I’ve gone through quite a bit of product over the last few months, which means I’ve made room for more!

As we all know and hear over and over, the transition into a new season also equates to new products. I’ve gotten into a little trouble refraining from buying more because my skin kinda fell into hell these last two months. But that also means I know what works and what’s hearsay. Let’s get right into by top new beauty game changers you need to know about this Spring!

Ryor Depigmentation Cream

I sometimes feel like acne scars will be the death of me! No matter how many “acids” or “lightening” creams I use, I’m always some how left feeling a little disappointed. I know it’s my fault as I shouldn’t be picking, but hey…extraction feels necessary! One of the newer products I’ve been trying out is this Ryor Depigmentation Cream I got from Our Happy Box. Ryor is an under-the-radar natural skincare brand from the Czech Republic. I’m really intrigued with the line because I feel like it actually works. Over the course of these last 3.5 weeks, my scars have slightly decreased although my skin has started to feel more dry… I’ve noticed flaky skin around the areas of my scars, which makes me feel like something is surely happening, but not in an irritating or disturbing way. By summer, I’m confident I’ll feel much better about my natural complexion. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re struggling with scars or hyper pigmentation.

Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Deep Dive Cleansing Gel

This cleanser is beauty – inside out! Although I will say it was a little drying for me in the winter; however, it’s going to be staple by summer. It’s super gentle and melts off all my makeup including my Lancome waterproof one (no rubbing or scrubbing needed). You don’t need a ton of it either – only about half a pump and you’re good to go. One bottle will def last a long time. If you’re in the market for a new cleanser, run. Don’t walk.

Glossier Cloud Paint

These Cloud Paints are the perfect cream blush for hot weather because they don’t stick. How nice is it to wear cream products without hair glued to your face? These are more of a cream, gel texture that goes on airy and light. You can intensify the color by layering on more – you really can’t mess up. Or if you like a faint wash of color like me, gently swipe, pat, and blend. They double up beautifully as lip stains too. My top two picks are Dusk & Puff. You can see why above.

Glossier Boy Brow

The brow gel for girls who have no brows, i.e. myself. I stayed away from the boy brow because I just didn’t believe it could do anything for my barely-there eyebrows. Boy was I wrong! It’s got a pomade, waxy texture that thickens and sticks! You can see it in action below, but it’s been a HUGE game changer! What on earth was I waiting for? I’d be happy with this alone on the daily  as it’s super fast and easy to work with, but since I love a thicker brow, I go back in with my Anastasia Brow Wiz. I already know you’ll love this as much as I do so get it now. (Hosting a special giveaway at my blog HERE.)

Sunday Riley Good Genes

I mentioned previously that I wasn’t sure if I liked the Good Genes, but it’s been near 6 weeks now, and I really like Good Genes! Its help with my sporadic break outs, even out my texture, and brighten up my complexion. The over all condition of my skin has improved pretty drastically. I can’t wait to pair this with the highly praised Luna Oil. Would love to hear your thoughts on this combo if you’ve tried it… And the lemongrass, citrusy scent is such a huge bonus!

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

In need of an acne treatment that brings those annoying heads to surface? This is the one. However, it is quite drying and kinda annoying that I have to use a cotton swab each time to put it on. It’s also a pain in the ass to wash off when you wake up. I only apply it at night because the pink tint is pretty obvious, but those nuances aside, it works as well as everyone says it does! Approved!

Don’t forget to enter my Glossier giveaway HERE!

Shop My Favorites!

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube SHOP

You Should Also Read:

5 New Things My Skin Absolutely Loves Right Now
Is Essence Essential in Your Skincare Routine?
Hair Products That Helped Me Survive Winter & Beyond

The post New Beauty Game Changers You Need to Know appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Not everyone who starts a blog will be successful. And not everyone who has a successful blog right now will have one later. It takes a very special person to stay relevant time and time again. You have to be able to adapt, create, and story-tell like a boss. And that’s hard work.

That’s why it’s important to strike while the iron is hot.

You have to get in there and make an impact while you can before your audience goes elsewhere. And most people haven’t figured out how to do that which is why only 4% of bloggers “make it”. So thanks to my unhealthy obsession with blogging, you get to reap the benefits because I’ve taken it upon myself to study the influencers who have made it and what they all have in common…

They have the “it” factor.

What is the “it” factor?

The “it” factor is Chiara Ferragni, Aimee Song, Danielle Bernstein, and Julie Sariñana. Having “it” is when you offer something so unique and specific to your target audience that it makes brands, companies, and other high-profile people take notice. The “it” factor is when you go from being just another blogger to socialite status.

So what’s the common thread?

Apart from Danielle, these girls are all bilingual. Speaking multiple languages is a HUGE advantage for bloggers who want to be in the 4%. You’re able to reach more people because obviously, not everyone in the world speaks English. Let’s take Julie for example… She’s Mexican-American with a high-luxe style. She appeals to the Mexican population (130 million), most of the South American population (426 million), Central America (177 million), Spain (46 million), and Americans (325 million), plus all other English-speaking countries. That’s a LOT of people!

Chiara speaks English and Italian, and Aimee Song speaks English, Korean, and Italian. Even though Danielle only speaks English, her master business skills (connections), sex appeal, and high-fashion knowledge have gotten her to where she is today. She has this ultra-cool New York elite, jet-setting lifestyle that we all want.

At this point, these bloggers are more business women than they are bloggers, but the “it” factor (along with tons and tons of hustle) is what got them there.

They found white space.

If you’re a blogger in the 4%, you most likely stepped on the scene at just the right time. You saw an opportunity and you took it at a time when blogging hadn’t quite climaxed (early 2000s). You could fill white space just by having a blog. Today, it’s much more complicated but not impossible.

You have to niche down and get specific in your craft because of the abundance of information we’re presented with day in and day out. You also have to find a problem and solve it while adding massive value to your readers. And you have to have talent, a great strategy, and be interesting enough to get people’s attention. That’s a lot of boxes to check off, which the 4% of bloggers check off time and time again.

They innovate

Bloggers in the 4% are master innovators. I mean they’re in the 4%, so naturally, they know what they’re doing at this point and they know they need to roll with the tides. Working in the digital space means having to adapt constantly.

The successful bloggers are the ones who had a blog and saw how they could leverage social media to stand out. They hopped on the bandwagon. It was different from what they were used to and some found it challenging, but they still did it because that’s what the 4% do… they innovate. The bloggers who didn’t get on social media are now suffering the consequences of their lack of innovation.

Today, there are changes within social media that bloggers have to adapt to like Instagram’s new algorithm, Insta-stories vs Snapchat, and live streaming, yet the 4% are still thriving. When bloggers find a way to take change and make it work to their benefit, that’s true innovation.

They speak social media’s language

I’ve touched on social media languages before in that each platform speaks to its audience in a different way. And it’s up to you to learn that language. If you don’t, then you won’t be in the 4%… simple as that.

YouTube’s audience is very different from Instagram’s audience which is very different from Facebook’s audience. And in order to get your message across these platforms, you have to create content in a way that is specific for each one.

For example, YouTube users are there to find information. They want to know how to use Kylie’s Lipkits or how to do Kim’s double Dutch braids. Instagram users are there to get inspiration from pretty (carefully curated) pictures. Snapchat users come for the behind-the-scenes action – they want to get to know you, see what you’re doing, and how you’re doing it. Again, only the select 4% of bloggers are multi-lingual on all social media platforms.

Now, this post isn’t to discourage you from aspiring to be a full-time blogger, in fact, it’s too inspire you to reach that 4% goal. Even if you’re not in the 4%, you can still become a full-time blogger, you just won’t be on the same playing field as the bloggers I mentioned above, and that’s ok. The fact of the matter is there will always be someone ahead of you and also behind you. So even if you feel you’re not good enough, or you feel you’re not making waves, just know that there is someone out there who would kill to trade places with you.

