Blogging Behind the Scenes: In depth with BeautySweetSpot’s Jeannine Morris

As you all know, I have been talking to bloggers, publishers, and public relations agents alike to find out what really happens in the world of blogging. Recently, I had a chance to chat with Jeannine Morris, editor-in-chief of BeautySweetSpot. Jeannine has appeared as a beauty and lifestyle expert on E!, CBS, NBC, FOX, and BetterCT.  She has also been featured as an expert in several online publications and blogs such as YoungHollywood.com and LockandMane.com. When she’s not writing, Jeannine works with Women In Need, a New York based charity that helps provide shelters for homeless families.

Q. What made you want to become a blogger?

 Jeannine: I was working in beauty PR when I decided to become a blogger and found myself completely intrigued by social media. I knew the best way to learn it was to become a part of it.  Since I had background in and a passion for writing, I began BeautySweetSpot.com, which was a place I considered my creative outlet.  

Q. How long have you been blogging?

Jeannine: I started blogging in March of 2009.

Q. What is the best thing about being a blogger?

Jeannine: I can honestly say that almost everyday I discover something new that reminds me why I love blogging.  The best thing for me is the relationships I’m continuing to form with very talented bloggers, PR professionals and brands.  I also enjoy exploring the power of social media and blogging allows me to experiment with it in different ways.

Q. What about the worst?

Jeannine: I can’t think of something that I would consider “the worst” thing about blogging, but something that frustrates me would be the people who still don’t get it.

Q. What is your ‘routine’ for researching and testing products?

Jeannine: It depends on what type of product it is or post I’m doing.  If I’m testing new products, I always give them at least 4-6 weeks to “work” before I write a review on them.  I also like to seek out experts to interview about products and treatments such as dermatologists, makeup artists, hairstylists, etc.  At the end of the day, I’m a reporter, not an expert, and even though my readers value and trust my opinions and experiences, I like to give them those of real experts too.   

Q. Will this routine change now that the FTC’s Blogging Rules are in effect?

Jeannine: My routine hasn’t changed and won’t change, but I placed a disclaimer on my blog stating that I do receive some products for free, but my thoughts about them will remain honest.  I also claim that I will call out sponsored posts as they are written.  I think readers value bloggers because they are honest.  If I have to write it out for them, I will.

Q. How do you feel about this ruling? Do you think it’s a necessary measure?

Jeannine: At this point, I placed the disclaimer on my blog and I’m continuing to write as I normally would, always keeping ethics in mind.  What I find controversial about the ruling is that most bloggers are actually honest, while print publications are completely driven by advertisers and they don’t have to disclaim sponsored copy or credits.  I try to avoid the whole online vs. print war, because I respect both sides of the industry, but in the end, blogs aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Q. What do you think the overall effect of this ruling on blogging will be?

Jeannine: I think it’s going to be very difficult for the FTC to try to moderate blogging and am curious to see what happens in 2010.

Q. Where do you see your site going from here? Will there be any new features for us to look forward to?

Jeannine: I’m really excited for 2010, as BeautySweetSpot.com will be adding several new features.  This year’s Man of the Week Wednesday’s were a complete success so I definitely plan on continuing them.  Since I’m blogging full time now I’m anxious to keep building and expanding.

Stay tuned for more interviews – and as always, feel free to send your questions to productpasha@gmail.com.