How to Make Money with Affiliate Marketing on Pinterest (Even If You’re New)

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How to Make Money with Affiliate Marketing on Pinterest (Even If You’re New)

Affiliate marketing on Pinterest isn’t just possible—it’s a total game-changer for bringing in extra income while helping your audience find products and services they’ll love.

I’ve been using Pinterest for years (since it was invite-only!) to grow my photography and marketing businesses, and let me tell you—adding affiliate links was a no-brainer once I realized how easy and effective it is. If you’re already pinning content and driving traffic to your site, why not monetize it?

In this post, I’m breaking down how you can use Pinterest to make money through affiliate links—without feeling salesy or spammy. Let’s dive in!

What is Affiliate Marketing on Pinterest?

Affiliate marketing = sharing a product or service through a unique link and earning a commission when someone makes a purchase through that link.

Pinterest is perfect for affiliate marketing because it’s not social media—it’s a search engine. People go on Pinterest to look for solutions and discover ideas. That means they’re already in the mindset to take action when they come across your content.

Pinterest also has a long shelf life. Unlike Instagram or TikTok posts that disappear after 24 hours, pins can continue driving traffic (and sales) for months or even years.

How to Choose the Right Affiliate Programs

Not all affiliate programs are created equal. The key is to choose products and services that align with your audience and niche.

Here are some of my go-to affiliate programs:

  • Amazon Associates – Great for almost any niche because Amazon has literally everything.
  • LTK (formerly RewardStyle) – Perfect for fashion, home, and lifestyle content.
  • Service-Based Affiliate Programs – If you love a business tool (like Tailwind, Canva, or my Pinterest membership), see if they have an affiliate program (I do!)! It’s an easy way to earn while helping others grow their business.

Pro Tip: Only recommend products or services you’ve actually used and love—your audience will trust you more when they know you’re not just selling to make a quick buck.

How to Create Pinterest Content with Affiliate Links

➡️ Option 1: Direct Pinning

This is where you link directly from your pin to an affiliate product. It’s fast and easy, but there’s a catch: Pinterest gives more reach to content that leads to your website (not directly to a product).

Best Practices:
✅ Add a clear disclosure in the pin description (e.g., “This post contains affiliate links”).
✅ Use high-quality images that match Pinterest’s vertical format (2:3 ratio).
✅ Include a compelling call-to-action (CTA) like “Click to see why I love this!”

➡️ Option 2: Indirect Linking

This is where the magic happens. Instead of linking directly to the product, you create a blog post or landing page that talks about the product.

Why this works better:
✅ You can provide context and personal insight—this builds trust.
✅ Your audience gets more value from the post itself.
✅ Pinterest prefers links that lead to helpful content (aka, your blog).

Example Strategy:

  1. Write a blog post about a product you love.
  2. Share why you love it, how it helped you, and what your audience will gain from using it.
  3. Include the affiliate link within the blog post.
  4. Create a pin that links to your blog post, not directly to the product.

This method feels more organic and converts better because people are already in the mindset to trust your recommendations.

Affiliate Marketing Compliance (Super Important!)

Affiliate marketing comes with some legal stuff you need to follow (but don’t stress—it’s easy).

✨ If you’re linking directly to an affiliate product or servicet, add a disclosure in the pin description.
✨ If you’re linking to a blog post, include an FTC disclosure in the blog (but you don’t have to disclose it on the pin).
✨ Transparency builds trust—and trust = more clicks and sales.

Track Your Results (So You Can Do More of What Works!)

Pinterest gives you all the data you need to adjust and improve your strategy. Keep an eye on these key metrics:

  • Impressions: How many people see your pin.
  • Clicks: How many people click through to your blog or product page.
  • Saves: How many people save your pin (this increases visibility).
  • Outbound Clicks: How many people click through to the actual affiliate link and potentially make a purchase.

If a certain type of pin or product is performing well—create more of it!

TIP:  You can download my Pinterest Analyzer for free to start tracking your numbers here.

Example Strategy in Action:

Let’s say you’re a photographer who loves a certain camera bag. Here’s how you could create an affiliate strategy around it:

  1. Write a blog post about the camera bag—why you love it, how it’s improved your workflow, etc.
  2. Create 3-5 different pins for the post, using varied headlines and designs.
  3. Optimize the pin description with keywords like “best camera bag for photographers.”
  4. Track the results in Pinterest Analytics.
  5. If it’s working well—create similar content for other camera gear you love!

