Exciting blog news for 2016
Welcome to 2016, folks. I’m back (big arm clap) and I feel GOOD. The last few months have been the most challenging of my life and it taught me something very important: I’m trying to make way too many appetizers and side dishes. Let me explain…. but don’t worry, it’s all good news.
Someone recently told me that life is like a big dinner party – one that starts out simple and easy but after adding too many side dishes and appetizers can turn into a big buffet-style mess, with the chef on the floor of the kitchen singing ‘Le Poissiant’ from The Little Mermaid, but like, not in a good way. It’s not that the food isn’t edible, or the company isn’t cared for, it’s that I’m/your in the kitchen acting like an insane person, trying to time the roast with the dumplings, and juggle the souffle with the rolls. You know those dishes that you think will take 10 minutes so you are like, ‘sure!’ but they don’t just take 10 minutes. You still have to think about them, check to see if you have the ingredients/tools, buy everything, make each one, bake it, find a serving dish, juggle the cook-time with the other dishes, clean up, etc, etc. It’s the little optional stuff in life that can make any sane proficient multi-tasker breakdown and fail.
You’d think that the answer to this common problem is to JUST focus on the main course, and say ‘no’ to more appetizers. Quality over quantity, right? But sometimes it’s the spur of the moment little ideas that can grow into something huge, fulfilling and successful. And ultimately the thing is .. I actually love appetizers and side dishes (which is why I love styling versus renovating). My job is to create content everyday so in a way my job is making appetizers and side dishes. SO WHAT DO I DO?
To prep for “maternity leave” (I use that phrase VERY loosely) I had written 10 or so posts and we had a lot scheduled on the calendar with a healthy amount of empty days to allow for flexibility. During the six weeks that followed I wrote some posts, oversaw many posts and was barely involved in others (like Makeover Takeover). While it wasn’t perfect and there were some posts that slipped on the quality scale, I think the idea really worked. It allowed me time to grow another part of the business (partnerships) while producing good daily content, plus it gave me some extra time to spend with my new baby. But it didn’t feel quite right either, and I saw the engagement slip as some posts just weren’t that compelling (not to anyone’s fault but mine). There has always been this question of how to keep this blog personal while being accessible to a larger audience without becoming generic – the ultimate insult and fear. So what is the answer? I think that the answer is more and diverse content, from smart, funny, edgy, stylish, design and lifestyle experts and writers, IN ADDITION to me still posting. Keep what we have, just add more and better. Easy, peasy.
It sounds like I’m adding a LOT of appetizers to the menu, doesn’t it? But I think the ‘ONE BIG POST A DAY’ thing often feels too precious and limiting … and I can’t keep up with writing it on my own. My obsession with posting only original photos styled/shot by us often means that the the quality of those photos slips as we are trying to produce too much too fast. Since the emergence, (nay, threat) of Pinterest I’ve tried to make this blog a destination – the only place that you can get unique information (like makeovers), and I think it has kept this blog from becoming obsolete, and has continued to grow traffic. But, I love talking/thinking about careers, beauty, feminism, media, food/drinks, fashion, relationships and parenting in addition to style and design, and I have strong opinions/ideas and advice about all of those things. And I suppose i’m maybe just narcissistic enough to want to talk about them on this platform that has a large audience.
A few years ago I tried doing multiple posts a day and totally failed (it lasted 2 weeks) but that’s because I didn’t have help and I was writing every post myself. Also I may or may not have been taking delusional pills at the time since I had JUST had a baby. This time I already have really amazing help by my staff, and with the help of good, professional freelance writers and editors we’ll be set. Like who? People like Orlando. People like Amelia Diamond (hired by Leandra of Man Repeller) who doesn’t know I exist but whose blog-turned-site I admire very much. Now, you might be scared that things will get watered down and that the quality will diminish, but I really don’t think so, not if we find the right people. We’ll still have those meaty 9 page makeover posts with ‘get the looks’, et all, but we’ll also have quick, fun posts from me like ‘5 things that I never thought would come back in style but have’ or ‘The seemingly innocuous things my parents forced me to do that made me more creative’. The multiple post formula allows for more flexibility in case I want to talk about my regretful lash extensions, or why everyone in fashion week is wearing what looks to be $300 linen hospital gowns with cross trainers – with the follow up post about how I, myself, have purchased said gown (although, from Spain for $60) and love it despite the marital conflict that has ensued.
The solution that I’ve come up with for my ‘too many appetizers/side dishes, not enough time’ problem (and to really (egg) beat this analogy to death) is that I need more sous chefs. This won’t happen overnight because finding the right people is HARD. But I’m excited about the prospect of making the site larger, more interesting, more diverse. I want it to be both lighter and deeper at the same time. Still TOTALLY style-centric, but with some fun women’s topics mixed in with some different SMART voices. But don’t worry, it will always be pretty, informational/inspirational, personal, original and funny. No biggie.
Now to find those people …
Once again we are hiring in every department – writers, designers, graphic designers, editors, content creators, lifestyle experts, admin, even photographers all of which have to have strong graphic design skills and general knowledge of trends, blogs and the internet, with an fast/smart voice. Email jobs@emilyhendersondesign.com. Hiring full and part time and freelance, remote or LA – just basically the best of the best, wherever you are. If you are in college and want credit as an intern, we are always looking for the right intern.
In the survey last year most of you said that you would be open to more content, written by contributors as long as it was really good. Well guess what? I’m holding you to that. And I’m VERY, VERY, VERY excited.
Happy New Years, friends. Come back in a few hours for a second post where I will repost and criticize a design project I did years ago…. It involves people wallpaper and a drumset.
Meanwhile, are you scared? Do you think I’m going to succeed, fail or breakdown mid-way? Do you attempt too many appetizers? Or do you need a job? Or are all these cooking analogies just making you annoyed or really hungry? Let me know your thoughts and requests … Also if you know any amazing/compelling writers please send them my way …
I’ll admit, I’m a little bit meh about more guest posts… But only because I love your writing style so much and compare guest posts to it, with yours always being far away my absolute favorite. I love the cooking analogy and totally get why branching out is needed. And I will still visit your website daily hoping that it’s you posting 😉
I thought I felt the same way as Rane, but then I started to think about it… and I really love Orlando’s voice and I’ve been enjoying the Makeover Takeovers very much so maybe I’m actually okay with it not being 100% Emily all of the time? Anyway, over the past year, your blog has become the ONLY one I check every single day, and I used to be a crazy blog reader. I will continue to do so for as long as you post.
P.S. Got “Styled” for Christmas and speed-read it in record time. Then read it again, but more slowly. Loved every second of it. So many ideas I can’t wait to incorporate in my home. I showed my husband one picture that was similar to something we want to do and a few hours later, I caught him going through the book. (That’s BIG!) Anyway, wonderful job Emily!
I’m excited to see more random posts from you, Emily. You have such a fun, random, mind, and I love your tangents (which still relate to your subject matter). I think is a great idea! I can’t wait to read about eyelash extensions, etc! To be honest, I like a mix in a blog, even if it still has an overarching theme. That’s what keeps me coming back to blogs, as in, ‘what will she come up with next’? Etc etc.
I’m usually a lurker, not a commenter. Lol.
But, well Emily, I just love you and SO LOOK FORWARD to your delicious appetizers! Keep them coming!
I love your writing, blog and I think having more guest posts is a good idea. This is already my favourite blog and I am sure it will stay so through 2016.
Happy New Year Emily!!!
I started reading and then POOF I had to have some breakfast before I continued reading! (My husband thanks you) I love reading you, but also know that anyone YOU select to guest blog will be a great and informative read! I wish you all the best in 2016! xox
I’m all in for more Orlando! ; )
Maybe I should apply for editor? Here’s a typo: “your in the kitchen” (should be “you’re”). ; )
Ha. thank you. no copy writer today …
Also, the song is “Les Poissons,” which means, “The Fish.”
Welcome back,
Great to see you with a new spark. Would love to get more informative content from you.
Honestly I’m more into you posting. Also it doesn’t matter to me as much what the posts are about. The blog is still about decorating which I enjoy the most. I’m cool with you posting as it fits your schedule. I don’t read blogs daily like I use too. So I always come in and get caught up.
I’ve been a fan of your blog for ages, and don’t see the change as a bad thing. I primarily visit for great inspiration, styling tips, and sources on where to find cool furniture and decor. I love your voice, but won’t mind hearing from others. Orlando’s posts have been great, and so have others on your team (although I admit I can’t remember who is who besides Brady). You do what you need to do, girl! I’ll still be reading.