Which part do you struggle with the most, the “it” factor, white space, innovation, or social media? Tell us in the comments below.

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Facebook Snapchat @notanothrblonde

You Should Also Read:

2 Hard Realities Every Blogger Has to Face
My 5 Worst Blogging Mistakes
How to Beat Your Competition in Blogging

The post Why Only 4% of Bloggers “Make It” appeared first on Zanita Studio.

I just wrote about the new items I’ve added to my top shelf, but totally forgot to tell you about all the amazing beauty sales going on right now!

Despite being a little addicted to shopping for the latest & greatest in beauty, I love saving money in the process! That means I’m always taking full advantage of any event whenever the opportunity to save arises. It can sometimes be hard to keep up with all the noise, but you only need to pay close attention to the ones that matter.

So, ICYMI, here are my favorite beauty sales – happening right now:

DERMSTORE

Dermstore is running 20% off their website at the moment, which is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G because they carry a plethora of brands you can imagine from Kate Somerville to REN and Herbivore Botanicals! It’s really worth jumping on those items you’ve been watching, but didn’t quite want to fork out the funds to buy. I mentioned before how much I love shopping at Dermstore, and it’s because they never fall short of delivering.

SHOP MY PICKS

NORDSTROM

Nordstrom is having a Spring beauty event where your typical department-store beauty brands are all 15% off including Laura Mercier, Lancome, and MAC! This is extremely rare for department stores to run, so hop on the bandwagon when the opportunity presents itself. I always use this time period to stock up on my Lancome Maquicomplet Concealer and Dior goodies!

SHOP MY PICKS

CULT BEAUTY

I just learned about the benefits of buying through Cult Beauty from a blogger friend recently (and it possibly only benefits those of us in the States), but you can save serious money! The prices on the website are listed in British Pounds and also includes UK tax. If you’re living outside the EU, the taxes are deducted. Being that the USD is stronger than the Pound at the moment, the conversion comes out to be much less! I just purchased Sunday Riley Luna Oil, which is available in the US for $105 + taxes. It’s listed on Cult Beauty for 85 lbs; after deducting taxes and considering the conversion rate, I paid almost $90 USD! Yes, it’s still quite expensive, but every small saving counts! (You can also get Charlotte Tilbury, Ouai Haircare, and other luxuries here!)

SHOP MY PICKS

ULTA

Ulta is having this crazy good beauty event where you can get products from your favorite beauty brands for up to 50% off. Think Tarte, Urban Decay, Stila, and more! It includes my favorite Tarte Double Duty Powder Foundation and Laura Geller Spackle Primer! Be sure to check out the deals for yourself because there’s marvelous specials everyday until April 8 (CHECK HERE). If not, you’ll definitely be missing out!

SHOP MY PICKS

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube SHOP

You Should Also Read:

The Best Beauty Oils to Soothe Your Winter Skin
New Fall/Winter Lip Products I Can’t Put Down
New Beauty Game Changers You Need to Know

The post Best Beauty Sales to Revamp Your Top Shelf for Spring appeared first on Zanita Studio.

If you’re new to the blogging game everything can be pretty overwhelming at first.

In fact, things were overwhelming for me YEARS before the pieces started to fall into place. One thing I really struggled with was affiliate links. I wanted to make money and I wanted to make it fast (which is non-existent no matter what career you choose).

When I first started blogging, I realized no one was going to pay me to do anything because I didn’t have the experience or credibility I needed, so I spent hours upon hours researching the best affiliate link service with the highest commission because I knew that was one way I could make money.  

So then I found multiple high-commission programs and like any “super smart blogger”, I decided to join them all. Clearly that wasn’t the best choice because I spent most of my time deciding which affiliate program I’d get the most money from on that particular item instead of actually creating content (huge waste of time).

This post is dedicated to the bloggers who were just as confused as I was about affiliate links and also the readers who question the authenticity of a blogger if she uses affiliate links.

So here’s the real deal…

Bloggers have to make money…

At the end of the day, blogging is a job. It’s becoming a more widely accepted job, but some people still give bloggers a hard time when they see the #ad or #sponsored. And I’m with you, I feel icky sometimes too when I see that.

However, affiliate links/sponsored posts are necessary for a blogger’s financial survival. The only time it’s not necessary is if said blogger already has an established business and just blogs for “fun”. And even if that’s the case you should still incorporate affiliate links.

They’re really quite brilliant because they’re a way for the blogger (YOU) to make money by sharing your favorite things with your readers. And this is wrong how…? Well, it’s not, which is my point.  

The only time affiliate links or sponsored posts are “wrong” is when the blogger abuses them. For example, if a blogger puts their affiliate links everywhere (on the sidebar, at the footer, etc.) or if a blogger has #sponsored as every other Instagram post, it can be really annoying and obnoxious. Affiliate links and sponsored posts are supposed to enhance the reader’s experience not take away from it.

Why you should use affiliate links…

Obviously, you make money through affiliate links, so using them should be a no brainer. It’s passive income that literally takes little to no effort to create and makes money for you while you sleep. It’s really a win-win for you and your readers because you’re able to link the exact products you’re wearing/using so they can shop and replicate the look.

How frustrating is it when you see a blogger wearing something and you want the exact item but can’t find it anywhere? That’s where affiliate links come in handy.

They’re especially beneficial for beginner bloggers because you don’t have to wait around for brands to collaborate with you before you can start making money. You simply link your outfits, home decor, supplies, etc. and get money through every click that comes in without it being an additional cost to your readers, (more on affiliate links here).

Affiliate links are also a good way to get to know your audience better. Most, if not all, affiliate link services have a dashboard where you can monitor how many clicks you’re getting, how many sales you land, and what your most popular items are. Obviously the items that are getting the most clicks/sales are things your readers like so you want to create more content around that.

Once you figure out the logistics of your blog (your name, niche, content, social media, etc.), affiliate links should be next on your priority list. The sooner you jump on the bandwagon the sooner you can get paid. Like everything else in blogging, if you’re a little late to the affiliate game, there will be missed opportunities, but you can always start today and it’s not the end of the world. Affiliate links won’t make or break your blogging success but they definitely help you get a taste of what it’s like to get paid doing what you love.

What’s your take on affiliate links? Hate them, love them? Share with us in the comments below!

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Facebook Snapchat @notanothrblonde

You Should Also Read:

4 Effective Ways to Make Money from Affiliate Links
7 Affiliate Programs for Bloggers
 How to Make Money That Lasts From Blogging

The post The Real Deal With Affiliate Links & Why Bloggers Should Use Them appeared first on Zanita Studio.

This past Christmas, I enrolled in a few courses at Parsons here in New York. It’s been about a year since my last course (at SVA), and thought it would be a good idea to pick one up again. It’s even funner doing it with a friend, but I have always been an advocate of learning via courses.

It started in my first 3 years of university. I took a few photography, design, and even art history classes. Then during my Master’s, classes turned to workshops and conferences. And ever since moving to New York, it’s become normality. I thought it would be a great place to meet new people and make some friends, and I ended up making one great friend at a workshop.

One thing that has always motivated me to take courses is the notion that you can constantly level up.

Regardless of what you’re working on, there’s always something to learn and more you can do. That willingness to improve is what drives me. Still not convinced? Here are 5 good reasons for you to take a course:

#1 Keeps you focused

When you’re taking a course, you’re required to listen, read, study, and research with your full, undivided attention. This teaches you how to focus. Since starting my course, I’ve spent my time more carefully, reading way more articles than ever before, watching a few amazing documentaries, and learning about things I never thought I’d comprehend.

#2 Helps you improve

There are aspects of everything you can improve in… If you have a blog and want to improve your photography skills, there’s a place to learn. Or if you’re looking to build a brand for yourself, there’s something for that. Even if it’s completely unrelated to work, like learning a new language or how to cook, the options are there. It’s also amazing what you learn about yourself in the process.

