What Every Blogger Needs With Them

I never leave the house unprepared because you never know when you'll need something related to blogging. Yes, I think of my blog as a 24-hour job ... #BloggerProblems. Whether you're a professional blogger or you're just starting out, there are a few necessities that you should never leave your house without as a blogger!

o n e || notebook

My blogger notebook has everything I could possibly need related to blogging -- blog post ideas, collaborations, to-do list, outfits to wear in shoots, etc. I always bring my notebook with me because you never know when inspiration is going to strike! Out and about at the bookstore and picked up the perfect summer reads that you just have to blog about? Write it down. Shopping and bought the cutest new outfit that you want to show off? Write it down. Some bloggers prefer to write blogging things down in their notes on their phone, but I'm pretty paranoid that one day I'll lose everything on my phone, so I like to keep a physical copy.

t w o || iPhone

This one is obvious, because I don't think a blogger is ever seen without her cell phone #BloggerProblems. I keep my cell phone with me not only for obvious reasons but also to check emails, post on social media, and even snap some pictures to feature on Instagram and/or blog posts.

t h r e e || planner

I keep two planners with me -- my personal planner that I use for school, work, etc. and my blogging planner that I use to write down blog post dates and collaboration deadlines. It's nice to carry this around with me if I have some free time while out (aka sipping my venti iced green tea unsweetened in Starbucks #SorryNotSorry) to sit down and do some planning!

f o u r || camera

One thing I don't have that I am dying to get is a professional camera. However, if I did have one, I would totally bring it with me everywhere because I am always looking to take outfit photos. My boyfriend and I have gone to so many places this summer that are the perfect location for outfit photos, but we're rarely able to take pictures just because the camera quality on an iPhone isn't so great. Having a camera handy is perfect for those spontaneous quick-take-a-picture-beacause-my-outfit-is-super-cute-today-and-this-location-is-awesome moments!

f i v e || business cards

I haven't had the chance to make business cards for Lilly & Lemons yet, but when I had some for Private School Prepster, I brought them everywhere with me -- especially to events meant for bloggers! You never know when you're going to run into another blogger, a reader, or a small local business owner interested in working with you. It's super easy to just hand someone a business card instead of verbally saying all of your information to them!

What do you think every blogger needs to have with them?

How To Rebrand Your Blog

Sharing my thoughts on why you should rebrand your blog got me thinking that I should share how to actually do that. My rebranding process actually took around six months ... it took a lot of thinking and planning because I wanted to make sure that the final result would be perfect.

Rebranding is super easy, but it definitely shouldn't be an overnight thing; or a one-week thing, for that matter. It's a huge step up in the blogging game, but you want to make sure it's all done right!

o n e || come up with a name & check availability

Part of the reason why it took me so long to finally rebrand is I wanted to really love whatever new name I chose. I bounced back and forth between different names until I discovered that I really loved Lilly & Lemons. Make sure you choose a name that describes you and will continue to describe you as life goes on; I know I won't stop loving Lilly Pulitzer and lemons, so that's how I knew this name was right for me! I not only chose this name because I love it and it describes me but because it was available! I could use it for a domain name, and it was available to use as a handle on social media. Having the same name on social media instead of varied ones (I had psprepster on Twitter before and privateschoolprepster on Instagram) was something I really wanted, and I was happy that it could be lillyandlemons all around!

t w o || find a designer

At first I wanted to design my own layout to save money. I messed around on a sample blog for about six hours straight one day ... it was crazy. I liked how it came out for the most part, but there were a few features on the blog that I just couldn't seem to perfect/figure out no matter how hard I tried. More importantly, I didn't totally love my design. I didn't totally love my design for Private School Prepster either, which really made me realize that you should definitely love something before making it official. I decided that hiring a designer would be the best way to go. After searching through Etsy, I found Maru and could not have been happier! Having your blog professionally designed is the best way to go because it looks clean, professional, and impressive.

