I have been blogging for five years now and I LOVE it. Blogging easily combines most all of the things that I like to to do: concept development and storytelling, graphic design and photography, connecting with like-minded souls, curating and shopping, making stuff, putting unexpected things together and sharing. I enjoy the fast pace and the challenge of thinking of something new to write about each day. Blogging has helped me to become a better writer and a better photographer–it’s helped me to become lightening quick on many computer programs and has also helped me to slow down and enjoy the journey. I’ve also met a lot of new friends who I know will be a part of my life for years to come.
Since I was very young, I’ve been the type of person to create scrap books full of pictures, drawings, ticket stubs and pressed flowers–I even made my own personal “yearbooks” that covered all four years of high school. For my college thesis at UCLA I created a digital and print magazine called “Infinity Magazine” (I kinda cringe looking back on it now but it demonstrates my early interest in the medium) and before starting my blog I had worked as a writer and editor for many print magazines and I also authored four craft books.
I never set out to become a ‘blogger’ as a career (especially because I didn’t even know what a blog was until I was 28) but in the last eighteen months or so my audience has grown enough that I have started to make money as a blogger and an influencer. My other job titles (art-director, designer, stylist) have taken a back-seat to this new career-path of mine. This also has to do with being a new mom. As I sit and type this Ida is nursing (well, she’s fallen asleep on the breast and is actually using me as a pacifier but ANYways…) and being able to stay home with her and work from anywhere is huge.
So, it has only been in the last few months that I’ve been owning the whole blogger thing as a job-title. When people ask me what I do for a living, I used to respond designer. But now-a-days, blogger is actually a more honest answer. As young as the term is, blogger already feels very loaded with all kinds of connotations, some of which I feel reluctant to own–and don’t get me started on the term influencer. I think it sounds somehow obnoxious and creepy at the same time, and I don’t like to think of myself as either of those things.
I often marvel myself that I’ve figured out a way to make a living doing all of the VERY idiosyncratic things that I love to do. I don’t take it for granted and I don’t discount the people and frankly, the luck, that got me to this place. I do my best to use my ‘influence’ for good–to help to promote ideas, things and people that I feel are good (not that I’m a Mother Teresa or anything, but I try)–and to portray an honest version of myself online–so that if you were to meet me in person, there would be no disconnect between the Justina that you know from the blog and the Justina that you meet IRL–that is VERY important to me.
That having been said, I often feel like my career as a blogger is tenuous– so much of how I make money is based on numbers: followers, unique visitors, pageviews and ‘friends’ (between BIG quotes) and this is the part of the job that I don’t love: the popularity contests, the worrying about alienating viewers and/or brands, trying to balance ‘original content’ with ‘sponsored content’ staying true to my ‘brand,’ checking stats and comparing my successes with those of my peers. This beautiful world can get kinda ugly sometimes–but I guess that just comes with the territory.
So, just as I try and be honest with you, I would love it if you all would be honest with me…I want this blog to be a place that inspires and encourages you as much as possible. I would like to know what you like to find when you click over into this space. I would like to know what makes you come back here if you come back often, or what you’d like to see more of or less of, what brought you here in the first place, what drives you away. Do you like to read posts or do you mainly look at pictures? Do giveaways turn you on or off? Do you like the recipes and DIY’s or would you prefer more interiors and less of everything else? Have I gone overboard with my #Idagrams?
If this is going to be my job job, than I want to be the best at it that I can be–so I would truly love to hear from you. Thank you for being the reason I can do what I love everyday. No seriously. Thank you.
The above compilation of #justinaincopenhagen instagrams were most ‘liked’ photos from the 150+ pictures I shared on IG in my six week stay here. It’s always interesting to me to see which images resonate most.
I go back home tomorrow–so I’ll see you all back in Cali on Friday. Off to finish packing…
annton says
actually, I cannot recall what has brought me here, in the first place. some lucky coincidence, I guess. but what always brought me back, was you. your blog to me, is perfectly balanced between those different kind of topics and areas and it never ceases to be authentic. the second thing, that will keep me around, is your amazing sense of color. looking through all those greens, yellows or the pink, is like a shower of fresh air. as a color addict, what better could be there? I don’t care a lot about giveaways. they don’t turn me off, but inspiration to me, is much more precious than actual things. and off that, you’re giving away a lot. thank you for that.
p.s. there can never be too much Ida. she is far too cute for that. and on a serious note, she is simply a huge part of your life.
