The cutest little oil & vinegar set! 😍 I don’ The cutest little oil & vinegar set! 😍 I don’t know why I’ve never actually had my olive oil out on the counter, especially since I use it every night!! But I guess I just didn’t have a cute enough dispenser for it. So I’m glad I have one now! Do you leave oil & vinegar out on your counters too?! 

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/5bgEK #ltkfindsunder50 #ltkhome #hearthandhandwithmagnolia #hearthandhandfortarget #hearthandhandmagnolia #oilandvinegar #targethomefinds
🌸It’s time to enjoy the beauty of flowers wi 🌸It’s time to  enjoy the beauty of flowers with our Flower Lovin’ Friends!

I just love how my DIY herb garden markers turned out! You may remember, I made these last year and they are still going strong again this year! I love the way they look and I think it really pops inside my herb garden! 🪴 I will share my blog post here which explains more in depth on how I made these markers: https://morningsonmacedonia.com/herb-garden-markers-diy/ 🌱 Be sure to go check it out and let me know what you think below!

Hosts: 
~ Pat @almost3acres
~ Catherine @farmhouse1873
~ Nancy @farmgirlromance
~ Deborah @mymapleleafhome 
~ Debbie @seaside_cottage_couture
~ Christina @touchesoftime_bydesign 
DM a host or @flowerlovinfriends to join the flower tour! 

Featuring guest hosts:

Cindy @tre.vue
Sara @sweetmagnoliasfarm
Christine @dishhappy1
Sharon @decor_ate_with_sharon

See you on 5/21!
#flowerlovinfriends5425 
#herbgarden #gardenmarkers #gardenmarker #plantmarker #plantlabel #diygarden #diygardening
This weekend y’all know that we were in Charlott This weekend y’all know that we were in Charlotte. And there is a little gem hidden nearby called @thedepotatgibsonmill And if you’re a vintage lover like myself, then you’ve got to check it out!! It was literally the biggest antique store I’ve ever been in and filled to the brim with vintage goodies! My mission was to find some vintage patriotic goodies and I think I accomplished that goal!! 🇺🇸 I can’t wait to go back when we have more time and really shop and explore the place even more! If you’re in that area, you’ve got to go check it out my friends! 😉
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#thedepotatgibsonmill #thedepot #gibsonmill #vintagepatriotic #americanadecor #vintageamericana
This weekend on the blog I shared a copycat recipe This weekend on the blog I shared a copycat recipe of Panera’s lemon drop cookies! And they turned out to be delicious of course 😋 You can get the full recipe over on my blog here: https://morningsonmacedonia.com/panera-lemon-drop-cookie-recipe/ 🍪 I just love anything lemon flavored this time of the year, don’t you?!
And I’m using my handy dandy @caraway_home baking sheets here. Which reminds me, today is the last day to have guaranteed shipping in time for Mother’s Day!! And you can use my code “MORNINGS_ON_MACEDONIA10” to get an extra 10% off the already discounted bundles!! Trust me, your mom would love anything from Caraway! They are the best!! 🙌🏻 #CarawayHomeMothersDaySale #carawayhome #lemoncookies #lemoncookie #copycatrecipe #lemondropcookies
Well, this weekend has been one for the books! Not Well, this weekend has been one for the books! Not only did we get to see @codyjohnson live, but we also got to meet my favorite comedian and podcaster this weekend! If you haven’t heard @johnbcrist is absolutely hilarious 🤣 My cheeks hurt from laughing so much!! But all in all it was an incredible weekend and I hope you all had a great one too my friends! 😉
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#netpositive #johncrist #johncristcomedy #codyjohnson #cojo #cojonation #charlottencevents #visitcharlotte
Catch me out here every summer night 😉 I’m lo Catch me out here every summer night 😉 I’m loving how our hot tub deck turned out! It’s been so much fun to sit out here and enjoy the evenings. And of course go for a quick soak in the hot tub too! 🙌🏻 Although, I’ll miss it tonight because we’re headed to see Cody Johnson in concert!! I got these tickets for my husband’s birthday back in January so we’ve been waiting a long time for this 😂 And I can’t wait!! What are y’all up to this weekend??
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#porchgoals #hottubs #hottubparty #firepit🔥 #firepitseason #weekendgoals
If you’re a wax melt lover like myself, then you If you’re a wax melt lover like myself, then you need to check out @antiquecandleco_ 😉 Not only do they have amazing candles, but they also offer these awesome wax melts too! And you can use my code “Macedonia20” to get 20% off these wax melts or anything on their site too! Now’s the time to shop for Mother’s Day gifts too my friends! Especially since they have all their summer scents out right now too!! 🙌🏻

