Here is (almost) everything you need to know about Southern Comfort

If you would like a complete copy of this FAQ to review, click on this link to open it as a PDF that you can print and save. If you have any questions that are not answered in this FAQ please submit the question to either the Yahoo Group or directly to the SCC Board of Directors through the contact page.

How do I register?

• Website Registration: You can register online from the Southern Comfort Conference website. Click on registration and follow the directions. Fill out the blanks in the form as accurately as possible. You must use a credit card to register online; our online transactions are secure. DO NOT email this registration form to any address. You MUST fill out the on-line registration form.
• Mail in Registration: Mail a Money Order payable to Southern Comfort Conference and send it to the address listed on the form. Be sure to fill out a registration form and send along with it.

What is included in registration?

You will be provided meals as indicated on the registration form. You will also be given a conference badge that will allow you into seminars and included activities and a conference booklet containing a schedule of seminars and special events.

Is the hotel room included in the registration?

No, you must get your own hotel room, either at the conference hotel or elsewhere. Beware that hotel rooms fill up very early and you should reserve your room 3-4 months in advance of the conference. Otherwise, you may have to stay at a hotel away from the conference. The SCC room rates are only available to registered SCC attendees. More info on room rates and reservations.

Do you have a roommate and or rideshare sign-up list?

There is a Yahoo Group where you can browse messages requesting a roommate, or submit a request of your own.

How do I get to be a presenter?

You can submit a presenter proposal form. Also anyone interested in presenting should contact us at: seminars@sccatl.org. Be forewarned, there are a limited number of openings!

How do I get to be a vendor?

All those interested in vending at Southern Comfort 2010 should contact us at marketplace@sccatl.org. Please note that there is a limited amount of space and you MUST be pre-registered as a vendor to participate at SCC.

Do you offer scholarships and how can I get one?

Southern Comfort prides itself on being an affordable conference. Even so, it can still be out of reach for some. We try to never turn anyone away. If you wish to attend, but will need some assistance, please request an application by emailing scholarships@sccatl.org and your request will be given due consideration. Visit the Scholarships page for more info.

I’m too scared to leave the room. Can you help?

Yes! SCC offers a Big Brother/Big Sister Program for this very reason. It is one of our most acclaimed programs! If you want someone to come and talk to you in your room – before you go out to face the world – we’re there for you. We’ll spend as much individual time with you as you need. Please send an email to bigsib@sccatl.org if you are interested in this program.

Do you give refunds if I can’t make it to the conference?

Please check the current registration form for information on this year’s Refund Policy.

Do you provide for special dietary needs in your meals?

Indeed we do, but PLEASE make sure that you mark your special needs on your registration form.

What is the restroom policy at the hotel?

Most importantly, we ask that you use common sense. Please use the restroom that is appropriate to the gender role you are presenting. When using the ladies room, please behave like a lady (no standing, please).

When are your seminars?

A seminar schedule is included in your conference booklet, distributed when you check in or register at the convention. A seminar schedule should also be posted here on the website a few weeks before the conference.

Is Atlanta a safe place to go out in public?

Yes. Obviously, there’s safety in numbers and transportation will be provided to the outside dinners and the nightclubs. Again, use common sense.

Who runs this conference?

Southern Comfort is organized by the Board of Directors, a group of volunteers who have all been instrumental in the past in directing the conference. Under the Board of Directors, we have a volunteer committee that is in charge of individual tasks for the conference.

Do you make provisions for people with physical disabilities?

Southern Comfort abides by the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, we ask that any special requirements be told to us well in advance so that provisions can be made for our guests who require them.

Is there a dress code at Southern Comfort?

Probably the most asked question is “What should I wear?” There is no dress code at Southern Comfort. However, please be aware that when you are at SCC you are representing the Gender Community. In essence, you are an Ambassador of the Community to the rest of the world. During the day you will see a variety of outfits. Some in dresses, some in suits, and some in jeans and tee-shirts.

Do I have to be “dressed up” to participate in SCC?

No. We would hope that you feel comfortable enough to be the person that you want to be, but there is no “rule” requiring anyone to cross-dress.

Can I bring someone who is not transgender?

Absolutely! Southern Comfort is an all-inclusive conference.

I have always heard that you can get just about anything you need for a transformation… is that true?

Our vendor area will allow the Southern Comfort guest to purchase anything and everything that they will need.

What kind of clothes should I bring and how many different things do I need?

That is entirely up to you. Some guests change for every meal and then for the nightclubs. That’s a lot of changing!! Some guests choose not to go to that extreme. Truly, it’s whatever you’re comfortable with.The final night of the Conference is a formal dinner, but if you don’t have a tux or a gown, you will certainly not be turned away!

Can I take photos or videotape at the conference?

Southern Comfort’s policy on photos is to always ask permission before you take someone’s photo. Video cameras are not allowed in public conference spaces, but can be used in private spaces away from convention goers. Please be considerate of other attendees’ privacy at the conference.