Last weekend, I attended the Becoming Conference in Black Mountain. Located just outside Asheville, NC at Ridgecrest Conference Center.
The journey to the Becoming Conference was as much a part of the experience as the event itself. Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Black Mountain, North Carolina, just a stone’s throw from the vibrant city of Asheville, the Ridgecrest Conference Center promised an escape, a pause, and an opportunity for profound personal growth. This eagerly anticipated event was dedicated to empowering women to embrace their full potential, offering a unique blend of practical advice, heartfelt inspiration, and a strong sense of community. My own path to securing a spot at this gathering was filled with unexpected twists, reflecting the very essence of ‘becoming’ – a process of overcoming doubts and embracing new possibilities along the way.
The Unexpected Path to Becoming: From Sold Out to Secured Spot
My first encounter with the idea of the Becoming Conference occurred on June 13, at 7 am. An email notification popped up, announcing a new post from The Nester, a blogger whose insights into home and life I deeply admired. Clicking over, I discovered the exciting announcement for the Becoming Conference. My immediate reaction was a surge of enthusiasm, quickly followed by disappointment when I called to register only to find it was completely sold out. I dutifully left my name on what felt like an impossibly long waiting list, convinced it was a lost cause and that attending was simply not going to happen. Yet, fate, it seems, had a different plan. Miraculously, just 20 minutes later, my phone rang. They had opened up more rooms, creating additional space for eager attendees. “I’m going!” I exclaimed, the unexpected turn of events filling me with a renewed sense of excitement. This sudden change felt like a true sign, a whisper telling me this experience was indeed meant for me, despite my initial hesitations and the seemingly insurmountable odds.
Conquering Pre-Conference Jitters: Overcoming Doubts on the Road to Self-Discovery
Several months passed after that initial burst of excitement, and with them, the immediate urgency of “becoming anything” faded into the background of daily life. As the conference date drew closer, specifically the Wednesday before Becoming on Friday, August 12, a new wave of apprehension washed over me. “I’m NOT going,” I convinced myself. The prospect of attending alone, the long drive through the mountains, and the thought of being one face among 600 people – all seemed overwhelmingly intimidating. My primary motivation for considering attendance was to see The Nester speak, but the idea of being so far back in the vast auditorium that she’d appear as an “ant” felt disheartening. Furthermore, I didn’t know the other featured speakers or follow their blogs, which amplified my sense of potential isolation. This internal battle continued through Thursday, August 11. Despite my profound doubts and reluctance, the practical reality that I had already paid for the conference served as a quiet, stubborn motivator. I grudgingly began to get my suitcase ready, telling myself it was “just in case I change my mind and go.” It was a tentative step, a flicker of hope that the experience might still be worthwhile, perhaps even necessary for me.
Friday, August 12 morning: The Final Push Towards Becoming
The morning of the conference arrived with a familiar mix of lingering self-doubt and a growing sense of anticipation. “Why didn’t I do more to prepare, so I could leave earlier?” I chastised myself, rushing through final tasks and feeling a touch disorganized. Yet, despite the scramble and the minor frustrations of a rushed departure, the car was packed, and I was finally on my way to the Becoming Conference. The scenic drive through the North Carolina mountains offered a beautiful, calming prelude to the anticipated weekend, slowly easing my anxieties and replacing them with a more profound sense of purpose. Each mile brought me closer not just to the physical location, but to a potential shift in perspective and personal growth.
Arrival and First Connections: Finding Solace in Shared Solitude and Community
By Friday at 3 pm, I pulled into the familiar grounds of Ridgecrest. The conference center held a nostalgic charm for me, as my son (affectionately known as Manboy) had worked at Camp Ridgecrest during previous summers, filling its corridors and outdoor spaces with his youthful energy. Seeing other women arriving, some in pairs, some in small groups of three or four, getting out of their vehicles and heading in to register, stirred my initial anxiety once more. “Am I going to be the only loner here?” I wondered, the thought of navigating such a large event by myself feeling daunting. As I headed inside to register, however, a sense of relief washed over me when I spotted another woman ahead of me, alone just like myself. Striking up a conversation, I confessed my fear of being the sole solitary attendee. Her response was both surprising and incredibly reassuring: she was actually looking forward to the solitude, embracing it as a peaceful “Me” time, a precious opportunity for personal reflection away from daily demands. A genuine smile spread across my face. “Yeah, me too!” I exclaimed, instantly feeling a connection and realizing that many women, despite the communal setting, sought a moment of personal rejuvenation and introspection. This initial, quiet connection set a positive tone for the entire weekend.
