1. WHAT’S YOUR NICHE? Writing a Food Blog

2. Why a food blog? To promote your brand To publicize your restaurant To inspire invitations (to speak, teach etc.) To make money BUT YOU ALWAYS NEED TO OFFER SOMETHING OF VALUE TO YOUR READERS... “The business of blogging is about providing value. If you’re willing to give to others, blogging could work for you. If you tend to be self-serving, it will be difficult. The best bloggers are consistently trying to help their visitors and are great at creating an atmosphere that’s inviting.” Court Tuttle, Founder & CEO of The Blog BuildersThe Blog Builders

3. What makes them work Regular postings A distinct voice, style Short-ish, fun and really interesting (duh!) Useful or meaningful in some way Interactive with readers Stories...and RECIPES! Photos add HUGE appeal

4. Successful blogs Chocolateandzucchini.com (SCS GWIR 2011-12) Chocolateandzucchini.com http://diannej.com/b/ (SCS GWIR 2013-14) http://diannej.com/b/ Saveur’s 2013 top blog picks:  Notwithoutsalt.com (Best Cooking Blog) Notwithoutsalt.com  Mimithorisson.com (Best Regional Cuisine blog – Manger) Mimithorisson.com  Thugkitchen.com (Best New Blog) *Strong language warning Thugkitchen.com

5. In-class assignment Write your first food blog entry in class... TOPIC: The best holiday meal or dish you ever had – and why.  350 to 500 words (double-spaced)  Include a title (headline)  Email them to me at dsewell@stratfordchef.com dsewell@stratfordchef.com  Put YOUR NAME on the assignment! Marking: Clarity (easy to follow, understand) /10 Level of reader engagement (interesting, fun, informative) /10 Grammar/spelling /5 TOTAL 25 marks