5 Expert Tips to Legally Protect Your Blog
Blogging and working as a social media influencer is an in demand career path and shows no signs of slowing down! But what do bloggers need to know about their legal liabilty? Every small business has legal considerations they need to know. I chatted with a lawyer, Courtney of Courthouse Couture to get her expertise. Keep reading for 5 tips you need to know to legally protect your blog!
5 Expert Tips to Legally Protect Your Blog
Disclosure: all statements made are my personal opinion and do not reflect the opinion of my employer. No statements made establish any form of an attorney client relationship.
1. Tell me about yourself and your background/experience as a lawyer and Influencer.
I am a lawyer and have been a practicing attorney for over 10 years and I currently do commercial real estate transactions. However I have experience in criminal and civil litigation as well. I joined Instagram in 2014 however, I thought of my IG/Blog name probably 2 years before that. I officially launched my blog www.Courthousecouture.com in 2018.
2. What are some mistakes most Influencers make when it comes to legally protecting their business?
Influencing is ultimately a business and I would suggest doing some basic research on taxes and business entities. Each state is different and based on each individual’s personal situation different business types may provide more tax benefits. Legal zoom may be able to walk you through the process but if you are starting to earn lots of money I suggest a consultation with an attorney and accountant.
If Influencers are creating products or have a unique name, they may need to seek the assistance of an Intellectual Property lawyer to figure out how to protect themselves and/or their product.
Influencers should also be cognizant of disclosing when they are receiving sponsored product or gifted product. Here is a quick primer from the Federal Trade Commission. Often brands will ask an influencer to use the proper hashtags but it is the influencer’s ultimate responsibility to be knowledgeable. If you are confused, ask an attorney.
3. Contract negotiation never gets easy! What are some major red flags a new Influencer should look out for in a contract for a brand partnership. How can influencers protect themselves from scams and being taken advantage of?
I think common mistakes with contracts are not fully reading the contracts received, even for gifted items. Hidden provisions on usage of photos, non-compete clauses, and penalty for non performance are just a few examples of things to look for in a contract. If someone doesn’t understand a provision, they need to ask for at least 24-48 hours to review and see if they can consult with an attorney who handles influencer contracts. They can also ask the brand they are working with but it is not the brand’s legal responsibility to protect them.
4. Do you see any legal trends emerging as the influencer industry grows
I think influencer trends we will continue to see are influencers working together in teams to leverage their collective following when pursuing brand partnerships. I foresee Instagram, and brands, wanting to use the Instagram platform for people to buy merchandise instead of users going on outside programs ie: LIKEtoKNOW.it to purchase product. And I think that brands are going to continue to rely on influencers during the pandemic because it lowers the cost of their overall marketing budget. And they may not pivot after the pandemic. The influencer space provides a place for honest feedback in real time. Something large expensive marketing campaigns can’t provide.
5. You posted an interesting story about influencers being sued for promoting counterfeit products. Some influencers have also been sued, fined, or just downright shamed for failing to disclose or promoting questionable brands/events (Fyre Festival and sponsored pharmaceutical posts for example). What do influencers need to know about their responsibilities/liabilities?
Over the past year I have seen more Influencers using and linking products that are copies of branded items. For example, wearing a bag with Louis Vuitton logos that is not a Louis Vuitton bag but an exact replica of one. This is not the same as wearing an item that looks substantially similar to a designer item but does not use a brand logo. An influencer was sued for promoting these copied items and I think that as brands get smarter they may go after influencers who keep promoting these types of products. LIKEtoKNOW.it has already sent a letter to influencers asking them not to use the word “dupe” or copy in captions. They suggested using phrases like “the look for less.” We will see if people continue to promote these items but I wouldn’t do it to be safe.
Influencers should be mindful of what they promote, and the ramifications of promoting something without having full details on what they are promoting. If you are not sure on the details, feel like something is wrong, or don’t like the direction of something don’t accept payment or move forward. It is better to say no to a project than to say yes and ruin your personal brand by attaching yourself to something like Fyre festival for example.
About the Contributor
Courtney is an attorney in Houston and the creator of courthousecouture.com, a fashion blog and lifestyle brand where she discusses fashion, life, and her journey as an attorney. Follow her on Instagram for more!
