A Reflection
When I first started this blogging journey three years ago, I had absolutely no idea what I was doing but I knew I wanted to create a space for myself that was completely unique and completely mine. My blog was my escape from reality and a way for me to pour all of my dedication into one place, in hopes that one day I can build a career out of it. So many people do not understand the concept of being a blogger, they believe it’s all pictures and perfect sponsorships but it honestly is one of the hardest commitments ever (ask any other blogger).
I built this website from scratch just from doing extensive research, learning from online coaching classes, other blogs, and mostly trial and error. It is more work than a full time job, which is incredible difficult when you have to put it on the back burner while doing other things like starting a different career or completing a college degree.
My advice to anyone looking to start their own blog-
Create a truly unbreakable passion for it before you dive in, had I not been passionate about writing I would have never done this and especially knowing how much work goes into it. I was willing to put in the dedication, and if you are too then you should absolutely pursue it! I have grown so much as an individual, understanding what passion and hard work equals to. I have understood how many people want something from you rather than want to support you once they see you take a leap in an overwhelming opportunity.
Do NOT sell yourself short, had I known that so many people would come to me for advice and not return the favor of sharing your content and helping you in return, I would’ve done things differently. The amount of people that asked me to proof their online resume, create campaigns and online ideas for their entrepreneur concepts, share their products, etc. You take the time to learn this material. You pay for the classes, you put in the work, you should see your work and experience as a service. This calls for friends and brands!!! The reason people come to you is because they see you created something valuable, so don’t forget that and use it as your motivation as well.
As many bloggers say, you should only do sponsorships and promotions for products you believe in and work!!! When you are first starting off, it seems really exciting to get an email in your inbox from a brand that you may or may not have heard of, but you should really make sure you believe in their brand concept! Understand how they treat their customers and if they’re product is valuable because it is a reflection of you! I have said no to a lot of brands, some I wish I didn’t, and the others I am glad I said no to because it would not be an honest reflection. Marketing in this century is completely different than before, it is all about exposure. The more people sharing a product the more likely people will purchase it, even if it sucks! I have worked with brands that asked for an honest review and then ask for a proof so they can make sure it was to their liking (not very honest)! The point is make sure you are doing it for the right reasons and not just exposure, because most likely once you give consent to share their product they have the digital rights to your content, and people will know you are only doing it for the money.
Three years of experience has welcomed me with some really difficult times, website crashes, bad promotions, etc. But it also welcomed me with overwhelming support, opportunities beyond belief, sponsored content from major collaborations like Winc, Evian Spray, Chick-fil-a, Mystic Tan, The Magic Penthouse, PYT Beauty, and more. It is incredible to see where I started and where I am at now, knowing and learning from everything I got to experience just for having a passion for writing and sharing lifestyle and beauty concepts with you guys.
Makes me so grateful to see what lies ahead! Thank you so much for all the support over the years, it truly means the world. If you are looking to start a blog, please email me if you have any questions and thanks for being apart of The Sassy Brunette journey.
XO,
The Sassy Brunette
Linked below is my outfit!
Zara White Blouse (Something Similar)
Jeffery Campbell Heels (Sold out but similar)
What a great post. Keep on creating, learning, creating and sharing! Love your work! Look forward to what the future has in store for you.
Thank you!