my new year’s resolution to finally start my blog in January 2017 and that’s exactly what I did.
What are some of the obstacles you’ve faced and how did you manage to overcome it?
I’ve been invited to a few restaurants for complimentary meals; obviously with the expectation that I’ll love their food and write something great about them. Unfortunately this is not always the case. I find it best to be honest with owners, managers or PR agents upfront and inform them that your blog post will always be honest and a true representation of your experience. If something wasn’t great, I don’t believe in advocating that it was purely due to the fact that your meal was sponsored. Fortunately most restaurant managers are very understanding of this fact and generally appreciate the honesty.
What formed part of your highlights thus far?
I’ve been fortunate enough to be invited to quite a few restaurants to try out their menus as well as some media launches of newly opened places. It’s always exciting to realize there’s something new opening up or even something great that’s been around for ages that you’d never tried. I’ve been fortunate enough to be invited to quite a number of Zomato functions as well. One of my highlights, in particular, has been the Gordon’s Gin, Gordon’s Legends Cocktail Party which was held at Shepstone Gardens in May. Another highlight has been able to meet so many other bloggers (some food, some lifestyle and some travel) at these kinds of functions. It’s always great to see how many other established bloggers are so encouraging of new up and coming bloggers like myself.
Where do you see your blog 5 years from now?
Hopefully in 5 years’ time my blog will have grown substantially. I’d like to maintain the focus on food and restaurants. However by then, I hope to have also expanded the blog internationally with a slight shift towards travel, focusing on food and restaurants worldwide. Hopefully I can pick up a few travel sponsorships along the way .
Any advice for aspiring bloggers specifically food bloggers
Yes, I think if you feel it’s something you’d like to venture into and you enjoy writing (and of course food) then go for it! The hardest part is just actually starting. Once you’ve got your idea and have a sense of the kind of blog you want to write, start! You can always edit and touch up something to improve it, but you can’t edit a blank page! Once you begin, things will fall into place. Another tip would be to create your social media pages and profiles, especially for any kind of blog where you want to showcase photographs. In this day and age, social media is vital to a successful blog.
www.getinmybelly.co.za
FB: @getinmybellyfoodblog
Twitter: @_GetInMyBelly_
IG: @getinmybelly.co.za
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