Justina Blakeney says
Thank you Annton for your feedback! You’ve been a great ‘reader’ and I’ve loved our social media exchanges <3
Sarah says
aesthetic inspiration! I love the interiors, curated collections, trend spotting, shopping ideas and photography, I like that the giveaways and recipes are occasional rather than a big part of your blog and I love the #Idagrams :-)
Angela henrie says
Justina,
You know what I love about you?
Besides your obvious talents in writing and styling…
You are authentic. You are true.
I love that.
Keep on!
Love, angela
Melissa says
Hello, not sure how I stumbled into your blog but I’ve been a follower ever since, love the decorating ideas, your style of clothing, the way you express yourself through words – makes me feel present. I’ve enjoyed your vacation pictures too. Keep doing what you do, don’t think you can go wrong with doing what you love.
THANK YOU for sharing
– Melissa
Sabrina says
I like actually reading posts, and my favorite kinds are interiors and DIY. I don’t care about giveaways and recipes, but they don’t happen often enough for it to turn me off your blog.
I also like posts with photography, whether Instagram or otherwise. I’m not on Instagram itself so it’s fun to see round-ups like this, with accompanying text.
antojki says
Nice posting, i like that
I love all the art pict
Fenn says
I wrote out a comment and it disappeared! Ugh.
I could get all listy and say I dislike the recipes and the giveaways, but I like your overall content and skip the few things that disinterest me.
What I like best about your blog is how much it seems to be about YOU. It’s warm and welcoming and doesn’t feel like it’s written by a celebrity blogger. Your blog feels like I’m getting to know a new friend, it feels authentic. I like how you post pretty things, but you also talk about your insecurities or ask for advice from your readers. I like that we have such different tastes, and I like learning about yours.
Mostly, I just think if you keep it real, I’ll keep coming around, no matter how much this blog becomes your job.
Justina Blakeney says
Thanks for your honesty and this is really helpful. I like that you feel like our tastes are different but that mine doesn’t turn you off :D
hannah says
i’ve only been following your blog for a few months’ time, but i really love it. you’re so honest! it’s refreshing. and there can never be too many #idagrams; that girl is a doll-baby.
Jennifer says
Thanks for sharing this Justina! You really make it all look so easy, but I know its a lot of hard work that you put into your blog and being a mom and everything else you do:) Thanks for being so faithful to your readers! I really tend to like the interiors and features of others houses that you produce. Your style is so unique and fun and I love to get ideas for my own from your features.
Thanks again!
Jennifer
Caitlin says
I think what is best about this blog is the areas that are infused with you! You are such a fun, happy, and positive force with a strong,unique vision and I just love it when you translate this vision, either through a DIY project, or a pinterest roundup of jungalow-inspired items. I also love your personal posts, I adore your strong voice, confidence, and how you don’t take sh*t from anyone – I hope to be more like someday.
And there can NEVER be too many Idagrams ;)
I hope you have a safe flight home (for your fam and all of your new souvenirs) !
Justina Blakeney says
oh gosh I love that you think I don’t take shit from anyone! Eeeeek– I wish i took even *less* shit than I do. Hehe. Thanks for the feedback!
Cori Magee says
The best part about your blog is your personality. I also love your design ideas and inspiration. But you can’t have one without the other.
Your honesty in what scares you, motivates you, makes you happy, sad… is so inspiring! :)
Anathalia says
Another blogger mentioned your online class and that’s what brought me here. What makes me return is how authentic you are. I love seeing your home and your ideas.
