FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What does OC/BC mean? Who is sponsoring this conference?
A: OC/BC simply refers to the Orange County Beach Cities Single Adult Coordinating Council comprising of all 16 stakes in Orange County.
Q: What’s the age range for this conference?
A: This conference is for singles 31 on up. However there will be some optional separate activities for each “decade” (30s Midsingles, 40s, 50s, 60+) too. So there’s a little something for everyone.
Q: What’s the age range for each “decade”? If I’m on the cusp between decades, which decade group can I attend?
A: Here’s the breakdown for each decade:
30s Midsingles (31-early40s)
40s Singles (late30s/40s)
50s Singles (late40s/50s)
Elite Singles 60+
There’s a little overlap so if you are on the cusp you can attend either decade group. We ask everyone to respect the age ranges. No worries…there are plenty of other all-age 31+ activities where everyone has the opportunity to meet everyone else.
Q: What's the difference between the Orange County Single Adult Conference in August and the Huntington Beach Midsingles Conference in May?
A: Here in Orange County, we are blessed to have two conferences. In May, there's the Huntington Beach 30-something Midsingles Conference (ages 27-42) sponsored by the Huntington Beach 1st Ward Midsingles. In August, there's the Orange County Single Adult Conference (all-age 31+, with optional "decade" group activities") sponsored by all 16 Orange County Stakes (including Huntington Beach Stake). Both conferences complement and support each other. Most local Midsingles actually attend both conferences.
Q: Isn’t this an “older” conference? Will 30s Midsingles actually be attending? If I’m in my late 20s, can I attend?
A: Actually, this year with both all-age and specific “decade” group activities, we expect much more singles from each decade attending. So expect at least third to half of the crowd being singles in their 30s and early 40s. So far, the average age of people registering for this conference is only 42! That means half the people registered are in their 30s, and half the crowd is over 42. Very Midsingles friendly! While this conference is mainly for singles 31 on up, singles in their late 20s, who want to dip their toes into the Single Adult scene, can attend.
If you are a Midsingle in your late 20s to early 40s, just because you may attend a Midsingles Ward and/or Midsingles only activities, doesn't mean you can't also expand your social circle and support the cause by attending an all-age 31+ activity like this conference too once in a while. You'll be surprised how Midsingles friendly this conference will be.
Q: I’m a little leery attending all-age 31+ activities for fear of being hit on by people twice my age. How can I meet people of a similar age at this conference?
A: We encourage you to attend our Friday night Dinner Kick-off at Doheny State Beach before the Friday night dance. When you arrive at the registration desk, you will be directed to picnic games separated by decades (30s Midsingles, 40s, 50s, 60+) allowing you to meet people of a similar age. Plus at both dances, there will be speed mingling rounds by decades, some workshops by age, a dedicated 30s Midsingles Lounge, and optional restaurant dinner groups for each decade on Saturday as well. We’re taking out the guesswork, so you don’t have to feel like the odd man out and are able meet people of a similar age at this conference.
Q: I’m older in my 60s or beyond, and typically no one in my age attends these things. Will anyone in my age be attending this year?
A: Yes, we have optional specific activities just for Elite Singles 60+ including speed mingling, a restaurant dinner group, and an excursion to the Five Star Montage Resort in Laguna Beach allowing you an opportunity to meet other singles in their 60s. We anticipate having a good and active crowd of Elite Singles 60+ attending. Of course, at the same time, there are other all-age 31+ activities you can choose to participate as well.
Q. This conference sounds great and I really wanna go! But I really don't know anyone, and I'm a little nervous going alone, any suggestions?
A. First of all, you are not alone in feeling this. Over 60% of those who registered so far, are attending the OC Conference this year for the first time. Perhaps unlike your prior experiences either at other singles activities, conferences, or horror flashbacks from your youth dances in your teens, this Orange County Singles Conference has several smaller activities planned throughout the weekend -- from the picnic and mingle games in Doheny Beach, to all the other activities at both dances like Speed Mingling, karaoke, game rooms, chill lounges (including one for Midsingles), music lounges, mingle activities, to the Saturday afternoon activities, to the Saturday Dinner Groups, etc. where everyone has an opportunity to meet people in smaller group settings.
Plus this year, new to the OC Conference, we plan to have a group of "Hosts" who are also fellow singles just like you, to help introduce you to other like-minded singles during the weekend and answer any questions.
You can also coordinate carpools and rooms beforehand with other singles by joining our OC Conference Facebook Group. http://bit.ly/occonf
But ultimately we all need to stretch, be proactive, and go out of our comfort zone, and within no time, you will be able to meet and mingle with singles from all over the U.S. and beyond who are attending the OC Conference.
Q: If this year’s schedule is having some “decade” group activities, how will I know which activity is all-age 31+ or for my “decade”?
A: Unless an activity has a stated age range, all the other activities are all-age 31+.
Q: With all the decade group activities, sounds like I'm being forced into only hanging out with people of my age or older. Can I attend activities for people of all ages?
A: Aside from the beginning in the few 20-30 minutes at the Friday Dinner where people are separated into playing different picnic games by decades, just as an ice breaker to meet new people, the rest of the conference has an all-age 31+ option.
