The future of blogging, like the future of anything else in the world, is unknown.

But if we can take a guess, it’s going to look drastically different, maybe sooner than we think. We’re already starting to see major changes take place in the digital world, like Pokemon Go, which can lead us to believe blogging isn’t far behind. Let’s take a deeper look at where the future of blogging may be headed.

Mobile

Who uses a laptop or desktop anymore? I mean, I do, but I feel I’m the only one (tell me if I’m wrong)! People want access to information (aka value) 24/7 and the easiest way to do that is through the phones – it’s the one thing we’re forbidden to leave the house without.

So this means that it’s time to get mobile with your blog. But how?

Start by making sure your blog’s website is mobile-friendly. If you use WordPress, most blog layouts are “responsive”, which means they adapt to any digital device they’re presented on. You can even take it a step further and turn your blog into an app – something a few bigger blogs have done.

You can also go mobile by investing more time in apps and establishing a social media presence since that’s where people are. Start creating YouTube videos because those are easily accessible on smart phones or maybe a podcast in iTunes? The options are limitless.

Product lines

Now that bloggers are realizing blogging is a growing business, they’re starting to create product lines. It’s not as complicated as you think. A product line doesn’t have to be an extensive shoe collection sold at Nordstrom.

In fact, you can sell digital downloads, books, pictures, graphic design services, etc. all from your blog. Don’t let your imagination get the best of you and get overwhelmed. If you have a lot of ideas, that’s great but start with one. I always refer back to this quote when I get sidetracked by everything I want to accomplish:

Starbucks started with one cup of coffee.

Sometimes your product lines will come indirectly. Instead of creating a clothing line like everyone else, maybe you could sell a guide on how to create a clothing line? A successful product line is one where you think outside the box.

VR

VR is short for Virtual Reality aka Pokemon Go. Total VR domination is far ahead in the future, but it wouldn’t hurt if you started to think about how you can incorporate it into your blog.

Perhaps you could make your product line VR friendly or maybe you could set up a Pokemon Go “lure” on your website, at your office, or shop.

I’m not a scientist, but I don’t need to be one to see VR is going to be huge. VR is the next wave of marketing and advertising and yes, blogging entails both of those things; if you want to stay afloat in the future, look into VR for blogging!

Diversification

Brands are already starting to look at the whole package of a blogger instead of just one part like traffic. Your blog traffic used to be the only indicator for success, but that has quickly changed to brands looking at your Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube, etc. I would extend yourself even further to any new apps that emerge and take advantage of any updates or new features in addition to the already existing platforms.

When you diversify yourself across multiple social media platforms, it gives you a wider reach and makes you more marketable. What if a brand is looking for someone who is familiar with YouTube but you’ve never made a video? Well, they’re going to find another blogger who has. And the only way to prevent this is to diversify, diversify, diversify!

Where do you see the future of blogging headed? Tell us in the comments!

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Periscope Snapchat @notanothrblonde

Image Source Credits – Traveling Mama

You Should Also Read:

Why You Should Stop Calling Yourself a Blogger 
4 Under the Radar Apps That Will Get Your Blog Noticed
The Influencer Economy Isn’t Collapsing – It’s Just Getting Better

The post The Future of Blogging appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Drugstore makeup brands have made disruptive strides over the last several years…

It seems illusory to think that 10 years ago, you couldn’t even walk into a drugstore and expect much from an eyeshadow palette or snag a foundation that suited your complexion. That’s not to say everything you find in that part of Walgreens or CVS is going to be a hit, but if you get your hands on the right stuff, you might just beguile yourself.

I often ramble much about Hourglass, Nars, and other prestigious brands, but I’m no label whore. I love my drugstore makeup just as much – and there’s a few things I wouldn’t even trade for something Dior or Chanel.

I’m committed to stuff that works, so today, I’m highlighting everything you need within arms reach of your local drugstore…

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circle Treatment Concealer

I use this product in the shade Brighten and it makes a close dupe for Dior SkinFlash Radiance Booster Pen – Rose Glow. Since the Dior one can get a little expensive, Maybelline’s concealer has become my default for every day wear. It’s got excellent coverage and really brightens up the eye area. My only complaint is that I wish it was  a smidge more moisturizing – that won’t deter me from buying more in the future though.

L’Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt Mascara

I don’t toy with mascaras because it’s hard for me to find a good one. Once I find the one, I stick to it like white on rice, unless it gets disco’d. In the drugstore though, L’Oreal is a usually a safe bet for A+ mascaras so I picked this one up after the downfall of my Revlon. It’s got a unique brush that’s not encased in bristles, which made me precarious, but I’m totally sold on it now. It fills in all the little gaps between your lashes and combs right through them, building up exceptional volume. I must say I like this one more than my Revlon ex.

Flower Glisten Up! Highlighter Chubby

Everything’s better in stick form – you’ve heard me applaud this highlighter before, and I’m doing it again. When I think Beauty Icons, Drew Barrymore doesn’t typically come to mind, but man, her line disproved me in every way. First, the shade Gold Coaster is drop dead gorgeous – it’s subtle and glides on like a dream. I’ve been using this every day for the daytime, and it’s so ever faint while gleaming just enough.

Maybelline Define-A-Brow Eyebrow Pencil

If you’re looking for an alternative to Anastasia’s Brow Wiz, this is it, except your colors options are far more limited. I can get away with the shade Medium Brown. It’s got a great applicator that allows you to create faux brow hair and it’s also super forgiving if you’ve made an error – just smudge it out with your fingers. Don’t expect much out of the comb side.

Milani The Multitasker Face Powder Face Powder

This is the only drugstore powder I’ve ever bought and probably the only one I’ll continue to buy… It’s finely milled, goes on lightly, and never looks cakey. The only detractor is the smell, other than that, it’s perfecto. I’m surprised it’s not talked about more often.

Wet n Wild Color Icon Liner Lip Pencil – Chestnut

Dirt cheap, but sooo good and lasts forever! I first saw this on Zanita and she was sooo gorg with it, I just knew it was a necessity. It’s a red-tone chocolatey color that goes on wicked smooth and gives the richest color ever. I’d deem it almost equivalent to Mac Lip Pencils, except WnW’s is absurdly long (in a good way obv), plus some very minor nuances. It’s perfect for all skintones, and at $1, you’re totally missing out!