Nancy Carr says
Justina, You are much different than the other blogs I follow. You are fresh, international in scope, and very interesting. I do not know how I found you several months ago. Ida is so wonderful and I love to see and hear about her. You balance your personal life and other interests very well in your blog. I feel you are much more evolved as a human and your outlook on the world. You are true to your authentic self and it comes through in your blog. This is what keeps me looking forward to see what you write and inspire me with. I look forward to seeing how you and your life continue to unfold. Blessings
Justina Blakeney says
Nancy, I’m so glad you think that I balance personal/design stuff well on the blog b/c that was a concern for sure. I’m also happy that you mentioned ‘international in scope’ because that is a goal of mine for this space. Thank you for these insightful words and blessings back to you!
Lynette says
I love, love, LOVE your blog! You have impeccable taste…especially in baskets! If I had the money I would pay you to come redo my whole house.
Shannon Flaherty Randall says
oooo i just loved reading everyone else’s comments about how they feel about you and your blog. so cool. you’re obviously doing a stellar “job”… : ) i LOVE everything you do, and I love, love, love all the recipes you and Caitlin share in the “Mangiona with Caitlin Levin” column. And I like giveaways too! And Ida! And color. And your multi-culti-social-eco savoir faire! And I love you. You hella fly. : )
jacqueline says
I love your style and honest personality…DIY’s, recipes, and you sharing what it is like to be a Mama. All great stuff. I am an artist, mother, and art teacher and love your ideas, design style, and reading all about your little one.
By the way–a recent post about post-baby weight…my daughter is 1 1/2 and a student (5th grade) asked me if I was pregnant the other day. I was wearing a high-waisted skirt, but…hmm, kids can be brutally honest!
Justina Blakeney says
I get it too with the high waist stuff—but they’re so cute darnet!!
Jay Coffin says
My best friend introduced me to your blog and it is the perfect mix of both of our tastes. She is a little more Bohemian and I am organic modern, and you have elements of both. I am absolutely inspired by your blog and you personally. I love how personal and real you can be in your posts.
I also think that being a problogger is an admirable job. Make it work girl.
I also think that good advertisements and sponsored posts are wonderful and inspiring.
Justina Blakeney says
That’s great to hear that you think that good sponsored posts can be inspiring too! I try and make them as honest as the rest of my content. Thank you so much for sharing!
Mutaleni says
Justina, i love that i found your blog. I visit it often – especially when i miss some original inspiration. Your images often have me getting up and running outside to savour the sunlight or enjoy my garden. Your interior design work and photography inspire me. I love that you are not all about buying stuff, that you actually make things and use existing or found material for your projects.
Your life philosophies are also truly beautiful. Whether writing about voluptious female figures in art, or commemorating May day, or digging up self-grown potatoes from your garden… your voice is inspiring. On some other blogs I sometimes feel like a number. But here it feels authentic. You somehow manage a nice balance between your personal life (your wedding – wow!), parenting, design, travel… and PLANTS, PLANTS, PLANTS!!!
I am happy blogging is your calling. Keep doing what you do. I love it!
Justina Blakeney says
Thank you for mentioning that I am not all about buying stuff. I try REALLY hard to balance the ‘buying’ with the makings (and remaking) so that’s really nice to hear. And I’m glad that you share my love of plants!
the other emily says
I’m not at all a regular commenter (lazy), but after reading this post I wanted to hop over from Google Reader to give a little feedback – I think the Jungalicious interiors were what first brought me here, but it was really the Zany & Zaftig posts and general vibe of bodacious-body-positivity that really resonated and had me reading back through your archives. The candid way you’ve talked about loving (and sometimes struggling to love) your bod is something I really admire, and find to be all-too-rare on these big bad Internets, so I do hope that’s a conversation you’ll keep sharing with us here. (Plus, your personal style is super fun and awesome, so there’s that.)
Justina Blakeney says
Yes! I will keep sharing my body struggles (and celebrations) with you all here–glad you find the posts engaging and thank you for sharing.
Camille says
Awesome post, Justina. I often think that if I ever met you IRL, you’d be the exact same gal, I occasionally tweet with online. (Your transparency is probably what sets you far apart from other blogs that I read.) You’re honest and seem down to earth, which I really appreciate.