So during the speed mingling rounds (by decades) if you choose, you can just attend the all-age dance, music lounge, karaoke lounge, game room, etc instead. This year we also have an all-age 31+ Speed Mingling Round too. Out of the 12 or 14 workshops being offered, a few of the workshops for one hour is age specific for 30s Midsingles. Held at the same time, all the other workshops are all-age 31+ for you to attend as well.
Saturday afternoon if you are in your 60s you can choose to attend the all-age Beach Party in Huntington Beach, Kayaking at Newport Harbor, or Hiking at Crystal Cove State Beach -- or your own Elite Singles 60+ activity to the Montage Resort, or free time on your own. For dinner on Saturday night, you can choose to attend the all-age 31+ Dinner and Entertainment at the Anaheim Stake Center or choose to attend your decade restaurant dinner group (since we can't accomondate everyone together in the cultural hall during dinner).
Some singles prefer all-age activities; some singles like attending optional decade group activities too. Recently Elder Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve spoke here in SoCal to Midsingles confirming that "the Singles Program is NOT an one-size-fits-all program" and also agrees to a varying approach.
So providing optional decade group activities, this is not about "discrimination" or "prejudice", but rather trying to provide both approaches (all-age 31+ AND decade group activities) so there's a little something for everyone and better able to reach out to more singles.
Q: Is there a la carte registration?
A: Yes, you can register for the Entire Friday Only, $30, which includes the Beach Party, catered Caribbean Dinner with Caribbean Band and live Carribbean Dance Showcase @ Doheny Beach and Island Themed Dance @ Laguna Niguel Stake Center), or All-day Saturday, $70 (which includes Keynote Speaker, attending the workshops, catered lunch, HB Beach Party, Hiking at Crystal Cove State Beach, or Montage Resort Excursion, Entertainment by Hollywood Magician John George and Broadway Review with Marvin Goldstein & Vanessa Joy, Italian Style Dinner, and Cosmopolitan Themed Dance). Kayaking is extra. You can register for Saturday Workshops and Saturday Lunch only for $38.
Or you can just attend, of course, Sunday Meetings on Sunday for free (a $5 donation is asked if you are attending Sunday only and plan to have Sunday Dinner) . Dances will be $10 for each night. However, we encourage everyone to register for the entire conference, $89. Priority seating during the speed mingling rounds will be given to those who register for the entire conference as well. So it’s best to register sooner than later, as some activities have limited spots available.
Q: Is there a special group discount to Disneyland on Monday, August 8?
A: Yes! This year at the OC Conference we are excited to have a group discount rate to Disneyland. Complete details are found on the Monday Page on the conference website.
Q: I would like to attend the entire conference, but I can't really afford it. Any suggestions?
A: You can partial attend the conference to suit your budget, or proactively put aside a few bucks every paycheck for the next few months to be able to afford to attend the entire conference, or you can contact your Bishop and/or Stake President for financial assistance to help pay for the conference. At least all 16 stakes in Orange County will support their local singles to ensure everyone (regardless of financial need) can attend this amazing conference. However, you can't just show up at the door and say "I'm in financial need".
You will need to work this out with your Bishop beforehand. Your Bishop can mail the check to the address located on the snail mail registration form and you can mail your portion by filling out the snail mail registration form, which you can download from the registration page (not Eventbrite page) with your personal info and conference options.
Q: I’m travelling from outside of the area and not familiar with Orange County. How should I get around to the different events at the conference?
A: Since the events are held all over Orange County, it’s best to carpool with others or rent a car, which is cheaper than taking a taxi. Using public transportation is sporadic and not recommended.
Q: I'm not from Orange County and plan to drive to the conference. When I use Google Maps or Mapquest for directions, there are so many freeways to choose from. Which is the best way to get to Orange County?
A: From points south of Orange County, including San Diego, Tucson, or Mexico, From Tucson, take 10 Fwy N to 8 Fwy W to San Diego. From San Diego, it's 5 Fwy N into Orange County.
From points east of Orange County, including the Inland Empire, Palm Springs, and Phoenix, take 10 Fwy W to 215 Fwy S to 91 Fwy W in Riverside. Continue on the 91, take 55 Fwy S towards Newport Beach.
From points northeast of Orange County, including Victorville, Las Vegas, and Utah, take 15 Fwy S to 91 Fwy W to 55 Fwy S towards Newport Beach.
From points northwest of Orange County, including Los Angeles, Ventura, Central Coast, Central Valley, and Northern California, take 101 Fwy S or 5 Fwy S. Depending on traffic, you can take either the 405 Fwy or 5 Fwy (then 55 Fwy S) in Los Angeles heading into Orange County. Check http://sigalert.com for the latest traffic conditions. Ideally it's best to go through Los Angeles by 2 pm to avoid Friday night traffic heading into the OC. :)
**For everyone, please refer to the Friday Page for insider driving tips to our first OC Conference activity at Doheny Beach in Dana Point. **
Q: How do I coordinate with others in sharing rides or rooms?
A: The easiest way to coordinate with others to share rides or rooms is to use the Conference Facebook group. Here’s the link. http://bit.ly/occonf
Q: Can I stay at members' houses?
