#tips and tricks for Content Marketing

[wppipcom]

Boost Your Event Management Business: Essential Tips for Success Complete Digital Solution

[strategichannah]

Halloween Marketing Ideas to Try Now

Looking for fun ways to engage your audience this Halloween? 🎃 Try these spooky marketing ideas—flash sales, social media campaigns, and more! #HalloweenMarketing #BusinessGrowth

Halloween Marketing Ideas to Try Now Written By: that Hannah Jones Time to Read: 5 minutes Halloween isn’t just for trick-or-treating—it’s also a prime time for businesses to tap into the festive spirit and engage their audience in new and creative ways. From spooky promotions to themed content, Halloween offers a unique opportunity to stand out, delight your customers, and boost engagement.…

[innova7ions]

YouTube Success Secrets: Why vid IQ Reigns Supreme

Unlocking YouTube success is all about having the right tools, and in this video, we dive into two heavyweights: VidIQ and Tube Magic. While both promise to elevate our channels, VidIQ stands out with its long-standing reputation among seasoned creators who rely on data-driven strategies for growth.

With powerful SEO and analytics features, VidIQ offers AI insights that enhance our titles, tags, and descriptions for better visibility. Plus, competitor analysis gives us an edge in our niche. From trending topic suggestions to a wealth of resources at VidIQ Academy, it’s clear why serious creators choose this tool for their journey toward YouTube dominance.

#YouTubeDominance

#YouTubeSuccess

#VidIQ

[dynamicdamilare]

4 Ways to Monetize Your Blog

#Blog #Blogging #Bloggers4 Ways to Monetize Your Blog_Video Description:_ Watch video here https://youtu.be/71pyxKDEqQs Welcome to our channel! Are you a blogger looking to monetize your blog? Here are four ways to do so:_Chapter 1: Affiliate Marketing (0:00 – 1:30)_The first way is through affiliate marketing. You can earn commissions by promoting products from retailers like Amazon through…

[marketingprofitmedia]

Learning Affiliate Marketing — Six Figure Blogging Secret Tricks for Creating High-Profit Blogs

To master affiliate marketing and achieve six-figure blogging success, learn the secret tricks of creating high-profit blogs. Key strategies involve optimizing content, leveraging SEO, and engaging audiences effectively.

Affiliate marketing through blogging holds the potential to be a lucrative online business with the right approach — guiding you to a six-figure income. The trick lies in identifying a profitable niche, crafting high-quality content, and establishing a strong online presence.

>>My Best Recommended & Proven Way to Make $100+ Commissions Daily with a Special Bonus — Watch THIS Video to Get START>>

Entering The Affiliate Marketing Arena

Entering the Affiliate Marketing Arena marks the start of an exciting journey. This path can lead to substantial income through blogging. Success requires understanding the essentials. Let’s unlock these secrets together.

Choosing The Right Niche

A well-chosen niche sets the foundation for a profitable blog. Consider these steps:

Identify your interests and expertise areas. Passion drives content.

Analyze market demand with tools like Google Trends.

Check competition levels. Find a balance, not too high or low.

Ensure monetization potential. Some topics sell better than others.

Understanding Affiliate Programs And Networks

Get to know the platforms that will pay you for promotions. Look at:

Affiliate Program Features Commission RatesAmazon AssociatesWide product range, easy to use1–10%ClickBankHigh commissions, digital productsUp to 75%ShareASaleDiverse merchants, reliable trackingVaries

Before choosing, read the terms of service. Not all programs fit all blogs.

Building Your Affiliate Blogging Platform

To nail affiliate marketing, start with a solid blogging platform. Get ready to learn essential tricks for building a blog that makes money.

Selecting A Domain And Hosting Service

Your domain name is your brand online. Pick a name that sticks. It should be easy, memorable, and relevant. For hosting, choose reliability and speed. Let’s break it down:

Domain Name: It’s your digital address. Keep it short and catchy.

Hosting Provider: They keep your blog online. Look for uptime and support.

Compare providers for the best deal. Think long-term for your blog’s growing traffic.

Blog Design And User Experience

Make your blog a joy to visit. A clean design keeps readers coming back. Focus on these:

Design Element Why It Matters Layout:Helps users find content easily. Navigation: Guide visitors through your site. Mobile-Friendly: Most users are on phones. Adapt to them.

Remember, a beautiful blog must load fast and look great on all devices. Simplify your design. Highlight your content.