P.S. I got your book for Christmas. Love it!
I’m pretty obsessed with YOUR writing, but can totally understand where you’re coming from. I have complete confidence that you’ll find fun contributors to feature, such as Orlando. I mean, who doesn’t love Orlando, because he’s…..well….Orlando! The new approach reminds me a bit of Joanna’s blog- Cup of Jo. (Though I know her blog is more of a lifestyle blog, as apposed to a design blog, with occasional design posts.) Joanna is the star voice, but has contributors, offers main courses (more deep and in depth posts) while still offering plenty of appetizer posts with fun lighthearted tidbits. I’m in Emily!! Bring it 2016!!
Well, I heard Younghouselove is doing some freelance work … their writing is pretty great.
I am all support for work/life balance and doing what you need to do. I read this post thinking this is pretty fun, and of all the great new voices this could bring to a well traveled place on the internet – but I probably would not have commented had Nicola’s great idea not struck me as very exciting. I think you could potentially bring together some great guest writers who no longer blog (or would not be a good fit for full time blogging) but who’s voices are missed, good content for you and a less demanding platform that the full blown blog for them…
I’ve followed your blog more than any other over the past 5 or so years, so I trust that your instincts will keep the content interesting and relevant whatever you do!
oh my gosh yes! I would love love love to see a younghouselove guest post!
yesssss please yhl!!!
Yes, the YoungHouseLove blog was amazing. I was so sorry to see them stop after so long. Their guest posts would be an awesome addition.
Change is always scary, but I think you will be able to pull it off. I love the personal blogs just as much as the content ones. I love Orlando and Orcondo. I am looking forward to a new 2016.
I love blogs, especially yours, and read a number of them a day. Sometimes the content on a blog doesn’t interest me so I browse it, and then come back the next day. But, if a blog has the right tone and passion (which yours has an abundance of) I will always come back! I am all for your guest posts – I read “A Beautiful Mess” and they have done a good job of balancing posts. Sometimes I read them thoroughly, sometimes I browse, but I always go back and check to see if there is a new post up.
I am just wondering what I can do, as a blog reader, to make my interaction more meaningful. Is it enough that I click on your blog, and occassionally on an advertisment? Or, do you like comments? I want to be a good reader but, I don’t really understand how blogs make money or measure engagement.
I stopped coming here on a daily basis because of the baby/parenting posts. I have two toddlers of my own so the topic interests me but I’d rather read about it on parenting blogs. I come here for design!
Same here. I also have a toddler Charlie’s age, but I don’t read this blog for parenting advice. After the two Doctors on Demand posts, I almost gave up this blog. I understand the need for sponsors, and I don’t mind them as long as they’re relevant to the content of the blog (in this case, decor and styling). I’m excited to read more design perspectives on the blog, and I’m hoping having more contributors leads to better content and less filler and random sponsored posts.
emily, i think you should do what you want to do. however, like megan and nikki and perhaps other readers, i come to your blog for design info. i used to check your blog daily or every other day…now i suspect, your blog won’t be so much a priority for me . you have design expertise. it’s proven. it’s great. it’s fabulous, in fact. i just don’t want to read blog posts that are unrelated to design.
I think to each his (her) own… I don’t have any kiddos, but love to see the posts about yours, Emily. It also gives me to opportunity to see your design choices (linen/rug/pillows showcasing crazy cute buddies) from an angle we wouldn’t typically see with a more classically-shot frame. Plus, you’re funny. And real. There are cold voices out there with impeccable style, but I prefer your voice which gives us the beauty and a side of charm. Which is approachable. Keep it up.
Also: Orlando.
I think I’m on with Megan about the sponsored posts. Those are the only ones that I’ve been skipping.
I love Emily’s voice, but also don’t like the toddler/baby posts.
A regular appearance from Orlando and Young House Love would be great! And as a related aside, YHL did the odd family post that was on a separate section of their website…
I’ve just realised this is my first time visiting since the Doctor post. For a split second I thought I had the wrong blog that day, but I now think it’s because things like that are becoming important to you. Perhaps your focus is shifting, as you spend more time parenting and less time designing.
I think it’s probably wise to buy in more design content at this key stage in your life. Sure some of us are selfishly very disappointed, but having stayed at home myself with my girls, I also completely understand. Just please don’t dilute the design content and becoming a baby talk blog. Or do that under a different name! ?
I’m scared for you but I’m also excited because buffets are my favourite 😉 I like the idea of more diversity (in fact, I just wrote about this exact thing on my blog) but you’ve set such a high standard with your personal style and writing that it will take a lot to convince me as a reader that others can relay that “Emily-ness” in the same way. I do look forward to trying out the new dishes though!
I freaking love pretty much anything you do, and anything Orlando does, so more of that is always welcome. The makeover takeover posts had potential but not enough meat, IMO – progress posts with more progress would be better than a whole post solely on ‘picking a paint colour.’ I still liked them, I just felt like they didn’t have as much substance as you normally dish up. Not knocking the writers though, don’t get me wrong.
Also, I just (finally) got your book and it’s stupidly awesome. That is all.
Yeah. Thank you! Agreed about the makeover takeover, so don’t worry, we have some reveals coming up …
The thing I enjoy most about your blog is your writing style, so having other writers on it kind of bums me out a little. I’ll keep coming back to the blog because of all the beautiful pictures, but my favorite part is the way you write Emily. Totally understand the need to balance everything though. I remember being a working mom with young kids and it was really hard to balance everything. I finally came to the conclusion that I couldn’t do everything and do it all as well as I wanted to, so I had to let some stuff go and let other stuff just be “adequate” as opposed to awesome. I think it’s a battle ever working parent faces. Good luck! I’m rooting for you. 🙂
PS But I totally didn’t mean your blog is just “adequate”, it’s awesome!!! I realized that came out the wrong way. 🙂
Chiming in to say I support this evolution and am excited to see what comes next. Your efforts at keeping this blog relevant in the age of Pinterest have been both successful and appreciated by much of your readership (myself included). Thank you Emily (and friends). Best, fellow former Oregonian Rebecca D.
more makeovers and additions to the flea please!
Yes, I’d love to buy more flea!!!
You’re a genius, Emily! I believe you just invented a ‘Fish Croissant’ with ‘Le Poissiant’. I really think it will take over from the Cronut in 2016.
Really looking forward to following your blog this year. There’s so many basic styling tips that I never learned in design school. Your blog has been a great learning tool for me. Thanks for all of your hard work!
“I believe you just invented a ‘Fish Croissant’ with ‘Le Poissiant’” – that’s the best comment.
Is it sad that I remember exactly what room you’re talking about with the drum set and people wall paper from your tv show?
I’m also for more Emily approved voices on the blog. I love the big design main courses, but understand that’s hard to do. So just know that I’ll keep reading!
Heck yeah, bring it on this sounds fantastic!
I think you and your ideas sound great! You are a creative soul so you’ve gotta change things up often! If it’s not what you want/thought it would be, change again! : )
I really trust your judgement on this. You’ve earned it!
It sounds like it’s worth a try. I hope your blog will be able to maintain the freshness and the quality of content that you have had all along.
On a technical note, I haven’t been able to read your blog on my Nook since October. I have to read it on my desktop computer, which isn’t as convenient, therefore I don’t read it as often. Do I need some sort of app, or is the blog not enabled for Android? I wonder if anyone else has had this problem. Thanks in advance for any technical assistance your team can provide.
Emily, your voice IS the blog. But of course we can adapt to new voices and the widening content sounds awesome. Your blog does bring the humor and Orlando and Brady share that with you. So don’t get too serious on us, k? I am reading your book right now and am pleasantly surprised at the content. Anyone thinking about getting the book should order it. For those in the early years of making a home, you will reference this book time and again! Great job, Em!
Orlando and Brady are very good too, agreed!
I’m excited to see how your blog evolves! One thing I’d love to see is a post that immediately identifies who the writer is. With some blogs, you can’t tell whose voice it is until you’ve read for a while. As a reader, it can be confusing. I don’t believe your blog has had that problem, but others have. As long as you’re right up front about it, I greatly enjoy the other voices!
I’m all for it and every post you’ve suggested thus far has me like YES! I’m particularly curious about this whole hospital gown situation.
Yeah! I am excited about this direction! I love posts written by you, but I do think it’ll be interesting to have guest posts by people you picked!