A: Due to the size of the conference, we can't accommodate everyone in members' houses during the conference. A few members are offering their homes for the conference. But we encourage you to use the hotel page on the conference website, and you can coordinate with others to share rooms on the Conference Facebook Group. Here's the link. http://bit.ly/occonf
Q: Why am I being asked for my age range on the registration page?
A: To better plan the decade group activities and to double check identity if there are different people having the same name. It also helps the planners of the conference to know which demographic is attending or not and how to better serve everyone. Bring your I.D., just in case, so that at the registration desk we can verify your name with the registration list.
Q: How do the Saturday Night "Decade" Restaurant Dinner Groups work?
A: Here at the Orange County Singles Conference, we are all about options. :) When you register for the conference, you are given the option to attend the all-age 31+ Saturday Night Dinner at the Anaheim Stake Center, which includes after-dinner entertainment by Hollywood Magician John George and a short Broadway Review from Marvin Goldstein and Vanessa Joy. The all-age 31+ Dinner and Entertainment are included in the conference price, if you registered for the Entire Conference or All-day Saturday ticket.
However, since not all 1,200 singles can fit into the cultural hall together during dinner, and since some people prefer smaller group settings as a chance to get to know people better (as opposed to sitting with your friends in the same table in the cultural hall), we are offering at the same time, optional restaurant dinner groups for each decade -- 30s Midsingles, 40s Singles, 50s Singles and Elite Singles 60+.
**This restaurant group option is available to those who register for the entire conference or all-day Saturday ticket. There may be a few extra restaurant dinner group tickets (first come, first served) available to those who registered for just the Saturday Workshops and Lunch.**
Currently 40-50% of those registered are choosing the decade restaurant group option. (Most 30s Midsingles are choosing their 30s Midsingles restaurant groups). Do expect restaurants to be well-known restaurants (like a California Pizza Kitchen, Claim Jumper, Lazy Dog Cafe, Red Robin, etc) located near the beach or hotel in Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, or Irvine, to reduce travel time between the Saturday afternoon activities and the restaurant dinners.
Since we like to keep the groups smaller, each restaurant group will have around 20-25 people per group. There is no set menu -- basically you individually order and pay whatever you ordered. Most restaurants will allow everyone to pay separately. A host (fellow single in your decade from the conference) will be there at each of the restaurants to meet and greet everyone in the group. Look for everyone to have the same OC Conference wristbands and nametags to identify the group.
On Saturday Morning and throughout the Saturday Workshops and Saturday Lunch, we will have a Restaurant Group Registration Table located at the Irvine Stake Center, so that those who registered for their Restaurant Decade Group will receive their ticket with maps, directions, and details about their dinner group. Since we will have multiple restaurant groups for each decade, you can choose (first come, first served) which restaurant you would like to attend. This also allows those who carpooled together to attend the same restaurant. Or you can carpool with new friends you already met at the conference. :) We will have separate male and female tickets to ensure more even M/F ratios at each of the restaurants. Since a lot of men register at the last minute, we will have a few extra male tickets for each dinner.
As stated on the Saturday page, these dinners are NOT...I repeat are NOT...something just optional that you can flake on. Our food budget for the all-age dinner at the Anaheim Stake Center and deposits and reservations for the restaurants are made based on your selection when you register! So if you choose the restaurant group, you are committed in attending your restaurant group. If before the conference and after you registered, you have a change of plans on your dinner group option, just let us know at ocsingleadultconference@hotmail.com so we can update your registration.
Bottomline, Restaurant Dinner Groups at the OC Conference are a great way to meet new friends in a smaller group setting.
Q: What is speed mingling? How it does work? Do I have to speed mingle?
A: This year when you register online (if you are registering for the entire conference), you are given the option to speed mingle during the Friday or Saturday Night dance. Speed Mingling is just a low-key, no-stress way to meet new people and have face-time with singles you may not get a chance to on the dance floor. Think of speed mingling as a simple ice breaker activity. This year, we will be doing 2 minute rounds with 12-15 people (not the entire room) where the women once seated, stay, and then the men rotate every 2 minutes.
We will have a list of fun get-to-know-you questions if you need a little help in the conversation. Remember to keep the topics fun and light. Please do NOT ask uncomfortable questions that's put people on the hot seat such as "What's your story?" or "How long have you been single?" or "Why are you still single?" Discussing serious or heavy topics can be saved for later after the speed mingling round.
Singles in each decade (30s Midsingles, 40s, 50s, 60+) will have its own 30-minute session on both Friday and Saturday Nights. Due to the popularity of speed mingling, we are adding an all-age 31+ round too on Friday. Due to limited seats, if you can’t get in on Friday Night, more than likely, you can speed mingle on Saturday Night. Priority seating is given to those who registered for the entire conference AND registered for speed mingling online.
You will need to check-in at the Speed Mingling Registration Desk (next to the Speed Mingling Lounge) in order secure your spot to attend your speed mingling round. This year to avoid long lines, we are having two lines -- a Fastpass Line for those who registered for speed mingling online, and a Standby Line for those who didn't register for speed mingling or who are paying at the door.
Having your Speed Mingling Fastpass guarantees your seat to attend that Speed Mingling round. The sooner you register for the entire conference online, the easier you can get your Speed Mingling Fastpass.