Why Pinterest + Affiliate Marketing Works So Well

Pinterest isn’t just another platform—it’s a search engine. That means your content doesn’t disappear after a day; it keeps working for you.

People on Pinterest are planners—they’re looking for products and solutions. That means they’re more likely to buy when they find helpful content through your pins.

Affiliate marketing on Pinterest is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make passive income—once you have a strategy in place, it becomes a set-it-and-forget-it system.

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Scale Big

Affiliate marketing on Pinterest doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with one or two affiliate programs, focus on creating helpful content, and track what works.

Once you start seeing results, you can scale by creating more pins, testing different designs, and expanding to new affiliate programs.

✨ If you’ve been wondering if affiliate marketing is worth it—this is your sign to start!

Don’t Forget To Pin It!

How Cloudspot Transformed My Photography Business: A Game-Changer for Professional Photographers

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How Cloudspot Transformed My Photography Business: A Game-Changer for Professional Photographers

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. Rest assured, you’ll receive the best available price. I also don’t share anything I don’t love.

Taking the Leap from Corporate to Creative

In 2009, I took a leap of faith that changed my life forever. After years of grinding away in a demanding corporate job—leaving home before my kids woke up and returning after they were already in bed—I knew something had to change. Photography had been my side hustle for five years, fueling my passion during the off hours.

One day, the scales tipped. I handed in my two weeks’ notice and jumped headfirst into professional photography full-time. Transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship was both exhilarating and intimidating. One of the biggest challenges I faced was finding a comprehensive tool to manage the growing needs of my business.

Discovering Cloudspot.io

In 2017, I discovered Cloudspot.io through Katelyn James’ business program, and it was a total game-changer. From the moment I started using Cloudspot.io, I knew I had found the missing piece in my business. It simplified the complexities of running a photography business while elevating the client experience—something that’s crucial in this industry.

Let me walk you through why Cloudspot.io has become the backbone of my photography business and how it can transform yours too.

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Why Cloudspot.io?

Delivering a seamless and professional experience to clients is paramount in the photography industry. Cloudspot.io offers an all-in-one platform that not only showcases my work beautifully but also streamlines the backend processes that keep my business running smoothly. Here’s how it has transformed my workflow:

1. Stunning Client Galleries

First impressions matter. Cloudspot.io’s customizable gallery options allow me to create a tailored experience for each client. The platform offers a variety of layouts and cover options, making sure my brand and the client’s special moments are showcased in the best possible light.

Clients can easily view, favorite, and download images, making the entire process hassle-free. Plus, I can apply watermarks and let clients select the images they want if a session includes a set number of photos. This not only saves time but also empowers my clients to choose the photos they love most.

2. Seamless Contracts and Invoicing

Gone are the days of juggling multiple tools for contracts and payments. With Cloudspot.io, I can create and send professional contracts that clients can sign electronically on any device.

The Smart Field feature auto-populates client information, reducing errors and saving valuable time. Invoicing is just as streamlined, with online payment options that make transactions smooth for both me and my clients.

3. Comprehensive Client Management

Understanding my clients’ needs is crucial, especially for weddings and branding sessions. Cloudspot.io’s questionnaire feature allows me to gather essential details upfront, ensuring that the shoot aligns perfectly with my client’s vision.

All client interactions and documents are stored in one place, making organization a breeze. No more lost emails or scattered notes—everything is easily accessible and secure.

4. Effortless Scheduling with Mini Sessions

Mini sessions are an excellent way to attract new clients and offer specialized services. Cloudspot.io’s mini session scheduler makes it easy to create, share, and book sessions.

Clients can select time slots, sign contracts, and make payments online—all within a beautifully designed interface. This feature has boosted my booking efficiency and client satisfaction tremendously.

For my branding mini sessions, I even include a document that helps clients identify their ideal client and define their brand colors—helping them stay organized and get the most out of their session.

5. Integrated Calendar Sync

Managing multiple shoots and deadlines can be overwhelming. Cloudspot.io automatically syncs booked sessions with my calendar, ensuring I never miss an appointment. Clients also receive timely reminders, which enhances their overall experience and reduces last-minute cancellations.