>>My Best Recommended & Proven Way to Make $100+ Commissions Daily with a Special Bonus — Watch THIS Video to Get START>>

Content Creation Strategies

Content Creation Strategies are the backbone of six-figure blogging. Creating blog content that connects with readers and search engines can transform a blog from a hobby into a high-profit business. Let’s explore tried-and-true methods for developing stellar blog posts and tweaking content for SEO to drive organic traffic.

Crafting Engaging Blog Posts

Writing blog posts that capture attention requires strategy and skill. First, understand your audience’s needs and interests. Align topics with these insights for maximum engagement. Here are steps to craft compelling content:

Choose Catchy Titles: Titles are the first hook. Make them intriguing and clear.

Open with Impact: Start posts with an engaging sentence or question.

Use Subheadings: Break text into sections with descriptive subheadings for easier reading.

Add Visuals: Images and videos make content more interactive and shareable.

Storytelling: Share stories to connect with readers on a personal level.

Include Actionable Tips: Offer practical advice that readers can apply right away.

End with a Call-to-Action: Encourage readers to engage further, whether it’s to comment, share, or read another post.

Incorporating Seo For Organic Traffic

SEO is vital for any blog’s success. Focus on the following elements to boost rankings and attract organic traffic:

Keyword Research: Find relevant keywords with tools like Google Keyword Planner.

Optimize Titles and Meta Descriptions: Include primary keywords in these elements.

Internal Linking: Link to other posts on your blog to keep readers engaged and distribute page authority.

Quality Backlinks: Obtain links from reputable sites to enhance credibility.

Mobile-Friendly: Ensure your blog is responsive and mobile-ready.

Page Speed: Optimize site speed for a better user experience.

Regular Updates: Keep content current to signal an active and relevant blog to search engines.

Monetization Techniques And Optimization

Monetization turns your blog into a profit-generating tool. Proper optimization elevates potential earnings. Learn how to blend these strategies to set up a high-profit blog.

Strategic Placement Of Affiliate Links

Placing affiliate links strategically within content is crucial. It affects click-through rates and earnings. Key areas to consider include:

High-traffic pages: Place links where users frequently visit.

Above the fold: Early placement ensures visibility without scrolling.

Contextual placement: Embed links within relevant content for higher engagement.

Maximizing Earnings Through A/b Testing

A/B testing your affiliate marketing strategies can massively increase income. Test elements such as:

Element Variant AVariant BCall-to-action (CTA) TextBuy Now Learn More Link ColorBlue GreenLink Position Within textEnd of content

Analyze results to find what works best. Simplify changes, watch user behavior, and boost earnings.

Growth And Scaling Secrets

Turning a blog into a six-figure income stream is no magic. It takes smart strategies to grow. Use these secrets to scale up and earn more.

Leveraging Social Media For Traffic

To build a wider audience, you can’t ignore social media. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can drive massive traffic to your blog.

Create eye-catching content that demands a click.

Understand when your audience is active for maximum engagement.

Use hashtags that relate to your blog’s niche to get found easier.

Collaborate with influencers to get your blog in front of more eyes.

Track performance with tools to know what works. Tweak your approach to keep growing.

Expanding Your Outreach With Email Marketing

Email marketing keeps readers coming back. It’s a powerful tool.

Start by building an email list right from the start.

Offer valuable freebies as sign-up incentives.

Send regular emails that add real value not just promotions.

Segment your list to personalize the user experience.

Use analytics to measure opens, clicks, and conversions. Fine-tune emails for better results.

With consistent effort and these growth secrets, your blog can reach new heights. Watch your traffic and profits climb.

>>My Best Recommended & Proven Way to Make $100+ Commissions Daily with a Special Bonus — Watch THIS Video to Get START>>

Maintaining And Evolving Your Blog

Maintaining and Evolving Your Blog is crucial for achieving long-term success in the dynamic world of affiliate marketing. As the online landscape changes, your blog must adapt to stay relevant and profitable. Implementing the latest affiliate marketing strategies and continuously refining your blog will ensure you stay ahead of the competition.

Staying Updated With Affiliate Marketing Trends

Keeping pace with the latest trends in affiliate marketing is essential. Become a trendsetter by:

Subscribing to industry newsletters and podcasts

Joining affiliate marketing forums and groups

Attending webinars and conferences to learn from the experts

Use this knowledge to update your blog content regularly. This strategy keeps your audience engaged and supports SEO efforts.