10 Ways to Reset Your Finances Before 2021
2020 may have wreaked havoc on your finances. Here’s your roadmap to financial recovery in 2021.
The holidays can seem like open-season on your budget. Between all the travel, holiday shopping, and of course, your own beauty needs, it can get PRICEY! Staying on budget is always important, but even more so with all of the economic uncertainty due to the coronavirus pandemic. 2020 may have been a year of setbacks on multiple fronts, and I think we are all looking forward to normalcy and dare I say fun, in 2021. The coming of the New Year also brings the chance to make some much needed financial adjustments! Here are 10 ways to make 2021 a better year for your finances, no matter how they were impacted by 2020.
10 Ways to Reset Your Finances Before 2021
1. Invest in Yourself
Your education is an investment that will pay dividends. You may have finished school years ago or still be in the thick of it, but you can always learn something new. It may be something that can help you earn money, like a photography class or professional certificate. But it can also just be something that enriches you as a person, improves your mindset, or keeps you inspired.
2. Start an investing fund
If you’ve been timid about investing, this time of year is perfect to start taking baby steps. I began regularly stashing funds in my brokerage account so I’m ready to buy stocks when I see an opportunity that can’t be missed. I automate $25 a week and that’s all! I know saving can be tricky and investing can be downright scary – especially in a pandemic induced recession. I started with an amount I was comfortable with, and so should you!
3. Start tracking your expenses
Have you ever looked at your bank account balance and wondered where all your money was going? I’ve definitely had several of those moments this year, even before losing my job due to covid. My husband and I did some serious financial reviewing earlier this year and decided to start meticulously tracking our spending and saving. I started an Excel spreadsheet with our fixed expenses (things like the mortgage and phone bill) and variable expenses (things that can be different every month, like groceries, travel, dining out, fitness, hair/beauty, etc). It was such an eye opening exercise!
Now every time we spend a dime, we log it in the spreadsheet and monitor our totals as we go. The most important thing about securing your financial future is to have control over your present! Start keeping a close watch on your transactions so you can then figure out how to adjust your budget or where you need to cut back.
4. Get ready for tax season
Tax season is dreadful, but also inevitable. Make it less of a hot mess by organizing your financial documents meticulously and finding a tax preparer or CPA that you trust. Organization is super important if you have a lot of miscellaneous income, like from side hustles or freelancing. And the best way to maximize your return is to work with an expert that can thoroughly review your financial situation and know what deductions you qualify for. I like to start the year with a clear picture of what my return or liability might be. If it looks like I’m likely to get a good return I’ll file early. But when you have a lot of income from blogging or other side hustles that doesn’t get taxed throughout the year you may be likely to owe. If that’s how it looks I’ll hold off on filing until the deadline so I have more time to get that payment ready.
5. Set Financial Intentions
One of the pillars of financial success is staying motivated and intentional as you go along your financial journey. Intention setting is similar to goal setting, but there is one key difference. Goal setting is all about deciding what you hope to accomplish. Intention setting is about your attitude and focus. Your financial goals may look something like “save X amount of money a week” while your intentions can be more about improving your relationship with money. Think of a few financial intentions that will add depth and focus to your financial journey.
6. Negotiate with Your Banks
Chances are you are paying way too much interest on your credit cards. The Fed has been slashing interest rates like crazy and you should be benefitting from that. Call your credit cards and negotiate lower interest rates – most will very quickly agree. And be sure to periodically request a credit line increase. You should NEVER be maxing your cards or getting credit line increases so you can overspend. But having a higher credit limit can be a big boost to your credit score, and that will come in handy for everything from opening new accounts to eventually buying a place.
7. Set Financial Goals and Milestones Along the Way
Setting financial goals is essential, but it can be intimidating or seem unrealistic. Try setting milestones to make your goals seem more attainable and keep yourself accountable. Instead of saying you want to save $1000 this year, try breaking that down to a monthly goal or a weekly goal. You can even create a bonus if you hit your target early! And be sure to leave time in your schedule to review your progress, make adjustments, and stay educated on your personal finances.
8. Cut Out the Financial Clutter
You’ve probably got something costing you money or tempting you to spend. Audit your accounts for recurring charges, magazine subscriptions, or any miscellaneous automatic deductions, even small ones. And think about eliminating things that make you want to spend. You don’t need daily emails from every retailer or department store!