If there is space available, any woman on the Standby Line can join the speed mingling round if they bring a guy friend (of the same decade age) with them to the round. If the speed mingling round starts and there are a few women waiting on the Standby Line and there is still space available, women in the Standby Line can join the speed mingling during the session once we get a few more men to join us, so that there was always an even M/F ratio.
With over 1,200 Singles attending, we anticipate all the rounds to fill up with even M/F ratios.
After each of the Speed Mingling sessions, the entire room will be escorted to the Reception Lounge where everyone can meet and mingle with those you didn't get a chance to speed mingle with, and that's a great opportunity to exchange any contact info at that time.
While speed mingling is happening during the dance, it’s only an optional activity. Only those interested in speed mingling will be speed mingling. It’s just a fun and easy way to meet people on a different level than you would at other activities.
Please note: When you register for the OC Conference online, and when given the options for the different rounds, if you are a male, you choose the Male option. If you are a female, you choose the Female option. This is for us to know by gender who is attending, not the opposite sex you want to speed mingle. :)
Q: What’s the refund policy for this conference?
A: Those registering from April 1 to May 31 during Early Bird registration can receive a full refund during that time. However, starting June 1, 2011, you can sell or transfer your ticket to someone one else and no refunds will be offered after May 31. If you need to sell your ticket, most people are posting on the OC Conference Facebook Group. http://bit.ly/occonf
Once you sell ticket, just notify us their name and their answers (like address, city, state, age, ward, stake, email, 1st time attending or not, Saturday afternoon options, Saturday Dinner options, Speed Mingling options) that's on the registration page via email before the conference at ocsingleadultconference@hotmail.com so we can update the registration list.
Since the new person may have different conference options (which may have limited spots available), and since we print everyone's name tags before the conference, please send the updated info to us as soon as possible.
Q: How many people are expected to attend?
A: We expect over 1,200 -1,400 Singles from Southern California, the West Coast, and throughout the U.S. to attend at California's largest Single Adult Conference.
Q: Why do I need to register now instead of just showing up at the door?
A: We encourage everyone to register sooner than later as some activities have a limited capacity and will sell out well before the conference.
Unlike some other conferences, this conference is entirely self-funded, meaning early registration helps pay for the cost of the conference. If everyone registers late and/or just shows up at the door, it makes planning for a conference much more difficult to coordinate and budget.
So the earlier everyone registers, the better conference experience we can provide.
***Plus due to the large crowd arriving on Friday Night at the Dinner and Dance, at Registration, there will be two lines – people who pre-registered online and those registering at the door.
Those who pre-registered will be processed a lot faster and able to get in and enjoy the conference quicker. Those arriving at the door having to register on Friday Night may experience a longer line and wait time.
So arrive early on Friday to avoid the long lines, or register online at http://ocbcconference.com ***
Q: If I register for the entire conference, what does my conference price cover?
A: Catered Friday Night Dinner with live entertainment , Friday Night Beach Party, Friday Night Island Themed Dance, Inspiring Workshops, Catered Saturday Lunch, Live Entertainment , Saturday Dinner (31+), Saturday Afternoon Beach Party or Five Star Montage Resort Excursion, Saturday Night Cosmopolitan Themed Dance, and Sunday Dinner. (Both Dances include musicians performing in the Music Lounge; Professional Style Speed Mingling; Karaoke Lounge; Game Lounge including Wii, DDR, Rockband, etc; Professional Photo Studio for group and individual pictures...all of this with completely uplit colored lights used throughout the building giving the ambiance that rivals any reception or dance hall.) So this is NOT your usual no frills monthly church dance fare. Not to mention great Sunday speakers and Sunday Dinner.
Plus, a whole weekend of face time and fun with a 1,200 - 1,400 other Singles…
All of this, for only $89 (Of course, any surfboard or bike rentals at the Saturday Beach Party, Kayaking, the Saturday Decade Restaurant Dinner Group, and the Disneyland After-Party on Monday are extra.)
Q: What’s the dress code for this conference?
A: If you are attending the temple on Thursday night, it’s Sunday attire. On Friday at the dinner at Doheny Beach and at the dance, it’s nice causal. At Doheny, we will be in the grassy pavillion area, far away from the sand. So nice jeans, or nice knee length shorts, yes to sleeves. Saturday during the keynote speaker and workshops, Saturday dinner and dance, it’s also nice causal, no Sunday dress needed. At the Beach Party in Huntington Beach , it’s modest beach attire. For Kayaking in Newport Harbor, it's modest beach or gym attire. For hiking at Crystal Cove State Beach, it's gym or hiking friendly attire. Hiking boots are not required, but a good pair of cross-training or walking shoes will do. And of course, on Sunday, it’s Sunday attire.
Note: The Themed Dances on Friday and Saturday means that the decor is themed, not that your own attire is themed. So the dress code is just nice causal for both nights (perhaps a little "nicer" on Saturday).
Q: How do I register?
A: The best way to register is online by going to the registration page and following the link to our Eventbrite page. However if you prefer, you can print the OC Conference Snail Mail Registration Form on the registration page, and mail in your registration by August 1st. After that, you can register online until Friday, August 5, 3 pm , or register at the door.
