Hey guys,
This is a rare kind of post that’s more like the proverbial “newsletter.”
I never call anything I write a newsletter, because who the hell cares about my news?
Okay, once in a while. But like I always say. Blogging is 10% about me and 90% is about you. And if it goes over the 10%, it’s something about me that I think can help you, if that makes sense.
But, yes. Happy Six Year Blogiversary to the Laurel Home Blog!
Actually, it was last week, but I’ve been just a little preoccupied. (understatement)
With my new blogging guide which is coming out on Wednesday April 25th!
I haven’t said a lot about it and some of you may not have seen when I did mention it.
But before some of you freak out and think that I’m going to go all rogue on you. Please know that I am definitely not going to do that.
Why am I doing it?
- The first reason is that a lot of people have been asking me to. :]
- Two. It wasn’t that long ago that I was floundering around in the dark. And if I knew then what I know now, would be far better off. In the early months, I had no idea what I was doing with this website/blog and you know what happened?
NOTHING. That’s right, I went for 19 months and NOBODY was reading it! I used to make jokes about that.
For funsies, you can look at my first blog post here. I didn’t even know how to make a link! There are links now, because one thing I do is go back and make some of the old posts better.
Well, after I made some behind-the-scenes changes, it kind of blows my mind, but some 3.3 million people are visiting Laurel Home every year!
Not bad for a former computerphobe.
Oh? You didn’t know that about me? Yes, indeed. My ex-husband (wasband) used to call me a Luddite. But actually, after I calmed my technology challenged mind and in the years before I moved, I did learn a lot from him about computers.
But back in 2011 about six months before Laurel Home was born, I found an interior design website with a gorgeous blog. I used to look at it nearly every day and drool over her lovely images.
I want to be like that…
One day after working up the nerve, I sent her an email. I told her about wanting to start a new website/blog but didn’t know where to begin. But her gorgeous website inspired me. And I’d be grateful if she could point me in the right direction.
This is what she wrote back:
“Well, I could charge you my hourly rate, but I really don’t have time and why should I teach you what you already know how to do.”
No, bitch. I DON’T ALREADY KNOW HOW TO DO IT, or I wouldn’t have contacted you!
Nooooo, I didn’t write that, of course; never contacted her again. I’m sure that I went whimpering away with my tail between my legs.
But, here’s the clincher. And it’s really good, in a bad way.
In June 2013, realizing that something HAD to change, My wonderful webgeek-guardian-angel Eileen Lonergan materialized out of nowhere. I still work with Eileen, but she’s also become a dear friend. And I can’t recommend her highly enough to anyone who needs help with their WordPress website.
Well, one day in 2014 after Eileen helped me dig myself out of the deep cyber hell-hole I had put myself in, she noticed that I had posted an image from that very same designer on my blog. Yes, I know. Why would I post a pic after she made that incredibly rude comment to me? Well, I did. (and no. I’m not linking to the post!) :]
Eileen said, “Do you know her, because she was a client of mine about four years ago.”
It was one of those moments like when you suddenly remember that there’s left-over cherry cheesecake in the fridge, but you forgot to eat it and now it’s moldy.
All that nasty woman had to say was– “Call Eileen Lonergan. She’ll be able to help you.”
But that’s the power of the Universe. I found her anyway. I love stuff like that.
Another reason for the blogging guide is that people have been curious.
How did you do it, Laurel? What’s your secret?
Oh wait. I said that, but didn’t expand upon it.
Well, that’s what this blogging guide is about. AND in easy-to-understand non-geek terms. Any technical words that you need to know are explained in plain, normal English.
I’m going to tell you everything that has worked for me and some of it goes against the popular conventional thinking.
And I’m going to tell anyone who buys the guide, how I make money and how much I’m making.
Why am I giving out this information? I want people to know that this is real. It’s possible to make a nice living blogging. And I hope that it’ll give some of you who are interested, encouragement to stick with it. If I can do this; anyone can!
