Today kicks off a weekly series all about starting, writing and building a blog. I’m teaming up with four other bloggers to offer advice based on a specific topic each Wednesday in October. So, after you read my post, pop over to the others. It’s interesting how we each approach the same job in different ways. Today’s post topic is all about developing your blog/brand.
Most of you know I started blogging when blogs were relatively new. No Pinterest, no Instagram, no magazine-worthy post photos required. Ahhh, the simple days! I started blogging because A.) I really, really loved decorating our house, and my mind was pretty much consumed with it. And, B.) I thought it would be a good way to organize my thoughts, save future project ideas, etc. I never had a clue that it would/could become a job, because there just weren’t that many full-time home decor bloggers out there at the time. Sometimes, I think that going into this blindly with no expectations or marketing plan was a really, really good thing for me. Pure love for what you do is often the best formula. (I know this because I’ve also had a couple of jobs that I absolutely detested. It’s not fun.)
image: Better Homes & Gardens
“Branding” is such a big buzzword among bloggers now, but I kind of fell into my “brand” without knowing it. I didn’t have a strategic plan going in. I’ve just always written about what I know. If it’s of interest to me, then surely, it will be of interest to some other people. On the other hand, I won’t be the blog for every decor enthusiast out there because my style is too simple. Too cluttered. Too family-friendly. Too colorful. Too bland. (I’ve heard it all.)
image: The Every Girl
Even today, after blogging for six years, I still don’t make decisions based on formulating some dreamed up brand. I do, however, refer back to my “design. simplified.” tagline a lot. Are the ideas I’m presenting achievable/attainable/unintimidating? Do they line up with the overall theme of my blog? Are they true to who I am as a decorator, as a mom and as a person? I think that sticking with a general theme can be a big draw when building a blog following. People like to know what to expect and will keep coming back for more when the content is consistent. Chasing the wind and trying to keep up with every blogging trend is exhausting for both the blogger and the reader.
So, what if you’re a brand new blogger—or are just thinking of starting a blog? Here are a few practical tips from someone who has learned (and messed up) along the way.
image: Better Homes & Gardens
1. Decide who it is you’re writing your blog to, and stick with it. I don’t think enough bloggers consider this, but I do think it’s super helpful in letting your true voice come through in your writing style. You can’t be everything to everyone. Are you writing your blog for your readers, for companies, for other bloggers? Believe it or not, your writing will reflect this and readers will notice. You may even want to think of a specific person, and write as though you’re talking to them face-to-face.
2. Write often. Like more often than you think. Even when it feels like no one is reading it. When I started blogging, I wrote almost every week day. I don’t think that’s necessary, but it definitely got me into the practice of coming up with content on a regular basis. And, the more you write, the better you’ll become at it and finding your voice/writing style.
3. If you’re even kind of thinking/hoping/dreaming that this might turn into a job (now or in the future), put your best foot forward from the start. Buy your domain name and have a custom blog header. Even if the rest of your blog isn’t super slick, a nice clean header will make a good first impression. (I wrote more thoughts here on the business of blogging.)
4. Support other blogs. Networking is an important part of making your blog known, but so is good old-fashioned support and encouragement for other bloggers. I will once tell you that I was afraid mentioning another blog would send tons of traffic away from my own site, never to return. That’s just silly. Supporting other blogs is not only a good gesture toward other people who are interested in the same thing you are, but I believe it also gives you some credibility with your readers that they can trust you to recommend the best things/blogs/people you find online. I love that my Saturday 6 posts can send traffic to new and growing blogs and get some of the most positive feedback about those posts.
5. Read, research and keep teaching yourself new things. Google has been (and will continue to be) my very best business partner. I have put hours into learning and figuring things out as they come up. I even understand a tiny bit about html now, which is a small miracle in itself. Analytics, SEO, page rank, page views, etc., were all completely foreign terms to me (and maybe to you, too!) when I started. But, there’s an abundance of information out there, if you have the inclination to learn it.
Keep reading. Here are four other bloggers sharing their stories and advice:
Lindsay of The White Buffalo Styling Co. // Jennifer of With Heart
Sarah of Sarah M. Dorsey Designs // Kristin of Bliss at Home
Hi Emily, when I read this I can’t imagine all the changes you have seen over the years in blogging! I love that you have stayed true to you. I have to say and I know I’ve probably mentioned this to you before, but reading your blog is what made me think maybe I could write a blog. I only read your blog and one other at the time. I dotouch on that a bit in my post, but your voice is what gave me that little nudge. I will always be grateful for that. xoxo
Really enjoyed reading this from the design blog legend ;) Your insight always blows me away. Thanks for sharing!
Is legend another way to say old? Ha! Thanks, Claire.
Emily thank you so much for joining in this series! I loved reading this and getting a seasoned blogger’s perspective :) I remember I started reading yours long before The White Buffalo was born and I loved it! I’ve learned so much from you over the years :)
Thanks so much for the 5 tips. They were really helpful. I’m going to go back now and read the article you linked about the business of blogging.
Thanks again,
Jenn
Emily,
I want you to know how much I have appreciated your blog. I love your ideas & style”..your philosophy of creating a home speaks to me. I am 72 yeas old and still love creating a warm environment for my family..esp. Our 9 Grandkid’s. Over the years, I feel like you have become one of my favorite young moms on my block who generously shares her wonderful gifts & ideas with all of us….thank you so much. I want you to know how much joy your blog has given me…I loved reading it while going through chemo treatment…making me hopeful and positive. You have no idea how much positive impact you have on so many people..please keep sharing this wonderful God- given gifts with us readers. Thank you so much, Mary
Well, Mary, this is one of the sweetest comments I’ve read in a long time. Thank you so much for your encouraging words. I just love that you’ve enjoyed it so much. And, I hope you’re doing lots better! Thanks again.
