Blogger Behind the Blog {Kelly Allen Writer}

Here’s this week’s instalment of Blogger Behind the Blog where I interview a blogger all about their reasons for blogging and what it means to them. This week I’m joined by Kelly Allen Writer.

Here’s Kelly with more about her blogging life:

Where did your blog name come from?

I started the blog when I decided to extend and finish my novel, it has grown into a family lifestyle arts and culture blog from there, but the name has stayed the same: Kelly Allen Writer.

When did you start your blog and why?

I started about 4 or 5 years ago and I just kept a diary of events. Since then it’s grown to include reviews and sponsored posts too. I started it as a diary journey of writing my novel and family life.

What did you do before you blogged?

I was training to be a midwife and my Dad died. He inspired me to do the things I love (write!) and spend more time with my children.

What was your first post?

No idea. Probably an introductory post, but I think it’s gone since I’ve moved platforms a few times haha!

What inspires you to blog?

Life, my family and making a living.

What post has had the best response, which post are you most proud of and which post did you enjoy writing the most?

My miscarriage posts had a really positive response, with lots of people appreciating my honesty. Although I didn’t enjoy writing them, they were very cathartic.

Have any of your posts not had the response that you expected?

I never know what to expect, I think you get used to going with the flow when it comes to blogging!

Where do you see your blog in a year’s time?

No idea. I’d like to have more of a ‘following’ and bigger readership, as well as earn a full time wage from it. A girl can dream, right?!

What is your favourite thing about blogging?

Freedom. I can do it all from home and fit it in around home education and other commitments.

…and your least favourite?

Trying to be ‘seen’ in a very saturated blogger world.

What’s the best blog post you have ever read?

Anything by Constance Hall!

What blog do you love to read and why?

Constance Hall; she’s raw and honest and I love her!

Do you do anything differently now to when you started blogging?

So much! I never used to have photos on my posts, or links. I’ve evolved slowly over the past 4/5 years.

Is blogging what you expected it to be?

It’s better.

What’s been your favourite blog collaboration to date?

Anything to do with any of the Cardiff theatres, it’s a pleasure to promote Cardiff’s culture scene.

Are there any brands you would love to work with, why?

London theatres, I think I might cry if I was asked to review!

Have you had any blogging fails so far?

I’ve made mistakes. All I can do is apologise and fix things.

What is your biggest blogging hope, dream or ambition?

I’d like to be recognised as a valid theatre reviewer and maybe work with an online magazine reviewing theatre and film.

What do you do when you’re not blogging?

Spend time with my lovely family!

and lastly, tell us all a random fact about yourself…

I have a masters degree, I think this surprises some people(!).

Now that you know all about Kelly Allen Writer make sure you go and read her blog. Make sure you follow her on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram too. Thanks so much Kelly for being involved!