Coastal Collective Co.

Blog Talk: 5 Reasons Why You SHOULD Start a Blog

Blogging, Business Development, How to BlogAnneke McConnell

Hi friends! It's been a while since I've done a Blog Talk around these parts, but after several requests, I'm reinstating it as a weekly topic. 

When people hear the word "blog" or "blogging", they may have a very specific idea about what it is or it can sound extremely vague.

The truth is there are ALL different kinds of blogs, bloggers, and niches out there and getting a blog up and running can be a little intimidating. Another truth is that it is NOT for everyone.

Tackling this weekly topic is an opportunity for me to pay it forward and help you learn from my experiences and mistakes - and possibly some awesome blogging friends of mine!

So today's topic is focusing on reasons why you SHOULD start a blog. If you have a question (or two) for future posts, I'd love to know!


1. You have ideas and information that you want to share with people.

Mind blown I'm sure, but really......a blog is simply a place to share information with other people to inspire, motivate, teach, encourage, entertain, or save them time and money.  If you were to start a blog, what ideas do you want to share?  Do you truly believe in them??  Then a blog is a great place to "put it out there"! Plus, it's YOUR website that you own!

 

2. A blog is a catalyst for future growth.

We have no way of knowing what the future holds and how things will change, but one thing is certain, change will be a part of a blog.  As your blog grows and evolves, it can be what leads you to opportunities you made not have had otherwise.  Blogging has the potential to be a stellar resume of sorts and a stepping stone to that next big thing.

 

3. You want to work from home and have a flexible schedule.

Not everyone has the discipline and ability to schedule and manage themselves to run a blog, but if you do, blogging provides an amazing degree of flexibility. You are literally in charge of your schedule!  If you are a natural planner or willing to learn and set systems in place, you'll be successful in blogging.

 

4. You own a business and want to use your website to bring in more clients or customers.

The majority of businesses who utilize a blog gain more traffic than those that don't.  Whether you're a small business owner who creates handmade goods or offer services such as a photographer, florist, or designer, it's a great way to help your potential client or customer get to know you and build a trusting relationship.

 

5. The earning potential is HUGE.

Now I'm not going to lie and say that blogging is a way to "get rich quick".  In fact, for most it takes months of hard work and dedication to build a foundation and grow their audience and influence. That CAN be you with a plan and patience!

Building a business online has the potential to reach like-minded people all over the world, people who love you, what you have to share, and want to buy from you.  Connecting and making a positive impact on people who "get you" are the fringe benefits! 


I hope you guys find this "new" series helpful!  If you haven't grabbed my FREE ebook on starting a blog, you can download it by clicking below.  

I wrote this after realizing how I was blogging "all wrong" and wanted to share what I learned to turn it around. :-)

Nordstrom I love you, but.......

Deals, Fashion, Fashion Blog Posts, Fave PicksAnneke McConnell

Ok ladies. It's officially the Nordstrom Clearance Event and even as a style blogger I was completely overwhelmed with the 160+ pages of options in the women's section alone!

Like DANG, that's a lot of cuteness to go through and choose from! Lol Sweaters, coats, boots, hats, jewelry, cardigans, scarves......it's ALL there. ;-)

This is just one reason why I love what I do - to save you hours of time so you can spend that with your kiddos or with girlfriends over a glass (or two) of wine.

I decided to make today's blog post "Boutique Style" to share items in the clearance sale I've narrowed down as favorites.  First, a Women's Boutique and second, a Home Items Boutique.

FYI, I've been waiting for these ankle boots to go on sale so I could snag them in black. I've had them in the brown for a couple years and still love them!

Also, at the end of today's post, I've narrowed down some weekend sales if you're looking for some deals heading into the Thanksgiving holiday!

Have fun shopping ladies - I'd love to know if you find something for you, your family or gifts!

 

WOMEN'S BOUTIQUE

 

Here are a few weekend sales worth noting:

Williams Sonoma - up to 50% off of cookware

Crate & Barrel - up to 20% off wine and dine items

BCBGMAXAZRIA - up to 30% off select items 

Banana Republic - up to 40% off family & friends events

West Elm - 20-30% off sofas, sectionals, chairs, furniture, rugs, and more

 

 

Have an awesome weekend!

xo,

Anneke

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Coastal Interiors: Cozy Reading Nook

Christmas, Coastal Interiors, Edesign, Holiday, Home Blog Posts, Interiors, Living RoomAnneke McConnell

Hi friends! Thanks so much for your amazing response to my first my first Gift Guide of the season supporting small business owners!  As retailers has "unleashed" the mass of their own guides and sale, even I was becoming overwhelmed. With that said, I'm happy to delve into all that and narrow things down for you!