t h r e e || purchase the domain name

I've been blogging for almost three years, and I didn't get my first domain name until Private School Prepster made the switch to Lilly & Lemons. Buying a domain name at the same time that you start rebranding your blog is a good idea because then your readers can become familiar with both a new web address and a new name all at once. I don't know much about other web hosting, but I used Google Domains just because I love Google and use Blogger -- it's super easy to use!

f o u r || make a new email & social media

I never had a specific email for Private School Prepster; I just used my personal email that I had made years ago. I knew I wanted to get a separate blog email once I rebranded, and I'm so happy I did! It's much more organized and it looks so professional. (Want to know how to make your own email address using your domain name? Read how to do so HERE!) The good thing about social media is it usually lets you change your handle/username. Make sure to change your handle to your new blog name; it's always a good idea to keep things consistent!

f i v e || share the changes

I was really worried that when I rebranded, I would lose a lot of my followers and readers. I made sure to post it all over social media, and I made a post about it on Private School Prepster. And I was thrilled when I installed my domain name because I chose a setting so that when people typed in privateschoolprepster.blogspot.com, it redirected to www.lillyandlemons.com! How cool is that?! It guarantees that anyone who manually typed in my blog address would still be brought to my blog.

Still have questions about rebranding? Email me -- ashley@lillyandlemons.com

#BloggersGetOrganized Giveaway

I was so thrilled with the results that I received from my post on how bloggers organize their blogging life that I wanted to do something more! After a little thought, I decided that a giveaway for a special #BloggersGetOrganized kit would be the best thing to do so other bloggers can really work on staying productive. I stuck to a metallic gold color scheme for the kit and it is seriously so fabulous that I have been so tempted to keep it for myself ... #SorryNotSorry.

Introducing the #BloggersGetOrganized kit ...

o n e || quirky file folders to store any important papers

t w o || day designer to keep track of blog post dates and collaboration deadlines

t h r e e || stickers to decorate

f o u r || colorful pens to brighten up ideas

f i v e || notebook to write down blog post ideas and vital blogging info

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway will end on Monday, August 10th at 12 AM EST. Good luck, ladies!

To-Do List Favorites

Whenever I step into Marshall's or TJ Maxx, the first section I instantly go to is the paper goods section. I've always been obsessed with cute and quirky notebooks and notepads, and these two stores never fail to help me find the most adorable ones.

Although I usually use my to-do list notebook, I've been loving these little notepads to use for short projects! Buying new ones is actually becoming quite addicting ... I love buying them, but I don't think my bank account does!

The notepads say "focus!", "things to do," "dear me...", and "to do list." I love that the lists all have bright colors because adorable office supplies always help me to stay motivated and on task. I can't wait to start using these babies soon, especially with college starting in just under a month!

Where do you like to get cute notepads from?

How Bloggers Organize Their Blogging Life

After completely rebranding my blog and getting the inspiration to start blogging again, I was reminded of just how much work it takes to be a blogger. I'm known to be a type-A gal, so notebooks and to-do lists can be seen all over my desk. I thought it would be super fun to share how I organize my blogging life and ask other bloggers how they organize as well!

Personally, I organize my blog three different ways. I use Google calendar to mark the general post title each day. This is great for when I'm on-the-go and can quickly add or change blog posts for certain days. I have a large planner that I also use to write blog posts for each day along with a couple of notes to include in each post. This guarantees that I don't forget to include certain things in each post. Lastly, I have a notebook that I use to write down everything I need to know for blogging: in-depth blog post ideas, notes for blogger collaborations, blog to-do list, etc. This makes sure I never forget anything having to do with blogging! I also have an email specifically for blogging (see how to make your own here!). This helps me to keep track of emails from companies and other bloggers so they don't get mixed up with junk emails on my personal email.

If you're looking for some tips, feel free to use my idea above or check out what these fabulous bloggers have to give for advice!

