For most of us, the reason we are known online is for our blogging, Instagram or Facebook. When I started my very first website back in 2010 I didn’t have much of a clue what I was doing.
2014 was completely different. After I’ve followed some of my favorite bloggers I decided to get back into blogging myself (I stopped in 2011 after I took on a full-time corporate job) – this time I’ve learned a whole lot, though. I’ve learned how to get my own blog up and running by setting up a domain name and hosting account, and even learned much about designing my very own website via HTML coding.
But let me tell you: Blogging has changed since 2010…We are now constantly looking at picture perfect lives, and I must admit: I often wonder how I can actually compete with all of these beautiful people…And then there are days where I get caught up in this idea of worry. “What if I do not post? My traffic will go down for the day.” Or “My readers are expecting me to have a post ready for them. If I don’t post they will stop reading and never come back.” Do you ever feel this way? I certainly do, like 99% of the time + I’m a perfectionist who keeps editing and editing until I think my posts are “perfect” (is there actually such a thing as a perfect post?). Sometimes I drive myself crazy.
So, why did I decide to come back to blogging?! Did I dream about dream-worthy designer clothing? The answer is “No”. Did I dream about traveling the world? The answer is “No”. I came back because I wanted to be part of the fashion world again. And that’s it. I have a background in Fashion Design but ever since I took on a corporate job, became a mommy to a wonderful son, etc. – well.., fashion slowly disappeared from my life. Getting back into blogging helped me play with fashion again – something I’m very passionate about.
Blogging has also opened the world to me. I’ve been blessed to connect with some of the most amazing people (that’s you!) via blogging and social media from all around the world which I’m really grateful for. I’ve recently given an interview to Nermisa at LettersToLaLaLand, and I thought I’d share some of her questions/answers with you here as well since I’ve talked a whole lot about blogging and my experiences + I’ll answer a few questions I’ve received from you via emails and/or social media.
Thank you for reading, and most importantly for your support! I love you all.
How would best describe your style?
I try to focus on conveying my personality where the truth is elusive, just in the manner of Coco Chanel. My style is feminine, sophisticated and sometimes a bit edgy! I like to experiment with fashion.
Do you stick to conventional fashion or like to try and be original?
I don’t like to stick to conventional fashion at all. I think it’s important, especially as a style blogger, to be original. Don’t just copy looks but create your own.
What advice could you give to someone aspiring to get into blogging and world of fashion?
Be authentic and be patient. Success doesn’t happen overnight. Be dedicated and work hard. Also, don’t compare yourself to other bloggers – it will only discourage you. Always focus on yourself and find ways to stand out!
What advice could you give to someone who wants to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin?
It all starts with thinking positively. If you want to feel comfortable in your own skin, then you have to start thinking about the best thing that can happen to you instead of always expecting the worst. Any time you catch yourself thinking negatively, fight your negative thoughts with at least two or three positive ones. Make an effort to rationalize your negative thoughts away, and expect good things to happen to you; the more you expect good things to happen, the more they will. Also, make it an effort to develop confidence. Confidence comes from within, and developing your confidence means feeling good about who you are, where you are, and what you have to bring to the table. Developing confidence may take a lifetime but you can start NOW to make a commitment to start changing the way you feel about yourself.
You have a beautiful son, how do you manage blogging, working and motherhood?
Thank you. My son just turned 3 and he’s a lot of fun! My son, Kingston, is usually with me when I have my photo shoots. He always makes me laugh which is why you see me laughing/smiling so much! To manage it all I think it truly depends on a great support system which would be my husband in my case. He’s my biggest help and supporter and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for him. Also, time management is super important. My days are literally structured to every single minute of the day – which helps me and my family tremendously.
How do you relax?
I relax by just being at home (in fact, I’m quite the home buddy). Also, I enjoy drinking tea’s which always helps me to calm down. I’ve recently started drinking Flat Tummy Tea which I really like a lot. It consists of 12 natural ingredients that helps reduce bloating + it speeds up your metabolism at the same time. Sort of genius. It strengthens your immune system (full of antioxidants) and increases your energy levels which I totally need after chasing after a 3 year old all day.
What do you wear at home?
