Meet ups, Tweet ups – huh? Events now come in many different shapes and names and have become a popular format for connecting bloggers that interact on a regular basis through social media tools.

"The Bi-Annual NYFW Media Mixer is the premiere event for bloggers and online media to connect and network to connect with the best brands in the industry". Press Release.

Established beauty expert and blogger Lianne Farbes of The Make Up Girl and Paul Barandam, executive publisher/editor of online magazine Beyond Beauty Basics created the BiAnnual NYFW Media Mixer, and hosted their second event on Saturday Feb 13th at ION’s Studio in Soho. The event was a huge success with a guest list that closed by the end of January. They were also able to secure an extensive list of sponsors with the main spot secured by Secret for Women. Other sponsors included Tarte Cosmetics, Ted Gibson Beauty (he was hanging out with bloggers & taking pictures), Lierac Skincare, Phyto Haircare, Suave Beauty, La Roche-Posay , PH8 , Vichy Skincare, Stila Cosmetics, Zeno, Gillette Venus, Zoya Nail Polish & Treatments (plus Prosecco and Moscato provided the drinks). ION Studio, a boutique, environmentally friendly hair salon / art gallery hosted over 200 people without a problem. There was a very interesting vibe in the room, a mix of college reunion and speed dating. Many were hugging and dancing while others were mingling and putting faces to Twitter/Blog names. I had a great time, made new friends and even got a ride home with @coutorture (who I met through @kraseybeauty and @thebeautychick3). The four of us had a great chat about their experiences blogging, adnetworks, Fashion Week leaving Bryant Park, etc. Not to mention that we were sent home with a pretty heavy goodie bag including very generous full size products from the sponsors. 

Several brands were represented by their communications, online teams and/or their PR agencies and even founders (Ted Gibson and Karen Robinovitz, Purple Labs). However, I still went home wondering why there weren’t more marketers there. Bloggers are great media outlets, but more importantly, they are the source of priceless insights and product feedback. They are the uber educated consumer. A  brand manager and product developer’s dream! PR/Communications teams need to make this connection. ASAP! It will be the best win win situation.