Who’s the Guide for?
It’s for anyone with a website.
However, the caveat is that it needs to be a website with a blog.
A blog is the gateway to striking it big on the internet with relatively little capital. But, it’s not going to happen unless people can find the blog.
And so, there’s also going to be a companion SEO Guide Search Engine Optimization – or in plain English, doing what it takes to get your business on page one in local google searches, for local business and if so desired national and international business searches.
But just know that having a blog doesn’t mean spending insane amounts of time every week like I do. In fact, one of the most important points is that it’s quality over quantity when it comes to blogging.
It is far better to write one killer blog post a week, than three or four throw-aways; that being thin, uninteresting content. In fact, the throw-aways will just get caught up with the rest of the noise out there. You need to stand out and it needs to be with all of the sails up and flying!
When I started this blog six years ago, I wasn’t even remotely thinking about being a full-time blogger. I didn’t know that such a thing existed. And I certainly didn’t understand how anyone could make enough money to live on.
What’s the name of the blogging guide, Laurel?
Oh, yes. Thanks for asking. :]
Here’s the cover.
Another area that I’ve improved greatly in, is putting my face on art images! lol And no, sorry, that one isn’t covered in the guide– only what I use which is Picmonkey.
The main idea of the blogging guide is that your blog on your self-hosted website, can help you earn a nice living. And that doesn’t necessarily mean from the blog itself. The strategies outlined are designed to bring in more local business. Or if you like, long-distance consultations or a physical or virtual shop.
But yes, there are numerous ways to make money directly from the blog too. And that one has been the steepest learning curve for me.
And please know something important. I don’t do everything right. It’s not an exact science, but there are some important things that one needs to do that will make all of the difference.
A little heads-up. I’m spending some time with my son in Boston for an ultra-long weekend. So, no hot sales this week. The hot sales widgets should be up-to-date, however.
There will be a post on Sunday and a reader needs your help! But wait until you see this gorgeous house! Can’t wait to see what y’all come up with.
Next week, no post on Tuesday, but there will be a post that accompanies the new guide on Wednesday. And then things should return pretty much back to normal after that.
Please have a beautiful week!
xo,
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83 Responses
Happy Anniversary, Laurel!!!
Thanks so much Lorri!
Yea,
Once again your generosity shines through. Can’t wait to purchase the guide. I have unsubscribed to many decorating blogs, but yours is one of the few I kept.
Have a fun meet up with your son.
Karen
PS Lokking forward to your bedroom reveal
.
I have been wanting to have a blog for about a year now. When I happened upon your blog about two months ago, I thought to myself, “I wish I could have a blog like Laurel’s.” I am so anxious to read your guide. Thanks, Laurel for sharing!
I’m very excited about it too! I remember feeling exactly the same as you and not having any idea what to do, except that I did know that wordpress.org was the way to go.
So, I just dived in and subsequently made a ton of mistakes that I had not one clue about. For 19 months, nothing changed until those mistakes were corrected.
And even then, it was a slow go as there was still much to learn.
Congratulations, Laurel and Happy Anniversary! Have a great time in Boston! So very glad for you!
Thanks so much Libby and for all of your support!
3 million! Wow I did not know you had that many followers. That’s awesome and congratulations. I still can’t believe you wrote a blog post about one of my questions. Its like a celebrity tweeting you. Your my celebrity.
Hi Amy,
Well, there aren’t that many subscribers. Maybe 50,000 have subscribed, but I keep having to delete those that haven’t opened ANYTHING up in over six months.
But in any case, the numbers blow my mind too!
Hi Laurel,
Thanks soon much for this post, and big congratulations on your blogiversary!! Looking forward to the guide, because I really need it! Please take a peek at my blog (address above) and you’ll see what I mean. Since it is about my own artwork, I don’t stick to the 10/90 proportion very well. Recent posts have been about prep for a 2 woman show in July so I’ve been posting only as I finish new work. NO comments, although I get FB comments, and some email, about the work. I need to figure out how to reach a wider audience.