#3 Gives you an advantage

I remember a friend of my mother’s, a few years ago, telling me how doctors have to constantly be taking courses, attending conferences, learning about new procedures and so on. I thought to myself how great it is, that even after selecting a career, you’re still able to become wiser. And it certainly gives you an advantage when it comes to promotions, the next job, or working for yourself. Broadening your knowledge is never a bad thing.

#4 Sharpens and expands your skills

I can’t tell you how amazing my learning journey has been. I went from studying sciences in high school (I thought I wanted to become a doctor), marketing and advertising in college, communication design in my Master’s to becoming a blogger. But all the courses I’ve done in between – photography, web design and coding, branding, retail buying – have taught me a variety of different skills that I can quickly apply to my blog. Keep expanding your skill set because you NEVER know where it’ll take you.

#5 Keeps you in the game

Courses are updated every single year – especially fashion courses, which is what I’m taking. In the process of taking a course, it’s easier to apply what you learn to the world you live in today, meaning it’s RELEVANT and applicable information. If you think about marketing 5 years ago, there would have been less case studies and emphasis on social media, but in 2017, social media is essential. Courses throughout the year take you beyond real-time and into forecasting… You begin to play close attention and develop an innate curiosity about everything around you. My current course is teaching me to analyze everything in our society and connect it back to the fashion industry. This is constantly changing, so you can imagine how this course would evolve over and over.

So, invest in yourself – take a few courses or classes. Even if it’s just to figure out what you want to do in life.

Azalle is a great place to start – plus, you can try it free for 30 days. I’d love to hear your experience if you’ve taken any classes recently.

X Eduarda

Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest

You Should Also Read:

The Influencer Economy Isn’t Collapsing – It’s Just Getting Better
Why Only 4% of the Bloggers Make It
The Real Deal With Affiliate Links & Why Bloggers Should Use Them

The post 5 Reasons Why Taking Courses Keeps You In the Game appeared first on Zanita Studio.

I get the feeling that everything is done electronically or digitally these days yet I’m the least digital person ever and can only survive on the bare essentials. I resisted iPhones for a long time because I thought having a cellphone with the actual keypad was the shit. I refused to check Facebook on my phone because I thought the desktop version was so much better. This meant I was out of the loop for quite some time if I didn’t have my computer. And we can’t let that happen right?

But lately, I’ve been taking a lot of risks and stepping out of my comfort zone because, why the hell not…

I delved into a lot of things I wasn’t normally used to mainly to keep challenging myself – I was feeling a bit stuck. And what kind of creative person would I be if I didn’t get off my ass and look into the world? I signed up for a course. I started buying stacks of magazines to browse through. And surprisingly, I even started listening to podcasts.

For those out of the loop (like me), podcasts are audio files typically available as series or daily casts. This opened up a whole new amazing world for me. You can listen to podcasts on your phone (or computer), which means I can carry it with me all the freaking time. Now my commutes are so much better…and even at home, I’m listening while cooking, taking a shower, or just hanging out.

It can be overwhelming at first because there are thousands, if not millions, of podcasts to choose from. And in the beginning, I subscribed to way too many. But after exploring a bit more, I narrowed it down to a few I’m really interested in. So here are my top 5 favorite podcasts, in no particular order:

#1 Pardon My French

The first one I subscribed to was Pardon My French, a podcast by illustrator and blogger Garance Doré. She has two different segments, one where she has candid conversations with friends and another where she interviews people in different industries (the last one I heard was with India Mahdavi, an architect and designer). In the candid conversations, you get to hear about issues that most people go through and it sounds like you’re having dinner with friends. It’s a great podcast to just have in the background and laugh to.

#2 TED Talks

This was actually the second one I subscribed to. I’ve been an avid fan of the TED talks website but listening to the podcasts is way better. You just soak yourself into the stories of the speakers. They’re always so interesting and talk about a variety of subjects.

#3 Here’s the Thing

Here’s the Thing is my favorite podcast. I could listen to Alec Baldwin talk for dayyyzzzzzz. He talks to actors, musicians, artists, and it’s so invigorating and funny. I’m constantly laughing at the conversations he has and how smart they all sound. It’s a great podcast to unwind to at the end of the day. Make sure you enjoy it with a glass of wine.

#4 The Daily

Because I don’t like turning on CNN or FOX News, I’ve been relying on this podcast from The New York Times to keep me updated on all that’s happening with the world. They are only around 20 minutes which makes it easier to listen to every day.

#5 Guys We F****d

Guys We F****d is without a doubt the funniest and most candid podcast I listen to. It’s two girls, talking about guys they fucked. But all stories are peculiar and told in a very unexpected, funny, and open way. I didn’t think I would like this sort of podcast but I actually do and I keep coming (no pun intended) back.

Do you listen to podcasts? I would love some more suggestions!

X Eduarda

Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest

You Should Also Read:

Why Taking Courses Keeps You In The Game
Why Only 4% of the Bloggers Make It
The Real Deal With Affiliate Links & Why Bloggers Should Use Them

The post 5 Podcasts That Have Changed My Life appeared first on Zanita Studio.

What better time to return to my content creating schedule than the 30th Anniversary of Matches Fashion and the beginning of one of their most exciting projects, The Style Social. I’ve been lucky enough to have a long relationship with Matches, and I’m honoured to celebrate their 30th (which happens to be just after my own 31st). Serendipity!

To say I’m relieved at the arrival of Spring would be a total understatement. The season represents a change in many things for me and signifies the end of a VISA-related ordeal which took a toll on me in many ways. I’m finally based in NYC and ready to dig deeper into all things that that inspired me to get into this industry in the first place.

For the love of fashion!

This Spring, I’m vibing the right blend of pastel, muted electric tones, and neutrals. My style over the years has been consistently retro-inspired with an added element of quirkiness. Its’ why these white Chloe Shorts are so fun – they look like they are from another time but also feel totally new.

Barrie is a Scottish brand that was acquired by Chanel in 2012 and was only recently brought to my attention. I’m totally gushing over this adorable striped cashmere top. Not to mention other pieces in the range, which comprise of the softest elegant styles with just the right amount of colour and personality.

Something kinda funny – I thought I was over 50’s styling and full a-line skirts until I saw this Bottega Veneta pairing on the runway. It’s so elegant and fresh – made modern through combining tougher elements. In the show it was worn with heavy brown boots and socks. A favourite go-to of mine – pairing opposites. Juxtaposition, an element of the unexpected is a great key to styling success and something you’ll see street style stars go to time and time again. Think lace with military, satin with suede, pastel with brown or khaki, and sportswear with an elegant heel.

Should mention it was a major buzz to have my hot little hands on this green Loewe bag…

I really feel like my sense of style has evolved over the last year. It’s become even louder and in that way, more consistent. I still have a kind of split personality style as many of us do – half my wardrobe is tomboy/sporty and the other half is quirky retro/feminine. There’s more of a punk side to my aesthetic these days too – as you might have noticed from the changing hair colours (the pink is my fave!) and growing collection of tattoos.

After 8 months of unplanned and unexpected suitcase living, I’m excited to consolidate my wardrobe and dress up more everyday to share with you my story of personal style and expression… and then just more of my personal story too. Hope you all like this post in collaboration with The Style Social – a social hub where you can find all things style and Matches Fashion related.

Missed you all very much – Zanita x

Look 1.

Barrie knit, Chloe Shorts, Raey Coat, Marni Bag – All from MatchesFashion.com

Look 2

Bottega Veneta skirt, Bottega Veneta shirt, Tibi trench coat, Loewe Bag – All from MatchesFashion.com

Post sponsored by Matches Fashion

The post Enter Spring: Two Looks To Inspire Your New Season Wardrobe appeared first on Zanita Studio.

