As a blogger, I’m frequently asked how I reach out to both brands and companies. First, I always interact with them on social media so that they’re familiar with Lavin Label before I send any pitch. If you want to learn some tips on my first step, check out our recent post on how to help you land your dream partnership. After I interact with the brand or company, I later send a formalized email that always includes my media kit. This information is not only useful, but also an integral part in securing the sponsorship. So today, I’m sharing the components that I include in my media kit. Also, if you would like to see our media kit, sign up for our email list (right sidebar). We’ll be sending a copy of our template in next week’s newsletter.

Brief Biography. My media kit starts with a short bio that describes who I am and what my brand is about. My first tip is to make sure that you clearly and effectively communicate the pillars of your brand. Are you focused on all things lifestyle? Is your focus on fashion? Exclusively home decor? Clearly communicate what your style is about. By the time someone finishes reading your bio, they should have a clear understanding of who you are and what your brand offers.

Portfolio of your Images. I can assure you that the folks who are receiving your media kit are giving it a quick glance — so capture their attention with your beautiful, professional and inspiring images. I have a small square collage of images in my media kit that instantly relays the look of my brand. Maybe include a square border at the bottom or a few featured images on the first page. These days, everyone focuses on the visual aspect, so this is a very important component of any media kit.

Numbers. Brands and companies that you pitch to want to see your numbers. I’d recommend include the following information:

• Monthly Site Visits
• Number of Followers for Each Social Platform
• Unique Monthly Visitors

Be Honest. Don’t exaggerate any of your analytics. If you’re starting out and you have low numbers, then highlight your social channel that has the highest engagement. Include the number of impressions, average likes, etc. If you have not switched your Instagram account to a business one, I’d highly recommend it. It gives you so much information that helps you make informed decisions.

Reader Demographics.  Potential partners want to know about your demographics. What age are your readers? Where do they live? Are they male or female? We pull all of this information from Google Analytics. If you don’t have an account set-up, make sure to do it ASAP. This is valuable information that you need to know.

Past Partnerships. Highlight the reputable brands that you have worked with in the past. Make sure it aligns with the pillars of your brand that you’ve outlined in your bio. Since my blog is focused on lifestyle, I make sure to include brands that cover all aspects from travel and home decor to fashion and food. I want to demonstrate that I have worked with well established companies that cover a variety of lifestyle topics. Be intentional in the partnerships you’ve highlighted. For example, if you are pitching solely as a fashion blogger, don’t include a skincare line you previously worked with because they want to see your past fashion partnerships.

List Out Your Social Channels. Typically, companies want to know if your brand is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and other social networks. List them out so they know which channels you have a presence on. Even though it may be listed on your website, you don’t want them to have to do any digging–make it easy for them! Be sure to include your handle for each social media channel so they can easily find you. Tip: Use the same handle for all social media channels if you can. It makes it easier for clients and followers to remember and find you! 

Partnership Opportunities. Clearly outline everything that you offer. This is the most important part of your media kit. Do you offer an Instagram takeover? How about sidebar sponsorships? In addition, be specific about what your services entail. How many images do you post during an Instagram takeover? What does a typical sponsored post include? Be specific so they can see exactly what you do for them. Also, include the pricing for each service. We typically include a range because each partnership is different. If you offer additional services, include those too. For example we offer a video component, extended post series, giveaways, on-site events, content creation and more.

Sources. Lastly, include the sources from where you pulled your information, such as reader demographics, page visits, etc. Did you pull the numbers from Google Analytics? WordPress? Instagram Analytics? List out the sources to give you credibility.

Don’t forget – if you want to see a copy of our press kit template, sign up for our email list! Good luck, you’ve got this!!

Kelli Boyd Photography exclusively for Lavin Label