9. Start a Side Hustle or Make Yours More Profitable
People have been raving about the need for multiple streams of income for years, and can you blame them! The events of 2020 have only reinforced that messaging. If you don’t already have a side hustle, think of something you love to do that could be monetized. It can be anything from at home hair styling services to digital consulting. If you already have a side business, think about ways you can level up and maximize your earnings. Your financial stability can depend on it!
10. Manage Your Savings and Retirement
Even though retirement for me is still 30 something years away, planning for it seems so relevant right now. Every time I turn on YouTube I hear someone talking about the FIRE movement or balancing your portfolio. If all of that seems intimidating and makes you want to shut your laptop down and run, consider bringing on a professional. If the DIY approach isn’t for you, consult with a financial advisor to get some expertise on a retirement strategy that will meet your goals. Whatever you do, don’t put off thinking about retirement until you are in your 50s!
2021 is only 1 month away. Hopefully the 10 things in this article will help you make 2021 your best financial year yet. No matter how hard 2020 may have hit your wallet, you can plan carefully and get a jumpstart on your 2021 finances and securing your financial future!
18 Black Owned Businesses You Need to Support Now!
This week has been an overwhelming one for me. The covid related insanity already had me on edge, and the intensity of the protests have only amplified my feelings. It took me some time to gather my thoughts and spending less time on the internet and social media has helped. We all know that things need to change in this country, and I’m going to do my best to be a part of that change.
Times are hard for all of us right now, especially financially. Many of us have had our income affected by covid and the stay at home orders, and are struggling to stay afloat. It may be awhile before we regain some financial stability and discretionary income; but when we do, my personal challenge is to spend as much of those dollars as possible supporting black businesses. Here are 18 Black Owned Business to support now or whenever you can! For the purpose of this post, I’m only including US based businesses that ship nationwide, nothing that is specific to an area or neighborhood like restaurants.
Happy shopping!
Black Owned Beauty Businesses
Bossy started with the goal of making the perfect nude lip kit for brown women, and has since grown to include classic red and fun glitters. A percentage of every purchase goes to supporting their contributions with several charitable partners, including Girls Inc and Women’s Link Worldwide.
Mented also started with lipstick and now has everything from eyeshadow palettes to liquid foundation and powder. Check out their Shade Finder if you are looking for your perfect match!
I stan the queen Rihanna, and Fenty Beauty is one of the top makeup lines on the market right now. Bonus points if you buy directly from the website instead of Sephora!
Desiree Verdejo started Hyper Skin after her experiences wit adult acne during pregnancy. Their Hyper Clear Brightening Vitamin C Serum is designed to treat hyperpigmentation and keep skin glowing, at an affordable price point!
In the market for cruelty-free cosmetics in can’t miss me colors? Check out Coloured Raine’s incredible eyeshadow palettes and lipsticks! Even more impressive - their team is 100% black!
Father’s Day is coming up, and a Bevel razor would make the perfect kit. The blades are designed specifically for sensitive skin and to prevent razor bumps, which are way more common in men of color.
Founded by Tracee Ellis Ross, Pattern Beauty is a natural hair care line designed with hair health in mind. If you aren’t sure where to start, check out their Curl Guide for product recommendations unique to your hair type!
I’m a long term fan of Oyin Handmade. Their products are moisturizing, smell incredible and are at price points you can’t beat! Plus the retro style packaging adds an extra dose of charm.
Last time I was in Paris, I rocked an amazing braid with my Kurly Klip extensions! The hair is great quality and versatile enough to be styled in different ways. Plus they have every texture from kinky curls to a natural blowout.
You probably won’t be getting salon manicures anytime soon. Stock up on some fun new nail polish shades from Janet and Jo! After losing her mother and grandmother to breast cancer, the founder became dedicated to creating a more harm-free nail polish formula. The nail lacquers are cruelty free, vegan and free of the 10 chemicals usually found in nail polishes that are most commonly linked to cancer and a host of other health issues.
Affordable Black Owned Fashion Brands
There are a TON of black owned brands in fashion and this list is a very short one! As I mentioned above, I limited my research to US based, that under $100 price point and did not include brands that specialize in items like merch or slogan t-shirts. Check out some brands I love that fit within those guidelines.