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to shop this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/5cx2F #ltkgiftguide #ltkseasonal #ltkhome
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#waxwarmer #waxmelts #waxmeltsobsessed #waxmeltsofinstagram❤️ #waxmeltlover #waxmeltsaddict #antiquecandleco
Time to make this window box a little better 😉 Time to make this window box a little better 😉 I always love refreshing it for spring! We got this window box from @flowerwindowboxes a couple of years ago and love it! It really makes our house pop I think! I love watching everything bloom and grow during the season! Do you have a window box too?! Let me know 👇🏻
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#windowbox #windowboxwednesday #windowboxes #flowerboxes #charlestonwindowboxes #flowerbox
Since y’all loved my raised garden bed so much w Since y’all loved my raised garden bed so much when I shared it last week, I figured I would share exactly everything I planted in it today! And given that it’s only been about 2 weeks since I planted everything, it’s really starting to take off and bloom already!! I got most of these pretty flowers from @reemscreeknursery and I can’t wait to see it all covered and full of flowers soon too! Do you guys have a raised garden bed?? And if so, what do you like to plant in it?! Let me know below! 👇🏻
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#raisedgardenbeds #raisedgardenbed #flowerbed #flowerbeds #flowerbeddesign
Since I’ve been on a planting spree here lately, Since I’ve been on a planting spree here lately, I figured I’d include my little kitties and plant some catnip for them too! 😹 And I’m so glad I did. Now they love going on the screened in porch even more since they can munch on some catnip now too! 😂 Have a happy Monday my friends!
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#catsandcatnip #catnip #catniphigh #catnipplant #petsafeplants #funnycatsofinstagram
I made the cutest little succulent garden for our I made the cutest little succulent garden for our screened in porch the other day and I just love how it turned out. Plus, it was so simple and easy to make! I got most everything I needed to make it from @loweshomeimprovement too! I shared the full tutorial about how I made it all over on my blog today so be sure to check that out here: https://morningsonmacedonia.com/diy-succulent-garden/ 🪴 Have a happy Saturday my friends!!

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to shop this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/5c99z #ltkhome #lowespartner #diysucculents #diysucculentgarden #succulentgardens #succulentaddict #succulentgarden
We had the best time being tourists in our own cit We had the best time being tourists in our own city this past weekend. As you know, I was off work all last week so I had a little staycation and it was glorious. But, we did spend a whole day in downtown Asheville and had a great date night! First, we stopped at @theblackbirdrestaurant for some brunch and then spent some time strolling and shopping all the stores like @mastgeneralstore and @anthropologie 🛍️ And our dinner at @ukiahrestaurant was amazing! That was our first time going there and it did not disappoint! And of course, we couldn’t end the evening without a sweet treat, so we got some @asheville.chocolate 🍫 All in all, a great date night and great week off. Although, I’m super bummed my staycation is over and it’s back to reality now 😂
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#visitasheville #ashevillenc #ashevillefood #ashevillefoodie #travelasheville #downtownasheville
I’ve got the most exciting news today friends!! I’ve got the most exciting news today friends!! @minkycouture is having a HUGE sale, just in time for Mother’s Day!! You can use my code “CHARITYG” to get 60% off any full priced blanket on their site! Plus, FREE shipping! 🙌🏻 I’m telling y’all, these would make such an amazing Mother’s Day gift. Once you have a Minky, you will never go back! 😉 They seriously are the softest and most cozy blankets ever. Do you own a Minky too?! Let me know below which one is your favorite if so! 👇🏻
I’m loving these outdoor solar lanterns that I g I’m loving these outdoor solar lanterns that I got from @target a few weeks ago! And they look perfect on our hot tub deck! Plus, the light they give off at night is amazing! Perfect for spring and summertime! 

