How I Became A Full-Time Blogger

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Romper | Wedges | Bag |  Earrings | Sunglasses

It’s officially been one year since I started full-time blogging. I often get questions about blogging, how I make a living from it, how I got started, etc.  With my one year anniversary of blogging full-time this month, I thought I’d dive into some of these questions and share what I’ve learned.

How Urban Blonde Got Started

When I started my blog back in November 2014, I had no intention of it becoming my full-time job. I remember creating my blog on a whim because I was bored on the couch while Connor was watching football. At the time I was working at my first job in social media and had recently learned how to use WordPress.  As a way to pass the time through the football game, I thought why don’t I create a fashion blog? Fashion has been something I’ve been passionate about since a little girl, so it only seemed natural.

Once I got Urban Blonde up and running, I started posting to my blog and eventually created an Instagram account.  I was shocked when people actually started following me!  One of my biggest fears at the time was, what will people think of my blog?  Will people I personally know make fun of me?  Looking back to my 24-year-old self, I’m so glad I didn’t listen to that fear in my head. It may have held me back from pursuing what I didn’t know at the time would be my dream job!  Getting positive feedback from other bloggers in the fashion community really motivated me and gave me that encouragement that I needed to not hold myself back.

Balancing A Full-Time Job & A Blog

Balancing a full-time 9-5 and a blog is no easy task. Most people don’t understand the in’s and out’s of blogging and how much time and work actually goes into it.  As much as I loved working in social media full-time, I was definitely being stretched thin as more opportunities became available. I was constantly running on 3-4 hours of sleep and would start working on my blog post/social media post the moment I got home from work every day and stayed up late into the night. I utilized the time on my lunch break to shoot photos and used my weekends to edit photos and write content.  I eventually saw the full-potential in what my blog could become and pushed myself to keep a regular post schedule, just like many full-time bloggers I followed. I was physically and emotionally drained and knew that I’d never really be able to monetize my blog the way I truly knew I could.  I’m not afraid of hard work and have always worked my hardest to achieve whatever it is I’m pursuing. I think this is why it took me so long to realize that trying to do everything wasn’t allowing me to have the time to really excel.

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similar maxi romper | earrings | similar clutch

How I Started Full-Time Blogging

In February 2017, I was working at my second full-time social media position. Although I loved my role, it was a bit of an uncomfortable work environment because whole departments of people were constantly being let go.  Eventually, this happened to the entire marketing department, which I should have seen coming. I was then faced with the choice of finding another job or trying to pursue what I’ve wanted to do for years and blog full-time. The thought of relying on my blog was a bit scary!  I was used to having multiple incomes and wasn’t sure how it would work out.  Not to mention, the timing could not have been worse!  This happened just months before I was about to get married. No surprise here, but Connor was beyond supportive! He encouraged me to just take it month by month and see how it goes. I also thought it might be a sign from God, pushing me in the direction of my dreams. I took a leap of faith and am happy to say that a year later, I’m still blogging full-time!

To be completely transparent, I did take on two freelance social media roles that were part-time. They allowed me to work from home and have flexible hours so that I could still focus on my blog.  These were short-term jobs that I’m no longer working at.  However, I’m still open to taking a part-time, remote social media role in the future if it was the right fit for me. Working to grow brands social media is still something I’m passionate about and love doing.

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Wedges | Romper | Bag

Can You Really Make Money Blogging?

Of course, bloggers know this, but yes it is a legit way that people make money. I was aware of this when I started my blog but mostly worked on an exchange basis.  It was not until I grew my following and could clearly add value to brands that I felt comfortable charging. I often get questions about how I make money and partnering directly with brands is the primary way. I also make commission through affiliate sites like Reward Style (LIKEtoKNOW.it) and ShopStyle. There are a number of other ways to earn a living blogging and it’s typically different for every blogger.

What I’ve Learned From Blogging-Full Time

You Define And Determine Your Success

As a blogger, you own your own business and only you can define and determine your success. Yes, you don’t have a boss to report to and you don’t have to sit in an office from 9-5 (which is nice!). But, no one is handing you a paycheck every week or 2 weeks, which can be scary.  If you don’t put in the work, you won’t succeed. I’m a driven person but this in itself is a reality check. It can be extremely stressful if you don’t stay organized and set goals. It’s easy to be hard on yourself trying to do everything as an entrepreneur. You have to find a balance between chasing success and pausing for a moment to recognize your accomplishments.