Q: What does OC/BC mean? Who is sponsoring this conference?
A: OC/BC simply refers to the Orange County Beach Cities Single Adult Coordinating Council comprising of all 16 stakes in Orange County.
Q: What’s the age range for this conference?
A: This conference is for singles 31 on up. However there will be some optional separate activities for each “decade” (30s Midsingles, 40s, 50s, 60+) too. So there’s a little something for everyone.
Q: What’s the age range for each “decade”? If I’m on the cusp between decades, which decade group can I attend?
A: Here’s the breakdown for each decade:
30s Midsingles (31-early40s)
40s Singles (late30s/40s)
50s Singles (late40s/50s)
Elite Singles 60+
There’s a little overlap so if you are on the cusp you can attend either decade group. We ask everyone to respect the age ranges. No worries…there are plenty of other all-age 31+ activities where everyone has the opportunity to meet everyone else.
Q: What's the difference between the Orange County Single Adult Conference in August and the Huntington Beach Midsingles Conference in May?
A: Here in Orange County, we are blessed to have two conferences. In May, there's the Huntington Beach 30-something Midsingles Conference (ages 27-42) sponsored by the Huntington Beach 1st Ward Midsingles. In August, there's the Orange County Single Adult Conference (all-age 31+, with optional "decade" group activities") sponsored by all 16 Orange County Stakes (including Huntington Beach Stake). Both conferences complement and support each other. Most local Midsingles actually attend both conferences.
Q: Isn’t this an “older” conference? Will 30s Midsingles actually be attending? If I’m in my late 20s, can I attend?
A: Actually, this year with both all-age and specific “decade” group activities, we expect much more singles from each decade attending. So expect at least third to half of the crowd being singles in their 30s and early 40s. So far, the average age of people registering for this conference is only 42! That means half the people registered are in their 30s, and half the crowd is over 42. Very Midsingles friendly! While this conference is mainly for singles 31 on up, singles in their late 20s, who want to dip their toes into the Single Adult scene, can attend.
If you are a Midsingle in your late 20s to early 40s, just because you may attend a Midsingles Ward and/or Midsingles only activities, doesn't mean you can't also expand your social circle and support the cause by attending an all-age 31+ activity like this conference too once in a while. You'll be surprised how Midsingles friendly this conference will be.
Q: I’m a little leery attending all-age 31+ activities for fear of being hit on by people twice my age. How can I meet people of a similar age at this conference?
A: We encourage you to attend our Friday night Dinner Kick-off at Doheny State Beach before the Friday night dance. When you arrive at the registration desk, you will be directed to picnic games separated by decades (30s Midsingles, 40s, 50s, 60+) allowing you to meet people of a similar age. Plus at both dances, there will be speed mingling rounds by decades, some workshops by age, a dedicated 30s Midsingles Lounge, and optional restaurant dinner groups for each decade on Saturday as well. We’re taking out the guesswork, so you don’t have to feel like the odd man out and are able meet people of a similar age at this conference.
Q: I’m older in my 60s or beyond, and typically no one in my age attends these things. Will anyone in my age be attending this year?
A: Yes, we have optional specific activities just for Elite Singles 60+ including speed mingling, a restaurant dinner group, and an excursion to the Five Star Montage Resort in Laguna Beach allowing you an opportunity to meet other singles in their 60s. We anticipate having a good and active crowd of Elite Singles 60+ attending. Of course, at the same time, there are other all-age 31+ activities you can choose to participate as well.
Q. This conference sounds great and I really wanna go! But I really don't know anyone, and I'm a little nervous going alone, any suggestions?
A. First of all, you are not alone in feeling this. Over 60% of those who registered so far, are attending the OC Conference this year for the first time. Perhaps unlike your prior experiences either at other singles activities, conferences, or horror flashbacks from your youth dances in your teens, this Orange County Singles Conference has several smaller activities planned throughout the weekend -- from the picnic and mingle games in Doheny Beach, to all the other activities at both dances like Speed Mingling, karaoke, game rooms, chill lounges (including one for Midsingles), music lounges, mingle activities, to the Saturday afternoon activities, to the Saturday Dinner Groups, etc. where everyone has an opportunity to meet people in smaller group settings.
Plus this year, new to the OC Conference, we plan to have a group of "Hosts" who are also fellow singles just like you, to help introduce you to other like-minded singles during the weekend and answer any questions.
You can also coordinate carpools and rooms beforehand with other singles by joining our OC Conference Facebook Group. http://bit.ly/occonf
But ultimately we all need to stretch, be proactive, and go out of our comfort zone, and within no time, you will be able to meet and mingle with singles from all over the U.S. and beyond who are attending the OC Conference.
Q: If this year’s schedule is having some “decade” group activities, how will I know which activity is all-age 31+ or for my “decade”?
A: Unless an activity has a stated age range, all the other activities are all-age 31+.
Q: With all the decade group activities, sounds like I'm being forced into only hanging out with people of my age or older. Can I attend activities for people of all ages?
A: Aside from the beginning in the few 20-30 minutes at the Friday Dinner where people are separated into playing different picnic games by decades, just as an ice breaker to meet new people, the rest of the conference has an all-age 31+ option.