I can usually be found in a t-shirt and some comfortable jeans + on the weekends I wear my glasses instead of my contact lenses. I’ve just gotten a new pair from Firmoo, and I’m very happy with them (check them out here). Firmoo.com offers a variety of prescription eyewear in high quality yet at extremely affordable prices. If you’re wearing glasses like me then you must check them out and get your FREE pair of glasses HERE (coupon code is provided)!
Thanks again for reading & have a wonderful weekend!
SHIRT: T&J Designs c/o | JEANS: Shopbop | MUG: Anthropologie Monogram Mug | EARRINGS: Kate Spade c/o | TEA: Flat Tummy Tea c/o | GLASSES: Firmoo c/o
Thank you for your honesty, V! I feel like that 99% of the time and I always feel like quitting but I keep plugging along. I think it is important to remember that your doing this for yourself and nobody else! I can only work on the blog when Joey is napping and sometimes I have a 100 other things to do during that time so I get overwhelmed. I really wish I had more time to market it and make it better. I love your blog and so do so many others so keep it up! You’re amazing! xx
Author
Amy, thank you for reading! Please, never stop blogging because I LOVE reading your stories! Your content is always well written and so beautiful! Hope all is well! And thanks again for the love! Sending you much love! xx
What an amazing post! I feel the same way about being a perfectionist with my blog. Thanks for making it real. Since I have two boys, it’s almost impossible to be on top of it all the time. Thanks so much for being a positive inspiration and I need to try that Flat Tummy Tea! XO
http://www.kathrineeldridge1.wordpress.com
Author
Katherine, thank you for reading! I adore you, and I’m so glad we found each other! Keep up the good work! xx
Nice post!
Kisses.
Lidia
http://www.lidiasbag.blogspot.it
Author
Thanks, love!!
Vanessa, you are SO inspiring! This post is so beautiful..and so true! I can absolutely relate with you! I love following your blog, I really do! Not only are you inspiring but you also have a beautiful soul! A TRUE ROLE MODEL! Keep up the good work! xx
Author
Jess, you are making me cry! Thank! You made my day! xx
I love your honesty I used to feel that way too sometimes there is too much comparison or getting caught up in the business of blogging for me its a fun outlet not a job but a fun way to connect with others who love fashion
Author
Same here, Mel! Thanks for reading! It means so much to me and I’m happy to have found you here! xx
Such a great post! I really like how you’re honest about blogging. It’s so true though! I think about it all the time about pageviews, writing the next posts, etc. It can be stressful at times which is funny because I started blogging to relieve from stress. I also enjoyed your questionnaire! Thanks for sharing!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Author
Thanks for reading, Rachel! I know – it’s funny how it can become something stressful! But like you said: It should relieve stress since we’re passionate about it! Love your blog! Keep up the good work! xx
You’re speaking from my heart! Thanks for sharing such honesty…love your blog!
Author
Thanks, Megan! xoxo
That’s empowering to hear – more power & good luck! Would love to see great things from you & the blog!
Best!
Rebecca
http://www.redtagchiclosangeles.com
Author
Thanks, love! Glad to hear that you find it empowering! xx
very interesting! your blog inspired me 🙂
http://fashiontipp.com
Author
Thanks, love!!
Love post and love the pictures <3
xo
valentina
http://fashionneed09.blogspot.it/2015/02/fur-coat-by-elite-fashion.html
Author
Thanks, love!!
Lovely Firmoo Glasses!
Alessia
New post
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Kiss
Author
Thanks, love!!
Me encanta! !!. Un magnífico post, gracias por compartir. Un besazo y mil gracias. Feliz fin de semana.
http://almamodaaldia.com/
Author
Gracias! Besos!
I love you! Thank you for always being so positive and inspiring! xoxo
Author
Thank you, love! xoxo
This is a great post…thanks so much for the answers and advice + I’m going to try out the tea it sounds wonderful. Enjoy your day/night 🙂
Author
Thank you, love! xoxo
I think you’re right. we blogger want to be part of the fashion world. And that’s why I blog, cause fashion is an important part of my life. I love to write and love to be fashionable. I love your blog and it is an inspiration to me. Keep up the great work 🙂
Love. Tine
http://fairytaleoflife.wordpress.com/
Author
Vielen Dank, Tine! Du bist wirklich lieb! Find deinen blog ganz toll! xo
I totally understand how you feel about not posting one day! My viewship will take a big hit if I miss a day, so I agree completely!