I’m totally supportive of any working mom’s right to do whatever she wishes to make work-life balance palatable. That being said, as a reader, I’m not a fan of this particular plan and will probably drop this blog (I’ll give it a week of the “guests’ posts” and then decide). As others have said, the reason I came to and enjoy this blog is your unique voice, and esp. about styling tips. Both of those have been few and far between lately, and while the guest posters thus far sound like delightful people, I don’t enjoy their posts much. Not enough real content about how to style things or design, for that matter, and terrible editing (or total lack thereof). To read now that there will be more of that, and not less… well, it is not something I would continue reading, as I can google and catch a medley of great writers in other ways. I’m sorry this comes off as negative, but I’m bummed out – feels like a secret way to do the slow adieu that younghouselove did but just not call it that. At the same time, I do get it; you have to do what you have to do, and it’s clear that you put a lot of thought into how to appease readers while maintaining your sanity. It sounds like other readers here are excited though, and enjoy the guests’ posts, so you’ll still have a great audience, I’m sure. And perhaps I’ll be pleasantly surprised – I’ll give it that one week. All the best to you, and good luck with it!
I agree with Sarah. I must be the only commenter here who doesn’t like Orlando! He imitates your voice but it doesn’t work. With Brady etc, I find it weird to read a blog written by stylists that comes across as so… Amateur, I suppose. They don’t think they know what they’re doing and neither do we. I can read amateur (as in, non-professionals who love the topic) blogs anywhere. I like your professional approach. And jeez, I know you were on mat leave, but don’t they get freebies for working there? I felt they should at least get to name drop that they’d had your advice on their choices.
That said, I probably won’t give up the blog, but I doubt I’ll drop in every day. And I don’t see an alternative that lets you spend time with your kids, either, so good luck!
I agree with both Sarah and Leila. Not because I don’t like Orlando or Brady, but I really chose to skip some of the days they post and don’t read. I can’t quite figure out where you headed so I’ll stick with you for a while, but I am not a fan of multiple posts a day. YHL did but with all their own voice and not multiple content creators. It sounds like you’re headed toward an Apartment Therapy type setup, which I also don’t subscribe too since it’s just too much. I love your dedicated content, but appreciate where you’re coming from for sure. Also, as a note to a comment below about your fashion posts – I do also read them and like them for your wit and candor. You are a Stylist who is stylish, so the topics seem hand and in hand to me!
This sounds great!! Cup of Joe did this also and it has worked so well, I haven’t minded at all! I would LOVE to get more posts from Orlando – he is amazing and I am waiting for the full final Orcondo tour! Keep up the good work!
all aboard the Em.henderson train! I’m ready for whatever you want to give us. also googled amelia diamond and now am planning to binge-read all of her articles on man repeller. so YES to her! you pretty much can do no wrong. 🙂 happy 2016!
“i’m may…” typo! Regarding blog changes, imo, sometimes too much is just too much. One concisely edited blog post from you is entertaining, posts from others that go on and on…too much. Agree with other commenters this is a design blog, not a mommy blog, or is it? Sometimes I can’t tell. (thats not to say I don’t find your children the cutest!)
YHL do informative DIYs…addictive in their own way, but their writing is so different from what we get here. And it would be sad if the writing quality changed. Also, while the new ideas Emily has sound exciting, I’d be heartbroken and bored if we started seeing construction or plumbing DIYs here.
Emily is discerning and awesome and I’m confident that she’ll pick the right contributors. Thanks, Emily, for your energy and positivity and keeping the blog a priority and taking care of your sanity by getting good help!
A note about fashion posts: Emily has done original, interesting ones which do not just share the same type of boots and jeans every time, and for that, I am grateful. I hope that concept continues!
Love love LOVE the fashion posts!!
I am excited to see what is coming!
Also, I love your feminist/carerr/mama/anything posts. I never want to see them stop.
What she said!!
I can’t imagine that I’ll ever stop reading your blog entirely, and I’m all for you doing what you need to do, so best of luck with everything. In my opinion, your blog isn’t what it once was (more watered down, too many sponsored posts, not enough design, etc) and personally wish you would take the younghouselove route first and get back to basics even if that means less posts. That said, you have never failed me yet, have impeccable instincts and I’m sure you will prove me wrong. I wish you all the best because you are the best.
Good luck!
xo
this.
Emily, you can do no wrong. I’ve never stopped devouring your every post.
I especially like what you mention here for possible posts (things parents forced me to do, etc). I love hearing your voice on any subject. After reading it, I feel like I learned our changed/recommitted my thoughts in valuable way.
I will continue to read no matter what!
i’m interested in your point of view and experience. and not so much that of the other contributors you’ve featured.
i’ve just watched another blonde, blue-eyed, creative, well-educated, sophisticated craft blogger devolve into an aggregator of links and half-assed sponsored posts with unedited and badly written instructions. she now believes photographs of herself in freebie clothes is blogging. uhm, no.
i think you have more integrity than that.
Emily, I’ve been a huge fan since your HGTV days! I think other people writing can be great. Orlando is always awesome! It just had to be someone with your same quirky, witty and eclectic voice and style. Every post doesn’t have to be book length either, short and sweet is fine on some days. Unfortunately, I’m not a fan of the mother posts, I come here for the design and style. Happy New Year!
I agree with others that I could definitely do without parenting posts. I am a mom also, but in the evenings when I put my son to bed I like to immerse myself in my favorite blogs and escape my mom diuties for an hour or so. The last thing I want to read about it sleepless nights or mom woes. The sponsored internet Doctor post almost sent me over the edge and I haven’t visited the site much since that honestly.
I do still love your style and I’m just trying to give honest feedback on why my personal readership went down recently. I would be totally fine with 3 good quality posts per week. I don’t have time to read daily blog posts from all my favorite bloggers anyways.
Hi emily
I have only just found your blog, and the book arrived today! I’m an interior stylist from England and find your website really informative and inspiring, so thank you. I too am a mother and a blogger so i say hallelujah for delagating. That’s what being a kick ass editor is all about. I wish you all the best and look forward to keeping posted
http://www.sophierobinson.co.uk/
Sophie and Emily in one place at the same time – interiors heaven! Love the work of both of you.
I’m childless, and applaud women who find a way to combine working and bringing up kids. Whatever it takes to give your life balance…
I clicked on your link as a lark and instantly recognized you from the Great Interior Design Challenge shows! I devoured that series on youtube, and you did a fantastic job.
I’m not so sure about this. I come here for your amazing design posts, before and afters, 4-ways posts etc. Not so much to see an intern redesign their bedroom/lounge. Lately when I see it’s a parenting post, I don’t bother to read at all. I’m 54 years old after all, I could write my own book on parenting three grown up children. Although you have a lot of opinions about a lot of different topics (who doesn’t) if you’re going to diversif, the blog will just become like an everygirl.com where every topic under the sun is discussed, which is fine if that is what the blog is about.
Okay, now I’m dying to hear about the eye lash extensions gone wrong 🙂 Please share with a fellow fair skinned reader that can empathize with invisible lashes 🙂
Here’s a request (from an almost30somethingOOF nurse living in Brooklyn): A post on how to choose pieces that are classic and stay in style for years to come. I’m moving to a new apartment in Brooklyn next month (umm come style it?!- hey a girl can dream) and would love a bit on how to choose classics for a gal on a pretty tight budget. I pine for a dreamy Chesterfield but it’s out of range- dang. Is mid-century modern just a phase? Talk to me oh-knowledgeable-one.
Most of us follow you, erm, stalk you (hello IG, Twitter, FB, blog) as we do because of your style and your voice. It’s very distinctive and engaging. That being said I trust your sense of style to navigate this new direction. You’ve introduced me many new styles/designers that I admire so I am looking forward to hearing from who/what inspires you. Also, more Orlando? Yes, please!
Your blog is one of the only blogs I visit every day and would love a reason to come back twice a day! As many other commenters have mentioned, I love your blog for you. Your writing, your style, your kids, your experience with motherhood, traveling, etc. I just had a baby around the same time as your Elliot was born so that is exciting to see how you’re dealing with a newborn too. Excited to see what partnerships you have in the works. Happy New Year, Emily!
People get so fired up about these matters. So long as Team Emily keeps producing original, thoughtful content that inspires me, I will keep coming back. I especially love the design mistakes series. Genius!
