HOW TO APPROACH A BRAND

Preparation:
Research the brand and only approach those you truly like and inspire you.

Before approaching a brand try out some of their products, write a post or share a picture so they can see how content would look and how you make things original and unique to you and your social channels.

Email:
Create an email signature. If you have your address, social links and full name easily accessible you make it as easy as possible for the PR.

This is very important, never email a brand straight up asking for stuff. That just doesn't work, or if so, very rarely. Ask to be added to the database and provide a concise list of all of your key information. Blog URL, Twitter, Instagram handle and Follower count (media kits are extremely helpful when done well).

Show some love, with E-blasts and product info alike respond with your opinions and experiences if you're excited. If something takes your fancy see if it's out in the shops, if you snap some pics for your social channels don't hesitate to send to the PR.

When you email asking for products have an idea in mind on how you want to work with the brand - an idea for a post or a picture for example.

Always remember - there's someone behind the computer screen. Be polite, be friendly and never I repeat never spell their name wrong (If someone calls me Laura one more time I am going to go insane)!

Maintain communication:
If you've been lucky enough to receive products from a brand, or you have simply gone out and bought a product that took your fancy it's great to email the PR with links to your posts. If you know you'll be posting multiple tweets or instagrams then bulk together the links to make your communication more succinct.

Posting a snap and an insta story is amazing as it gives you the opportunity to share your routine and your favs with your followers in real time. The negative of this however is that the PR might not have had the chance to view your story before it expires - try and screen shot any posts the brand may be featured in and send over to them with details of the date and social channel you featured them on.

Have you had any trouble introducing and promoting your blog to brands?  I'd love to hear about your experiences in the industry in the comments below.