Introduction: The Journey Begins
On November 2, 2020, I experienced an exhilarating moment as I transformed my blog’s status from “Private” to “Public.” The thrill of sharing my thoughts and creations with the world was unlike anything I had felt before. As an imaginative and artistic black woman, I was eager to see how my little corner of the Internet would be received. Now, a year later, I look back with gratitude and excitement for the journey I’ve undertaken. I’ve learned valuable lessons and am thrilled to share my blogging tips and reflections from my first year as a craft and DIY blogger.
The Essence of DeAnn Creates
DeAnn Creates was born out of my desire to express the creative ideas swirling in my mind. I have a passion for crafting beautiful moments and celebrations, and I know many of you share that same enthusiasm. This blog is an inclusive space for creatives of all backgrounds and genders. As a black woman, I am particularly motivated to highlight the talents of women, black individuals, and people of color in the entrepreneurial and creative realms.
Year One: Milestones Achieved
From November 2, 2020, to November 1, 2021, my blog attracted over 2,800 unique visitors—a promising start! During this period, I published more than 25 posts, and I am determined to double that number in the upcoming year. My monthly readership has surpassed 1,100, indicating steady growth. One of my standout achievements is my post titled "How To Turn Your Procreate Drawings into Cricut SVG Files," which garnered 650 views within just a few months of being published.
Essential Blogging Tips for Newbies
Mastering SEO
Understanding Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is crucial for any blogger. A solid grasp of SEO can make the difference between your posts being seen or lost in the vastness of the Internet. I’ve dedicated considerable time to researching SEO and finding a balance between crafting SEO-friendly content and pursuing my passion projects. It’s important to create content that excites you to maintain motivation.
Harnessing Pinterest for Visibility
Pinterest has been an invaluable resource for driving traffic to my blog. It allows me to showcase my work and connect with a broader audience while I build my Domain Authority on Google. I’m actively working to enhance my photography skills to create more eye-catching pins. If you’re on Pinterest, I’d love for you to follow me and share your thoughts!
Building a Supportive Community
Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals is vital when embarking on a blogging journey. Taking the leap to start my blog was daunting, but my husband’s unwavering support has kept me motivated. I also appreciate my mother’s enthusiasm, as she is always among the first to engage with my content. It’s crucial to shield yourself from negative energy, especially when pursuing a non-traditional path.
Planning Your Content
With multiple platforms to manage, planning ahead is essential. Scheduling content in advance can help keep you organized and ensure you stay on track. As someone who thrives on inspiration, I aim to capitalize on those bursts of creativity by working ahead to avoid stress during dry spells.
Embracing the Importance of Documentation
Taking photos is key to keeping your content fresh and relevant. If you stumble upon a picturesque moment that aligns with your blog’s aesthetic, snap a photo—even if you don’t have an immediate use for it. This practice ensures you have a stash of unique images to draw from later.
Future Aspirations: The Road Ahead
Looking forward, my primary goal is to generate more engaging content and enhance my writing consistency. I aim to expand my mailing list, so if you haven’t subscribed yet, please do! My target is to increase my monthly views from 1,100 to 10,000 in the coming year. Additionally, I’m keen on growing my social media presence on platforms like Pinterest, Twitter, and YouTube. I recently created an Instagram account, and I’m excited to develop that space too.
Conclusion: A Year of Growth
This past year has been transformative, and I would gladly embark on this journey again. The lessons I’ve learned and the sense of freedom that comes with working for myself are irreplaceable. I am genuinely grateful to you for being part of my blogging adventure. I hope the insights and tips I’ve shared will inspire you on your own creative endeavors. Let’s continue to explore the possibilities together!
Christmas Designs for Cricut
3D Flower Cutting Designs
Christmas Monogram SVG for Cricut
Monogram Designs for Dancers
Fish-themed DIY projects