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to shop this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/5bLt6 #ltkseasonal #ltkhome #ltkfindsunder50 #solarlantern #solarlanterns #hearthandhandwithmagnolia
I was a busy bee this weekend getting my raised fl I was a busy bee this weekend getting my raised flower bed all ready for the season! 🐝 After taking a trip to @loweshomeimprovement and getting all the raised bed soil and plants, I was all ready to go! But, I’m so happy with how it all turned out and I can’t wait to see everything fill in and grow throughout the summer! 🌺 And of course I had to get some flowers that attract hummingbirds since little Miss Riley loves to watch them from the office window 😹 So hopefully some will stop by soon for her to see! Do you have a raised garden bed too?? If so, what do you plant in yours?? Let me know below 👇🏻 
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#raisedbeds #raisedbedgarden #lowespartner #raisedbedgardening #raisedflowerbed #flowerbed #loweshomeimprovement
If you’re looking for the perfect summertime tea If you’re looking for the perfect summertime tea, this hibiscus berry tea from @tearunners is definitely it! So yummy and refreshing! Plus, you can snag this tea and any other tea for 18% off today only! So don’t miss out on their delicious, award winning teas! This one is perfect to enjoy while sittin out on the porch too! Use my link in stories to order yours today! 😉
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#tearunners #hibiscustea #hibiscustea🌺 #icedteas #icedtealover
It doesn’t matter how much time I have off, or w It doesn’t matter how much time I have off, or what I do during the time off, it’s never enough! 😂 Anyone else feel this way?! Talk about the Sunday scaries for real. Especially after having the whole week off. I definitely am not looking forward to going back to work tomorrow. I just wanna be a stay at home cat mom 😹 But, unfortunately that doesn’t pay the bills for some reason. Let’s all home that this week flies by at least. Fingers crossed I make it through 🤣
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#aftervacation #aftervacay #aftervacationblues #stayathomecatmom #postvacationblues #postvacationdepression #sundayscaries #endoftheworld
Happy Easter My Friends!! Sharing some pics of Eas Happy Easter My Friends!! Sharing some pics of Easter decor that I never got around to sharing before 😂 But, I hope you all have a wonderful day celebrating our risen Savior! I can’t believe it’s already Easter!! This month sure has flown by! Enjoy the day friends! 💕
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#easterdecorations #heisrisenindeed #easterservice #ᴇᴀsᴛᴇʀsᴜɴᴅᴀʏ #vintageeaster #vintageeasterdecor
Saturdays are for yard work around here! Especiall Saturdays are for yard work around here! Especially now that the weather is much nicer here lately! And we recently got everything mulched too so it’s looking even better! I thought my hubs was crazy having 4 pallets of rocks and mulch delivered from @loweshomeimprovement but it turns out, we do actually need it all to finish everything 😂 I shared all about our mulching and landscaping process over on my blog today so be sure to check it out here: https://morningsonmacedonia.com/front-yard-landscaping-ideas-with-rocks-and-mulch/
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#lowespartner #mulch #mulching #beforeandafterhomeedition #landscapingdesign #loweshomeimprovement #lowes
If you guys are looking for some new bedsheets, th If you guys are looking for some new bedsheets, then you definitely need to check @bollandbranch out! I got the percale sheet set a few weeks ago and absolutely love them! I’m a super hot sleeper so these definitely help me stay cool at night! And they were nice enough to give me a coupon for y’all to use too! Use “Macedonia” to get 20% off anything from their site! And tell me, are you a hot sleeper too?! Let me know below and be sure to give Boll and Branch a try if so!👇🏻

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to shop this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/59Qol #ltkwatchnow #ltkhome #ltksalealert
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#bollandbranch #bollandbranchpartner #bedsheetset #springbedding #springbedroom
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Mornings on Macedonia

DIY, Decor, & More

Lifestyle · October 30, 2020

Things I’ve Learned After Blogging For A Year

Y’all I can’t believe it, but my blog turned a year old on October 26th! I am a few days late posting this, but you know, working full time sometimes gets in the way of my blogging! But I am finally getting around to typing all this up and I figured I would share with you all a few things I’ve learned after blogging for a full year.

I am by no means an expert, and I feel like I still have so, so much to learn. However, I thought I would just try to share a few things in case someone was in the same boat as me.

Things I've Learned From Blogging
This was the very first picture I posted on my Instagram announcing the launch of my blog!

This post contains affiliate links. Click here to read my disclosure policy.

You Need to be Self Hosted

I think the most important thing is that you need to be self hosted if you want your blog to go anywhere. Sure, you can start one for free and not pay anything up front, but then you are very limited when it comes to monetizing your blog later on.

Thankfully, I learned this from the very beginning and I went with Bluehost. They have been great so far and anytime I have a problem or concern with my site, their customer service has been excellent.

You can chat online, call them, or email them with any questions or problems you have and they are really fast to resolve it.

Now, it does cost a little money up front to sign up, but honestly I have made that all back and a little more just from blogging one year!

Which I think is pretty good considering I’ve read it can take bloggers many years before they earn a single penny!

So I think it is definitely worth the investment to be self hosted with your blog! Also, when you break it all down, it’s only about $3.95 a month which isn’t bad at all!

You Need To Be Self Hosted

You Need To Know Your Own Worth

This is another important thing I’ve learned after blogging a year. You really need to know your own worth and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Don’t accept collaborations for just free product only and don’t write a whole blog post for a company if you aren’t getting paid!

Blogging is a lot of work and you should be compensated fairly for your time and effort. At the beginning, I was guilty of doing this because I didn’t know any better.

I am here to tell you that companies are taking advantage of you if they don’t offer some kind of compensation for your work.

Coop Home Goods

So in short, if it doesn’t feel right to you, don’t accept the collaboration. Go with your gut! If you don’t think it’s a right fit, then don’t do it.

And also, don’t be afraid to ask for payment either. I used to be terrified of that as well! But now when I get a collaboration proposal that I am interested in, I always ask and say something like, “Is there a budget for this campaign?”.

That way the company knows I expect to be paid for it.

Ashley Furniture This Is Home - Evergreen

I’m not saying to never accept free product only collaborations, because sometimes that is worth it. For example, I just got a furniture collaboration from Ashley Furniture.

Since the furniture was something that I really wanted, I accepted just that instead of payment. If it is a product you could really use and you were going to spend money on it anyway, then definitely accept it!

This all just goes back to going with your gut and knowing what feels right to you.

You Need To Know Your Own Worth

You Need To Have A Media Kit

If you want to work with brands and make money with your blog, then you need to have a media kit ready to go. You can make this for free off of Canva, or you can pay a few dollars for a template from places like Etsy.

When I first started off, I just made myself a simple free one. But as I have grown, I decided to buy a sharp looking template from Etsy.

