#BlogTrends – The Key to Branding – Jan 9

Branding is one of the most crucial parts of blogging, but one that often leaves us confused and mystified.  It’s about establishing a recognizable face to your blog, all while keeping it true to who you are.  Come join us to help debunk the mystery of branding!

Q1 What is a “brand”? Why should I take the time to brand my blog? #blogtrends

@blackblondeone: @BlogTrendsChat A brand is the essence of who you are, how you are recognized. #blogtrends

@DigitalKaitlyn: A1 A brand to my is the collective words and feelings I think of when I think of different companies and organizations#blogtrends

@SmartSavvyStyle: I think a brand is what gives you your edge, what makes you unique, and what other people remember you by.#blogtrends

@sugaRushtv: @BlogTrendsChat A1 i.m.o a brand is a representation of morals, values and beliefs manifested as a company/blog/site.#blogtrends

@DigitalKaitlyn: A1 it is important to brand your blog if not for your readers than to keep your blog focused and true to what you want it to be #blogtrends

@gritandglamour: @BlogTrendsChat A1 Branding sets you apart from everyone else. It’s your identity, so have a unique and compelling one! #blogtrends

@sugaRushtv: @BlogTrendsChat i.m.o its important to brand ones blog b/c it provides a clear vision of plan,goals,cause to keep away deviation #blogtrends

@Fashionalities: I say branding is consistency…a way for readers to differentiate you from everything else out there. #blogtrends

@prettyandfun: A1: It’s all about marketing yourself, to both potential readers and sponsors/partners. Your “brand” is what makes you unique. #blogtrends

@prettyandfun: A1: Also what helps you stand out. Let’s face it, there are TONS of blogs out there – why should someone read yours?#blogtrends

@IMPR4Less: A1-A brand is who you are and what you represent, how you want to be perceived and remembered #blogtrends

@MeghanButler: Personal brand is the new word for “You” – you are your brand & vice versa #blogtrends

Q2 How can do I create my brand? Are the any specific things I should focus on first? #BlogTrends

@MeghanButler: @BlogTrendsChat When creating a brand, i feel like you have to really ask yourself what you love now&who youd like to be#blogtrends

@DigitalKaitlyn: A2 I just wrote a post for #blogtrends about this process with some things i’ve picked up working for a branding firm -http://t.co/F4QzXR7B

@blackblondeone: @BlogTrendsChat Figure out your goals. Who do you want to be? Who are you? How do you want to be seen? #blogtrends

@spacephx: @BlogTrendsChat Although imitation is flattery, set yourself apart in style, color, intention and offerings.#BlogTrends.

@blackblondeone: Write down some words that represent what you identify w/ and what you aim for. #blogtrends

@SmartSavvyStyle: Part of creating your brand is knowing yourself. I don’t think it is sustainable to create a brand that is different than you #blogtrends

@backngroovemom: @DigitalKaitlyn A2 — I think blog brand needs to represent where u have been, who you are now and where u are going #blogtrends

@sugaRushtv: @BlogTrendsChat a2 figure out who you are & what you’re very knowledgeable about. this will help in building a brand#blogtrends

@bikespoke: @BlogTrendsChat A2 You blog is a lego, decide where to place it, build on it, by connecting to audiences different color pieces#BlogTrends

@prettyandfun: A2: Important to focus on what YOU want your blog to be, don’t get caught up in comparing yourself to others#blogtrends

@SoDreWrites: RT @BlogTrendsChat: Branding yourself helps you express your identity, stand out, and show readers what to expect#blogtrends

@MeghanButler: @NYConmymind I feel like a blog is a living, everchanging organism. My blog now is NOT what it was 4 years ago (thank GAWD!) #blogtrends

@sugaRushtv: creating a brand shouldn’t be as hard as stone cutting, if it’s a brand that’s an extension of who you are as an individual#blogtrends

@ashley4emergy: A2: Branding is a continuous process. Don’t worry if you don’t have your AHA! moment in the beginning. Stay true to yourself #blogtrends

@gritandglamour: A2 Brands are visual, verbal, and more. Brand YOU can include love of other brands (e.g. me & @Gucci), music, eras, etc.#blogtrends

@gritandglamour: Your brand is what you love, believe in, fight for, are passionate about. It’s your approach to pretty much everything, really #blogtrends

Q3 How important is my logo/color palette? What are some ways to establish these things without hiring a professional for help? #BlogTrends

@prettyandfun: A3: Don’t be afraid to ask other bloggers for tips & Google is a huge resource for design work. #blogtrends