x. Sabrina // Simply Sabrina
Author
Thank you, love! xoxo
I am so happy when I read this kind of post, because that means I am not alone. I have the same fears. Even when I don’t feel good, I am trying to post, beacause I am thinking that someone depends on me. I know it is crazy. Love your blog and I am so happy you returned, because I would never found you. Have a awesome weekend. Love, Mel
http://www.livingoncloude9.com
Author
Melisa, thank you for taking the time to read my post! I love connecting with all of you! It truly means a lot! Sending you much love! xoxo
It’s a pleasure to know a little more about you!
XOXO
Author
Thank you, love! xoxo
Love your honesty!! I can say I feel this way sometimes.
http://www.mylifeaskaty.com
Author
Thank you, Katy!! xo
I had a blog in 2011 too that I stopped posting in. I started my current site in 2013 and boy, blogging really has changed! It’s been such a rewarding experience for me, and I loved reading your story!
lovejoanna.com
Author
Aww, thanks, for commenting Joanna! I do love your blog! xo
Vanessa – this post is wonderful, from the beautiful black and white photographs to hearing about your blogging journey. It’s very inspiring and I appreciate getting to know you on a more personal level.
Don’t ever worry about your readers, they will continue to read your blog regardless if you miss a post or change your schedule.
Your blog is so polished I admire the fact that you are so hands on and have learned HTML etc. I also love how interactive you are with your readers. I couldn’t believe when you befriended me. I am still so honored.
Like you, I started blogging because I love fashion. I worked in a buying office for 5 years and switched industries. I missed being immersed in the culture so I started a blog.
I would love to know more about your day to day. How you juggle work, blog, being a mommy and wife. I can barely keep up and I just started blogging in October. I would really like to see a day in the life piece. You could break it up into three post: work, home, and weekend.
I am a tea fanatic and will be trying the one you recommended. I also need a new pair of frames. Thanks for the tips.
Excuse the extremely long comment, but I just wanted to let you know that you’re appreciated and beautiful inside and out.
Happy weekend!
http://laceandpearlsblog.com
Author
Asa –
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! It really made me happy, and please don’t apologize for leaving a long comment! It was genuine and very sweet! It definitely made my day! You had some great post ideas and I will make sure to incorporate them somehow! I’m blessed to have found such an amazing support system! You are the sweetest, and thanks again for reading! Sending you much love!! xoxo
very well said!!! blogging has totally changed since 2010, that’s when i started!! 🙂
xo,
Sandy
Sandy a la Mode
Author
Thanks Sandy! xoxo
Great post!! I do have some of the same concerns, but I also think skipping a day here and there just gets readers more excited about that next post. Have a great weekend!
xo Jaime
http://www.therealfashionista.com
Aww this post was so touching. Thanks so much for sharing – I think all bloggers can relate to your internal struggles I love your blog and I’m glad that you continue to do what you love 🙂 Keep it up beautiful!
Lots of love,
Amy
http://www.curatedbyamy.com
Nice post and love the shots girl! <3
x
A lot of stuff mention here I can totally relate to, and I have mention from time to time on my blog. Sometime I too want to give up on blogging, but at the same time, I look at myself, and see how much blogging has change me, and I decide to keep going. I have meet some wonderful bloggers, and that alone has made me not able to stop. This was truly a refreshing post and I truly did enjoy reading it…Xoxo Kreyola.
Kreyola Jounerys | Instagram
This is such an honest post – thanks for sharing! I think what matters the most is whether you enjoy what you do – so long as you enjoy blogging you should definitely continue (:
– Deniz
http://www.dressedupdeniz.com
Love, LOVE this post! So great to learn more about you and great answers! Hope you have a wonderful weekend
http://www.girlandthepolkadot.com/
Cute sunnies girl!
Loved reading this about you! I feel the same way sometimes, the pressure of being “perfect” is overwhelming at times, and like you I am a perfectionist. I have a full time job, volunteer, blog, and try to have a social life (when I can haha) – I have to structure my days as well, otherwise I don’t know what I would do! You’re such a beautiful person, and you’re amazing for being able to do everything you do!!
