Well, it's been four weeks since we launched the first ever awards for UK Mummy and Daddy bloggers.
We have been absolutely blown away by the response. We've had 10,000 visitors to the MADs website, and more than 2,300 people took the time to nominate their favourite MAD Bloggers for the awards.
When we set up the awards, everyone involved worked really hard to create something that everyone could get involved in, and I think we've achieved that – with more than 500 different blogs receiving nominations. I know that a couple of bloggers were concerned that the MADs would be too competitive, but everyone who has taken part has been so positive, supportive and enthusiastic that it's been really good fun for us, as organisers, to watch.
So, a huge thanks to you if you nominated, if you wrote a post, Tweeted about us, or displayed one of our badges. Thanks to Ellie, Karin and Josie for their help, and to all of our gorgeous sponsors, especially the team at Butlins.
What happens now?
The nominations have all been checked and counted tonight, and we're now finalising the shortlists of finalists. Over the next week, we will verify that the shortlisted blogs are eligible for the awards, and that the bloggers concerned are happy to take part in the next stage of the MADs. We will then upload details of the finalists to the MADs website, and we will publish the shortlists of five blogs for each category on Monday morning.
The "Nominate" badges will be updated to "Vote Now!" badges in the next couple of days, and we'd love if you could keep the badge on your blog to encourage your readers to get involved and support their favourite blogs. You're free to keep your "Nominated" Badge, although we'll send you a new shiny "Finalist" badge if you make a shortlist.
Having looked at the results tonight, I can tell you there are some amazing, amazing blogs in our finals. Really. When the finalists are announced on Monday, I urge to to take the time to explore those blogs before voting – you won't be sorry! You'll be able to vote for your favourite blog in 9 categories, and voting is open for four weeks. The winners of the MADs will be announced at the MADs Awards Ceremony, details of which will be announced in a couple of weeks.
Thanks again.
