Anna McCormack catches up with an influential voice in the city and the brains behind the hugely successful www.mysmallobsessions.blogspot.com.
Why did you start blogging?
My two main obsessions are fashion and writing, so I wanted to do something where I would be my own boss. I didn’t expect it to pick up so quickly.
How did you go about setting up your blog?
I wanted my blog to have a warm, inviting and vintage feel so I hired a graphic designer. The thing with blogging is that there is no guidebook to it and technology is constantly being updated.
For those who don’t know, what is your blog about?
My Small Obsessions is a lifestyle blog all about things like fashion, food, beauty, travel and shopping.
What do you think makes a successful blog?
One that’s updated regularly and that gathers a large number of regular readers. Blogs are like magazines – if they don’t feature interesting or appealing topics they will lose their audience.
Why do you think people are so interested in blogging in Abu Dhabi?
I think Abu Dhabi is quite lacking in the fashion industry in terms of stores and finding great things to wear. Blogs offer inspiration for both men and women to dress fashionably and they teach them how to mix and match brands together. They also help people here find items and know about collections that aren’t sold in the city.
Would you like to go into journalism full time?
I think a full time job in journalism would be a natural progression.
How often do you post?
I try to post every day and at least five times a week.
What sort of response do you tend to get to the topics you post?
Sometimes my readers come up to me and tell me about a post they read which they liked. I like those days.
What other blogs do you recommend we start checking out?
I like The Fierce Diaries and Huda Beauty.
Tell us about the ‘trunk’ shows you organise.
I am attempting to introduce more fashion into the Abu Dhabi scene. This week, I am hosting a summer trunk show where we will sell items from Dubai-based brands. From Abu Dhabi, Pearlesque will be selling vintage costume jewellery. It will be held at my house on May 29 from 10am-3pm. Check out my Facebook page ‘My Small Obsessions’ for more details.
