I can’t believe I’m saying this but this month marks my 4th Blog Anniversary! Exactly 4 years ago, the 7th of April 2014, an enthusiastic corporate working mother created a blog called What Would V Wear, in the hopes to connect with other fashionistas around the globe. Little did I know back then where my blog would take me… and ultimately push me to make a new & bold career change.
How I started blogging…
I initially started blogging in 2010 but I didn’t continue since I started a corporate job that same year. However, I always wanted to be in fashion and I never let go of it either. So, it didn’t take long until I returned back to it. On April 4th, 2014 I created a blog from scratch (!) on wordpress.com and hit the publish button yet again in the hopes to connect with other fashion enthusiasts from around the globe. About 3 weeks later I received a notification from New York Magazine “The Cut” that my outfit was featured (check it out HERE). I was speechless (I remember dancing and jumping around while my husband looked at me in disbelief, like I’m crazy!) but it was then and there that I decided that I must continue and not quit. I felt it in my heart that good things will come and so I worked really hard while working full-time and being a mother to a toddler. And the hard work paid off. After 1.5 years into blogging and lots of sleepless nights, I was able to turn my blog into a business and hence take this gig full-time. I started gaining more traction when I went full-time—my story was publicized on Racked, CNBC, Who What Wear, and more. You can read my story for these news outlets HERE.
Lessons I’ve learned along the way…
…the importance of blogging consistently and responsibly. It’s been said, “only a small percentage of blogs survive their first year” which is why it’s so important to have a set posting schedule. If you tell yourself to post every Monday be sure to do so. Don’t let your readers down. They will get used to your schedule and expect a new post every Monday.
Create a community. No one ever started a business and just sat there thinking that traffic will come by itself. It’s the same with a blog, i.e. website. Just because you have a website doesn’t mean thousands of people will come find your website. Believe it or not but you have to put hard work into it and create a community. Develop relationships via blog commenting, social media promotions and guest posting.
Be active on social media. Social media is bigger and more influential than ever. In fact, most of my business comes from my social media channels. Same rule goes for social media—be active, know your audience and engage with them!
…and last but not least…PATIENCE. Do not expect to become an overnight sensation. Some grow faster than others but that doesn’t mean your success will not come. If you truly want to be successful you must not quit. That is honestly the biggest lesson and probably the most important one.
And Finally, Thank YOU!!!!
As What Would V Wear grows each year, one thing will always remain constant and that is my love and appreciation for you all. I can’t stress enough that it’s your emails and comments, and heartwarming stories that keep me going each day. In return, I am always trying my best to respond to all of emails and questions I receive from you.
I truly appreciate your support and love, and I want to thank you from bottom of my heart.
Congretulations!๐๐โจ๐๐๐๐๐
Nice entry, I’m here for the first time and maybe I will stay longer!
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Congratulations Babe!! You made a good job…
Hope to read more ftom you..๐๐
Congratulations Vanessa, good work!
Have a nice weekend!
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Happy 4th Blog Anniversary, Vanessa! It’s crazy how time flies when you’re having fun. I have been following along since just about the beginning, but had no idea you first started blogging in 2010. I’m so glad you decided to start it back up in 2014! I completely agree about creating a posting schedule and sticking to it. Being dependable for your readers is so important! Hope you have a great weekend, Vanessa!
xo, Rachel
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I really loved reading your blog. I also found your posts very interesting. In fact after reading, I had to go show it to my friend and he ejoyed it as well!
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French style: here is the new password. It does not matter where you come from or where you live.
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Happy Blog Anniversary! It’s been fun watching you on this journey with fashion as well as your family life. Thanks for sharing with all of us. Happy Friday!
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Congratulations! This is a serious milestone ๐
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Happy Blogiversary!! You always amazed and I am seriously inspired by your blog and how you handle your business!
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Yay! Happy blogiversary babe and congratulations to all the success. Here’s to much more and many succesful years ahead. So happy to call you my blog friend V! Xx
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Congrats Vanessa!! I started my blog in Feb of 2014 but didn’t seriously start posting until the summer of 2016!! I honestly regret not starting it sooner. But that’s life!
Jennifer
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Congrats Vanessa for coming so far! Keep it up!
Mich x
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Congratulations, it’s important to be social on social media that’s for sure, however it’s also important to take breaks also. Get the balance right and you’ve hit the nail on the head.
Be passionate about your content and enjoy talking with your readers ๐
Laura xo
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I still remember your farewell party at work and feeling so crazy inspired at the path you chose. I had a written blog mainly for family/friends since 2011 but you inspired me so much to leave the office life and pursue my blog on social media and itโs been such a fun time. I hope to continue to grow and refuse to give up on myself. Thank you for that inspiration.
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Thanks for sharing your story. Great advice! I always enjoy coming to your blogger. Your style and personality is refreshing. Congratulations on all your accomplishment!
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Happy 4th blog anniversary โค
This blog is so useful for freshers like me who’ve just started blogging !! Big thanks to you for this one ๐
Amazing
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Congretulations! Happy 4th blog anniversary)))) Good work!
Congretulations! Happy 4th blog anniversary๏ผ
Actually is my first time to visit your blog, but like your blog so much!
Stay good work!
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