Today we’d like to introduce you to Becky Branch.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started a blog called The Java Mama almost 13 years ago. This was before Twitter, Instagram, or Pinterest mind you. I am originally from Arkansas, so I started my website as a way to keep family and friends updated after we moved to Texas in 2007. Over the years people began to read it, and I’ve made so many new friendships and had many great opportunities because of my little website. The name “The Java Mama” also sparked because of my undying love for coffee and sharing all things coffee related.
I also do portrait photography on the weekends and work part-time as a finance manager for a Dental Implant Center in Colleyville, TX.
I’ve been married over 17 years to my best friend, Terence. Together we have an 8-year-old son, Connor. We also adopted a french bulldog name Hemi who is the best blog ever. You’ll see a lot of them on my Instagram account at www.instagram.com/thejavamama
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would say we all have hills and valleys. I’ve got so busy some days that the LAST thing I want to do when I get home is write a blog post about my day. I go through writing slumps just like everyone else. In the beginning, people actually commented on blogs…now social media is so much more “INSTANT” Also, people are very visual. Instagram is a great tool because it’s just pictures and Insta-stories are just 15 seconds long, which is perfect for people who just have a minute to log on….and people with short attention spans! I think more brands are migrating to what we call “micro-blogging.” I do think it’s great to still have a website to lead your readers back to where you can go into more depth on a subject.
I get asked a lot “How do I start a blog?” or “How can I make money blogging?”
To be honest, you just have to work at it. You get what you put into it. Hashtag everything! That’s how brands will find you on social media. As far as starting a blog, I started out on www.blogger.com, and it’s a free platform you can use to start and dip your toes into blogging before investing in a self-hosted website. That is when it can get pricey. Not everyone goes viral overnight. You have to think outside the box. Focus on your writing skills and investing in a good camera is a good idea. Most importantly- be authentic.
Please tell us about The Java Mama.
Well, I’ve done this whole “blogging” thing before blogging was a thing…
I’m proud of staying true to my voice. I have always been a very creative and right-brained person. Blogging and my photography business are a great outlet for me to express my creativity and share with others. One thing I do know is you never know who’s watching. Put your best work out there, and you will be surprised what can happen!
Remain positive and upbeat. Don’t compare yourself to others doing the same thing. That will only bring you down a notch. Everyone has their own voice and perspective…show yours!
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
We live in a day and age where women are breaking barriers every day. That is awesome to see how far we’ve come! I still think women have to try a little harder to get ahead, and I’m not quite sure why. I believe if you work hard enough someone will recognize that and you can break any barriers set in front of you.
Pricing:
- 1 hour photo sessions- depending on travel and location- $250-$350
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.thejavamama.com
- Phone: 817-729-9261
- Email: beckylbranch@gmail.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/thejavamama
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thejavamama
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/javamamablog
Image Credit:
Becky Branch
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
