The Blogger Interviews: Sian Meades
I have no idea how it’s Monday again already, but it is, which an only mean one thing: time for another Blogger Interview. We’re into week four of our interviews and so far we’ve had three people who write largely about London, all be it from a very different viewpoint. This should hardly be surprising given they’re all members of the London Bloggers Meetup. Anyway, you can read the previous interviews here.
Next up we have the irrepressible Sian Meades. I suspect there is very little introduction required for Sian but I’m going to try anyway.
I first met Sian around two or so years ago at one of our Blogger meetups. I always thought Sian was one of the Londonist team, but until this interview I couldn’t say for sure. Perhaps this is because Sian tends to be one of the last drinkers standing at the end of a bloggers meetup, alongside some of the Londonist guys, or it could be because of the sheer volume of online content I know Sian is responsible for.
It’s been a pleasure getting to know Sian, both personally and professionally. I admire her tenacity when it comes to getting projects going, not least in her venture as head slut (I hope it’s OK to call you that Sian) for Domestic Sluttery, a new women’s lifestyle blog. Sian has also been one of the few bloggers to get heckled when speaking at a London Bloggers Meetup, when a friend cried out: “get your t*ts out Sian”. Thankfully she overcame this and carried on talking, great stuff.
Anyway, I won’t bleat on any longer. It’s time to hear from Sian about the ins and outs of her blogging and hopefully some useful tips along the way. Over to you Siany…
1. What’s your blog called and what’s the URL?
I’m all over the internet, but I blog personally at http://www.sianyland.com/ and run the lifestyle website Domestic Sluttery.
2. What’s your blog all about ( in 20 words or less)?
On my personal blog I write about things that make me smile, think, or angry. On Domestic Sluttery I write about interiors, shoes, cake and cocktails.
3. When and why did you start blogging?
I started three years ago, writing for Londonist, I wanted something to do, someone pointed out that they were looking for writers. My first piece was slating Pete Doherty. It was pretty popular.
4. Which blog platform do you use?
I use blogger, because it’s easy to set up (I am not friends with html and webby stuff), but I’m going to move to WordPress at some point. I don’t mind where I blog as long as the page looks nice and the software doesn’t crash.
5. Can you give an example of how blogging has enriched your life?
Well it pays me now. Can I say that? Erm, seriously… I think I’m happier. I need to write.
I’ve met some amazing people through blogging, done some really fun things, and even seen a little bit more of the world.
6. Are there any blogs you recommend reading and why?
I actually just wrote a blog post about this.
There are many more, but they’re the ones I kick off my day with.
7. What three tips would you give to someone just starting out in blogging?
Set up a blog. Sounds crazy but so many people say they want to blog, without trying it first.
Read other blogs. Constantly. It’s the best way to improve.
Write about what you want, not what you think people want to read.
8. If you could change one thing about your blog what would it be?
The Domestic Sluttery design is being tweaked as I type. But blogging-wise, I’m learning to think before I write. It’s easy to get excited about something, but my best posts are the ones I put some thought into, rather than going off on one.
9. What is the key to getting readers to your blog?
Using Twitter helps.
Linking to other blogs.
Replying to comments. I hate it when people don’t reply to comments.
10. And finally, why do you come to the London Bloggers Meetups?
Free beer! Not really. OK, a little bit. But really, I want to hang out with my online friends. I want to meet the people who inspire me online. I listen to talks that interest me, and then have a giggle with some awesome people. And sometimes, even have a bit of a blogging spat.
They’re quite fun too. Bloggers are interesting, passionate people. There’s a common thread that links them, but the people at LBM all write about such different things. You always meet someone new.
Haha, sorry for heckling, but glad it’s still with you! Love you, lady :)
I think it’s fair to say that Sian is the bubbliest person you’re likely to meet at a London Bloggers get-together. Makes me feel guilty for being a bit down when I go along sometimes!
Awww, I didn’t mind the heckling. It was fun to go bright red in front of a room full of people ;-)
As for bubbliest, I’m sure that’s just a polite way of saying tipsiest, but thank you, Londoneer!