As much as I love feeding you eye candy with DIYs or inspiring spaces, today’s post is focusing on the writing and getting more personal instead. In case you didn’t know, I’m not very good at this, so much that I really only do this when I’m prompted by an external force. That’s why when my friends Fran from Fall for DIY (jewelry and textile extraordinaire) and Carmody from Paper and Fox (clever crafter and stylish decorator) asked me to join in on this Blog Hop to show a more personal side of my blogging, I said heck yes, because I really do want to get better at showing more of who I am, so here goes:
Why do I write?
I’m going to go a bit deeper with this question, back to the time right before I started this blog. Last year, I went through a period of months looking for a new job to break into a more creative career. My biggest obstacle was lack of experience, because my work background is solely in healthcare. Interview after interview of companies describing that they were looking for “creative” and “driven” candidates, I found myself struggling to get people to look beyond my resume full of unrelated experiences. I am creative, I am driven, but truthfully, I didn’t have much to show for it. When I did finally get an offer, it just didn’t feel right, and it really wasn’t what I wanted.
What I wanted was a voice, because for a long time I felt like I had lost it, and after going through that series of job hunting fails, I felt like I wasn’t being heard either, or at least not in the way that I wanted to be. I had a lot to show and prove, to find my own definition of success, and I found it through writing this blog. I write because it helps me know who I am and what I love, which in turn connects me with amazing people I never would have known existed if it weren’t for the miracle that is the internet. I write to inspire, with the hopes that I can encourage someone to try something new and take a risk, whether it’s starting a blog of their own or going with a fabric pattern they wouldn’t normally choose :P. I write for fun, passion, and feeding my soul. It’s been a blast.
What am I working on?
Ah, here’s a chance for me to show you something not so pretty. I’m currently working on putting up an art gallery around our TV. It’s something I’ve wanted to do since day one of moving in over a year ago, and I’ve made zero progress on it. We went with a quick and inexpensive alternative to fill up the glaring, white space with the Malma mirrors from IKEA since I knew it would take time to gather art to put up, and as you can see, they’re starting to fall off (the Command strips aren’t unsticking- it’s the paint on the wall that’s coming off!) I was positive I’d just gradually collect art and transition these mirrors out, and like I said, that has not been happening at all. SO, I’ve planned some DIY wall art ideas that are soon to come and will of course be showing the gallery wall once it’s all hung up. Fingers crossed. *update* See the completed gallery wall here.
In terms of the blog, I’m working on diversifying the content a little bit and trying out a new column or two, all while making this a more personal space where I won’t always chicken out on sharing the “behind the scenes.”
How does my work differ from others of its genre?
Can anyone help me answer this question? Please?? I’m still figuring this one out. All the advice written about starting a blog stresses the importance of pinpointing a specific niche or having a painstakingly unique point of view, and I didn’t figure much of this out before starting. I ran the red light and went on because I just wasn’t sure what my style was back then and felt like once I started, all of that would naturally unfold along the way. Here, this quote says it beautifully:
100000% on point with my perspective on starting this blog. I definitely think my work and style have evolved in these few short months, and I hope it continues to do so.
Ok, but REALLY trying to answer this question… I’d like to say everything I make has an element of chic while still being easy to do. I like clean lines and simple designs, traditional styles with modern touches. I’m big on metallics and neutral or monochromatic palettes, though this summer I really tried to challenge myself with using color and am feeling more confident about that ability. I try to do everything from the perspective of using easily accessible materials and applying simple techniques. It’s hard to say how I’m doing it all completely differently from anyone else, but what makes any work unique is the person behind it, so hey, I guess that goes back to my goal of trying to incorporate more of who I am into this blog!
How does my writing process work?
I don’t have one. Bam. I like to just write on the fly and be as casual as possible. It’s commonly advised to let your writing marinate and edit over days, which I do sometimes, but there’s something about spontaneity (if I’m being real, that word could be replaced with “the last minute”) that gets me flowing. It’s important to note that I don’t always place the highest priority on my writing, which I want to work on. I would love it if everything I wrote was beautifully composed and riveting, but I can admit that I’ll just let the DIYs and photos take the stage a lot of the time.