As far as content, I love everything you post. But I’m particularly interested in your journey of motherhood and your adventures with Ida and J. There are a lot of motherhood/family blogs, but yours has always seemed the most honest (and less, “everything is perfect!”) and I think that resonates with a lot of folks.
Keep doing what you do, gal! You’re awesome.
Justina Blakeney says
Thank you so much Camille–I do aim for transparency and I’m so glad you noticed that. <3
Errol says
I think I first was brought in by fashion pins, it’s hard to find young, fun, creative, fuller figure style icons. I keep coming back because of the Ida stories, it’s great to share another mom’s journey. The decorating pieces are always fun. Keep being your diverse self!
Rosa Evans says
I was first attracted by an awesome black and white photo of you pregnant. Then I quickly realised that your taste & style is refreshing & amazing. Why do I come back? The humour! You write with flair & the word creation cracks me up. The colour & pattern, the quality of your presentation & the graphics are all top shelf. THE PLANTS. The thrifting and upcycling. The fact that your home is full of life & creativity whilst remaining completely unpretentious. Your boldness & confidence without arrogance.
I find it very interesting that you delve below the surface, for example I wouldn’t expect to pick up an interiors or fashion magazine & see an article asking ‘Is this frivolous?’ Really great stuff, more posts like that please! Musings about the weird world of blogging and being an ‘influencer’ are cool too. I like that you reply to questions and comments, not all bloggers do. I would probably comment more but don’t want to be weird or stalkerish, so there’s another topic for discussion!
I love Ida, and reading about your experience of motherhood. I guess it helps I have a daughter of a similar age, but as annton said above she is a huge part of your life, and I believe people are genuinely touched that you share those joyful images of her. I’d personally like to see more Ida posts ha ha, and more Ida inspired stuff, e.g. global baby fashion finds & fresh kids interiors ideas. As she gets older she will inspire all kinds of coconut sharpie style DIY stuff too, you will have so much fun with her!
I do feel though that the parenting stuff is a minefield, for example if you were to publicly align yourself with the ‘natural attachment parents’ you risk alienating the more mainstream parents who do the controlled crying etc, and vice versa. It’s so damned controversial, and such a personal choice, I would probably steer clear of it. The child immunisation debate is raging in Australia at the moment & it’s not pretty. But hey that’s just my opinion :-)
The giveaways are not always interesting to me, perhaps because they are often US based & I’m in the land down under. However I understand that this is how blogging works so it is not an issue. I enjoy the odd recipe for sure. I’m waiting for homewares, jewelry, dresses, kimonos & swimsuits designed by Justina! The positive body image stuff is very valuable – keep putting it out there please. When we move into our next place I’d like to do one of your styling classes, the before & after shots from the last one were very cool. I would always be interested in buying limited edition prints of your own work, love those ‘Life of Poppy’ prints.
Your Copenhagen trip has been fascinating to follow. Love those thrifted finds. My career suggestions? Perhaps you could just continue to adventure to amazing places & report back with insights & inspiration for us all? Australia has some crazy flora & fauna to check out! You could do lots of sneak peeks into interesting homes and shops, lots of photos & commentary. Whilst you’re at it you can launch the Justina homewares & fashion label & model your own creations in exotic locations. Oh and a kids clothing range too please, modeled by your little flower. Yep, sounds pretty good to me :-) Yay for building a career doing what you love!
Justina Blakeney says
Thank you so very much for this insightful and thoughtful comment Rosa. I struggle a bit with ‘baby fashion finds’ because I’m careful about not ‘using’ Ida in commercial ways on blogs–probably another topic to discuss here on the blog. And yes–the parenting stuff is certainly a minefield–some of which I’m willing to dance on, others I’m a bit more reluctant.
And thanks for your words about waiting for a product line from me. I’m waiting too–haha. I need to find the right people to partner with for this–something I’ve been thinking a lot about in the last few months…so we’ll see how it goes!
And I love your suggestion about my future career trajectory uh…yes please!!! Big hugs, and again thanks for taking the time!! xx J
Tiffany says
I love reading about your style (clothes, outfits, hair, home styling) and your thoughts on life: motherhood, business(as above), travel adventures, etc. Your creativity is what draws me back again and again,and as others have said – your authenticity. Best of luck to you as you continue on!
