Whitney, Author at Whitney Nic James

Spiritual Wellness | 7 Ways to Detox Your Life

July 29, 2014 by Whitney 9 Comments

I’m a firm believer that every now and then, detoxing your life (in some way) is necessary. It’s no surprise this topic has been on my mind for a while. Every year around this time, I find myself reflecting a bit more and focusing on positive change. As I approach 28, my goal is to continue living a happy and healthy life, as well as (gradually) adopting a more simple lifestyle. Detoxing your life is a sure way to ensure such lifestyle. Check out 7 easy ways to detox your life.

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1. Pray. Before I make any changes in my life, I pray about it. Praying for guidance and clarity while detoxing your life will help keep you on the right track during this process.

2. Clear out clutter. This is something I’m in the process of doing. From your closet to the kitchen cabinets to your garage – whatever you’re not using, throw it out! If it’s old clothes, donate them to the Goodwill or Salvation Army. If it’s canned food, donate to a food pantry. Junk in the garage? Call a junk trunk to come haul it out. Clear out the clutter and prepare for a fresh start.

3. Edit Your Surroundings – Sometimes the reason we’re stuck in neutral or even reverse is due to the company we keep. When you succeed, not everyone is happy about that. Be careful of the company you keep and be careful who you share things with. I’m a firm believer in energy and some people know how to suck all the good energy out of you. You do not need people like that rallying behind you. Pray for positive people to enter into your life and embrace their positive energy. Their way of thinking or habits may be a good influence on you.

7 Ways to Detox Your Life #selfcare

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5. Unplug. Not having your cell phone within arms reach may cause some to go into a state of shock, I get it. But I believe it’s a necessary step if you’re trying to detox your life. Whatever picture you want to like, upload or retweet will be there tomorrow. Just take a break from the phone and social media for a while and enjoy your surroundings. Become more present and connected with the people around you like your spouse, family, and friends.

6. Keep it to yourself. What did we do before social media sharing? We kept things to ourselves and enjoyed life’s moments with those who were there with us. If you really want to share certain moments, like vacations and special date nights, snap a pic and share it later. While you’re in the moment, be in that moment. Enjoy yourself and the people around you.

7. Move your body. Become more active by taking a walk, a jog, signing up for a yoga class…just something that gets you up and moving! Moving and doing certain activities gives you energy and makes you feel alive.

So tell me, what are some ways you detox your life? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading. Your comments and feedback are awesome, so be sure to share your detox tips with me! 🙂 Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe!

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11 Reasons Why You Should Be Thrifting

July 24, 2014 by Whitney 12 Comments

Happy Thrifty Thursday, friends! I want to jump right in today, so I’ll cut to the chase. Yes, I love to thrift and you know it. Of course, thrifting saves money and thrifting can also be a joyous “treasure hunt”, once you get the hang of it. But why should YOU start, if you haven’t already? Glad you asked! 😉 Here are 11 Reasons Why You Should Be Thrifting.

1. Create Your Own Style | Thrift stores have a plethora of items from all decades/eras. Rummaging through and finding different prints, materials, and designers to fall in love with is the start to creating your own (unique) personal style.

2. QUALITY Materials and Brands | Unlike a lot of trendy clothing stores and brands, thrift stores have a great selection of clothes made of materials like silk, cashmere, and sturdy cotton that will indeed last a long time. I’ve stumbled upon brands and designers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Escada, Brooks Brothers and Corbin – all high quality and at unbelievable price points.

3. Home Decor GALORE. If you’re looking to furnish or decorate your new or current home, thrift stores are gold mines for plates, placements, rugs, lamps, etc. I found a set of dishes (including salt and pepper shakers) for $8 – all of the dishes were intact!

11 reasons you should be thrifting! #thriftwithnic

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4. You’re Doing a Good Deed | Did you know that Salvation Army stores donate their profits to certain charities? According to the Goodwill of Greater Washington‘s mission statement, they’re dedicated to “transforming lives and communities through the power of education and employment.”

5. Great Hobby for Collectors | If you’re into collecting items like old albums, jewelry, ties, etc. thrift stores are the place for you – It’s literally a collectors paradise!

6. Vintage is Always in Style | Vintage clothing options are plentiful at most thrift stores. Certain vintage items are true statement items that will never go out of style. Trust me, every closet needs a few statement pieces.

