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Chrisette Michele Interview: Rich Hipster, R&B Divas of LA & More

August 20, 2014 by Whitney 15 Comments

Yesterday morning, I had the pleasure of speaking to the lovely Grammy-award-winning singer-songwriter Chrisette Michele. A fan of her music and overall style for years, I was thrilled and humbled to be one of the bloggers to interview her. Chrisette has been diligently working on her upcoming music project, The Lyricist Opus, as well as her new blog/website Rich Hipster. She’s also been busy filming the latest season of R&B Divas LA. With so much going on, Chrisette still took the time to graciously share her thoughts on beauty, style, fashion, current events, and more. Following Chrisette’s style evolution from her first album, I Am, I can tell that she appreciates vintage and thrifted pieces. So, of course, I had to throw in a question about thrifting.

Who are your mentors and how did you find them?

I have so many right now. India Arie is one of them; we started off being signed to the same label. She came to see me perform at an open mic night one day without knowing I’d be performing and ended up taking me on tour with her. She’s been my mentor ever since. Iyanla Vanzant is another person I speak to often, just to talk and get advice from. Pattie Label, Lionel Richie – these are just people I’ve met, maybe backstage or on stage; they decided to give me their phone numbers and told me to keep in touch. They’ve been very helpful throughout my life.

What are 3 of your top vintage/thrifted pieces?

(1) Those long silk kimonos. You throw them on with a white tank top, a pair of ripped-up jeans, and stilettos, and suddenly, you’re fabulous! (2) Levi’s jeans – the cutoffs you get in the summertime. They last for a really long time, you can ruin them with bleach, and they cost like $7-$10! (3) This long rectangular patent leather French Connection clutch I got in San Francisco. It has gold and sequin stripes across it. It was $6, brand new with tags and everything! I carry it everywhere I go when I want to be fabulous!

How do you determine who you want to collaborate with?

It’s all about the vibe. We have to connect, and I have to understand why you’re making the music. Usually, I’m in the studio hanging out with the person I’m working with before we even make the song. In most of the hip-hop collaborations I’ve done, I met them outside of the studio and hung out. It took hanging out with Jay-Z 4 times before I could execute my part of the song correctly. It’s really about friendship and connection.

Chrisette also explained that as she grows as an artist, she has a “responsibility to let her fans know what she’s doing,” hence the launch of Rich Hipster and her decision to join the cast of R&B Divas of LA. From watching her on R&B Divas, you can see that she’s willing to open up and share (most of) her thoughts and feelings with the other ladies. And despite the tension between her and Chante Moore, Chrisette told me that “women can get along even if they don’t like each other – they can figure it out.”

Women can get along even if they don’t like each other – they can figure it out. – @ChrisetteM

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Chrisette’s excitement for her next musical project, The Lyrics Opus, was evident, and I, too, cannot wait for the musical masterpiece to drop! She explained that “this is what real music looks like” and said there would be no rap or hip-hop collaborations with this project. And as far as launching Rich Hipster, this is the 1st time she” has not been afraid.” When you visit the site, it’s clear that she’s inviting you into her world. She shares outfit posts, some behind-the-scenes footage of crafting The Lyricist Opus, and so much more. It’s quite an enjoyable experience! I applaud and commend her on being so fearless with her vision. I admire that.

So tell me, have you checked out Chrisette Michele’s new site? Are you excited about her upcoming project? Let me know!

Again, I was truly honored to have had an opportunity to chat with Chrisette yesterday. She has a sweet spirit and is not afraid to show the world who she is. For more on her upcoming projects, visit Rich Hipster, and be sure to catch her on Wednesday nights on R&B Divas of LA. I’m really looking forward to finding out the outcome of that “I Know Right” collaboration with her, Chantè Moore, Leela James, and Lil Mo. Mmmm…. 😉

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Style Feature: Rachelle of Pink Sole

August 13, 2014 by Whitney 10 Comments

Today on the blog, I’m excited to introduce you to my latest #summerwithnic style feature, Rachelle! Rachelle’s sweet and girly style caught my eye months ago and since then, I’ve been a die-hard Pink Sole fan. I adore her feminine and fashion forward posts, as well as her take on latest trends. Rachelle knows how to take the latest trends and make them fit her personal style effortlessly. This Florida blogger also has the prettiest collection of jewelry over at Rachelle’s Beauty Box. So after you finish reading her interview, be sure to stop by her blog and shop!