As a mom to a toddler and currently pregnant with my second child, I like Emily’s personal parenting posts. I’ve seen sponsored Doctors on Demand posts on other blogs and simply skipped that one when I saw it here because it didn’t interest me. But I’ve also skipped certain posts exclusively dedicated to mid-century design because my style leans more traditional.
Do whatever feels right, Emily. No blog/website can be everything to everyone all the time. I think you’re killing it.
I know it’ honest feedback, but I’m surprised by some of the negative comments about Emily’s parenting posts. I don’t have children, but don’t mind and even enjoy most if Emily’s writing about family life. It’s not excessive and I regard it as a bit of behind the scenes information about what it’s like to run a business and write a blog while trying to live a life. Why drop an entire blog just because you’re not interested in the topic written about on a given day? Just don’t read that post. I, for instance, usually avoid anything DIY but don’t begrudge those who like it.
Yes! Totally agree with this comment. So long as the parenting posts are in Emily’s voice, I still enjoy them. I have kids though so maybe I’m biased. Looking forward to what’s in store.
Anything, and I mean anything, my Emily is worth reading.
I received your book for my birthday (smart husband!) and I LOVE it! I’ll confess that it’s what I wish the blog was all the time, maybe what it used to be? Your blog has made me a daily blog reader, and I’ll keep on cruising yours, but if the trend that has happened for the last 6 months continues, I’ll probably do more skimming than reading, The increase in overt sponsor posts and the Makeover Takeover and 1 (blank) Styled 4 Ways seems a little fluffy to me and more quantity than quality. But blogs, like life, are ever evolving (which is one of the things that’s so great about them), and dang it, it’s YOUR blog! Do whatever the heck you want, right? Even if that means less writing and more hands on with work and family. Plus, if the purpose at this point is making money and drawing in clients and partnerships, well, then you gotta do what you gotta do.
I love your writing, style and taste, and I appreciate your accessibility, humanity and practicality. If that remains the focus of the blog (and not sneaky advertising), I’ll keep reading. If not, I’ll still be an EH fan for life. : )
Congrats on the new addition! Babies and toddlers are a trip. The best and most challenging thing all at once.
Because you asked (sort of) …
I almost always love your design/style-related posts, and I typically enjoy Orlando’s very much, too. You both have witty voices that are just fun and engaging, plus you are both talented designers, so the accompanying pics are inspirational eye-candy, without a doubt. The relationship posts, like when you write about marriage, are always insightful, and I’ve even forwarded them on to friends! But the parenting posts typically aren’t my cup of tea because my only child is 10 — much older than your kiddos, so I’m probably not the best judge of how relevant/compelling the parenting posts are to those in the target audience. Honestly, I really didn’t enjoy the Makeover Takeover posts (I was bummed that there didn’t seem to be major “makeovering” happening in most of those, a little snoozer, though I’m sure your post contributors are wonderfully talented and amazing), but I hear you saying that the contributed/guest posts moving forward would not be like those posts. Sooo, do what you gotta do. Balancing parenting and work is tough stuff, and every momma/poppa has to find what works for them. If this is what works for you and yours, awesome. It takes a village, and I’m sure there is likely way more teamwork that goes into your blog than we the readers are aware of anyway. As for requests, the “one thing, four ways” posts are always my fave, so more of those? PS Your book is the bomb. 🙂
I will say (26, engaged, wild, and childless), I LOVE the parenting posts! I think it’s so interesting to read about peoples different perspectives on the matter. Would I come to your site if it was a parenting site? Nah. But I think it’s kind of nice you break things up occasionally. It removes the starkness. Makes you a real person. I think it’s really important to talk about too, opens up a dialogue that there isn’t a “perfect” way to do anything. It’s hard but also seems amazing which I think is hard for us perfection seeking, Instagram curating millennials. Just my point of view! I know its not for everyone!
The demographics of comment-ers loving/hating the parenting post is interesting. I’m also childless but not quite as young and wild (married, 29) but kids are in my not-so-distant future and I really enjoy the parenting posts. I have always loved reading the “life” posts of bloggers that are 5-10 years older than me because they were a way of absorbing stories and advice of what’s to come in my own life, especially when the posts are concrete. I loved your post on baby-proofing and the discussion of your approach vs. your husbands because it was easy to relate to (I see my husband and I going down the same path), showed examples of how to stylishly babyproof a house (I can give up my marble coffee table and still have the house look good), AND discussed why you hired someone to do it (hiring someone is not a crime). I similarly loved reading Young House Love’s post about cloth diapering even though I was only about 25 when I read it. But I can totally see how someone who has a 10 year old may say, “been there, done that, not relevant to me.”
As much as I do love most of your parenting posts, I didn’t love the Doctor on Demand posts. Well, that’s not a totally fair assessment because I actually didn’t read them. I don’t mind the sponsored posts that are more closely design-related, but those felt like they strayed so far from the design-centric blog that I skipped over them like I would a section of a magazine with “Advertisement” across the top. But I definitely like the more candid parenting posts that provide concrete advice and explain your thought process.
I have a tiny little home decor blog and feel as if I cannot keep up. I have no clue how you manage to do what you do, travel, design, look amazing, raise little ones and handle this blog. I think bringing in difference voices and ideas is a great idea. I have been blogging for two years about my home and there are only so many things I can do to my home. I am not to the point of running out of ideas, but eventually it will happen!
Honestly, when I first started reading this post, I got scared. But as I read through the details of what you’re hoping to do and the example article titles (real or not) I was like “I would totally read that”. I trust you’ll make it awesome and partners with other equally awesome souls as well. Looking forward to seeing the site grow.
I thought you were going to say you were changing out the stone on your fireplace facade.
This sounds very fun – and like lots more work than a fireplace makeover.
ok! those of us that love the crazy emily will follow you down your path. whatever it might be. more peeps. different topics. you need to grow your brand which is you. I think 96% of us like you and not just cause the stuff looks pretty. we love your voice -because you sound like us or our sister or crazy bff! happy new year! and congrats! all smiley faces and rainbows!
I totally agree with this! I love your blog because you seem like so much fun. I’m in my middle 40’s without children, but still love all your posts because everything you write is so fun. I feel like a voyeur into your life and your family! Love you.
Hey Girl,
As a mom of 3 wonderfully challenging young people, I completely understand the life and work changes required to survive. That said, I’m hoping this change to your incredibly unique content doesn’t become a Mexican-Italian-fast food-sit down restaurant with a 7 course menu and an al a carte drive thru. When I’m craving Indian food and sushi and want to sit in a navy blue velvet booth with a fiddle fig overhead while eating off of matte gold utensils – I come here. It’s reliable and fresh. It’s not irritating to navigate like Apartment Therapy or rash with sponsors like most blogs (cough-BowerPower-cough). Stay true to yourself – even if it means closing the restaurant on Mondays and Tuesdays. No matter what: make sure baby snuggles are #1 on your list. 😉
I am AMPED for this. What it’s making me think of is a smaller scale apartment therapy as far as blog set ups go but with a much tighter niche and curated to fit the EHD ‘brand’. If that makes any sense… If that’s kind of what’s coming, IM SO ON BOARD.
Also, can I just say, I think it’s super brave and inspiring to be able to see within yourself a need to change (whether in business or personally) and on top of it, be excited about the change. BRAVA lady. YOU FLIP THAT SCRIPT!
I think that this could be a great idea, but I would love to see more design-related posts from others (not just a jumble of fashion related posts, etc.)
I love Orlando and would LOVE to have more Orlando blog time. I also really like the posts that your team has been doing and I hope they continue.
I think it could be really cool to have a once or twice a month book review about a new design or style book that has come out–I can’t buy them all and I’d love to hear about some of the latest ones. When you did this with The New Bohemians I thought it was really successful (and I bought the book!)
You are the best analogy maker in the world. And yes, I’m very excited about new content. I’ve been a fan for years and have come to enjoy lifestyle/personal posts just as much if not more than design ones. Thanks for doing what you do!
This is good news and I think the blog will not fail. The staff and design friends you have already seem pretty remarkable with your vision. I look forward to this. Happy new Year!
I love your writing style but have complete faith that you will choose guest writers who are great as well. Not to throw other blogs out there but Cup of Jo is my other daily read, I love Joanna’s writing style but I like her team members’ posts just as much (most likely because she hired them). Sometimes they will post something as quick as “look at this adorable onesie” and it’s enough. I realize I sound like an addict looking for a quick hit but I don’t always have the time to read through the meatier posts so quick hits are just as welcomed. Just don’t overthink things! Your readers are sitting here receiving AWESOME (AND FREE!) content on a daily basis, we have nothing to complain about 🙂
Cup of Jo is the only other one I read too.
