beautiscoop-blog

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#BeautiScoop|"Beauty and The Brands" with Brittany Thomas of Clumps of Mascara

@clumpsofmascara|Brittany Thomas    

 "Beauty and The Brands": How to turn your blog into a brand that people know and love.

About Clumps of Mascara:

Clumps of Mascara is the largest mascara review archive on the net. Its owner Brittany Thomas doesn't claim to be a beauty guru,but her brand has garnered the attention of Cover Girl, Maybelline, Sally Hansen, Clinique and a host of magazines. In addition to writing reviews on mascaras, she's passionate about food, lifestyle and fashion writing.

Moderator: @tastemakermag

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Here are highlights from #beautiscoop with @clumpsofmascara:

Q1. @ClumpsofMascara is the largest Mascara review archive on the net. Why the focus on Mascara?

A1. Mascara is the one product that most women will buy and wear regularly. Even if you aren't into makeup, chances are you'll rock a mascara from time to time. I also blog about skincare products, lippies, eyeshadow, nail polishes. Even tech gadgets and food.

@Chai_Tee if you've got mascara & lip gloss, you're pretty much set for the day in my book

@ccmanicured It took me so long to get into mascara.The only thing that scared me more was liquid liner. Now I rock both.

Q2. As part of branding, your company/blog name is important. How did you come up with your blogs name?

 A2.  Clumps of Mascara really means "finding harmony with being imperfect".

Q3. With thousands of of beauty bloggers on the 'sphere' how do you remain relevant in the beauty industry?

A3. As a blogger, to stand out, I found it easiest to be myself. I try not to blog too seriously. I want people to read my blog as if they're reading a text or email from a friend. 

Q4. Many bloggers question how to monetize their love for blogging. What tips can you offer?

A4.Bloggers should ALWAYS look outside of blogging to find ways to increase revenue. Blogging alone won't make you rich. Launch an e-book, do freelance writing, host your own events. Turn your blog into several creative money makers.

@Kocoenvy I try to identify w/the fellow beauty lover the way I would want someone to explain it to me...pressure free but informative

Q5. There always seems to be a new tool to use! What are 2-3 tools you us that you feel are vital?

A5. All bloggers should use Twitter. Twitter is great for not only networking with otherbloggers but with brands too. Facebook is great too. But don't just have a Facebook page, use it! Interact with your readers. Engage them.

@AllyW_22 I agree!! Twitter is a great way to meet bloggers. I've made great friends and connections w/ other bloggers!

@Kocoenvy do you have any tips on "engaging" them into interaction?

A5 continued: If you have a FB fan page, post pictures of your lunch, Or ask what lip gloss you should wear. Get your readers talking. Part of being a blogger means being personable. Let people in a bit. 

@Dawnavette it's a great chat :) @ClumpsofMascara is refreshing & love her videos

Q6.You hosted a Pretty Party for @luckymagazine + @Dior this past Friday. How do you get the attention of brands/publications?

A6:I don't just blog. I write for other blogs/sites and hosts events in the community. I go beyond blogging. I think brands/pubs are attracted to bloggers who go above and beyond. Standing out means taking risks. There are millions of bloggers out there. What makes you different? Question WHY a brand/pub should want to work with you. 

Q7. What are some things brands can do to become more engaged with their consumers using non traditional media?

A7. I love brands that respond to consumer tweets and posts. @Zoya_nailpolish and@Maybelline are great at that. And brands are starting to realize that bloggers have influential voices. Which is a BIG deal. 

@RaychelWade so is @laprairie_usa

Q8. Blogs are a great space for advertisers who are looking to be more visible in the digital space, but what are some things you think brands look at before considering you as valuable "retail space"?

A8. Want to be considered for advertising space? Make sure that your blog's layout is easy on the eyes. Keep content updated regularly. Advertisers may not want to work with you if you haven't blogged in 3 weeks. 

Q9. Are blogging conferences really helpful? Why? What are your top 3?

A9. I LOOOOVE blogging conferences. @Beblogalicious is my fav. I've got Blog World on my list. For beauty bloggers, @TheMakeupShow is great for networking, education and meeting with brands. 

Q10. What beauty products are you most excited about, and shouldn't leave home without?

A10. As much as I love mascara, I think everyone needs a good lip balm. Moisturized lips=win. Dry lips=scary.

@afrobella I'm loving your #beautiscoop tweets @ClumpsofMascara-you share so much of your heart and your knowledge. <3 you!

@Chai_Tee I am a certified lipbalm junkie...and proud!!! lol...never leave home without 1...or3 ;)

@peaceloveerika Checked the @ClumpsofMascara blog while shopping for new mascara yesterday...decided to try Lorac Multiplex!

@pearlsandpolish Wow! This is amazing! Just joined but so much good info!

*Today's chat generated 488,089 impressions, reaching an audience of 94,383followers within one hour. 

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