ABOUT YOU + YOUR STYLE

Where are you from and where do you currently reside?

I’m originally from Haiti, but resides in South Florida

How do you define your personal style?

I would say my style is moddy, mostly feminine with an edge.

Name 5 must have wardrobe staples every woman should own.

– A blazer

– A crisp white shirt

– A little black dress

– Classy black pumps

– A great pair of jeans

What are your top shopping destinations for…

CLOTHES…. J.Crew, Zara, ASOS, Off 5th, Nordstrom, Saks, Express and more

SHOES… Cole Haan, Nordstrom(they carry so many designers), Amazon (they have the best deals)

JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES… I’d rather not spend a lot of money in jewelry. But I love J.Crew and ChicCoutureOnline.com

ABOUT PINKSOLE

How long have you been blogging?

Consistently 2 years, but I started my blog 3 years ago.

What inspired you to start Pinksole + what’s the inspiration behind the name of your blog?

I would love the have a shoe line one day with pink bottoms, I even have the exact shade of pink I want. I mostly wanted to start a

blog to share my passion for fashion, but with a real life twist. I am not a fulltime blogger traveling all over the world, I’m a regular

girl with a 9-5 and a budget.

What’s your ultimate goal for Pinksole?

To be honest I’m not sure, I have changed and grown so much in the past few years I just want to see where it takes me.

Where do you see your blog in 5 years?

A lot more readers hopefully, and maybe branch out into new endeavors and hopefully still sharing my outfits with you. I’m sure

my style will change/improve.

A FEW EXTRAS

Who are some of your style inspirations? (bloggers, celebrities, family, etc.)?

To be is instinct mostly, I just wear what I love and feel comfortable in. But I do love all the FAB ladies in the blogging community

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

– Cook my own food

– Exercise

– Stay away from toxic relationships

What inspires you and keeps you motivated?

I just feel better and more confident when I work out.

Any advice for someone who’s trying to start a style/fashion blog?

Do you research before you start.

How can we keep up with you?

28 Life Lessons…

August 11, 2014 by Whitney 12 Comments

Happy Monday! As I celebrate my 28th birthday today, I want to share 28 life lessons I’m taking with me into my new year. 27 was a year of lessons, preparation and growth. It was one of my most challenging years for many reasons, but it was a great one nonetheless. This year I will have less stress, more peace, less worry and more faith. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

1. Gods love is real

2. Prayer works

3. Your word is your bond

4. Family is everything

5. Trust your intuition

6. There’s a season & a reason for everything

7. Life goes on

8. Be nice to yourself & others

9. Saying “no” is sometimes necessary

10. Smile

11. Do what makes you happy

12. Be yourself

13. Take chances

14. Make mistakes

15. Learn from your mistakes

16. Work hard, play hard

17. Be genuine

18. Treat yourself

19. Don’t be selfish with your gifts

20. When God says move, MOVE

21. Stay true to who you are

22. Stand up for what you believe in

23. You’re not designed for everyone to like you

24. Love your decisions

25. Surround yourself with those who make you better

26. Try new things

27. Enjoy the moments

28. Live the life you love {borrowing this from Mattie 😉 }

Thrifty Thursday: Thrift vs. Consignment

August 7, 2014 by Whitney 16 Comments

Hey there! Today I want to talk about thrift vs. consignment. While I’ve been more partial to thrifting, I must say that consignment shopping has been a fun adventure lately. As the Consignment Thread writer for DomiCile Magazine, I’ve been trekking across the DMV area looking for the best spots for consignment shopping. Some people have asked what’s the difference is between the two (thrifting & consignment shopping), so today I’m going to share my thoughts.