It’s not everyday that you pick up an organic beauty product and fall in love with it, but ILIA shocks us with every single thing we touch…

(You can read our ILIA reviews here, here, here, and here.)

We loved the line so much we had to find out more, and that meant picking the brains of the mastermind behind ILIA – Sasha Plavsic. If you haven’t heard of the brand nor touched it, consider yourself missing out. Count on ILIA to change your mind and opinions about organic makeup… Here, she divulges how she got her start in beauty, what’s in store for ILIA, and what’s to come in the organic beauty industry.

Long before beauty, Sasha has always embraced an organic and natural lifestyle as her younger brother suffered from acute asthma and allergies. She then got her start in the industry by accident, working with a creative staffing agency that led to a short stint with Urban Decay in 2009. She soon decided to fuse her love for design with beauty and embarked on an entrepreneurial journey that led to the contrivance of the ILIA Tinted Lip Conditioner, which most people see as a hybrid between lipstick and lip balm. She chose lipstick because it’s one of the easiest to ways to make you feel somewhat pulled together and empowered, and also because everyone loves lip balm! From there, she sent off samples to her ideal boutiques, like Colette in Paris, who picked it up, and things took off from there.

We all know that there are challenges and rewards in any business, and Sasha confirms it, saying her toughest challenge is realizing that you can’t control external factors, but you can control how you react to them. It’s never an easy thing to do or remember, but completely necessary when times get tough. However, never forget that the rewards are many, which comes in the form of her team and celebrating small wins – they add up to much bigger rewards and successes.

Sasha’s top advice for aspiring beauty entrepreneurs is to remember that every problem has a solution, and you will learn as you go. There certainly isn’t a manual on how to run a beauty business…being more naive in the beginning worked to her advantage as it makes anything feel possible.

As far as the organic beauty industry goes, Sasha says, “There is definitely more awareness here than before. I think defining what natural, organic, and clean mean will become important and how the customer can relate to those ideals. One thing is for sure, people are on the hunt for cleaner products that perform.” That means everyone in this realm will be powering up. Sasha is doing this with ILIA by refreshing the entire line… It will include a host of new products in nearly every category, which will launch over the next two years. (Watch this space… we’re super excited ourselves.)

For the ILIA (or natural beauty) neophyte, Sasha recommends starting with the Tinted Lip Conditioner in Arabian Knights – it suits every skin tone, the Lip Exfoliator and Balmy Nights because they really work, and the Illuminator in Polka Dots and Moonbeams (both give that dewy but not glittery look).

She keeps her routine super simple, starting with the ILIA Cucumber Water Stick (coming out in April) to prep the skin and add a quick boost of moisture, a light wash of the Vivid Foundation (in Gobi), buffed out with the Perfecting Buff Brush, the Multi-Stick in At Last for lips and cheeks, and a coat of a new mascara (which launches later this year)!

You can visit ILIA BEAUTY for more information or shop ILIA at Sephora and Net-a-Porter. As fans of the line, we highly encourage you to!

You Should Also Read:

All-Natural Beauty Products That Will Blow Your Mind
New Fall/Winter Lip Products I Can’t Put Down
How to Get the Perfect Date Night for Valentines Day

The post How ILIA is Changing the Organic Beauty Industry appeared first on Zanita Studio.

DISCLAIMER: The following is strictly an opinion based on my personal experience and ideas. I have not been clinically diagnosed with anxiety.

Ok now that that’s out of the way let’s talk about blogger anxiety.

Anxiety is one of those terms that is loosely used today or perhaps it’s not loosely used at all and it’s something that is increasingly becoming an issue in our society.

And I 100% think technology/social media is part of the problem. We can now do everything in the comfort of our homes and in the palm of our hands through our phones. We don’t have to go shopping thanks to Amazon, we don’t have to go to parties thanks to Houseparty, and we don’t have to meet someone in person to hear them speak thanks to Snapchat and YouTube. And because of this, we could go as long as we want without real human interaction. And for a blogger whose main purpose is to connect with people, that can be a little bit of a problem.

When you start a blog you automatically sign up to have your life in the public eye. I mean you’re literally putting your story, your creative baby, and your vulnerabilities into the world for everyone to see. And because of this, people get this idea of you in their heads of what you’re supposed to be like, look like, act like, etc. And if you don’t meet those requirements you’re judged at best and bullied at worst – neither of which are fun – but hey it comes with the territory. Personally, my anxiety “flares up” whenever I encounter the 3 scenarios below…

Appearing confident

When you’re a blogger people just assume you have this sky-high confidence. Well, you don’t. I mean, I’m sure some do, but I certainly have moments of insecurity just as much as anyone else.

Anyway, my anxiety started long before I was a blogger. I was in college giving a presentation and all of a sudden I heard people start to laugh. Did I have something in my teeth? Was my fly down? Did I mess up my slideshow? What was it?!

Normally I would be able to acknowledge what happened and laugh it off but because I didn’t know, and I’ll never know, I just assumed the class was laughing at me. Yes, I’m well aware it could have had nothing to do with me, but I was convinced it did.

Anyway, prior to this I was a very engaged student, I always sat at the front of the class, raised my hand to answer every question, took the lead in small groups, but after that one tiny incident, I became very withdrawn. I then had digestive issues (which I saw a doctor about) and experienced hot flashing which resulted in me sitting in the back of the room next to the door (in case I had to leave because of my anxiety) for every single class. Sounds fun right?

I think I was so drawn to blogging because I could express myself without actually having to face anyone. No one could laugh at me, I was relaxed, and I could sit wherever I wanted. Plus I was able to really be myself and let my true personality shine through – none of that quiet, nervous girl nonsense from college. It’s super easy to be confident behind a computer screen.

But like I’ve talked about before, bloggers aren’t just bloggers anymore. There is so much more involved – a lot more human interaction from meetings to speaking events to hosting launch parties. Most of which I’ve had to face and experienced anxiety every single time.

The more I do it and the more I encounter uncomfortable situations, the easier it get. I’m not sure I’ll ever not feel uncomfortable for those types of things, but I’m hopeful which is why I keep forcing myself to face them. In fact, I’m speaking about blogging at a career fair in the next few days and my anxiety is through the roof, but I’m doing it anyway because I have to.

Offending someone

Unless you’re a total bore with zero personality, you will most likely offend someone at some point in your blogging career. I’ve “offended” people several times. And here’s what I say to that: if you don’t like it, don’t look at it. Stop following me, stop consuming my content, stop talking to me if you have a problem with my opinions.

I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t have a filter which has gotten me into trouble a few times, but here’s the thing, I’m not malicious. I don’t sit here thinking of a master plan to offend anyone. Sometimes I’m very blunt and sometimes my jokes get taken out of context, but at the end of the day, it’s my blog and my platform and I can choose to say and do whatever I want and it’s not my fault if you choose to interpret something differently than how it was intended. Boom.

Even though I write that with strong conviction, I still get anxious over every Facebook post, Instagram caption, Snapchat, and blog post; like “Oh geez, I hope I phrased this right” or “Man, I don’t know if I should say that”. I’d be lying if I said it didn’t suck.

Falling behind

Sometimes I get so overwhelmed with what I want to do, what I should be doing, and what I need to do, that I become paralyzed and don’t do anything. I never realized the importance of taking time for yourself and taking a vacation, but it is SO important.

I don’t think I’ve ever needed a vacation more in my life than I do right now. And I have yet to take one because I’m so anxious over “falling behind”. FOMO (fear of missing out) is real, yet ironically I end up missing more due to my stress. When really if I take a vacation or unplug for a few days, I’ll end up refreshed, inspired, and ready to create all kinds of kick-ass content! Even though the signs are there that I’m burning my candle at both ends, I just can’t let go of the hustle.

