Did you catch episode #321 a few months ago? Well, that show got a lot of attention! That episode gives a deeper dive into the details and http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/benefits-of-blogging-for-business (benefits of blogging for your handmade business).

At the end of that show, I presented a challenge to my listeners.
The Business Blog Challenge
The Challenge: Post a blog article dated after the airing of the episode and tag me over on https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped.com (Instagram). The first 10 people to do so would be the winners – including a prize.

This was all spur of the moment and two things were running through my mind.

First, maybe I should have only said 5 because would there even be 10 people to do this? I mean, it is a big challenge given blogging isn’t something typically connected with product sales.

And second – what would the prize be? But I knew I could wing that.

Much to my surprise, by the deadline date I had 8 people follow through. Which, I have to say, was completely impressive!

And I decided the best prize I can give is to get more eyeballs on their businesses.

Because after all, this is the big value of blogging – visibility to your business. And that visibility isn’t just for the day the article goes up, but ongoing. Evergreen content, if you will. Just like podcasts are.

I also want to note, this is in complete contrast to https://suemonhait.lpages.co/content-for-makers (social media posts). Because those - if you see them at all - are only organically visible for a few minutes to maybe a couple of hours.
Blog Challenge Winners
So, today I want to present to you each of the winners, their business, and the article that won them a spot on this show.

Also, I’m going to share a little about the content in their articles because each one is so different and highlights a best practice or two.

My hope is that this will motivate you to start blogging (again, http://giftbizunwrapped.com/captivate-podcast/benefits-of-blogging-for-business/ (listen to episode 321) to understand why).

And if you’ve thought about it but aren’t sure what you’d write about, these examples will definitely get you inspired and your idea juices flowing.
8 Blog Challenge Winners
To my delight - 3 of these people decided to start a blog as a direct result of this challenge. That makes my heart so happy!
Business: https://www.uniquelymadeformore.com/ (Uniquely Made For More)
Products: Handmade gift baskets
Owner: Michelle James
Blog Post: https://www.uniquelymadeformore.com/post/is-gift-giving-challenging (Is Gift-Giving Challenging?)
Highlights: Michelle chose to blog about one of the needs her business solves - ways to make your gifts memorable and significant to your recipients.

In doing this, Michelle offers value to her readers beyond what her business offers. This is also an article she can link to in emails or social media posts on how to pick the perfect gift.
Business: https://www.ahh-landwomanherbals.com/ (Ahh-Land Woman Herbals)
Products: Handcrafted plant-based remedies for health and home wellness and botanical, organic skincare.
Owner: Gloria Brown
Blog Post: https://www.ahh-landwomanherbals.com/post/what-s-the-tea (What's the Tea?)
Highlights: Gloria's first article is a wonderful initial topic because she shares her personal journey to actually starting her blog. She writes as if it's a letter to a friend - very personable and casual. You'll see - she just draws you in. But she also sets expectations for her readers by explaining what we'll discover when we follow her articles.

Gloria has laid the groundwork for so many topic options along a theme that relates to her products. Which, of course, she can link to text or photos within her blog.
Business: https://www.thegunnyandhiswife.com/ (The Gunny And His Wife)
Products: Modern, high-quality customized decor, accessories, & gifts.
Owner: Lynda Stephens
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