If you’re getting ready for our biggest event of the year, Southern Adoornments Live, you might be asking yourself, “What do I actually need to bring?” 

Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! I’ve gathered some of the best packing tips straight from our Painter’s Clubhouse community and past SA Live attendees. These ladies are seasoned pros who know exactly what makes a crafting trip smooth, comfy, and fun!

But first, a quick reminder: You really don’t have to bring anything to SA Live. We provide all the craft projects, tools, and supplies you’ll need. That said, we all have our little creature comforts — our favorite paintbrush, a cozy sweater, maybe a snack tucked away. 

So let’s go through some ideas to make sure you’re extra prepared and comfortable!

Crafting Tools to Bring to Southern Adoornments Live

Here are some community favorites: 

• Favorite Paintbrushes: If you’ve got a brush you can’t live without, bring it along! Just make sure your name is on it, so if it accidentally wanders off, you can find it.
• Paint Pens: We don’t provide these at SA Live, so bring your own if you like to use them.
• Cordless Glue Gun: Not required, but if you’re the “have glue gun, will travel” type, pack it up!
• Scissors and Adhesives: We’ll have scissors on hand, but if you have a favorite pair, bring them. Same with glue — if you’ve got a go-to, toss it in your bag.
• Masking or Painter’s Tape: Handy for stripes or crisp edges.
• Sponge Pouncers and Dipping Dotties: If these are part of your regular painting routine, bring them!
• Fine Mist Spray Bottle: Great for keeping paints workable.
• Rechargeable Desk Light: Helpful if you need extra light on your project.
• Tissues and Baby Wipes: We’ll have wipes at each table, but if you go through a ton of them, it’s worth bringing an extra pack.
  

Now, I want to remind you that none of these are necessary. They’re just what our crafty community members love to have on hand to make painting easier!

Comfort Items for the Conference Room

Craft tools aren’t the only thing you’ll want to bring to Southern Adoornments Live. Conference rooms can be unpredictable when it comes to temperature and lighting. A few things that help:

• Neck Fan or Battery-Powered Fan: Whether it’s for cooling yourself off or speeding up drying time, fans are always a hit.
• Light Jacket or Cardigan: Perfect if the AC gets chilly.
• Water Bottle: You can bring your tumbler with water (just not outside drinks like Starbucks cups).
• Hard Candies or Lozenges: The AC can dry out your throat, so these are great to have on hand.

Other Essentials to Consider When Packing

Aside from the tools and comfort items you’ll want to bring, there are a few miscellaneous items I recommend packing:

• Apron: To protect your clothes from paint splatters.
• Spending money (and maybe an extra suitcase!): You’ll definitely want to shop at the vendor booths. Trust me, you’re going to find things to take home!
• A Good Attitude: SA Live is all about community, encouragement, and fun. We’re not there to be perfect, so come ready to laugh, hug, and create unforgettable memories! 

Missed Your Chance to Join us at Southern Adoornments Live?

At the end of the day, you don’t need to stress about packing for SA Live. Bring what makes you feel comfortable, prepared, and excited to paint. If you’re joining us this year, we can’t wait to see you! And if not, maybe this will inspire you to plan ahead for the next one.

Stay tuned: More details about Southern Adoornments Live 2026 are coming soon! But for now, you can see all the general details about SA Live here.