Windows 7.

Compared to Windows 10, so it turns out Microsoft, software engineers weren't sitting around playing beer pong for the last 78 years. Also, if you're worried about future proofing at all, which you should be at least a little bit. Windows, 7 is not a great bet, as software and even hardware makers eventually do stop providing support for legacy operating systems. So, even if you pay for es, you support only lasts for three years and costs more than a Windows 10 license and you might be able to upgrade for free anyway, yep, even though Microsoft officially ended their offer for a free upgrade to Windows. 10 from Windows. 7 or 8 many users have reported successful, fully activated upgrades by using Microsoft's official upgrade utility, and even if you have to pay bare with me for a moment here, Windows 10 might not be as bad as you think. There are a lot of happy users out there who appreciate its combination of the efficiency and customization of Windows 7 and the modern design of Windows 8 and despite Microsoft's best efforts.

There is actually a fair bit that you can do to minimize their data collection and postpone system updates until absolutely necessary, or at least until it's convenient, so we're gon na have some resources for you guys for this linked in the video description. But let's say you drop a line at Windows: 10. Fine, you say I'll! Stop using Windows 7, but hashtag, never Windows, 10 whoo tell you guys are serious cuz that hashtag there well, for you guys. There are other options. First up, there's Windows. 8.1. I mean I doubt that you guys have stuck with Windows 7 for this long, just to get into the OS that Gabe Newell called a catastrophe, and it's data, collection and update system are kind of similar to Windows 10, but at least it'll be getting security updates,

Though, realistically now that Microsoft has learned from their mistake of supporting Windows, XP for like ever that'll, probably only buy you a couple of years. So maybe that's not a great option. So then, what how about Oh Mac OS, while Apple's desktop OS, has come a long way and is obviously used by many tech enthusiasts? The thing is, I don't see many windows, 7 diehards willingly affecting to apples Camp Plus. You would need to either buy a totally new computer or begin the long, arduous process of trying to turn your existing PC into a hackintosh. Now it might be doable, but even most hackintosh enthusiasts are pretty open about what a finicky experience that is leaving Linux. Now, a couple of years ago,

I would have said that that's madness, but Linux is a more viable option than ever before, even for gamers. Now we're planning another follow-up, video on Valve's proton compatibility software, but for now the main thing you need to know about it is that it makes an ever growing list of Windows. Games run flawlessly on Linux and community reports indicate that thousands more run pretty well. As for the non-gamers popular Linux, distros like Ubuntu work great for productivity, focused views, especially if the majority of your work is done on the web, and there are even distros that borrow heavily from Windows for their interface, like Linux Mint. So your homesickness will at least be saved a little and then, of course, there's the last option. Stick with Windows 7 hold fast as your destruction edges ever closer.

So you goodbye to hardware or software upgrades and just well just don't browse the internet after January 14th. 2012, with regards to that option, I mean you know what Godspeed you brave bastard, but, needless to say, we don't actually recommend doing that. What we do recommend, though, if you need to build a beautiful website without the hassle, is Squarespace with Squarespace is all in one platform, you just pick a template and turn your text throw in your pictures, design a logo they've got all kinds of amazing tools and Boom, you have a website, it might not be a very good website. It might not have a lot of important information on it, but that's on you, sir or ma'am. It'S not on Squarespace, because they have tons of amazing help that you can leverage they offer webinars. Full series of help guides and you can contact their 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.

If you're ever having trouble, and if you already have a third party domain, you don't have to give it up, you can just transfer it to Squarespace plus with Squarespace. You get tons of e-commerce features to help you sell merch or services online and easily manage your inventory and orders so head over to Squarespace comm /l tt and get 10 % off your first purchase. We'Re gon na have that linked below. So thanks for watching guys, we just like this video. You can hit that button. I'M sorry! It'S a really bad news. I get it, but if you liked it hit like get subscribed or maybe consider checking out where to buy the stuff, we featured Windows 10. I guess at the link in the video description also down, there is our merch store, which has cool shirts like this one and our community forum, which you should totally join. We should have where you can now buy it, a bunch of CD canonical we'll ship. You one if you pay like a couple bucks, I think you can yeah but and don't pay for Linux either way. It'S free. It'S kind of the point.

#windows error #windows

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heavenslastcrush · 5 years

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CONVENTION SURVIVAL GUIDE: Prepping for PAX East, Twitch Con, and beyond!!