I LOVE YOU EMILY BUT I ALSO LOVE ORLANDO OMGG YAY MORE ORLANDO!
Please no YHL – your expertise is vast against the DIY designers and I’d much rather hear from you. I love seeing the makeover takeovers – the content is solid and interesting. As long as whoever is writing is giving me something of strong content and substance, I’m happy. I just hope it’s a strong Emily/Others balance – too little Emily would be sad. And what would make me really happy is seeing MORE craigslist posts. i LOVED those. 🙂
Emily I’ve loved your blog for years and you have the most fabulous style and blog voice out there. I read through the comments to see what everyone was thinking about the change, I hope you take the comments in stride–you need the blog to be doable for you or it will go away.
Love the idea of great guest posts! My first choice is always style and design posts, but I like your family posts as well!
As others have mentioned, love the idea of Orlando as a recurring guest, also YHL would be fun, love Kim Myles’ style as well, coco+kelley has a great blog, and Kelley Moore, used to love her blog years ago. It would be amazing if you could get quality people (maybe previous bloggers now to busy, see above;) to commit to one or two posts a month.
I think all of your readers love you and would prefer quality over quantity any day:) Best of luck and always looking forward to posts.
I really trust your instincts and I’m totally excited about your new plan is… You see, the writing is why I come here over and over again … and comment over and over again. It’s not all the amazing rooms, which I adore! BUT I visit blogs with amazing rooms all the time (amber, etc.) and they don’t engage or inform or share anything… and so I move on…. Your site is like a destination, I think you said that actually. I come here and stay for awhile. I’m usually trying to figure out why my bookshelves look flat or how to learn about upholstery, etc.
The thing is, your voice is so refreshing and relevant and hilarious.. The idea of not hearing it everyday is a bummer. Yet, the first guest post I read from Orlando, I just died. I just loved it and him and I couldn’t get enough. I think I even told him to not be so funny on your blog. He was A-W-E-S-O-M-E. I realize finding another Orlando or Emily in the universe will be difficult but I think you will find them or they will find you.
AND the reality is,…. you just finished a book and had another kid….and, I’m just happy you keep showing up everyday. If you went “lights out” like younghouselove, I would just kill myself. …and I think you’re making sure that doesn’t happen. So, thank you!
So bring on the new year!!! and good luck!! xoxoxoxo
PS. The other thing that I love about you is — I know you will read this comment, because you really do care.
PPS. By no means are the past contributors to your blog, not worthy, they are great. They just have a tough act to follow.
PPPS. Please bring back “BEHIND THE SCENES WITH BRADY”, love those!!!!
Completely agree here!! With each and every single word.
I completely enjoy your blog and am looking forward to all that 2016 has in store here.
Actually… Exactly what Kelly just said.
Happy New Year and congratulations on the new exciting news!!! My two Lincolns, you are going to continue to be a huge success, offer more great content and deliver it with the same witty, insightful voice we’ve all grown to adore! Meanwhile, I’m over here starved to death LOVING the cooking analogies! ?
I would also love the opportunity to work with your team in anyway possible. A little about me, for the last 5 years I’ve owned and operated a boutique vintage design store in Washington DC, called FOUNDRY (www.foundrybyfreeman.com) really focusing on helping people tell their personal style story, one unique piece at a time.
I’ve loved every single second of this experience from the “picking” to the design install in a customers home, each aspect offering me something new, a growth I never expected.
I’m true lover of all things Vintage, furniture and clothing with a real personal affinity for Vintage jewelry. Weather writing, blogging or photographing I’m always in search of something unique to share with my clients and followers.
I could go on and on but realize you’ve probably recieved thousands of notes today like mine so I’ll wrap up for now and give you a minute then breathe between emails.
I’d love the opportunity to contribute to your team and talk, if that’s possible please let me know!
I can be reached at the email above or also
On FB: foundryinteriors
In the meantime, keep up the great work! You are a true inspiration and following along with you on your journey is a delightful gift.
My best to you!
Yvette
I would rather read fewer posts (2-3 times a week?) written in YOUR voice which is the heart and soul of this blog. I’m a Johnny-Come-Lately to this blog, but I’m here because I find your tone (as well as your style) very infectious and fun!
I agree. I’d rather read fewer posts written by you and about design and design-related things (like shops, craigslist finds, etc). Although, more posts by Orlando are always welcome, as he is the BEST, and I do like the Behind the Scenes posts as opposed to the makeover takeover posts. Whatever you end up doing, I will remain a big fan and continue to visit the site. 🙂
I think it’s an AMAZING experiment and I for one, am really excited to hear from others who you admire. I would seriously love to read “The seemingly innocuous things my parents forced me to do that made me more creative”!
I agree with most people here — do what you have to do. I just want to add that shorter posts are ok too! Honestly, I don’t often have time to read the long posts and end up skimming them anyway, or skipping them entirely. Shorter posts are probably easier for you to write anyway, so don’t be afraid to produce more of them!
so Helpful . Fortunate me I discovered your web site…thanks Happy new year!
Your blog is amazing! I’d rather see fewer posts if it meant you were the primary contributor. Other blogs have gone downhill in my opinion through their expansion efforts. We love YOU and what YOU have to say!! Best of luck!
I’m a little leery about more guest writers, but only because I’ve been reading for so long and have always loved almost everything.
You have such a gift for making your readers feel included. Love Orlando, so if the new writers are anywhere close to his and your talent all should be well.
As a designer I have to admit I’d rather you stayed focused more on design and styling. There are so few blogs out there that find inspirational and relatable and I’ve always enjoyed your blog for that. Don’t get me wrong I like the personal posts because that just keeps it real. I’ll keep reading and see how it goes but in my experience more people just means more to manage and less time for the good stuff… design.
Well I’m super excited for more posts AND shorter posts. Reading the comments, it’s clear we all love your writing voice. But I think some people are a little in la-la land about how you can keep moving forward at your previous rate. You now have a WHOLE ‘NOTHER LIVING BEING to care for! You have two kids, a husband, a growing business, plus friends and family to keep close to, not to mention time needed for tv-binge-watching. It TOTALLY makes sense that things need to change up with how you balance blog/family/work. And I see it this way– we will get better content from you (even if it’s less than before) BECAUSE you’re choosing a beautiful, balanced life. So I’m going to keep reading and a whole bunch of us will keep reading and hell, I’ll make it my personal mission to pin/tweet/click every new blog post and make my friends do it too. (I’m pretty persuasive.) 2016 is going to be amazing for you. You are already trusting yourself, which is HUGE. *praise hands* *hair flip*
Well said!
Hi Emily,
You’ll be great! Everything you write no matter how big or small is witty, clever and interesting, and I’m sure your guest writers will be the same (they always have been in the past – especially Orlando!)
By the way, my daughter gave me your book for Christmas as she knows how much i love your blog (had it sent all the way here to Australia) and i absolutely LOVE it!
Don’t stress, just enjoy your young family no matter what you have to do to make that happen because they grow up in the blink of an eye.
Love from the land of Oz x
Boo! I thought you were going to announce you are doing a podcast. Love your writing and posts the most please don’t outsource too much!! 🙂
Sounds exciting to me! Making a blog a destination must be challenging in today’s landscape and I’m for whatever keeps you in business. Also, I love Ginny’s voice. Keep her in the rotation, please!
Yasssssssss I’m so excited about this! More Orlando please for sure!
I think it’s an incredibly intelligent way to make sure you can stay sane and keep this blog going rather than burning out. Also – I’m sure anyone you find interesting will also be someone I find interesting!
Also – you know what’s so cool about you? If you try it and it doesn’t turn out like you hoped, you’re the first one to get on top of it and address it, and turn it around into something that works.
So as much as I love you and this blog and the design tips especially, I am so excited for the change for 2016! Bring it on!
It’s been interesting to have an outsiders perspective of the blog, both in reading it and in looking at comments. You very clearly have a group of people who are in love with your style and your personality, and I count myself as one of them. I feel like I’ve gotten to see a good piece of your journey (I still remember getting an excited text from my sister when you announced your first pregnancy), and it’s been a privilege to witness your life change adding Elliot to the mix as well.