The way my writing and DIY process works has a lot to do with my limited free time. I work a full time job and usually all I have is a weekend day or weeknight to give it all in one go, so I do. There is definitely a lot to improve about my writing and creative process, but what it comes down to is what fits with my schedule and lifestyle, and so far this is what’s been working for me!
While we’re at it, a little update on things lately… I recently came back from vacay in Chicago (you probably already know this if you follow me on Instagram) and am feeling exhausted and soooooo behind on blogging. Unplugging is both refreshing and stressful. It was great to getaway and relax, but now I’m fighting to get back into the grind and catch up on all the stuff I missed. I know, there’s been a lack of projects around here lately and there won’t be any this week :( but those will start back up again next week! I promise! You’re gonna love it!!!
Back to the blog hop… Now it’s my turn to tag a couple other bloggers to join in on the hop!
Laurel from A Bubbly Life is exactly who you’d think she is just from her blog name. She’s a bubbly sweetheart and shares ultra cute DIY’s and party ideas. She’s also a fellow PBteen DIY contributor! I love her fun and girly style, and we share a love for hearts and gold <3.
Anu from Nalle’s House writes a crazy inspiring blog full of Scandinavian decor and DIY’s. From the second I first saw her blog, I was instantly a fan of her simple and modern style. She is also a mega sweetheart, and gave me helpful info on photography when I reached out to her after starting my blog (do you remember that, Anu??)
Both of these talented ladies will be putting up their Blog Hop posts next Monday, so you know what to do —–> follow them if you aren’t already!
*Image of quote from Promise Tangeman
I love the quote :) That is so so true! xoxo
Yes! I know in my heart every single person understands or will understand the immense truth to that quote <3.
Hello Amy! I love the idea of the blog hop and enjoyed your piece ;) I think you are super talented and creative!
Right back at you, Ursula. Thank you so much!!
I struggle with finding a specific niche too. I just like too much stuff and am constantly wanting to try new things! Oh well – it’s my blog darnit. :)
EXACTLY. I like so so so many things and want to do it all, so I will ;).
Great post Amy. I agree with the quote. I have the same problem with my niche, I want to do a little bit of everything.
Isn’t it great how we all feel the same about this niche issue?? I have to agree that it can just feel very limiting to try and force it. We should just do what we want and go for it!
I’m a new reader, and I think what I like about your blog is your posts and projects and short, simple, and enthusiastic, along with being creative. I even recommended it to my niece, who’s just starting out on her crafting adventures!
Oh my goodness, Katharine. What an amazing compliment! I’m ECSTATIC that you can feel the enthusiasm I put into my projects. Thank you so much! And welcome to you and your niece! Thank you for being here!!!
I’m SO glad you decided to take part in this! That quote holds so much truth and I think we all struggle a little bit with finding our style. Especially in the beginning! I think sharing more personal things will only help your readers relate and keep them coming back for more :)
True that as well. I always love the more personal posts on other blogs!
Amy, you’re too sweet! Yes, I do remember the photography tips. :) I have loved following your blog over the last several months and now learning a little more about you. Lovely post!
Aw, thanks so much, Anu <3 I'm so happy you accepted the tag! Excited to see your post next week!
Great post Amy – I completely relate to your comments around niche – I have yet to define exactly what mine is. My blog is eclectic (because I am) Most of the blogs I read are unique in the areas they cover – they keep me guessing and often don’t stick to one niche.
Cant wait to see what you do with the space around your TV!
I like the way you put it. Changing things up keeps it exciting, and all the more reason not to feel so confined to one niche. I’m so relieved by the discussion that has come up over this and how many of us feel perplexed by it!
Amy you’re such a sweetheart and an inspiration! I’m on exactly the same page with finding it hard to bare all when blogging and I love that you shared so much of yourself in this post. xx
I started off this blog being pretty sure that I’d keep personal things out of it completely. I think it was because I was so concerned about maintaining a strong first impression, which to me meant keeping only my projects in the spotlight and never shining the light on myself as a person. As hard as it still can be for me to open up, I can honestly say… it’s fun, maybe liberating. I don’t know if I’ll ever fully “bare it all”, but so far it isn’t as scary as I thought! Baby steps.