Diversifying Income Streams And Products

To maximize your earnings, consider diversifying. Introduce a variety of products and income streams related to your niche. Steps include:

Researching new affiliate programs to complement existing offers

Testing different ad placements and affiliate products

Using data and analytics to track performance

Adjust your strategy based on data insights to optimize blog profitability.

Learning Affiliate Marketing Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How Can I Make $1000 A Month Blogging Give Your Best Tip?

Focus on creating high-quality, keyword-rich content. Monetize with affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and ad revenue. Engage with your audience to drive traffic and build trust.

Q. How Do I Become A Six Figure Affiliate Marketer?

Choose a profitable niche and focus on building authority. Develop a content-rich website to attract traffic. Master SEO to improve visibility. Network with reputable affiliate programs and select products with high earning potential. Continuously analyze and optimize your strategies for better conversion rates.

Q. Is Affiliate Blogging Still Profitable?

Affiliate blogging continues to be a profitable endeavor. It requires strategic content creation and audience trust to monetize effectively through affiliate partnerships.

Q. Can I Become A Millionaire From Blogging?

Yes, it is possible to become a millionaire through blogging by consistently creating valuable content, monetizing your blog effectively, and scaling your audience.

Q. What Is Affiliate Marketing?

Affiliate marketing is a performance-based strategy where businesses pay commissions to individuals or other companies (affiliates) for promoting their products or services and driving sales or leads.

Q. How Do Affiliate Marketers Earn Money?

Affiliate marketers earn money by promoting products or services through unique affiliate links; they receive a commission when their audience makes a purchase through those links.

Conclusion

Embarking on your affiliate marketing journey, remember the power of dedication and strategy. These secrets are your roadmap to a profitable blog that resonates with audiences. Implement them with consistency, and watch your efforts blossom into a thriving online business.

Your six-figure dream is achievable; start building now. Embrace the tricks, reap the rewards.

>>My Best Recommended & Proven Way to Make $100+ Commissions Daily with a Special Bonus — Watch THIS Video to Get START>>

Affiliate Disclaimer :

This article Contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission at NO ADDITIONAL cost to you if you decide to purchase something. While we receive affiliate compensation for reviews / promotions on this article, we always offer honest opinions, users experiences and real views related to the product or service itself. Our goal is to help readers make the best purchasing decisions, however, the testimonies and opinions expressed are ours only. As always you should do your own thoughts to verify any claims, results and stats before making any kind of purchase. Clicking links or purchasing products recommended in this article may generate income for this product from affiliate commissions and you should assume we are compensated for any purchases you make. We review products and services you might find interesting. If you purchase them, we might get a share of the commission from the sale from our partners. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended.

Source : Grow Your Business with the High Ticket Profit System — Unlocking High-Value Sales

Thanks for reading my article on “Learning Affiliate Marketing — Six Figure Blogging Secret Tricks for Creating High-Profit Blogs“, hope it will help!

[liveblack]

Tips You Need to Know to Post on Instagram 2023 | Liveblack

Instagram is the one thing everyone scrolls after waking up. It’s become routine to check Instagram to stay updated with everything happening worldwide. It is considered the platform that earns you a lot of engagement and is a proven fact. We can call it a standard platform for creators and businesses to engage with their audience through innovative content. However, there’s a thing everyone should know about posting on Instagram: posting at whatever time you like doesn’t get you more reach and engagement.

You put a lot of effort into preparing an entire post, and it needs to reach the audience the way you want; your hard work runs into a loss. Growing an audience base is never easy, as you have to compete with other creators, businesses, brands, etc., to stand out in the herd. So how can you get more reach and engagement through Instagram? Well, a simple answer is to know the best time to post on Instagram. What is the best time to post on Instagram? So here we are, ready with a detailed answer and some tips and tricks of engagement techniques that land you a helping hand to make your hard work worthwhile through high engagement.

Multiple factors affect engagement — time to post, location, type of audience, content, etc. Many platforms have researched the best time to post and get multiple common data on days and specific times for posting.

However, only some mentioned times or days can lead you to the highest engagement because every business and creator has its niche, and it also depends on the quality of content you post and the location. It’s hard to say about any particular average time to post on Instagram but take a look at the information we will share here.

Every time Instagram changes its algorithm, and tricks everyone with something new. But what remains the same is checking on which time you get the most engagement.

Things that help you achieve your Instagram goals include — interest, recent posts, and how frequently you get through some particular accounts. These three things will help you understand the behavior of your audience.