The Impact of Cloudspot.io on My Business

Embracing Cloudspot.io has not only streamlined my workflow but also elevated the level of service I provide to my clients. Its comprehensive suite of tools covers both the creative and administrative sides of my business, allowing me to focus on what I love most—capturing moments and telling stories through my lens.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, I highly recommend exploring what Cloudspot.io has to offer. Its blend of aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency is unmatched, making it an invaluable asset to any photography business.

👉 Check out Cloudspot.io and discover how it can transform your photography journey—just like it did for me!

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Mastering Pinterest SEO: A Beginner’s Guide to Boosting Your Visibility

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Mastering Pinterest SEO: A Beginner’s Guide to Boosting Your Visibility

When most people think of Pinterest, they picture beautifully curated boards filled with recipes, DIY projects, and outfit ideas. But for businesses and creators, Pinterest is so much more—it’s a visual search engine with massive potential for driving organic traffic to your website. If you’re not optimizing your Pinterest presence, you’re missing out on a key opportunity to grow your audience.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essential strategies for mastering Pinterest SEO, even if you’re just starting out. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to optimize your profile, pins, and boards to enhance discoverability and drive results.

1. Understanding Pinterest as a Search Engine

Pinterest isn’t just a social media platform; it’s a powerful search engine where users actively seek inspiration, ideas, and solutions.

Think of Pinterest users as proactive searchers, not passive scrollers. They’re typing in keywords like “wedding decor ideas,” “easy weeknight dinners,” or “how to start a podcast.” When you optimize your content with the right keywords, you’re positioning your business to be found by these eager searchers.

Key takeaway: Treat Pinterest like Google but with a visual twist—keywords are your best friend.

2. Optimizing Your Pinterest Profile for SEO

Your Pinterest profile is the foundation of your SEO strategy. A well-optimized profile tells Pinterest (and users) exactly who you are and what value you provide.

Profile Name and Bio:

  • Use a clear, keyword-rich profile name.
    Example: Instead of “Jane Doe,” try “Jane Doe | Wedding Photographer in San Francisco.”
  • Write a concise bio that highlights what you do and includes a primary keyword.
    Example: “Helping brides plan their dream weddings with stunning inspiration and expert tips.”

Profile Picture: Choose a professional and branded profile picture that aligns with your business. Remember people buy from people..

Claim Your Website: Claiming your website not only boosts your credibility but also unlocks valuable insights in Pinterest Analytics. Go to Settings > Claim > Enter your website URL to get started.  You can watch my video on how to do it here.

3. Researching and Using Keywords

Keywords are the backbone of Pinterest SEO. They guide users to your content.

How to Research Keywords:

  • Use the Pinterest search bar to explore popular suggestions. For example, type in “meal planning,” and Pinterest will have a drop down menu and you should grab all those phrases (long tail keywords)..
  • Utilize tools like Pinterest Trends, Google Keyword Planner, or Answer the Public for deeper insights.

Where to Use Keywords:

  • Pin titles and descriptions: Add relevant keywords naturally to describe the content.
    Example: Instead of “My Favorite Dinner,” use “Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights.”
  • Board titles and descriptions: Optimize your board names like “Budget-Friendly Home Decor Ideas” instead of “My Home Stuff.”
  • Profile bio and alt text: Incorporate keywords to describe your images and brand.
  • The Name of Your Pin Graphic: People don’t think about this but what you name a pin that you create is also searchable with those keywords. 
  • Text On The Pin Graphic:  Yes Pinterest can read the words on your pin graphic so use keywords there.

FREE Pinterest Marketing Tools

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Are you ready to effectively use Pinterest marketing to grow your business? Look no further! We’ve curated a collection of over 15 essential Pinterest marketing tools and 8 expert-led masterclasses and challenges, all designed to help you succeed on this dynamic platform.

4. Creating SEO-Friendly Pins

Your pins are the heart of your Pinterest strategy. Make them count.

Design Tips for High-Performing Pins:

Writing Optimized Titles and Descriptions:

  • Titles should be clear, engaging, and keyword-rich.
    Example: “5 Tips for DIY Wedding Centerpieces” is more effective than “DIY Wedding.”
  • Write descriptions that tell a story and include keywords naturally.

5. Optimizing Pinterest Boards for SEO

Your boards are more than a place to save pins—they’re another opportunity to showcase your expertise.