Anyway, I enjoy your posts, I’m also a “Ben-ite”–LOVE his Inspiration blog– and Gaye’s Little Augury too! you guys rock!!
Best wishes,
Diane Keane
Thanks so much Diane!
Well Laurel, I am hoping to sign myself up for the idiot of the week award…..you see I cannot find where to get this guide! yes, really dumb dumb. help please!
debra
Hi Debra,
You’re not dumb at all. The guide is only coming out in six days. On the 25th.
Happy Anniversary Laurel!! I can’t wait for the guide. Cheers for all that you share and do. xoxo
Thanks so much Claire. Looking forward to seeing you next week!
Congratulations 🎉 Laurel:
You are an inspiration. Your blog is entertaining and educational for design and non-design lovers alike. A few weeks ago I actually started reading some of your older posts and am enjoying them immensely.
Hope to see you someday during a future visit to Boston!
Ani
Thanks so much Ani! Glad that you’re enjoying the blog!
Congratulations Laurel on your anniversary! I’m very happy to hear that you are making a good living through your always interesting and fun blog. You deserve it.
Thanks so much March!
Hi Laurel!
You are one in a million! Cheers to your honesty and the fabulous “Love Stories” you share with us weekly. I adore you Laurel. Happy Anniversary!
Have fun in Boston!
Maura
Oh Maura,
You know the feeling is completely mutual. I feel like Salieri to you as Mozart. I’m quite behind on my instagram. Sometimes I get a little rebellious with the stuff that for me feels extraneous. But, I adore looking at your feed. It always astounds me because the beauty comes naturally to you. Or at least that’s how it appears. And that’s an amazing gift! xoxo
Continued… I’m just so happy you are making money at this.
Hi again. That one is the most amazing miracle of all! Maybe you also remember when I used to say something like. “They’re not paying me to say that, or no affiliation… I’m not that smart.”
I liken it to getting an advanced college degree. Nobody goes to medical school for a month and then goes and operates on somebody’s brain.
There’s a lot to learn, but most of it is quite enjoyable. xo
I must be one of your earlier readers. I remember when you would say that no one was reading or commenting and when you had the little shopping section and when you said I’m redoing the whole thing. I knew your readership had increased but I didn’t realize it was that high.
Hi MH,
If someone had told me five years ago or even four years ago where I’d be right now, I’d say impossible! But it just goes to show that miracles do happen!
You are so like Ben P! You’re discreet where it matters, but entertainingly generous with your knowledge when you can be.
It has been my observation that the good ‘uns – whether it be designers, cooks, web-geek-guardian-angels or other creative types – who are knowledgeable and passionate and secure in their expertise are most comfortable sharing and letting their strong personalities shine through, and that’s what makes y’all the most enjoyable and informative to read.
I am so glad I found you Laurel! I keep coming back for more … you’re worse than a good box of chocolates. 😉
Oh, so sweet you are Fenella and to be mentioned in the same sentence as BEN! wow! too much. Thank you!
I love you, Laurel. Your way of telling things without sugar-coating them.
You are honest and even when it is pretty obvious you are “kinda” busy (another understatement) you always make time to answer our emails.
I love you because I have found out myself in my 6 years in the USA that everybody loves posting about honesty on social media. Oh blah blah how much do they appreciate honesty and stuff like that.
Until… you are honest with them LOL
That is the moment when honesty is not what they thought it was and you have to choose between being “less honest” or start having less friends.
I chose the second.
And I know there are people out there who love to point their fingers at you just because you call things by their names.
You are just one in a million. Thank you.
Oh, thank you so much Carmen! It’s a fine line between being honest and knowing when to keep ones mouth shut.
I’ve just gotten to the point where I almost always delete those comments. It’s like they forget that there are actually real, living people at the other end of their words. And it’s not “anything goes.” xo
Happy Anniversary!
