What I learned from Blog Podium : Part One

September 16, 2014 jules! (heyjules.ca)

So like I mentioned before, this past weekend I got the chance to go to Blog Podium. I went two years ago, but missed last years. Blog Podium is a conference in Toronto for Design & Lifestyle Bloggers. Since I just launched my new blog and am getting back in to the groove, I thought the timing was perfect to get inspired! My babe bought me a ticket to the conference for my 30th birthday and I am so glad that I went!

I am still feeling so driven after Saturday, and I have so many ideas that my head my explode. When we arrived at the conference we got a cute-as-can-be notebook from Minted for the day. I literally almost filled the whole book up!

I realized that since I have A LOT of notes, I will make this in to a two part series to make sure I let you all know just how much awesome stuff I learned. Let's be blogger besties.

Making your blog reflect YOU! :

Your blog is free branding. Make sure your blog symbolizes who you are!
Utilize the things you love and marry that to your blog
Ditch your pride / Take risks / Believe in yourself / Trust others / Become a better you
Write a mantra for your blog! (I am so excited to do this)
Use Facebook groups to connect and network and share
"Focus on your content and the rest will take care of itself"
You are what you blog!

When it comes to photography on your blog :

If you take a photo of something that's pretty, you have way better chance of success (photograph it well and right!)
Have a consistent style when it comes to photo taking
Use props to tell your story
Make sure the hero in the photo is obvious
Define a colour palette and keep your colour consistent
Natural light is always best
Build your own brand
Make a style guide for your blog ; create a mood board, make your look, decide on your colours and style, do search (whose work do you love?)
Light can make or break your photo
Choose small props
Buy a ruler, and use it!

Bloggers & Brands :

Keep your pitch short (about one page)
Network with other bloggers
Make a list of bloggers and brands you want to work with
NBB - Never Be Boring
Create a facebook page for your brand
Use LinkedIn to connect with brands
Make sure your pitch looks pretty
Always leave a personal note when contacting a blogger or brand
Think of yourself as the reader as well as the writer
Always ask yourself "Would I read this?"
No matter what, always hit "preview" and check for errors or typos before posting
Create shareable, well written content
Don't just tweet links - be active and build engagement

More bloggy goodness coming soon! Love ya all.