We’ve undergone a few changes. I’ve always been a bit lax when it comes to selling ad space on Inked. I was really clear when I started this blog that I wanted to retain a tight hold on any advertising space that was up for grabs. I wanted complete control over who was putting their ads on my blog and I didn’t want to overrun my readers with poorly written posts about products and things that I don’t believe in.
None of this has changed.
A few things have however. Money makes the world go around. Like it or lump it… we are all stuck with the reality. I’d rather swap ad space for fresh fruit and veg or electricity or rent or internet or whatever, but until I can find a community (read: happy commune of my dreams) that supports this, I need dollars to support Bo and I and to keep food on our table and gas in our car.
So here’s the scoop. Inked has been hooked up to BlogHer’s advertising network, soon a blue bar will appear at the very top of the screen, it’ll be small and unobtrusive. I did A LOT of research before I decided who to go with. There are a few different ad campaigns around but BlogHer is a wonderful website, it supports women and writing and honesty and truth and love – all things I’m all for. So I’m happy. It’s not obtrusive. It’s simple. It’s not selling sex or drugs or weird things that I don’t believe in. So it’s all good. You’ll forget it’s even there… so will I.
Now, for our sponsors. Things have become a little more “real.” I have signed up to work with passionfruitads who will essentially organise my ad space for me. You pay them, they take a cut and they keep it all neat and tidy and on time. Which is awesome cos neat, tidy and on time is something I’m admittedly shocking at. For now, this is the way we will go until I get my space (read: head space) organised.
For those of you interested in our press kit for advertising purposes, one will be made available in the next week or so. For now you can contact me directly at sash@inkedincolour.com for our latest stats.
These ads are currently open to anyone. Any product. Any company. But there is a catch. I get to veto all ads before you, the reader, ever see them. Tasteful, beautiful ads are important to keeping Inked at the high standard you are used to. Ads that do not meet the Inked in Colour standards will be refunded and will never hit the live homepage.
It’s simple really. And easy… And reliable.
There are three different sizes of ads with some cool new features and options that will help us to help you. Love for love right?? Get in early and get an (even better) deal. You can find all the info on our sponsors page along with links to buy immediately and get your blog/company/product up on our sidebar today!
Now, to celebrate Inked “growing up” (we are ONE year old now after all)… I’m offering a discount of 15% on all ad space for the next week. Just use the discount code THEBIGONE.Ads are open to be purchased today – so don’t delay! Spots are limited!
Oh and if you do want to swap food/electricity/internet/rent/etc for ad space… I’m totally into it. You can still send me an email at sash@inkedincolour.com any time and we can sort something out.
Thank you for your love and patience friends.
xox
DM - I do understand your dilema, but the blog her ad does not just stay on the top of your blog, It appears as a big square and as your reader scrolls down, it follows too until you click it off. It is very annoying. I have really enjoyed your blog, but all the ads just get on your nerves. You are such a talented writer, I am surprised you have to resort to these ads to make money. Bottom line, it sucks and I may have to move on if these ads overtake this wonderful blog. DM
Sash - Thank you for your feedback DM. I appreciate it. That sounds terrible. I have emailed you directly and will sort this out. If it’s causing problems, it will be removed. xx
PN - The great thing about this blog is that we have been able to come along with you on your journey, We’ve shared in your highs, and also felt the burn of your lows. In sharing your newest and rawest challenges recently, you bet i’m all for anything that will help to relieve some pressure and make life even a little bit easier for you and Bo. It hasn’t affected my reading experience at all, The blogher banner stays at the top of the page for me. I will remain an avid reader and supporter of inkedincolour. In my opinion, The banner stays!!
Amy - I haven’t had the problem of the ad following me as I scroll….not sure why its happening to others…I looked on my iPhone & PC and the little unubtrusive blue bar stays put (where I’m assuming its supposed to?)
Ecky - The blue header only appears when I open your blog the first time and it doesn’t follow me when I start to read, I open it from my phone.
Maybe DM has setting that not allow pop ups? Not sure as I don’t have any problem at all.
Btw, I read your blog because I love your writing and honesty, ads or no ads.
Sakinah's Proud Mummy - I’ve no problem with it either, it didn’t follow me.. so, it’s all your decision Sash! π
Elena - Hello Sash&Bo π
I totally understand the reasons behind your decision and the banners don’t bother me in the slightest.
But since I absolutely love your blog and it is beautiful to resonate with another human being even if that is from the other end of the globe (Londoner here :)) I thought I’d say my opinion.
I would say please don’t turn it into something too comercial, a few ads here and there I’m sure it won’t bother anyone and at the end of the day we’re all in this together and should be supportive, but don’t let the blog and your story lose their personal feeling. You have great courage to share your story with the world, to put your soul and heart on virtual page π so I’m sure you inspire many. And at at the end of the day and grounded approach doesn’t heart anyone!
A tight hug and kiss from smoky London! π
Elena
Sash - Nice to hear from you again Elena! I think you’ve been reading Inked for quite some time now… as I’m sure you know by now I’m the absolute opposite to commercial so there is absolutely no fear that it’ll go that way. I don’t allow for paid posts or sales pitches. Just honest sponsorship by likeminded, free trade, friendly companies who are working hard to create good products for good people. Thank you for your kind words! As always, your presence is so welcome here. <3 S
Maggie - Hey Sash, the blue bar stays up the top for me too.
I have no issues with any advertising material you add to your blog.
I open your blog to read your words and your story. If I’m not interested in the advertising material I simply don’t click on it.
Honestly, the blog is about your story, all about you and Bo so the advertising does not affect me in any way whatsoever.
Keep typing Sash, your simply amazing!! Lots of love xx
Sash - Thanks Maggie π I think consensus rules. I’m going to leave the bar up for a couple of months and then reevaluate and see how we are going! Thank you so much for your support… x
Olga - Hi Sash, like you said the money puts food on our tables and we all need it. Blogging takes a lot of time (this is why I don’t do it) editing photos takes a lot of time. You put your time in this blog and time is money. You could use that time to do some freelance writing, and then we all will lose. I think we all read your blog for content and that’s the only thing that you have to worry about. I fully support (and encourage) you to take full advantage of commercializing this blog. You deserve to be compensated for your awesome writing. There are some blogs out where where every other post is about “stuff” β all promoting toy/clothes, food companies and it’s really annoying and nobody wants to read that. But I think for as long as your content is good you can put up tons of ads on this site it won’t matter. Most good things in life are not free (like wine and cheese and flowers and good vacations) but we still choose to enjoy these things and are prepared to pay. Don’t let people tell you that you are a “sell-out” or crap like that. Go-get-er.
PS: the blue bar is tiny β a total non issue.