After the first day of the BlogHer conference, everyone was having a great time and enjoying meeting other bloggers. The food bloggers were having the most fun (according to those of us who met up, of course), despite the fact that the food hardly improved at all the second day. The biggest change was that fresh fruit was offered at each snack/meal, which everyone seemed to appreciate. But even though were talked about the food, everyone was more interested in learning about other blogs and what things inspired people to start blogging in the first place.

Along with the established bloggers, like those from Simply Recipes, Kalyn's Kitchen, Chez Pim, Cupcake Bakeshop, Gastronomie-SF and so many others, there were lots of people who simply read blogs and wanted ideas and advice on how to start their own. Here is a quick rundown of our tips for starting a food blog:

• Pick a topic, like cooking or restaurant reviewing. You're allowed to change your mind once you start, but it's a good idea to have a goal in mind to get you motivated.
• Read other food blogs, both for inspiration and to start to ease yourself into the community.
• Buy a camera and take lots of pictures. They don't have to be perfect, but pictures will help draw readers (and you'll get better over time).
• Our number one tip is to simply start writing! Don't sit there and think about it to the point where you never do anything.

The conference was wonderful and, on a personal note, I'd like to say thanks to everyone who let me know that they read (and enjoy!) Slashfood. We all love writing for you guys - and maybe I'll see you next year at the BlogHer '07, where there will hopefully be better food to go along with the excellent company!