It’s the end of March, and convention season is upon us! But, before the madness and non-stop hustle begins, I wanted to make sure that all convention goers were equipped with some key tips and tricks of the trade so that you can get the most our of your convention experience.

This article will focus specifically on PAX East, but the tips can universally be applied to any convention. Additionally, all of these tips come with the assumption that you’ve already purchased your convention tickets and booked travel and lodging in advance.

Here we go!

BEFORE THE CONVENTION

GET CONNECTED!

Conventions are a whirlwind, and you want to be armed with as much information as you can from the onset to ensure that you complete and accomplish everything that you want to at the event. The great news is, there are tons of helpful resources out there to help you get connected and keep you as up-to-date and informed as possible!

Download PAX App

The PAX App really is your one-stop shop for all things PAX-related. It includes a schedule of events as well as a list of exhibitors, and allows you to mark which ones you are interested in to create your very own schedule and to-do list directly within the app. There are also maps of the convention center, information about shuttle routes and times, and other useful information on safety and security at the event. I HIGHLY recommend downloading this and utilizing it before and during the event.

Follow Relevant PAX Accounts on Twitter

The PAX App is awesome in terms of a 1000ft overview of all things PAX-related. But, Twitter will be your best friend when it comes to minute-by-minute updates, and surrounding happenings not directly connected to the convention itself. If there are any studios, vendors, developers, streamers, etc. that you are hoping to run into at PAX, be sure that you are following them on Twitter. Here are a few accounts that I recommend (linked for your convenience):

@Official_PAX

@PAX_lines

@PAXEastNews

@PaxParties

Check Forums

Another great source of information are PAX, gaming, & industry-related forums, or Discords. Smaller communities, independent studios, and even larger studios that didn’t necessarily want to pony-up cash for a more organized event may still have meet-ups or parties happening in the evening. Spend some time trolling around on these forums and in your favorite Discord community groups to see what’s happening.

Connect with Streamers, Friends, & Anyone Else You are Hoping to Meet

CONVENTIONS ARE CRAZY. CONVENTIONS ARE CRAZY. CONVENTIONS ARE CRAZY. If there is a streamer you want to meet, a friend that you know is going, or an industry representative you want to introduce yourself to, BE SURE you are connecting with them prior to the event and creating a plan for 1) where to meet them, and 2) how to get in touch. Even with these great intentions, the plans still might not work out, because again — conventions are crazy — but, reaching out before the event will drastically increase your chances of making a meetup happen.

PACK FOR THE EVENT

Packing for a convention can be a bit tricky. Most people are gone from their hotels/AirBnb/wherever they are sleeping for 12-16 hours at a time, and there can be wild temperature changes between the overall weather, and what it feels like in the convention center hall. I’ll be breaking this packing section down into 5 parts — Health, Convenience/Entertainment, Clothing, Business, & General Necessities/Other

BRING YOUR BADGE(S)!!!

This isn’t a category, but this should be the FIRST thing you pack! Trust me, the last thing you want to do is deal with the headache and hassle of having to get a replacement badge the day-of, and for some conventions, obtaining a replacement may not even be an option. Whatever you do, DON’T FORGET YOUR BADGES.

Health

Health may seem like a weird category to be classifying as part of an overall packing list, but it’s arguably one of the most important. Remember, you’re at these conventions for 8-12 hours per day, sometimes for up to 4 days. During that time, you are literally coming in contact with thousands of people, and touching electronics that are being handled by tens-of-thousands of people. That’s a breeding ground for germs. The PAX-flu, and the TwitchCon-flu? Those are real things, and there’s a reason — because people don’t prepare in advance and take care of their health during these events.

1. Hand Sanitizer

Keep this with you at all times. Use it after shaking hands, or handling any electronics, merch, or cash.

2. Vitamin C

There are a lot of skeptics out there about the benefits of Vitamin C, but this is something I swear by. Convention or not, anytime I’m traveling, I begin loading up on the Vitamin C about 2 days before I leave for my trip, take it throughout the duration of my trip, and continue taking it for about 2 days after I return home. The extra boost to my immune system prevents me from getting sick.