THRIFT VS. CONSIGNMENT – UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE

Consignment Shops/Boutiques

People bring their (gently) used items to consignment shops to sell. Once their item(s) is inspected/evaluated, it’s up to the store to determine if that item can be sold at their location. Once that is determined, the item is marked and placed on the sales floor to be sold on behalf of the consigner. Each consignment shop has their own system as to how they “watch” the consigners items. In the end, the consignment shop takes a percentage of the sale and then pays the consigner the remainder. If the item(s) doesn’t sell the consignment shop returns the item to the consigner.

Thrift vs. Consignment…what’s the difference?

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Thrift Stores

Thrift stores are filled with donated items like shoes, clothes, jewelry, dishes, furniture, etc. Most thrift stores are charity and non-profit based. (i.e. Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc.) Thrift store prices vary, but most times the prices are very affordable. Depending on the thrift store, the items will be sized and organized by section (i.e. pants, blouses, handbags, kitchenware, etc.). Some thrift stores are not as organized as others, so the finding what you’re looking for may require more time.

THRIFT VS. CONSIGNMENT – WHY I LIKE BOTH

Why do I like consignment shopping?

When consignment shopping, I know I’m going to find quality items that have little to no wear and tear. Am I going to pay for that? Yes. But certain thing like authentic handbags and shoes, exquisite and rare jewelry finds or authentic paintings from a certain time period I don’t mind shelling out more cash for. I also like the attention I receive when consignment shopping. Most consignment shops are small boutiques, especially those that carry higher end items. So you get that one on one shopping experience; the staff helps you find exactly what you’re looking for, or they point you in the right direction. The consignment shops I’ve visited like Rita G’s or Style Finds have staff members who know their inventory like it’s their own. In some cases, the owner is on the sales floor helping customers find the perfect item. I love that!

Earrings: Rita G’s Chapter Two Boutique

Why do I like thrift shopping?

Thrifting is all about the thrill of the hunt. To be quite honest, you may or may not find what you’re looking for the 1st time. But along the way, you find some pretty cool stuff! If you’re an avid thrifter then you know which stores to go to find what you need. Unlike consignment shops the prices are more affordable. However, the items may require a bit of TLC due to their less than perfect condition. Some of my favorite things to thrift are leather and winter jackets/wraps, handbags, and “on trend items” like kimonos. I’ve also found that the clothing sizes range wider while thrifting than I while shopping consignment stores. Something to consider. 😉

So tell me, what do you think about Thrift vs. Consignment? Which “method” of shopping do you prefer? Let me know!

Thanks for reading another one of my Thrifty Thursday posts and I hope you have a better understanding of the whole thrift vs. consignment thing. 😉 If you have more questions, feel free to contact me. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe….XO!

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Style + Lifestyle Feature: Molly of Still Being Molly

August 6, 2014 by Whitney 4 Comments

An infectious smile, a positive and upbeat attitude and an adorable baby girl. Those are just a few of my favorite things about visiting Molly’s blog, Still Being Molly! I’m a regular over at SBM and have been for quite sometime. This North Carolina blogger willingly shares posts about fashion, style, makeup, money, and more! Her blog is a true reflection of what a lifestyle blog should be. Read more about Molly below and be sure to stop by her blog to say hello! 🙂

ABOUT YOU & YOUR STYLE

Where are you from and what’s your occupation?

I am originally from Herndon, Virginia where I was born and raised but currently live in Durham, North Carolina. I am the Director of Marketing for a company called rAVe Publications – we are a media company that covers commercial audio / visual technology. I also am a mom! I call that a job in and of itself. 🙂

How do you define your personal style?

I’m a bit of a chameleon when it comes to my style. I like a little bit of everything… with exceptions, of course. But I’m always open to trying something new. However, my “go-to” style tends to be on the more classic and preppy side.

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

– A denim vest! I wear one ALL THE TIME! It’s the perfect layering piece.

