Evergreen Email Sequences vs. Email Newsletters: Why Food Bloggers Need Both
Learn the difference between evergreen email sequences and email newsletters, and how food bloggers can effectively implement both. This comprehensive guide breaks down each strategy's unique benefits, provides actionable implementation steps, and demonstrates how combining these two approaches can turn your email list into loyal, engaged fans.
If social media disappeared tomorrow, how would you reach your readers?
Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways for food bloggers to connect with their audience, with average ROIs exceeding 3800%. Unlike social media platforms that come and go (remember Vine and MySpace?), your email list is an asset you own completely.
Here's why this matters:
The names on your email list belong to you and travel with you anywhere
Your email subscribers represent your true fans who deserve royal treatment
These loyal readers become your first viewers, traffic drivers, and engagement boosters
Food bloggers have two powerful tools at their disposal to nurture these relationships: evergreen email sequences and email newsletters. While these strategies require different approaches, they work together to build your blog's authority and audience connection.
What's the difference between evergreen sequences and email newsletters?
Evergreen email sequences are automated series of timeless, pre-written emails that deliver consistent value to subscribers regardless of when they join your list. They work in the background 24/7, nurturing new subscribers and guiding them toward your best content without requiring ongoing maintenance.
Email newsletters are regular, manually sent communications that share current updates, seasonal content, and personal insights with your entire list. They provide real-time connection and allow you to respond to trends, seasons, and new developments in your blog and business.
Evergreen email sequences: a set-it-and-forget-it powerhouse
What is an evergreen email sequence?
If you’re wondering how to create an email newsletter that works long after you hit send, the first step is to set up an evergreen email sequence. These sequences are automated, timeless emails (sometimes called a "forever series") that continue delivering value to new subscribers week after week, making them a must-have tool in your newsletter marketing strategy.
These emails typically go out on a set schedule—usually one per week—and address common questions while linking to your most valuable content.
The beauty of evergreen sequences is that once they're set up, they continue working for you automatically, delivering consistent value to subscribers regardless of when they join your list.
How many emails should be in an evergreen sequence?
The ideal length depends on your goals, but I recommend creating a sequence that runs for at least 3-6 months. Since these emails are intentionally brief (100-200 words), writing several months' worth won't be overly time-consuming.
An automated sequence ensures your audience still hears from you during weeks when you skip sending a newsletter, maintaining consistent engagement.
How to write an evergreen email sequence
State a common problem or ask a question relevant to your audience
Relate to the problem ("trust me, I've been there!")
Link the solution to your content/recipe with compelling benefits
Include visual elements like images and buttons to encourage clicks
For example, an evergreen email might begin with: "Struggling to get that perfect crispy crust on your homemade pizza? I spent years testing techniques until I discovered this foolproof method..." before linking to your definitive pizza crust recipe.
Looking for more guidance? Check out my detailed guide on evergreen email marketing for food bloggers.
Email newsletters: real-time connection that builds loyalty
What is an email newsletter?
Email newsletters are messages sent to your entire list, typically containing more personal or seasonal content. They give your audience a chance to connect with you beyond recipes—sharing your personality, current projects, and timely recommendations.
Unlike evergreen sequences, newsletters aren't automated and can be sent whenever you have updates or according to a consistent schedule.
The importance of a consistent email newsletter strategy
While not every food blogger needs to send weekly newsletters, consistency remains crucial. Whether you choose weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly sending, stick to your schedule to build audience expectations and trust.
Regular communication establishes you as a reliable authority in your niche, gradually converting passive subscribers into dedicated fans. Learn more about the different types of emails bloggers can send.
Keep newsletters fresh with seasonal updates and timely links. For example:
“This week's fresh picks: Spring salads to brighten your menu.”
(Include links to your latest salad recipes — think strawberry spinach, herby couscous, or zesty quinoa bowls.)
Concrete examples like these help readers visualize what their newsletter can look like — and encourage clicks.
Email newsletter content ideas for food bloggers
Think of your newsletter as a lifestyle extension of your blog. Include enough personal touches to build connection without straying into content your audience won't relate to.
Along with featuring recent recipes, consider including:
Seasonal menu suggestions
Weekly meal plans with shopping lists
Recipe collections for upcoming holidays
Behind-the-scenes cooking fails or successes
Culinary travel plans or restaurant recommendations
Sources of inspiration and what you're currently cooking
Newsletter Best Practices
Before you hit ‘send,’ make sure you’re following these newsletter best practices:
✔️ Personalize your greeting
✔️ Use curiosity-driven subject lines
✔️ Include one clear CTA
✔️ Keep design simple and mobile-friendly
✔️ Always add value
Why food bloggers need both email strategies
Evergreen sequences and newsletters complement each other perfectly in a comprehensive email strategy:
Evergreen emails warm up new subscribers, introducing them to your best content systematically
Newsletters maintain real-time engagement, keeping your brand top-of-mind
Think of it this way: evergreen emails are your welcome mat, while newsletters are your living room conversation. Together, they create a complete subscriber experience that nurtures relationships at every stage.
How to get started with both email strategies
Begin with a simple 3-5 email evergreen welcome sequence
Introduce yourself and your blog
Share your 2-3 most popular recipes
Ask a question to encourage engagement
Commit to a sustainable newsletter schedule
Start with monthly if you're new to newsletters
Create a content calendar for consistency
Batch-write newsletters to save time
Use the right tools
Popular email platforms like Kit, Flodesk, or MailerLite offer both automation and broadcast capabilities
Create templates to streamline your process
Transform your email strategy
Food bloggers can benefit tremendously from having both a consistent email newsletter and an automated email sequence as part of their marketing strategy. Both can help build a loyal fanbase, drive web traffic, increase engagement, and grow your business in sustainable ways.
The best approach is to start small, remain consistent, and let both systems work together to nurture relationships with your audience.
Ready to build a list of loyal readers who click, cook, and come back for more? You can hire me to write your sequences and newsletters for you or DIY your email content using my ChatGPT email prompts for food bloggers.
