It’s My Business: How it Happened
When I started my blog several years ago I didn’t realize what I was getting into. I began it to share my styling tips and knowledge with a wider audience than just my personal clients. Image Consulting is hugely rewarding but it also took a major hit when the economy tanked a few years ago.
About a year ago my blog morphed from a hobby into a full-time business. It began to take up most of my waking hours plus cost me money to host, deliver my emails and get the technical assistance I need. I also needed to upgrade my camera equipment because my photos were too blurry. My husband is retired so I need this blog to cover itself.
I never thought of this as a business until my daughter told me her MBA class had chosen my business to study. Me? A business? Yes! At 60 I’m an entrepreneur running my own business. I’m also working like a one-armed wallpaper hanger to juggle all the balls and keep it going. It’s a lot of work and I love it!
I’m approached daily by brands and companies who want me to promote their product or service. I’m very choosy and turn down most offers that come my way. Some bloggers will tell their readers everything is fabulous…I won’t.
I was approached by a company last month to promote their hair product. We emailed back and forth several times before it became clear they didn’t care about my opinion and just wanted access to you. Who is “you”? You’re my readers who I value and respect. They were offering me money to reach you for a product I could not endorse. Not happening!
I’m paid by some brands to try their products and if I like them, I share them with you. If I don’t like a product you’ll never hear about it. I’ll contact the brand, return the merchandise and say no thanks.
I also use affiliate shopping links which can generate a small income for me if you buy things through the links on my site.
Thank you for supporting the brands I share that allow me to continue this blog. Your comments make my day and I’m so happy you’re here. Would I continue to do this if it cost me money? Probably, but it would be a challenge.
I love your questions and ideas for posts so keep them coming and I will do my best to answer them.
Thanks for reading and have a great day.
What would you bring to a Silver Seas cruise to the Norwegian Fjords?
Having been in the Baltic during their summer months, I would suggest layers. It’s chilly. Silver Seas can be more dressy than many other cruise lines so I would bring resort casual with accessories to dress them up. Feel free to email me for more personalized wardrobe planning.
Jennifer,
I love, love ,love reading your blog! It’s not just the styling, although I love that, but also how open you are about other aspects of your life that you share: favorite recipes, places, things to do. Your recent mentions of searching for a home to retire really struck a chord with me as this is something that my husband and are currently wrestling with. It’s not an easy decision but reading your thoughts – and those of your readers – makes it a burden shared and lightens the load.
Thanks so much for all your hard work and “friendship”. I truly appreciate it!
CJ
Your comment means the world to me, Cathy! Thank you so much for taking the time to be here and share your voice. xx
Thanks for sharing your story on how your blog/business began. I’ve been blogging for a year now, my blog is primadarling. It’s time consuming but I love it and would like to grow it into a business. Blogs are the new magazines for targeted audiences since the major fashion magazines are not offering real-life style solutions for women over 40. I appreciate your insights and integrity.
I completely agree about fashion magazines. They continue to ignore the woman over 40 which was part and parcel to the demise of More magazine. Good luck with your blog, JoLain! It is a labor of love and so rewarding.
Jennifer,thanks for being you.I am a 61 yrs old I think just finding herself. Lose 24 lbs and trying ti find the style of a 61,you look awesome and healthy, can I ask ,do you drink soda again thanks
Thanks, Sandra. Congrats on your weight goals! I do not drink soda at all.
Jennifer – I appreciate your honesty and integrity! You have a fan and a follower!
Thank you so much, Janet!
Bravo Jennifer!You always come across as authentic and it’s always a pleasure to read your blog.Thanks for recommending genuine products.
Also,I’m investigating new eyeglass frames for my fair colouring,thinning blonde hair and vanity.I love your frames and how they flatter your face so well.I now have some inspiration.
Greetings from Australia.
Greetings Julie! Take your time and try many, many on before you decide. I find it helps to take a selfie of me wearing the frames I like and then examine the differences later at home.