I don’t often write personal articles anymore, but right now, I feel like I just need to take a moment to tell you all what’s been happening lately – and what’s to come.
Last year on my Instagram, I began to share some book-related posts. It started with random novel recommendations or mentioning a book I was currently reading. This led to requests for more book blog posts, which I also created on a rare occasion. I began to find my love for reading again and was really proud of myself when I finished 30 books throughout the year. I also noticed this trend on Instagram whenever I shared book photos. They usually performed really well and I was getting hits from the hashtag #bookstagram.
I was curious what this whole “bookstagram” thing was about, so I began to do some research (also known as feed stalking). I found some incredible pages and was so excited to realize that there was a huge network of bookworms just like myself who also wanted to talk about their passion for reading – often while posting really aesthetically-pleasing photos.
In January of 2020, I decided on a whim to start my own bookstagram account. I called it The Espresso Edition and I knew from the very beginning what kind of photos I wanted to post. I created a really warm and inviting atmosphere, filled with cozy textures, coffee, and books. I quickly found myself surrounded by an incredibly supportive community who actually took interest in my blog and what I had to offer! It was really exciting to actually feel needed and to see positive reactions to the content I put out there.
For the past few years, I had been feeling uneasy about my She Saw Style Instagram account. I felt forced to post and interact with so many posts that didn’t resonate with me. I had some friends, but they were all following my bookstagram account and cheering me on as I did something I really enjoyed. I had already transitioned my blog to “cozy lifestyle” and realized that my whole blogging brand suited The Espresso Edition far more than it did She Saw Style. I knew it was time for a change.
DEEP INHALE.
This is why, at the end of 2020 and the beginning of 2021, I will be fully rebranding to The Espresso Edition. I’m taking the leap, after 4 years of She Saw Style and 5+ years of blogging. My website will be “under construction” as I begin to prepare for a relaunch – but you can rest assured that I will have a great big announcement post up when everything is officially switched over.
This is such an exciting process for me! I’m nervous and excited (mostly excited) because of what a huge change it will be for my business. It means “losing” my swipe-up feature. It means that brands might not take me as seriously because of a lower follower count. It means that there might be some confusion as I try to re-share old posts. It means… gosh, it means that I’ll finally be satisfied with what I’m doing and that’s worth all the other sacrifices I may need to make for the time being.
I appreciate all of the encouragement as I embark on this new journey. I can’t wait to see what comes next to my little corner of the internet.
Ming Qian says
Hey Stephanie, I am so excited that you are taking this step! Also, I am feeling a little proud that you chose the blog post title I voted for, but that’s just the competitive part of me talking. It is a difficult decision to make after spending so many years building She Saw Style. Not to mention all the technical headaches you will probably have to go through now with this change.
I tried changing my blog theme two weeks ago and I broke some features on my site. I had to restore my last backup, and it scared me from doing anything drastic anytime soon.
So, yes. It is a bold move, it scares me, but it excites me to witness as you take this leap. Can’t wait for what The Espresso Edition may bring!
Stephanie Whitman says
Haha! I appreciate your vote because it certainly helped me come to a final decision.
It’s definitely a big change and there are sure to be some hiccups along the way but more than anything I’m just excited for what’s to come! There are not going to be many changes to the visual aspect on my website, so I’m grateful that I don’t have to deal with any coding. It really can be tricky!
Thanks so much for your constant support!
Dey says
This is SO exciting!! I’m so proud and excited for you. You are so amazing, your content alone is so good and worth taking the time to read. I’ve been following you for some time now, and that’s definitely not going to change now that you’ve found a new passion and a reason to be happy! I’m so happy for you, love! Can’t wait to see what you bring 💛
Jennifer Prince says
Ug! I totally get what you mean! Sometimes social and such can feel daunting when it’s not your preferred content or you’re posting because you “have to.” I know you love to read, and I’m SO excited for you to have found a niche that you love and one that resonates with your audience organically. After all, that’s what we ALL want. I can’t wait to see what you come up with, and I’ll give your book account a follow! <3
Aaryan says
Woo Hoo!!! Congratulations Stephanie 😀 its amazing how far you’ve come with your blogging journey and we instagram fans can’t wait for this new rebranding. Hope this new year brings you a wonderful start in your professional life 😀
Lizzie says
I totally saw this coming and I am so proud of and happy for you! I do love your style though and will miss that but I’m looking forward to more of your book posts because you are really, really great at those! When I think of books, I think of you so you’ve already branded yourself well. I think that sometimes as bloggers, our brand evolves over time or in some instances, becomes something entirely different. That’s okay! That’s part of the process. We are always growing, learning and exploring new possibilities that make ur heart sing. I know that this avenue is going to be very lucrative for you and to be honest, I wouldn’t worry about “low follower count.” I just followed your book account and it looks like you are doing great! Your engagement is off the charts which means that a.) people REALLY love your content and identify with it and b.) that you’re making the right decision. I think this can be aa really strong talking point for brand negotiations as well. You’re going to do great 🙂 Congratulations on your success with SheSawStyle and congrats on your new adventure with The Espresso Edition!! I can’t wait to follow along on your journey <3
Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com
Rach says
This is definitely a bold move but could not be more proud of you!!! I”m so excited to see this change and can’t wait to follow along and see the type of content you will be producing in this space. Congratulations!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
I'm All Booked Up says
Congratulations and welcome to the book blogging community!! We’ve had so much fun sharing our love of books for the last year and a half. We hope you love it as much as we do!
Tanvi Rastogi says
More power to you for doing what feels right and following your instincts. There is no greater joy in breaking the norm when that is where your passion lies. I am so excited to see the changes, new content and where you go from here. Sending you all the positive vibes and well wishes. Happy Holidays!
❥ tanvii.com
Carrington | Chaos and Coffee says
Oh wow, so happy for you!! Congrats on taking this huge leap for your business and for yourself. Can’t wait to see the relaunch of your new site and follow along there!! Xx.
Candace Hampton says
You do have a really warm and inviting atmosphere. Changes can always be something difficult but they are for the better and can be fun. Anything you put your mind to you can achieve and make amazing. I have no doubt in my mind that this rebranding will take you on a new and fun journey! Enjoy the ride!
Kileen says
This is such an exciting transition for you and I’m so excited for you! I think you’re going to do amazing with what you have planned and I’m so excited to see what’s in store for your account! Doing what makes you happiest will always bring the most success.
Melissa says
Congratulations! Nothing like feeling aligned with the content we create. Everything is so much fun and easy. Your photos are beautiful and now I’m following your new Instagram account. I can’t wait to see the new content!
Lovely says
First of all, Congratulations for this transformation! This must be exciting to follow your heart. Good luck with your rebranding. I’m looking forward to your relaunch!
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
Stephani says
Omg congratulations on this new journey!!! So great you found something you love and enjoy and can share with others!! Your photos are so beautiful too!! Good luck with the relaunch!!
Xo, Steph
Anika says
Congratulations! I hope the relaunch is smooth and can’t wait to see the new content 🙂
Anika | chaptersofmay.com
Jenny in Neverland says
Oh my gosh this is SO exciting! I loved your old brand but I’m in LOVE with the coziness of The Espresso Edition. I’m going to be swooning over your Instagram for some time now! Congrats! xxx