Maybelline Eyestudio Master Graphic

When I’m in a rush, this liquid eyeliner by Maybelline is my safe haven. It’s pitch black and goes on bold as heck – one swipe is all you need. The fat marker-like tip creates the perfect winged liner every single time.

I’m always on the hunt for great products at great prices, so don’t forget to share your favorite drugstore makeup products below!

Shop My Favorite Drugstore Makeup

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest Bloglovin

You Should Also Read:

No Makeup Makeup For the Beach
Wedding-Proof Makeup Tips to Beat the Summer Heat
The BEST Summer Bronzers to Sustain Your Glow

The post Drugstore Makeup Hall of Fame appeared first on Zanita Studio.

We’re broaching back to school season and that means time to sharpen up! Party’s over!

Whether you’re 16, 22, or 30 (and even if you’re not going back to school), these movies will remind of you the joy and anticipation of the school year. You won’t have the leisure to sit back and watch your days away once it starts so take advantage of what’s left of summer now and binge. In no particular order, here are our back to school favorites:

#1 10 Things I Hate About You

Young love, here’s how to get someone to quit being pissed at you.

#2 Mean Girls

Because we seriously need to stop girl-on-girl crime! #feminist

#3 Bring it On

Two things: 1. Stand your ground when you have any sense of who you are and 2. Be kind when it’s in your power.

#4 Clueless

The epitome of 90s fashion since it’s entirely relevant again, so take notes for your BTS uniform. Cami layered over tees and farmer clothes.

#5 The Breakfast Club

Demented and sad, but social – was that a foreshadowing of our current social generation?

#6 Napoleon Dynamite

Don’t forget to discipline your image.

#7 Freedom Writers

You are not confined by your circumstances. Change is always possible.

#8 She’s All That

Another great 90s fashion motion picture – bomber jackets and slip dresses, yes please! Plus, a little nostalgia of how bittersweet high school love was (or can be)..

#9 Grease

Let’s not be fake…

#10 Kindergarten Cop

Can we be this innocent again?

Now good luck & “don’t have sex, because you will get pregnant and die”!

You Should Also Read:

What Would Our First Female Bond Wear?
I AIN’T AFRAID OF NO Subconscious Gender Bias
The 5 Best Autobiographies to Read if You Want to Work in Fashion

The post 10 Movies That Will Get You in Back to School Mode appeared first on Zanita Studio.

For several of you out there, the next 2-3 weeks spell a brand new school year. And the rest of us, well…don’t let the lack of a formal schedule avert you from learning…

As a matter of fact, we believe knowledge is a life-long sojourn and a fundamental human need. The majority of us are brought up in a structured classroom environment where a teacher gives lectures, and we’re given homework and exams to measure gauge our understanding. Once we surpass those years, we tend to forget how to learn – and that we actually even need to learn. If a new school year impacts you in no way, let it be a memo that you need to keep learning something new every year.

We’re sharing 4 of our favorite places to learn outside of school to get you started.

Books & Journal

You don’t need a teacher to learn; all you need is yourself and a book – a dictionary counts! Books offer a wealth of knowledge and can take you in so many directions no matter which way you choose to go. It’s an underrated stimulating activity that keeps you young at heart and in mind. Journaling goes right in hand with reading – it’s an effective way to construe your feelings, monitor your learnings, and understand yourself. So, read and write more!

YouTube

The guys who invented YouTube pretty much gave us the world. Wanna learn how to cook? ✔ Apply makeup like a pro? ✔ Dissect a calculus problem like mathematician? ✔ Take photos and edit them beautifully in Photoshop? ✔ Everything is on YouTube, just search it!

Online Resources

Online learning is nothing revolutionary, but the fact that there are so many options out there now gives you ZERO excuses to not try out a free course. If you don’t know where to start, here are a few of our favorite resources:

• Azalle (more bad assery to come)
• Lynda
• Skillshare
• General Assemby

Sometimes, being self-taught is better than formal education because you can actually learn what you want to learn and filter through the bullshit. Besides, the latter can get ridiculously expensive.

Workshops

If you don’t like the whole online learning environment, take a workshop! Boutique bakeries offer specialty lessons and your local community colleges provide a plethora of continuing ed courses to pick from. You just have to do the leg work in finding what interests you.

Anyone who keeps learning stays young.

– Henry Ford

Image Source Credits – Not Your Standard

You Should Also Read:

5 Things To Keep In Mind As You Jumpstart Your Career
10 Movies That Will Get You in Back to School Mode
5 Things To Do When You Start A New Job

The post The Best Places to Learn Outside of School & Beyond appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Well, Instagram sure threw us a curveball, didn’t they?

I did NOT see that coming. I would have thought Snapchat would have patented so hard that it would have become a monopoly in video chat, but apparently not! Again, it just goes to show you need to diversify your social media strategy like you would your financial investments, (which I preach all the time on… Snapchat!).

Anyway, every single blogger on the planet is now debating using Snapchat or Instagram stories.

Snapchat stories are better for…

filters, fun, people with an already engaged audience, and gaining new audiences. Because Snapchat is the OG of “stories”, I don’t see bloggers abandoning it completely because it has built such a solid and loyal user base.

Because of Snapchat’s new sharing feature, your ability to reach and be recommended by friends is unlimited. With the click of a button, someone’s profile can be “recommended” to people they follow and, unlike Instagram where you get a taste of what’s expected, the person who gets the suggestion has to add you to see what you’re all about. You have the advantage to win them over with your personality whereas on Instagram, it’s like judging a book by its cover.

Snapchat is such a unique way to express yourself if you’re an aspiring actor or comedian by taking on different personas according to the filters. It’s also great for mini beauty tutorials whereas Instagram can get confusing. There’s an occasional lag or glitch, which can get cumbersome. I also don’t like that I have to play the whole stream before I can replay it again (all of my gripes I’m sure Insta will work out at some point). I’ve also noticed the calibration is off for Instagram stories so when you write a caption on the edge of your picture, it gets cut off.

