A Quick Note Before We Begin (Affiliate Disclosure)
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely like and would buy for myself. Your support helps keep Around Dusty Roads going, and I truly appreciate it.
Why I Gave Affiliate Marketing Another Try
I’ll be honest — I was pretty bummed when Amazon “fired” me from their affiliate program. I can’t say I was shocked, though. They’re so big they can afford to toss out the little guys without blinking. Their rule is simple: you have six months to generate three qualified sales. I know at least one friend ordered through my link, but apparently it didn’t count. Eventually the email arrived: Sorry, you’re out.
For a while, I figured that was the end of affiliate marketing for me. But then I started hearing about other programs — ones that actually welcome smaller bloggers. I thought, Why not try again? So I signed up.
The Rollercoaster of Getting Approved
At first, it felt like déjà vu. The parent network approved me, but the first few advertisers turned me down. Discouraged, I set it aside… until the emails started coming in. One approval. Then another. Then a third.
Suddenly, I wasn’t out in the cold anymore. Somebody out there thinks I can do this — and that little boost of confidence goes a long way.
Finding the Right Balance for Around Dusty Roads
Now I’m exploring ways to share my links without turning Around Dusty Roads into an infomercial. My goal is to keep the heart of the blog intact — the sights, scenes, and everyday adventures that make this space feel like home — while weaving in product recommendations that genuinely fit my life.
A photography company recently invited me to join their affiliate program, which feels like a step in exactly the right direction. And if any kitchen stores out there have affiliate programs, I’m all ears — I can already picture those links nestled into my recipe posts.
My Promise to You
If I include an affiliate link, it’s for a product I truly like and would buy myself. I hope you’ll keep that in mind, click a link now and then, and maybe even discover something special for yourself.
My Current Affiliate Partners
I’m excited to share that I’m now working with three advertisers — and hoping to add more as I go:
Promeed
A home goods company with a beautiful Mulberry Silk bedding line.
King Koil
Makers of genuinely great air mattresses. I’ve been impressed.
King Koil Air Mattress
VSGO
A camera gear company. I’m currently promoting their Black Snipe Pro Camera Backpack, which looks like a fantastic value — and I’ve been hunting for a new camera backpack myself.
Where This Journey Goes Next
So that’s where I am on this new adventure. I’m learning, experimenting, and trying to keep things fun and balanced — just like always.
Have any of you tried affiliate marketing? I’d love to hear how it went for you.