Anyone interested in any particular Instagram account or posts will most likely appear on top of their feed. When people have free time, they use Instagram, and most of the time, the recent posts they see get the most reach and engagement. See, time helps you with everything. And now, the most critical point is how frequently the audience searches for any particular post and account on Instagram.

All it means is that you have to post frequently, not in quantity posts but in quality content, and get a higher chance to connect with your audience. Each day of the week has its time. You can post or schedule your post accordingly. Workdays are the most recommended to post as on weekends, people are busy with their personal lives and do not spend much time on social media. But you still have a chance to get an engagement on weekends for a specific time slot.

The location also plays a vital role in getting more from Instagram. Audiences differ from countries and states or cities that like different content as per their interest. The wider your audience, you don’t have to worry about time, but if you are a local business or just started playing on Instagram, you must be careful with each step you take. Consider posting at the best time to get the most reach, likes, comments, and shares.

Every audience is unique, and you see a different level of engagement with your primary audience. Sometimes you see some accounts get more likes, comments, shares, and everything despite posting whichever content, but don’t be demotivated as good things take time, and the best time comes for you and your engagement.

Understand your primary audience and what they are interested in, and, according to that, take action for what you want from them. Like, comment, share, or save your post, click the link that leads them to your website, etc., and give priority to your primary audience by posting quality content at the best time. Social media statistics show the actual numbers and data so that you can get an idea about when you get the most engagement, how your posts perform on a particular weekday, which time is suitable for your business to post, and what type of content people like from your account, age and gender of the audience who engages with you, etc. your Instagram app will help you every way possible to collect the necessary data.

On the other hand, reels are making heads turn every day with their unique approach and creative side; you can also check out the best time to post Instagram reels.

There are tools to help you schedule your posts and analyze the data of all your posts. Even an Instagram app will help you with the data, including date, time, day, gender, age, etc., to make it easier to record your audience’s behavior and the performance of your posts.

Throughout your Instagram account, post consistently with the quality content you prepared to engage your audience, customers, or new users. Never sacrifice quality over quantity, as you should deliver the best you have in your box for your audience. If you are running out of creative ideas, check out other businesses’ and creators’ accounts to get new ideas on reels and posts.

Liveblack is a digital marketing agency to assists you with every digital need. We are social media marketing experts who believe in delivering innovative content with fresh concepts. Call us if you have any requirements regarding your brand.

[bealaminmiah]

Best Facebook Marketing Tips & Tricks.

Facebook is a powerful platform for marketing, and employing effective strategies can help you reach and engage your target audience. Here are some tips for Facebook marketing:

Create a Business Page:

Set up a dedicated business page separate from your personal profile.

Optimize your page with a clear profile picture, cover photo, and accurate business information.

Content Strategy:

Share a variety of content, including images, videos, and text posts.

Use high-quality visuals and create content that resonates with your audience.

Experiment with different types of posts to see what performs best.

Consistent Posting:

Be consistent in your posting schedule to keep your audience engaged.

Use Facebook Insights to analyze when your audience is most active and tailor your posting times accordingly.

Engage with Your Audience:

Respond promptly to comments and messages.

Encourage discussions and ask questions to foster engagement.

Run polls or surveys to gather feedback from your audience.

Utilize Facebook Groups:

Join relevant groups in your industry and participate in discussions.

Consider creating a group for your business to build a community around your brand.

Facebook Ads:

Explore Facebook's advertising platform to reach a wider audience.

Use targeted ads to reach specific demographics and interests.

Monitor and analyze ad performance regularly, adjusting your strategy based on the results.

Use Facebook Insights:

Utilize Facebook Insights to track the performance of your page.

Pay attention to metrics such as reach, engagement, and demographics to refine your strategy.

Host Contests and Giveaways:

Encourage user participation with contests and giveaways.

Set clear rules and deadlines, and promote these events on your page.

Leverage Live Video:

Take advantage of Facebook Live to connect with your audience in real-time.

Use live video for product launches, Q&A sessions, or behind-the-scenes looks.

Mobile Optimization:

Ensure that your content is mobile-friendly, as many users access Facebook on mobile devices.

Test how your content looks on different devices to optimize the user experience.

Customer Testimonials and Reviews:

Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on your page.

Share positive testimonials to build trust and credibility.

Strategic Partnerships:

Collaborate with other businesses or influencers in your industry for cross-promotion.

Partnering with others can help you tap into new audiences.