Snapchat is more user-friendly in that sense, but they’ve also been doing this longer. So for functionality and fun, Snapchat stories are better… for now.

Instagram stories are better for…

people on Instagram who a. don’t follow you on Snapchat and b. don’t have Snapchat. Instagram stories have the potential to lure in new followers by getting a glimpse of your personality.

Nowadays, facts tell, stories sell, and clearly Snapchat and Instagram feel the same way because their “stories” are making a killing! You want to sell yourself via Instagram story by providing as much value as possible to your audience.

If you’re someone who wasn’t convinced of Snapchat’s secret branding powers, then don’t bother getting an account now since you can essentially do the same thing on Instagram. It’s one less app to worry about.

Plus, you’ll most likely reach more people with your Instagram story than you would with Snapchat. Gaining followers on Snapchat is more challenging because there is no strategy other than sending your current followers on a wild goose chase to find you.

There are also plenty of other people on Instagram who don’t have Snapchat but have Instagram, making Insta stories a great way to connect on a personal level.

Conclusion

For us bloggers who are still baffled by the whole thing and not sure where to go or what to do, relax.

You’re in a digital world and digital businesses are the most susceptible to change, so you just have to adapt if you want to survive.

Unfortunately, instead of this change making things easier for bloggers, Instagram actually made it harder for those of us who already have Snapchat because now, we’re doing twice the work by updating on both platforms. That also means we’re creating even more content which might be overwhelming for us and our followers!

The best advice I can offer is: keep your options open and test both stories to see which works better for you. The goal is to get your content in front of the eyes of as many people as possible, so go where the people are going!

This technique should be applied to every aspect of your blog/business. You want to build brand awareness and the best way to do that is by following the consumer/customer/follower.

One thing I will say is that Snapchat will need to come back hard after Instagram’s new knockout story feature.

Do you prefer Snapchat stories or Instagram stories? Tell us in the comments below!

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Periscope Snapchat @notanothrblonde

Image Source Credits – Playbuzz, Asos, Vanessa Jackman

You Should Also Read:

Snapchat – a Blogger’s Secret Money Maker
How to Get More Snapchat Followers
How to Use Snapchat to Build a Brand

The post Snapchat or Instagram Stories? The Best One for Your Blog appeared first on Zanita Studio.

We just love how versatile fashion and accessories can be. Remember when talked about turning your weekend outfit into work appropriate attire? That’s one example, and today, we’re talking about all the ways you can wear slides!

Slippers are the new way to transition lounge wear into our daily lives.

A few days ago, I was going for a stroll downtown with my mother. She was wearing the cutest jumpsuit and pondering which pair of shoes to wear. I told her to wear a pair of my slippers, and she thought it was too pajama-like. I began lecturing her about how it was the shizz and she ended up taking both. Hence, the reason for this post… We decided to help you pair these amazing ones in three different ways; there’s a way for every occasion, so you maximize the shit out of your CPW (Cost Per Wear) and everything else!
 

2016 is definitely the year of loungewear so get started.

X Eduarda

Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest

You Should Also Read:

5 Kinds of Bomber Jackets to Wear This Summer
Trend We’re LOVING Right Now: Pom-poms
Summer Travel Essentials Every Girl Needs

The post The Right Way to Wear Slides in 2016 appeared first on Zanita Studio.

As I look back at my college years, the one thing that sticks out pervasively is that I didn’t enjoy it enough.

I believe now that those years are overrated, tantamount to the little piece of paper you acquire at graduation, but I also know now that those years, so ever transient, are some of the best ones you’ll ever get (and never get back). So, take it all in slowly while you’re there – although life afterwards isn’t too bad either, especially if you lived up those years.

I, unfortunately, wasn’t as imprudent I should have been; so in honor of back to school, and to help you refrain from the same scrupulous mistakes, I’m sharing all the little things I wish I knew prior to attending college.

– You won’t have it figured out as a freshman and probably still won’t by the time you’re done.

Hell, it’s very likely you still won’t know 5-10 years after graduating. College isn’t a place you go to discover yourself or dig up your life-long passion – that’s an expensive place to do it – so it’s senseless to waste those years stressing out about it. I was always the contender for success – “this is my major, I’m doing X internships, working X hours a week, maintaining X GPA, and graduating early” – a go go go mentality that was extremely encumbering and unrealistic and unhealthy for my age because I had no clue what I wanted to do at 20 (only to have that epiphany hit after those years were over). Now if you’re lucky enough to figure that piece of your life out while blooming, that’s wonderful, but I still stand by the fact that the heavy stress as a youngin’ probably isn’t worth the headache.

– Life is easier sans the all-nighters.

A master cunctator (complete oxymoron to what I just said above), I was also the student who’d read 8 chapters from my textbooks in one night every single semester, never go to class, or if I did, I’d fall asleep (in Row 1). It makes no sense…how could I be so driven and lazy at the same time? IDK, but the pile of Red Bulls wasn’t worth it… Those years will be much easier and less stressful if you take the road less traveled: read day by day and not all at once.

– Splurging on “it” items and brands are useless; take that money and travel instead.

I’m not exactly sure what college students these days are splurging on – maybe the Louis Vuitton Speedies – but in my days, it was Coach and shit… Okay, at that age, especially if you’re already lacking heaps of green, you most likely don’t have a strong understanding of what timeless is; therefore, it’s useless splurging on timeless things (or lack thereof) like trendy designer handbags. I did a major clean out over the weekend and everything I ever splurged on in college went out the window. I wish I had taken those funds and crossed the border with it.

(Note: This also applies to the brainless shopping sprees on cheap clothes.)

– Cherish those “all the time in the world” moments.

Life after college isn’t entirely bad, but you can pretty much forget about the gym at 1 am… Waffles at 2 am… Hangovers into the following evening… And endless hours in a beauty massacre with major gossip in between. Guys and gals, enjoy them while you can!

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest Bloglovin

Image Source Credits – Regina Dubin, Traveling Mama

You Should Also Read:

5 Reasons Why Your College Degree Doesn’t Matter
The 5 Things I Regret Most
How to Cope with A Miserable Job After College

The post Everything I Wish I Knew Prior to Attending College appeared first on Zanita Studio.