I am not too design savvy on Canva so this made it much easier for me to just buy a pre-made template and fill in the info I needed to add.

You can find templates anywhere from $5-$20 too so you don’t have to spend a lot of money on it either.

craft

Also, if you have no idea what a media kit is, it’s basically a resume for your blog and social media. You put all of your stats on there such as page views, visitors, and reader statistics.

You can also add pricing and things you offer from your blog such as sponsored posts and collaborations. My rule of thumb is to have a media kit ready, but don’t send it out to brands unless they ask for it.

Every blogger is different on this, but I like to see what the brand is looking for first before sending out my kit to them.

But, it is very important to have this all ready and keep it updated monthly. That way you don’t have to stress and try to update it all at once when a brand asks you for it.

You definitely look more put together as a blogger when you have a nice media kit available in my opinion.

You Need To Have A Media Kit

You Need To Invest In Your Blog

This is something I wished I learned earlier on. You can’t just magically make money from your blog without investing a little in it at first too.

I tried to make mine the cheapest way possible (and still do honestly lol) but it is totally worth it to invest in a few things here and there.

For example, I spent some money and went to the virtual Haven Conference, and it was 100% worth it. I learned so much from that and there is no way I could have figured all that out on my own.

And, if you’re planning on attending a blogging conference in person, be sure to check out all my tips on what to bring to a blogging conference as well!

I like to try to do things all on my own, but there are just some things you need help with, and for me, blogging was one of them.

It didn’t come to me as naturally as Instagram did so it was nice to have someone there to teach me and learn from. If I took more classes from the beginning, I think I would be further along right now than I currently am.

I am still learning and trying to improve, but it has been such a fun year doing so!

You Need To Invest In Your Blog

You Need To Balance Your Time

After blogging a year, this is a very important thing that I have learned too. Balancing your time is so important. At first, I was trying to pump out 2-3 blog posts a week and literally no one would see them.

But I thought the more I posted, the better it was. And that is not necessarily true. Think quality over quantity. Don’t try to post content if you aren’t really feeling inspired to do so.

Now I just try to do at least one good quality blog post a week. Even then, if I am not feeling inspired, I may just wait awhile before publishing a new post.

There’s always other work that needs to be done on your blog as well such as updating links so it’s not always just writing that needs to be done.

Working full-time too prevents me from doing as much on my blog that I want to do currently, but finding balance is what is so important, that way I don’t get burnt out.

Also, don’t miss important time with family because of your blog and social media. It’s okay to take a break and it’s okay to take a step back.

Do what feels right to you and don’t worry about what other bloggers and influencers are doing right now.

I always try to compare myself to others, and that is not what matters. Stick to being your authentic self and you will see progress from that at your own pace!

You Need To Balance Your Time

Conclusion

So these are just a few things I have learned after blogging one full year. I could honestly go on and on, but I tried to just highlight a few things here and there.

If you have any questions about blogging or anything I could help you with, please let me know! I would love to try to see if I could help you out.

And if your a blogger too, how many years have you been doing it?! Let me know below and if there is any other advice you would give to a newbie blogger as well!

Things I've Learned After Blogging A Full Year
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In: Lifestyle · Tagged: Blogging

About Charity Gentry

I love Jesus, coffee, and home decor. I also love to cook and bake as well as read in my spare time! Follow along with me for all my latest DIY projects and ideas!

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Comments

  1. Maria says

    October 30, 2020 at 9:18 am

    HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO MORNINGS ON MACEDONIA!!!
    My blog too just turned one so I know how hard you work on this. I enjoy receiving your emails with each new blog post. You always post something that is informative, useful, or inspiring. Hopefully we can meet next year at a non-virtual conference!!!!!
    Keep up the good work:)

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      October 30, 2020 at 2:24 pm

      Awe tanks Maria! Happy Blog Anniversary to you as well! I am so happy we connected on here and started around the same time. I enjoy seeing your posts too and I hope we can meet sometime next year at a conference as well! That would be so much fun!

      Reply
  2. Seriah says

    October 30, 2020 at 2:02 pm

    Happy Anniversary ✨✨

    I love what you learned and you provided great insight into what I should do. I’ve been blogging for 3 months and I too realized the importance of investing in the blog and balancing your time.

    I’ve also learned to find a niche, which is pretty important

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      October 30, 2020 at 2:26 pm

      Thank you so much! And yes all those things are so important! Good luck to you and growing your blog in the future!!

      Reply
  3. Serena says

    October 30, 2020 at 3:19 pm

    Thank you for all those advices. I think I will use them. x

    https://www.serenbird.com

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      October 30, 2020 at 5:17 pm

      Thank you. I am glad you found it to be helpful.

      Reply
  4. Kalin says

    October 30, 2020 at 7:43 pm

    This such great advice! I’ve been at it for just over 6 months now and could still use a lot of these tips myself 🙂 Congrats on your one-year mark!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      October 31, 2020 at 2:56 pm

      Awe thanks Kalin! Your blog is beautiful too and it looks like you’ve been doing it for years now too!!

