I often get emails asking for advice on how to get sponsorships for your blog. I remember that this was one of my biggest questions when I started blogging. One very experienced–and successful–blogger once told me that if you’re just going to blog for the money, then you shouldn’t blog at all. I do agree with that–to a point. I’m in no danger of becoming a millionaire from blogging, but if I can make a little extra money (and find some great companies with products I really like in the process), then I think it’s really a win-win for everyone.
When I first started searching for advice on how to obtain sponsorships, I came across an excellent post written by my friend, Rhoda at Southern Hospitality. She sheds alot of light on when to start accepting sponsors, how to charge and what to expect. You can read it in its entirety here.
I think the best thing I took from her post was to be patient. My blog wasn’t as ready as I was when I first started seeking advertisers. Sponsors are ultimately looking for numbers. The more your readership grows, the more interest you’ll have from sponsors. They’re also looking for a specific audience. There’s no better way to do this than to be true to yourself in your writing and to provide really great content. (You can find more of my thoughts on building your blog here.)
That being said, you can’t just blog to build numbers or gain sponsorships. I started blogging on a whim, having no idea the time commitment it involved. Fortunately for me, I love it, and I think that’s really the bottom line. If it felt like a burden to me, I wouldn’t do it. When I get overwhelmed, I’ve had some people suggest I give up the blog and just concentrate on client work. Honestly, the blog is like my baby. I love writing it, I love reading your comments, and it’s almost like a stress reliever from some of the other headaches that come along with the design process.
So, that being said, thanks for reading. And, a big thanks to my sponsors who believe my blog is worth associating their products with it. Hope you’ll take the time to visit some of them, and if you want to buy something from them, that would be pretty cool, too. . . . You can find links to all of their shops under the “Sponsor” tab on my sidebar.
Have a great weekend,
thank you for this post, its very helpful!
Sweets, your blog is one of my very, very favorites! Thank you for the time, energy, and thoughtfulness you put into each post. You inspire me – us, the blog readers! – all the time.
What a great post, Emily. Thanks.
As a new blogger, I really, really appreciate this post. Trying to find and develop my voice, footing, and focus, while staying abreast of the technical side, and trying to grow my blog all at once is daunting but fun. Your advice is very reassuring.
Thanks so much and keep up the wonderful job you do. Your blog has always inspired me and I look forward to reading your blog every day.
It’s so great of you to post this! I’m a new follower, and can tell that you genuinely love blogging and sharing your insight with all of us. So, a huge thank you, from one Emily to another!
Thanks for this post, Emily! I always LOVE reading your blog! I’ll be sad if you ever get toooo overwhelmed and stop!
I posted my living room makeover {from all brown wood paneling to my favorite place in the house}! I hope you’ll come over and check it out!!
http://www.justatouchofgray.blogspot.com
Emily –
Thanks so much for your insight on this topic. I’m a little shy to ask successful bloggers the “secrets” to their success in different areas. THerefore, I always appreciate it when they (you) provide practical advice and encouragement. I do it because I love it but it is validating for someone to feel like your site is worthy of sponsorship. And like you said, it’s a win-win for both sides.
This was a great post, Emily! I read Rhoda’s article back when she first posted it, and she always has the best advice.
My own opinion is that many new bloggers get so caught up in collecting Followers and numbers that they start trying to find sponsors too early. I’ve always felt like it was better to find your voice, connect with your audience, and build some good solid consistent content before going out looking to get paid for blogging.
I wish everyone would just take a deep breath and enjoy the ride. :)
Thanks for the linky love, Emily. I think a lot of bloggers don’t realize the time & patience it takes to grow a blog & many give up or expect too much too soon. It’s a slow & steady proposition, building your content, being true to yourself & giving your readers something to look forward to. Yes, lots of work, but so very rewarding! I love this blogging world! It’s been a pleasure to watch you grow, Emily. :)
such a great post! thank you for all of the advice. xoxo jillian:: cornflake dreams
great post! Thanks for the info!
Hi Emily!
I agree with you… I’m blogging for a while now and I know you’re right about this. Besides, I think you should be smart about of who you accept to advertise on your blog. I’m a bit “picky” about it. I need to believe on the company and its products.
This post is great! Thank you!
Have a blessed weekend.
xo
Luciane at HomeBunch.com
thanks emily! this is soooo timely and very useful as we round out the first year of our blog!
It struck me when you said your blog is like your baby. I agree and it’s such a stress reliever for me. Not to mention how impressive and wonderful so many bloggers are. I have found that good things happen when I am truly loving what I am doing. Thanks for your post.
This post couldn’t be more helpful after recently setting up my own blog to showcase my design tastes ahead of settin up own business it is lovely to read someone who has been there and your take on advertising.
Great post Emily!! So true. Love the links as well. Thanks Rhonda!
Wonderful post, Emily. I also mentioned to my husband that my blog is my “baby” two days ago, how funny! I just read Rhonda’s post and I find it very helpful. Thanks for the link and thank you, Rhonda for a great post!
Jessie
http://www.mixandchic.com
I loved hearing your thoughts on this because I can really tell you love your blog from reading it. I just recently started my blog as a creative outlet and it has been so much fun sharing ideas and a great stress relief (even if I am writing to invisible readers, haha).
Thanks for pointing us newbies in the right direction Emily. While blogging may not be the most lucrative route it does seem to open many doors that may have otherwise not been accessible.
Great advice! Thanks for putting this out there. I have always wondered how it all worked- and I agree that with patience and truth to yourself, it all will come into place. :) Happy Weekend!
This is the best advice! I am currently thinking I would like to source some sponsors but would like my readership to be up a little more and my layout to be more advertiser friendly. I am going to go with my gut and hold off while I just write what I am doing and be myself… it will all come when it does! Thanks for the advice… I just recently started following your blog and I love getting your emails daily!
Tiffany {Living Savvy}
http://www.savvydesignwest.com
Great post Emily – everything well said. Thank you!
My blog is 3 months old and I’ve often thought about sponsorship, when and how to do to, is my blog old enough, etc…this post is so helpful. I love fellow bloggers giving advice to others. It’s my favorite thing about blogging actually!
Stacy
PS…I read what your son said at dinner on Twitter and was laughing hysterically. I don’t think you’re in danger of needing a diet
Excellent post! It is always nice when a successful blogger gives help to the new and inexperienced blogger, such as myself. Thank you. Love the new living room.
This post has been so helpful! Especially for someone still trying to find their ground in the blog world! This is my first time commenting on your blog, but I have been a daily reader for quite some time. You are doing an excellent job! xo
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Thanks for the advice! I am hoping to find some good sponsors in Raleigh, NC.
Very helpful post :) I like the part where you sate that “but if I can make a little extra money (and find some great companies with products I really like in the process), then I think it’s really a win-win for everyone”.
Thank you , i need a subscribers .
Great post. I am going to take into great consideration the advice you have given. It has been a year since I started blogging with the intention of developing my skills as a writer. I look forward to everyday of a blogger’s lifestyle.
Thank you for the insight. I’m new to the blogging world and the idea of sponsors seem so far fetched. But maybe one day…