Brittany
accordingtobrittanyblake.blogspot.com
Great interview! I didn’t know all of those things about you but now I do! Your style is always on point and so perfect! Also, I need that flat tummy tea omg!
~~Megan~~
http://www.poshprime.com
Loving your honesty, it’s so true. Blogging can become a lot, but nothing I would ever wanna give up! Thanks for giving us a peek into who you are. I really enjoyed reading this Vanessa! Xo
Evolution of Glam
Super inspiring! I’ve totally been there (stopped blogging) and it is amazing what a difference it makes in your life to have a creative outlet. Something rewarding you did all your self, something to call your own. Glad you came back to the blogging community.
XO JNESS
Happy Friday Vanessa!! Thanks for sharing your story. I’ve my moments where I sometimes wonder if blogging is taking up too much of my time. And I get frustrated that it has to fall to the bottom of my priorities list because my life can be quite hectic sometimes. But then I remind myself of all the benefits of having my own creative outlet… I’ve made so many wonderful friends and blogging has made me come out of my shell too.
I’m so glad I found your blog, you’ve got a great sense of style. And you always look so happy all the time, love that about you. Beautiful soul!
xo, jackie
http://www.stylemydreams.wordpress.com
I absolutely love this post and how honest and encouraging it is! I started my blog close to a year ago and I definitely feel discouraged sometimes when I see how amazing other people’s blogs are, but then I meet wonderful people (like you) that make me realize we are all unique and can all bring something to the ‘blogging universe’. Thank you for sharing this post with the rest of us! Also, the picture with your dog is just the cutest ever!!
xxx
Camilla
http://avenuecamilla.com
Love reading such an honest and beautiful sharing of thoughts! I do feel in the same boat at times especially when tight on time while working full time! It is tough but fun 🙂 Have a wonderful weekend!
http://tickleyourvanity.com
It’s amazing that you juggle motherhood with blogging and love how your son contributes to your shoots 😉
Helen xx
http://CH1K.com
PS. Thanks for stopping by and I totally love your style!
http://ch1k.com/giveaway/daniel-wellington-giveaway/
I feel ya girl! Blogging can be so competitive at times! It is hard not to compare yourself to others!!!
Melanie @ meandmr.com
It’s great to know you better. I don’t feel that way cos we’e not posting everyday anyway. Have a happy Saturday!
xx
Great post! I agree that it’s really hard to keep up with the ‘picture perfect’ blogger life, especially as Instagram is probably the most important marketing tool today. Thanks for sharing your honesty and it’s great you came back to blogging 🙂
Rachel xx
http://www.thedailyluxe.net
Beautiful post, lovely to read you are doing it because you love it =)
http://mypetitecorner.blogspot.com
I really enjoyed reading this post! I love getting to know the bloggers I follow a bit more!
xx mindy
Love your ripped jeans and the mug….the dog does look lovely but am not a pet person.
I can really relate to this…half the time I wonder if I’ll ever get to where I want to be, but I push myself. But most of all its posts like these that keep me going, when I read other blogger stories, and realize that nothing comes easy, we all have to start somewhere and nurture our dreams to reality. At the end of the day it’s about expressing ourselves.
Thanks for the inspiration love.
http://pearlsprettyskin.blogspot.com/
Just from reading your interview at LA…didn’t know you are a mother, no wonder you always so happy. I can’t remember a time I visited your blog and didn’t leave with a smile. Can’t wait to see your designs.
So much insight on your personality. Keep up the good work.
http://pearlsprettyskin.blogspot.com/
Love this post, and I think many people, including myself, feel this way sometimes.
Shae at
http://www.currenthabits.com
What you said wa so true! Sometimes it does gets stressful but also at the same time writing about something you love is also a wonderful thing! Keep up the good work girl!