I think that I, personally, am only confused on what it is that you’re looking for from this blog. There’s been an evolution–when I first started reading, you had A Show and the blog was a fun side piece to that. Then it seemed like you were A Stylist and the blog was a way of documenting that. Now are you A Blogger? I think if that is the intent, it makes sense to build as much into the blog as possible. Blog content, even if you lose some of your audience who is here for you, keeps being a blogger rolling. If that’s not the case, and you’re still focused most on design/styling jobs, than it makes less sense to me to have an influx of posts for the sake of posts.
Recently you posted that you were tired after having a second baby and could not post as frequently. The comments on that post were so uplifting; people supporting the fact that you were going to take care of yourself, not wring yourself dry, and still stay true to who you are. I think that’s a very, very commendable option as well, and I think that’s what I’d be most glad to see from this blog. If that’s not what you’re dreaming this blog will be in your life though, I’ll still be here through that too 🙂
Cheryl makes some good points. Being true to what you really want is important. You have the stuff to make your dream (whatever that is) come true.
Nope, not scared. You’ll do fine. Even if you took more time off while your little ones are little, everyone would understand and would come back when you do. Don’t worry about it.
Good. For. You. Rome wasn’t built and re-built (written, photographed and edited) in a day, every day. I like your blog a lot and I didn’t realize it aimed to be an every day endeavor. Not sure how anyone does that without an army of writers. Quality over quantity every time and you will continue to succeed (and be a destination) whether it is with guest posters or not.
Very eager to read how your parents helped nurture your creativity.
I have a great idea for your blog if you want to PM me (email).
I’ve seen a few of my fav blogs make changes, that have ultimately lost me as a reader. I saw them going down that path, and I never said anything. But, there are very few blogs I check on the daily anymore (yours is almost the last), so I’ll give my two cents (as a reader who’se been with you since the Design Star re-cap posts): I’m scared. I trust you, but I’m scared.
I’m interested in your unique voice on design. I appreciate your personal blog posts too, but only because I like your voice.
I “tuned in” during your maternity leave, but the non-Emily content was not interesting, a little flat. I’m not a fan of guest posts generally.
I will say that your sponsored posts have been great. So already you are taking a unique path. So, just be you and do you. And we’ll let you know if the blog doesn’t “feel like” you anymore.
I’m a little scared. To beat your analogy egg until stiff peaks form: too many cooks spoil the soup.
I think I really got drawn into your site about 4 years ago – back when content had a more behind the scene feel. Plenty of tips and room reveals, but there was a sense of “realness” which I do feel has been pushed aside in favor of the polished, finished vibe. Obviously, to grow your brand the polished is what’s needed, but for me I enjoy design blogs / sites to see how others work and what their process is- and that’s why blogs are so great, because they’re personal and not just a portfolio. I don’t know about everyone else but I wouldn’t mind seeing more “real” posts like the past and less polished looks..
I’ve been following your blog for a few years now and, like so many others, love your voice and sense of humor. I think if there were fewer posts from you personally I would be a little sad. But as you mentioned it’s all about finding the right people that can collectively maintain or enhance your vision/voice. Also, I’m a graphic designer and just took the freelance plunge. I would be so thrilled to join your team of contributors!
As many other readers have posted, I find your writing style to be unique and very enjoyable. I would prefer 1-2 significant posts written by you each week, with the guest posts filling in the off days, if your time permits. The other styling blogs on my favorite list post much less frequently than you. When you are busy making videos or doing client work, it would be great to see some additions to your design portfolio or links to the videos. For some reason, I’m seeing a pattern with styling/designing bloggers where the portfolio updating comes to a screeching halt when the blog posts start to flow.
Your blog is one of the few I still read regularly. I’ve stopped checking in so often on Cup of Jo and hardly ever read Design*Sponge because of similar changes they made. Obviously Oh Joy has made a different choice and I’m not sure how the economics are working out for those folks. But, I think the essential “it”-ness of a successful blog is the founder’s voice, and too much extra stuff just dilutes it. You asked for our opinions and that’s mine. I prefer less, more authentic content.
I don’t tend to leave comments-but I read your blog and love your style Em! Your blogger voice is genuine and quirky and fun. I don’t doubt you’ll find the right people. I think you’ll be a good judge of character and will find people to compliment what you’ve already started on your blog. Congrats on growing and continuing to grow! Cheers!
-L
Hi Emily,
I am a long-time follower and as everyone who commented I love your blog and style. I think you have a unique voice and I appreciate that you always post your own content – makeovers, diy, styling shoots, not ‘inspiration’ photos.
I totally understand that you need some time to take care of your family and I’m sure you will find talented people to collaborate with and write terrific posts.
That said, many bloggers have gone this route in order to grow their site and post 3 times/day. To be honest, I almost never read the short posts written by contributors, I only read what the creator of the blog writes. The short posts are often just so superficial, you forget instantly.
I would rather have 2 posts a week, written by you only as I don’t read blogs daily. But I understand the choices you are making, and I’m sure you will make it work !
Just a quick rec… I love Manhattan Nest (which is not so much about Manhattan anymore). He’s in the midst of renovating his house so writes a lot about the construction/renovation aspect, but also has a great design eye so would be awesome if he did more of those on a site like this. His voice is really great. http://manhattan-nest.com/
Admittedly I’m worried this is the beginning of the end, but I trust not! As others have said, Cup of Jo did this and it’s still fabulous. I think what helped there was Joanna often introducing the guest post-er. That way the reader gets a bit of Joanna’s voice and Joanna-approval…which helps validate the guest post… in my books anyways. All the best in 2016 and congratulations on your cute family!
I’m not sure if you’ll read all of these, but I wanted to weigh in on your closing questions. Mostly because you are SO awesome, but I think you’re stretching yourself thin unnecessarily.
I don’t think the majority of us don’t *want* daily posts. Very few people read only one blog — most of us are subscribed to multiple. (I imagine that, if by any chance have time to read blogs, you do the same.) We don’t have time to read daily posts from multiple blogs. Nor do we have the desire, I would guess. Most folks have multiple interests, and design is just one of them.
The worst thing would be to have watered-down posts landing in our inboxes — to read things just because you’re trying to force yourself into a five-posts-a-week-or-bust cookie mold — not because they’re particularly informative or important. I think you’ll lose readers that way.
We read because of you and how wonderful you are — not anyone else. If I was interested in someone else, I’d read their blog. I think guest posts are great once in a while, but making them a obligatory part of posting seems to be missing the point of why folks are here in the first place.
Quality over quantity! I would follow a set number. Post when YOU think something is worthy of posting. Super-exciting-design-news-extravaganza one day? Post multiple times! Nothing the next day? Fine.
At the very least, I would consider spreading the above out to a smaller number, like three posts a week. Or posting every day but Monday. Five days a week just doesn’t sound like it’s working for you, and I think that’s OK. <3
At the end of the day, you should stay true to what feels right to you. That said, I read your blog for your writing voice.
I don’t mean this in an insulting way, but I didn’t even like your design style for the longest time (although now that you are embracing brown, neutrals and a more sophisticated sense, I do). The stuff about personal life/parenting seems pretty balanced with your projects most of the time and it’s still written with your characteristic charm.
I would so much rather see 3-5 quality posts a week than multiples a day. We live in a world of bombardment and one of the things that is so valuable is someone who can “curate”. I think that goes for selectively blogging as well. Please don’t go for quantity over quality – and be careful of turning over your creation too much to others until you really don’t need it anymore. The boss always manages the shop differently than an employee.
Yes to this!
Two things:
1. If this is moving to a lifestyle blog, we MUST be invested in the other contributors. They are like characters in a story. Why didn’t people go for the assistant’s post during maternity leave? You didn’t sell your assistants. Why does everyone like Orlando? He seems more legit and he is super vulnerable when he writes. He’s a lovesick gay designer in LA who’s been in the industry for a long time. + he’s hot. You’re the cute and attractive down to earth woman with an amazing career/story and balances family/marriage. We’re invested. And whether those women want to admit it or not, your personal/mom posts sell your character and make you relatable. Ease into the transition with style related posts (interior, fashion, make-up, commercial, etc) and sell your characters.
BUT only if you’re a blogger. (see point #2)
2. You need to define what you’re after. If you’re a blogger, get diversity and partnerships/amazing sponsors. If you’re a designer with a blog, get clients and post for portfolio/marketing. If you’re a stylist, go Sweet Paul and start a mag. You’re not just trying to add side dishes, you haven’t decided on what your main course is. I get that you’re eclectic but you need to streamline the business plan, otherwise nobody knows how to give you money.
