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www.thoroughlymodernmilly.com

Milly Kenny-Ryder is a singer, fashionista, foodie, arts enthusiast, writer and blogger, living in London “excitedly making the most of this dynamic city”. She began her blog, Thoroughly Modern Milly, in April 2010 and she also writes as a guest blogger for Visit London, Coupobox and as a special columnist for On The Fringe.

What made you decide to set up a blog?

I left university, moved home and realised pretty quickly how difficult it would be for me to get a job in the arts. So I accepted a well-paid administration job in a property company, promising myself that I would continue simultaneously a life in the arts; a blog seemed like a good way to keep that promise.

What are you trying to achieve with the blog? What sorts of things do you blog about?

It began as a creative outlet for me to share my enthusiasms, a diary for everything I am interested in and I hope will interest others. Thoroughly Modern Milly is a blog about music, theatre, art, food, fashion and lifestyle – mostly in London, but sometimes venturing further afield.

Who are your readers? What do think they get out of your blog?

Anyone and everyone. I have readers all over the world, some who I know of, others who are entirely anonymous. Some followers check in regularly, commenting and interacting, others stop by only once. I hope they are inspired and interested by my writing and, most of all, encouraged to go out and experience the things I write about.

What was the ‘aha’ moment that made you realise that this was more than just a hobby?

Strangely, it was at an event where I was given a press badge that said Thoroughly Modern Milly on it, rather than my full name. From that moment on I began to feel more like TMM than Milly, and I knew it was a vocation I wanted to pursue.

You are clearly passionate about blogging. Why do you think small businesses should be considering it? Is blogging right for everyone?

Blogging can be as private or public as the creator wishes; it is a very versatile medium and is growing fast. It is accessible to all, making it a brilliant business tool. I think blogging can be for everyone, if you have the right attitude. It is instant, so is able to instigate or announce trends; it is perfect for modern companies who wish to be of the moment.

Is it possible to make money from a blog? What are the criteria before this can be taken seriously?

Honestly, it is difficult to make money solely from blogging, but it is possible through effective advertising and promoting. There are few criteria; basically more traffic and page views means more money. You are probably more likely to make money by creating a profile from blogging and then going on to write a book.

How does blogging fit in with social media as a whole?

Funnily enough, I still feel very new to the social media world, despite blogging relentlessly for the last two years! I use Facebook and Twitter in conjunction with my blogging and find it immensely helpful to broaden my audience. Social media is evolving so quickly, there is always something new to learn. This is the area I would like to improve, as it can be a great tool for a blogger.

How should someone get started – practically speaking?

I would recommend Blogger or WordPress as blog sites to use. It is very quick and easy to set up the site, so think carefully about a good name, the visuals, design, font, etc. A good camera and reliable computer are a massive help.

What have been the changes you have seen since you started blogging?

I am braver now, more daring. Blogging has taught me to be a reviewer, journalist, critic, photographer, interviewer… and I am constantly learning on the job.

What are your top tips for people starting blogging?

Just go for it. I spent so long umm-ing and ahh-ing. Once I forgot about the daunting prospect of the world wide web audience, it was easy. Try to have a focus and set yourself simple goals; readers like continuity so posting regularly is important.