The grand Entrance beckoned, promising new experiences and fostering a sense of community from the moment I arrived.
Collecting my personalized name tag, the comprehensive conference agenda, and a bag full of thoughtful welcoming goodies filled me with a quiet sense of anticipation for the weekend ahead.
I found a quiet corner, settled down, and eagerly looked through the contents of my welcome bag, a treasure trove of information and small gifts designed to enhance the conference experience.
My welcome bag, a thoughtfully curated collection designed to equip and inspire attendees throughout the conference.
My room, a peaceful sanctuary offering a much-needed space for rest and reflection after a day filled with inspiring sessions and new connections.
The breathtaking view from my window, a constant reminder of the majestic natural beauty surrounding the Ridgecrest Conference Center.
Numerous serene spots were thoughtfully provided around the campus, inviting attendees to pause, reflect, and engage in quiet conversation, enhancing the overall experience of personal retreat.
Dinner and Discoveries: Becoming Content with Who We Are and Embracing Life’s Adventures
At Friday 5 pm, I made my way to dinner, greeted by an enticing buffet spread that promised a delightful culinary experience. Having successfully lost 30 pounds this year, I had to remind myself to navigate the delicious options mindfully, a small personal victory I wasn’t about to compromise. I found a seat at a table with two sisters, and it was here that a profound part of my “Becoming” journey truly began. They spoke openly about their difficult relationship with their mother, sharing how nothing they did ever seemed good enough for her. Listening, I found myself silently praying, hoping my own daughter wouldn’t harbor similar sentiments, and momentarily wished I could call her, apologize, and ask if I had ever been “that bad.” Their vulnerability was disarming, but their subsequent stories were incredibly uplifting. They shared how, later in life, they decided to pursue long-held dreams they had previously deferred: Sister 1 proudly graduated from college at the age of 60, proving that it’s never too late to achieve educational aspirations, and Sister 2 courageously earned her motorcycle license and now confidently rides a Harley, embracing a spirit of adventure. Their inspiring courage sparked a vital question within me: What have I always wanted to do but never pursued? They also recounted their seemingly long three-hour drive to Asheville, which delightfully morphed into an eight-hour joyful expedition because they spontaneously stopped at scenic waterfalls, charming thrift stores, and wherever else their hearts desired. We spent the next few hours together, laughing, sharing stories, and connecting on a deeply human level. It was then I knew, unequivocally, that making this trip was the right decision. This initial connection solidified a key theme of the conference: Becoming content with who we are, flaws and all, and embracing the journey of life with open arms and a sense of adventure.
Jen, captivating the audience with her engaging presentation style and relatable wisdom, truly embodying the spirit of inspiration.
Inspiring Keynotes: Practical Wisdom and Empowering Messages for Modern Women
The Friday 7 pm Keynote Welcome introduced us to Jen and Jenny, two dynamic speakers who immediately commanded attention and captivated the entire audience. My internal monologue wondered where I had been, questioning why I wasn’t already following their incredibly insightful blogs. They were natural motivators, effortlessly blending humor with profound life lessons that resonated deeply with the diverse group of women gathered. Jen, from Balancing Beauty and Bedlam, delivered a particularly memorable presentation using various hats to brilliantly illustrate the myriad roles women juggle daily: chauffeur, housekeeper, bookkeeper, lover, confidante, and countless others. Her performance was so relatable and hilariously true that I wished she would immediately upload it to YouTube – every husband and child should watch it to truly understand why “our heads spin around” sometimes! Beyond the humor, she offered practical, actionable advice on “power cooking,” emphasizing the benefits of buying local produce and building relationships with your butcher to support local economies and ensure fresh ingredients. Her focus on efficiency, community, and mindful living resonated deeply, encouraging a more intentional and balanced approach to managing our homes and lives. (I highly recommend checking out her website: Balancing Beauty and Bedlam for more invaluable inspiration and practical tips).
Following Jen, Jenny from Southern Savers took the stage. While widely known for her unparalleled expertise in couponing and saving money, Jenny brilliantly shifted the focus beyond mere financial savings, emphasizing the profound importance of family and setting clear, actionable priorities in all aspects of life. Her speaking style was engaging, authentic, and incredibly effective, drawing everyone in with her warmth and practical wisdom. Among her many valuable tips, a few stood out as particularly impactful: stopping procrastination by tackling tasks that can be completed in under one minute, acting the way you wish you felt to proactively shift your mindset, and a powerful personal practice – upon returning home, make a conscious effort to find one thing your husband did and praise him “to the high heavens” (a note-to-self I committed to implementing daily for improved marital harmony). Jenny truly provided a holistic approach to managing not just finances, but also time and relationships, making her an invaluable resource, especially for savvy couponing strategies and family budgeting. Her website, Southern Savers, is a treasure trove of information for anyone looking to save smart and live well.
