On November 19th, Patreon and its creators celebrated #ThankYouPatrons Day, a day dedicated to the people who are changing the way creative work is valued. Patreon helps connect creators with sponsors and gives them a safe way to support the art they enjoy. February will be my three year anniversary of being a writer on Patreon!
In 2017, I launched my Patreon. Initially I tried the service after a series of financial setbacks during the second half of 2016. Blogging either here or on social media can be an expensive hobby. Website-related costs, screening tickets, festival passes and travel, DVD and Blu-Ray purchases, and adding to the Spellbound research library adds up.
Once I had my first two patrons, I realized I could call myself a paid film writer. That was an exciting moment! When work or a life event distracts or dominates my schedule, the support and encouragement of my readers and my patrons buoys me. When I am not creating, I don’t feel as happy or as whole. Anyone or anything that gets me writing is a blessing.
I have goals about being a better creator on Patreon. Sometimes I have been absent from the platform, and I do have some special thank yous to mail abroad to long-term supporters. As promised, I thank them on their own page on Spellbound. I have a three-part goal of being more prolific, becoming better at cultivating and growing my Patreon community, and getting closer to at least breaking even.
My next step is to make multimedia content. I’ve experimented with my YouTube channel and Instagram, and I’m readying myself for podcasting. I’ve selected a podcast hosting service! TCM fans have been encouraging about my voice, so I have a hunch my voice will lead me to an opportunity. In the short term, podcasting will lead to increased Spellbound expenses.
Click the Patreon banner below for more information or to become a patron!
