Why did you start Sequins and Sales?
I started Sequins and Sales because I was a fashion major at a tiny college in south Georgia! I knew in order to compete (let's face it) with students at the top schools, I needed to show that I had something to offer! This blog started as a space for me to share clothing I made, fun DIY's, and thrifted transformations.
Where did you come up with your blog name?
When deciding on a blog name, I knew immediately I didn't want to use my name. The main reason being that Amanda Johnson is so common I would have to have 17 letters and/or numbers included in my domain name! It's such an insanely common name so I wanted to create a brand name that was out of the box.
I started thinking about what I loved most in the world. At the time (and honestly even now) my favorite things were anything that was on sale, and anything that sparkled! I also love names with some alliteration in them so that is how Sequins and Sales was born.
Where are you from?
I was born in Delaware! My sister and I often joke about who was actually born in Delaware (because it seems no one was). I then ended up moving to Augusta, GA when I was 8 years old with my mom and my sister! Now that I have graduated from college, I currently work and live in Atlanta, GA.
How do you take your pictures?
There are a few ways I take my photos!
- With my iPhone 11 Plus (less often).
- With my Canon t7i (most of my in home photos)!
- Having Hannah Lozano take my photos!
What are your tips for starting a blog?
Starting a blog is a very stressful and overwhelming endeavor if you haven't done it before! Through my experience of starting a blog, I have created many posts to help anyone else who is looking to start a blog too. Below are some of the best posts to help you start a blog as well:
How to Create a Blog for Free and Make Money
How to Reach Out to Brands and Secure Partnerships
How to Juggle Working Full-Time and Blogging
Top 10 Places for Influencers to Find Campaign Opportunities
6 Easy Ways to Get Accepted to LIKEtoKNOW.it & RewardStyle
How to Take Quality Instagram Photos Using an iPhone
How did you get accepted to RewardStyle/LIKEtoKNOW.it?
I actually was denied the first time I applied for the platform! It was pretty devastating; however, by following the simple tips I outline in my 6 Easy Ways to Get Accepted to RewardStyle & LIKEtoKNOW.it post, I got accepted the second time! I also outline how to make money using the platform (once you've been accepted) in this post (here).
How do you pitch brands?
When it comes to pitching, I didn't really know where to start. I tried doing it with the marketing/sales skills that I have, but was still coming up short. The course that really helped me change the game when it comes to pitching brands was the BossPitch course by Erica of Coming Up Roses! It was FOR SURE an investment, but I ended up making that money back in just the next month. If you're interested in checking the course out (or purchasing it for yourself), click the link below!
Do you have tips on applying for jobs?
Yes! I have a few career building posts as well as a super in depth recap of my Disney Professional Internship application and interview process. See all of those below:
4 Ways to Use Canva for Your Career
How to Ace Your Interview and Get the Job
10 LinkedIn Career Building Tips
How My Blog Landed Me My Dream Position
Disney Professional Internship Application & Interview Process