We can all strive to build better habits (and break the bad ones too)…

We’re sure you’ve heard the hackneyed phrase “it takes 21 days to build a new habit”, but the funny thing about that is, it takes an even shorter amount of time to break it… So if you’re goaling for long-lasting results, those 21 days won’t help you much.

Scrap that…

If you really want to improve your lifestyle through building better habits, we’re showing you the easy two-step process to get there…

Step 1: Schedule the habit

What do you do when you have a to-do list – you plan your day accordingly, right?

…Well, you might not know the exact hour, but you have an idea around the time of day it’ll happen, and the more you “schedule” something, the more likely you are to do it.

This is exactly what you need to do when pursuing new habits – set a specific time and day for the activity to occur. For instance, if you want to become more active, schedule a time to work out every week and incorporate it into your daily routine (in the same way waking up at 7 am and getting ready for work is routine).

But don’t attempt too many new habits at once… We recommend starting with two max.

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail!

Step 2: Baby steps

After you’ve instated that schedule, be realistic and start small. You can’t expect to lash out all your energy on the one thing you just started; that’s only going to cause burn out and result in quitting.

Say a new habit you want to take on is to read more… Start by reading just 1-2 pages a day and increase that threshold once you get the hang of it. Running is another great example… If the last time you ran was in high school, you can’t expect to get out there and wing a 5k… You need to build up the endurance for it.

Lastly, one final thing to shift is your mindset – stop any negative pep talk, which just becomes an excuse to give up.

Image Source Credits – Charlize Watches

You Should Also Read:

The Best Places to Learn Outside of School
10 Great Habits to Stick to
Remember When You Want to Quit

The post The Easy Two-Step Process to Building Better Habits appeared first on Zanita Studio.

September is the mother of all months.

There’s the colossal September Issue from every major magazine, Labor Day fun, the U.S. Open, end of summer, Fashion Week, and of course, the start of the academic season. While kids everywhere are excited for the new school year, we’re overly excited about fall collections. Yeaaa! Brands always come back with a fresh response to the changing seasons, so browsing through the infinite novel collections never get mundane. Besides, it’s therapeutic, ok?

Given that we’re not in school anymore (and you might not be either), there’s no harm in impersonating the grown up student. Think plaid, unconventional socks, pussy bow blouses, bomber jackets, and backpacks – everything that epitomizes the typical school girl look.

We’ve intermixed all the stylish pieces you can wear for back to school, even if you’re not in school.

It’s always great to have the coolest wave of t-shirts on hand, and we’re currently obsessing over Sara’s #bossbabe tees. How in the world are they are so minimal, yet so hard to get enough of???

What’s your back to school style?

Shop more options below and let us know your favorites in the comments!

X Eduarda

Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest

You Should Also Read:

10 Movies That Will Get You in Back to School Mode
The Right Way to Wear Slides in 2016
What Everyone is Going to be Wearing This Fall

The post The Stylish Pieces to Wear for Back to School appeared first on Zanita Studio.

If you’ve been watchful, you’d already notice that the days have become a smidge shorter as the sun sets earlier…

With less than 6 weeks of enduring daylight (although it’s pretty much ended for anyone with an academic calendar ahead of them), you want to make sure you’re taking on the best mindful activities to make the most of summer. We’re not talking about being a tourist in your city or relaxing more, but instead, taking meditative steps to become the best version of yourself come fall…

Start with these simple activities:

– Keep a journal

The first step in evolving into a person you’re happy with is self-awareness. A journal helps you discharge a haunting past and an anxious future; it puts you in the present – in full existence with your feelings. As you journal, you’re also making mindful memories and mapping out a blueprint for your dreams and ambitions. Turn this into a habit.

– Handwrite letters

We love an old-fashion handwritten note especially in an era where technology overpowers every element of our lives. Also, it’s quite remedial. If you didn’t know, your handwriting tells you much about your personality and the kind of person you are (graphology). We highly recommend reading this book for more insight into those around you.

– Take one (or a few) artsy sessions

An artsy session could be something as simple as wine & paint night, a dance or cooking class. Art-making functions strengthen your ability to focus and forces you to strategize (and re-strategize) to perfect whatever it is you’re making or doing. They’re also super affordable and a wonderful way to relieve stress.

– Record a personal documentary

With your phone at your fingertips all the time, making little videos is beyond basic. Record several clips throughout your day, and then put them together in iMovie (or some other video-making app). It’s hard to see your own life when you’re the one living it and looking outwards, but a small documentary lets you see it from an outside perspective. You’ll be surprised at how wonderful your life really is.

– Declutter your space

The worst thing you can do is transition into a new season cluttered with dust from the previous. Set half a day aside to ransack your wardrobe, vanity, and life for things you haven’t touched in years. Your mind will feel so much fresher and your life cleaner afterwards.

Shop the Story

Image Source Credits – Gold Coast

You Should Also Read:

The Best Places to Learn Outside of School
10 Great Habits to Stick to
Remember When You Want to Quit

The post Make the Most of Summer With these Mindful Activities appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Change is inevitable. Sometimes it’s fun and exciting…

But when it’s unexpected and throws us off course, it just plain sucks. Humans are creatures of habit so when our routine is disrupted it feels like our world is spinning out of control. Even as an entrepreneur, traveler, or stay at home mom, we all create some sort of daily routine.

And anyone who says they like change hasn’t experienced a change they didn’t like, but they will, and when they, do they’ll change their opinion… see what I did there?

Clearly, this is a very different blog post because yes, I’ve experienced huge changes in my life and it’s thrown me for a loop. In less than a week, my counterpart on the West Coast quit, our company was bought out, and my boss is leaving for greener pastures (he literally is going to live in the countryside). I’m sorry, what?

The biggest hit was my boss leaving. I have been fortunate enough to have only worked in places where I consider my coworkers family. After all, in most cases you spend more time with them than you do your actual family so needless to say, I’ve been crying all day.