My holistic approach to anxiety

Since I haven’t been clinically diagnosed with anxiety, I’m not on any medication. Even if I was diagnosed I wouldn’t take anything because I believe my anxiety is 100% controllable (not saying this is the case for everyone, but for me it is). I have learned to deal with it through meditating, yoga, limiting my alcohol consumption, using an oil diffuser, and getting a Himalayan salt lamp (if you watch my Instastories, you know I swear by my lamp). I also try not to eat a lot of sugar or caffeine because both of those things intensify my anxiety.

I think what helps the most is convincing myself that it’s not the end of the world. It’s mind over matter. When I really try to focus on my purpose – why I’m doing something – that anxious pit in my stomach subsides.

Going to an event isn’t about me, it’s about the person hosting it. Telling my story how I see fit isn’t for people who oppose my views, it’s for the people who feel inspired by them. And it’s not about what I’m not doing, it’s about what I am doing and as long as I’m doing something, I won’t fall behind.

I really hope you take something away from this post because I know how debilitating anxiety can be and it’s a conversation that should be addressed… especially in blogging.

Do you suffer from blogger anxiety? If you feel comfortable please share your story in the comments below.

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Facebook Snapchat @notanothrblonde

You Should Also Read:

2 Hard Realities Every Blogger Has to Face
How to Handle the Pressure of Being a Blogger 
How to Find Bloggers You Can Trust

The post My Struggle With Blogger Anxiety appeared first on Zanita Studio.

I always talk about how grateful I am for the opportunity to work with a true #dreamteam (i.e. Zanita, Gustav, & all the amazing contributors at the Studio), and I still am!

I’ve learned far more things about real life in the last year than I did working in corporate (no hate).

One of the best experiences I’ve had is the opportunity to build Azalle from ground zero and work hand-in-hand with influencers I would have only known from the swipe of my phone. I have a HUGE responsibility managing the course creation process, which means I work directly with every single influencer. I’ve had the luxury of meeting and conversing intellectually with Zanita (obviously), Sonya Esman, Jenny of Margo & Me, Louise Roe, Sandra Semburg – and I know there are tons more to come. I pick and pry at their brains, and I think it’s time to share the most value I’ve gained from each of them!

Zanita

My photography work is heavily influenced by Zanita – most of what I learn is through editing her courses on Azalle… You’ll be surprised at how much you know about a certain subject when you have to teach it. (There’s much reinforcement that comes with educating.) My favorite lessons here were related to editing and Photoshop. Specifically, breaking down an image into highlights, mid-tones, and shadows and starting the color grading process there. I also learned to selectively edit parts of an image using the lasso and/or pen tool. Although these sound pretty obvious, they weren’t so obvious in the process. Prior to Zanita’s course, I’d never even touch the lasso – it makes a dramatic difference if used correctly.

Sonya Esman

I’d heard of Sonya before, but never really took the time to engage in her channels. Talking to her quickly made me realize her appeal – she is WISE beyond her age and shares her experiences bluntly. What I love about Sonya is her emphasis on the subconscious and removal of fear and negativity from her decisions. If there’s one thing I can share that I picked up, it’s that you’re never stuck… If whatever you’re doing is bringing forth anxiety or feels forced – whether that’s your job, relationships, or hobbies – you should be questioning whether it’s the right thing for you. You truly need to hear Sonya speak for yourself… Really a breath of fresh air. I 100% recommend this course.

Jenny of Margo & Me

Jenny is the most business-minded influencer I have ever met… I would have never thought blogging would require meticulous business planning, but Jenny has proven otherwise. I learned from Jenny that it’s important to identify what makes you special from the get go… That means figuring out what you want people to value about your brand, deciding what inspires and motivates you most, knowing how you want your brand to look and feel, and understanding how you want people to feel when they enter your blog. Then, stay focused on delivering those qualities consistently. Anyone struggling with branding could truly benefit here.

Louise Roe

Louise’s energy is magnetic… Her background is unique in that she’s a celebrity and an influencer… A magazine editor and blogger… She totally respects our industry. Louise taught me that the key to confidence is slowing down and continuing to do what you’re doing. For instance, in presentations, keep presenting; in interviews, keep answering (or asking) questions; and on social media, keep sharing – perseverance is key and preparation helps. Every time I feel flustered, I remember to just keep going.

Sandra Semburg

Sandra is seriously girl next door – completely relatable in all aspects of life. I love that her career essentially happened by chance (although we know how insanely talented she is). I love street style photography and always strive to emulate that “look” when shooting. Sandra taught me to look for natural movement – you always want to catch a moment that feels natural to the person. It’s the same idea as getting someone to look straight into your camera when you tell them you’re taking a photo, but then you don’t actually take the photo. You wait and then snap – that’s the moment that’s a better moment.

Overall, it’s been a joy working with these influencers on Azalle. I’ve realized how little I know about this industry and I’m sure all of you will find these courses as useful as I do. I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve tried Azalle (along with influencers you’d love to learn from).

xo,

Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube SHOP

You Should Also Read:

5 Reasons Why Taking Courses Keeps You In the Game
The Greatest Thing I’ve Ever Done
How Blogging Helped Me Become Who I Am Today

The post What I Learned from Top Influencers Through Azalle appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Disclaimer: Not sponsored

There’s been so much buzz and around Glossier, and the one thing I can add is, believe the hype.

Glossier was one of those brands I refused to buy into from the beginning just because I’m always skeptical of everything that’s highly raved about in the blogosphere. Silly me… That’s never a good reason to not buy something. Anyway, I know that we have a lot of international readers, so I think you all will be thrilled to hear that Glossier is launching in the UK later this year.

I’ve reviewed a few Glossier products here and there, but finally decided to put together a thorough guide that includes my top picks. Before we get deeper, here’s who Glossier is for: Anyone deeply rooted in skincare and loves makeup that doesn’t look like makeup. If you don’t have a lot of time, but always want to look fresh and presentable, you’ll no doubt love the multitasking capabilities of the entire line. You probably won’t like Glossier if you have an affinity for full-coverage makeup… In other words, if you appreciate makeup that looks like bam-in-your-face makeup, Glossier may not be a good fit for you. Now onto my top picks (in order):

#1 Priming Moisturizer Rich

I’m always nagging about my dry skin because it’s a serious issue. I’ve tried countless moisturizers (including vaseline when I was so desperate), but never really found a solution. It gets so bad to the point where I can’t wear makeup because it turns into a scaley mess. This product is like butter for your face. It’ll be too rich for this upcoming heat, but I’ll never forget how PMR essentially saved my face last season. The best part is it’s only $35 (when I almost forked out $200 for some super luxury ones). My skin ends up feeling plump and looks really dewy and healthy, becoming the perfect canvas for makeup. I love this far more than the original Priming Moisturizer.

#2 Super Pure Serum

The Super Pure knows how to calm irritated skin. I’ve gone through 6 bottles – that’s how committed I am to it. It’s only a little annoying that they only come in .5 oz bottles. The texture feels amazing on the skin and sits really nicely underneath moisturizer and makeup. I only use this product during the day though because the formula is quite light and I prefer to nuke my skin with retinols overnight. That means anyone with sensitive skin will absolutely love it.

#3 Boy Brow

I keep repeating this but I mean it… This product is every no-brow girl’s dream come true. In this tube is a pomade, waxy formulation that thickens brow hairs and doesn’t budge. I love a thicker (but natural) brow so I will go back in with a pencil to define and thicken, but Boy Brow far exceeded my expectations. It was one of the last Glossier products I tried, but has become a staple in my everyday routine – not exactly sure how I survived without it to begin with. The pigmentation and intensity are also on point. I use Black, but it’s not obnoxiously black that I look ridiculous. It’s the most perfect brow gel I’ve ever used.