We all need lingerie. Nubian Skin makes it easy to find your skin’s perfect match. They have every type of classic undergarment you’ll need in a range of hues from light tan to dark chocolate.
Founded by model and IG star Draya, Mint Swim is the sexy, Instagrammable swimwear you need to rock all summer.
Chic neutrals and a mix of sporty styles and flirty dresses? Yes please! Check out Local European for all that and more, from a brand that focuses on sustainability first.
Black Owned Lifestyle Brands to Shop Now
Honey Pot is the first complete feminine care system to cleanse and balance a ladies ecosystem. I gave up tampons and pads for the most part years ago, but they offer everything from chemical free tampons to soothing creams and washes.
J Luxe Scents creates handmade soy candles that are eco-friendly and cruelty free! You can also get a curated Candle Mood Box, that includes a playlist, candle, wax melt and surprise gift.
Their mission is simple but surprising – make sleep normal again! We’ve all consumed way too much hustle culture and are endlessly way too busy. Goodnight Darling wants you to prioritize sleep again, with a collection of stylish wick candles, herbal teas, bath soaks, and pillow sprays.
This line of allergy-free, gluten-free, vegan cookies is sold online and in Target stores nationwide, and comes in an array of flavors.
This women and minority owned business sells small batch sauces, jams and marinades. I love the fun flavor combos like Plum & Rose and Blackberry Mulled Merlot.
4 Steps to Crushing Your 2018 Goals
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #TheWooOfPoo #CollectiveBias
We’re about a week into 2018! Hopefully you have recovered from the festivities and have a fresh perspective on what you hope to accomplish this year. While I hate the term resolutions, I think that a new year is an important time to set smart, strategic goals that you can be held accountable for as the year progresses. Here is my road-map to setting actionable goals for my blog staying on track! Hopefully this helps inspire your journey to success this year!
1. Get Inspired!
There is nothing like a good book to help psyche you into action. I just finished reading The WOO of POO: Change Your Life In The Time You Take a Sh*t. If you aren’t familiar with Suzy Batiz or her company, Poo~Pourri, you are seriously missing out! The WOO of POO Before-You-Go® Toilet Spray is a game-changer! Just spray it in the bowl before you go and it forms a protective barrier that traps odor under the surface. So instead of smelling your roomie or lover’s poo, you just get a whiff of natural essential oils.
I’ve been a long term user of Poo~Pourri and have to say it has saved lives and relationships! So when I heard about Suzy’s book on Amazon I had to give it a read. The book is full of tidbits from Suzy and team on how they built a crazy idea into a multi-million dollar business. Add it to your reading list for some inspiration as you think about the goals you are setting and develop a roadmap to achieve them.
2. Stay Inspired
One of the first things mentioned in The WOO of POO is believing in magic. There are times when it feels like you are drowning in a sea of competition. And in the blogging world there is always someone with more followers, more engagement, or who you think is cuter or more stylish than you. Instead of letting the stink of potential failure keep you down, remember how unique your voice is and what you bring to the table. If you get lost along the way, there are several handy exercises in the book that can help you along the way. One of my biggest goals for the year is expanding my reach as a blogger, and sometimes it seems like an impossible journey, especially with all the changes to the Instagram algorithm. But then I remember when I started this journey, when I went from 200 followers to breaking my first 1000 and finally being where I am now. While I may not have exploded, I am growing at a steady pace, am proud of that, and am grateful to all of you who support my content.
3. Stay on top of my growth
Even though I wish I could snap my fingers and have a million followers, exponential growth does come at a price. Suzy and the Poo~Pourri team learned that when their company exploded after a viral video, and they almost went out of business. I still balance many responsibilities outside of blogging, between work, family, friends and a social life. I’m def not ready to manage a crazy editorial calender and blogging schedule, so I try to keep that in mind as I manage my growth.
4. Get Epic
Standing out in the bloggersphere is a challenge and one that I am trying my best to tackle! I'm planning to take my content to the next level by getting more creative and innovative every step of the way! Hopefully 2018 the best year for my business so far, and that it will only get better!
Let me know what you are hoping to accomplish this year and beyond, and how you plan to accomplish those goals! And check out The WOO of POO: Change Your Life In The Time You Take a Sh*t.on Amazon!
