Join me on Patreon

Let’s enjoy Shetland together

Why Patreon?

Patreon, for me, was a happy accident. It started as the world we knew came crashing down around us in 2020, and all my tours were cancelled, which saw my income plummet with the announcement that the world was to go into lockdown. To try and salvage my business and income, my Patreon site was born. Fast-forward two years, and I now have almost 100 loyal patrons and a vibrant community of people who share a love of Shetland. I couldn’t imagine not having it now!

What is Patreon?

Good question – and one that I’m often asked. Patreon is a membership platform that gives patrons – that’s you, I hope – exclusive access to otherwise unpublished material. For creators, Patreon is a way to get paid for the things that we create. Patrons pay a few pounds a month and benefit from exclusive content, while creators can earn a little to create that content. Patreon is a way to join your favourite creator’s community and pay them for making the stuff you love.

I love creating content, and as much as I wish I could do it for free, there are always bills to pay, and content creation takes time and money. Blogging quickly becomes expensive, with subscriptions, editing software and all the hidden costs of running an online business. Patron support helps soften that blow!

“We write to taste life twice, in the moment, and in retrospect”

Anais Nin

What I offer patrons:

Patrons receive exclusive access to unpublished content, including:

  • Monthly Video tours around Shetland featuring walks, holiday accommodation, things to do and places to visit. Each film is around 45-minutes long and has in-depth travel advice and insights into the culture and heritage of the islands.

  • A series of patron-only podcasts answering frequently asked questions about visiting Shetland, including:

    • What’s the best way to get to Shetland?

    • What should I pack and wear while in Shetland?

    • What are some unmissable experiences in Shetland?

    • What are the best and worst things about living in Shetland?

    • Is it necessary to have a car?

    • Where are the best places to eat local seafood?

    • What’s the best month to come to avoid the crowds?

    • Is housing expensive to buy and rent?

    • Is there a rivalry between Shetland and Orkney, or do you feel a particular kinship?

    • Driving in Shetland

    • Are there any internal flights in Shetland?

    • Can I see the northern lights in Shetland?

    • Is tipping expected in Shetland?

    • How much is accommodation in Shetland?

    • How much does it cost to eat and drink in Shetland?

    • How much time do I need to spend in Shetland?

    • Are there midges in Shetland?

    • My favourite things about living in Shetland

    • What language do you speak in Shetland?

    • More about Shetland's weather!

    • When is the best time to visit Shetland?

    •  ... and many, many more!

  • A series of itineraries covering all areas of Shetland, whether you have a day, or a week, these itineraries provide accommodation suggestions, foodie favourites and places to visit, walk or hike.

  • Quarterly Zoom Planning Parties where patrons can grill me and help plan their Shetland adventure.

  • Various essays and blogs about Shetland that have not been published elsewhere.

Much of what I do, including my blog and podcast, would not be possible without the support of my patrons.

Generating an income from Patreon allows me to run my blog, including buying all the hardware and software associated with content creation.

Writing is my dream, a dream that would not be possible without patron support. So for that, heartfelt thanks to all my existing patrons.

I am eternally grateful!

Membership tiers explained

Official Patron

£3/month

Includes:

  • Monthly video tour

All-access Patron

£9/month

Includes:

  • Exclusive content to material unpublished on the blog

  • Access to private online Facebook group

  • 10% discount on bookings

  • Quarterly zoom chats

  • Free monthly itinerary

  • Monthly video tour

VIP Patron

£15/month

Includes:

  • Free walking tour for up to 4 people

  • Exclusive content to material unpublished on the blog

  • 20% discount on bookings

  • Access to private online Facebook group

  • Quarterly zoom chats

  • Free monthly itinerary

  • Monthly video tour

 
 

What my patrons are saying

  • “My husband and I joined Patreon to help plan a trip to Shetland. It’s been really helpful for us to get travel tips and ideas on how to spend our time when visiting Shetland. We know of no one else personally who has visited Shetland, so Laurie’s information and that of other travellers who have been there has been invaluable to us!”

    Julie and Greg