When did you start blogging?
I started designlovefest in 2009, when I was working for a company designing packaging for headphones. At that point in my life, I was desperately in need of a creative outlet, and my blog became that for me.
Tell us a little about what you do and what your site is about.
I was trained, and have worked as a graphic designer, but now I have my hand in a little bit of everything. I helped start blogshop – a workshop where bloggers learn Photoshop, and are empowered with the design tools that are vital to success. We recently added a video class, and I’ve been busy working on some really cool new partnerships for my blog.
On designlovefest you can find anything from style posts, to recipes, to freelance advice, and everything in between. I started it as a place to gather my own inspiration, and through that I hope to inspire others. I’ve been putting most of my focus into creating original content these days, which has been really fulfilling.
What is your idea of blogging success?
I didn’t set out to be a “blogger,” and I’m amazed every day by the responses I get. It is so rewarding to get feedback on my work, and hear that others are inspired by designlovefest. I think you need to go into blogging with the idea that you’re doing it for yourself. If you feel like blogging is therapeutic, if it energizes and excites you, if you really believe in what you’re doing, that is real success–and you’re sure to get noticed.
What has been the best decision you have made regarding your business?
While freelance work was scary, it was, without a doubt, the best decision I have ever made. I had to trust myself and my work, and now I can’t imagine where I’d be if I hadn’t taken that leap of faith.
What is it about blogging that you love?
I was really into visual journals growing up, and loved collecting beautiful imagery. Being able to do that daily, as a job, is a dream come true.
What does the coming season look like for your site?
To start, I’ve been bringing on some very talented contributors. I want to continue to find and develop creative talent, and take designlovefest to the next level. Moving forward, I would love it to feel more comprehensive, and editorially minded.
What is your favorite artist to listen to while you work?
Luckily for me, we have a DJ in the office, and a rad jukebox in the corner with tons of vinyl. While it is always an auditory adventure to discover “new” old-music, you can never go wrong with The Smiths or Sam Cooke.
What is one piece of advice you would give to a new blogger?
Be true to yourself, and your aesthetic. If you know your brand, and only put out content that makes you “go wild”, you’re sure to do well. And of course, don’t give up–building a brand takes time.