7. Book Lover’s Dream | If you’re an avid reader, a lot of thrift stores have really amazing collections of older novels, how-to books, cookbooks, children’s books and more. Whatever your interest, I’m sure you can find a book about it!

8. Good Deals Every Time You Shop | You don’t have to wait for a holiday or use a special coupon. More than likely any day you deiced to go thrifting, you’re going to find unbeatable deals! **Most thrift stores have certain markdown/sale days too – just ask! **

9. Dress the Man in Your Life | Men’s clothes are usually more expensive than women’s clothes. Thrift stores seem to always have a variety of suits, ties, coats and dress shoes for men. My hubby found a 2 piece suit at the Goodwill in Annandale, VA for $20. The suit had never been worn (still had tags) and was in impeccable condition. #WINNING

10. Buy and Resell | It’s no secret that a lot of online entrepreneurs use the thrift store to purchase valuable items at a discount price to resell. Places like eBay and Etsy are great sites to give reselling certain thrifted items a try.

11.It’s Fun | Just trust me on this one!

So tell me, have I convinced you to start thrifitng yet? 😉 What’s the latest item(s) you’ve found while thrifting? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Style + Lifestyle Feature: Alison of Get Your Pretty On

July 16, 2014 by Whitney 11 Comments

Hey, hey! 🙂 Today I’m introducing you to another featured blogger for the #summerwithnic series! While I’ve never met this blogger in person, I can assure that Alison of Get Your Pretty On is one of the sweetest bloggers I’ve worked with and met via-internet. Her kindspirit and great style come across in all her posts, and I’m sure you’ll get the same vibes when reading her interview. Enjoy! 🙂

ABOUT ALISON + HER STYLE

Where are you from and what’s your occupation?

I’m a mom of three and former actress/print model turned virtual stylist/blogger. I live in a suburb of Dallas, TX with my hubby, our three kiddos and our golden retriever.

How do you define your personal style?

My basic everyday style is casual chic with some fun and trendy touches.

What are your 5 must have wardrobe items for the summer?

Maxi dress, maxi dress, maxi dress, maxi dress, maxi dress. No, just kidding! Although I could live in them.

– Maxi Dresses

– Metallic Sandals

– Fedora

– Bright Tees and Tanks

-Printed Shorts

Name 5 must have wardrobe staples every woman should own?

– A great pair of riding boots

– A fabulous trench coat

– A pair of dark wash skinny jeans that fit like a glove

– A well-made handbag

– Lots of scarves

ABOUT GET YOUR PRETTY ON (GYPO)

How long have you been a blogger?

I started GYPO in September of 2012.

What inspired you to start GYPO?

After falling into a mom rut of wearing only yoga pants all day, every day, I was inspired to do something about my wardrobe. GYPO gave me the accountability that I needed to get dressed every day and feel pretty again!

Where do you see GYPO in 5 years?

GYPO is constantly evolving. I see my virtual styling programs getting bigger and better each time. In five years, I’d love to be the go-to source for everyday virtual styling.

What’s the best and toughest thing about being a blogger?

The best thing is the creativity, friendships and flexibility in my schedule. The toughest is having all of the responsibility on me to make everything happen!

ALISON’S LIFESTYLE

What makes you happy & what inspires you?

Spending time with my family makes me truly happy, as does dark chocolate, iced green tea and a glass of pinot grigio on the patio. I’m truly inspired by the women in my style challenge programs. They are amazingly supportive and encouraging and not afraid to step out of their comfort zones.

What are 3 things you do daily to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

– Drink water

– Pray/meditate

– Work out

As a wife, mother, and entrepreneur, how do you find balance in your everyday life?

I have to MAKE balance, it doesn’t happen. When work is over, it’s over. Some days that means forcing myself to close my laptop so I can be present for my family.

Any advice for someone who’s trying to find their passion and purpose in life?

If you’re working in a job that doesn’t excite you, you owe it to yourself to discover what does. A good way to do this is by doing what you love on the side for awhile. I blogged part-time until I was able to transition into it full time.

HOW CAN WE KEEP UP AND CONTACT WITH YOU?