I am so glad I discovered your blog! I have just moved into a new home that was custom built and I had SO many design decisions to make. Your blog helped me in so many ways–like painting my entire home, walls and trim, in BM White Dove (well, except for one room–I had to be a little rebellious. It’s my nature!). And I love it!
I have been entertaining the idea of starting a blog and am so excited about your guide. Can’t wait to make that purchase!
Thanks so much!
Oh, that sounds lovely Patty. And it’s good to paint one room a different color. I’ve done that exact thing for clients many times.
Hello Laurel, Congratulations on six years of blogging, and so many great posts. I only wish I had discovered you sooner–look what I was missing!
–Jim
Oh man, you mean you missed the post with the dirt that came out of my vacuum cleaner? Dang! And you won’t find it because that is a post that I took down before I learned that you’re not supposed to do that! I wish I had left up those bad posts. There are still a few, though. They’re pretty funny. But mostly, thank you for all of the kind support and wonderful comments you’ve left for what seems like years. I think it has been! Wait. I can find that out. Hang on,
Actually, no. I am wrong. Your first comment was only in January 2017. But, you’ve commented 45 times which is awesome. I so appreciate your wisdom and wise contribution on many topics! xoxo
You’re right, Laurel, it does seem like much more than a year. Perhaps because I keep dipping into the archives and back-links! –Jim
:]
Congrats on six years of blogging. I’m just getting started. I religiously follow three decorator/designers, and you’re one of them. The other two you know quite well, as you’ve joined them on their posts. I know it’s hard work, for sure, and I can’t wait for your guide!!
XOXO
Thanks so much Gina and all the best with your blogging endeavor. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life! xoxo
Ooooh…this is exciting!
I think it would be very cool to learn better ways to share how little I know with people who come visit me anyway.
A plainspeak discussion of the SEO stuff would be SO appreciated…my eyes usually start to glaze over by the third sentence.
But aside from all the things that can help from a marketing and tech end, the reason–IMHO–YOU are SO successful also has to do with the fact you are an actual expert on your topic, you convey your knowledge in a very straightforward and engaging way, and you are hilarious.
In my case, I’m not sure there’s an audience for “how to procrastinate like a boss,” but I’m willing to learn how to find one.
Hi Em,
You’re an excellent writer. But make no mistake. I can procrastinate with the best of ’em. I will tell you one thing that’s in the guide. My secret that works like a charm.
ACCOUNTABILITY.
Like, the guide is coming out in ONE week. HOLY CRAP! If I just sat here and said, yeah… I’m working on a guide with no end date, it would never get done. Just like the new theme for my website is not getting done. lol
I am a recent follower and ask myself “where the heck has Laurel been hiding?” Love your ideas, even though I’m a real vanilla decorator. You are helping me break out of my shell 💋
Hi Patricia,
Oh, that is so kind! And welcome to what I like to think of as of a community of family and friends. My decorating has also evolved over the years. xo
Congratulations on your Anniversary, Laurel!!!! You have such a generous,giving,kind nature!!! I was first attracted to your blog after seeing a pin on Pinterest of your fabulously catchy paint freak out opener. I thought to myself, wow I’ve got to check this out now!!! You have such a talent for writing great content. Your sense of humor and seemingly easy style are rare in the blogging world. Does this come naturally to you, or do you struggle with that daunting “blank white page” Your photos are always stunning as well. I’m so excited to learn all your little “secrets “. Wishing you a wonderful visit with your son!! 😊
Hi Lisa,
Thank you so much!
Admittedly, the writing part does come pretty easily to me. But, I also had to cultivate a style and technique which I outline in the guide.
I talk a fair amount about writing and things that people can do to improve it and allow their inner voice to come shining through in a unique, engaging way.
Beautiful imagery is essential. In fact, it often trumps all, but the words are important too.