Remember, the key to successful Facebook marketing is a combination of quality content, consistent engagement, and a thorough understanding of your target audience. Regularly assess your performance metrics and adjust your strategy accordingly.

[improvementor]

Content Rules - 3 Useful Content Ideas (Animated). By the founder of MarketingProfs & a longtime storyteller - Ann Handley & C.C. Chapman Accordingly. Final Rating 74/100. Also available in blogpost format.

[cacmsinsitute]

The Influence of Content Marketing on Engagement and Conversions

Businesses face the challenge of standing out from the crowd and capturing the attention of their target audience in today's digital era, where consumers are inundated with an overwhelming amount of information. Among the din, content marketing has emerged as an effective strategy for attracting and retaining customers. Businesses can establish themselves as thought leaders, build trust, and ultimately drive engagement and conversions by providing valuable and relevant content. In this article, we will look at how content marketing can be used to captivate audiences and effectively influence consumer behavior.

Making Useful and Relevant Content

The creation of valuable and relevant content that resonates with the target audience is at the heart of content marketing. Businesses can effectively address these aspects by understanding their customers' needs, interests, and pain points. The key is to deliver content that provides genuine value to the audience, whether it is informative blog articles, engaging videos, or interactive social media posts. This not only grabs their attention, but also establishes credibility and positions the brand as an industry authority.

Building Relationships and Establishing Trust

Content marketing can help you build trust and long-term relationships with your customers. Businesses can foster a sense of loyalty and dependability by consistently delivering high-quality content that educates, entertains, or solves problems. Customers are more likely to engage with a brand's content, share it with others, and consider it when making purchasing decisions when they perceive it as a trustworthy source of valuable information. Trust is the foundation for engagement and conversions, and content marketing is critical in cultivating this trust.

Increasing Interactivity and Engagement

One of the primary goals of content marketing is to increase audience participation. Engaged audiences are more likely to interact with the brand, spend more time on its platforms, and form a bond with it. This can be accomplished by including call-to-action buttons in blog posts, starting discussions on social media, or hosting webinars and live events. Businesses can deepen the connection and create a sense of community by actively engaging the audience in the conversation. Furthermore, user-generated content and customer testimonials can boost engagement by allowing customers to share their thoughts and experiences.

Lead Generation and Conversion Optimization

Content marketing strategies that are effective focus not only on attracting new customers, but also on nurturing leads and driving conversions. Businesses can guide prospects from awareness to consideration and, eventually, conversion by providing valuable content throughout the customer journey. E-books, case studies, and product demos can help address specific pain points and demonstrate the value of the products or services offered. Furthermore, personalized email campaigns and marketing automation can improve the nurturing process by ensuring that leads receive relevant content at the right time, increasing the likelihood of conversion.

Conclusion

Content marketing has emerged as a powerful tool for businesses to capture and retain customers in a fiercely competitive digital landscape. Content marketing has the potential to significantly influence consumer behavior and drive conversions by creating valuable and relevant content, establishing trust, encouraging engagement, and nurturing leads. A thorough understanding of the target audience's preferences and pain points is required for effective content marketing strategies. Businesses that continue to leverage the power of content marketing can open up new growth opportunities, establish a strong online presence, and forge meaningful relationships with their customers.

Are you prepared to master the art of digital marketing? Join the CACMS Institute today to gain in-depth knowledge and skills in all facets of digital marketing. Don't pass up this fantastic opportunity. Sign up now: http://cacms.in/certified-courses/certified-internet-marketing-practitioner/

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Tips: Prose

If you want to improve the quality of your writing, the best place to start is with the fundamentals. These valuable tips can help you learn how to write better and elevate your creative output.

Tips for Writing Engaging Prose

Use these writing tricks and tips to elevate your prose:

Don’t worry about your first draft. A lot of writers fall victim to writer’s block at the very beginning of a project. It can be hard to start writing when you’re staring at a blank page, not sure exactly where a piece will end up. At this early stage, it’s best to put aside perfectionism and just get your story idea down on paper. Start out by freewriting with a writing prompt or by building an outline. This can help you gain the confidence you need to complete a draft.

Cut the fluff. Editing can transform good writing into great writing. When editing, look for scenes that don’t advance the plot, overly long descriptions, and anything that won’t sustain a reader’s attention. Whether you’re working on short stories, business writing, content marketing, or nonfiction essays, try to match the word count of similar published pieces.