The evening was packed with even more wisdom, inspiring stories, and concluded with an uplifting movie, leaving everyone feeling invigorated, deeply reflective, and eagerly anticipating the next day’s sessions. I already found myself hoping to return next year to soak in more of this transformative energy.
Jenny, delivering her empowering message on family and finances, captivating the audience with her genuine passion and practical advice.
Breakfast and Bonding: Becoming Closer Through Shared Stories and Intergenerational Wisdom
Saturday at 7:45 am brought another cherished opportunity for connection and shared experiences over a delicious breakfast spread. I chose to join a table with two beautiful, kind ladies – a mother and daughter whose warmth and camaraderie were immediately apparent. Their infectious energy drew me in, and I spent the next two hours engrossed in their delightful stories, which ranged from the joys and challenges of raising children to expert couponing tips and so much more. Our conversation flowed effortlessly, creating an instant bond that felt both natural and profound. Their loving dynamic and shared experiences made me keenly wish my own daughter was there to share the unique and inspiring experience of the conference. I immediately resolved that next year, I would “bribe” her – or rather, persuade her with promises of shared wisdom, fun, and perhaps a special mother-daughter retreat – to join me. This heartwarming encounter beautifully highlighted the conference’s remarkable ability to foster profound connections, emphasizing the theme of Becoming closer not just to newly met acquaintances, but also to our loved ones, strengthening family bonds through shared inspiration and personal growth. These moments of intimate connection were just as valuable as the formal sessions.
Choosing My Path: A Deep Dive into Becoming Creative, Purposeful, and Frugal
The Saturday 8:30 am Large Group session presented a delightful dilemma: choosing from an impressive selection of 15 breakout sessions, expertly led by 5 incredible speakers, all organized under three overarching themes designed for holistic personal development: Becoming Creative, Becoming Purposeful, and Becoming Frugal. Each session promised unique insights and actionable strategies, making the selection process challenging yet exciting. After much deliberation and careful consideration of my own personal growth goals, I meticulously curated my schedule to maximize my learning from the speakers I admired most. My thoughtfully chosen sessions were:
- “Live the 80% off Lifestyle and Love it” with Jen from Balancing Beauty and Bedlam, focusing on smart and stylish frugality.
- “Playing the Drugstore Game” with Jenny from Southern Savers, delving into the art of couponing for maximum savings.
- “Real Decorating For Real Women with Real Budgets” with The Nester, offering practical and accessible home styling tips.
- “The Philosophy of Home” with The Nester, exploring the deeper meaning and purpose of our living spaces.
- “Find, Create, Redo” with Angela from Button Bird Designs, inspiring creativity through upcycling and crafting.
A memorable group photo capturing the vibrant energy of Jen, Jenny, The Nester, Angela, and Rachel – the incredible women behind the day’s transformative and inspiring sessions.
Unpacking the Wisdom: Key Takeaways and Profound Shifts from Expert Speakers
Each chosen session offered a wealth of practical advice, profound perspective shifts, and a renewed sense of inspiration. Thanks to Jen’s engaging session, I now feel incredibly confident and chic wearing my “thrifty Fashionista wardrobe,” and I’m genuinely inspired to incorporate more scarves and statement jewelry into my everyday style to elevate simple outfits. Her emphasis on finding beauty and value in what’s affordable and accessible completely changed my outlook on personal style, proving that elegance doesn’t require a high price tag. Jenny’s “Playing the Drugstore Game” session had me eagerly searching for Sunday newspapers with a newfound purpose, only to realize (with a slight chuckle) that there isn’t a CVS in my specific town! But her strategies were easily adaptable, and I now look forward to applying her expert couponing techniques at Rite Aid and Walgreens, eager to maximize my savings on essential household items and personal care products.
My two sessions with The Nester were particularly impactful, offering much food for thought on how I perceive and present my home. She gently but powerfully encouraged us to never apologize for our homes, reminding us that doing so can inadvertently make us seem ungrateful for the blessings we possess. Her powerful mantra, “It doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful,” resonated deeply within me, freeing me from the burdensome pressure of unattainable aesthetic perfection. She also playfully challenged us to “not stereotype our furniture,” humorously suggesting that dressers, for instance, are versatile pieces not confined solely to bedrooms, but can serve beautifully in dining rooms or entryways. These liberating insights encouraged me to embrace imperfection, foster greater creativity, and cultivate a more authentic sense of self in my own living space.