      Reply
  5. Jaya Avendel says

    October 30, 2020 at 8:13 pm

    I love that you share many of the lessons you have learned along your first year blogging! Many of the things you have learned here are things I am still working at. 🙂
    Happy blogiversary!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      October 31, 2020 at 2:58 pm

      Thank you so much! I appreciate that!

      Reply
  6. Britt K says

    October 31, 2020 at 12:31 am

    Happy Anniversary! I know that there are a lot of people in the blogging community that will say NEVER accept a collaboration for just free product. Like you, however, I will accept if it’s something that I really want and was going to spend my money on anyway. Assuming, of course, it’s worth the effort required in the collaboration. There’s a big difference between accepting a $5 product and accepting a $100 product. You need to weigh out the pros and cons in each situation and decide on the best answer for YOU and your time.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      October 31, 2020 at 2:59 pm

      Exactly! I totally agree with that. Thanks so much for reading my friend!

      Reply
  7. Colleen says

    October 31, 2020 at 1:29 pm

    Thank you for sharing this!! I as well as my family have a lot of web experience..im new to blogging, but have been writing for as long as I can remember. I could kick myself for now buying my own domain from the start. A lot of your tips were things I told myself I could wait on to see what happens with my site first, but now I realize (especially so early on) I should take thr plunge now…so thank you for this! I love watching your stories!!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      October 31, 2020 at 3:01 pm

      Awe thank you so much! I am so glad you enjoyed it and found it to be helpful!

      Reply
  8. markstraveljournal says

    October 31, 2020 at 3:35 pm

    Great points! All true! I’ve been blogging for 8 years and enjoy it very much. It certainly has its challenges but I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Happy blogiversary!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      October 31, 2020 at 8:18 pm

      Oh wow! That’s awesome! I plan to continue on blogging too. Hopefully I can learn even more as I go!

      Reply
  9. Liz says

    November 1, 2020 at 2:16 pm

    Happy anniversary to your blog! It’s great to read about your experience and learnings as a blogger. I actually am thinking of doing self hosting too!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 1, 2020 at 8:54 pm

      Thank you so much! You definitely should, there are a lot more opportunities if you do so!

      Reply
  10. Jennifer Marston says

    November 1, 2020 at 2:18 pm

    I will admit, I made a fair bit from blogging before I was self hosted. So it can happen. But self hosting is definitely the best option if you want to take it seriously 🙂 Congrats on a year of blogging!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 1, 2020 at 8:55 pm

      Oh that’s good to know. I always read that it was best to start off that way so I didn’t know any otherwise. But Thank you!

      Reply
  11. Lisa Marie Alioto says

    November 1, 2020 at 2:46 pm

    Happy blogerversary! Great lessons learned and insights!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 1, 2020 at 8:58 pm

      Thank you so much! I really appreciate it Lisa!

      Reply
  12. Robert says

    November 1, 2020 at 3:39 pm

    Some excellent advice, especially for those just starting out. Everyone has their own reasons for blogging and many are under the assumption that they can make a lot of money quickly & easily. Wrong! It takes a great deal of time and effort to be successful. I blog for the enjoyment & interaction with other travelers, but I’m always learning something new each day. Great job! 🙂

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 1, 2020 at 9:04 pm

      Exactly! It’s definitely not a get rich quick scheme lol I enjoy interacting with others too and learning as I go! It’s been a real fun experience so far!

      Reply
  13. Jupiter Hadley says

    November 1, 2020 at 3:49 pm

    Congratulations on making it another year! Balancing time is always a truggle with me.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 1, 2020 at 9:05 pm

      Thank you so much! Yes, sometimes it is so hard to find the time to do everything!

      Reply
  14. Lucy says

    November 1, 2020 at 4:46 pm

    Happy blogging anniversary! You have learnt so much from your first year of blogging which is lovely to see, here’s to more years of Mornings on Macedonia! x

    Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 1, 2020 at 9:06 pm

      Awe thanks so much girl! I appreciate it!

      Reply
  15. Faye says

    November 1, 2020 at 7:40 pm

    Great post! I’m at a point where I need to invest in my blog but it’s daunting going for it! I’ll be doing plenty of research into what area of my blog it is that I want to grow and investing in that area for sure 🙂

    https://www.femaleoriginal.com

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 1, 2020 at 9:08 pm

      Thank you so much! It’s scary to take a leap, but I am glad I did and I will continue to do so!

      Reply
  16. Fransic verso says

    November 2, 2020 at 12:24 pm

    I can feel the struggle of not being able to blog all the time haha. As bloggers, we definitely need all of these. Thank you for sharing it!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 2, 2020 at 11:41 pm

      Yes! It’s hard not to be able to do it as much as you would like to!

      Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 2, 2020 at 11:41 pm

      Yes! It’s hard not to be able to do it as much as you would like to.

      Reply
  17. Kelly Diane says

    November 2, 2020 at 12:49 pm

    Happy anniversary! You’ve mentioned so many helpful tips. I definitely wish bloggers would know their worth and stop accepting things just because its free.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 2, 2020 at 11:42 pm

      Thank you so much! Yes, I wish so too because that makes it harder for all of us who are actually trying to make some money with doing all this work!