Rewrite, then rewrite again. Most great writers consider rewriting an integral part of the writing process. Writing a scene multiple times in different ways can help you distill these different attempts into the best writing you have to offer. Rewriting helps you work out any parts that don’t make sense or are illogical, which will help your writing sound smarter and more considered.

Read your work out loud. Reading your work out loud will almost certainly make you a better writer. Embarrassing as it may seem in the moment, speaking the words out loud is a great way to notice the rhythm of your sentences and catch any unintended repetition or awkward word choices.

Learn how to hook your readers. Your hook-writing style will depend on whether you’re a fiction writer working on a novel or a copywriter blogging for a company, but every good writer has a strategy for generating interest. Try starting your piece with an emotional scene or a surprising statement. The important thing is that your first sentence, scene, or page creates questions in your reader’s mind, encouraging them to keep reading. Beware of the obvious hook—spend time coming up with a thoughtful, unique hook that will make your writing sound smart, not gimmicky.

Write concisely. Short sentences with simple words tend to sound smarter than long sentences full of big words. You don’t have to sound like Ernest Hemingway, but you should try cutting unnecessary language from your text. Often, it will make your piece more concise and authoritative.

Use the active voice. When writing in the active voice, the subject of a sentence performs the action. Passive voice sentences contain subjects that are the object of the sentence’s verb. They are not the “doer” of the sentence; they are the recipient of an action. Sentences constructed with the active voice use fewer words and are easier to understand.

Source ⚜ More: Notes & References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

[dynamicdamilare]

4 Ways to Monetize Your Blog

#Blog #Blogging #Bloggers4 Ways to Monetize Your Blog_Video Description:_ Watch video here https://youtu.be/71pyxKDEqQs Welcome to our channel! Are you a blogger looking to monetize your blog? Here are four ways to do so:_Chapter 1: Affiliate Marketing (0:00 – 1:30)_The first way is through affiliate marketing. You can earn commissions by promoting products from retailers like Amazon through…

[illusivelle]

just right

pairing: carmen 'carmy' berzatto x reader rating: t (for now) length: 1,699 words content: mild cursing summary: you go to the market every week like clockwork, normally one of the first ones there. but you don't expect to see a familiar face standing at one your favourite vendors. a/n: did someone say brain rot? hope you all enjoy this one. i just can't get enough of a neighbour trope apparently. not proofread although not exactly a middle of the night dump - more like middle of the day. read part one link to ao3 here!

You'd gone from never seeing your neighbour, Carmen — no, Carmy — to seeing him every so often. In the halls mid afternoon, when you'd just come home and were ready to settle in and it looked like he was heading out to start his evening. Sometimes out in front of the building while you exchanged your goods with your elderly neighbour, fresh bread for flowers and greens, Carmy strolling into the apartment with his own bag in tow. And now, well before most of the city had even had their first coffee, at the farmer's market.

At first, you thought you were imagining it. The silhouette of your neighbour that started to haunt your dreams at night. Floppy soft curls, stark blue eyes, tattoos littered over the carved muscles of his arms and hands. But as you slowed your pace to a near stop and focused, you knew it wasn't just your eyes playing tricks on you. There was Carmy standing underneath the tent of one of your favourite growers, a tattooed hand covering his mouth as he grazed his knuckles along his lips. Those blue eyes bright even this far away, darting between the offerings on the table and the familiar face behind the counter who was eagerly smiling and chatting him up.

And again, you were rendered frozen. He hadn't even looked your way and yet your feet felt cemented to the ground in your indecision.

Go to pick out your produce like any other day, or turn around and run?

The latter made your brows pinch together because why was that even an option? Carmy didn't own the market, and he sure as shit wasn't going to be the reason you leave the market fruitless (literally). But there was a churning low inside your belly, a wash of nerves as you started to close the distance between the two of you. Or rather, between you and the stall. The vendor — the real reason you were approaching now, and it had nothing to do with the undeniably attractive man standing there, too.

You didn't look at him. Instead, you busied yourself with the incredibly interesting purple cauliflower, flipping it in your hand a couple of times before you heard the soft grumble of somebody clearing their throat.

But still, you didn't look up from staring at the vegetable, like it was the single most fascinating thing in the world. And truly, it was, because you had no idea that cauliflower could even be another colour other than white, nevermind the fact that these stalks were larger than usual with its long leaves cradling them on every side.

Maybe that was your first mistake, going blindly for the first and nearest thing you saw instead of picking up something you were used to. God, why didn't you pick up the onion or garlic or tomato? Or maybe, just maybe, it was an unconscious choice to try to break through the hypothetical wall between you and your neighbour.

