The Dearden Diaries

Writing my way around the world, The Dearden Diaries is where I share my adventures, travel inspiration, and creative marketing strategies to help you grow your business.

Browse the posts below or read more about a specific topic.

Marketing Laura Bryan Marketing Laura Bryan

Mini Marketing Case Study: A-Frame Sign

Marketing doesn’t need to be digital or expensive to be effective | Real-world marketing examples, insights, and strategies to help you grow your business. Learn from successful campaigns, discover what works, and apply actionable takeaways to your own marketing.

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Women's Stories Laura Bryan Women's Stories Laura Bryan

Women’s Only Hostel: Margo Lopyreva

WOH proves that women-only spaces don’t need to come with a “pink tax.” It challenges the outdated notion that creating something specifically for women must come at a higher cost. By designing a space that’s safe, affordable, and welcoming, Margo has set a new standard for hostels worldwide.

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Marketing Laura Bryan Marketing Laura Bryan

The Dearden Group’s 2025 Marketing Predictions

The marketing landscape is evolving rapidly, but one thing remains constant: authenticity wins. By embracing new platforms, understanding emerging generations, and focusing on genuine connection, marketers can stay ahead in 2025. So here’s to a year of innovation, creativity, and, above all, authenticity.

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Travel Laura Bryan Travel Laura Bryan

London or Edinburgh for Christmas: Which City Is Better?

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and if you’re planning a festive trip to the UK, chances are you’re debating between London and Edinburgh. Both cities deck themselves out in lights and cheer for the holiday season, but they offer very different vibes. So which one is better for you?

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Marketing Laura Bryan Marketing Laura Bryan

Why The Jaguar Rebrand is Failing – And What You Can Learn From It

Last month, Jaguar rolled out a bold rebrand alongside the unveiling of their future car model, sparking heated debates online. Loyal customers are upset, critics are buzzing, and the rebrand is being widely regarded as a misstep. But let’s break it down: What went wrong, and what lessons can small business owners take from this high-profile flop?

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Travel Laura Bryan Travel Laura Bryan

Planning A Trip To València, Spain: Everything You Need To See and Do

My friend Niah and I decided we needed to leave the grey United Kingdom and get one last dose of Vitamin D before hunkering down for a long winter. Despite our extensive travel experience, neither of us had ever been to Spain so it seemed like the obvious choice. After some quick research, we landed on the city of València – thanks to its direct flights from both London and Edinburgh and its proximity to the beach. 

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Travel Laura Bryan Travel Laura Bryan

7 Things I Learned At This Year’s World Travel Market

The World Travel Market (WTM) is an annual gathering of the travel industry's most influential people, innovators, and organizations. It’s a hub for discussing new ideas, driving innovation, and collaborating on the future of travel. This year, WTM hosted over 4,000 exhibitors from 184 countries and welcomed more than 40,000 visitors eager to explore the latest in travel.

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Travel Laura Bryan Travel Laura Bryan

Halloween in Edinburgh: Spooky Season Fun

Draped in gold and crimson, the already enchanting city comes alive at Halloween. As the crisp fall air nips at your cheeks, there’s an unmistakable shift in the atmosphere – the veil between this world and the next grows thin. Mist clings to the spires of the gothic architecture and a sense of mystery lingers in every shadow. Ghosts from the city’s haunted past lay waiting to be discovered. It’s like Edinburgh was made for Halloween. 

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Travel Laura Bryan Travel Laura Bryan

Is This Your Last Chance To Hold A Koala?

Chances are you’ve seen celebrities—from Taylor Swift to popes and presidents—posing with a cuddly koala in their arms on a visit to Australia. I’ve even done it myself! But could I be among one of the last tourists to have this experience with the famous marsupial?

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Marketing Laura Bryan Marketing Laura Bryan

6 Things the World’s Most Valuable Brands Have in Common (And How You Can Do the Same)

These massive brands aren’t successful by accident. They’ve built loyal followings, become household names, and stay profitable because they understand one key thing: how to connect with their customers. The good news? You don’t need a multi-million dollar budget to use their strategies. Even small businesses can apply the same tactics that help these giants dominate the market.

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Travel Laura Bryan Travel Laura Bryan

The Perfect Three-Week New Zealand Itinerary: North & South Island

With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse natural beauty, and endless adventures, it's no wonder so many dream of visiting New Zealand. Having spent six months exploring New Zealand, I've crafted the perfect three-week itinerary that blends iconic sights, hidden gems, and thrilling activities to ensure you experience the best of both the North and South Islands.

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Marketing Laura Bryan Marketing Laura Bryan

SEO For Beginners: Answering All Your Questions

SEO — it’s one of those buzzwords everyone seems to throw around, but how many people actually understand it? If you’ve been hearing about SEO and wondering what the fuss is all about, you’re in the right place. We’re here to answer your questions and demystify SEO in an easy-to-digest way!

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Marketing Laura Bryan Marketing Laura Bryan

How To Write an Impressive LinkedIn Bio

Imagine being a recruiter tasked with reviewing candidates. After glancing at a dozen LinkedIn profiles, do you think your bio will be memorable? With job postings attracting easily 100 applicants in the first 24 hours, standing out is crucial.

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Marketing Laura Bryan Marketing Laura Bryan

Marketing with AI in 2024

You’ve probably pondered the question, “Will robots take my job?” With AI integration increasing in companies across the globe and user-friendly AI tools like Open AI’s ChatGPT, Grammarly’s generative AI, and Canvas’ Magic Design tool, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to escape its influence.

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