Blog: getyourprettyon.com

Facebook: facebook.com/getyourprettyon

Twitter: @alisonlumbatis

Instagram: @alisonlumbatis

Pinterest: pinterest.com/alisonlumbatis

WNJ Inspires – What’s on My Bucket List, Part I

July 15, 2014 by Whitney 24 Comments

Every year around this time, I start thinking about my birthday. Born on August 11th, I’m said to be outgoing, self-assured and have a tremendous zest for life. All those are traits of a Leo and I suppose I agree with them. 😉 Well today I want to share 10 Bucket List Items with you – I guess that zest for life thing is kicking in, right?

My 28th year will be amazing. I’ve worked really hard this year and I’ve achieved many goals earlier than expected which is indeed a blessing. While I’m extremely grateful and thankful for everything I’ve accomplished, I’ve missed being spontaneous and trying new things. Sometimes we get so caught up in making a living that we forget to make a life. I read and posted that quote the other day on Instagram and realized that in my 28th year, my main goal is to enjoy life to the fullest. That’s why some of the things on my list are fun and silly, while others are more “serious” – it’s a good balance. 😉 OK, enough chit chat…let’s take a peek at some of these bucket list items, shall we….

1. Go to a concert (with one of my favorite artists) and sit front row.

2. Go zip lining. (this will help me overcome my slight fear of heights)

3. Train for (and run) a 5K.

4. Complete a few DIY projects.

5. Go to Essence Music Fest.

6. Go to a shooting range.

7. Get a bikini wax. (DONE)

8. Plan a spontaneous trip and just…GO!

9. Go on a tour of the White House. (SCHEDULED)

10. Complete the Daily Bread online bible course.

So tell me, what do you think of these bucket list items? Pretty reasonable, huh? What about you – what are some things on your birthday bucket list? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and I hope you’ve been inspired to think about more ways you can enjoy and live life to the fullest! Until tomorrow, be blessed and be safe…XO!

P.S. Don’t forget to link up your recent OOTD over on my Personal Style Linkup!

Style + Lifestyle Feature: Isaiah of A Collected Gentleman

July 9, 2014 by Whitney 5 Comments

Today’s featured blogger has been featured on WNJ before as part of my Thrifty Friend features. He’s actually the only male blogger I’ve the pleasure of working with so far. Isaiah, the style blogger behind A Collected Gentlemen, is not only an expert thrifter, but he’s also an inspiring young man who loves his family, photography and has a “thing” for timeless style. I admire his style, drive and passion and I think after reading his inspiring life + style interview, you’ll feel the same way. 😉 My favorite part of the interview is his words of wisdom to those wanting to start a style blog – his advice is dead on! But enough of what I think, lol. Scroll down and check out A Collected Gentleman for yourself…enjoy!

Where are you from and what’s your occupation?

I was born in New Jersey and raised in North Carolina. I’m a freelance photographer as well as a blogger.

How do you define your personal style?

My personal style is all over the place. I consider myself a melting pot. I like to take different styles and mix them into my own. I take elements of street-wear and prep.

What are your 5 must have wardrobe items for the summer?

– A white tee

-Denim jeans

-Grey Sweatshirt

-Oxfords

-A floral print shirt

Name 5 must have wardrobe staples every man should own?

-A grey suit

-Denim jeans

– Light blue oxford cotton button down

– Cologne

– Brown Wingtips

*A Navy Blue Knit Tie

ABOUT A COLLECTED GENTLEMAN (ACG)

How long have you been a blogger & what inspired you to start ACG?

I’ve been a blogger for 3 years now and my inspiration to start ACG came from wanting to change my image. I loved the timeless look of people wearing suits and oxfords.

What are are you feelings on male representation in the blogging community?

I think it’s great. One thing I will say about the blogging community – everyone looks out for each other and they’re always happy to support you. I’ve never felt negativity or hate form male bloggers. Since day one of certain ACG, I was embraced and given advice on becoming a better blogger.

I notice you have a passion for photography. What about photography do you like?

I love to capture the essence of beauty, weather it’s of a person, nature, or architecture.

What’s you vision for ACG?

My vision for ACG is for it to inspire pope the way I was inspired when I was first introduced to bloggers Street Etiquette and The Style Blogger. Those guys changed the way I looked at clothes, self-acceptance, and art.

ABOUT ISAIAH’S LIFESTYLE

What inspires & motivates you?