Oh yeah, and it’s “that time of the month”. So all of that is one lethal combination for an emotional blog post. But don’t worry – I add lots of value even to my emotional blog posts, so here we go…

If you don’t expect it, accept it

Unless we’re choosing to make the changes, change is usually unexpected. And when it’s unexpected it’s out of our control, and the only thing you can do when something is out of your control is to accept it.

I say this often on Snapchat, that if you don’t like the cards you’re being dealt, change what you can that’s in your control. You can only change how you react to situations and the best way to do that is through taking an action that is going to bring you the results you want.

So in my case, I’m upset that my boss is leaving but thrilled he’s able to live out his own dream now, and it would be selfish of me to feel otherwise. I can either sulk about it or accept it – I choose the latter.

Is there a hidden opportunity?

This was my first job in the city of my dreams with a team that actually made me pass up an opportunity for another job with more money because the people were so great. I’ve only been here for 6 months, but my boss and I just clicked. Him leaving was really hard for me to see any sort of opportunity because saying goodbye is never easy.

However, my boss brought to my attention that this could mean opportunity for growth since the team will be taking on more responsibility. Not to mention one of my other teammates, whom I also love dearly, will be assuming my current boss’s role, so the transition should be seamless.

Never rule out the possibility of an opportunity even if your current situation is less than desirable.

Time heals all

It’s so cliche and I hate when people tell me this, but time really does heal. It’s an out of sight, out of mind kind of thing. When someone exits your life for whatever reason, the longer you’re away from that person the easier it will be to embrace the change.

This too shall pass.

Every situation, good and bad, is temporary and the longer we go without things being the way they were, the more we can adapt. Think about a time you left a job, went through a breakup, or lost a pet… The sting is still there when you think about it, but odds are you’re at a much better place now than before because of time.

What is a recent change in your life and how have you been handling it? Tell us below!

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Periscope Snapchat @notanothrblonde

Image Source Credits – Vogue

You Should Also Read:

The Easy Two-Step Process to Building Better Habits
The Smaller Things in Life You Should Be Paying Attention To
Make the Most of Summer With these Mindful Activities

The post How to Handle Change That’s Out of Your Control appeared first on Zanita Studio.

I’ve had the pleasure of testing out so many new products these last 2-3 hot months, so it finally feels appropriate to round up my best bases for summer!

When it comes to makeup, there’s nothing worse than slapping on what seems to be a blob of dewy gorgeousness only to look like a grease ball or have it slip right off in a matter of minutes. The problem is, with so many great innovations out there today, it can feel paralyzing to get one right… However, I’m sure one of these will be the one for you…

Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer

With plenty of SPF, this tinted moisturizer easily tops the bases list with its luminous, lightweight finish. There’s also good reason why it’s talked about countless times in the beauty world. You get that “real skin, but better” effect without foundation and it looks super natural. It’s also surprisingly hydrating so it’s a definite winner for anyone with dry/dehydrated skin.

Tarte Hybrid Gel Foundation

This is a long-wearing gel foundation with no SPF (for anyone who needs a good special occasion base). It’s cooling, plumping, soothing, and just makes you look flawless. The texture itself feels smooth and creamy – you’d almost think it was heavy, but it’s not heavy nor greasy at all! It goes on so easily and lasts all day. You won’t need a whole lot of product, but you will want to set it with a little bit of powder.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Foundation

Anyone with combo-oily skin will love this product for its consistency… It’s unique in that it feels thicker and drier than your typical foundation, but with a whipped-like texture. That also means it’s a little trickier to apply – I didn’t find a BeautyBlender or a stippling/flat foundation brush to be very effective. You’ll need something dense. If you can get the application right, you’ll have perfect looking skin that lasts all day without creasing or melting in no time.

Bobbi Brown Nude Finish Tinted Moisturizer

For anyone who doesn’t like makeup, you’re guaranteed to love this one. It enhances the skin so ever slightly and just makes you look lit. It’s really creamy and blendable – everything so far just works with it. I wish the SPF was a little bit higher, but applying extra SPF underneath doesn’t hurt. The coverage is very sheer yet it still has the ability to blur out redness – just don’t expect it to hide your blemishes.

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick

I’ve spoken about wedding makeup previously, and this one is perfect for those special occasions. It’s a true full-coverage foundation that lasts all night. It sits on the drier side, but is still pretty emollient and works really nicely into the skin if you do it right. You also have to be careful with how much you apply because it can start to look cakey if you start too heavily. Once you get over that learning curve, you’ll love it because it sits through any kind of weather and situation.

Shop My Favorite Bases

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest Bloglovin

You Should Also Read:

The BEST Summer Bronzers to Sustain Your Glow
Beauty Must Haves For Dry Skin This Season
Drugstore Makeup Hall of Fame

The post The Verdict – Best Bases for Summer appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Anxiety is one of those things you can’t quite put your finger on until you feel the physical affects of it…

If you’ve ever found yourself restless, going through episodes of having an accelerated heart rate, sweating, or shortness of breath where no physical activity has been present, chances are, you’re experiencing anxiety. There are a breadth of reasons one might feel anxious or constantly stressed out, and those reasons could be different for everyone. The severity of those underlying reasons will also impact how quickly you can rebound from it and whether or not intervention is needed, but no matter what, it’s important to start with natural measures that can help you cope.

Here are a few tips to get the ball rolling…

Self-reflection

Genuine acknowledgement can help you get through anything successfully. You’ll need to backtrack a little, but determine whether or not there has been a pattern in your way of thinking and how long it’s been going on. Is it the pressures of having to attain a certain lifestyle by a certain age…maybe you’re not at a point you expected to be at this time? Are you financially troubled? Going through a major lifestyle change (e.g. a divorce)? The point is, if you can figure this part out, finding solutions will be a downhill process.

Keep a journal

Some of us aren’t amazing at being in touch with our feelings and we might be horrible at communicating them. It can also be hard to express yourself when you feel like you’re constantly being judged. That’s exactly why journaling is highly suggested even if you’re not experiencing anxiety. Write out your feelings without any kind of formality (no one is going to read it) and with any diction you wish, and then go back and analyze it. You might notice triggers as you go back through your reflection, which will help you the next time around.