Joli says
I return for your special brand of optimism. You see the world, you seize the world, and you name it also — honesty and joy. You cure with color and energy. I also love your curiosity. Not everyone would get up to find more about a circus tent. You are curious about the natural world also. I dig your multi-culti everything. I love that you love your parents. I love that you struggle mildly with surrendering to mommydom and weightdom. Giveaways are mildly interesting, but in no way an inducement. Love your authentic ways of, oh, slipping in your meet-cute story. Never tire of #Idagrams. Ever. Please don’t become self-conscious, just do whatcha do. The circus bit was a perfect post. Thxoxo!
Justina Blakeney says
you have a way with words! Thank you for taking the time to share, Joli!
Titti @ Shoestringpavilion says
I like that you’re different. Your blog definitely stands out from the crowd in that it’s colorful, ethnic and void of all the usual “professional blogger speak”. And that you dare to state your opinions and likes despite what that might do to your reader numbers. Maybe others are more easily offended than I am but I just skip the stuff that doesn’t appeal to me and linger on what I do like. I don’t read it all but once in a while you’ll catch my attention :) Most blogs I scroll through pretty quickly for the avalanche of inspirational pics. The style is definitely the main draw for me, bohemian and colorful.
Elizabeth says
Not super erudite, but what everyone else said! Keep being you – I love everything about this blog. All the best!
Liz says
Justina,
You have articulated, in a ‘mulling-over’ kinda way, the pros,cons and constant soul-searching that any long-term blogger goes through. I can’t thank you enough, as an A-list pro-blogger, for airing these thoughts, doubts, and joys (Ida is a joy that truly needs to stay centre stage btw).
I have run a destination blog on a small island in the Med for the past four years. I barely scratch a living from it (I don’t in fact) but the content is well received, but freely given and consumed. I have got to the point where I am not sure I can carry on with it. Hours spent worrying about the odd sponsored post upsetting the balance, yet craving an income of sorts from it. We live in a world where ‘content’ (aka writing, creativity of almost all kinds) is expected for free. I think you’ve a world market and hit the Zeitgeist, post after post, so just keep on doing what yer doin gal! My blog is a very limited market and while ‘worthwhile’ in its niche, is unable to create cash (although it it to all intents a full-time job!). Hard to call it a day and let folks down, but your post has helped my decision. I’ve a new blog started mind you, and one that is more ‘me’ and less ‘place’ I think you struck a chord by being just you! Honesty is the heart of any great, long-term blog and blogger! Tnx for this post no end.
Justina Blakeney says
I’m so glad you found it helpful! Thanks for your kind words and good luck with the direction of your blog–no matter how you decide to approach it!
Nan says
I think what you’re doing is working pretty great — you share your talents but come across as real. You share a little of your life and honest opinions too, which is important. Your blog is a nice mix and doesn’t have that “humble-brag” feel, which I think many of us have had enough of already. Love your ideas and also appreciate your sources — I love ethnic stuff too and have found some great links here. (also love the Idagrams! what a CUTIE)
Justina Blakeney says
haha the ‘humble brag’ I love that and TOTALLY know what you mean and I’m SO GLAD you don’t think I do that becasue it’s SO irritating. hahaha!!
Roza says
Dear Justina,
I have been following your blog for about 6 months now and it is definitely one of my favorites. I love your style and design tips. To be honest, I think you have a great balance of posts and I think readers understand that give-aways and sponsored posts are just part of the blogging world. I’ve never been turned off by a sponsored post and given that you stay true to your brand, sponsored posts are mutually beneficial. it’s great to be exposed to new products!
And I think there could never be too many Ida-grams. Thank you for sharing that part of your life with us. She is beyond adorable and it is a joy to watch her grow.
Also, props for asking us for feedback. That is not always an easy thing to do but I think it’s one of the best ways for people to grow and improve. You’ve inspired me to ask for more feedback in my life too.
Thanks for your wonderful blog, I think your personality really comes through and that is one reason why your readers enjoy your blog so much.