– A fun pair of bright, printed shorts.

– A comfortable, but also fun maxi skirt.

– Flowy layering tanks – the kind that can be worn with shorts, jeans, skirts, and you can easily throw a cardigan over top.

– A lightweight tunic – that’s a super versatile summer piece that can be thrown over a swimsuit at the BEACH or it can be worn with jeans or shorts.

Check out @stillbeingmolly’s Lifestyle Feature. She talks about motherhood, blogging and more!

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Name 5 must have wardrobe staples every woman should own?

– A denim jacket

(A serious must-have; it goes with everything.)

-A good pair of neutral riding boots

(Boots can be worn in ALL seasons, I wear my riding / cowboy boots all the time.)

-Cardigans. No woman can have too many cardigans.

– A lace dress

(To me, the lace dress has replaced the LBD…)

– A neutral maxi skirt

(Perfect for any occasion)

ABOUT STILL BEING MOLLY (SBM):

How long have you been a blogger?

I had a Live Journal BACK IN THE DAY (but I don’t really count that… I just used to write random stuff on it). I moved over to WordPress.com from LiveJournal in 2007 right after I graduated college, and then moved to a self-hosted blog on WordPress.org in November or December of 2009 (I can’t remember exactly when). So, about 7+ years or so!

What inspired you to start SBM?

I have always loved to write. I was a creative writing major in college… so a blog was naturally a therapeutic way for me to just write. I have never been good at keeping a journal, so my blog has chronicled my life for the better part of a decade. Over the years it has evolved and changed as I have and has taken on MANY different forms. I really like where it is now.

Where do you see SBM in 5 years?

I think every blogger hopes and prays (at least in the back of their mind) that they would be able to do it full time. So, yeah, there’s a part of me that wonders if I’ll ever be able to take this thing full time. I love it and pour my heart and soul into it and work really hard on it… so I’d love to be able to say that one day it is my full-time job. For now, I just treat it like it is. 🙂

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

The best thing is the people that I have met through blogging. I realize that is extremely cliche to say, but it’s true. I’ve made some amazing friends through blogging and have connected with so many awesome people some of these people are now my best friends and I never would have met them if it weren’t for the blog. I love the opportunity to connect with people on such a deep level!

The toughest thing is just the natural “comparison” trap that all bloggers find themselves in eventually. It’s a constant struggle to not compare yourself to everyone else out there and get caught up in the “mess” of it all.

ABOUT YOUR LIFESTYLE

What makes you happy & what inspires you?

My family makes me happy. Simple things like playing with my baby girl and her giggling at me or nights on the back deck with my husband bring me so much joy. I am inspired by EVERYTHING around me. I’m always taking stuff in wherever I go. I used to be a comedian so, naturally, I’m a bit of a people watcher and I observe my surroundings constantly. I draw inspiration from the guy across the street to the way a display is set up in a store.

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

(1) Exercise. I try my best to do this regularly and it is a challenge, but I’m working at it!

(2) Sleep! Sleep is sooooo important, especially with a baby. So I sleep whenever I get the chance.

(3) I cut back on my Diet Coke intake. It’s no secret I’m obsessed with Diet Coke… so I stopped buying it to have in our home. I only have it as a treat when I’m out. That’s made a huge difference! I drink SO MUCH water now!

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

Balance is a thing I struggle to find every single day and I don’t have it all figured out, as much as I wish I could. It’s just a matter of prioritizing each thing as it comes and taking things one step at a time and one day at a time. It’s also REALLY important to realize that you don’t have to (and can’t) do it all.

Be honest with yourself, at all times. Don’t try to “fake it til you make it.” ~ @stillbeingmolly

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Any advice for someone trying to find their passion& purpose in life?

Be honest with yourself at ALL times. Don’t try to “fake it till you make it.” If your heart doesn’t feel right about something, listen to it. Trust your gut instinct. Seek counsel from your close friends and family members who will be honest with you. At the end of the day, do what you love. Who wants to waste their life doing something they hate?

WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU?

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