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
Marie Young says
She’s one of the most inspiring people I know. I’ve had the priviledge of knowing her for a few years now and from first meet she’s never ceases to amaze me. KNOW HER!
Marie Young recently posted…5 Statement Tee’s You’ll Need For Summer, Maybe Even Longer…
Karen says
Hee, hee! Thanks, Marie! I feel the same way about you. Hope to see you at some point this summer!
Karen recently posted…Style Update: Shimmer and Shine in Metallics
Whitney says
Ditto! Karen is gem!
Aracely says
Karen is such a beautiful person inside and out!! I need to frame that last quote. 🙂
Aracely recently posted…Closet/Home Office Progress
Karen says
You have me blushing, Aracely!
Karen recently posted…Style Update: Shimmer and Shine in Metallics
Whitney says
I agree, Aracely! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂
Charlotte says
What a great feature! I love Karen’s positivety! She’s so sweet!
Karen says
Thanks, Charlotte! I hope to see you again soon. Let us know if you will be in NYC or DC this summer.
Karen recently posted…Style Update: Shimmer and Shine in Metallics
Whitney says
Thanks, Charlotte! Glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
Karen says
Wow, Whitney! You made me look and sound good ,lol! Thanks for featuring me. I love what you are doing here on your blog. Keep up the great work!
Karen recently posted…Style Update: Shimmer and Shine in Metallics
Whitney says
😉 You are GREAT! Thanks again for agreeing to be featured. You’ve inspired so many people already. It was a pleasure having you…XO!
Kerissa says
Although we have never meet in person, I feel like I know Karen. When we connected in the BLMGirls movement. Karen was one of the few bloggers who drew me not only with her style but her faith. I inboxed her a few times on Facebook and even shared that I’m was trying to figure out my purpose (still working on it, lolol). Just like in her interview above she encouraged me from her heart and challenged me to seek God for the answer. it is my prayer that her business continues to flourish, her marriage is filled with love and laughter and style and God’s light continue to shine.
Whitney says
Her faith inspires me as well. I hope you get to meet her in person one day. 🙂 Thanks so much for stopping by, Kerissa!
Mimi says
From the wardrobe staples to how to keep everything balanced was on point. Great examples to follow! I love blogging as well for its ability to introduce to amazing individuals that you would never get to meet in real life. Great feature! You rock Karen!
Mimi recently posted…8 Things To Consider When Purchasing a New Home
Whitney says
I agree with you 100%, Mimi. Thanks for the comment…xo! 🙂
Kenya L Fashion Blog says
I love Karen!! Great feature! She has such amazing style! and an even more amazing personality! Such a sweetie!!
xo, Kenya
Kenya L Fashion Blog recently posted…Red, White and Blue
Whitney says
She the best, indeed! 😉 Thanks for stopping by, Kenya!
Antionette Blake says
You and Karen are such lovely ladies and this is a great feature.
Antionette Blake recently posted…Save Energy with Summer Sun Tea
Whitney says
AW, thanks so much sis! Love ya!
Kasi says
Awesome feature! Great style advice and I love all of the outfits in the pictures Kar! Keep up the great work! And hello Whitney! I’m Karen’s sister, maybe I’ll meet you one of these days!
Lisa a la mode (blog) says
Great Feature!!
I need to visit her site more!
Lisa a la mode (blog) recently posted…What to Wear with a Yellow Jacket: Summer Outfit of the Day & Link Up Party