momstown 2011: Who We Are, and Who We Will Be

momstown. For some it's weekly playgroups at members houses, organized moms' nights out, and field trips with other parents and their kids. For others, momstown is a message board where they can go at two in the morning for advice on what to do with their feverish newborn, and a place where they can find out about great events and businesses for parents and children in their local community. Still others think of momstown as a website with arts, crafts, meal ideas,contests, and product reviews and recommendations.

The particular momstown experience may be unique to each member, but the essence of each experience is the same: real moms, connecting with other real moms. As some of you know, I traveled to the Greater Toronto area last weekend to attend the semi-annual momstown conference. The conference is an opportunity for the momstown leadership team to meet face to face, but it is so much more than just a social gathering. The essence of the November 2011 momstown conference was the same as the essence of momstown itself. It was real moms gathering from across Canada to learn from each other, to share their vision for the organization, and to develop concrete plans to execute that vision.  

We were fortunate to be able to meet in the beautiful offices of Jan Kelly Marketing, where we attended a variety of sessions including a brand workshop lead by the inspirational Mary Fearon and Krista Kay, Communications Director and an Account Director of Jan Kelley, respectively, a primer on public relations presented by Alison Burke of Impressions Public Relations, as well as seminars on topics such as effective blogging and marketing training. 

We also had the chance to visit the head offices of some of our strategic partners and friends.  Our first stop was to Kids' CBC,  where we had the opportunity to tour the Caboose Cafe set and hear a special message from Patty and Mamma Yamma.

We were also able to see the original tree-house from Mr. Dressup, and attend a live taping of an episode of Steven and Chris.

Our next stop was to Fisher Price Canada, where we were able to learn about their corporate culture and history, and to hear their plans for 2012.  We also got to preview and play with some of their great new toys:

These on-site visits allowed us to learn more about some of the organizations that share our goal of enriching and enhancing the lives of Canadian parents and children, and to brainstorm ideas for how we can continue to work together to achieve that goal.  We each went home with some great bags of goodies too:

(the adorable preschooler was unfortunately not included)

I was blown away by the depth of experience within our own team.  Our leaders are motivated, passionate, and caring, and I have no doubt that they will take what they have learned and go back to their local communities filled with fresh ideas, inspiration, and motivation to make the momstown experience even better for each parent and child who connects with us.  If you have enjoyed being part of momtown so far, you will love what we have planned for this next year.  If you have not joined yet, you will want to do so soon. We have great things in store, so keep your eyes on us in 2012!