The word 'Instameet' surfaced 11 years ago. In the early days of Instagram, people with Instagram accounts began exploring their cities together to take photos and connect. Instagram tracks the major meet-ups and last year alone there were more than 1,000 Instameets in 70 countries!
It's safe to say it's more than a passing trend.
'Minnstameets' are specifically for Minnesotans that have an Instagram account and an interest in meeting face-to-face. I've been to several Minnstameets since returning to Minnesota, many with my husband David who has been so supportive of my interest and goals with the local Instagram community. In August, 2014, I hosted one of the events. It was a Picnic at Regional Lake Park in Eden Prairie, a gorgeous afternoon for grilling, a keg, games for kids, frost-your-own cookies in the shape of Minnesota, lots of hellos and hugs and a memorable sunset. About 75 Instagramers were there and while the timing was a bit daunting with David coming home from another hospitalization six days prior to the picnic (gulp) we are happy it worked out with the help of others.
Minnstameets are welcoming experiences. We meet at a designated location but tend to move around looking for interesting places or structures to take pictures. All are welcome! You are welcome!! There are people new to taking pictures, people that make a living taking pictures, small business owners, stay-at-home parents, artists, large business owners, woodworkers, students.....all you need is an Instagram account.
I took these pictures at the Walker Art Center Sculpture Garden in Minneapolis, where we celebrated the 11th Worldwide Instameet Day in March, 2015. Well, all except the last image which was taken by a drone.