Name Boards Strategically: Instead of generic names like “weddings,” go for specific, searchable names like “Spring Weddings in California”

Write Detailed Board Descriptions: Describe what users can find in the board using relevant keywords.
Example: “Explore modern kitchen designs with sleek appliances, innovative layouts, and space-saving solutions” And use all the 500 characters you are allowed to use different keywords that will result in more eyeballs on your content.

6. Tracking Your SEO Success on Pinterest

Once you’ve optimized your profile and content, track your progress to see what’s working.

Using Pinterest Analytics:

  • Monitor key metrics like impressions, pin clicks, saves, and the most important for businesses using Pinterest to market their business, outbound clicks. Get your free Pinterest Analyzer here.
  • Analyze your top-performing pins to identify trends.

Adjust Your Strategy:

  • Experiment with different keywords and pin designs.
  • See the pins in analytics that get the most outbound clicks and create more pins to that content with new images and keywords
  • Repin high-performing content (after a few months) to keep it active.  This should be done sparingly. Fresh new content is what Pinterest and Pinterest users crave.

7. Common Pinterest SEO Mistakes to Avoid

  • Keyword stuffing: Avoid overloading descriptions with just keywords. It looks spammy and doesn’t help rankings. Write a description that is something your best friend could read and understand.
  • Ignoring trends: Stay updated on Pinterest Trends to discover what’s popular.
  • Neglecting old content: If you have boards you have’t pinned to in 6 months, make pins for that board or consider merging it with another board that is used often.

Take the First Step Toward Pinterest Success

Pinterest SEO may seem overwhelming at first, but by starting with these basics, you’ll be well on your way to driving organic traffic and growing your audience. Remember, it’s all about consistency—optimize your profile, use keywords effectively, and track your results.

Ready to take your Pinterest strategy to the next level?

 Let’s work together to create a tailored plan that drives leads and saves you time.

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

13 | Fun Marketing News January: How to Show Up in AI Search + Stay Ahead in 2025

13 _ Fun Marketing News January 2025_ How to Show Up in AI Search & Stay Ahead in 2025 on Marketing Duo Podcast with hosts Jen Vazquez and Cinthia Pacheco

AI & SEO: The Big Question for 2025

With AI becoming a major player in search and content discovery, business owners and marketers are asking: “How do I show up in AI search results?” Whether it’s ChatGPT, Google Gemini, or AI-powered search tools, the key to ranking remains the same—strong SEO foundations and smart content strategies.

The biggest mistake we see? People assume AI will replace traditional SEO and marketing strategies. The truth is, AI is a tool, not a shortcut. If you’re not already doing SEO well, AI won’t magically make you rank. In this blog (based on our latest Marketing Duo Podcast episode), we break down how to optimize for AI search without ditching the fundamentals of SEO.

Why AI Search Matters in 2025

Search engines are evolving, with AI now curating recommendations, snippets, and direct responses to queries. Businesses need to rethink their content strategy to align with these changes.

Key shifts happening in AI-driven search:

✔ AI-generated answers are prioritizing high-quality, authoritative content.
Schema markup, FAQ sections, and structured content are crucial for AI visibility.
✔ AI is pulling information from multiple sources—meaning backlinks and mentions matter more than ever.

5 SEO & AI Optimization Strategies for 2025

1. Strengthen Your Topical Authority

AI prefers sources that demonstrate expertise over time. That means regularly publishing high-quality content on your core topics—whether it’s through blogs, podcasts, or video content.

2. Optimize for AI Chatbots & Search Assistants

Search assistants like Google Bard and ChatGPT are using structured data (like FAQ schema and featured snippets) to find the best answers. Make sure your website includes clear, structured content that AI can easily pull from.

3. Leverage AI Tools for Content Creation

Tools like Notebook LM (a new AI-powered research assistant by Google) can summarize content, generate ideas, and even create scripts for podcasts and videos. AI won’t replace creativity, but it can save hours of work when used strategically.

4. Build Stronger Backlinks & Brand Mentions

AI search engines prioritize trusted sources. Make sure your business is getting:
Mentioned on other websites and blogs
Tagged in guest podcast appearances
Featured in relevant industry discussions

5. Use AI as a Productivity Booster, Not a Replacement

AI tools can help with content creation, social media planning, and automation—but they should enhance your marketing, not replace it. Human creativity is still essential for engagement and connection.

