The Business of Blogging

The 2nd Blog Podium conference for design bloggers took place this Saturday at The Arcadian Loft in Toronto.  The panel and guest speakers discussed 'the business of blogging' and how to monetize your blog.  The key note speaker Nicole Balch of Making It Lovely shared her successes with blog monetization, and though her detailed 'how-to' was valuable - I found her girl-next-door-charm even more so.  She was honest about her strengths and weaknesses with managing the nitty-gritty business behind her blog, which is why blogging is such an attractive, accessible business:  you can afford to be who you are and successfully monetize your blog.  Love that!

Image via Blog Podium, Flickr

Afterwards we enjoyed a cocktail reception with the yummiest food and mingled with fellow bloggers and brand representatives including West Elm, Para Paints, Indigo, EQ3 and HomeSense.  A big THANK YOU to West Elm for the $20 merchandise card and additional 15% discount - I checked out Toronto's first West Elm in Liberty Village today and was treated to a pair of pinestripe tassel hand towels and mercury candleholders that I had been coveting for my bathroom. Score!

Lastly, thank you to Blog Podium founders Jennifer Flores and Lindsay Stephenson for organizing this event.  What a treat.  Here's to the next!

J xx

Faux Taxidermy

I'm in love with dogs, but I'm not ready for the responsibility of having my own.  So when I found this porcelain pup at HomeSense for just $9 - I thought it would make a playful statement on my wall and a sweet reminder of 'one day'.  I'm loving these other examples of faux taxidermy; they can brighten up a dull corner or create a strong focal point in a room.  

J xx

Etsy

Labelloot

Byrdie

Pinterest

Here Comes the Sun

I spent the long weekend with family lazing around in the new summer sun. I often found myself singing 'Here Comes the Sun' by The Beatles. Pure outdoor relaxation, dog walks by the ravine and of course, a few Instagrams.  "Here comes the sun, and I say, it's all right..." 

J xx

Help me WIN!

[ 05. 17. 2012 - Contest now closed ]

Hi Friends! I've entered the EQ3 mood board contest and I'm hoping you can help me out by going to the contest Pinterest page by clicking here and commenting on my mood board.  The entry with the most comments wins the highest priced EQ3 item featured in their mood board.  In my case, I'm coveting the sleek Reverie Chair!  Thanks everyone, here goes nothing!

J xx

Colour Love Story: Blue & Khaki

Coco + Kelley

Classic colour combo on a larger scale.

J xx

Lulu Abroad

Pinterest