When I first decided I wanted to have an online store, I didn't even consider adding a blog (or even gave it a second thought). I didn't know it was an option. I mean what would I even blog about?

But here is my secret confession..I've always been obsessed with blogs and have daydreamed for as long as I can remember of having my very own. I love to read and learn about all kinds of things. I admit that I have stayed up way passed my bedtime reading all kinds of useless (and useful too) information that I find interesting. Yep, I'm that person.

I've been making my own lotions, lip balms, candles, soaps and other things for many years. I have gifted lots of homemade goodies, and have gotten lots of requests from friends and family for more of these handcrafted items. It makes me happy that I am able to help someone I love with a product they are needing and/or wanting!

So it just made sense to have an online store to be able to keep up with orders and continue to do what I love to do.

I realized pretty quickly into my website creating journey that it wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. I did as much as I could. I watched endless "how to" videos, read countless articles (and blogs), and cried thousands of tears lol, but so true.

I did however manage to teach myself all kinds of things along the way, and decided that technology and me could be friends after all. 

It took longer than I anticipated for sure, but I was able to figure out about 90% of designing it-which was extremely important to me. I got my labels how I wanted them to look, wrote my own content and did countless photo shoots. I learned as I went along.

One day I realized that I should probably hire someone just to make sure I had everything in it's correct place. I ended up reaching out to Rob and Lisa at 2 Friends Designs. They tweaked a few things and helped me achieve exactly what I wanted and I learned a lot from them. Many thanks to them!

One evening I was on the phone with Lisa from 2 Friends Designs, and was asking her a million questions. She told me that I should consider having a blog..because, I "have a lot to say". lol. And there are tons of benefits to having a blog when you have an online store. So what did I do?  Naturally, I googled it and read a bunch of articles and blogs about it of course!

I immediately had a mini panic attack just thinking about it. 

Then once I pulled myself together, (in like 3 minutes), I instantly started to daydream and get excited. My secret fantasy of having my own blog was becomig a reality. And honestly, I DO have a lot to say okay? Just saying...

Lisa was kind enough to open that space for me and encourage me to at least consider to write. I didn't have to make it public if I didn't want to. Just dip my toes in. Just write, and see what happens. What's the worst thing that can happen? Maybe I will remember how much I used to love to write? Maybe I will find my niche? Definitely will brush up on my typing speed and accuracy! Total win, win.

Lisa asked me, "If you were to have a blog, what would you name it?" I couldn't answer that question. She "temporarily" named it, "Being Brandi" just to get me started. I mean, It did need a name after all. She also randomly chose a picture that my son designed for me many years ago which made it extra sentimental to me.

I'm not sure what topics I'll write about. Most likely keep it close to what I am currenty creating and selling. Maybe a couple recipes, maybe some funny stories and memories of the Good Ol' Days (when life and people were normal), an occasional "how to-step-by-step" article from time to time, random pictures of my life if I'm feeling brave. Who knows? The sky is the limit.

But for now, "Being Brandi" works just fine.