It was through her blog M-Dashing that I discovered Amy Feezor, a freelance writer and editor, formerly the copy director for Real Simple magazine. Herman Miller and mom.me are two of her clients. Her blog is aptly named after the em-dash, her favorite punctuation mark, of which I also share the appreciation. Her series Menu Board is delightful. She can be found on Twitter: @amyheartsny.
Why did you create a Website of regular entries?
At first, I felt like I needed to understand how to do it to be successful in my then-job, which was at the creative studio at Real Simple magazine. I also needed another creative outlet other than my day job—I wanted my own space to explore the things I love. Honestly, I am so glad I did it. It’s rewarded me with so many opportunities, including the chance to become a full-time freelancer.
What Web-based solution did you select and why?
I started with WordPress, shifted over to Squarespace, and may move back to WordPress again. All of the blogs I’ve worked on professionally use WordPress, and I like the bells, whistles, and metrics it offers.
What is your definition of a good blog
and what are three good blogs that you frequently visit?
For me, it’s about original content and an interesting voice. I am often at Sweet Fine Day, Obvious State, and Manhattan Nest.
Amy’s workspace—chair is the Herman Miller Embody
How do you create content for your blog?
These days, my camera directs the blog posts—if I find something and shoot it, I’ll write about it later.
How do you stay organized and motivated
to contribute to your blog?
I’m organized by nature, and my background in magazines has trained me to anticipate events and holidays way before they happen. My personal blog is in a bit of a transitional stage, so the motivational part for it comes in spurts, like after I receive an email from someone telling me how much it means to them or when I get a jab from a friend saying, “Um, when are you posting again?” (For the record, I am working on launching a second blog, which is why M-Dashing gets quiet at times!)
For those aspiring to make a Website composed
of regular thoughts and/or images, what is your advice?
Just get started. Remember that no one (except your mom) is really reading your blog at first, so you have time to find and refine the look and voice. Write about something that brings you joy. Publish regularly, even if it’s only, say, every Tuesday and Thursday. Don’t compare yourself too much to other blogs—just go through the process and figure out what you want your space to be. Worry about the rest later.
What is your quest in blogging?
Making a connection. Expressing myself. Making art. Having fun.
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Images courtesy of Amy Feezor.
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Typeface of quote is Garamond, originally designed by Claude Garamont (circa 1490–1561) and redesigned (1989) by Robert Slimbach for Adobe.
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Read more of the Design Feast series Blogger’s Quest(ionnaire).
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