"Hi."

The look of shock on your face wasn't exactly fake. Carmy did surprise you. Partly because you weren't expecting him to say anything to you at all, but mostly because when you tipped your head to acknowledge him, he was suddenly so incredibly close. Close enough for you to catch the lingering smell of smoke, a hint of coffee, and fresh soap. A strange blend but on him, it oddly worked — and made you want to lean in closer.

"Hi."

"It's sweet."

"What?"

"A little nutty."

"I don't—"

"The cauliflower." A shy smile split Carmy's lips as he stared pointedly at the bunch of purple florets in your hand before he locked his gaze with yours. "Mostly sweet, though."

Right, the cauliflower. "Too sweet, you think?" Your attention faltered for a second and landed on his lips at the same time he decided to roll his tongue along the bottom one.

"Mm, just right, I'd say."

"Just right."

What was it about Carmy's presence that made you want to sit with it a moment longer? Your conversations with him have mostly been in passing save for the time you handed him his package, but even that was short, only a few words exchanged between the two of you. It didn't matter how little he said, you hung onto the words. Not quite grasping for more but appreciating that he wasn't the type to speak just to fill the air. Appreciating that there seemed to be more under the surface he wasn't voicing, but was clear if you just had enough courage to look into his eyes a little bit longer.

And today, you found that courage. Flicking your gaze up to him and holding his stare, a slow smile unfurled from one corner of your mouth to the other, shocked to see it mirrored in Carmy's face.

"Have you ever tried it before?"

"No, never."

"You'll have to let me know how you like it."

"Oh?"

"Roasted is usually a pretty safe option," he continued, picking up some sage and handing it to you, "but turning it into a soup with some crispy sage on top is better."

You glanced down at how easily Carmy placed the herb in your palm, smiling to yourself before nodding. "So you like to cook?"

"Uh," he chuckled, knuckles lifting to graze his mouth again as if he wanted to hide that smile, the indent on his cheek peeking out from behind his wrist, "something like that, yeah."

"A chef?"

"I, uh, yeah. I cook. I'm a chef. Of sorts."

"Of sorts."

"I used to— um. Used to cook fancy things, now I cook other things."

"Right," you drawled, and although your brows were bunched together, amusement lined every other inch of your features, "so, used to cook in your basement and now you cook…?"

"In a kitchen."

"Real food this time, though."

"Mostly edible."

A loud laugh escaped you, almost embarrassingly so. The banter between you two was quick, easy, fun even as you caught the way his chin dipped into his chest on a wider smile. His dimple was very much showing itself now and you were glad that your hands were full because they itched to touch him.

And that would be absolutely no fucking good, would it?

You barely knew Carmy — Carmen. He was just your neighbour, nothing else.

As your laughter dwindled down to nothing but soft smiles, the vendor came around to greet you. In his hand were some of the other fruits and veg you normally liked to keep, a handful of fresh lemons in a basket and extra radishes and red onion.

"D'you—?"

"Do I?"

"Come here often?"

"I mean, as often as I can given it only happens once a week." You teased.

Carmy redirected his attention to the man behind the small counter, and they did a similar exchange. Cash for produce that went right into the large bag you hadn't noticed was tucked behind his back. "Are you, uh, you gonna walk around a bit more—"

But a sharp ringtone sounded from his pocket and Carmy was already groaning, fishing for the phone and giving you an apologetic look. "Sorry, I gotta—"

"Of course."

With his back turned to you and his voice lowered, speaking in hushed tones, you moved to the side in an effort to give him his privacy. But you couldn't help your curiosity, peering over your shoulder to watch the way he tangled his hand through his hair and paced back and forth.

Who was he talking to? What was it about? Why was there a divot in his brow and why did you so badly want to soothe it with your fingers?

You shook your head in a shallow attempt to shake the thought, the thought that had no business forming in your mind. Carmy stared at his phone for a moment before he pocketed it again, turning to you with an uncertainty flashing in his eyes, like a cloud rolling through the sky. "Hey, I, uh, I gotta go, but… woulda been nice to have some company today."

"A chef's company, no less." You kept your tone light and easy, fingers wrapping around the straps of the bag you hitched higher on your shoulder.

But his tone was far less playful, laced with intention as he spoke. "Or just a person with a curious mind."

