Welcome to the ‘Blogosphere.’
The beauty of having a creative mind means that I am constantly daydreaming, sketching and thinking of new ideas (98.8% daydreaming about food). Recently I have been thinking about life living in the ‘Blogosphere.’ No matter which city or countryside that you choose to visit, there will be an abundance of beauty, fashion, foodie and travel bloggers. However, each Blogger has a unique story to share. If you wish to find out more about my recent blogging and PR adventures, then you have come to the right place. I have also included my all-time favourite ‘blogger girls.’
In November (3 months ago, I know I’m a bit late) I was encouraged to attend the ‘NI Blogger Brunch’ in Babel, Belfast. I could write a single blog post about Babel itself as the interiors are just so dreamy. Marble coffee tables, bubble gum pink and forest green walls with a splash of 1950’s & 60s design- let’s not forget the foliage, did I mention the cacti? Babel really was the perfect setting for this event and I instantly fell in love with this gem of a rooftop bar (even before glancing at the cocktail menu).
Ok so, I may have just got majorly distracted by all things interiors, however it played a huge role in the success of the event. As Student Ambassador for CIPR NI, attending the brunch enabled me to network with bloggers, online influencers and PR professionals. It was surreal meeting bloggers that I follow on Instagram. In fact, I felt as if I knew everything about them before we engaged in conversation. A little bit creepy, right? This is the beauty of the ‘blogosphere.’ Over the last decade blogs have evolved from glorified online journals to much more personified accounts. It is something that we should encourage, we often perfect our CV’s ‘on paper’ (Amber Davies eat your heart out) and forget about building our online portfolios. Showcase your writing skills, upload that cute picture of your Doggo and share your passion with others. You never know what positive leads will evolve from a well written blog post. On a side note, can you guess why I chose to include this Instagram account? Basic.
Aware NI- It’s ok not to be ok.
The fabulous Sinead Doyle from MCE Public Relations and previous Chair of CIPR NI opened the Brunch, providing insight to supporting charity ‘Aware NI.’ This amazing charity aims to support those with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders. Many of the great workings include their support programmes which help to educate communities, schools, universities and the workplace. It is all too easy to feel disengaged from our social circles, feeling isolated online. I believe that Instagram has advantageous frills however like all social media platforms it harbours bullying and negativity. As someone who cares way too much of what the world thinks of her I have quickly recognised that I am not alone. I used to care about those likes and comments to a point where I would question what I uploaded. Now, I ask myself if I feel happy with the content that I am posting. The bottom line, do not post for others as they cannot determine your happiness. Only you can. Learning to be mindful and to relax has helped me immensely with my anxiety. Take a step back and observe others, you might just gain much-needed inspiration!
An appetite for the ‘Digital Diet.’
Whilst I am trying not to type forever, I am a self-confessed Instagram addict and have no shame. It is nice to know that your friends may worry about you if you haven’t posted in a while! To some it may feel like I use Instagram every hour of my life, well you are not far wrong. When I visit a small or local business, I feel an urge to share and promote their story online, especially if I feel connected to their brand/story. Sharing my experiences with others is something I value, we should inspire others through creative content. I pledged that I would spend less time on my phone this year (good joke Kathryn). It has been a challenge to say the least, especially when you are immersed and study in the world of PR/Digital communication.
It is also important to note that not everyone will be your biggest cheerleader along the way, so keep it real. If you are honest what is there to fault? You cannot be someone who you are not, people are not so slow in this digital age. One valuable piece of advice that I gained from the Blogger Brunch was to post what you want, when you want, do not be put off by negative judgement. So, what if your post does not reach 150 likes or you have not hit the 1k follower mark? If you post a photograph that you feel good about then let that be your success. If posting boosts your confidence, then do it. The basic algorithm behind a successful Instagram is authenticity, interesting content and engagement.
Taking inspiration from this funky lady. A groovy gran with style that would put your own wardrobe to shame! ‘Baddiewinkle’ rose to fame after her granddaughter created an Instagram account for her. What can we conclude from this? Age has no limit. Do you really think ‘Baddie’ cares about the negative comments? Absolutely not. She’s living her best badass life with no shame!
Finally, for a nosey…
To round off this post I have picked out four special ladies that I feel I can relate to the most. Each of their Instagram accounts are a true representation of just how lovely they are. First up we have Niamh Serena. I am proud to call Niamh a friend and what she has achieved so far is amazing, recently collaborating with ‘Pretty Little Thing.’ For fabulous fashion and outfit inspiration take a peek at ‘Niamhserena.’ For all things lifestyle, blooms, family life and fashion follow Anna (‘blossomingbirds’). This girl has the most amazing interiors and collection of Emma Bridgewater mugs (an obsession of mine) I just love how humble Anna is. She fosters an incredible work ethic combined with family life but is never afraid to voice the blips along the way. Last but certainly not least twins Lucy and Zoe (‘allthingsbeautifullymade’ & ‘alittlebitoflife’). These ladies are incredible. Once you visit their blogs you will understand how brave, courageous and beautiful they are. With every story that they post I feel inspired and empowered.
If you would like to check out some of latest illustrations, fashion posts and travel adventures then hit me up at ‘the_fashion_fairypr.’
Warning: may contain the occasional photograph of the Eiffel Tour.
Love,
K x
Kathryn Bigger is a third year student on the BSc in Communication Management & Public Relations at Ulster University. She is currently undertaking her placement year at Marks Design Collective. Kathryn can be contacted on: Instagram – the_fashion_fairypr / Twitter – @KatieB_05 / LinkedIn- Kathryn Bigger.