EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Jeannine Fehr of Vancity Bride

Jeannine Fehr authors the Ninjamatics' 2011 Canadian Weblog Awards winner Vancity Bride, which placed 1st in Best New Weblog, 2nd in Best Designed, and 3rd in Fashion, Style & Design.


Why blogging? Why did you start blogging, and what drives you now?

I was a budget bride myself. I had a difficult time finding vendors in our price range, and, at the time, there weren't any local resources just for budget brides. I thought, someone should do something about it… little did I know it was going to be me!

The main purpose of the blog is to help brides in the Greater Vancouver area who want something frugal yet fabulous. I considered it a hobby when I started, but, as time went on, I fell in love with the industry, and now I can't stop.

Several things motivate me to keep blogging, and the first is my readers. I love making a positive difference in their wedding planning and getting them all the answers they need to know. Second, I love meeting talented vendors in the industry, both well-known and up-and-comers. Hearing their stories is just so inspiring and allows me to have a better perspective on how the industry works. Most of all, I just love blogging… I've never blogged before Vancity Bride, so I'm really glad I started!



Do you find that people and businesses in the wedding industry in your area like the work that you do through Vancity Bride, or is it difficult to make inroads in such a competitive niche?

I get a lot of positive feedback from brides, readers and people in the industry. Part of my goal is to make brides aware of the options that are available to them, so whatever I write about mutually benefits the readers and the vendors I'm highlighting. The wedding industry in Vancouver is definitely competitive, but Vancity Bride blends in quite well. I have great relationships with many people in the industry, from those just starting out to experienced professionals, and it's important for me to maintain the mutual respect we have for each other.

What are some of the quirkier wedding-related items and events that you've come across?

The best answer for that is the wedding show I attended last month. It's called Indie I Do, and it offers alternative wedding vendors for couples who want something unique. They had bellydancers and burlesque dancers as possible wedding entertainment, a lot of vintage jewelry and accessories, and even Gothic/Rock and Roll inspired wedding gowns. I've been to this show once before I got married, and I knew I had to go again!

If you are feeling less than inspired, where do you look for inspiration?

I find inspiration from the people I talk to, from friends, brides, or those in the industry. I also come up with ideas for articles based on what I would've liked to know when I was planning my wedding. The best articles I write are the ones that are the most informative and offer lots of practical advice. If all else fails, I go to my quiet place and brainstorm.

Are you open about being a blogger? How do people offline react to your online writing?

I am open and proud of my blog, for sure! I know my blog is geared for a certain niche, but those who aren't in that niche still seem to appreciate and support the work that I do, especially since they know it makes me happy.

Are you open about being a blogger? How do people offline react to your online writing?

Only write what you're passionate about. The more you love your topic, the easier it is to be motivated to write. Keeping a calendar with a schedule of your upcoming posts will also help you stay on track and plan future posts. Most importantly, be active on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Trust me, it helps get your name out there and show off your personality!

CHEAT SHEET

Name: Location: Weblog: Social Media: 2011 CWA Winner:

Jeannine Fehr Vancouver, British Columbia Vancity Bride Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and Pinterest 1st in Best New Weblog 2nd in Best Designed 3rd in Fashion, Style & Design

Comments

[grace]

Very inspiring!