I am so proud of you Laurel! I remember the summer day you called me and shared that on a good day you had 30 visitors to your site! I appreciate you crediting me as part of your success, but really it is YOU who is amazing. Smart, tenacious, curious and of course talented. Never afraid to ask / learn or call it as you see it. Like everyone else I can’t wait for the guide. Enjoy your son, he is a treasure.
Hi Eileen!
This is Eileen everyone! And she is being overly modest, but without her, I’d have thrown in the towel a long time ago and be one of the throngs who say “blogging is dead.” “It doesn’t work.” And that’s true. It doesn’t work if you don’t know how to work it! And Eileen is a brilliant, patient, extremely knowledgable teacher!
Laurel, thank you so much! Please next Wednesday come soon! I have been gleening bits and pieces from your blog for sometime (not just the decor stuff, which has helped me immensely). But, little tid-bits of how you modified this and changed that, getting additional help from Eileen and going to boot camp in Vegas (I think you went). Anyway each time I would show my husband what you were doing, you and that other pretty blonde gal and how you were drawing in a hugh audience and making some cash. My husband works in an industrial field and has a wealth of knowledge and information and is a great writer, I believe something like this would be the perfect outlet for his field. Not that there aren’t others doing it, but his would be better! Haha! Donny Deutsch once said that the internet has made it all so easy, it has done all the work, all the marketing and research, all you need to do is plug it in. If you build it (good) they will come. Thanks again, I really enjoy every little bit of information on color, form, and levity you offer to us each week. And by the way I have this funky looking paint…just kidding! Enjoy you son in Boston, we can’t get enough of them! ❤️Terri
Oh thank you Terri for this wonderful comment. The boot-camp was in Florida in the fall of 2014. Things had begun to turn around for me, but that trip changed my life.
And a couple more things. The guide is written for anyone who wants to start a blog. It is not meant to replace professional geek-help. That’s what I call the amazing folks who really know all of the super techie things.
And BTW, my site is FIXED. Tim Gary of mindcue.com. Oh man, he’s so busy, that his site only has a beautiful place-holder. But, he’s the best.
The other thing is that it matters not if others are doing the same thing. All he needs to do is do it better and that’s not all that hard to do.
My guide spells out the most important aspects which hopefully won’t be overwhelming. It’s the overwhelm that creates paralysis. That’s what happened to my site last night! haha
I live for your posts!!! Also, I’ve been meaning to ask you about the guide, now I’m so excited it’s coming, I will buy it for sure! Also, about the hot sales, I love it all but I live in Canada and cannot buy most of it, unless you know of a reliable mail forwarding company? Last time that I tried one I lost $500 worth of merchandise. Perhaps these are sources you should add to your Rolodex, and then I can buy that too!
Thanks!
Hi Emilie,
That is so kind of you to say! And actually, I have a lot of designer friends in Canada and I know that they shop at the High Point furniture market. I will ask how they get stuff over the border.
I’m so proud of you, Laurel.
Oh, thank you Gaye! That made me cry a salty, happy tear.
Laurel,
Congratulations to you, on all your talents and for your innate ability to reach out to those of us who are novices , who appreciate art and design and truly only “know it when they see it.” I am most appreciative of all your talents, and truly appreciate your generous spirit.
Much success to you !
Susan
Thanks so much Susan. Honestly, I had no idea how this was going to be received and I’m overwhelmed with the kind responses!
Congratulations!!!!!! I celebrate your success and wish you continued growth and wonderfulness.
Thank you so much Gail and also for all of your kind support!
I cant wait for your blogging guide. I know it is going to be spectacular!
Oh, thanks so much Sheri! You’re a doll!
Happy Birthday and your idea is gangbusters. I am waiting with baited breath for its release date!!!
Thanks so much Ramona!
Congratulations on your success! I have a suspicion that I am the .3 million from all my re-readings of your blog post.
I look forward to the book. Maybe I will think of something to blog about!
Hi Susan,
Thanks so much.