All the best!
Roza
Justina Blakeney says
awww thanks Roza–so glad you like that I ask for feedback! It’s just how I roll-but yes–I do think it’s so important!!
Julia says
Why I follow you: your style (I love layering, plants, patterns, more patterns, bright colors, thrifted things, more plants…), that as a mixed-race woman the sea of whiteness of style blogs sometimes blinds me and I like feeling less alone, your willingness to address things like body image and body love in a real way.
What I would like to see more of: discussion about the ethics of this new blogging/design/trend/consumer world. I want to know about sweatshops and labor standards and whether the people who make the stuff bloggers pimp have the time or energy or funds to decorate/enjoy their own homes and families. I want to see bloggers who call out retailers of all sizes when they acknowledge individual white/first world “designers/artists” but lump together groups of non-white/poorer “artisans/craftspeople” under descriptions like “ethnic” and “ancient tradition”. I want to see bloggers address things like the building collapse in Bangladesh as horrors that we are complicit in in some way, by comparing low prices rather than good wages or sustainability. I have personally struggled since I was a teen to balance my art/design self (loves pretty new things) with my ethical self (doesn’t want to exploit/oppress others) and it’s hard.
Justina Blakeney says
YES. I hear you Julia. I would like to focus more on many of these issues. I am passionate about ‘knowing where stuff comes from’ and completely agree about the word “ethnic” (barf) — it’s almost as bad as “exotic” (double barf). Thanks for this I will totally keep this in mind.
Gwendolyn says
Hi Justina
Your personality and unique point of view really makes the blog what it is!
Lisa Gylling says
Hi, Tonia from Chic Modern Vintage sent me, and I’m glad I did!
Wow, your site and photos are so vibrant, I love it!
I’m going to hang out here for a while but I thought I’d say ‘hi’ first.
Take care,
Lisa
http://Www.popcornserveddaily.com
http://Www.TheGoodwillGal.com
Ada says
Justina, I just wanted to say that I love your blog! And I’m sending kisses and best wishes from Poland :)
Theresa says
I love that you take us on the journey with you. Your honesty and creativity is inspiring plus your style has kinda grown on me.
camille says
I think you and your sister were Fly Girls of the Week on Fly and that hipped me to you. As a longtime blogger and blog reader I love it when my fave bloggers become successful with integrity. I remember a very similar post by Emily the crafty, paleo, kinda crunchy mommy blogger over at Joyful Abode. I’ve learned so much from her and I think sponsorship has helped the blog to continue when she might have otherwise burned out and quit. I wish youeever more success and I hope some of dollars and cents can go towards that. Just tell me how!
Sarah says
I’ve been a daily reader for probably around 2 years (found you via Pinterest) and I want to answer all of your questions point by point, but I worry a little because it tugs at the distinction between what you as a blogger want vs what we as readers want. And we’re here because we love it, after all! So if you really want me to break it down, I could– my mom’s a designer, so I grew up giving constructive criticism :) But, plain and simple, I love your authenticity. I can tell that you have a strong sense of self and that you are an intelligent woman. I love that you blog about IDEAS. As a reader, I connect to the whole “I saw this, it made me think of this, wouldn’t it look cool like this?”– it makes us go YES, exactly! I like that you listen to your readers. Just keep on doing what you’re doing!
Justina Blakeney says
YES! I try and share ‘ideas’ more than ‘stuff’ in this space and I’m so glad that you picked up on that. Thanks Sarah!
Sierra says
I’ve been reading your blog in my rss reader for about 6 months. I love your abundant use of color in images, your honesty with content and your writing style. Being a designer myself, I relate to much of what you post but interesting as I am not a mother, I almost enjoy more your thoughts on motherhood and how it has affected you physically and mentally. Most of all however, I enjoy the mix of it all. Many congrats to you on the success of it and I can’t wait to keep reading!
cinthya says
I came here because of Jennifer Young. I saw that she mentioned you (I believe it was your wedding pictures) in a post or on twitter, anyway, I’m such a fan of Jen’s photography and she is such a sweet person that I figured there had to something about you that I would love. And, absolutely, there was. You are so true to yourself and different than other blogs I follow. You are creative and colorful and I love that. Even better, you are a woman of color and there aren’t enough of us (like, none actually) in the creative LA blogging circle I like to tap in to for inspiration.