I’m a long time fan. I’ll bought the book. I’m there. But (and I say this as earnestly and lovingly as possible, but I love people by being a hard ass so please understand) stop asking us what we want and tell us what we want. Once you get clear, your audience will adapt.
ok. love you.
post above 100%!
100% what I was going to say. I work in branding/pr/marketing and have even worked with a lot of the brands you work with.
I remember a year ago you refocusing on more design posts, more design meat. Like you were fighting The urge to go the path of lifestyle blogger.
I definitely recommend business planning, perhaps with some strategists/advisers who are a degree or two outside the blog world. Think about what has Longterm legs- a strong design and stylist career with products, physical and online. Or a lifestyle blog in the already over saturated lifestyle blogging sphere, that has a less certain industry path.
Remember, we all have the much larger My Domaine, popsugar, Brit+co (which started wih the end in mind of DIY women’s lifestyle platform), and then the long long established shelter mags/on lines. Even buzzfeed does some good quick snappy listicals in the decor/design/style realm.
Even if you go the lifestyle blog as the main business route, remember your expertise and what got your audience here- design. Topics could be 80% and 20% fashion and family.
You know what? I say do it. Do it, and I think you’ll feel so much better. I have a 4 year old son and 2 year old twin girls; in addition to mom, I’m an L&D nurse and a childbirth educator. I totally get it. Way too many appetizers. It’s so funny that I’m reading this post (and replying!) because I too feel like it’s high time I had more help. And that’s what I’m doing. Babysitters all around! I love reading your blog, and I’ll love it more knowing mama’s getting the help she needs;). Good luck, and although it has already been some time, congratulations on your baby girl!
Love coming here for your voice and design, but totally understand the need to hire in order to accomplish all that you’d like to do and be a mom at the same time. Follow your passions, I say. It’s what’s gotten you where you are so far, and I’m sure you’ll succeed!
I would love a job! … I have absolutely no qualifications besides a burning obsession with home style and design, adoration for your work, and an arguably decent concept of the English language… I am also a SAHM with one biggish kiddo, one medium, and one babe… It’s cold in MN, so we’re not up to much anyway at the mo, if you have any small somethings you or your team would like to delegate. (Really selling it??) But I’d be willing to contribute for free in spare time I would make! So, yeah. Your work seems like everything I’ve ever dreamed of doing, but I have no idea about how to apply toward any accomplishment. That’s all. Oh, geez.
I am so excited about this!! As a set stylist and decorator, I would love to contribute to such an awesome blog! Check your inbox!! 😉
I think you’re right on, sister! Your gut always tells you the right way to go, and this is what yours is telling you. You are quality, 100%, 100% of the time, and you’ll rock. I’ll be emailing you in the next day or two with my application/idea! XOXO
Eh, just shut down the blog. Maybe it’s time.
I’ve been reading since your Design Star days and loved reading about your styling and design projects plus your more informative posts like how to buy a sofa and hang curtains (apparently your most read from last year).
But ghosting out of your blog to pursue more “partnerships” – meaning paid advertisers – just feels if I’m being honest… kind of gross. The Doctors on Demand thing was especially yucky feeling.
I’ve read your blog because I love seeing a stylist’s work. Stylist with blogger on the side was awesome. Now your job is the blog, so there’s no real projects to show – just lots of sponsored content because that’s how you make money.
It’s fine to say you don’t have the time to blog anymore. Perfectly respectable to stop blogging because you want to do something else or your lifestyle has changed. But this feels kind of like a cheap workaround so you can keep profiting off of the blog.
I have read you since Design Star as well, and I have to say that Liz summed it up perfectly for me.
I agree about Doctors on Demand. Just too much!
Thank you.
Am I the only one this drives nuts? Please fix the site so that the top “banner?” of the page doesn’t hide the content. And a personal voice beats Pinterest and Instagram any day! Love your blog, hate the way the page is set up.
Margaret
Hi Have just discovered you Emily after wandering through the internet trawling for curtain recommendations…thanks the IKEA linen ones are amazing (am in Australia) ….think you are slightly fabulous love your style and your blog…ordered your book .. from Book Depository by the way congrats on your new baby girl …enjoy her …the rest (including your blog) will take care of itself!
I love the idea of additional guest posts. I know you will find amazing people will creative content. But I don’t like the idea of multiple posts on one day. I love coming to your blog everyday knowing there will be one great post to read. If there are multiple or too many it may just become overwhelming and more like a magazine that you just skim through and don’t actually read anything. Anyone else feel that way or just me?
http://www.meowlifestyle.com
Ugh, how to say this? Here it goes… I think you should reexamine the line between you and your brand.
While Emily Henderson the person may “love talking/thinking about careers, beauty, feminism, media, food/drinks, fashion, relationships and parenting…”, I don’t think a design blog is the place to voice your “strong opinions/ideas and advice about all of those things.”. Emily Henderson the brand is about design, not giving martial relationship advice or advicating the new/best way to get your newborn to sleep through the night. Please, talk to family and friends about those things.
If the above topics are a passion so great you want to share them with the world, I encourage you to do so… on another blog.
I would probably still read the blog even if the content changes or you have additional contributors just because your blog has been one of the few that I read daily because I know there will be at least some posts that are appealing to me (as a single non-mother living in New York City in about 300 sq feet of real estate). However I agree with many of the comments already provided that the Doctors on Demand posts (plural!) were a huge departure for you. Everyone understands your affiliation with Target but it’s tolerable because the Target content is at least related to style and design. The Doctors on Demand post were so out of left-field in comparison to the other content.
That being said, I can see the blog needing to evolve but I pray it does not go the way other blogs have gone that I used to read (see, e.g., Young House Love and Cupcakes and Cashmere). Just to use those two as an example (and some may disagree with me or claim that C&C is just a style/fashion blog, but let’s face it, “lifestyle” blogging is really what all of this is) I feel like they became less blog and more self-promotion with extremely watered down content and barely any creativity.
It should speak volumes to you that the highest traffic posts you wrote in the past year were the design mistakes series… that was such a fresh look and what separates you as a stylist/designer, but more importantly I think it highlighted your ability to say what a lot of people are thinking and don’t say – because most blogs have this unrealistic tone that everything needs to be 100% perfect and 100% complimentary all of the time.
I’d love to see more posts on design mistakes, when to splurge/save on certain pieces, how to work with pre-existing “bad” pieces, and I’d also really love you to do a post about the blogs that YOU read. Many blogs have a sort of “blog roll” which I have always appreciated because I’d like to know what you read and the blogs you go to for inspiration.
Hm. I come here because I love your voice and your style. More guests and more posts sounds discouraging because it means I’ll have to sort through to find yours… which means I find myself stopping by less often. I like the Dooce model myself. Posts are infrequent but I know they’re her when I click. : ) Either way your work is awesome!!
More question and answers!
I adore your blog and style – would love to see it stay as it is! Of course there is always room for change and improvement but I’d be disappointed if your blog content included more guest posts and kinda off-topic topics (which I already read other blogs for). Have you considered doing a reader survey to see what your followers want/like?
I’m looking forward to seeing what 2016 brings! Guest posts can be a mixed bag, I know, but I really like learning about new people that way! Especially when the guests are super talented, but not already super well-known. The discovery of new designers and bloggers is so much fun!
for some reason…this post made me hungry.
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The number of hours in a day is finite. Most creatives learn to prioritize everything that maintains the Brand, the reason clients … and reader eyeballs advertisers want … sought you in the first place. It looks like you’ve made a decision to dilute your online Brand by having others post to the blog. You gave a clue about how you handle supervision and delegation when you omitted credits (names of property owners) in your book. Your explanation for the error was a clue about how you handle responsibility for your decisions.
First, I love the blog (including non-design and guest posts) and am excited to keep reading!
I usually prefer quality over quantity when it comes to blog posts. That being said, I really don´t mind contributors and guest posts. The reason I have sometimes stopped reading blogs after they add more writers is not because the writing or content is bad but because it stops being personal.
With so many great blogs and blog content out there the reason to choose one over another is often because you relate to the writer and after “getting to know them” become invested/interested in their work and life.
When a nameless/faceless contributor writes a post referencing their house/partner/child/other job and I don´t what they´re talking about or who they are it makes the whole post less enjoyable.
All this to say that my advice is to let readers really get to know your contributors. Maybe write an introduction/about/background post for each one with a picture of them! I think the reason Orlando´s posts are well received is because he appeared on the blog so many times when he worked with you and by now the long time readers know him and can actually picture what he looks like when his name comes up.