Actually, the 3,300,000 are unique visitors. Page view rate is at about 8,400,000 based on the first three months this year. Maybe you are the 400,000? lol
A little tip about discovering topics of interest, is to come up with an idea. Say it’s “furniture trends.” Type that into your google box and hit enter.
Then go to the main google search box where you’ll see your search term and the results. Click inside the box once and you’ll find a big drop down of related and popular searches to that topic!
I also keep a list of topics which comes in handy.
I was just thinking Laurel, if the IRS read your blogging guide they could probably figure out how to keep their site from crashing, and maybe make it easier for us to figure out how to pay our taxes to boot!
Oh gosh. Their site crashed? Well, mine did too, tonight! I didn’t think anyone would read this post, which just shows what I know.
Obviously, a mini crash. It’s calmed down now.
But I’m always on top of it. This is my baby and I watch it like a mother hen.
Happy Anniversary, Laurel!
I still remember how happy I was when I first discovered your blog through the catchy title of one blog entry: “Bunny Williams’ Husband Hates Me”. After spending a few hours reading your other entries, I knew that could never be true- I think he’d appreciate your wit, good humor, sophistication, expertise and ‘voice’.
I sure do! 🙂
Hi Dolores,
Thanks so much! That post was definitely one of my turning points. And it’s something that I talk about in the guide. Headlines are super important.
I mean, who can resist. “20 movie stars from the 80s. You won’t believe what they look like now.”
haha!
Happy 6 Year Anniversary!!
I so enjoy reading your blog and your humorous little asides!!! Make it fresh!!
Hoping that you have a safe trip up to Boston to enjoy some time with your son!
I’m a Massachusetts girl living in the western Philadelphia area. Still need my dose of New England each summer!! The Berkshire area in the Western part of the state!
Hi Mary Anne,
Thank you so much!
Actually, my son is planning on moving to western Mass, I believe this summer.
I have a feeling it is going to fabuloso! Thank you for all the good stuff you send…..I so love and enjoy it!
Susan
I have worked hard at not making it a dry, boring do this, then do this, then do this…zzzzzzzzzzz I promise that there will be chuckles and more!
Laurel,
Who knew an interior designer could be so entertaining. I wish you lived next door!!!!!!
Oh, that’s so sweet, Barbara. I wish that you lived next door too! My site is having massive hot flashes tonight. It’s like menopause on steroids!
Looking forward to the Guide!
Thanks so much Sara! You guys spur me on!
Love the cover and title! And it’s a great idea, too. May you have many more gold coins and the fortunes of life roll in. 🙂
Thanks so much Carol. Really appreciate the support!
yay!! can’t wait to get this Laurel!! and I LOVE the cover!!! 🙂
you tickle me to pieces!!!
xo
Elizabeth
Thanks so much. That’s so sweet Elizabeth. I’m just bummed because of my tech issues tonight. We’ll get it sorted out.
Do you have any idea how many times I’ve thought about asking you to do this?
THANK YOU!!!!!
Oh, you’re welcome Bianca!
Right now, the site is bogged down which hasn’t happened in a while. Meaning, because I just posted, the server can’t handle all of the traffic even though I have, a super-heavy-duty (translation expensive) server, plus cloudflare, so this should not be happening.
My head geek was doing some work trying to figure out why the mobile theme keeps cutting out. So, for anyone who it took a while to get on and you see this comment, that’s why.
Apologies for my slooooooooooooooow site. We’ll get it back to its zippy self very soon.
Happy Blog Anniversary! So very happy for you Laurel, can’t wait to see The Guide! Enjoy your visit with your son (you are in my neck of the woods!) and as always I’ll look forward to the Sunday Post.
Fondly,
Pat Haley
May Interiors
11 Plymouth Road
Winchester, MA 01890
Much appreciated Pat!
This is awesome! I’m sure many people will benefit from your decision to share your knowledge. If I ever do a website with a blog, I’ll be buying this from you!
Thanks so much Ann!