Know When To Ask For Help

When I started full-time blogging, I thought I’d have all the time in the world to get everything I need done. There’s simply just not enough hours in the day. You can’t be every single thing, and there could be areas that you just simply need help in. For me, website design is something that I have to outsource and plan to improve this year.  I also frequently work with a professional photographer for photos.  If you don’t like editing photos and find someone who can do it even better then you, hire them! It’s part of owning a business.

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It Takes A Lot Of Hustle, Focus & Heart

Working from home has its perks but it can also be a rude awakening. You have to be accountable for yourself constantly and cannot get distracted.  You absolutely have to keep to a schedule because without a salary you’re just that much hungrier. No, I don’t sleep until 10 AM.  I’ve normally have already checked my morning emails, gone to the gym, and am into my work day by then. It takes a lot of hustle and focus just like any business owner.  But in the scheme of things, it’s 100% worth it because I get to wake up every day and do what I love!

Hope you guys enjoyed reading about my blogging journey!  If you have any questions for me you can leave them in the comment section below or send me a DM on Instagram.  Thanks so much for reading!

 

 

 

27 Comments
  • Carolyn

    Thanks for sharing your experience! I always love reading about other people’s journeys. Congrats on being full-time and all the hard work you’ve put into it!

    • Steph

      Thanks so much, Carolyn! xoxo

  • Elsa

    Such a great read! Thanks for sharing your insight.

  • Diana Konkle

    Proud of you!!!!!
    Love,
    Mom❤️

    • Steph

      Thanks mom! Love you! xo

  • Bianca

    Really inspiring! Hope I can take my blog there someday

  • Shilpi

    It is really inspiring . I Hope to create my own blog but i do not know how to start . What do you hhink i should do first!

    • Steph

      Thanks so much! I would start out by making a website. (I use WordPress) Then create an Instagram and start building a following. Hope that helps!

  • Kileen

    Loved reading about your journey! You’re such a boss babe and congratulations!! You’re doing an amazing job!

    Kileen
    cute & little

  • Deborah

    What a great story! I’m still working full time and blogging part time. I don’t think I’m ready to make the jump yet but I love reading stories like this! :]

    • Steph

      Thanks girly! It took me years until I blog full-time! Keep at it and I’m sure you’ll get there! xoxo

  • sharon wu

    being a full time blogger definitely requires a lot of hustle thats for sure. you’re doing great darling!

    • Steph

      Thanks so much, Sharon!

  • Kimmie

    Congrats Steph!! It’s a huge step being able to blog full time and it’s seriously the best feeling ever!!
    xo Kimmie

    • Steph

      Thanks so much, Kimmie! It really is the best feeling! xoxo

  • Debbie Savage

    I am so proud of you! I have been following you from day one! Congrats to you! I am really inspired!
    xo Debbie | http://www.tothineownstylebetrue.com

    • Steph

      Thank you so much, Debbie! That means a lot! 🙂 Love following your blog as well! Have a great weekend! xo

  • the eye traveler

    these looks are so chic! I love how you put together each outfit, keep it up girl <3

  • Helen

    Your post is really inspiring! Congratulations on being a full time blogger! Never give up and continue to inspire other people. 🙂

  • Lacey

    Loved hearing your story! You go boo!

    xx,

    Lacey

  • Talina

    This was such a great read! It makes me so happy to see other bloggers pursuing their dreams and I’m happy things are going well for you! <3

  • Bernice

    So many bloggers I follow now have gone or are going full time! Glad a bad time turned into a beautiful opportunity for you xx

    https://www.bunnybernice.com/single-post/2018/02/24/Wedding-Garters-are-they-needed-and-do-you-throw-yours

  • Mary Powers

    These are great tips!! Congrats on one year full-time blogging!

    – Mary
    http://www.MissMaryPowers.com

  • Jessica

    Thanks for sharing your story dear! Such a beautiful and inspiring read. And yes! you define and determine your success. Put in the work and you will see results.

    Jessica | notjessfashion.com

  • Candace

    This is so inspiring! I make my 1 year in June and it has definitely not been easy. It takes a lot of dedication and sacrifice, that’s for sure!

  • ~Tha~Golden~Lady~

    Well done you clever girl ! So inspiring and encouraging to do better by reading a summary of your experience… Thx so much for sharing 🙂 x
    http://www.thagoldenlady.com

  • Kristin Taylor

    I love these summer-tastic pics of you, and I also enjoyed learning about your path to becoming a full-time blogger! Such a great story, thanks for sharing, honey!