And there it was again, another moment that hung on a thin thread in the small space between you two, a ghost of a smile that made his dimple peek through the stubble on his cheek.

"See you around?" He asked quietly, his head slanted to level with your gaze.

Was there any other answer? "Yeah."

"Okay." Carmy nodded, wiping his fingers over his mouth before giving a nod to the vendor and turning back to you. "Okay."

"Okay."

A few seconds passed where you thought maybe the rest of the world stopped. Just the endless swirls of the blue in his eyes, like the sky meeting the sea and each blink, a tide calling to you. A few seconds, a few blinks, before Carmy was nodding and walking past you, throwing you a tiny smile over his shoulder that you would've missed if you hadn't been staring so blatantly at him.

Carmen Berzatto, your next door neighbour that was clearly reeling you in whether he knew it or not. And for fuck's sake, you should really get a grip sooner rather than later, scolding yourself silently as you belatedly realized you'd been ogling him as he left.

When you went home less than an hour later, your elderly neighbour gave you the fresh bread and asked you what she was supposed to do with the purple cauliflower you handed to her. "Heard it was best roasted," you shrugged, but hung onto the vegetable, "do you want me to make you something with it instead?" This thrilled her, clear in the wide grin crossing her face as she shoved the bundle back into your bag, letting you know how excited she was and thanking you.

"Thank Carmy." You said without thinking.

And almost too quickly, she smirked. "Oh, why am I not surprised?"

[cozmikvi]

Hey. You. Yes, You. Did you know there are ways to support your local punk scene without having to go to live shows.

now, I know the best thing to do when supporting bands is to show up to their shows, however, If you are socially awkward, people stress you out, if you got insane anxiety, or if youre a parent and work 2 jobs to survive, YOU ARE STILL PUNK. YOU ARE STILL AN ACTIVE MEMBER OF THE SCENE, if you use some of these little tips and tricks.

attend a show if possible ONLY when you can, even if you dont know who is playing, but always bring a friend who is a comfort post to lean on.

Find local artists through socials. Every single music venue around you has Insta/Facebook/Twitter/TikTok, and if they are awesome Bluesky/Tumblr, If you find a punk/harcore adjacent band flyer. SPREAD THE LOVE. share em around get more eyes on it, tag the venue and every artist listed, help them get people who can attend shows, Do some listen along content highlighting said bands and point your audience to the shows and their socials

Speaking of spreading the love. If artists around have any flyers made on socials, download the image, print/trace it, Make hundreds of those bad boys and put them up where the hell ever you want. IRL eyes attract IRL attention, and IRL attendance, and its a major fuck you to algohell.

BUY THEIR SHIT. So you found a small band that sound fucking awesome, They got bandcamp? Buy a single, Patreon? 1 month donation, Merch market? Get a shirt or Patch.

Make. A. Zine. They are STTUUUUPID SIMPLE, like mad easy and super fun. Dont gotta be this artistic masterpiece, just make a lil collection of doodles and essays and poems, List local shows, bands, socials for the bands, donation links, political activism, The world is your toilet, so throw some shit around!

Are you yourself an artist? See above, but also, DM local bands offer your services, Flyers, Album art, Logo design, stickers, shirts, DIY shit is awesome and if you got some design and drawing talent, [i know you do dont doubt yourself] bands make music, thats really it, some if not most arent fluent in other mediums, lighten the load, trust me, theyll love it.

Lastly; Dont sweat the dipshits. People online are legion. Lots of conformists or true scottsmans all over the damn place, If some slackjaw cishet [yes its mostly dudes, almost always against femmes in the scene] dingus is givin you shit for "nOt bEiNg pUnK eNoUgH" tell that dipshit to go fuck himself, its a much better use of both of your times. Dont listen to every lil tiktok rando, or annoying tumblrite, If you are punk, if you have punk values, if you are doin shit. Fuck em. Keep livin life, and struggle on, cuz for every dipshit chirper, there are thousands of awesome and cool peeps who are waaayyy worth your attention.

punk is a beautiful community full of talented people and unfortunately in an internet age, the most toxic and immature aspects are brought to the limelight, it is up to us as a community and individuals within, to not bother with this garbage, Putting people down, especially if they might be disabled, or anxious, or femme, or just "not cool enough for you", Is not "Supporting the scene" Youre just being a dick. To all the baby punks out there, Have fun, Struggle well, Stay Safe, Dont Die.

If you got anymore awesome tips, put em in the tags, scream em to your cat, tell a friend, share it, spread the love,