So during the speed mingling rounds (by decades) if you choose, you can just attend the all-age dance, music lounge, karaoke lounge, game room, etc instead. This year we also have an all-age 31+ Speed Mingling Round too. Out of the 12 or 14 workshops being offered, a few of the workshops for one hour is age specific for 30s Midsingles. Held at the same time, all the other workshops are all-age 31+ for you to attend as well.
Saturday afternoon if you are in your 60s you can choose to attend the all-age Beach Party in Huntington Beach, Kayaking at Newport Harbor, or Hiking at Crystal Cove State Beach -- or your own Elite Singles 60+ activity to the Montage Resort, or free time on your own. For dinner on Saturday night, you can choose to attend the all-age 31+ Dinner and Entertainment at the Anaheim Stake Center or choose to attend your decade restaurant dinner group (since we can't accomondate everyone together in the cultural hall during dinner).
Some singles prefer all-age activities; some singles like attending optional decade group activities too. Recently Elder Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve spoke here in SoCal to Midsingles confirming that "the Singles Program is NOT an one-size-fits-all program" and also agrees to a varying approach.
So providing optional decade group activities, this is not about "discrimination" or "prejudice", but rather trying to provide both approaches (all-age 31+ AND decade group activities) so there's a little something for everyone and better able to reach out to more singles.
Q: Is there a la carte registration?
A: Yes, you can register for the Entire Friday Only, $30, which includes the Beach Party, catered Caribbean Dinner with Caribbean Band and live Carribbean Dance Showcase @ Doheny Beach and Island Themed Dance @ Laguna Niguel Stake Center), or All-day Saturday, $70 (which includes Keynote Speaker, attending the workshops, catered lunch, HB Beach Party, Hiking at Crystal Cove State Beach, or Montage Resort Excursion, Entertainment by Hollywood Magician John George and Broadway Review with Marvin Goldstein & Vanessa Joy, Italian Style Dinner, and Cosmopolitan Themed Dance). Kayaking is extra. You can register for Saturday Workshops and Saturday Lunch only for $38.
Or you can just attend, of course, Sunday Meetings on Sunday for free (a $5 donation is asked if you are attending Sunday only and plan to have Sunday Dinner) . Dances will be $10 for each night. However, we encourage everyone to register for the entire conference, $89. Priority seating during the speed mingling rounds will be given to those who register for the entire conference as well. So it’s best to register sooner than later, as some activities have limited spots available.
Q: Is there a special group discount to Disneyland on Monday, August 8?
A: Yes! This year at the OC Conference we are excited to have a group discount rate to Disneyland. Complete details are found on the Monday Page on the conference website.
Q: I would like to attend the entire conference, but I can't really afford it. Any suggestions?
A: You can partial attend the conference to suit your budget, or proactively put aside a few bucks every paycheck for the next few months to be able to afford to attend the entire conference, or you can contact your Bishop and/or Stake President for financial assistance to help pay for the conference. At least all 16 stakes in Orange County will support their local singles to ensure everyone (regardless of financial need) can attend this amazing conference. However, you can't just show up at the door and say "I'm in financial need".
You will need to work this out with your Bishop beforehand. Your Bishop can mail the check to the address located on the snail mail registration form and you can mail your portion by filling out the snail mail registration form, which you can download from the registration page (not Eventbrite page) with your personal info and conference options.
Q: I’m travelling from outside of the area and not familiar with Orange County. How should I get around to the different events at the conference?
A: Since the events are held all over Orange County, it’s best to carpool with others or rent a car, which is cheaper than taking a taxi. Using public transportation is sporadic and not recommended.
Q: I'm not from Orange County and plan to drive to the conference. When I use Google Maps or Mapquest for directions, there are so many freeways to choose from. Which is the best way to get to Orange County?
A: From points south of Orange County, including San Diego, Tucson, or Mexico, From Tucson, take 10 Fwy N to 8 Fwy W to San Diego. From San Diego, it's 5 Fwy N into Orange County.
From points east of Orange County, including the Inland Empire, Palm Springs, and Phoenix, take 10 Fwy W to 215 Fwy S to 91 Fwy W in Riverside. Continue on the 91, take 55 Fwy S towards Newport Beach.
From points northeast of Orange County, including Victorville, Las Vegas, and Utah, take 15 Fwy S to 91 Fwy W to 55 Fwy S towards Newport Beach.
From points northwest of Orange County, including Los Angeles, Ventura, Central Coast, Central Valley, and Northern California, take 101 Fwy S or 5 Fwy S. Depending on traffic, you can take either the 405 Fwy or 5 Fwy (then 55 Fwy S) in Los Angeles heading into Orange County. Check http://sigalert.com for the latest traffic conditions. Ideally it's best to go through Los Angeles by 2 pm to avoid Friday night traffic heading into the OC. :)
**For everyone, please refer to the Friday Page for insider driving tips to our first OC Conference activity at Doheny Beach in Dana Point. **
Q: How do I coordinate with others in sharing rides or rooms?
A: The easiest way to coordinate with others to share rides or rooms is to use the Conference Facebook group. Here’s the link. http://bit.ly/occonf
Q: Can I stay at members' houses?
