On November 1st, approximately 40 bloggers, photographers, and interested parties gathered to discover Connecticut’s Official #Instameet #letsmeetct.  Did you just way “what’s that”?

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The Connecticut Office of Tourism in partnership with Janeivy Hilario partnered for a photowalk in historic, Essex, CT starting at the Gazebo at Essex park and then heading towards the Griswold Inn, the Connecticut River Museum and onto the RiverView Cemetary for spectacular foliage and waterfront views.  Creator of @explore.ct, Janeivy Hilario @neivy led the walk and shared some of his best Instagram tips.

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An Instagram meet up in my hometown? Of course I had to check this out!  It was great fun to meet so many talented and passionate photographers just discovering Essex, CT for the very first time.  People travelled from New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts and the far corners of Connecticut for the opportunity to explore a new area, compare cameras, meet some of their favorite Instagrammers and snap some beautiful images all while making new friends.  At the end of the walk we all gathered back at the Griswold Inn for a happy hour and opportunity to upload and #hashtag our photos.

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I was impressed with this meet-up!  I made new connections, learned some tips for Instagram and was able to share my passion for my hometown with the attendees.

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Thanks to @ctvisit & @neivy for coordinating!  I am looking forward to joining in on future events and perhaps creating an #Instameet / #letsmeetct campaign for a client.

My images are a just a teaser, check out true talent from the #letsmeetct pros on Instagram here!

– Sarah