All of your posts are great and I can definitely see why you’d be weary to go in the direction this blog is pushing you. There are other bloggers who I’ve completely stopped following because their transition to “pro-blogger” was not graceful. You, however, don’t seem to be one of those people (this post is a great example) and I suspect you’ll handle the growth of your blog with the sincerity and honesty that you seem to apply to everything else.
Your honesty about motherhood, in particular, is one of the more “substantive” issues that keeps bringing me back. But of course, I also love your creativity and your design aesthetic. I feel that the balance is very good.
OK, all that to say: Keep being you, lady!
Justina Blakeney says
Such a sweet comment and I am so happy that you think I’m transitioning ‘gracefully.’ I stopped reading a few blogs for the same reason and so I was worried—but this feels reassuring. thanks Cinthya.
Uncle Beefy says
My Miss Justina,
Love – no – LOVE this post! I know the “authenticity” has been bandied about the blogosphere a lot this year but, child, you aren’t talking it, you’re being it. And that’s what makes all the difference. You are deliciously *you* and I’d say just keep doing how you do.
I feel you in your thought processes and considerations in navigating the open waters of professional blogging and I think they are important considerations to make. But, in the end, the best and most unique thing we have to give to the blogosphere and the world at large is ourselves. And you do that so exquisitely.
And bring on the Ida! She makes my heart hurt in the best way with her impossible cuteness.
xo UB :)
Justina Blakeney says
hahaha, you crack me up. Thank you for this response, dear Uncle. Which reminds me that I will be in Seatlle in August and I want to meet you! (and so does Ida!)
dervla says
love this Justina, i know you hate some of the blogger connotations but you epitomize what’s best about blogging for me (and what’s best about my favorite bloggers, too). And now with the addition of Ida to your family we’re getting to see another side of you.
Justina Blakeney says
Dervla–that is so great to hear, truly. Thank you so much! As a new-mom I sometimes feel that the blog content is hurting because I’m often rushed through doing posts etc. But I think that ultimately you are right and that motherhood has actually made this blog a better place to be–for me too. :D
Elena says
I love your blog. It’s refreshing and I love the vibe. I love the eclectic style you have, and that’s what keeps me coming back ;)
These days I feel so turned off by blogs that seem like infomercials. Constant flashing about buying products that, well, not everyone can afford. Or blogs that nowadays are just all about product. I get it, bloggers need sponsors. Products come and go. What I need are ideas.
Justina Blakeney says
YES. I hear you on the informercial thing. i promise this space will never be like that.
Clare says
I don’t think I have ever commented here before but I do enjoy your blog and often read it. I am crap at keeping up with the blogs I like because I don’t have one of my own and so don’t have a regular way of checking in with the blogs I like other than remembering and looking for them, so Pinterest (which I love and do check in with regularly) works really well for me. When you post something from your blog on Pinterest it reminds me to click trough and catch up on your blog.
Anyway, just thought this might be useful info for you – I am sure others do this too.
I love almost everything design wise you post and have quite similar taste to you I think, very 60s, nice mid century pieces mixed up with great exotic prints and other bits from morocco, africa etc. And plants of course! I am glad you are making a living doing this, that is heartening news.
Clare x
Jesse says
Your blog is very bright and uplifting and beautiful but I keep coming back because its so honest and real and funky monkey. Most blogs want to show you only perfection, an airbrushed pottery barn picture. And I have my swin suit problem solved as well and I have a planter made out of a thai coconut so thank you so much for that as well
Justina Blakeney says
hahah!! Thank you. So glad you’re summer is all hooked up ;)
Justina Blakeney says
*your
Carolina Elizabeth says
You are such a lovely girl. Thank you for all the wonderful images with beautiful colors that inspire my paintings. kindest regards, Carolina Elizabeth
Amy says
Please oh please do not change your blog into a ‘brand’. Keep it YOU. In the last few years I have watched a few of my favorite bloggers go from blogging their inspirations and recent works/life to becoming a brand with a staff and sceduled weekly/daily posts. I can respect their decisions, but someing of their genuine-ness left with their decision to become a brand. You are one of the only ones left in my feed that i take the time to read fully!