Despite being a loyal reader I can´t say I´d recognize a photo of any of your current team members or know anything about them wich is the main reason I might be less interested in their opinion on the perfect sofa.
So, that´s my two cents. Looking forward to things to come 🙂
Excited about all the new ideas! I have 2 toddlers who share a room and I would love to see more ideas/vignettes for modern fun kids room without the feeling of being in primary color hell.
Surfy, beachy, fun ….
Thanks
I have 2 toddlers who share a room and I would love to see more ideas/vignettes for modern fun kids room without the feeling of being in primary color hell.
Surfy, beachy, fun ….
Thanks
There’s nothing wrong with pulling back a little. You have to do what is right for you. It does seem that the voice of the blog is lost though when bloggers go this route. I must be in the minority when I say no YHL, please. Too forced. Hopefully you can find some who share your passion and drive which jumps off the page, making the change somewhat seamless. Best of luck! I look forward to reading/discovering.
Well since you’re asking…..I would love to see LESS sponsored posts (does anyone else have Target fatigue?). On the other hand I do appreciate you sourcing pretty much every single thing in your styling and makeover posts, which many other designers won’t do. xo
I’ve been such a fan since before Dedign Star was even halfway through … I will keep reading no matter what you post, probably. 🙂 Once, many years ago before you had bazillions of readers, you even came over to my blog and commented on a post. AND I NEARLY DIED. I do prefer posts that you write, but I think that’s natural since it’s your blog. I do think it’s fun to hear from contributors every once in a while too, though.
What I would love most for the blog is to see more ‘real’ home makeovers, done on a budget. I loved the high/low segments you did before. I’d also like to see some smaller footprint homes, 900-1400 sq foot homes that do not have high ceilings, or architectural details, small bedrooms and 1 bathroom homes (where you have to have a tub because your town requires it and you only have 1 bathroom so you can’t remove it) and more kitchens please!!! I know doing smaller spaces isn’t easier to photograph but I see so many blogs with larger rooms and not much I can relate to being that I live in a ranch style home built in 1968, a small living room, not very good lighting in my home at all and all the bedrooms are small…not even 1000sq foot house…but I love it.
I also loved your Lake House before and didn’t know if you would be doing anymore type of retreat homes or vacation homes in the future.
It’s your blog & you can do what you’d like with it. 🙂
As for my personal opinions, they are as follows:
–I enjoy the guest posts from your team. They give insight into the process, in addition to showing that EHD is now bigger than just Em.
–I LOVE daily posts. I just do. (Sometimes I am sad when it’s just a sponsored post, but you need to make an income, so I’m not against it at all.)
–I think it’s a great idea to have more contributors. Delegation is not all bad.
–I like seeing your kiddos & reading about your real life because it shows more of who you are & I think most of us are personally vested in your happiness.
–The only thing I’m not thrilled with is the fashion advice. Ironically, I feel it’s too Em-specific & not generally useful. However, I even feel that the occasional fashion post is fine because I’d bet most people like it more than I do.
Hope my two cents are helpful.
CHANGE is the new BLACK! Get over it peeps. Like, OMG!
Girlfriends Em’?
Great post.This article is very helpful. keep sharing such
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I’m cool with new contributors, but please god don’t give your posts clickbait titles (I see one now – “Four shocking colours from the 90’s that you’ll want in your home right now”). Your way of titling posts is good/fine/great/ain’t baroque. “My Biggest Design Regrets – And What You Can Learn From Them” sounds like a copywriter plucked from Buzzfeed. Eek!
I come here for design but I’m ok with grabbing that extra chocolate on my way out the supermarket aka those other topics because why not? I admire your talent and your unique voice, you’re a great stylist, designer, mother, and only you get to decide what route you want to go. And as a momma of two young kids myself I can not only relate to those parenting posts, but also I also know how hard it is to juggle life as a professional and as a mother and I suppose how hard it must be to keep up with this beautiful huge thing you’ve created. So it’s ok to consider delegating more, every good leader has to, needs to. But do remember what Mies famously said: sometimes less is more. You don’t have to do everything at once even though i can imagine how much pressure there must be when it comes to taking these important decisions, but you can take your time. You have secured yourself so many loyal readers with that fun style of yours, so whatever you do, we’d just like to see it’s Emily approved and has that playful, cool, special thing which is your brand… Think were you came from, you feel like appetizers? cool! bring them on! But give us the buffet sometimes too 🙂 You wouldn’t want your (ridiculously cute!) kiddos to grow up way too fast, same with your lovely blog which is fab! And so is your book by the way. Just keep relevant Emily, stay you! Authenticity is your success!
OK. I never post. But I read this and I decided I wanted to tell you that I luuurve your blog. You are like my best fake internet friend you didn’t know you had. Which makes me sound creepy (which I’m totally not I promise). I used to read SO MANY blogs. But then I just got overwhelmed and realized it was taking all of my time and making me cross-eyed and anti-social. Now you are pretty much the only blog I check. I think it’s because I know I’m going to be SO engaged and interested. I used to love Designlovefest (and others)- but then it became so random I wasn’t interested any longer. I would rather you post a super saavy awesome post once or twice a week rather then twice daily meh posts. But maybe that’s because I am a new mom too and I don’t have unlimited blog perusing leisure time like I used to (tear). So how can we help you make tons of mula so you can have lots of resources to do what you do best and also have lots of free time for your kids? Whatever it is- I’m in!
Emily, just to say I completely trust and support you ! I’m sure this blog will ALWAYS be great.
This post is so important for me 🙂 Thank you admin
I am Doris ALfred,from what I can read. It has been sad news and scam to everyone about Voodoo casters or so. But to me they are so real cause one worked for me not quite two weeks.i met this man on a blog his name is priest Abalaka is a very powerful man.I traveled down to where his shrine his and we both did the ritual and sacrifice.he had no website site, and now me and my ex are living very ok now.I don’t know about you but Voodoo is real;love marriage,finance, job promotion ,lottery Voodoo,poker voodoo,golf Voodoo,Law & Court case Spells,money voodoo,weigh loss voodoo,diabetic voodoo,hypertensive voodoo,high cholesterol voodoo,Trouble in marriage,Barrenness(need a child),Luck, Money Spells,it’s all he does. I used my money to purchase everything he used he never collected a dime from. He told me I can repay him anytime with anything from my heart. Now I don’t know how to do that. If you can help or you need his help write him on (dr.abalaka@outlook.com) i belive that your story will change,or if you have any question you can contact me here as dorisalfred@gmail.com Thank you.
It never was intentionally. I became a prostitute. It was alcohol driven. I was in a lovely and beautiful relationship with Dan. A friend of mine had a celebrated birthday party at the club. We all friends of the celebrant graced the occasion in grand style. Drinks flowed all through the hall in excess. I then was made intoxicated by a so called friend, jealous of my relationship. I was then made to have sex with a paid guy (unconsciously), after which the tape was sent to my boyfriend. I was dumbfounded when he showed me this video. Then he said to me IT IS OVER. I pleaded my life out but it fell to deaf ears. He really meant it. This led to my emotional traumatization… street life, alcohol, drug, and I ended up in bed with any guy that came my way… I think I was a slot. One faithful day, I ran into Dan at the mall, tried to say hello but he angrily rebuked me. I went home and could not get my mind off him, then I decided to do all it was going to take to get him back. Met a lot of councilors, relationship experts and advisers on the internet but to no avail. Luckily for me, at the verge of giving up, I ran into a testimony of a young man who got back his ex-girlfriend through the help of love spell. Reluctantly, I copied out the email of the spell person and contacted him via his email (kenedillitemples AT yahoo DOT com). Miraculously, at exactly 7 minutes after the conclusion of the final rites, I got a call from Dan, begging me to come back to him. I happily did… And guess what… HE PROPOSSED ALREADY. Luckily for you all out there in need of other forms of spell, after my conversation with the great Dr. Kene Dilli, I found out that he also casts spells for; WIN COURT CASE, GET CURED OF ANY KIND OF STD, GET JOB PROMOTION, GET BANK LOAN, TERMINATE DIVORCE PROCESS, GET EX- WIFE/ HUSBAND BACK, GET OUT OF JAIL, GET BUSINESS LINK, and so on.
Hey Emily. Your blog is awesome.
Just wow Emily!!!! no words .
Emily love your blog.
Thanks Emily for your every blog. 🙂 (y)