A: Due to the size of the conference, we can't accommodate everyone in members' houses during the conference. A few members are offering their homes for the conference. But we encourage you to use the hotel page on the conference website, and you can coordinate with others to share rooms on the Conference Facebook Group. Here's the link. http://bit.ly/occonf
Q: Why am I being asked for my age range on the registration page?
A: To better plan the decade group activities and to double check identity if there are different people having the same name. It also helps the planners of the conference to know which demographic is attending or not and how to better serve everyone. Bring your I.D., just in case, so that at the registration desk we can verify your name with the registration list.
Q: How do the Saturday Night "Decade" Restaurant Dinner Groups work?
A: Here at the Orange County Singles Conference, we are all about options. :) When you register for the conference, you are given the option to attend the all-age 31+ Saturday Night Dinner at the Anaheim Stake Center, which includes after-dinner entertainment by Hollywood Magician John George and a short Broadway Review from Marvin Goldstein and Vanessa Joy. The all-age 31+ Dinner and Entertainment are included in the conference price, if you registered for the Entire Conference or All-day Saturday ticket.
However, since not all 1,200 singles can fit into the cultural hall together during dinner, and since some people prefer smaller group settings as a chance to get to know people better (as opposed to sitting with your friends in the same table in the cultural hall), we are offering at the same time, optional restaurant dinner groups for each decade -- 30s Midsingles, 40s Singles, 50s Singles and Elite Singles 60+.
**This restaurant group option is available to those who register for the entire conference or all-day Saturday ticket. There may be a few extra restaurant dinner group tickets (first come, first served) available to those who registered for just the Saturday Workshops and Lunch.**
Currently 40-50% of those registered are choosing the decade restaurant group option. (Most 30s Midsingles are choosing their 30s Midsingles restaurant groups). Do expect restaurants to be well-known restaurants (like a California Pizza Kitchen, Claim Jumper, Lazy Dog Cafe, Red Robin, etc) located near the beach or hotel in Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, or Irvine, to reduce travel time between the Saturday afternoon activities and the restaurant dinners.
Since we like to keep the groups smaller, each restaurant group will have around 20-25 people per group. There is no set menu -- basically you individually order and pay whatever you ordered. Most restaurants will allow everyone to pay separately. A host (fellow single in your decade from the conference) will be there at each of the restaurants to meet and greet everyone in the group. Look for everyone to have the same OC Conference wristbands and nametags to identify the group.
On Saturday Morning and throughout the Saturday Workshops and Saturday Lunch, we will have a Restaurant Group Registration Table located at the Irvine Stake Center, so that those who registered for their Restaurant Decade Group will receive their ticket with maps, directions, and details about their dinner group. Since we will have multiple restaurant groups for each decade, you can choose (first come, first served) which restaurant you would like to attend. This also allows those who carpooled together to attend the same restaurant. Or you can carpool with new friends you already met at the conference. :) We will have separate male and female tickets to ensure more even M/F ratios at each of the restaurants. Since a lot of men register at the last minute, we will have a few extra male tickets for each dinner.
As stated on the Saturday page, these dinners are NOT...I repeat are NOT...something just optional that you can flake on. Our food budget for the all-age dinner at the Anaheim Stake Center and deposits and reservations for the restaurants are made based on your selection when you register! So if you choose the restaurant group, you are committed in attending your restaurant group. If before the conference and after you registered, you have a change of plans on your dinner group option, just let us know at ocsingleadultconference@hotmail.com so we can update your registration.
Bottomline, Restaurant Dinner Groups at the OC Conference are a great way to meet new friends in a smaller group setting.
Q: What is speed mingling? How it does work? Do I have to speed mingle?
A: This year when you register online (if you are registering for the entire conference), you are given the option to speed mingle during the Friday or Saturday Night dance. Speed Mingling is just a low-key, no-stress way to meet new people and have face-time with singles you may not get a chance to on the dance floor. Think of speed mingling as a simple ice breaker activity. This year, we will be doing 2 minute rounds with 12-15 people (not the entire room) where the women once seated, stay, and then the men rotate every 2 minutes.
We will have a list of fun get-to-know-you questions if you need a little help in the conversation. Remember to keep the topics fun and light. Please do NOT ask uncomfortable questions that's put people on the hot seat such as "What's your story?" or "How long have you been single?" or "Why are you still single?" Discussing serious or heavy topics can be saved for later after the speed mingling round.
Singles in each decade (30s Midsingles, 40s, 50s, 60+) will have its own 30-minute session on both Friday and Saturday Nights. Due to the popularity of speed mingling, we are adding an all-age 31+ round too on Friday. Due to limited seats, if you can’t get in on Friday Night, more than likely, you can speed mingle on Saturday Night. Priority seating is given to those who registered for the entire conference AND registered for speed mingling online.
You will need to check-in at the Speed Mingling Registration Desk (next to the Speed Mingling Lounge) in order secure your spot to attend your speed mingling round. This year to avoid long lines, we are having two lines -- a Fastpass Line for those who registered for speed mingling online, and a Standby Line for those who didn't register for speed mingling or who are paying at the door.
Having your Speed Mingling Fastpass guarantees your seat to attend that Speed Mingling round. The sooner you register for the entire conference online, the easier you can get your Speed Mingling Fastpass.