“Each quarter, I print out a free printable calendar template for the upcoming three months.  I use a bright colored pen and mark up holidays, major sales, and things going on in my personal life.  From there, I start to plot out what posts will happen on each day.  I write all of it out in erasable pen, and when I've completely finished writing a post and scheduled all of the social media to go with it, I highlight it off on the calendar.  I keep my calendars folded up in a tiny gold and white striped notebook that I keep with me at all times.  I keep a running list of post ideas in the notebook, so when I'm lacking inspiration, I have a list of ideas ready to go!” -Dana, Seersucker Sass

“I organize my blogging life by pre-planning all of my future blog posts on Google calendar and having different colors for published, draft, and idea posts. I also keep a running list of post ideas on Google doc. I always try to keep my email up to date and reply to emails ASAP!” -Katie, Chic in Carolina

“I try to write down blog ideas in the notes app on my phone whenever they come to me during the day. If I decide to schedule a post in advance or I am working with a company, I keep track of post dates in my Erin Condren Life Planner (along with every other detail of my life!).” -Sammy, Preptista

"I don’t organize my blogging life. Despite the fact that it can be conducive to some very hectic nights and frantic last minute posts, I  just cannot find it in me to make an editorial calendar. I’ve learned that inspirations strikes when it does and that I need to capitalize on it when it does. I try to plan each week out to the best of my ability, but typically only do so in my head. If I do anything, it is make a giant to-do list and give myself a set time frame to complete it within. Self-discipline can go along way!" -Jamie, The Fashion Newcomer

"It all starts with my planner! I find it extremely helpful to map out what day I want to write/edit the post, what day I want to take pictures for it, and what day I actually want to post! Seeing as I'm really busy (especially during the summer), setting these deadlines for myself helps keep everything on track! In regards to managing social media for my blog, I make it a point to write down weekly goals in my planner, too (i.e. post once a day, gain xx many followers, etc.). This motivates me to ensure I'm growing my social media presence in addition to my blog! Finally, when writing about all of things related to my blog in my planner, I use a specific colored pen  so as not to get confused with other things I need to accomplish. Being able to visualize how much time I need to spend on my blog by just looking at the one color is super helpful!" -Ciara, The Clumsy Clover

"To organize your blogging life, I think what's initially most important is just to understand what that means to you. I consider my "blogging life" to be a lot more than simply my blog and writing posts for a little spot on the corner of the internet. In fact, my blogging life is everything that isn't attached to my personal brand, or personal life. My blogging life includes Instagram posts, tweets, Pinterest, Snapchat, emails, working on design and HTML codes, creating graphics, researching, scheduling posts, shopping and budgeting, shooting photos, and so so much more. There's a lot of work that goes into my blog, and a lot of behind the scenes activity that I know all bloggers can relate to that isn't 100% visible to a reader but makes such a difference in the outcome of one's blog. When it comes to organizing everything I have to do to make my blog most successful, I would say creating to-do lists and managing calendars are the most important tools I use. I create and categorize lists of tasks that I aim to cross off each day to maintain my blog and the various platforms it stands by, and I find that managing and organizing calendars helps so much to make sure everything is done/scheduled/posted by the date it should be. Organizing my blog and my blogging life is complex and sometimes challenging, but I love doing it because I love to blog, which makes everything so worth it." -Frannie, The Blonde Prep

"Unlike a lot of bloggers I know, I'm not very good at keeping up with calendars and planners. What I do instead is stick to the "Notes" app on my iPhone. Whenever I have an idea for a post, I put it in my Notes. I have different notes for different categories - for example, I have one "note" labeled Fashion Posts, and another labeled Travel Tips. I also keep track of my posts in a separate note where I type in which posts I'll be writing for the week." -Caitlin, Your Typical Prep

"I'm the kind of person who loves the idea of living an organized life, but really has to stress and work to get myself together and check things off my to-do lists. Without planners, calendars, notebooks and bunches of lists my life would be absolute chaos. Not to mention my blog.. Oh goodness, what would my life be like without sticky notes, pens, colorful sharpies, and washi tape in it? My blog would be more all over the place than it already is, for sure! When I organize, I color code and underline the most important things I have to get done, and I cross out things as I finish them so as not to confuse myself when I'm looking back through the to-do's. Another way I make sure things get done for the blog is by listing them EVERYWHERE. I'll write to-do's on sticky notes so that everything I need to get done is BAM right there in my face!" -Cathleen, Classy Cathleen