What a great series! I loved this post and your advice, especially about knowing who you’re writing to. Can’t wait to read the rest of this series, thanks for sharing your tips!
I was so excited to hear about this series – and with a GREAT group of bloggers with all different experiences and perspective! These are all great tips Emily, but I’m so glad you mentioned #3. Bloggers just starting out tend to undervalue themselves and their potential, so high fives for being encouraging!
I’m curious to know what blogs you follow religiously? ;)
Maybe it is just me, but when I click on your link for Bliss at Home it takes me to Sarah M. Dorsey…
Whoops–that would be all me! Just made the change. Thanks for letting me know.
I know it just started but I already love this series! Your tips are excellent. I can’t wait for next week! :)
Emily,
Your blog was the first one I ever read. I don’t know what you do to make your blog so fun, interesting and different but keep doing it! No matter what you write about I always enjoy reading . If you recommend it I want to try it! If you read it I want to read it! If you buy it I want to buy it too! If you like it I like it too:) Your posts are honest and trustworthy. It is like you are a friend and won’t lead me the wrong way!
Lv, Kathleen
Kathleen–I love that so much. Thank you! You have always been a big encourager to me, and I really appreciate it.
I love this! I just started blogging and would love to see where it goes. This is great advice. If you have a change, I’d love for you to check it out and give some pointers! :)
http://www.maggiealamode.com
Thank you so much for sharing, Emily. I’ve recently started putting in the time to pursue my blog full time. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and I’m finally diving in and going for it! I’ve learned a lot about web designing which is something I never imagined myself doing through the process, and it’s been awesome! :)
Dear Emily,
I wanted to write on Saturday and tell you that your Saturday 6 is the first thing I read, bleary-eyed, with coffee after my darling 7 year old wakes me before I’m ready.
I wanted to write you a few weeks ago when you posted about blogging/branding.
I’m writing now: please don’t ever change. You’re a breath of fresh air! No restyle links, no forced sponsor posts. I’ve stopped reading so many blogs for this reason. I’m almost embarrassed for some bloggers veiled attempts to brand/market themselves.
I like to look at pretty homes, get inspired, care for my family, and it’s difficult to find blogs like yours anymore.
Again, you’re one of my favorites and I love your non-contrived (is that a word?) content. Classy, lovely lady. Keep up the great work!
Sincerely,
Shannon
Shannon–thank you. Such a nice comment. (And, I’m so glad you enjoy the Sat. 6. There have been mornings when I’ve woken up suddenly and thought “Someone is waiting to read this with their coffee. Get up and get it posted.” Ha!)
One quick word on RewardStyle links. I do use those sometimes. Just for full disclosure, anytime you’re seeing the “affiliate links used” at the bottom of a post, I’ve used one or more of those links in a post. It may end up being a very small commission, but that’s how you know if you click through the link I’ve provided (and actually buy) that I’ll make a little something. I try to use them with purpose and not just for the sake of throwing up a bunch of products, if that makes sense.
Thank you again for your kind comment.
I love reading your blog and truly brightens my day. Your love for your family and your home is most evident when reading your blog. I don’t think people realize how much time and effort it takes to write a blog. I have followed some blogs and I really enjoy them but then nothing is posted for 3 or 4 months and you wonder if they are ok and their family is ok. I appreciate you telling us that you will be off for a week with your kids. Thanks for brightening my day.
Thank you, Betty! Definitely a time-consuming job/hobby/or whatever it ends up being. Lucky for me, I love doing it :) So glad you enjoy the blog.
This was SO helpful thank you so much! I needed this inspiration today.
Loved this post! As an artist, I have loved design in one form or another my entire life. Whether it be painting, designing a garden, or rearranging a room as long as it feeds my creative nature, I’m in.
Last year, I started my own business at the ripe old age of 52! I’m constantly inspired by books, magazines, nature, and of course other design bloggers. My daughter encouraged me to join Instagram and try starting a blog (late to the game, I know) but I absolutely love it! I’ve “met” so many interesting artists and designers!
The blog is still a work in progress and so I found your advice so helpful. I guess what I’ve learned is if you love something, just do it! We are never too old to stop learning. ;)
Love this post, and I’m excited to read the series. I’ve been blogging for about four years and I pour a lot into it. I don’t necessarily blog for the followers, I made peace with not becoming a “big” blogger a long time ago — instead, my heart is to curate a portrait for my children of their childhoods.
HOWEVER, I do occasionally stumble upon blogs with more than 10 times the followers (on Bloglovin’) that are…ahem…bad blogs. And not just because they’re not my taste…I’m talking terrible, recurrent typos and grammar problems, dark, bad pics. It’s honestly confusing to me.
All that to say, I’m interested to hear the experience from a great blogger with quality content. Thank you!
Hi Emily!
Thank you so much for sharing your tips! When I started my blogging journey this past summer, I studied your blog and have been so inspired by you! Truly the icing on the cake meeting you at the BHG Stylemaker event too! Keep on inspiring us! You truly are a gem in the blogging world!
xo,
Shauna
Thank you, Shauna. I really enjoyed meeting you :)