If there is space available, any woman on the Standby Line can join the speed mingling round if they bring a guy friend (of the same decade age) with them to the round. If the speed mingling round starts and there are a few women waiting on the Standby Line and there is still space available, women in the Standby Line can join the speed mingling during the session once we get a few more men to join us, so that there was always an even M/F ratio.
With over 1,200 Singles attending, we anticipate all the rounds to fill up with even M/F ratios.
After each of the Speed Mingling sessions, the entire room will be escorted to the Reception Lounge where everyone can meet and mingle with those you didn't get a chance to speed mingle with, and that's a great opportunity to exchange any contact info at that time.
While speed mingling is happening during the dance, it’s only an optional activity. Only those interested in speed mingling will be speed mingling. It’s just a fun and easy way to meet people on a different level than you would at other activities.
Please note: When you register for the OC Conference online, and when given the options for the different rounds, if you are a male, you choose the Male option. If you are a female, you choose the Female option. This is for us to know by gender who is attending, not the opposite sex you want to speed mingle. :)
Q: What’s the refund policy for this conference?
A: Those registering from April 1 to May 31 during Early Bird registration can receive a full refund during that time. However, starting June 1, 2011, you can sell or transfer your ticket to someone one else and no refunds will be offered after May 31. If you need to sell your ticket, most people are posting on the OC Conference Facebook Group. http://bit.ly/occonf
Once you sell ticket, just notify us their name and their answers (like address, city, state, age, ward, stake, email, 1st time attending or not, Saturday afternoon options, Saturday Dinner options, Speed Mingling options) that's on the registration page via email before the conference at ocsingleadultconference@hotmail.com so we can update the registration list.
Since the new person may have different conference options (which may have limited spots available), and since we print everyone's name tags before the conference, please send the updated info to us as soon as possible.
Q: How many people are expected to attend?
A: We expect over 1,200 -1,400 Singles from Southern California, the West Coast, and throughout the U.S. to attend at California's largest Single Adult Conference.
Q: Why do I need to register now instead of just showing up at the door?
A: We encourage everyone to register sooner than later as some activities have a limited capacity and will sell out well before the conference.
Unlike some other conferences, this conference is entirely self-funded, meaning early registration helps pay for the cost of the conference. If everyone registers late and/or just shows up at the door, it makes planning for a conference much more difficult to coordinate and budget.
So the earlier everyone registers, the better conference experience we can provide.
***Plus due to the large crowd arriving on Friday Night at the Dinner and Dance, at Registration, there will be two lines – people who pre-registered online and those registering at the door.
Those who pre-registered will be processed a lot faster and able to get in and enjoy the conference quicker. Those arriving at the door having to register on Friday Night may experience a longer line and wait time.
So arrive early on Friday to avoid the long lines, or register online at http://ocbcconference.com ***
Q: If I register for the entire conference, what does my conference price cover?
A: Catered Friday Night Dinner with live entertainment , Friday Night Beach Party, Friday Night Island Themed Dance, Inspiring Workshops, Catered Saturday Lunch, Live Entertainment , Saturday Dinner (31+), Saturday Afternoon Beach Party or Five Star Montage Resort Excursion, Saturday Night Cosmopolitan Themed Dance, and Sunday Dinner. (Both Dances include musicians performing in the Music Lounge; Professional Style Speed Mingling; Karaoke Lounge; Game Lounge including Wii, DDR, Rockband, etc; Professional Photo Studio for group and individual pictures...all of this with completely uplit colored lights used throughout the building giving the ambiance that rivals any reception or dance hall.) So this is NOT your usual no frills monthly church dance fare. Not to mention great Sunday speakers and Sunday Dinner.
Plus, a whole weekend of face time and fun with a 1,200 - 1,400 other Singles…
All of this, for only $89 (Of course, any surfboard or bike rentals at the Saturday Beach Party, Kayaking, the Saturday Decade Restaurant Dinner Group, and the Disneyland After-Party on Monday are extra.)
Q: What’s the dress code for this conference?
A: If you are attending the temple on Thursday night, it’s Sunday attire. On Friday at the dinner at Doheny Beach and at the dance, it’s nice causal. At Doheny, we will be in the grassy pavillion area, far away from the sand. So nice jeans, or nice knee length shorts, yes to sleeves. Saturday during the keynote speaker and workshops, Saturday dinner and dance, it’s also nice causal, no Sunday dress needed. At the Beach Party in Huntington Beach , it’s modest beach attire. For Kayaking in Newport Harbor, it's modest beach or gym attire. For hiking at Crystal Cove State Beach, it's gym or hiking friendly attire. Hiking boots are not required, but a good pair of cross-training or walking shoes will do. And of course, on Sunday, it’s Sunday attire.
Note: The Themed Dances on Friday and Saturday means that the decor is themed, not that your own attire is themed. So the dress code is just nice causal for both nights (perhaps a little "nicer" on Saturday).
Q: How do I register?
A: The best way to register is online by going to the registration page and following the link to our Eventbrite page. However if you prefer, you can print the OC Conference Snail Mail Registration Form on the registration page, and mail in your registration by August 1st. After that, you can register online until Friday, August 5, 3 pm , or register at the door.