My family inspires and motivates me 100%. We’ve been through so much, and just to see my 3 little brothers graduate from high school and attend college is amazing. Also having my Mom see me graduate meant the world to me. They’re’ so proud of what my blog has become and that keeps me going. Every time my Mom calls me she reminds me to never loose my passion.

Who are some of your style-spirations? (family member, bloggers, celebrities, ect.)

I really don’t have any, but I really admire and draw a lot of my inspiration from women’s style – they make it look effortless.

Any advice for someone who wants to start a style blog?

Don’t do it for the fortune or fame. Just do it because it’s something you love to do. People always say that everything is so saturated. The people who are really passionate about it will stand out. Figure out what you want to do and work on it day and night – enjoy every minute of it, the good and the bad. You shouldn’t let negativity stop you. The worst thing you can do is let yourself get in your own way. Just keep pushing, work hard on your dreams and don’t give up. Enjoy your journey.

How can we keep up with and contact you?

Blog

Facebook

Twitter

Style + Lifestyle Feature: Karen of Your Stylist, Karen

July 2, 2014 by Whitney 23 Comments

Happy Wednesday! Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to the 1st blogger in my #summerwithnic featured bloggers series. 🙂 Karen of Your Stylist, Karen is a style blogger and stylist here in the DMV area. I’ve had the pleasure of working and hanging out with Karen on several occasions. She’s a wife, a stylish entrepreneur and above all she’s a woman of faith. I’ve been a fan of her blog and style for a while, so it’s my pleasure to introduce her to you all. Check out her full interview below…enjoy!

ABOUT KAREN + HER STYLE

Where are you from?

I am originally from North Carolina but currently live in my husband’s hometown of Washington, DC.

How do you define your personal style?

My personal style is feminine and bright. My style is an outward reflection of how I generally feel internally!

What are your 5 must have wardrobe items for the summer?

–A kimono for those breezy nights

-A maxi dress that can be dressed up or down

-A statement clutch that goes with everything

-A bathing suit that makes you feel amazing

– A pair of sunglasses that protects your peepers.

Name 5 must have wardrobe staples every woman should own?

– A skin tone camisole (can be worn on it’s own or under something else)

-The perfect pair of black pants

-A thin belt perfect to wear over or under many other staples

– A pair of jeans that makes you look good from all angles (dark denim is universally flattering)

– A plain white tee

About YSK

How long have you been a blogger?

I began blogging in 2012, one year after I got married. Blogging allowed me to express my creative side and also meet new friends, like Whitney! 😉

What inspired you to start YSK?

Your Stylist, Karen is not only a blog but it is also my business. I recently launched my new website that highlights YSK, the business. I am a personal stylist and personal development coach that serves professional women.

Where do you see YSK in 5 years?

In five years, YSK will have successfully helped hundreds of women, on an individual basis, as well as through YSK LifeStyle workshops. YSK will have created at least three more service areas to help women style themselves from the inside out.

What’s the best and toughest thing about being a blogger?

The best thing about being a blogger is having the ability to reach and connect with so many people from all different walks of life. I’ve had Skype conversations with my blogger pals in other countries and collaborated with like minded women after meeting at conference, like Lucky FABB. The toughest thing about being a blogger has to be the pressure to stay consistent. I have so much I want to share with my readers but do not always have the time to make things “perfect.” My need for perfection can get the best of me and it takes me longer to post than I would like. Stick with me and I always come back with something useful!

Karen’s Lifestyle

What makes you happy & what inspires you?

Serving God by using the talents he gave me to draw more people unto him. It’s not as complicated as it sounds, I promise! I just go about my day being open and honest with those that I come into contact with and HE does the rest.

What are 3 things you do daily to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

1. I am working on portion size because I have learned that

even when eating healthy, there CAN be too much of a good thing!

2. I experiment with new recipes from “Skinny Taste”

and you can find some of my favorites on my Skinny Pinterest boards.

3. I love going to a nearby park and walking the trails.

Enjoying nature and staying fit allows for the perfect weekend combo.

As a wife, professional, and entrepreneur, how do you find balance in your everyday life?

Trial and error taught me some pretty awesome life lessons. My priority is my role as a wife so I know that my actions have to reflect that declaration. I make sure to put the computer down and actively engage with my spouse at the end of the day.

Any advice for someone who’s trying to find their passion and purpose in life?