The Future of AI, SEO & Marketing

AI is evolving fast, and 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for digital marketing. While AI will continue to change how we discover content, the fundamentals of SEO, branding, and authority-building remain the same.

Want to learn more? Tune into the Marketing Duo Podcast for monthly AI, SEO, and marketing insights. Follow us on Instagram at @marketingduopodcast and let us know how you’re adapting to the AI-driven future!

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11 | Planning, Visioning, and Goals – Oh My! Setting Your Business Up for Success in 2025

Pinterest pin with text:  Year in Review 2024 + 2025 on the Marketing Duo Podcast with hosts Cinthia Pacheco of Digital Bloom IQ and Jen Vazquez of Jen Vazquez Media

As 2025 begins, entrepreneurs everywhere are setting intentions, reflecting on the past year, and strategizing for a successful year ahead. In our latest podcast episode, we explored the importance of planning, visioning, and goal-setting to build a sustainable and thriving business.

Here are the highlights from our conversation and practical tips to help you create a roadmap for success in 2025.

Lessons from 2024: Challenges and Wins

The past year presented unique challenges for small and medium-sized businesses. From economic uncertainty to increased scrutiny over expenses, business owners tightened their budgets and refined their priorities. While it was a tougher year to win new business, many entrepreneurs found that consistency and intentionality led to unexpected growth.

One key takeaway: hard work pays off over time. The snowball effect of years of effort often becomes apparent during challenging times. Whether it’s maintaining a consistent blog, repurposing content, or refining workflows, staying committed to your strategy builds momentum.

What Worked in 2024: Consistency and Focus

1. Content Creation

Consistently publishing weekly blogs, videos, and emails was a game-changer. Regular content not only nurtures your audience but also builds authority and trust over time. Many business owners found success by revisiting old content, repurposing it, and giving it new life.

2. Email Marketing

Email continues to deliver strong results. By nurturing your audience with consistent emails and valuable content, you can drive more engagement and conversions. Cleaning up email lists and maintaining a clear, intentional strategy made a noticeable difference.

3. Simplified Workflows

Breaking down processes and focusing on efficiency saved time and energy. By streamlining content creation workflows, business owners reclaimed hours that could be reinvested into growth-oriented activities.

Looking Ahead: Vision and Goals for 2025

1. Embrace Planning and Flexibility

Planning doesn’t have to feel rigid. Instead of locking in an annual plan, consider setting high-level monthly themes and goals. This approach allows flexibility while providing a clear focus for each month. Use tools like Asana or Trello to centralize your plans and stay organized.

2. Prioritize Intentionality Over Hustle

2025 is about working smarter, not harder. Block out time for deep work, creative thinking, and rest. Schedule intentional breaks, family time, and even personal self-care activities like hair or lash appointments to create balance and clarity.

3. Commit to Selling

One of the most significant insights from last year was the realization that consistent selling drives revenue growth. Whether you’re launching a new service, offering an evergreen course, or promoting products, plan regular campaigns to keep your business top of mind.

Practical Steps for Planning in 2025

Start with Your Calendar

Begin by marking personal priorities, like vacations and family commitments. Then, add key business events such as product launches, campaigns, or live events. Use a large visual calendar for brainstorming, then translate it into your preferred digital tool.

Batch Content Creation

Dedicate two days each month to content planning and creation. Whether it’s blogs, videos, or social media posts, batching ensures you stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed.

Refine Your Offerings

Look at your services and products. Is there something new you’d like to launch? Could you refine an existing offering to make it more appealing or accessible? Focus on creating value and aligning your offerings with your audience’s needs.

Simplify Workflows

Evaluate your tools and processes. Are there areas where you can improve efficiency? For example, using project management tools like Asana can keep your team aligned and reduce the chaos of juggling multiple priorities.

2025: A Year for Intentional Growth

2025 is the year to lean into clarity, purpose, and intentionality. Whether you’re building on momentum from 2024 or starting fresh with new goals, the key is to create a system that works for you. Stay consistent, embrace flexibility, and don’t be afraid to refine your strategies along the way.

How are you planning for success in 2025? Share your goals and strategies with us on Instagram at the Marketing Duo Podcast, and let’s build a thriving community of business owners who support and inspire each other.

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Here is more information that may be helpful!