Archive for August, 2010

08/31/10

This Molecule Ring by Contagious. Isn’t it gorgeous?

08/31/10

So you’re thinking about allowing people to advertise on your blog?

What a great idea. There are a lot of misconceptions out there about blog advertising. In fact, some people will tell you that you have to get up to a certain amount of subscribers or a certain amount of page views before you can even think about offering advertising on your blog. But that is simply not true. It doesn’t really matter how many blog readers you have, you just have to make the advertising cost proportional to the amount of traffic you receive.

I’ve seen small blogs offer advertising for as low as $5-15 a month. And while that may not even put gas in your car, it is certainly a start. So, here’s what I suggest: check out other blogs and find out their rates and stats and kind of compare that info to your own so you have a general idea of what your starting point should be. *I am not suggesting that you waste bloggers time by pretending your are interested in advertising just to get their info. So what am I suggesting? Do your homework and research other blogs. Many bloggers actually supply their advertising rates some where on their site, so start with those.

Now, if you don’t feel comfortable offering paid advertising based on your numbers or some other reasoning, you still have options.

For example, you could decide to go the free route instead. Offer free weekly or monthly blog advertising to quality shops and sites that suit the style of your specific blog. This option has the potential to really get people to rally around your blog, because you would be offering a free service to small business owners. And let’s face it, most small business owners would jump at the chance for an opportunity like this.

And to ensure that you get something out of the deal as well, ask that shop selected for free ads add a link to your blog from their blog or etsy shop. This could be via a post about your blog with a link or just a simple addition to their blogroll. Its up to you- you make the rules. The benefit to this option is twofold. It will bring you incoming links, and (hopefully) will also bring more people to your blog and in time begin building up your audience, so that you can offer paid advertising in the future if you wish.

Do you have any tips for blog advertising to share with newbies? Leave your tips in the comments.

*image c/o Laura Evans

08/31/10

I am so impressed with today’s shop of the day, Seaoats, I am kinda out a loss for words. So, I am going to have to let Malina say a few…

[Seaoats creates] handmade eco-friendly clutches, pouches, and pencil cases made from reclaimed fabrics and hand-printed screen prints using non-toxic and environmentally friendly inks. I’ve designed products that are eco-friendly by scouring the plethora of thrift stores here for secondhand fabrics and reclaimable materials…

And as if being environmental conscience, hand-printing, and hand sewing each piece weren’t enough on its own, each screen printed image found on these clutches and pouches is actually a photograph that was taken by Malina and/or  her husband. Wow!

It is obvious that the craftsmanship and attention to detail here is impeccable.

Visit Seaoats on etsy to view all of Malina’s hand-sewn pouches and more.

08/31/10

I’m back! And guess what? Bet you think I ran out of pink goodness to share? Well, don’t get your Victoria’s Secret in a bunch dolls, because that will never happen. Just when you felt that frown coming along (who doesn’t..its the beginning of the work week after all), I am here to turn it upside down. Here is your daily dose of pink!

-Letitia of Dujour

photo sources: top image here; middle image here; bottom image here

08/31/10

Thought I would try something new today and use direct products links for daily favorites, since I’ve had so many requests for it.

1. Ceramic Study Cushion Cover 2. Brass Beads Supply Stash 3. Blue Gem Cluster Hinge Bracelet 4. Bike Around the World Earrings 5. Michelle Card Set 6. Blue Patchwork Circle Hoop 7. Crochet Blue Watercolor Painting

If you like this new format better for DF’s, let me know in the comments. I am still deciding on this, so I need some feedback if you don’t mind.

08/30/10

This Wishbone Stitch Circle by The Merriweather Council $22.

08/30/10

1. The metallic pewter color gives this bag edge, while the cascading ruffles soften the look.  Purse from Target, $14.99.

2. Perfectly faded black jeans are a cool way to wear grey this fall.  Jeans from White House Black Market, $49.99.

3. I love the baroque-inspired shape and smoky grey hue of these Swarovski crystal earrings.  Earrings by Beach Flower Designs, $19.

4. The ombré effect and curve-hugging fit make this bandage skirt super hot.  Skirt from Express, $59.50.

5. Cozy grey flannel softens up this menswear-inspired oxford.  Shoes by Nine West, $79.

6. This draped suede jacket is the definition of effortless chic.  Jacket by Funktional, $159 from Revolve Clothing.

7. This necklace-meets-scarf hybrid can be wrapped, tied, and draped around your neck in endless ways.  So fun for fall!  By Necklush, $62.

xoxo,

Lesley