When I started blogging there were a handful of bloggers I leaned on for advice, tips, and just regular everyday inspiration. Leslie Hendricks Young, founder of Bloggers Like Me (BLM Girls) and Fashion Du Jour was one of those few people. She’s still someone (and one of the few bloggers) I can call a friend to this day. The BLM Girls is a collaborative of women sharing ideas, building relationships, and celebrating each other through blogging, social media and meet ups. Leslie is not only the head of this ever-growing community, but she’s also the mother of 4 beautiful children, the God-fearing wife of a preacher, freelance writer, blogger, and stylish women entrepreneur on the go living in California.
Leslie is truly a woman of God and lives her life with purpose. She’s done an outstanding job of bringing together a community of female bloggers and given us a platform to talk and grow through the world of blogging, business and much more. I’ve worked with Leslie on several occasions and she’s always full of wonderful ideas and is ready and willing to help others at a moments notice. She loves being a mommy and a wife and I’m forever grateful for her advice on how to maneuver through life as a young newly married Christian wife. She is without a doubt a #FearlessWoman and it’s a pleasure to introduce her to you all. Enjoy the interview and be inspired!
What’s a typical day for Leslie?
A typical day begins with getting out of bed, washing my face brushing my teeth and drinking a bottle of water. I make myself a cup of coffee, say a short prayer and begin waking the kids up.
What inspired you to create Fashion Du Jour and Bloggers Like Me (BLM)?
I was inspired to create Fashion Du Jour because I’ve always enjoyed dressing up and I wanted to begin documenting my outfits. I also wanted to share spiritual tidbits with women and thought using fashion as a vehicle would make sense. I started Bloggers Like Me because I found that there were so many successful bloggers who I could not relate to. From what it appeared, they had money to blow and no responsibilities. I could not relate. It was a struggle to find other bloggers who were living my reality so one day I decided to start a group for bloggers like me.
Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?
I am inspired by many women for different reasons. I am inspired by Michelle Obama for her courage to be herself even when the whole world wants her to conform to be and acting like someone she’s not. Case in point, her appearance on Black Girls Rock. I am inspired by mothers/wives raising families with 4 or more kids in a loving and patient way! Period. There’s nothing more to be said. Third, I admire my mom. She got saved in her latter years and has changed her life. I am proud of her and I thank God that she now knows in whom her trust and faith should lie.
One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?
A piece of advice for women entrepreneurs is to never stop learning and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There’s power in setting your pride to the side.
What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?
My definition of a #FearlessWoman is someone who knows who she is and where she’s going.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years from now, I see myself in better shape in every area of my life. I will have a strengthened family, faith, healthy and purpose. I will continue to put in the daily effort it takes to get there.
How can we keep up with you?
Blog // BLM Girls // Facebook // Twitter