#4 Stretch Concealer

Whenever I’m in a rush, I know I’m grabbing Stretch Concealer. It goes on super fast and stays put. It also works underneath the eyes – brightening and concealing – and on any redness or scars around my face. I love how smooth and wearable it is, never caking up and stays looking like skin. I’d go as far to say that this is the most natural-looking concealer I have ever used. Plus, the shade medium is perfect for my skin tone.

#5 Haloscope – Moonstone

You all know how much I love my highlight, but I used to never wear highlighter during the day because I felt it was too harsh. Glossier changed my mind completely with Moonstone because it almost just looks balmy. There are no visible sparkles, shimmer, or glitter, so I never feel like I’m overdoing it. If anything, I think it’s similar to the balm side of Pat McGrath’s Skin Fetish. It’s really one of the most unique highlighters in my stash.

Have you tried Glossier? What do you think? Don’t forget that you can shop with me and get 20% off your first order or get free shipping through 4/11 with ‘HELLOLA’! 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube SHOP

You Should Also Read:

The Lipstick We’ve All Been Waiting For
How to Put Your Best Face Forward for Fall
New Beauty Game Changers You Need to Know

The post Top 5 Picks from this Cool-Girl Beauty Brand appeared first on Zanita Studio.

As I’ve mentioned a thousand times before, every emotion that you’ve ever felt, someone else has felt it too. There is nothing so special about you that no one can relate to.

We have all been there.

That being said, every blogger (big and small) has considered quitting and/or questioned every single thing he/she has done regarding their blog. It’s a totally common and normal feeling.

In fact, if you plan to turn your blog into a business and the thought of that doesn’t scare you, then you should consider getting into another field. While quitting should never be an option, here are some indicators that it might be time for a break or time to quit blogging altogether:

1. You’re not happy

If the thought of blogging stresses you out constantly or if you’re miserable 99% of the time, you should probably quit. Don’t get me wrong, we all have our breakdown moments (if you’re a girl these moments usually happen once a month – every 28 days to be exact), but generally if you’re meant to be a blogger, blogging makes you happy most of the time.

Blogging should be something that uplifts you and gives you purpose. You find it extremely rewarding because of the people you impact along the way. Motivation and inspiration should come naturally (not all the time) but it definitely shouldn’t be a challenge every time you go to create content.

When it starts to feel like work, and I mean really grueling – like you would do anything to avoid it kind of work, that’s another indication that it may be time to move on to something else. Your happiness should always come above everything else. Because without it, your blog, your relationships, and your quality of life will ultimately suffer.

2. You’re not growing

If you’ve been blogging for some time now, like years, and you’re still around the same place you started, you either have to try something different or consider another path.

I always recommend trying something different first but if that “fails”, then it may be time to call it quits. (By the way, just because one idea or one blog/business fails, doesn’t mean it will be that way with everything you do.) Sometimes it takes a few times to get it right.

However, growth is imperative to having a sustainable blog or business. If you’re not growing, someone else will grow in your place, and that will make things even more frustrating for you. This may sound harsh but if you’ve tried everything you can and you’re still not growing, it’s best to cut your losses and move on… unless you’re still happy in which case keep it goin’!

3. You’re super sensitive to other people’s opinions

Blogging requires you to pull back the curtains on your life… And when you do, you’re opening yourself up for criticism – from strangers who’ve never even met you. Although there are some very kind people in this world, there are also some insensitive (or overly sensitive) individuals in this world who you will never please. I realize this happens in life daily, but the Internet magnifies it to the nth degree. 

If you take other people’s negativity very heavily and personally (to the point where you’re no longer living comfortably or confidently), it might be time to evaluate a hiatus whether that’s temporary or permanent.

Ultimately the only person who can decide if/when to quit blogging is you. No one can sit here and tell you what’s best for you because they don’t know… but you do. You are the only person who can assess your happiness, growth, and sensitivity level. And once you do those things, you’ll know whether to keep grinding it out or move on to the next one.

What keeps you blogging? Tell us about it in the comments below!

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Facebook Snapchat @notanothrblonde

You Should Also Read:

Why Only 4% of Bloggers Make It
2 Hard Realities Every Blogger Has to Face
My 5 Worst Blogging Mistakes

The post How to Know When to Quit Blogging (or Take a Break) appeared first on Zanita Studio.

No matter what stage you’re at in life, difficult life-changing decisions are inevitable.

The bad news is the further along in life you move, the more complex those dilemmas become.

While we know the decision making process is never easy especially when involving several people or potentially impacts several lives, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Here’s our best advice for making smart choices in difficult situations:

– Give it time.

Never feel compelled to rush difficult decisions because the last thing that you want is a choice you end up regretting. Time is precious, but decisions you can be happy with are even more precious. So, whenever you’re in a difficult situation, don’t be afraid to wait a few days or until you feel more confident about the choice you’re making. That’s not to say delay it until the last minute – just make sure your verdict has time to marinate before jumping the gun. What’s meant to be yours will still be yours.

– Perceive your situation as an outsider.

We all know that we give better advice (and make smarter decisions) when we’re NOT actually in the situation. Everything is easier said than done especially when you’re not emotionally invested. That means when you’re making difficult decisions, try to look at yourself from an objective point-of-view. What would you say if this was your sister, a best friend, or even your mom? And then, what would you do?

– Limit intake.

When stressed, we also have the tendency to seek advice… We turn to the internet, friends we trust, and family. However, the answer is in you. When consuming information from everyone around you, you might get conflicting advice…maybe some you want to hear and others you don’t want to hear. What you have to remember is that in the end, it comes down to YOU. No one will live with the consequences of your actions except yourself. At some point, you have to quit asking and decide for yourself.

– When in doubt _____.

Make a decision and stick with it. The funny thing is in the next 5-10 years, none of what you’re worried about will matter or happen. It only feels heavy and devastating in the moment when the emotions are high. Fear of regret leads to a period where nothing happens and your problem winds up blooming into something worse. The best thing you can do right now is make a choice and do it (but don’t base your decision on what you think you’re “supposed” to or “expected” to do).

One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth. Growth must be chosen again and again; fear must be overcome again and again.” – Abraham Maslow

You Should Also Read:

5 Podcasts That Have Changed My Life
How Blogging Helped Me Become Who I Am Today
5 Things I’m Giving Up for a Happier Life

The post How to Make Smart Choices in Difficult Situations appeared first on Zanita Studio.

It’s come to my attention that one of the most important aspects of blogging, and most frequently asked questions is about growing your following. Although there isn’t one exact formula that works for everyone, there are 2 very specific steps that every successful blogger has taken to get him/her to where he/she is today.

This secret sauce will work for any platform… I repeat any platform (your blog, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat, etc.). It is a guideline to follow that, in combination with having talent and a strategy, will 100% work to grow your following. However, each blogger’s situation will be different so don’t get too caught up in the logistics and instead focus on the general idea.

So, for the next few weeks, we’re going to explore the different social media audiences and how to leverage that to grow your blog in a little mini series. (Leave a comment below with what platform you want to know more about… Instagram, Snapchat, etc. and I’ll give you a shout out in the next blog post.)

But before we do all that, let’s talk about what you have to do right now regardless of what platform you’re trying to grow…

Get to know your audience

Getting to know your audience is something that every single blogger should do every single day. Ok, well, at least once a month. Why?

Aside from the obvious reason that it’s a nice thing to do, it will also help you grow your following. When you really try, and I mean really try, to get to know your audience (what their names are, what kind of stuff they’re interested in, what their goals are, etc.) you will gain their trust, which will convert them into lifelong followers.

And what do you do when you trust someone/something? You talk about it!

So ultimately when your current following trusts you, they’ll talk about you to their friends, and then their friends will talk about you to their friends, and so on. And with word of mouth like that, your growth rate will be unstoppable.

For example, let’s say you ask your followers where their favorite places to shop are. Then, you give those who answered a shoutout on Instastories.

