Over the last few years, things have changed a lot. Bloggers have become influencers, and these influencers have saturated online marketing. I’ve seen it all morph and change and it continues to every day. I’m constantly thinking about what I’m in it for. Why I still wake up and brainstorm ideas with my team, create content in the studio, and sit on the computer editing and writing for hours upon hours into the evening. Why am I still in this space, and where do want to be? There have been so many amazing opportunities and brand partnerships over the last 12 years, and I’ve grown so much as a publisher, photographer and content creator, but where do I want to be in the next 12 years? I think about it every day, and to be honest I’m still figuring this out.
One of the amazing things about living in the bay area for 10 years now is that it’s a hub of innovation and startups. I’ve had the opportunity to rub shoulders with so many people. Not just like minded content creators, but also wonderful brands and media companies in face to face events and meetings. But, to be honest, most of my interactions with brands are still online. That’s how they find me and my work, that’s how we connect. One of the best ways I’ve been able to do this is through LinkedIn. It’s an unbelievably valuable way to meet and connect with people in my same industry, similar industries, and potential brand partners. One of the most inspiring things has been meeting other female business owners and creatives. This industry was the wild west 12 years ago. Uncharted territory, with no real direction, best practices, or clear state of being. Aaaand, guess waht? It still feels exactly the same. Innovation and technology is at the core of online publishing. It will always be emerging, challenging, and a fascinating space to create.
Congratulations to you Liz! You have been riding an amazing wave this past 12 years. You have grown so much. I am proud to have gotten to work with you for a few of those years. Keep doing what you are doing! xoxoxoxo S
Excited for you and the evolution of Say Yes!
What a great article, Liz. Such an interesting story about the evolution of this industry. I’m so glad you stuck with it and am happy to hear your passion for your wonderful ‘online magazine’ has been reignited. Your work is beautiful, informative and inspiring.
Congratulations on 12 years! Looking forward to all that the future holds! 🙂
Thanks Ramona!
12 years seems like such a long time, because it is! I’ve been in the game for seven years, and even in that time I’ve experienced many of the twists and turns that you’ve mentioned here. I think what still lights my fire to keep going are the mental milestones that I want to reach still. Dream blog collaborations, improved photography, better writing skills, there’s still so much more that I feel like I can give, and want to give to the industry. And even though I go through periods of stress, or burnout, it always pulls me back in. It’s such a blessing to have a job that you can create out of literally nothing, and turn it into a full time gig, that motivation lights my fire everyday.
Paige
http://thehappyflammily.com
It’s true, it does feel amazing to be where I’m at!
12 years is such a long time, it’s so amazing how you’ve kept up with blogging for so long! I’m glad you found your new motivation! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com