@gritandglamour: A3 I think the look of your blog is important…if you change it all the time, people can’t make visual associations.#blogtrends

@backngroovemom: @BlogTrendsChat A3 – I designed my 1st blog on free platform until I gained an audience & then hired some1 to help design #blogtrends

@MeghanButler: Content is king, design is queen (says a writer. i’m sure designers wld see it the other way around ;}) #blogtrends

@gritandglamour: A3 If a pro designer isn’t an option, pick a great template that allows you to customize the header and colors.#blogtrends

@SmartSavvyStyle: I think color is important but less important than having a theme that is easy to read. #blogtrends

@NYConmymind: A3: I have colored my blog in away that is pleasing 2 the eye but has had highlights of color in places I want to be noticed. #blogtrends

@prettyandfun: A3: Whatever you go with, be consistent. Use the same fonts in your header, biz cards, email signature, same with usernames #blogtrends

@KatiePetix: If you go the professional route, make sure you know your brand inside out since you will have to convey it to a stranger!#blogtrends

@prettyandfun: A3: Don’t be intimidated by design projects. Doing it yourself is very satisfying & then you know how to make updates later. #blogtrends

@gabeflowers: A3 Color is so important! I recently lightened up my blog to make it easier on the eye but still kept elements of my fav colors. #blogtrends

@KatiePetix: A3 I think it boils down to personal aestetic. Go with what you like! Especially since as a blogger you are your brand!#blogtrends

@Glam__Slam: Aside from templates,also trying to enhance my tech skills: html,photoshop think it’s imp.for bloggers to have savvy tech skills #blogtrends

Q4 What are some examples of blogs with a very recognizable brand? #BlogTrends

@vafashiongirl: @BlogTrendsChat Q4: @ManRepeller is the best example I can think of! Hello… Arm party?

@blackblondeone: @BlogTrendsChat Atlantic Pacific, Man Repeller, The Daybook, love Maegan, Cupcakes & Cashmere #blogtrends

@styleblacklabel: Q4 Cupcakes & Cashmere. You know its @byEmily anywhere she is featured without having to even read it. #blogtrends

@blackblondeone: @BlogTrendsChat Also Gala Darling. Anytime I see hot pink, I know it’s her! #blogtrends

@prettyandfun: A4: Miss @BlairEadieBEE is the first who comes to mind! You see that top knot & immediately know its her. Love that lady’s style #blogtrends

@MeghanButler: A4 a non-fashion example is @TheBloggess - her writing style is recognizable from a mile away! #blogtrends

@prettyandfun: A4: @LoveTaza is another one – her blog is SO authentic. Makes you really feel like you know her & that adorable family of hers #blogtrends

@Glam__Slam: A4: @PrttyShnySprkly @ManRepeller are two of the most recognizable “brands” to me that I admire. #blogtrends

@ashley4emergy: A4 One of my faves is 5 Inch And Up. I see great shoes and I almost always know it’s her. #blogtrends

@backngroovemom: @gritandglamour A4 big time blog: @toryburch also love: @quintessenceblg #blogtrends

@DigitalKaitlyn: @vafashiongirl @dkny is one of my favorite brands, part because I love the close but mostly because I really enjoy Aliza#blogtrends

@MeghanButler: GUYS! We’re forgetting a HUGE one - @OscarPRgirl! #blogtrends

Q5 How will branding my blog help me in the future? Will it help me with monetizing and reaching out to other brands?#BlogTrends

@blackblondeone: @BlogTrendsChat It will help companies realize who you are and what you represent and if it aligns w/ their mission.#blogtrends

@DigitalKaitlyn: A5 Branding your blog helps def. helps with the future because it helps you narrow down a focus for the long run#blogtrends

@backngroovemom: @BlogTrendsChat A5: yes, a brand situates u to connect with future readers& sponsors – the remember u & visualize u#blogtrends

@sugaRushtv: @BlogTrendsChat a5 branding helps define clear goals & money in the future (near or far) is a goal everyone wants to accomplish. #blogtrends

@vafashiongirl: @BlogTrendsChat Q5 branding equals consistency which is they key to gaining readers, partnerships, etc… #blogtrends

@lindseywolff: #blogtrends A5: Your brand speaks to your niche in the blogosphere & aligns your blog w/ similar brands & lifestyles for ad opportunities

@DIVASANDDORKS: @BlogTrendsChat proper branding takes consistency/time but it also shows other brands that you are a business 2 b reckoned with. #blogtrends