      Reply
  18. Karalee Shotola says

    November 2, 2020 at 1:00 pm

    Happy blogiversary! I definitely agree with most of your advice especially that you need to realize your worth & balance your time!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 2, 2020 at 11:45 pm

      Yes that is so important for sure!

      Reply
  19. Johana says

    November 2, 2020 at 1:01 pm

    Thanks for sharing this post, it was very informative! Having a media kit is super important to work with brands and investing in the blog is beneficial to growth.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 2, 2020 at 11:46 pm

      Thank you. I think so too! Very important for sure.

      Reply
  20. JoJo Hall says

    November 2, 2020 at 1:40 pm

    Wonderful post! There’s so much one needs to learn that it can be overwhelming at times when you first start out. But with time and patience things can take a turn for the better!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 2, 2020 at 11:48 pm

      Thank you. It is very overwhelming at first, but I am so glad that I stuck with it!

      Reply
  21. Simone Says GO! says

    November 2, 2020 at 2:14 pm

    Congratulations for making it one year into your blogging journey & thanks for sharing the moment with us! Your thoughts around this being a personal path that we should manage at our own pace & schedule, & in healthy balance with family, friends, life (!) …really resonates with me. Happy anniversary, again, and cheers to year 2!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 2, 2020 at 11:49 pm

      Thank you. I am so glad you found something that resonates with you too! I appreciate the kind words and am looking forward to year two as well!

      Reply
  22. Aimsy says

    November 2, 2020 at 7:27 pm

    Congratulations on a year of blogging…your blog is just fab!
    So many helpful tips in this post, I couldn’t agree more with the self-hosted (although I have a different host), it gives you much more freedom with your blog, doesn’t it? Also the bit about knowing your own self worth is so important!
    Looking forward to seeing what the next year brings for your blog.

    Aimsy xoxo

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 2, 2020 at 11:51 pm

      Awe thanks Aimsy! Yes, self hosting is definitely the way to go and it is always so important to know your own worth!

      Reply
  23. Nic | Nic's Adventures & Bakes says

    November 2, 2020 at 8:38 pm

    Happy first blog anniversary, so many tips that you have learnt over the year it seems, hope you have another great year blogging

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 2, 2020 at 11:52 pm

      Thank you so much! I am looking forward to another year of blogging as well!

      Reply
  24. Brooke Ressell says

    November 3, 2020 at 1:24 pm

    Isn’t it crazy how much you learn the first year? Glad to see I am not the only one who had no idea what I was doing or what I was getting into. You have a beautiful blog so you obviously have learned many marketable skills this past year. Keep up the good work!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 3, 2020 at 10:59 pm

      Yes it sure is crazy! And thank you so much, you have a wonderful blog too! I always enjoy seeing your posts as well!

      Reply
  25. Smelly socks and garden peas says

    November 3, 2020 at 1:29 pm

    Congratulations on the first year! You’ve achieved so much.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 3, 2020 at 11:01 pm

      Thank you so much! I appreciate that!

      Reply
  26. Corinne says

    November 4, 2020 at 3:15 am

    I couldn’t agree more with your post. Before I started blogging, I thought it was all writing and it would be cruisy. I was soooo wrong! Now I work super hard on my blog and treat it like a business.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 4, 2020 at 10:13 pm

      Yes! Treating it like a business is so important!

      Reply
  27. Eleanor says

    November 6, 2020 at 10:28 pm

    I agree, I also think being self-hosted is important to building your blog and it’s definitely helped my traffic and my motivation to stay on top of my blog 🙂 thanks for sharing your thoughts, it’s so interesting to read the lessons other bloggers have learned- and maybe understand a bit more about how to blog more effectively

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      November 8, 2020 at 7:08 pm

      Thank you so much! Yes, I am always interested in reading other bloggers thoughts and tips too because I am constantly trying to improve mine and learn!

      Reply

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About Me

Follow along with me for all things home decor and modern farmhouse style! I also love sharing simple DIY projects and how to style and decorate every room of your house! Thanks for stopping by!



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The cutest little oil & vinegar set! 😍 I don’ The cutest little oil & vinegar set! 😍 I don’t know why I’ve never actually had my olive oil out on the counter, especially since I use it every night!! But I guess I just didn’t have a cute enough dispenser for it. So I’m glad I have one now! Do you leave oil & vinegar out on your counters too?! 

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🌸It’s time to enjoy the beauty of flowers wi 🌸It’s time to  enjoy the beauty of flowers with our Flower Lovin’ Friends!

I just love how my DIY herb garden markers turned out! You may remember, I made these last year and they are still going strong again this year! I love the way they look and I think it really pops inside my herb garden! 🪴 I will share my blog post here which explains more in depth on how I made these markers: https://morningsonmacedonia.com/herb-garden-markers-diy/ 🌱 Be sure to go check it out and let me know what you think below!

