Blog Spotlight: The Mothership
January 24, 2016 Blogs
New mom and editor of good magazine, Helen Farmer, has a refreshingly down-to-earth take on motherhood and living in Dubai on her parenting blog The Mothership. MediaSource spoke with Helen about her blog’s message, her feelings on sponsored content, and opportunities for collaboration.
What inspired you to start a blog?
I’m an editor and writer who has worked in magazines for more than a decade, so when I had a baby last year it was a natural progression. Starting an outlet felt like a way to not only help me deal with the newness (and weirdness) of being a mum, but I also wanted to create a space where other women could come to find relatable, approachable information about living, working and parenting in Dubai.
What topics do you cover on The Mothership?
It’s all about real, honest life, so it’s more high chairs than high fashion, with features on everything from nannies to Netflix, Dubai driving to adopting senior dogs. There’s also a Facebook community for further interaction, and on-the-spot updates. Whether it’s a quick recommendation for a new play space, a great date night destination or a lengthy rant about those ‘quirks’ we all face living here in the UAE, it’s inclusive, humorous and real.
What makes your blog different? Is there a particular message behind it?
Basically, this blog is for you if you're a busy, active mum who can't stand small talk, unreliable information and twee mummy blogs who make out that mothering is all unicorns, candy floss and rose petals, instead of admitting that you can love your child so much it terrifies you, while still wanting a night in alone watching TV with a large drink, or night out pretending you don't have children.
Which local parenting blogs do you follow? Is there room for this area to grow?
I enjoy the depth of information on Sassy Mama Dubai, and admire the following Mum of Boys and Tuesdayschild have gained, but feel the UAE is crying out for a good dad blog. The men often get overlooked when it comes to parenting websites, and there’s a great opportunity for a funny Dubai dad to create a website where others can get good advice with bit of cheek.
You’ve guest posted on Sassy Mama Dubai and Bride Club ME before in the past. Can we expect more collaborations?
Absolutely. There are so many outlets, whether it’s print or online, where content can be shared and a greater audience reached for both sides. I truly think the key is to find ways to complement rather than compete with other bloggers, so that we form a powerful collective.
How do you feel about sponsored content?
I’m always open to aligning myself and The Mothership with companies or brands that fit with my ethos and benefit my followers, as long as it’s responsible content.
Any tips for PRs/marketers looking to contact you?
Feel free to email me, but please don’t chase up on the phone immediately. And get in touch with an idea that's specific and relevant - not general press releases - you'll get much better results.
What’s the best way for PRs to build a relationship with you?
Get to know me, my content and my audience. It’s that simple.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to new bloggers?
Generate original content (or credit when you don’t) and write from the heart; don’t pretend to be someone you’re not - readers can see straight through it.
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