So you want to be a design blogger? Well, it’s a tough market out there, one in which it’s difficult to stand out. With so many design blogs out there, it truly becomes a case of being able to communicate your own vision and translate your own skills online.
Mochatini, however, does just that.
Its author, Manvi, posts her own personal photographs and styling as well as other lovely things she finds around her. Sounds simple, but the result is a blog where you can ALWAYS find a chic, elegant and inspiring image to kick your inner interior-designer into gear.
Manvi was kind enough to share some of her secrets with us -
Tell us a bit about yourself, where are you from and how and when did you get started blogging?
Hello, RR readers. I am Manvi Drona-Hidalgo from the blog Mochatini. I live in Washington, DC with my husband. We moved here from NYC and before that we were in Dubai, UAE where I worked and went to high school.
When we moved to DC, I started to work in the non-profit sector mostly managing website content and graphics. In 2008, I started to develop a site for my work. I had fun designing the site, logos and banners and decided to create one for myself in the process. Initially, I thought of focusing solely interiors, but soon realized my interests went farther than that. I am constantly inspired by good photography, fashion, and my travels and wanted to include those topics on mochatini as well.
Where did the name “mochatini” come from?
I sort of always had the name mochatini in mind for a future entrepreneurial project. My lil sister calls me mocha and thought why not call my blog mochatini?
How did the blog evolve? Has it changed a lot since you first started it?
I enjoy website development and banner designs, and play around a bit with the look and feel of the site. I am constantly adding plugins and widgets, as well as giving mochatini a fresh look once in a while. So yes, mochatini has changed a lot since I first started it.
Your blog is always so bright and beautiful, what inspires your elegant and sophisticated sense of style?
Thank you. I find inspiration in just about everything around me. Traveling, fashion, flowers, vintage, books, magazines, art etc.
Your feature lots of images including photos taken by yourself as well as others, have you always loved photography and styling?
I have always loved decorating. I used to constantly redecorate not only my own bedroom but also my friend’s bedrooms. I took a course in interior design at NYU, and enjoyed it every class. The course strengthened my love for interior styling and empowered me with some essential skills to pursue a career in it. I enjoy photography immensely too. I spend most of my free time styling and taking photographs.
How do you think design blogs differentiate themselves from the millions of other blogosphere?
I think everyone is different and bring their own unique perspective and style which sets each one apart.
How much of your time is dedicated to blogging, working on ideas and/or posting?
I spend about 3- 4 hours or so on blogging, research, ads, development and emails. When working on original content and photographs, I easily spend more than 8-9 hours.
What do you love most about blogging?
I love talking about my passion, sharing inspiration, connecting with like-minded and the wonderful sense of community.
Any tips for those interested in becoming a ‘design blogger’?
I believe it is important to collaborate and inspire rather than compete with other bloggers. You bring your own unique perspective and sense of style. It might take a while to find your voice and establish your readers, but stay true to yourself. Also, always credit your sources, especially with images.
Other than that, have fun!
Thank you again Manvi for sharing your design blogging knowledge as well as your beautiful images with us! =)
Be sure to check out Mochatini.org in all its delightfulness.
xx
All images by MDH from Mochatini.org