http://www.glamourbyzee.com
Oh I can really relate to what you’re saying.. All those perfect people with their perfect lives are so lovely to look at but they make me wonder if I can ever reach that level of perfection :))
Blog template and installation GIVEAWAY on my blog:
Bella Pummarola
Hi V, thank you so much for sharing your story with us! I love your honesty and I have to say I had the same thoughts about blogging too. I used to compare my blog with others and I always felt so sad afterwards. It made me feel quite insecure as my content wasn’t that attractive + I was also afraid that my blog traffic would decrease..I was too focused on these that I neglected the main point of blogging. Blogging is not about getting more followers, the likes or whatsoever, it’s about doing the things you love! So I completely agree with you, stop comparing yourself to others and try to focus on yourself;) Oh and I’m also a tea lover! That flat tummy tea sounds good! Happy Sunday V! Love ya, xo Vivian
http://twoward.com
Wow this is a great post. I don’t know what I was actually thinking when I started blogging. I mean, I don’t have connections and don’t know how it’ll grow into a bigger one. I started blogging because I love fashion. That’s all. I didn’t know that my blog would take me to places and give me countless opportunities. I can feel you about not being able to blog for consecutive days and not being able to have a picture perfect pictures but I always think that I know still, my readers will appreciate it. 🙂 Congrats and cheers to more years in blogging! 🙂 Good Luck, Vanessa!
Have a nice day! 🙂
xoxo,
SHAIRA
http://www.missdream-girl.blogspot.com
I love the glasses. Good Sunday.
Valentina.
http://WWW.ZAGUFASHION.COM
ZAGU FACEBOOK PAGE
bloglovin follower
You are definitely beautiful enough for blogging <3 Even more beautiful!
xx from Germany/Bavaria, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
This gives such encouraging advice to all bloggers out there. As a blogger there will be ups and downs. Never lose faith. Be yourself & stay true to who you are. This is your blog…your story. Have a nice day! <3
http://www.barbirellafashionrunway.blogspot.com
This is such a great post Vanessa and is reflective, I think, of how a lot of us feel. Blogging makes me feel connected to others who share my passions. I love reading and following What V Wears:)
Heidi D.
http://www.wishesandreality.com
Hi Vanessa,
I’m pretty new to your blog and I hope to get to know you better. You mentioned that you’ve followed me. On which platform did you follow me as I did not receive any notification. I would love to keep connected with you so do let me know!
As for this post, I think there isn’t such a thing as a perfect post as there are just too many people out there and there wouldn’t be a one size fit all kind of post. I guess perfection is one’s own perception. So write happily and do what you like. There are simply too many blogs out there and I can say that many of us blog authors love real, honest and sincere 2-way communication and engagement. Those are the bloggers who really stand out coz it shows in their heart that they take the time and effort to connect with people. I don’t write frequently too and I do see a drastic drop of traffic and readership over the years. It used to be twice a week, then once and now I would just post as and when my contents are available. I do return blog visits to people who comment and have since built up a great network of blog friends. In my opinion, these are what makes my heart stir all warm and fuzzy.
Looking forward to knowing you more! =)
Jo
Jo’s Jumbled Jardinière
I really enjoyed getting to know you better in this post! You look amazing in your glasses!
xo Brighton
LittleSurprise.Naughty&Nice
I really enjoy of reading this post as I think many people recognize themselves by your eyes. Thank you for sharing this thought! xx
Margo Raffaelli
An awesome and super encouraging post! I love it <3
https://coralbuttons.wordpress.com/
Cada día me gusta más tu blog…. Adoro tu naturalidad, Vanessa!!!
Un beso
http://cocoolook.blogspot.com.es/
I love this post! You are so cute!
Melanie @ meandmr.com
Girl, I could not agree more! It is so difficult to find the balance between appearing professional and posting good quality pictures and the reality of what’s really going on behind those Instagram pics! Thanks for sharing:)
xo
http://www.charltonlee.com
Thanks for sharing this interview! The black & white pics are super cool!
http://fashion-soup.com/
I’ve got the same feelings as you dear!! 🙂
Nice interview!
Kisses
Martina
http://www.pinkbubbles.it
NEW POST
That last shot is just beyond adorable!
K.xo
http://www.rarelytakenseriously.com
Very inspiring post, you touched on so many things! Confidence is so important
Leftbankgirl.blogspot.com
I think exactly the same!!!! I am still astonished that you’re doing this full time, like I said, I LOVE typing, but I think, what if I run out of words? What will people think? Will they stop reading? I just hope I carry on with what I am doing, and focus on what I want my blog to be about!!! 🙂 I loved reading this post, I felt very connected to what you were saying…. Keep it up!!!! Look forward to reading more and MORE!!!!