Before starting this blog 7 months ago, I had never read one nor fully understood what a blog was. I read an article written by someone in the graphic design industry that discussed the value of a blog and reasons why a design professional should have one. So I thought what the heck, it’s worth a try! Getting started was a bit tough and I received much encouragement from my husband, clients, and many others.

In honor of my 7th month blog anniversary, here are seven things I know for sure about being the proud editor of BluLabel Bungalow:

1. Blogging has kept me in the know regarding what’s hot in the design industry.
Entrepreneurship can be a lonely venture and staying plugged into the design community takes more effort as opposed to working for an established firm. Trends come, go, then come back around again. It also helps that I receive emails from publicists regarding their clients products and services.

Last fall, I listed what I thought was hot before reading design journals and mags. BluLabel Bungalow’s 2009 Fall Trend Series consisted of six design trends and was a post in which I received countless visits.
2. Blogging has allowed me to meet some awesome individuals.
I actually wrote this post in September thanking them for being so supportive. Every time I visit their blogs I feel a kinship almost like stopping by to say hello to a friend!

3. Blogging can be a huge time commitment!
I’ve had blog posts that took anywhere from 2-6 hours to write. I would be awake into wee hours in the morning researching topics or searching for images to communicate a point. The post found here took me about 4 hours from start to finish! When I compose a blog post, I have a picture in my mind of how I want it to look. Most times the images I want can’t be found on the internet so I customize others to fit my blog. I love inserting my comments. This is something I do when I read design mags as well.
4. Blogging was frustrating until…
I found Google Analytics. After spending much time composing my blog post, I would get discouraged when I felt no one was reading. Thank goodness for Google Analytics, it told a completely different story. I learned that my blog has a very healthy readership! I appreciate everyone who drops by, comment or no comment.

5. Blogging encourages me to stay true and be original.
Blogging is so much easier when you don’t concerning yourself with what someone else is writing about. I admit I hate to see bloggers talking about the exact same thing, at the same time, and using the same images! As a result, I resolve in 2010 to show more of my work and design projects in my own home. They are actually some of my more popular post!

http://www.blulabelbungalow.com/2009/11/ewi-project-avondale-estates-counseling.html
http://www.blulabelbungalow.com/2009/11/ewi-project-preview-atlanta-bedroom.html
http://www.blulabelbungalow.com/2009/10/evolution-of-my-home-office-part-i.html
http://www.blulabelbungalow.com/2009/11/evolution-of-my-home-office-part-2.html

Updates will be posted soon!

6. Blogging has been good for my business.
Around September of this year (4 months into blogging), I began to receive emails from readers soliciting design assistance. One room designs have evolved into repeat business as well as referrals. I’m truly grateful!

7. Blogging reminds me of the importance of being relatable.
TamStyles of GIGS advised me to offer readers a piece of me and my life. I’ve done quite a bit of that in the past couple of months. Hopefully, I haven’t appeared narcissistic! Between my birthday, my wedding anniversary, and the holidays my family has made many appearances this month!

Thanks to all my readers for a beautful beginning and I look forward to bringing you more design inspiration in the upcoming year. Cheers to you!