Hello everyone and happy Friday! It’s always a good day when it’s Friday, right?! Anyways, I’m Samantha and I blog over at The Samantha Show. I’ve been blogging for over 3 years and started when my husband first deployed to Afghanistan. It’s since evolved into my own little corner on the interwebz where I blog about fashion, style, parenting, and more. I love coffee, glitter, and shopping…who’s with me?!

I’m so excited to be here on Amanda’s blog today. I “met” Amanda through a group on Facebook and just think she’s an absolute doll. She’s guest posting over on my blog today too so be sure to head there and see what she’s sharing!

Since I’ve been blogging for over three years, I’ve learned a lot about how to manage my time as a blogger. And a lot of it has to do with being organized and having the right materials to do it. So today, I’m going to share 10 things every blogger needs.

A computer. Okay I know, Captain Obvious, right? But think about which type of computer you would like. I have an iMac and I love it. However, I also have a Macbook. It’s nice to be able to work remotely if necessary, but it’s also nice to have my own little space where I can sit down and go Girlboss mode.

A planner. Whether it’s an Erin Condren or a Life Planner, find a good one that’s large enough to write your posts as well as notes and ideas. I’m currently eyeing this Kate Spade one… SWOON.

A small notebook. I have a small notebook with me at all times so I can jot down ideas for blog posts. If you’re not down with notebooks, keep a note in your phone and keep a running list there. This way, you can refer to it when you need an idea for a post. I’m also eyeing this Kate Spade one… she’s killin’ it with stationary these days!

FriXion erasable pens. These things are a lifesaver! Things change so frequently; due dates get moved, you don’t finish a post and need to put something else in it’s place or you just change your mind. These erasable pens are the only things I’ll use in my planner. Pencils smear and I hate scribbling things out.

Business cards. No matter where you are on the blogger experience spectrum, you need business cards. 1) not only does it drive traffic to your blog if you’re talking about it with someone and you hand them a card, but 2) it can bring potential business to you. Say you’re out at a boutique and your blog comes up in conversation. And they say “oh we would love to collaborate with you!” Having a business card ready shows them you’re a professional and also lets them know where to find you.

A nice camera. I know not everyone can afford or wants to invest in a DSLR camera, but I would highly suggest investing in one at some point. People are very visual and high quality photos make your blog more appealing. It’s also a great way to work with brands down the road, because they will see how well you can showcase their products. High quality images give off the impression you’re a professional, which you are. I have a Nikon d3200 and upgraded to a 35mm and 50mm 1.8 lens. Learn to shoot in manual too! It will make your pictures that much better.

Active social media channels. They’re called social media channels for a reason. Sure, they’re great for sharing your latest post, but they’re also a great way to get to know your readers and show them who you are on a personal level. Blogs are always so much more meaningful when you’re able to know the blogger behind them. Are they a mom? Do they work outside the home? Where do they live? Do they watch Bachelor in Paradise? These types of things make reading someone’s blog that much better when you know the person behind them.

Afterlight. Switching gears for a second, let’s talk about social media. Instagram filters are okay, but they don’t always make your pictures look the best. I absolutely love and swear by Afterlight. A lot of people like VSCO Cam too, but I’m just fine in Afterlight. I also always use the same filters so my pictures are cohesive on Instagram.

Budget tracker. This doesn’t only apply to those of you who are monetizing your blog at this point, but for those of you who aren’t and plan on it, keep track of everything. This includes all income from sponsored content, affiliate links, etc as well as products received. Also keep track of your expenses so that you are able to write them off come tax season!

Thick skin. I know, this may seem weird. But after three years, I’ve learned a lot about people and blogging. Not everyone is going to agree with you on every topic or like what you’re writing about. And that’s okay! There are ways to share opinions respectfully but it doesn’t always happen that way. So just remember that by blogging, you’re putting yourself out there and not everyone is going to agree with you. The quicker you accept that, the more successful you’ll be.

And there you have it! I hope you can take and use some of these in your own life and blog career. Feel free to leave me a comment or question below, and come visit me to keep in touch! xoxo

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Best,

Samantha Curtis
Blogger and Editor

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