Talk about it

A strong support network is a basic need in life… Find someone you trust and talk to them about it – and it doesn’t have to be a friend; it could be a therapist or a mentor. They could be experiencing the same exact thing you are and can give you suggestions for coping. This could also be helpful if you can’t pinpoint exactly what the root cause is…someone can guide you in the right direction.

Take on calming activities (like yoga, meditating, or getting out)

Anything that’s calming, requires controlled breathing, and takes your mind off the current situation makes a huge difference. As silly as it sounds, these activities help you find a sense of peace and focus on the present. Anything holistic is worth a shot even if you’re apprehensive.

Image Source Credits – Honestly WTF

You Should Also Read:

How You Can Rebound From Anything Like a Champ
Why Self-Love is The Most Important Life Lesson You Will Ever Learn
How to Claim Back Independence When You’ve Forgotten Who You Are

The post Take Back Control & Kick Anxiety to the Curb appeared first on Zanita Studio.

True, you can never guess exactly what you’ll be asked at an interview…

but there’s no such thing as being extra prepared. And if you ask us, we’ll tell you to go armed with a wealth of experience and considered responses in your back pocket. In addition to the questions we’ve talked about here in the past, being able to give thoughtful answers to the 8 questions below is sure to get you in slaying mode… Because no matter what you’re asked, you’ll always be able to fall back into your experiences if you can answer these questions at your next job interview. Get ready.

1. Why should we hire you? (Or what can you bring to the organization? Or what sets you apart from other candidates? Or what are your top strengths?)

This questions plays on your typical “Tell me about yourself”. Pick 2-3 hard examples, focusing on one important theme and hand it over to your interviewer. Your theme can focus on your ability to save the company money, generate higher sales, communication skills (bringing people together to drive results), or your ability to learn quickly. Whatever quality you think is essential to the job, talk about that.

2. Tell me about a time you failed.

Every employer knows that no one is perfect. Be ready to discuss 2-3 situations that did not have a pleasant outcome… The important thing is, they want to see that you learned from it.

3. Tell me about a time you disagreed with your boss. (Or tell me a time you handled a difficult situation.)

The thought process here is what the employer wants to see, and it shows that you’re a team player. Are you easily flustered in disagreements or do you handle confrontation well? Make sure to have solid examples and be able to give details of the outcome.

4. What motivates you? 

You want to answer with what it is that motivates you, follow up with why it motivates you, and give an example. You can say something like you’re motivated by results because it’s hard proof of your abilities; your example could be “like the time I grew my company’s Facebook following by X” or “I wrote a blog post that had over 5000 clicks”.

5. What are your goals in the next few years?

Unless specifically asked, refrain from 10 year goals and instead emphasize 1-2 year plans or what you hope to achieve in the job (assuming you get it)… Longevity is key.

6. How do you cope with stress? (How do you handle pressure?)

If you’re in a high stress, high pressure environment (like fashion), decompressing is going to be a big deal. Make sure you have effective, but immediate ways that work and be able to back it up.

7. What would your old boss say about you?

Be honest…reflect on the things old leaders have said about you either directly or indirectly and bring that to the table. Although we don’t always agree that past performance is an indication of future results, employers still strongly stand by it.

8. Do you have any questions for me?

Your answer should always be yes and then you can nail them with these.

Image Source Credits – Karen Rosalie

You Should Also Read:

The Best Way To Prepare For an Interview
How to Kill It In an Interview
Best Questions to Ask in An Interview

The post Questions You Should Be Prepared to Slay at Any Job Interview appeared first on Zanita Studio.

When you get to a certain level in your blogging career, things may become so hectic that you’ll actually have to hire someone (like a project manager) to handle all your collaboration inquiries. This person will be able to cut the fluff and get down to partnerships that are “on brand”, but you won’t be eliminated from the equation completely, and why would you want to be?

You’ll still be forced to make hard decisions about what is best for you and your blog, which usually includes saying no more than yes. What you’re about to read are 3 questions every successful blogger asks before a collaboration that helps make the decision-making process much easier.

Does it make me happy?

First and foremost, you only want to agree to do things that make you happy. Once you stop having fun and being happy, that’s when you realize your work is no longer serving you and it’s time to move on. Plus if you’re not happy the quality of your work will suffer. As the old saying goes…

“Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.”

Think back to the days of high school – how many projects did you get that actually made you happy? Probably not too many. Now think about the school projects that did make you happy… Didn’t you put in more time, effort, and get a good grade?

Happiness is what drives us to do our best. So before the brand, the pay, and the criteria, comes a blogger’s happiness.

Does it challenge me?

When you stop being challenged, you stop learning and when you stop learning, you stop growing. And we all know that when you stop growing, you pretty much fade out of the blogging business. In my opinion, the best part about blogging is challenging yourself and being able to explore new strategies, trends, etc. Half, if not all, the fun is the climb to the top.

Imagine if blogging was easy and followers just flocked to you and brands approached you constantly. You’d get bored and people would get bored of you. If there’s one family this is the case for, it’s the Kardashians, and even they challenge themselves constantly.

Because blogging is challenging, you appreciate the features, the gifts, the collaborations, and the followers that much more than if they were just handed to you. If you’re lucky enough where gaining followers and brand collaborations is easy, you may want to up your game.

I love bloggers that shake things up by coming out with a new approach or business model completely. There are only so many outfit pics we can look at before we start to yawn, which is why many debut clothing lines, shoe lines, jewelry lines, etc.

A blogger’s work is never done; there is always room for growth.

Does it meet my financial needs?

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…bloggers have needs, financial needs that need to be met if they want to make blogging their full-time career. The tricky part is finding that sweet spot between brands wanting to save money and you wanting to make money.

You may have a luxury brand approach you about a collaboration for 50% less than your rate. Ughhhh…

You have a few choices in this case: 1. you say no outright and hope they send a counter offer, 2. you try and negotiate, 3. you say yes because it makes you happy and challenges you, and you think it’s a great opportunity. The last thing you want to happen is be left high and dry after an attempted collaboration.

When all is said and done money is one of the last questions every successful blogger asks before a collaboration, but it is still asked! Because without money coming in, you won’t have money going out to invest in your blogging business.

