Mara Ferreira created a community focused on inspiring, educating & supporting women on their path to comfort
BASED IN: CALIFORNIA
Mara Ferreira is no stranger to the online world. In fact, it is within the digital space where her career, as a fashion and lifestyle blogger, has blossomed. What started as a hobby and passion-filled escape soon turned into a full-time career, after Mara took the leap from her job as a fashion stylist/buyer. From world traveling tales to day-to-day fashion hacks, Mara’s LA-based blog serves as a guide, helping women who seek a fashion, health and joy-filled lifestyle. A style maven, Mara has not only curated a fabulous wardrobe but created an entire community focused on inspiring, educating and supporting women on their path towards finding comfort within, while looking dazzling along the way.
What are you most passionate about?
I'm most passionate about my family and friends! They really make life so much more enjoyable. Despite how crazy things can get, time spent with them is always so worthwhile and fulfilling.
What is M Loves M? What is the mission behind it?
I started M Loves M in 2009 when my boyfriend at the time (now husband) and I were in a long-distance relationship. I've always had diaries, and loved that I could journal online through a blog. I documented the trips we took, the recipes I made, and general life thoughts as a young 20-something. Now my site includes personal style, beauty, home, recipes and entertaining, and travel. I hope to inspire women to live a classic and feminine life.
Did you always know you wanted to be a blogger?
Being a blogger was always secondary to my full-time job. I've worked in the fashion industry as a buyer and stylist, and then transitioned into marketing for a shoe brand. I've really enjoyed working in the industry because I've been able to work from the brand perspective.
What helped you take the leap of faith in making M Loves M your full-time job/career?
The support of my friends and family. I've always felt torn between my job in the fashion industry and working on my site. I knew that if I didn't take the leap now, I might never. I'm lucky to still work on consulting jobs for fashion brands, so I still feel like I have the best of both worlds.
Do you have any advice for someone looking to build a business and career within the world of blogging?
With so many people entering the blogosphere on a daily basis, I think it's important to figure out how you can stand apart. Writing about the things that you love and are most passionate about will set you apart from others. Let people see your unique perspective and allow them to fall in love with you and your one-of-a-kind style.
How important is it to build a network within your industry? How did you go about doing so?
I think building a network within the industry can be extremely beneficial. I feel blessed to have so many close blogger friends that I can turn to with random questions. I've met a lot of people in the industry through events, and conferences. Conferences are a great way to learn more about blogging and it will introduce you to others that might be in the same starting out place that you're in.
What is the biggest lesson you have learned as a fashion/lifestyle blogger?
To be proud of being myself. Blogging is such a public forum and you may come across people that don't like how you write, or don't like what you wear. Allow criticism to fall away and don't take it too seriously. As long as you're doing what you love, and you can stand behind it, you have nothing to worry about!
What is the most rewarding part of being a blogger and having a community of followers?
I love that I have friends and readers all over the world. Whenever I travel I know I can count on great recommendations from my local readers. It's always so special when someone comes up to say hi in person too. When you're behind your computer, you forget that there are other people reading. To be able to connect in person takes blogging to a whole other level.
How can women help one another in seeking personal and professional success?
Network and create a group of like-minded women who want to support and help each other. While many of my blogger friend and I do talk about work, we also talk about personal growth and struggles. It's so valuable to have caring women around you that will love and support you.