Author Interview:  Nardia Plumridge

How would you describe the type of books/genre you write?

I write traditional travel journalism with a focus on boutique and independent travel. The little backstreets, artisan stores, and local foodie joints offering a true essence of a city or country.

What motivated you to start writing?

During university it became very clear – I love to write, adore magazines and had an avid interest in photography. So working in publishing seemed the next step. I have a curious nature and love exploring so travel became an organic go-to for ideas and articles.

Tell us the journey you went on to get your books published (e.g. direct on your website, self-published, assisted-publishing, traditional publisher)

It started by creating website, Lost in Florence, which was to showcase the independent artisan stores of the Tuscan capital. I didn’t see anywhere else showcasing these venues in a concise way. Most information was generic with most guidebooks detailing all the popular sights and cultural pursuits. I wanted to lead readers to the lesser travelled parts and places in the city. Having a niche certainly helps (in my opinion) and from here I developed a social media following. So starting my own website purely for passion, yet with a purpose, was my beginning and helped shape the book before it was in print.

What publishing elements do you most enjoy and most like to avoid, and why? (e.g. design, marketing, formatting etc.)

The creative planning and writing I thrive on. That’s my skill set and I don’t feel I can do it all – which is why I don’t self publish, it’s too overwhelming to me. I love to collaborate with creatives so going down a traditional publishing route was always my dream to have an editor and publisher to bounce ideas off.

As for parts I prefer to avoid, the marketing side is not my forte yet these days you have to be willing to be the writer, PR, marketeer and event organiser all in one regardless of whether you self publish or go down a more traditional route. Be prepared to be involved in all elements of book making if you truly wish to succeed.

With the hindsight of being a published author, anything you would have done differently?

I understand the editing timeline process better, so this makes my approach much more streamlined. I assumed once I submitted my manuscript I’d have a few weeks grace before feedback and edits began but no, they came through immediately with amendments required ASAP. I was travelling at the time so it was a crazy few weeks. So my learning is: set aside these months from submission to print for editing as it takes longer than you think.

What marketing or promotional tools or techniques do you use to reach your readers?

Using my own social media channels first and foremost. Then reaching out to people I know who would genuinely enjoy the book. If they like it, hopefully they will share with their followers however I never expect anything in return. There are never ‘deals’ or any pressure. I believe in authentic engagement. Also, creating events helps to drive a ‘story’ around your book release that can be both fun to do and help drive engagement, so liaise with a few venues to see if you can host an event together.

What impact do you want your books to have on your readers?

To discover the true essence of a city and create memorable travel experiences away from the tourist masses. Florence is a major tourist centre and you can easily get swamped in the main attractions and miss it’s true beauty – the artisan stores, backstreets and little independent ateliers that offer a true Italian adventure.

What’s your book’s elevator pitch or key selling points?

Lost in Florence takes you to the places beyond the tourist spots ideal for the curious traveller who wishes to discover the unexpected. Go beyond the facade of the palazzi and the cobbled pavements to discover a city rich with a creative energy and unique outlets by new designers and artisans of style. An indispensable book for anyone visiting, or living, in Florence.

What’s next on your writing journey?

I have a tonne of freelance writing commission to do – both to support the book and other work for travel adventures around the globe. I am evolving ‘Lost in’, which was always my plan, to be beyond Italy, with Lost in the Cities that is a website and podcast filled with tips and travel tricks with a continued focus on chic, boutique, and unique venues in major cities.

Want to be Lost too?

About the Author

Nardia Plumridge is a travel and lifestyle writer who regularly contributes to print and online publications in the UK, US and Australia. Her new book, Lost in Florence unlocks the city’s secrets, so in no time you’ll be living like a local. As a journalist, she combines her passion for the city and its people with the pursuit of ‘la dolce vita’.