3. Refillable Water Bottle & Snacks

As mentioned, these conventions are a complete whirlwind. When I was at TwitchCon in October 2018, I remember going a straight 30 hours without eating anything because I was hopping from one forum, panel, meeting, or demo to the next. The air in the convention center is super dry, and its easy to wear yourself out bouncing from event to event. Hydration and adequate nutrition are going to be key for keeping your energy levels up. You can definitely purchase beverages and snacks at the convention if you don’t want to worry about packing more than you absolutely need to. However, you’re going to be hard pressed to find healthy food options at any convention center. So, if eating healthy is important to you, or you’re not into a potato-chips, hotdogs, chicken tenders, and burgers-only kind of diet, be sure to bring fruit, nuts, or other small bites with you.

Convenience/Entertainment

This section will detail things that will make your life easier/happier if you pack these things. But won’t be the end of the world if you don’t.

1. Cash

In today’s world of technology, MOST places will accept credit cards. However, you’ll make your life a lot easier if you have a little bit of cash on hand incase you run into the odd vendor that doesn’t accept card, if you’re looking to breeze your way through a line (it’s typically a lot easier to get through check-out if you are paying in cash), or to make splitting a bill easier (for those strange friends that still haven’t downloaded Venmo).

2. External Battery Charger/Power Bank

There are outlets scattered throughout the convention center, typically near the restrooms, however, you probably don’t want to spend your time being tethered to a wall, and you definitely don’t want to be caught with a dead camera if you spot your favorite streamer or an amazing cosplay. Having an external power bank will keep your electronics with all the juice you need throughout the day.

3. WiFi hotspot

I’m just going to say it — cell service is virtually non-existent at these convention centers. And, while there is often free wifi, it tends to be pretty spotty and molasses-level slow since thousands of people are all trying to use it at once. If connectivity is important to you, consider bringing your own WiFi hotspot.

4. Any Electronics you want, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE CORDS/CABLES!!

Cell Phone

Camera

Controller

Nintendo Switch

Many gamers elect to bring a portable gaming device (separate from their cell phones) because there is often downtime at these events when you are waiting for a panel to start, or when you are waiting in line to test a game (or get into the convention center). Having a switch with you might make these annoying lines and wait times a bit more bearable.

Laptop

Clothing

In terms of clothing, COMFORT IS KEY!! You’re going to be on your feet all day, in an extremely crowded space. You don’t want your feet to give out on you, be super sweaty or freezing cold, or be fussing with your clothes instead of enjoying the event. I recommend checking the weather forecast before you head to the event to make sure you prepare as best as possible.

1. Comfortable Footwear

At TwitchCon there was a day where I wore 6-inch wedges for 12 hours. By the end of the night, I couldn’t feel my feet, bend them back into a flattened state, or sleep because they were throbbing so much. Never again. Be smarter than me. Wear comfortable shoes.

2. Comfortable LAYERS of Clothes

These layers are totally going to depend on the outside temperature of the city of your convention. For PAX East 2019, it’s going to be COLD outside. However, inside the convention center there might be sections where it is absurdly hot, and others where its a bit chilly. Plan to layer t-shirts, jackets, and heavier coats as needed based on temperature.

SPECIFIC TO PAX EAST: There is usually a coat-check at the convention center, but if you want to deal with one less line you can opt to not wear a heavier coat, and just stick with a hoodie/sweatshirt over normal clothes. If you go this route, I would recommend 1) taking an Uber/shuttle that will bring you door to door from your lodging to the event, and 2) arriving at a non-peak time to avoid entry lines. If you don’t do these two things, you will freeze. You have been warned.

3. Evening Attire

If after-parties are your thing at these conventions, you may want to consider bringing a separate outfit or two for these specific events. There may be themed-parties (so check the forums!) that you have to bring certain clothes for. Or, you may just want to look a little nicer after-hours.

Ladies, a LBD (little black dress); or a nice pair of jeans and a cute blouse will usually suffice.

Gentlemen, consider bringing a button down and a pair of shoes that aren’t sneakers or sandals (some bars/clubs won’t let you in with this time of footwear).

4. All the bits and bobs…

This includes all of the other things that you may want to have with you, that may not apply to everyone, but are commonly overlooked items:

Socks

Underwear

Bras

Pajamas

Gym Clothes

Cosplay Outfits

Gloves

Hat

Sunglasses

Business

If you’re a streamer, content creator, developer, or any industry-related person at PAX (or want to be!) then this section applies to you. If you are just there to chill, have fun, and play awesome games, you can probably skip this one. ;-)

1. Business Cards

BRING ‘EM. USE ‘EM. They are a powerful networking tool. Just make sure you make a genuine connection with a person before handing them your card.