You’re doing two things here: 1. you’re getting to know your audience by asking them questions, and 2. you’re showing you care that they answered by giving them a shoutout. This is the foundation for a trusted relationship with your followers which is what will help your blog biz grow in the long run.

Create content based on what your followers want

Once you start engaging with your followers more and asking them questions, you get a sense of your typical follower, which means you can create more of what that person wants. And when people get what they want, it makes them V happy, which means they’ll keep coming back for more. Maybe your typical follower is someone who’s ballin’ on a budget, someone who loves to travel abroad, or someone who struggles with eating healthy…

If, for example, your typical follower is an aspiring fashionista on a budget, you would create content geared toward that (e.g. super affordable outfits, doing more with less, stores with the best sales, etc.). Odds are your current followers have friends/followers that are interested in the same things, meaning they’re on a budget too, in which case they’ll be likely to follow you, too.

Ultimately you want your followers to feel like they’re a part of the journey – you want them to grow with you. You also want to find out their biggest challenges and be the one to provide solutions with your content. The more value you add the more followers you’ll get, pinky promise.

Ok, now it’s your time to shine. What specifically do you want to know about growing your following? What platforms are you interested in learning more about? Tell us in the comments below for a shoutout in the next post!

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Facebook Snapchat @notanothrblonde

Image Source Credits – WhoWhatWear

You Should Also Read:

 Why Only 4% of Bloggers Make It
How to Be Business Savvy & a Nice Person
5 Things to Know Before Starting a Blog

The post The Secret Sauce to Growing Your Following appeared first on Zanita Studio.

I’m sure you’re familiar with that churning feeling in your stomach when the comfortable becomes uncomfortable.

That feeling that forces you to wallow in your thoughts – What if… I should have… If only…

I’ve always been one to feel like I was in complete control of my life. I would never blindly pursue something without having a back up, and if something felt the slightest out of order, I’d be brimming with worry until the next day (and sometimes longer). I believed everything was cause and effect, but the older I got the more things took a turn on me whether or not I did anything to cause it. And so it was proven… You’re not always in control. These last two years, I’ve really trained myself to become comfortable with the uncomfortable. However, I’ve noticed how many people around me haven’t and still don’t adapt to the unknown. Here’s what helped me and can help you too.

Stop over-analyzing.

The more you analyze a decision, the less likely you are to do it. I’ve realized that when I worry about the things that may never happen, my fears over power my optimism, and as a result, I never take action. If something feels right and it makes you happy, even if the world is against you, just do it. The end result will be worth it.

Understand the root cause.

Ask yourself: What are you afraid of? Is it the fear of failure? What people will say? Pride? Once you confront the issue and get to the root cause, it’s easier to see how the mind plays games. You have to consciously condition yourself to get out of it.

Accept all possibilities.

Accepting all possibilities means being ok with failing. When you accept that failure is a part of the process, the pressure falls off. I’m not saying you won’t doubt yourself or question your decisions, because you inevitably will, but accepting all possibilities will make you that much more fearless.

Remember, fall 7 times, stand up 8!

Drown out the noise.

Stop worrying about getting yourself to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. Don’t focus on making choices that scare you. And ignore all the voices around you. If you allow something negative in your territory, you’re opening yourself to misery and bad influences. Drown out the noise and let yourself peacefully gain perspective.

Live a little.

Most importantly, don’t forget to live a little – exist in the moment and embrace everything that’s happening to you right now. Life could be worse… Give thanks and carry on.

By openly facing the uncomfortable, you can accept more of your circumstances no matter what they are and how difficult they become.  Keep pushing yourself further, and you might just take the leap that leads you to the place you’ve always wanted to be.

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube SHOP

You Should Also Read:

5 Things I’m Giving Up for a Happier Life
Today’s Hefty Dose of Confidence Boosters
How to Make Smart Choices in Difficult Situations

The post How to Become Comfortable with the Uncomfortable appeared first on Zanita Studio.

First and foremost, I missed writing for Zanita Studio, which has become a lot like my second digital home for about a year now. It’s funny how things in life go and how you become accustomed to having that daily routine.

And it’s even funnier how having a daily routine can leave us muddled to the point where we’re not even sure what’s happening in life.

I’m a very absorbent and anxious person, so when I have a task to knock out, I feel like I’m incapable of focusing on anything else. For example, I was taking a course at Parson’s, which finalized this past week – and I could not put my energy elsewhere outside completing the course. I have an obnoxious drive to finish something before moving on. This often leaves me feeling sick all the time because nothing ever seems to be completed.

But I had to remind myself that we ourselves are a work in progress.

So I took a step back. I stopped posting here and on my own blog, I Life You, and focused solely on my final projects and exams. It’s not the best way to deal with stress, but I sometimes feel incapable of doing a good job when I try to focus on too many things at once. It’s just proof that one must find a formula that works and do it.

I’ve also been struggling with finding myself and figuring out what I want to do and what my life will look like in the next year. The problem with living in New York is that things are constantly changing. And you don’t have time to stop and smell the roses. The people, the rhythm, the pace – they don’t stop!

So, what’s a small town girl supposed to do? Let it ride? Join the ride? Get off the ride? I’m at an all time impasse trying to understand what it is that I really want to do. I’m a creative, so I definitely need one or more outlets to glide.

But I’m also tired of this constant need to be relevant. Remember the days when discussions occurred throughout meals because no one had phones to prove them right or wrong? I miss moments of unplugging from everything and inhaling the moment. Enjoying people’s company. Having great conversations that don’t center around phones, Instagram, or the web. I miss not worrying about numbers and just wondering if that boy likes me or not.

Of course we all have to grow up and ride the tides. Or should we keep fighting it? I would love some advice, if you’re going through the same feelings – uninspired, unmotivated, and down-  Let’s help each other out!

Have a great weekend everyone!

X Eduarda

Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest

You Should Also Read:

How To Become Comfortable With The Uncomfortable
How To Make Smart Choices In Difficult Situations
5 Podcasts That Have Changed My Life

The post When You’re Not Sure What’s Happening in Life appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Disclaimer: This is a sequential 3-part series. Click here for the intro blog post.

Last week we talked about growing your following and I mentioned we’d be doing a mini-series on getting to know your audience in what I believe to be the most important social media channels right now: YouTube, Snapchat, and Instagram.

So, first up… YouTube.

YouTube is one of those platforms that has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride. First, it’s up, up, up, then it’s down, then it’s back up again. If you haven’t guessed already we are in the “up” stage of YouTube and if I do say so myself, I think we’re at an absolute peak.

How do I know this?

Well, first I look at what I’m doing – I found myself YouTubing videos about the best cameras to use for YouTube videos… and this wasn’t just one time… Anytime I have a question about anything I go to YouTube and search for a tutorial.

Then I look at what other people are doing. I see my Facebook feed flooded with videos being shared by my friends; I see people on the subway watching different videos, my boyfriend watching surfing videos, and even my mom is on YouTube watching beauty hauls! If that’s not a perfect indication of where our attention is, I don’t know what is.

So now that we know YouTube is the place to be, let’s kick off the first part of our mini series by getting to know your YouTube audience so you can kill it.

Ask for recommendations

The first way to get to know your audience on YouTube is to ask for honest recommendations. If you don’t have a YouTube following yet, you can ask on one of your other social channels. This can be done in two ways: 1. Ask your followers to share their favorite YouTube accounts and/or 2. ask what kind of videos they want to see from you.

When you find out the types of YouTube accounts they follow, it gives you an indication of the type of content that interests them. You can use this info to create similar content. Maybe they follow a lot of beauty gurus, destination-travel vloggers, or maybe they watch a lot of how-tos.

Regardless, asking questions is one of the easiest ways to get to know your followers better.

Check out their profiles

Even if you ask, you may not always get the response you want. So, you need to take matters into your own hands and do some slight stalking…

Go to your followers’ profiles (YouTube, Instagram, etc.) and check out their activity – who they follow, what types of content they’re liking, what pictures/videos they’re posting, etc. When you do this, you may see some similarities across your followers, which will act as a guide to determine what types of content they want to see.