Hosts: 
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See you on 5/21!
#flowerlovinfriends5425 
#herbgarden #gardenmarkers #gardenmarker #plantmarker #plantlabel #diygarden #diygardening
This weekend y’all know that we were in Charlott This weekend y’all know that we were in Charlotte. And there is a little gem hidden nearby called @thedepotatgibsonmill And if you’re a vintage lover like myself, then you’ve got to check it out!! It was literally the biggest antique store I’ve ever been in and filled to the brim with vintage goodies! My mission was to find some vintage patriotic goodies and I think I accomplished that goal!! 🇺🇸 I can’t wait to go back when we have more time and really shop and explore the place even more! If you’re in that area, you’ve got to go check it out my friends! 😉
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#thedepotatgibsonmill #thedepot #gibsonmill #vintagepatriotic #americanadecor #vintageamericana
This weekend on the blog I shared a copycat recipe This weekend on the blog I shared a copycat recipe of Panera’s lemon drop cookies! And they turned out to be delicious of course 😋 You can get the full recipe over on my blog here: https://morningsonmacedonia.com/panera-lemon-drop-cookie-recipe/ 🍪 I just love anything lemon flavored this time of the year, don’t you?!
And I’m using my handy dandy @caraway_home baking sheets here. Which reminds me, today is the last day to have guaranteed shipping in time for Mother’s Day!! And you can use my code “MORNINGS_ON_MACEDONIA10” to get an extra 10% off the already discounted bundles!! Trust me, your mom would love anything from Caraway! They are the best!! 🙌🏻 #CarawayHomeMothersDaySale #carawayhome #lemoncookies #lemoncookie #copycatrecipe #lemondropcookies
Well, this weekend has been one for the books! Not Well, this weekend has been one for the books! Not only did we get to see @codyjohnson live, but we also got to meet my favorite comedian and podcaster this weekend! If you haven’t heard @johnbcrist is absolutely hilarious 🤣 My cheeks hurt from laughing so much!! But all in all it was an incredible weekend and I hope you all had a great one too my friends! 😉
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#netpositive #johncrist #johncristcomedy #codyjohnson #cojo #cojonation #charlottencevents #visitcharlotte
Catch me out here every summer night 😉 I’m lo Catch me out here every summer night 😉 I’m loving how our hot tub deck turned out! It’s been so much fun to sit out here and enjoy the evenings. And of course go for a quick soak in the hot tub too! 🙌🏻 Although, I’ll miss it tonight because we’re headed to see Cody Johnson in concert!! I got these tickets for my husband’s birthday back in January so we’ve been waiting a long time for this 😂 And I can’t wait!! What are y’all up to this weekend??
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#porchgoals #hottubs #hottubparty #firepit🔥 #firepitseason #weekendgoals
If you’re a wax melt lover like myself, then you If you’re a wax melt lover like myself, then you need to check out @antiquecandleco_ 😉 Not only do they have amazing candles, but they also offer these awesome wax melts too! And you can use my code “Macedonia20” to get 20% off these wax melts or anything on their site too! Now’s the time to shop for Mother’s Day gifts too my friends! Especially since they have all their summer scents out right now too!! 🙌🏻

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#waxwarmer #waxmelts #waxmeltsobsessed #waxmeltsofinstagram❤️ #waxmeltlover #waxmeltsaddict #antiquecandleco
Time to make this window box a little better 😉 Time to make this window box a little better 😉 I always love refreshing it for spring! We got this window box from @flowerwindowboxes a couple of years ago and love it! It really makes our house pop I think! I love watching everything bloom and grow during the season! Do you have a window box too?! Let me know 👇🏻
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#windowbox #windowboxwednesday #windowboxes #flowerboxes #charlestonwindowboxes #flowerbox
Since y’all loved my raised garden bed so much w Since y’all loved my raised garden bed so much when I shared it last week, I figured I would share exactly everything I planted in it today! And given that it’s only been about 2 weeks since I planted everything, it’s really starting to take off and bloom already!! I got most of these pretty flowers from @reemscreeknursery and I can’t wait to see it all covered and full of flowers soon too! Do you guys have a raised garden bed?? And if so, what do you like to plant in it?! Let me know below! 👇🏻
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#raisedgardenbeds #raisedgardenbed #flowerbed #flowerbeds #flowerbeddesign
Since I’ve been on a planting spree here lately, Since I’ve been on a planting spree here lately, I figured I’d include my little kitties and plant some catnip for them too! 😹 And I’m so glad I did. Now they love going on the screened in porch even more since they can munch on some catnip now too! 😂 Have a happy Monday my friends!
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#catsandcatnip #catnip #catniphigh #catnipplant #petsafeplants #funnycatsofinstagram
I made the cutest little succulent garden for our I made the cutest little succulent garden for our screened in porch the other day and I just love how it turned out. Plus, it was so simple and easy to make! I got most everything I needed to make it from @loweshomeimprovement too! I shared the full tutorial about how I made it all over on my blog today so be sure to check that out here: https://morningsonmacedonia.com/diy-succulent-garden/ 🪴 Have a happy Saturday my friends!!

