October Q&A
Q. "#1 Fave diaper bag? I remember you posting a while ago but cant find! Thank you!"
A. I've been using my Twelve Little tote since Banks was born, and I've really enjoyed it. It's nice and lightweight, lots of useful storage, hidden zip bottom for diapers when you're out, waterproof, and has ability to carry with shoulder straps or longer detachable strap. My husband carries it a lot when we are out and finds it to be really comfortable on. (he wears the shoulder strap over one shoulder as a cross carry!) I also love the large side and front pockets! - Bag linked here!
Q. "How do you deal with mom shaming?"
A. This is something I've had to work on. With my first two, it was really hard to not take what people say personally. After all, we're human and it can be difficult to not have your feelings hurt. I've learned to separate what people say from the truth. I know the truth, and what really goes on in my life. Other people can have a skewed perception of reality if they aren't witnessing your every move to know exactly what you go through as a person, and as a family. Try and keep that in mind, and remember at the end of the day you're doing your best for your children. Their YOUR children, not anyone else's.
Q. "What are things that help you stay encouraged while working at home with the littles?"
A. This is a great question! I've found that focusing on myself even for just a few minutes a day, as self care is extremely beneficial. If I feel my best, then I know I'll do my best. I can stay more motivated when I feel good about myself, and take care of myself! Some days that looks like starting my day with coffee, and immediately getting out of my PJ's, and doing my hair and makeup. That always makes me more productive and encouraged. Some days that doesn't get done, and I try to breathe and remember these days will be missed. The kids will be in high school in the blink of an eye. The days are long and hard, but I try my very best to soak in the chaos and everything. It goes by SO fast.
Q. "Maternity basics/Must haves? I don't want to spend a fortune on clothes"
A. I feel you! I didn't want to spend a ton of money on clothing I'll use for only a certain number of months. I think it can depend a lot on the season you're pregnant, If its cool/cold months, then definitely a good pair of leggings and a pair of denim. I've heard great things about both the Zella maternity leggings, this target pair, and my personal favorite from Blanqi linked here. Then, grab either a few maternity tanks (I lived in these from Target) or a longer sleeve basic like this one from H&M. I also lived in that one when I was pregnant with Kai! These pieces will start your "base", then you can add clothing you already have like an unbuttoned blouse on top to layer, jacket, vest, sweater, or dress on top. I didn't buy many "Maternity" styles, and instead bought pieces I could always wear like loose dresses, or skirts with stretch waistbands. I know I didn't post a ton of maternity outfits, but I did share some good ones on my Instagram! You can look back on those looks and shop everything in one place here. Congratulations!!
Q. "Can you help with what to wear to black tie fall wedding?! I love your style and I'm clueless"
A. First of all, you're so sweet!! Thank you! A jewel tone formal gown would be festive and stunning! I personally would go with something floor length if it's a black tie. However, if it's daytime you can get away with a party length dress. Try this chiffon gown, I personally own it and it's beautiful in many color options, plus only $89. You can get away with wearing it to other events, so it won't be a one time thing. I'm obsessed with this high-low gown, too! I found this wedding guest outfit idea page to be helpful. Have fun!!
Q. "Do you use a purple shampoo? What shampoo/hair products do you use?"
"How do you keep your blonde hair so bright and shiny and gorgeous?"
A. I'll link my blog post I wrote all about that here for you.
Q. "How did you learn how to become an influencer"
A. I'm still learning! The internet is always changing and things are always progressing, so you'll never stop learning. When I started blogging in 2013, I would spend hours upon hours on the internet researching how to start a blog. I never started to become an "influencer".. I know this is quite a new term for us (lol!) so it was kind of a different thing back then, and even now. I researched how to create a website, emailing brands, contacting other bloggers to team up for a giveaway, sharing posts on social media, creating a community. It takes time, honestly if you ask any blogger when they get "off" work, they'll laugh. It doesn't really stop, and you're always kind of "on".. if that makes sense?! In the beginning, and even now, it takes a lot of dedication to stay consistent. I think in order to truly influence, you have to be 100% yourself, honest, kind, consistent, and show up for your people. Create a sense of community, and believe in it. Only represent what you can honestly talk about, and make sure you're connecting with who you are influencing.
Q. "What was the baby leap app that you use again?"
A. The Wonder Weeks!
Q. "Can you link the piece that helps with layered necklaces?"
A. Yes! It's by Necklet, linked here.
Q. "Skincare routine? What are you currently using?"
A. Currently, I'm working on hydrating. My skin has been all sorts of crazy postpartum, and what I noticed helped the most was doing less while my hormones are trying to regulate. I'm nearing my 8 week mark now, and everything is starting to calm down and back to normal. Anyways, I've loved my Farmacy Honey Grail oil both during pregnancy, and now. I use it every single day. Love that it adds hydration, but sinks right in and doesn't make me look or feel greasy. I'm actually really boring right now with skincare. Just keeping with the same classics I've used for months and months. Dermalogica Intensive Moisture cleanser, and multi-active toner is still the same. Other than that, I started to add in Tula day and night cream a few days a week to see how my skin reacts.