2. Giveaways

Slightly more specific to streamers/content creators: You may elect to bring giveaways for people that you meet from your community. Common items include personalized buttons or stickers, or merch.

General Necessities/Other

This is literally anything else that you may want to have on hand with you. It will be totally specific to your individual needs.

1. DEODORANT

Please, for the love of all that is good, BRING AND WEAR DEODORANT. Your fellow gamers and the entire world will thank you. (And if you’ve never been to a convention before/don’t understand what this means, trust me, your nose will very soon.)

2. Toiletries

This can include shampoo, conditioner, face wash, moisturizer, lotion, etc. Some of these may be provided as amenities, but if you want your own, or if you are staying at an AirBnB, you will want to pack your own.

3. Curling Iron/Straightener

4. Medications/Other Vitamins/Supplements

5. Make-up/Make-Up Removing Wipes

CREATE A PLAN

Create a schedule of where you want to be/who you want to meet with

A lot will likely happen throughout the course of the convention that will throw this plan off, but its better to go in prepared. These conventions are big, crazy, and messy. So, if you don’t have a plan, there’s a chance that you end up bouncing around for 2-4 days and don’t get anything accomplished that you wanted to.

SCHEDULE BREAKS. You are human (I think). You need to eat, drink, use the bathroom, rest your feet. You don’t want to be so fatigued you can’t get out of bed the second day, so schedule breaks as you are creating your perfect plan.

Decide what’s in your day-bag

Your day-bag is going to be different than everything that was on the prior packing list. These are the essentials that you want to have on hand with you during the event. Make a list with the intent that it should prevent you from having to go back to the hotel mid-event. These day-bags are going to be super specific to you. (Ex. If you are cosplaying, you may want to bring a change of clothes to have on hand. If you’re streaming, you might need your entire IRL backpack in addition to your normal day-bag.)

Here is what I keep in my day-bag:

Badge(s)Cong

Hand Sanitizer

Phone

Travel Charger & Cord

Camera & Backup Battery

Business Cards

Pen

I take notes on my phone, but still keep a pen on hand incase I need to sign a credit card receipt, want to sign up for a giveaway, or want to make a note on a flyer I’ve collected.

Chapstick or Lip Gloss

Wallet (Cash, Credit Cards, ID)

DURING CONVENTION

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the convention! Now what??

Follow Your Plan, but Be FLEXIBLE.

Getting connected in advance and creating the plan is incredibly important in helping to ensure you maximize your experience and do everything you want. However, a ton of things are going to happen that are going to impede your ability to stick to this schedule 100%. Lines may take forever. Panels may get cancelled or start late. Friends may cancel on you. You might make new friends and create plans with them, causing you to cancel on a prior commitment.

Anything that happens is A-OK!! Use your plan more as a guideline, and remain as patient and flexible as you can!

Take Notes During Forums and Chats

You are going to be meeting so many people and trying so many things over the course of the convention, it will fly by. Within this whirlwind of craziness, be sure you are taking notes during panel discussions, or as you are experiencing fun things/meeting great people. Is there an indie game you loved playing the demo for? Write it down. Are you a streamer that met another streamer and you want to collab with them in the future? Make a note of who they were, what you discussed, and a reminder to follow up with them and get a stream planned after the event.

Even if you are 100% in the moment when you are having these conversations, you’ll want to reference these notes later. Especially if you want to tell someone else about them (like your best friend that couldn’t make it to PAX last minute, or your community if you are a streamer!).

Take Care of Yourself

Seriously. You have to take care of yourself during this event. It’s exhausting, and there are a lot of people.

1. Consider Bringing Snacks & a Water Bottle in your Day Bag

This will help you manage your energy levels and prevent you from getting hangry.

2. TAKE BREAKS

If you haven’t completely ignored my advice up until now, breaks should be a part of your schedule. But, if you didn’t, or if you realize you’ve been going 8 hours and haven’t taken a sip of water… maybe do that before you pass out. Breaks are important. Take them.

3. Use the Buddy System

If you are traveling with friends, make sure you know where your friends are and vice versa.

If you happen to be traveling alone (which is totally fine, it’s my personal favorite way to travel!) be sure that someone (a parent, friend, spouse, girlfriend/boyfriend, manager… someone) knows where you will be, where you’ll be staying, and when you plan to check in with them throughout the event.

Check in with your buddy when you are supposed to.

