Hi there, curious clicker! Ever wondered how to make money blogging without turning your site into a digital shopping channel? Maybe you want to know what exactly sponsored content is — besides something that may or may not involve yacht parties? 😏🛍️⛵
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Well, let me spill the tea (literally — I drink tea, not coffee). I don’t make money blogging in the “quit your day job and move to Paris” kind of way. 😂✈💰
I do occasionally receive products in exchange for my honest opinion. No scripts, no fakery, just me, my keyboard, and an open mind (and pores). 😌🍵⌨️
Sponsored content doesn’t have to mean selling your soul for some shampoo. Also, learning how to make money blogging doesn’t mean chasing every brand that wants to pay you in exposure and mystery supplements. 😏 ✨ 💸
Some of us blog for fun, some for passion, and some because our cats have heard enough skincare monologues for one lifetime. Hm, this could be me 🙃🐱💅
Well, if you’re thinking about turning your blog into a side hustle, it can be done. It’s super fast and easy. I assure you, it is. 😇🚀✨
No, of course it’s not (sorry), but it is possible with consistency, patience, and a dash of strategy. 😅📆🧠
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make money blogging in real, practical ways — and how sponsored content really works (yacht not included). 😎 🚫🛥️
Everything this seasoned winter chicken shares comes from personal experience, and some from people I know in the Blogging business. Ah yes, plenty of trial and error, and … always with well-moisturized hands. 😁📝🧴
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Part 1: 10 Realistic Tips on How to Make Money Blogging (With Examples)
So, you want to make money with your blog — without becoming a walking ad or losing your joy in the process? Good news: it’s possible. Great news: it doesn’t require millions of followers or secret SEO wizardry. It does take time, consistency, and a bit of business brain. Let’s go.
1. Define Your Niche and Stick to It
Think of your niche as your blog’s “theme song.” It tells both readers and brands what they can expect. The more specific your content, the more specific your audience — and brands love that clarity.
📌 Example:
If your niche is “beauty for mature skin,” then anti-aging skincare brands will know you’re their person. But if you jump from fashion hauls to air fryer recipes to quantum physics... yeah, they might get confused.
2. Build Trust First, Monetize Later
People don’t click affiliate links or trust reviews from someone who feels... salesy. Be honest, transparent, and only promote things you’d recommend to a close friend (or your sarcastic aunt who side-eyes everything).
📌 Example:
“I received this product for free, but all opinions are my own. And if it gave me hives, I’d definitely tell you — probably with photos.”
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3. Work With Brands Through Product Sponsorships
When brands send you products in exchange for content, that’s a foot in the door. It may not be cash yet, but it’s building your portfolio and your relationship with brands.
💬 Pro Tip:
Once you’ve done a few of these, level up:
“Thanks so much for reaching out! My sponsored content rate starts at €___, depending on the scope of the project.”
4. Use Affiliate Marketing (Gently and Honestly)
Affiliate marketing = you earn a small commission when readers buy through your links. It doesn’t cost them extra, and it adds up over time — especially with evergreen content.
📌 Example:
“My Top 5 Budget Lipsticks That Don’t Feel Budget” with affiliate links to Amazon, Lookfantastic, or Sephora. It’s a win-win.
🛒 Platforms to try:
Awin • Amazon Associates • Impact
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5. Create Evergreen Content
Evergreen content = blogposts that stay relevant. Unlike trend posts that expire faster than banana bread hype, evergreen content keeps bringing in traffic — and potential income — for months or even years.
📌 Examples:
“10 Skincare Tips for Women Over 40”
“How to Make Your Makeup Last Through a Hot Flash (Without Melting Into a Puddle)”
6. Add a 'Work With Me' Page to Your Blog
You might not be pitching brands yet, but make it easy for them to pitch you. A dedicated “Work With Me” page makes you look professional — and lets brands know what you offer.
✅ What to include:
- Your niche and audience
- Blog/social stats (monthly views, IG followers)
- Previous collaborations
- Contact info
- Your tone (show your personality!)
💬 Example:
“Want to collaborate? I love beauty, fashion, and saying ‘yes’ to products I’d actually use. Serious inquiries only — no weird detox teas, please.”
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7. Pitch Brands (Even If You’re a Bit Nervous)
You don’t have to wait for brands to discover you. Start small, start local, and reach out with a clear, friendly pitch. Show them how a collaboration benefits them, not just you.
📬 Example pitch:
“Hi [Brand], I’m a fashion & beauty blogger with an engaged audience who loves honest reviews and relatable content. I’d love to feature your [product] on my blog and Instagram. Let me know if you'd be open to working together!”
8. Offer Paid Add-Ons to Free Product Reviews
Already reviewing gifted products? Great! Now give brands the option to boost their exposure with paid upgrades like:
Extra social media posts
Instagram Reels or Stories
Newsletter shout-outs
A giveaway
📌 Example:
“For €40, I can include a Reel and two Instagram Stories with links to the full blog review.”
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9. Join Blogger Networks & PR Platforms
These platforms connect you with brands looking for bloggers and influencers. Some offer paid opportunities, others product exchanges, and most help you grow your experience.
📌 Examples:
LinkPizza (great for Dutch/Belgian bloggers) • The Cirqle • Brandwatch
10. Track Everything and Stay Patient
This isn’t a get-rich-quick game — it’s a grow-slow-and-steady game. Keep track of collaborations, payments, traffic, and what performs well. Celebrate your small wins. They add up.