“I’m a super organized person so when I started blogging I kept my blogging and personal life separated in two different planners. I found that this wasn’t the best way for me to balance the two because of all the other stuff I have to get done on any given day so I decided to have EVERYTHING in one planner! This might drive some people nuts, but it allows me to effectively plan out what I have to do each day. I also keep a smaller planner in my purse at all times since it’s annoying to have to lug around my regular planner, and I just keep the important stuff in it. Appointments, post deadlines, etc. I will use Google Calendars every once in a while when it comes to sharing my schedule with others, but I found that a physical planner works best for me!” -Rachel, Seashells & Sparkles

"I absolutely loving using a notebook to keep my ideas in and Google Calendar. I recently just tried Google Calendar and it has changed my life. I especially love the app you can get on your phone. It makes it so much easier to keep track of your posts. As for my notebook, I bring it everywhere with me. If I don't have my notebook, then I have a section in my notes app on my iPhone specifically for post ideas." -Sophia, California Belle Blog

How do you organize your blogging life?

Why You Should Rebrand Your Blog

What a lot of people don't realize is I actually debated on rebranding my blog for about six months before I finally made the decision to go from Private School Prepster to Lilly & Lemons. I wanted to make sure that I really enjoyed my new name, that it wasn't already taken, and that I could be able to make the whole change possible.

The day that I finally made my blog Lilly & Lemons was definitely a huge step in my blogging career, but it was also one of my happiest blogging moments. I feel as if Lilly & Lemons truly fits me, and I don't regret rebranding at all. If you are thinking of rebranding your own blog, I definitely suggest that you take the plunge and do it for these reasons!

one || it fits you better

People usually think about rebranding when they think their current blog name doesn't fit them anymore. Private School Prepster still fits me; I went to a private high school, and I will be attending a private college. But I see my blog as something that will be continued even after college, and I won't be in private school forever. I have a huge obsession with Lilly Pulitzer and lemons that I know will fit me for life after college, so that's how I knew my new name would be perfect for me! If you decide on a new name for your blog, chances are it will fit you better than your current blog name does.

two || it motivates you

When I was still Private School Prepster, I was so unmotivated to blog. I had no desire simply because I wasn't thrilled with being Private School Prepster anymore, which was actually a bummer because blogging is one of my favorite things to do. When I made the switch to Lilly & Lemons, I felt a huge burst of motivation and inspiration because I loved my new name so much that I couldn't wait to get fresh and exciting content out!

three || it opens up brand opportunities

Rebranding opens up many more brand opportunities. Honestly, I am way happier with my blog now than I was before. My blog has a preppy and cute design, a domain name, and a professional email (which you can find out how to get for yourself here!). I feel as though a rebranding looks a lot better to companies when your design is professional and clean, your blog has its own domain name instead of a .blogspot.com or .wordpress.com attached to it, and your email includes your domain name. It shows that you are legit and take blogging seriously; no company would want to pass that up!

four || it looks professional

I'll admit that my last blog design for Private School Prepster wasn't very professional. I loved the design at first, but then it got real old real fast for me. I didn't want to get a new design and waste money because I knew I wanted to rebrand soon, so I just stuck it out. I'm still so obsessed with how professional yet chic Maru made my little corner of the Internet look! I also think it's professional that I purchased a domain name and have a custom email.

If you are seriously considering rebranding, GO FOR IT! It's a decision you won't regret, and it will totally change your blogging game. Please don't hesitate to email me if you have any questions about rebranding!

Have you rebranded before or thought of rebranding?

J. Crew Sale Picks

It's always impossible for me to turn down a sale, and after the Nordstrom anniversary sale and the J. Crew sale, my bank account isn't going to be too happy with me! J. Crew rarely has good sales though, so it's going to be extremely hard to try to pass this one up. Use the code GOSHOPPING to get 30% off your purchase until tomorrow, 7/20!

What are you planning on getting from the sale?