You might also be able to find something your followers struggle with. This will allow you to swoop in and save the day with a solution. And saving the day through a little “stalking” can go a long way on YouTube, trust me.

Look at what videos get the most views

Another easy indicator to see what your audience is into is by looking at your video stats. Check out what videos got the highest views and thumbs up, etc. It also won’t hurt to take a look at what videos didn’t do so well so you can avoid making them in the future.

When you look at the videos with the most views, consider the type of video it is (educational, inspirational, entertaining), the title of your video, and the description (pay attention to keywords). Those 3 things will determine how you should set up the rest of your videos in the future.

It’s almost like a fail-proof recipe, but the recipe takes time to perfect so have patience and don’t get blogged down if you don’t nail it right away.

Now we want to get to know you, who are your favorite YouTubers? Tell us in the comments below!

P.S. You can learn from the best and build your YouTube audience with Chloe Morello or Sonya Esman on Azalle.

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram Facebook Snapchat @notanothrblonde

You Should Also Read:

How to Use YouTube to Build a Brand
The Best Ways to Use Video on Your Blog
The One Goal All Bloggers Should Have in 2017

The post Get to Know Your Audience: YouTube (Part 1/3) appeared first on Zanita Studio.

While I wish I could say working from home with a 4-year old is rainbows and PJs, it’s not…

Luckily, that only lasted a few short weeks, and my workflow today has become much more efficient and seamless after much trial and error.

To give you an idea of how absurd it was, here’s what usually happened: our team would start the day with a video conference call and my son LOVES attention, so he’d run into my office and dance in the background bottomless. It was ridiculously embarrassing to say the least – but I was lucky to have some kick ass bosses who laughed about it rather than scold me for it. Anyway, here’s how I was able to work from home as a mom:

Be Flexible (Mandatory).

I can’t tell you how many times I was in the middle of a task or writing and I suddenly hear, “MOMMMMY!!” In the beginning, this would bug me the most because to stop in the midst of a creative writing spree is every writer’s worst nightmare. I’ve learned to be flexible… In this case, I’ll quickly jot down my ideas, step away, and then come back to it. Usually, once I tend to my son (even if only for a few minutes), he’s fine being alone. My daughter is also in school, so I’ll leave my house around 2:30 pm to pick her up, and then get back to work at 4 pm – 6 pm. It’s very push and pull, which is why flexibility is key. The only time this doesn’t work is when I’m having a meeting.

Figure out a routine.

Kids need a routine. You can make them adapt to your schedule (not the other way around)… It sets expectations  – but you have to figure it out for them. This means sticking to consistent meal times, snacks, and making time for one-on-one. I know my son is needy so I’ll take an hour during lunch to do things he wants to do like play dinosaurs or wrestle. After a few weeks of resisting, he finally understood that we can play, but then mama has to go back to work or else he has to go to a babysitter.

Be consistent.

Consistency is key to figuring out a routine. When you set a time for something, stick to that time everyday the best you can. This includes bathing time, bedtime, and waking up along with meals. For my family, it took about 3 weeks of consistency before we found our rhythm. Life felt very tumultuous in that transition, but it was nice to be able to see my kids and interact with them more on a regular basis. It does require me to work at night some days, but I’d much prefer that than to sit in annoying traffic for a few hours.

Be prepared.

There are times when I have long calls or meetings. Luckily, I always know in advance when this will happen. And this means my kids cannot be around, which is when I’ll arrange a babysitter. Doing so means everything else needs to be planned accordingly (e.g. meals, snacks, and drop-off and pick-up times). Doctor appointments and sick days also happen so just be ready for those as well.

Get fresh air.

Though I love being home, it can be exhausting to never step outside and have real human interaction with people other than your children. I have worked in coffee shops or at a friend’s house (who also works from home), and I’ve also stepped out to grab lunch. You’ll be surprised at what a small breath of fresh air can do for you!

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube SHOP

You Should Also Read:

5 Things I’m Giving Up for a Happier Life
Today’s Hefty Dose of Confidence Boosters
How to Make Smart Choices in Difficult Situations

The post How I Manage to Work From Home as a Mom appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Even though I’m still uncertain of where my life should be going, one thing is for sure: time waits for no one. And whining isn’t getting me anywhere, but getting off my ass might.

Almost 2 months ago, I was invited to do an Instagram takeover of a company I worked with. I was still going through class at the time and asked if we could make it happen once that was over. They kindly agreed so we postponed it until the end of April (aka this past week).

Last Tuesday, I woke up to an entire day’s takeover and wanted to share that experience with you. The company works with bloggers, influencers, and small businesses, so it felt like the perfect match seeing that I was also attending an influencer conference Zanita spoke at. We established ground rules the day before and went from there.

My strategy, which I laid out a few days prior, was to do a mix of different stories. I had planned on sharing encouraging tips on how to become a #girlboss, a bit of my personal routine, and of course New York. The day was unfortunate in that it rained nonstop, but there was still some SoHo charm in there.

I’ve since learned that Instagram takeovers are a great way to collaborate with brands – especially if you’ve worked with them before. It’s also amazing to expose your own brand and allow their followers to get to know you. I was sickly nervous, but honestly loved the whole experience. It’s so important to be creative while still respecting the visual lines of the brand. In the end, they loved it and I couldn’t have been happier.

The next day, I got an email saying how much they loved my personal touches and great tips. And if my experience serves as any inspiration, let it be a reminder to NOT be afraid to approach brands for a takeover. BUT be sure you have a solid, fun, and creative strategy because you want to convince the brand to agree.

It definitely helps if you know the brand well enough to come up with a concept that meshes right in with their vision. Also, be bold enough to also propose something completely out of the box. This shows initiative and helps brands provide their audience with a fresh direction they may have never noticed themselves.

But more than that, it became a huge ordeal for me because it pushed me so far out of my comfort zone. I barely speak on my own Insta Stories, so it feels surreal for someone else to ask me to do it. There’s this sort of vulnerability, even if you’re just talking to the camera, because you know someone out there IS watching you. And in the end, you have to forget the camera and just have loads of fun!

Have you ever done an Instagram takeover? Share your experience!

X Eduarda

Follow me – Blog Instagram Pinterest

You Should Also Read:

Why Taking Courses Keeps You In The Game
5 Podcasts That Have Changed My Life
The Real Deal With Affiliate Links & Why Bloggers Should Use Them

The post An Overview on Doing an Instagram Takeover appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Have you guys heard of this new term ‘Millennial Pink’? 

It’s also known as ‘Tumblr Pink‘ and ‘Scandi Pink‘!

Technically the look I have here isn’t really that right hue, but I’m fond of the joke – and pink is really having another style moment.  When I was younger, I hated pink – especially when my hair was longer. It was due to my own ‘Barbie Paranoia’, fearing looking ridiculous, like a Barbie doll and too sugary sweet. Today I’m more secure in my sense of style – and I’m simply far too tall, scruffy and ungainly to be considered doll like.

Super loving this cute duffle, accompanied with a pom pom scarf for just the right amount of playfulness. I always use juxtaposition as a styling go-to – in this example, boyfriend jeans and sneakers up against the pretty pink of the coat and fluffy pom pom detail of the scarf. Ying yang. Today I’m representing French Connection, a brand I’ve been a fan of since my early modelling days. It’s a classic aesthetic with that added something extra, an unexpected or high fashion element.

Always EXTRA! Thanks so much French Connection for having me onboard to share this look – and more to come from this collaboration.

Pink Duffle Coat
Boyfriend Jeans
Pom Pom Scarf
Leather Sneaker
Hayley White T-Shirt

The post This Is Millennial Pink appeared first on Zanita Studio.