 

As we approach the weekend and the holidays have officially kicked off, I have to say I'm LOVING this season and embracing the JOY of it all.  I'm choosing to be very intentional with my time and making room for family fun with less stress and more balance - I have to say this book, The Miracle Morning (have you heard of it?),  has been eye-opening for me in making this happen!

 

As for today's mini-design, I have a cozy reading nook in mind, curling up with that book, next to a fireplace, and enjoying a cup of hot cocoa.  Bliss am I right?!

 

The seasonal wreath adds a pop of green next to some of my favorite colors of navy, black, white and gold.  I'd love to know what stands out to you first and if you have any questions - ask away in the comments!

SHOP THE LOOK

source

Thanks for stopping in today! 

xo,

Anneke

 

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Holiday Gift Guide: Etsy Shops and Supporting Handmade

Christmas, Gift Ideas, HolidayAnneke McConnell

Happy November!  I'm excited to be kicking off a "slow release" of Gift Guides for the Holiday season and couldn't think of a better way to do that than by highlighting some amazing small business owners and handmade goods.

By the way, if you're looking to create Coastal Christmas, see more from Etsy shop owners HERE -  

These handmade, often custom items really need the time to be ordered and created! Most etsy shop owners do not take last minute orders and close shop to enjoy the holidays with their families.

Now is the time to send in your orders to get custom, handmade gifts for your friends and family.

With that said, from here on out, every gift guide created and posted on the blog will be easily found on the page linked through the button below AND I'll be updating when necessary and as possible - bookmark for easy reference!


Up first is this custom handwriting bracelet. You guys! I about died when I saw this!!  What a special treasure for anyone, but the example of a father to his daughter is amazing.  If you didn't know, I lost my dad to a heart transplant rejection when I was just 20 years old.  A bracelet like this with his handwriting and a note would mean the WORLD to me!  Custom gifts like this truly keep giving over time.

 

Another custom option is creating jewelry with a fingerprint or multiple fingerprints.  I love how this necklace is also the shape of a heart.  If I had a necklace like this with my kiddo's and husband's fingerprints on it, I'd probably never take it off! Here is another option that includes custom handwriting as well. So cool you guys!

 

Ok so if you LOVE the tassel trend like this necklace here and all things colorful, you'll love Nest Pretty Things Shop in Vermont!  There is the trendy aspect, but uniqueness as well.  Check out another one of their beautiful amethyst necklaces below!

Etsy is such a phenomenal resource for finding handmade handbags, totes, camera bags and more.  This wool messenger bag above caught my eye and is a great gift option with a padded laptop holder - especially if you're going big and gifting someone a laptop!  Also, can I just note that I love, love LOVE those cool, nautical stripes on the inside!

 

Anything customized if a sure-fire winner when gift giving.  This customizable anchors phone case is just one of 270 options that can be made to order.  These are great stocking stuffers too!

Speaking a monograms - how cute are these monogrammed keychains with a little tassel action on the side?!  These are an affordable price point with a lot of style and great holiday gift or stocking stuffer!  They also come with a gift box option that I'd highly recommend - one less thing to worry about.

Have someone that love's to decorate for the Holidays and is an amazing host?  Now's the tim to order custom wreaths as a way to say Thank You and Happy Holidays! This 16" Bay Leaf Wreath will go with any style of home decor. 

Have new little niece or nephew in the family this Christmas?  A custom monogrammed quilt is a great gift and may turn into their favorite blanket from childhood. ;-)  There are a lot of options on Etsy with different fabrics to choose to your liking.

 

If you're looking for more Home Decor gifts like these soy candles above, I'd encourage you to check out these stylish decor items under $30 - too many great options to share here on my blog, but worth a browse! 

One last thing that caught my eye is this ADORABLE Seaside Spreader SetWhat do we do more during the holiday season than spend time in the kitchen and eating good food with friends and family? I love this reminder in a coastal chic way to spread peace, cheer, love, and joy!

 

I hope you've found this Gift Guide helpful and it gets you thinking about supporting local shops, handmade goods, thinking outside of the box for Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers!

xo,

Anneke

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