4. Meet People Openly, but Exercise Caution

I want to believe that everyone in the world is 100% good and that we could all just drink butterfly tea, sit around a campfire and sing kum-ba-ya. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case, and even someone that you may “know” may not always have the best intentions.

If you make plans to meet with somebody outside of the convention, meet them in a public location. Be cautious sharing your lodging details with strangers. And, don’t feel pressured to accept anything (drinks, food, gifts, etc) from anybody.

5. Monitor Your Intake of Indulgences

I’m not here to tell you how to live your life or spend your extracurricular time. That being said, if you are opting to indulge in alcohol or any other type of substance, be very careful not to over-indulge. You don’t want to feel like the walking dead at the convention the next morning, or have to stay in bed because you overdid it the night before.

If you are drinking, monitor your drinks. Never leave your drink unattended, and be cautious accepting drinks from strangers.

Remember that there are a lot of people at these conventions so if you are there for business to any extent, be mindful that someone that you may be looking to do business with could see you. Impressions are everything, even after hours.

Be Kind and Courteous to Everyone you Meet

Something that always amazes me at these conventions is how kind everyone is. If you accidentally bump into someone, they will most likely apologize to you. It’s almost as if being at the convention magically transports everyone to Canada and we just don’t know it.

That being said, not every single part of these conventions is going to be fun and there are a lot of potential triggers for grouchy behavior: from long lines, people cancelling plans, no toilet paper in the bathroom, no cell phone service, losing your friend for the 85th time in an hour, getting hangry because you skipped breakfast and lunch.

If you’ve followed the rest of this guide, you’ll probably mitigate most of these. However, even if you are the teensiest-tiniest bit grouchy, still remember to be kind and courteous. You never know who you are going to meet, so always put your best face forward. And, everyone is really just there to have a good time, so if you put out positive, high-frequency energy (even if you’re not 100% feeling it), it’ll likely bounce back to you and get you to the place where you DO 100% feel it.

If You’re a Streamer/Content Creator/There on Business — Save All of your Receipts

You can deduct the full cost of any travel and lodging (planes, trains, ubers, buses, taxis, etc) and 50% of the cost of meals if you are attending the convention for business

Have Fun!! Try New Things!! Meet New People!! GO CRUSH IT!!

‘nuff said.

AFTER CONVENTION

“OMG! OMG! OMG! That was awesome! What a great experience! Can’t wait to do it again next year!” Slow down there, cowboy… before we start planning the next convention, be sure to round out and FULLY maximize this years experience.

Relish in the Moment

You just had an amazing experience that thousands of other people would have dreamed of. What a blessing! Be mindful of everything you just did (and potentially accomplished). Journal about it. Tell your communities about it. Tell your family about it.

Going back to school/work/whatever you were doing before might feel like a bit of a let-down after the high of these conventions, so by being really mindful of the experience, you can transport yourself back to this feeling incase the Monday-morning blues start to hit afterwards.

Follow-Up with People

If you were there at all for business, or even if you were just there to enjoy the event, you probably made a dozen or more really great contacts (industry-wise, friend-wise or both). Send a note to all of them. Thank them for meeting them. Get a follow-up connect on the calendar if it makes sense. Foster and maintain these relationships.

Consider not reaching out to business contacts THE VERY NEXT DAY you get back from the convention. Particularly for developers, social media managers, marketing/sponsorship managers, etc. they are going to have a massive inbox to cleanout due to being away from the event. If you give them a few days to a week, then when you do send the email, it is more likely to be at the top of their inbox, rather than a massive pile right after.

Connection makes the world go round. So follow-up.

Make Some More Plans

What are you going to do with this amazing experience now that it has concluded? Make a plan.

What people do you need to continue to follow up with intermittently? Make a schedule.

What games were you excited to play? When do they launch? When will you start playing them?

When is the next gathering/industry event/convention that you want to attend? Do you need to book your tickets?

If you’re a content creator: Are you planning to share this experience with your community? How?

If you’ve stuck around this long to make it all the way through this guide, you deserve some sort of medal…. or honor… or “Achievement Unlocked!” pop-up notification.

But with all that being said, the #1 tip or piece of advice that I can give to you guys, is to just make this experience entirely your OWN. Take the tips from this guide that you want to and feel suit you, and disregard whatever doesn’t make sense.

Do what works best for, YOU, you good-lookin’ superstar.

Good luck, and go crush it!

xoxo,

Heaven

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