Angela from Button Bird Designs was an absolute artist, truly an “angel” of creativity. Her profound passion for her work was palpable; you could truly see the love, care, and imagination infused into every unique piece she created. She even shared that her heart “flutters” (a sentiment I deeply share and instantly recognized!) whenever she discovers an ordinary object with untapped creative potential, eager to transform it. Her blog, Button Bird Designs, is a must-visit for anyone interested in transforming recycled materials into beautiful, meaningful art and distinctive home decor. While I regrettably didn’t make it to Rachel’s sessions – with so many amazing choices, prioritization was key, and I simply couldn’t attend them all – I learned that Rachel, a remarkable mother of 11, shared invaluable wisdom on intentional living and embracing life to its fullest. Her perspective on managing a large family with grace and purpose undoubtedly offered immense value, and I sincerely hope she returns next year so I can benefit from her unique and inspiring insights.
The Nester, a beacon of authenticity and inspiration, captivates her audience with her relatable insights and engaging presence, making every attendee feel seen and valued.
Lunchtime Reflections: Becoming Passionate and Giving Through Everyday Interactions
During Saturday Lunch at 12:15 pm, nestled perfectly between Session 3 and Session 4, I had the pleasure of sitting with two more remarkable young ladies whose stories further enriched my conference experience. One, whom I affectionately dubbed “the happy giver,” was a married woman with an incredible passion for couponing. She strategically acquired all the extra freebies and “money-maker” items, not for her own consumption, but to generously give them away to those in need, local charities, or deserving friends and family. Her selflessness was truly inspiring, showcasing how frugality can cleverly fuel profound generosity and make a tangible difference in the community. The other, “the newlywed,” kept glancing at her phone, her thoughts clearly with her husband who was just returning from a trip as she left for the conference. Her sweet longing for him, evident in every subtle glance at her device, brought back a flood of nostalgic memories for me, reminding me of those early, passionate days in my own marriage. It was a beautiful and gentle nudge to “revive those thoughts” and actively rekindle that spark and passion in my current relationship. These deeply personal and candid interactions over lunch reinforced another powerful facet of the conference: Becoming passionate and giving – in our relationships, in our communities, and in the intentional choices we make in our daily lives, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary connections.
Angela’s exquisite mixed media work, a testament to her unique artistic vision, her profound skill, and her commitment to sustainable creativity through upcycling.
One of Angela’s most captivating creations: a mixed media house, full of intricate details, unexpected textures, and undeniable charm, truly reflecting her artistic spirit.
The Nester, captivating a vast audience from the stage, sharing her heartfelt philosophy and engaging the attentive crowd with her genuine and relatable insights.
A truly cherished moment: standing alongside The Nester, whose inspiring work and authentic voice were a significant catalyst for my journey to this transformative conference.
A Transformative Experience: Embracing the Enduring Spirit of Becoming
Looking back at the entire weekend, I am overwhelmingly glad that I made the decision, despite my initial doubts and anxieties, to attend the Becoming Conference. It surpassed all my expectations, evolving into a truly transformative experience that touched me on multiple levels. Not only did I gain invaluable knowledge and practical tips from the thoughtfully planned and expertly delivered sessions, but I also discovered immense wisdom and forged heartfelt connections through the myriad conversations with strangers who, by the end of the event, quickly became cherished friends. The entire conference was a powerful catalyst for personal reflection, profound growth, and a renewed sense of purpose.
A definite highlight, a moment I had eagerly anticipated, was finally meeting my favorite blogger, The Nester, in person. Her warm, genuine hug and her willingness to pause and take a picture with me made me feel truly important and seen, even amidst the bustling crowd of 600 inspiring women. Her authenticity, both on her blog and in person, is truly remarkable and deeply resonant. The Becoming Conference was more than just a series of lectures and workshops; it was an immersive journey into self-discovery, community building, and practical empowerment, leaving every attendee feeling more capable, more connected, and more confident in their unique journey of “becoming.”
This post, though extensive in its detail, only scratches the surface of how truly wonderful, enriching, and profoundly impactful the Becoming Conference was. It was an event that beautifully wove together threads of self-discovery, fostered strong community bonds, and provided tangible tools for practical empowerment. It left me, and I believe many others, feeling more capable, more connected, and more confident in navigating our individual paths of “becoming” who we are meant to be. I sincerely hope my detailed account has done a little justice to the vibrant spirit and lasting impact of this incredible gathering. It was truly more than just a conference; it was a pivotal journey into embracing our authentic selves and aspiring towards a life filled with purpose and passion.
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