Justina Blakeney says
I hear you Amy. I hear you loud and clear :D
Claire says
Inspirational reading for be bloggers, love your blog, have just written my latest post about you!
Sarah says
It’s my first time on your site and I found you through the Albion fit FB swimsuit post. I REALLY like this post :)
Amanda says
Love your blog! I have to reiterate what has already been said, I come here because your voice is authentic and unique. Your approach to design, mothering, travel,etc. is inspiring yet approachable. And, I for one LOVE the recipes – I think I have tried them all:) Congrats on the success of this space and your career evolution! xoxo
Malia says
Thank you for all your honesty–about yourself, your body, being a mom. It’s so great to hear somebody else’s candid thoughts on topics that are close to my heart (my son’s about the same age as your Boomba).
I was surprised by how well done your sponsored content is–it still feels authentic, not forced. So, keep up the good work!
Jesyka says
I think I’d like to share with you why I look up to you as a blogger and a designer more than anyone else–you always manage to be authentic and you keep it real. Your style and your writing is anything but the sterile, saccharine, perfectly packaged box of pretty that can be off-putting and down right annoying sometimes, nor does it ever come off as amateur (as-if!). You have ambition, but it seems so happy, and genuine–your ambition’s sole purpose is not to make money, but it is to share your gifts with the world. I feel like you are constantly calling everyone out on their unrealistic ideas about what perfection is, and reminding us that no–perfection is really _here_ in celebrating the imperfect; finding joy, and even bliss, in the imperfect. Does that make sense? I’m sure someone else could put that in another way… Anyway, no other blogger I’ve found does that quite like you. (And I discovered you years ago, when you had compai).
On a more personal note, your style reminds me of my grandmother’s, and I relate to it. To me, it feels like home. And her style has always felt so unique that to see it somewhere else is pretty astonishing to me! (Although, I certainly think you use color in a more vibrant way than she does.)
I also don’t care about sponsored posts; do as many as you need to do to keep the money coming in, and your great ideas coming out! And if I’m exposed to a cool new product in the process, awesome. I would think most readers understand.
And Ida? GIMME! I have loved seeing you become a mother! That might have something to do with me being a mother myself. But, really, I’ve always loved the idea of motherhood, so I think that I would have loved it just as much 5 years ago!
I also wanted to say that when I visit a blog, typically I look at the pictures. But not when I come here. I come here for imagery AND to read, but even on the rare occasion I’m *trying* to skim, I end up reading every damn word.
A vibe I get here: Haters gonna hate. And you aren’t writing for them. You write for the LOVERS! <3
xoxo
Sarah says
I think the most important thing I take from your blog is that it is authentically you. Nothing ever feels forced, even your sponsored content still has that “jungalicious” vibe to it and it fits your branding.
I enjoy seeing what you have going on in your own home, as well as the style inspiration you share from your travels. I love the little snippets into your personal life with Ida, and I think it’s just the right amount. Any more and I fear you would cross over into being a Mommy Blogger. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but I don’t think that’s what you are.
I would love to see more detailed parts of your house. One of favourite posts was the piece about your gallery wall and the bamboo lighting fixture. It was great to see your design ideas in practice in your home!
Em K says
I have no idea how I stumbled across your blog a few months ago, I think I was searching for something on google and it brought me here. I book-marked it and have been returning ever since.
what keeps me back is the fact your blog is very you and authentic, I think if I met you in real life you’d be very cool and laid back the way you write is appealing, I do read but often i’ll skim and look at pictures and then return when I have more time to read.
I like that you’re mixed race like myself, something that’s rare in the blogosphere,
and your taste/style keeps me coming back. I’ve discovered so many things through your blog! I’m not really crazy about giveaways, I tend to skip over those posts. I think you have the right balance here – keep doing what youre doing!
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