Loved reading this post!! :) Btw, I’m also trying to figure out how to decorate my blank TV wall. I’m looking forward to that post. :)
Daaawwwwwww, thanks girl. Blank TV walls seems to be a common issue. You might even complete yours before I do! For sure the longest procrastinated home project I have.
Amy, loved seeing this peek behind the scenes! I especially liked reading about why you write. I’m excited to see what new columns you have up your sleeve :)
SO happy you enjoyed this, Amy, especially knowing that you connected with the part about why I write. Thanks for your attention <3
Where are the shelves above your desk from? They are great looking!
Thank you, Sarah! They are from IKEA.
Shelves are Ekby Hemnes: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50178779/
Brackets are Ekby Valter, which I spray painted gold: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80167473/#/56696109
I love the idea that the individual aspect of a blog is the person behind it. That really is so true! But it’s just too easy to let the pretty pictures do the talking huh? Maybe we should challenge each other to write personal posts regularly and show our unique qualities that way!
It was so interesting reading more about your life. I can’t wait to see the photo wall when it’s finished. (I need some inspiration for DIY art!) I’d love to read more about your life/job/thoughts. It’s so interesting to delve a little deeper. :)
Yea, TOO easy, and sometimes I wonder if readers only come for the pictures because that’s all they want or if they only connect with the pictures because the writing isn’t there. As a reader and photophile myself though, I’ve found it hard to ignore good writing that just sucks you in.
Thanks so much for the tag, Fran! Really enjoyed participating in this hop!
Amy, I loved reading this and can relate on so many levels, especially the whole job/experience thing. I seriously love EVERYTHING you create and am always so excited to see what you do next! As for feeling behind after going out of town I feel ya girl. Oh my gosh I am feeling so behind on visiting other blogs, responding to comments, leaving comments, working and sharing projects, etc. I think as bloggers we notice those things more than other people do though… or at least that’s what I tell myself to make me feel better, haha. Thanks for sharing a little insight about you and your blog! Have a great week :)
~Katie
Yes, being behind on spreading blog love is always what I feel most guilty about and you’re sooooooo right that these are just blogger woes, haha! Thank YOU Katie for always being so sweet and understanding, and for always pouring love onto what I do <3
Hi, Amy. I did this BLog Hop a few months ago, too, and thought it was difficult to answer some of these questions.
I love your blog. You have a very elegant and lovely style in your projects. I like the quote, too. Hope you are doing great!!
xx
Amy, I loved reading this post! It was nice to read about your writing process because I always wondered how other bloggers do it. I also work 40 hrs a week so my weekends are pretty much dedicated to my blog. Thanks for sharing!
Dear Amy, I couldn’t imagine your blog being any other way. Your style is perfect as it is reflective of where you are in life today. I think we all have different reasons why we start blogging, but in a nutshell we want a creative outlet and we want our inner-voices to be heard. I love that you are using this place to showcase your creativity and your skills. And you have many! I appreciate your blog and you inspire me to keep pushing. Thank you for this personal post. Have a great week!
I thought I commented on this, but that must have been on Instagram? Anyways, I LOVED reading this! What a great series. You are quite the creative force, and it’s so nice to learn more about your motivations and process–thank you for sharing! And I write the same way you do! I’ve always been that way, even when I did a ton of creative writing in high school and for every college paper/poem—writing just does not happen for me when I sit down with the intent to write. Sometimes with DIYs I’ll get a sentence flash through my head here or there, and then go to write it down and might find that I have more to say in that moment. But mostly, my writing has to just “come”, and then I have to write/type as fast as possible to get it all out!
Love this post! I feel the same way about a lot of things, such as feeling like you are a creative person, but not having the resume or job background that reflects that. Also about trying to separate out your style from the crowd. Glad to know that there are others out there who feel the same and have the same goals!
It’s seriously great to see how so many of us creatives share the same struggles. Makes it even more important that we all stick together <3
I'm so happy this post spoke to you! Thanks, Jackie <3
I love your desktop background on your Mac! Where did you get that and any others similar to that?!?
Oana Befort comes out with free desktop backgrounds every month, so I change my background every month :) Check her out here: http://oanabefort.com/