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We had the best time being tourists in our own cit We had the best time being tourists in our own city this past weekend. As you know, I was off work all last week so I had a little staycation and it was glorious. But, we did spend a whole day in downtown Asheville and had a great date night! First, we stopped at @theblackbirdrestaurant for some brunch and then spent some time strolling and shopping all the stores like @mastgeneralstore and @anthropologie 🛍️ And our dinner at @ukiahrestaurant was amazing! That was our first time going there and it did not disappoint! And of course, we couldn’t end the evening without a sweet treat, so we got some @asheville.chocolate 🍫 All in all, a great date night and great week off. Although, I’m super bummed my staycation is over and it’s back to reality now 😂
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#visitasheville #ashevillenc #ashevillefood #ashevillefoodie #travelasheville #downtownasheville
I’ve got the most exciting news today friends!! I’ve got the most exciting news today friends!! @minkycouture is having a HUGE sale, just in time for Mother’s Day!! You can use my code “CHARITYG” to get 60% off any full priced blanket on their site! Plus, FREE shipping! 🙌🏻 I’m telling y’all, these would make such an amazing Mother’s Day gift. Once you have a Minky, you will never go back! 😉 They seriously are the softest and most cozy blankets ever. Do you own a Minky too?! Let me know below which one is your favorite if so! 👇🏻
I’m loving these outdoor solar lanterns that I g I’m loving these outdoor solar lanterns that I got from @target a few weeks ago! And they look perfect on our hot tub deck! Plus, the light they give off at night is amazing! Perfect for spring and summertime! 

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I was a busy bee this weekend getting my raised fl I was a busy bee this weekend getting my raised flower bed all ready for the season! 🐝 After taking a trip to @loweshomeimprovement and getting all the raised bed soil and plants, I was all ready to go! But, I’m so happy with how it all turned out and I can’t wait to see everything fill in and grow throughout the summer! 🌺 And of course I had to get some flowers that attract hummingbirds since little Miss Riley loves to watch them from the office window 😹 So hopefully some will stop by soon for her to see! Do you have a raised garden bed too?? If so, what do you plant in yours?? Let me know below 👇🏻 
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#raisedbeds #raisedbedgarden #lowespartner #raisedbedgardening #raisedflowerbed #flowerbed #loweshomeimprovement
If you’re looking for the perfect summertime tea If you’re looking for the perfect summertime tea, this hibiscus berry tea from @tearunners is definitely it! So yummy and refreshing! Plus, you can snag this tea and any other tea for 18% off today only! So don’t miss out on their delicious, award winning teas! This one is perfect to enjoy while sittin out on the porch too! Use my link in stories to order yours today! 😉
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#tearunners #hibiscustea #hibiscustea🌺 #icedteas #icedtealover
It doesn’t matter how much time I have off, or w It doesn’t matter how much time I have off, or what I do during the time off, it’s never enough! 😂 Anyone else feel this way?! Talk about the Sunday scaries for real. Especially after having the whole week off. I definitely am not looking forward to going back to work tomorrow. I just wanna be a stay at home cat mom 😹 But, unfortunately that doesn’t pay the bills for some reason. Let’s all home that this week flies by at least. Fingers crossed I make it through 🤣
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#aftervacation #aftervacay #aftervacationblues #stayathomecatmom #postvacationblues #postvacationdepression #sundayscaries #endoftheworld
Happy Easter My Friends!! Sharing some pics of Eas Happy Easter My Friends!! Sharing some pics of Easter decor that I never got around to sharing before 😂 But, I hope you all have a wonderful day celebrating our risen Savior! I can’t believe it’s already Easter!! This month sure has flown by! Enjoy the day friends! 💕
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#easterdecorations #heisrisenindeed #easterservice #ᴇᴀsᴛᴇʀsᴜɴᴅᴀʏ #vintageeaster #vintageeasterdecor
Saturdays are for yard work around here! Especiall Saturdays are for yard work around here! Especially now that the weather is much nicer here lately! And we recently got everything mulched too so it’s looking even better! I thought my hubs was crazy having 4 pallets of rocks and mulch delivered from @loweshomeimprovement but it turns out, we do actually need it all to finish everything 😂 I shared all about our mulching and landscaping process over on my blog today so be sure to check it out here: https://morningsonmacedonia.com/front-yard-landscaping-ideas-with-rocks-and-mulch/
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#lowespartner #mulch #mulching #beforeandafterhomeedition #landscapingdesign #loweshomeimprovement #lowes
If you guys are looking for some new bedsheets, th If you guys are looking for some new bedsheets, then you definitely need to check @bollandbranch out! I got the percale sheet set a few weeks ago and absolutely love them! I’m a super hot sleeper so these definitely help me stay cool at night! And they were nice enough to give me a coupon for y’all to use too! Use “Macedonia” to get 20% off anything from their site! And tell me, are you a hot sleeper too?! Let me know below and be sure to give Boll and Branch a try if so!👇🏻

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#bollandbranch #bollandbranchpartner #bedsheetset #springbedding #springbedroom

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