Caribbean Blogger Spotlight: Natalie Monique

Natalie Monique is a dear friend on mine. From the day I met Natalie we’ve had a sisterly friendship that hasn’t waned a bit. We were interning at the same TV network and clearly both had a passion about the Caribbean―that was almost five years ago. I was ecstatic when she told me was stepping into the world of blogging, as she has been a talented videographer and Caribbean lifestyle insider to many and decided to put her connection to the Caribbean to great use, working for herself rather than others. Her Cariburban site Natalie Monique begun as an online radio show which streamed live weekly. Her blog is an extension of topics covered on the show, which she plans to revive very soon. Get to know the girl behind the blog and the camera.

When did you start blogging & why?

I’ve always been an “in-the-know” person; learning, researching, finding what’s new and keeping people informed. I officially started Natalie Monique earlier this year. It was a matter of solidifying something I have always done.

I always wished there would be a greater cultural bond worldwide, especially within the Caribbean islands. I wanted to show we are not as “different” as people may think; just different in culture. I wanted to lessen that margin between Caribbean residents and its Diaspora as well. Just because Caribbeans are living outside the region doesn’t means they are not ‘home grown’ or fully support and yearn for some island spice.

I chose to develop a site that merges both the Caribbean and Urban sectors Edu-taining (entertaining and educating) the regions, while creating an explosive and beneficial mix.

Your blog is associated with your name, how do you want to position yourself as a brand?

Yes, my brand is me. I believe it is important to market a product that is original, not easily altered. There’s only one me, so how much more original can that get (laughs)! For the most part, I am trying to push positivity, edutainment, relevance, creativity —all the elements I try to exude and extend that through the site. I want to connect and interact with people wishing to do the same for the Caribbean. You can be fun and remain relevant without the hype.

If you could describe your blog in one sentence, what would it be?

It’s a Classy, Cariburban, Chill.

With your film background how do you incorporate that into your blog?

Being a Film/Video Specialist, image is extremely important. Natalie Monique may have a story similar to another site, but you can be assured it will be presented in some sort of colorful, visual manner. People are stimulated by what they see, what they create in their minds. As a writer, I try to be very colorful and descriptive in my posts. Making films is about creating a vision, making something come alive and my blog should do the same.

What do you hope to accomplish through your blog?

To have an impact. I want to assist in creating that seamless margin between the Caribbean and the rest of the world. I want to encourage Caribbean locales to reach out beyond the region and to recognize the wider potential for growth. I want to show the world that the Caribbean may not be as “advanced” in some areas, but we have the talent, the drive, the dedication to compete internationally, and we will get there. The Caribbean is more than beaches and reggae music, there’s a lot to learn and discover. Creating unity amongst the islands themselves is important too.

What is the most challenging part of being a blogger?

Trying to focus on Quality vs. Quantity is where I find my greatest challenge. I mean, I have the option as we all do, to post everything that happens; however, my aim is to find what will work with my mission of promoting the Caribbean to the world. I prefer to have five ‘quality’ posts as opposed to ten mediocre ones. The challenge is staying focused, despite other demands and not blogging just for the sake of blogging. I must be bringing something different or I’d be better off being a blog reader.

How do you keep content on your blog fresh and interesting?

A lot of thought goes into each post. Knowing what my readers want, knowing my niche and market. I do a lot of research not only for my content, but also the people who visit the site, where are they from, what do they like, what would be good to introduce as a relevant point of interest or edutaining factor.

How do you balance writing, promoting, coverage etc.?

I am still trying to figure that out. Let’s just say sleep is not my best friend! I do a lot myself, and would love to eventually get some more contributors on board. It’s a matter of organization, and not allowing myself to be overwhelmed by trying to do everything. The balance is in the standard I have set.

Do you feel Caribbean bloggers are taken as seriously as print publications (why or why not)?

Happy you brought this up, as Caribbean bloggers in general need to take themselves more seriously. If we all do that, then we will demand the respect from others.

The Caribbean is considered “Third World”, so we have to work harder. I find many Caribbean bloggers literally copy everything mainstream bloggers/media do. Where is the authenticity? We need to recognize that the potential of the Caribbean is endless. It is the responsibility of  showing what we have to offer.

Who are you Vibin’ to right now (Musically Caribbean or non-Caribbean)?

Music is therapeutic. There is something for everyone, every mood, every situation, hence why I enjoy any artiste at various moments. Dancehall, Reggae and Soca are in my veins so I love all my local artistes, I love my Soul/ R&B and beats with drums and powerful beats, for example, I really love African music.

Any artiste who is capable of switching it up is who I will always lean towards: Kanye West, Rihanna, Lil Wayne, Brandy, Assassin, Nicki Minaj, Buju Banton, Lady Gaga, Jay Z, Bob Marley, Kelly Rowland, Chris Brown Sizzla, Machel Montano, Beyonce to name a few.

How would you describe your personal style?

I’m a butterfly, I don’t have a specific style that I stick to. It’s ever-evolving. Depending on my mood colorful, a bit of mysticism, fun, subtle or straight up sexy. Im Cariburban baby!