Key takeaways: happiness first, growth second, money third.

What questions do you ask yourself before a collaboration? Tell us in the comments!

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Periscope Snapchat @notanothrblonde

Image Source Credits – Z Hours

You Should Also Read:

The Right Way to Contact Brands for Collaborations
The 3 Most Important Lessons for Women in Business
What to Charge for Collaborations as a Blogger

The post 3 Questions Every Successful Blogger Asks Before a Collaboration appeared first on Zanita Studio.

I hope I didn’t keep you all waiting too long!

I initially wanted to create an in-depth post with lots of photos and step-by-step visuals, but it was so time consuming and explaining everything in words became quite difficult. So then I forced myself in front of the camera and talked through several of my favorite products only to do it 3-4 times! Man, YouTube is a hard as F***! But I persevered because I knew a demonstration would be much better than an explanation.

Anyway, as promised, here’s a DIY classic bridal look for you all…

And even if you’re not a bride, but you’re attending a wedding as a bridesmaid or guest, or have any kind of special occasion to look forward to, this look would be perfectly suitable.

I find that most brides can’t pinpoint exactly what they want. They’ll show you a range of images, which all share one common theme…neutral-toned eyes that are a little smokey, yet not too smokey… Eyes must also be glowing bright. Natural luminous skin with softly flushed cheeks and rose bud lips are highly requested as well (and they’re timeless). I took all of this into consideration below so watch on to learn!

Shop My Favorites

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest Bloglovin

You Should Also Read:

The Makeup Brushes Shaking Up My Beauty Routine
All Your Friends Are Getting Engaged!? Here’s How to Stay Cool
Wedding Season is Here and You Can Look Amazing Without Upstaging the Bride

The post A DIY Classic Bridal Look For Every Kind of Wedding appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Too many people are afraid of self-promotion or just being recognized in a big way… Are you afraid of putting yourself out there???

Do you have a blog you almost never speak of? An Instagram you never intend to show off? Or a YouTube channel you pray someone you know won’t discover?

We’re here to tell you that all the self-shaming needs to stop for several reasons because there’s absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about. Everyone starts somewhere, so if it’s that resting b*tch face you need to loosen up, poorly filtered images, low-grade self-shot outfit pics, don’t sweat it… You’ll improve with time.

And definitely don’t sweat that one person who’s teasing you on the other side of the screen.

The next time you’re concerned about self-promotion or criticism from the public, here’s what you need to remember:

No one absolutely cares about YOU, what YOU’RE doing, or what YOU have to say (even if they know you). They only notice when you’ve made it. It’s human nature – people are designed to be more concerned about themselves and what’s going on in their own lives versus the next person… Also, no one comes to your Instagram, YouTube, or blog to seek out someone who’s insecure…they come curious. That’s how they found you in the first place.

You very well may not be pretty enough, skinny enough, or smart enough, but there’s more to a soul than what’s on the outside. Everyone knows that. Those quirks that are unique to you are exactly what makes you unique, so own it. The minute you start to let someone’s opinion change the way you’re doing things or prevent you from doing something you truly want to do, you’ve given them power over you, and you’ll never be able to enjoy who you are or do what you want to do. It’s time to convince yourself and be mindful that no one truly cares (and they don’t…they might for that split second or 20 minutes, but they’ll move on as quickly as they noticed). You can stop flustering your insides about putting yourself out there. Be confident and just do it.

You only have one grand life to live…what are you going to do with it?

Image Source Credits – Fashion Gone Rogue

You Should Also Read:

Confidence Is A Super Power
Want to be Happier? Start Doing these 10 Things
Why Self-Love is The Most Important Life Lesson You Will Ever Learn

The post The Key to Confidence When Putting Yourself Out There appeared first on Zanita Studio.

The many life stages you’ll go through can be invigorating, suffocating, and sometimes, outright devastating…

but these peaks and valleys are imminent, and that means you need to fork up the courage to face them head on.

Trusting your gut can be a strenuous task when you have all these other voices and influences telling you otherwise, but most of the time, you already know. You’re just seeking validation… So here are a few steps to help you work towards your life ahead and go left when right doesn’t feel so right anymore.

Note that this isn’t an excuse to be reckless. You always have a choice, and you’re always responsible for how you act no matter how you feel.

Step 1: Drown out the noise.

Why bother trying to please others when you’ll be criticized no matter what you do? Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and you’ll be talked about anytime your actions don’t align with that opinion. The point is, don’t listen, or listen, but with an open mind.

Give the hush hush to any expectations your family or friends have imposed on you as well as any you’ve instituted on yourself. There are no clearly defined paths or boundaries in life… Silence those voices.

Step 2: Deep dive.

People change. You’re exposed to clashing personalities, environments, and experiences every day. After so many years of subconsciously acquiring wisdom and breathing life in, who’s to blame for you evolving into a brand new person? There’s absolutely no need to be apologetic for the shift(s) in your convictions, interests, and direction. You, however, will need to get back in touch with yourself in order to move forward. Take some time to re-familiarize yourself with your motivations… What drives you? Bugs the shit out of you? And why?

Step 3: Get acting.

Don’t rush it. Stop wishing for things to happen (no one is going to charge in and rescue you). And don’t be afraid of the difficulties coming your way. You just need to get going even if it’s in a microscopic way.

Any transition you go through in life will feel ambiguous and scary, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. So embrace the journey and reach out to those you trust when needed. You’re not alone in this.

Step 4: Tackle the unknown.

Doubt will undoubtedly arise. There will be times you question yourself and wonder if everyone else was right… But life is full of surprises. One bad day (or week or month or even year) is just one page out of the book. In the grand scheme of things, it’ll teach you a lesson, open a new door, or force you on a totally new path. If you’re being honest with yourself, working hard, and acting with dignity, it’ll turn out alright. It always does…it’s all in your mind – your thoughts become your reality.

Step 5: Never forget the lessons.

There’s no such thing as a waste of time, a waste of effort, or a waste of life. Anything that doesn’t work guides you in a better direction and provides you with a better sense of who you are and what you want. Embrace the discomfort of unpleasant situations and appreciate the unexpected.

