Name: Jamie Gall
Email: demetrie1930@gmail.com
Blog Name: Minnesota Girl in LA/MN Girl Baking
Blog Address: http://mngirlinla.com/, http://mngirlbaking.com
Connect with Jamie on Facebook | Facebook | Twitter | StumbleUpon | Pinterest
Share your brief bio:
Jamie is a Minnesota Girl who has landed herself in the big city of LA. Although she resides in LA, that Minnesota will never come out of her. She enjoys photography, baking, art, wine, and learning about new healthy snack options.
Tell us a little about your family.
My family includes my fiancé and my two adoring cats that I love very much.
How do you prioritize time between your family and your blog?
It’s a struggle. Fortunately, when he asks for time I always make sure to give it to him, and also try to include him in fun events around town. He also enjoys being a photographer so often loves being the one taking the pictures at events we attend together.
How do you relax?
How I relax is usually in front of the computer or a long nap. Sleep is always the cure, right?
When did you start your blog?
I started in October 2011
Why did you start blogging?
I found my passion for writing, and was determined to get a writing job. Others recommended that I started a blog, and that’s where my journey began. I had no idea how much of a world it was.
How did you choose your blog name?
I wanted to encompass where I came from with where I was now hence “Minnesota Girl in LA.” I had no idea how much of a conversation starter it would become, or how many people know people in Minnesota or have family that reside there.
What keeps you motivated and inspired to blog?
It’s my passion. The motivation is easy for me it’s what I enjoy to do. I love writing, telling stories and showcasing my photography.
Where do you see your blog and yourself in 5 years?
Oh gosh. 5 years is a long ways away and so much can change. As long as its still keeping me happy that is enough for me.
Biggest life lesson learned since blogging?
The numbers really don’t matter, what truly matters is your passion, and the following you have gained.
What is your secret to success?
Happiness! As long as you’re happy doing what you’re doing, success will soon follow after.
What do you wish someone would have told you when you first started blogging?
Oh gosh, just one thing? Hah. In the end, the numbers just don’t matter. What matters is being genuine and true to who you are.
All bloggers encounter writer’s block. How do you get past this?
I can honestly say that I have not experienced this. My issue is that I have so many ideas in my head with what to write about and never enough time to actually do it!
What has been your sweetest success story?
I count those little moments such as the first time a company I worked with published me on their website to when someone recognizes me at a blogging event to the first time I was pitched something instead of me doing the pitching, etc.
And of course the time I met David Mirassou of Mirassou Wines.. that was a memorable moment in my life.
What has been your most popular posts?
Who are some of your favorite California bloggers that inspire you and that you enjoy reading?
I really admire Ginger from RambleRamble.com and Carolyn from This Talk Ain’t Cheap and Maribel from Stroller Adventures
How long have you lived in California?
It’s been 2 years now. Time flies, doesn’t it?
Where is your favorite relaxation location in California?
I love going to Laguna Beach!
Do you belong to any other social media networks to promote your blog?
Yes: So Cal Lady Bloggers, Collective Bias, Clever Girls Collective, The Sits Girls
Have you attended any social media conferences? If so, which ones?
I attended my first conference last fall with Bloggy BootCamp put on by the Sits Girls. I’m also attending Camp Blogaway this May to learn more food blogging.
If yes to the above ~ What was the most helpful thing that you have learned from attending a conference?
It’s all about networking! And just those little tidbits of information that is shared.
Share your favorite quote or inspirational thought:
“If you love something, set it free. If it comes back its yours, if not it wasn’t meant to be.”
Tell us something that most people would be surprised to learn about you.
I am left handed =)
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I love blogging, the people I have met along the way and just sharing my journey and experiences with the world. It has made me a better writer, a better person, and overall, helped me to embrace life a whole lot more.
Do you send out a monthly newsletter? How can we get on your mailing list if we are interested in more information?
You can subscribe to the blog by going to http://mngirlinla.com.
Cute interview/ bio! I love laguna beach too!!