Pray and ask for guidance if you are seeking YOUR passion and purpose in life. I emphasize YOUR because it is so easy to try and follow the path of someone else that you deem successful. You have a unique life path and nobody can do it better!

How can we keep up and connect with you?

Website – www.yourstylistkaren.com
Facebook – facebook.com/yourstylistkaren
Twitter – twitter.com/yourstylistkar
Instagram – instagram.com/yourstylistkaren

#WNJInspired | What I Learned from Master Class on Own, ft. Lionel Richie

June 24, 2014 by Whitney 8 Comments

Most Sunday evenings you can catch me watching Master Class on Own. I’ve been a fan of autobiographical and biographical content, filmed on written, singe I was a kid. I remember being fascinated with the story of Princess Diana and reading and watching every little thing that had to do with her reign as Princess all the way until her untimely death. I believe that’s where my interest in “celebrity lifestyles” began.

This past Sunday, singer Lionel Richie on Master Class sharing bits and pieces of his life story. Certain pieces of his story struck a cord with me. As he recalled his highs and lows in the music business, and in life in general, these 3 things stayed with me:

1. When you feel like you’re loosing momentum keep going forward.

2. Accept who you are and be OK with knowing what you want – like yourself.

3. Success can be lethal, if you don’t know how to handle it.

We can learn life lessons from anyone. #wnjinspired

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I’m a firm believer that we can learn life lessons from anyone. Some may think celebrities can’t teach us anything or think they have it easy, therefore they can’t possibly know about “regular life”. Celebrity is just a title. At the end of the day, they put their pants on and go through life’s challenges just like we do. Which is why I’m such a fan of this show.

I’ve learned new lessons, been reminded of past life lessons and been intrigued by so many of the episodes. Aside from Lionel Richie, some of my favorite Master Class lessons have come from Whoopi, Robin Roberts, Cindy Crawford and Goldie Hawn.

So tell me, have you ever watched Master Class on Own? If so, who’s been your favorite? Also, what’s one life lessons you’ve learned along the way? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading, commenting and sending feedback. You all continue to keep me inspired. 🙂 I hope you all enjoy the day and I’ll be back tomorrow. Until then, be blessed and stay safe…xo!

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#WNJInspired | Being a Blogger, Feeling Burned Out and Saying No

June 17, 2014 by Whitney 13 Comments

Is it me or is there a “Feeling Burned Out” epidemic sweeping the nation? Every day I hear at least 3 people tell me that their exhausted, burned out or just plain tired of something. I know I’ve felt this way. There have been time when I literally felt like I was being pulled in a million different directions. I was constantly on edge, probably not a pleasure to be around, and extremely tired. I’ve even considered putting my blog on hold, more than once. Thankfully, I was able to get through these feelings and I was able to figure out what the root of the problem was. I was doing (way) too much.

Doing too much is the quickest way to feel burned out. #wnjinspired

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Doing too much is the quickest way to start feeling burned out. As a blogger there are so many amazing opportunities that come your way, but do you have to take advantage every opprotunity? You may feel that in order to “get ahead” as a blogger it’s neccessary to jump at every opportunity. Even if you’re not a blogger, you’ve probably felt this way at some point. Well, I’m here to tell you that there is power in saying no. Granted, I don’t have hundreds of brands clamoring to work with me (yet), but there are still opportunities that I’m presented with on a semi-regular basis.

Nothing can hold you back from what God already has planned for you. #wnjinspired

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I’ve learned that saying no doesn’t make me a bad person. Saying no (to an opportunity) isn’t going to hold me back from what God already has planned for me. I may reach my goal later than I expected, but what God has for me is going to be for me. Period. Same goes for you.

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As a blogger, I suggest saying yes to the opportunities that match your brand and vision. Eliminate the opportunities that don’t speak to you, even if you see that other bloggers are doing it. If it’s not your wheelhouse, keep it moving. And truth be told, if you say no to something that could have propelled you, (and your blogging career) it’s going to come back around. Maybe not the same way as it was presented before, but it will come back. Like I said earlier, what God has for you is for you.

So tell me, are you feeling burned out or have you felt this way before? Do you believe there is power in saying no? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting. Your feedback, emails and comments have really kept me going on days when I was feeling burned out. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…xo!

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