Image Source Cedits – Popsugar AU

You Should Also Read:

The Key to Confidence When Putting Yourself Out There
Take Back Control & Kick Anxiety to the Curb
How to Handle Change That’s Out of Your Control

The post Life Ahead: Going Left When Right Feels Wrong appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Last week, I packed up my place, hopped in the car, and drove 1400 km up the East Coast of Australia.

It sounds miserable, but instead of dreading a long boring drive, I turned it into a three-day road trip, making several stops along the way… Byron Bay was the highlight! We immediately headed to a local farmer’s market, climbed up the Cape Byron Lighthouse, and had a sunset picnic on the Wategos beach. It made the drive extend beyond an awesome little escape.

Road trips are great way to get out and do something fun without spending a ton of money (unlike flights and foreign destinations), even if you’re not heading anywhere in particular. You can find hidden beautiful places, create memories out of nothing, and strengthen relationships (or build completely brand new ones) along the way. Long car rides make a delightful starting point for conversations you may not have had; it also removes you from the distractions hereditary to the metropolis, forcing you into deep thought and appreciating everything around you. The spontaneity makes it all the better – you can stop at any point to grab coffee from the quaintest cafes or drop in mom & pop shops you’d never expect to find.

Besides all the feel-good stuff, here are other reasons you need to go on a road trip right now:

Get to know your own (or someone else’s) country better.

Who doesn’t dream about jumping on a jet and exploring this massive unknown world? Unfortunately, too many of us forget that we already live in amazing places… There are unfound trinkets waiting for you right now in your own backyard! So, if you don’t have a lot of time or you’re looking for an affordable getaway, that’s an opportunity to get to know your own (or someone else’s) country better! The glory of road tripping versus flights is all random stops you’ll make.

Create unforgettable memories.

You’ll make vivid, enduring memories because a new experience to food, places, or things always leave an imprint in your soul. Navigating can also be a fun endeavor in itself… The wrong turn can transform into robust laughter and a mysterious night out can put you into mischief… All those nuances will slap a big fat smile on that beautiful face. I’d highly recommend you get a disposable camera and document your entire trip; it’s a fun-filled surprise when you finally develop them!

Create lasting friendships or improve relationships.

Car rides stimulate deep, meaningful conversations that allow you to better understand another human! If you’re one for talking or spending time with people, a road trip is the BEST way to connect! Whether you’re enjoying each other’s company in silence, rapping or dancing along to funky tunes, or chattering away about a sad (or happy) life, it’s the perfect time to bond!

Quick Tips

Quality playlists are a must
Road trip snacks (Carrots are awesome)
Disposable camera

– Mon 

Follow Mon: Instagram, Facebook, BlogLovin
Snapchat: @mb_harper

Photos taken by Mon (35mm)

You Should Also Read:

Why You Should Pack Your Bags and Set Sail 
Why You Should Take a Hike 
5 Little Reminders to Keep You Worry Free 

The post 3 Good Reasons to Take a Road Trip NOW appeared first on Zanita Studio.

To anyone who’s ever said the future of blogging is dead: Think again.

We’re edging quickly into the end of 2016 and it’s soon to be 2017, yet people are still starting blogs! People are still reading blogs! And brands are still utilizing blogs!

That’s not to say blogging is cake, and if you intend on starting one with flocking readers and making millings, you’re in for a disappointing surprise. With an OG fashion blogger running the show over here, to say we know a thing or two about blogging would be an understatement… And we definitely have a few criteria high on the list you should consider before starting a blog.

#1 The time commitment is real.

Blogging is a time consuming “hobby” you need to be sure you can commit to. There are two parts to this whole time thing: 1. Committing to a consistent stream of posts, and 2. Committing to the time it takes to get noticed. When you have a full-time job, coming home to spend 2-3 hours writing a blog post and generating visuals isn’t the easiest undertaking. You’ll feel all gung ho in the beginning, but that passion can quickly fade into crickets when you’re not getting the results you expect. You have to think, “Am I really going to invest all my time into this thing?”

#2 Social is mandatory.

If you think social media is full of fake egotistical individuals flaunting their money and possessions (and some of them are…), blogging might not be right for you. It’s almost impossible to sustain a blog – especially related to fashion and beauty – without the social aspect. And if you’re a hardcore introvert with no desire to be a part of any networking event, good luck. Part of becoming a successful blogger is forging strong partnerships and getting on the forefront of websites (or others) with a large following – that requires social. Are you ready to be inundated with people and events you might not really be interested in?

#3 It’s all about branding.

Anyone who is an avid blog reader cares more about the individual behind the screen than what they’re actually reading or looking at. That’s kinda why Point #2 is necessary… Sure, website aesthetics are nice and all, but it always comes down to the individual blogger. Put a lot of thought into how you want to be perceived and the kind of voice you want to build, and then harness that to the best of your ability. It’s what will set you apart.

#4 Blogging is an investment.

It’s not cheap. The bar is high these days – camera equipment (maybe even hiring a photographer), editing programs like Photoshop, self-hosted websites, paying for services like Mailchimp, traveling to get the best location for your little outfit, or purchasing beauty products to review and shoot – it all adds up. Can you spare the discretional income to upkeep the competition? It sounds highly superficial, but expect to make some kind of a monetary investment no matter how big or small.

#5 You may never make it.

But you also NEVER KNOW, unless you try! That’s kind of a harsh way to put it, but if blogging was easy, everyone would be doing it for a living. There’s no harm in blogging truly as a past-time, and if you understand that it means you may never become a high-profile blogger, then they, no problem! We love blogs and bloggers of all calibers and would encourage you to keep blogging!

If you understand the commitment to these things and have truly considered them, then you very well maybe on your way to blogging success. Get started here!

Image Source Cedits – ANNICVW

You Should Also Read:

3 Questions Every Successful Blogger Asks Before a Collaboration
6 Branding Tips We Learned From Today’s Most Influential Digital Stars
3 Ways You’re Sabotaging Your Blog

The post 5 Things to Consider Before Starting a Blog appeared first on Zanita Studio.