📝 Track:
Which brands you’ve worked with
Paid vs. unpaid
Clicks, likes, shares
Your own emotional energy (yes, really)
⏳ Reminder:
The bloggers who succeed aren’t the loudest or the flashiest — they’re the ones who kept showing up, stayed authentic, and weren’t afraid to ask for what they’re worth.
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Part 2: 10 Tips on How to Get Sponsored Content (Without Losing Your Soul or Sanity)
So, you're ready to land those shiny, exciting, sponsored gigs? Before you jump in, here's how to attract real brand partnerships — the kind that fit your vibe, respect your audience, and actually pay you (not just in socks... unless they’re fabulous).
1. Grow Your Audience (Slow Growth Is Still Growth)
You don’t need 50k followers. What brands really want? An engaged, loyal audience. Even if it’s small. Focus on community, not vanity metrics.
💬 Tip:
Reply to DMs. Comment back. Be present. That kind of real engagement is gold.
2. Create Content That Looks Sponsored (Even If It’s Not Yet)
If you want brands to pay you for content, show them what you’re capable of — before they even ask. Review products you genuinely love, create style posts, or write tutorials using real products.
📌 Example:
“5 Reasons I Keep Rebuying This Drugstore Moisturizer” = portfolio material they can’t ignore.
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3. Tag Brands in Your Posts (Tactfully)
If you mention or show a brand’s product, tag them. They might notice and re-share — or keep you in mind for future campaigns.
🚫 Don’t say:
“PLZ sponsor me @Brand 😩💸💅🏼”
✅ Do say:
“Still obsessed with this lipstick from @Brand — been using it for two years straight!”
4. Create a Simple (But Professional) Media Kit
Your media kit is your blog’s résumé. It should include:
A short bio
Your niche and audience info
Blog and social media stats
Previous collabs or testimonials
Contact info
🎨 Bonus tip:
Use Canva to make it clean and attractive — no need to hire a designer.
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5. Be the One to Reach Out
Don’t be afraid to send a pitch email. Brands are busy; sometimes they just need someone to say, “Hey, I exist, and I can help!”
📬 Example pitch:
“Hi [Brand], I’m a fashion and beauty blogger who focuses on relatable, honest content with a touch of humor. I’d love to collaborate on showcasing your [product] in a blog and Instagram post. Would love to hear if there’s a fit!”
6. Join Influencer and PR Platforms
These platforms post sponsored campaigns that bloggers and influencers can apply for. It’s a great way to start landing deals — and practicing your pitch.
📌 Examples:
LinkPizza • Join • The Cirqle • Collabstr • Influenster (great for samples)
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7. Keep Your Online Presence Fresh
Brands will Google you. If your last blog post was from the pre-pandemic era and your IG bio still says “new blogger,” you’re missing opportunities.
💬 Tip:
Post regularly — even if it’s short reviews or mini blog posts. Consistency builds trust.
8. Politely Decline Irrelevant or Shady Offers
You will get strange pitches: mystery supplements, no-name leggings, or “opportunities” that pay in exposure. Stay strong.
💌 Your power response:
“Thank you for your message! Unfortunately, this product doesn’t align with my blog or audience. Wishing you all the best.”
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9. Offer Sponsorship Packages (Not Just a Blog Post)
Think bigger than a single blog post. Offering bundled packages shows you’re professional — and gives brands more value.
📌 Example package:
“For €75, I offer a blog review, 3 Instagram images, and 2 Stories with swipe-up links.”
10. Stay Authentic — Always
Your voice is your brand. Don’t dilute your tone, personality, or honesty just to land a deal. Brands that get you will appreciate your style — and so will your readers.
💡 Reminder:
You’re not a billboard. You’re a creator. Be real, be you, and if the socks are ugly — say so (unless they're hilarious... then maybe say yes).
Final Words:
Want to make money and land brand deals? Keep showing up, keep writing from the heart, and don’t be afraid to ask for what you’re worth. Just make sure your hands are moisturized before you type those pitch emails — first impressions matter.
✨ One Last Thing Before You Hit "Publish..."
If you’ve made it this far — congratulations, you now officially know more about blog monetization than 99% of people who think “influencer” is just a fancy word for “free stuff.” 😊🎉💻
Yes, it takes time. Yes, you’ll probably question your life choices at least once while editing a flatlay photo at midnight with a face mask on. 😅🌙📸
But trust me: there’s nothing quite like the feeling of being paid for your passion and getting to write “I got this gifted, but no, it didn’t give me a rash” in complete honesty. 😌💰✍️
So go forth. Blog like the fabulous, opinionated, semi-caffeinated legend you are. ☕️✨👑
Send that pitch. Write that review. Moisturize those typing hands. 📝💅⌨️
And remember: the only thing worse than not getting sponsored... is getting sponsored by a brand that sells vibrating mascara. (Yes, it’s real. No, don’t Google it.) 😳😱🔍
Now excuse this winter chicken while she updates her media kit and eats cookies she told Instagram were “part of a wellness routine.” #sponlife 🍪🤫📱
Got a few extra minutes? Perfect! Dive into more juicy tips, blogging hacks, social media secrets, and daily inspiration over on my Tips - Blogging - Social Media - Inspiration page. Because why stop at good when you can be fabulous? 📚✨🚀
Hope you like my blog.....Until next time.....Have a nice day
Renata (Seadbeady)
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