Amanda Hamman has lived in Columbus for seven years and has been blogging for four. She is the writer behind Girl About Columbus, where she not only shares her passion for her city, but also writes about style, beauty, traveling, and more. Hamman chatted with us about blogging, finding inspiration and what makes Columbus so special.
You've been blogging for quite some time. What made you decide to start blogging?
I started my blog in April 2013 and can't believe I've been doing it now for over four years! I remember reading a local magazine feature about area bloggers and I thought - blogging is a thing? I had no idea. I had always taken an insane amount of pictures, I actually enjoy editing them, and I love the social aspect of sharing photos with others. I remember my friends teasing me in college about how quickly I edited and posted my pictures of my friends and I from the night before. It all made sense to me after seeing that magazine article that this is something I should be doing. This could be my thing, my hobby.
What advice would you give to someone just starting a lifestyle or fashion blog?
I have a lot of advice and have learned a lot in four years, so it's hard for me to condense it down but I would initially ask yourself - why you are wanting to start a blog? What are your goals? If it's to make money, I would caution you against that being your sole motivation. If it's to share your passion, writing, photographs, or to meet new people, then I would say go for it!
You've probably heard it before, but running a successful blog with a lot of followers takes a lot of time. Time to build your brand, your voice. Time to take high-quality photographs. Time to develop your writing skills. Time to learn the ins and outs of running a website. Time to respond to emails. Time to build and be an active voice on social channels, including Instagram and Facebook. Time to find out what your readers love (and what they don't). Time to make mistakes. Time to learn from them. Allow yourself some time to share your passions with others and I bet you will love blogging as much as I do.
Where do you find inspiration for your posts?
Everywhere! I have always been inspired by magazines. I read A TON of blogs. I try to fill my Instagram feed with bright, colorful photos with captions from which I can learn. Pinterest is the best thing ever for keeping my inspirations organized. Nature leaves me inspired, always. Or a good trip to J. Crew usually does the trick, too. :)
You have an entire category on your website dedicated to Columbus. What about the city makes it a special place for you?
I've lived in Columbus for nearly seven years. That's crazy to me! I remember when I first moved here: I was fresh from living in Charleston, South Carolina, and had just completed my Master's Degree. I had spent those years in Charleston exploring every square inch of that place, eating at every restaurant I could, learning about the southern culture. So, moving back to Ohio was a change, but I can't explain it, Columbus just felt like home. My zest to explore was still alive and so I channeled that into Columbus. There were so many exciting things taking place. A new restaurant was opening constantly, the once-sketchy Short North area was flourishing. I got my first dog while living here. I got married here. I got my first job here. I had my first baby here. At this point, Columbus has so many wonderful memories for my little family and I! I have a hard time imagining life anywhere else. Columbus is as big as you want it to be or as small as you want it to be. It's a great city.
How would you describe your personal style?
I like to think my personal style has evolved over the years, from the days where I wore nothing but American Eagle, Forever 21, and Arizona Jean Co. from JC Penney. However, my style is still fuss-free. Quality pieces that won't break the bank. I like things to fit well, feel comfortable, and wear well. I've learned certain brands will not hold the test of time and at this point, I want to wear things that make me feel happy, beautiful, and are cohesive to my daily life. My personal style is classic, relaxed, and feminine with a dash of prep. Basically Jackie Kennedy meets Jessica Alba meets Julia Engel of Gal Meets Glam. I love color but I also wear quite a bit of black, especially in the winter. I also adore a flattering sundress with sandals. But, most of the time, you will find me in jeans, a cute top, and flats.
What is the best piece of style advice you've ever received?
You don't have to buy expensively to have memorable style and, also, dress for yourself to elevate your mood and confidence. My late grandmother definitely comes to mind as I'm sharing these things. She did not have very much money but she was consistent in wearing her best red lip, colorful scarf, and handbag (filled with a million useful things) whenever she went out. She was "fancy" without having to spend very much.
Learn more about Hamman by visiting her blog Girl About Columbus.
