Warning: The Wrong Interview Outfit Could Cost You!

Sleepless nights, sweaty palms, stuttering introductions - no, I'm not referring to meeting your significant other's family for the first time. I'm referencing the multitude of feelings you're likely to experience before your first interview. While I can't give you a cure for your sweaty palms other than clinical strength antiperspirant, I can help calm your nerves about what to wear.

There are three degrees of professional dress: professional attire (formal), business attire (mid-range) and business casual. Depending on the interview type (e.g., finance position, customer service, etc.), you can decipher which look will work best. I recommend always being overdressed rather than underdressed - first impressions are everything!

3 Ways To Help Cure Skin Hyperpigmentation

The dreaded teen years of acne-covered skin are over but you still have nagging reminders of their once annoying existence - that my friends is called hyperpigmentation. I currently experience it but have found a few remedies to aid in their departure and wanted to share them with you!

Difference Between SEM and SEO

In today's marketing world so many acronyms are used and it can start to become very confusing. Below, are two used with an explanation of how they can play a critical role in your marketing initiatives.  Now, the next time you're in a meeting you can chime in and show your search marketing skills!

The first is Search Engine Optimization (SEO).  SEO is just that - optimizing your website so that it ranks higher in organic search results.  SEO are strategies and tactics used to ensure your site is accessible to a search engine like Google and improves the chance that your site will be found.  For example: say you own a dentist practice and you need to create a website.  Some of the most important things you can do are creating great content relevant to your business, using keywords and keyword phrases based off how people would search for a practice like yours, use social media links like Facebook and Twitter, and make the navigation on your site very simple.  When designing, approach it from the user's perspective so that their experience is easy and enjoyable.  For even more tips on how to incorporate SEO in your website design click here.

Mistrust. Now What?

Unfortunately, dishonesty and infidelity is a dilemma that dates back to biblical times.  So what do you do when the one you love has betrayed you?  Well, I've played that scenario out in my mind countless times, trying to prepare myself for what I believe to be inevitable, especially in today's society.  I'm sure that's not a healthy way of living or an advantageous thought process to have, but I feel in some ways it has prepared me for something that might ultimately materialize.

5 Essential Pieces Every Woman Should Own

Being a woman is no easy task.  We're bosses, decision makers, leaders, wives, girlfriends, and mothers.  All this while still managing to look good at all times - we really are amazing aren't we?!

When looking in your closet, I'm sure some of you are overwhelmed, but don't fret!  Here are five essential pieces every woman needs to make what you're pairing with your stress fairly simple!

How To Get Google Ad Grants for Nonprofits

Working for a nonprofit who specializes in appearance and interview preparation has afforded me a lot of learning experiences thus far, most importantly, Google Ad Grants. This is the nonprofit edition of AdWords, which is Google's online advertising tool.  Ad Grants empowers nonprofit organizations like mine, Bridge to Success, through $10,000 per month in FREE AdWords advertising to promote your mission on Google search pages.  The process was fairly simple and by clicking here, you'll see each step outlined.

3 of My Favorite Hair Styles for Summer 2014

I think now is the time most females try to decide how they're going to plan their spring/summer makeover.  I know for me, I'm always trying to decide if I should bring back my full bangs (I know, serious problems to ponder).  Below are some of my favorite hair trends for spring/summer 2014.  Hopefully one of them will spark your interest, but if not, who cares, rock what you have because I'm sure you already look marvelous ;)

Understanding the 5 Languages of Love

In the interest of wanting to vary my posts, and keep my blog fresh, oh, and the fact that it's my blog and I can do what I want (very freeing!), I've decided to post about the 5 Love Languages this week.

It's my belief that most people don't take the time to understand who they really are, or how they need to interact to feel loved by someone, or to love on someone - platonic or romantic.  In comes the 5 Languages of Love, which provides a deeper way to express love emotionally.  All of us have a primary love language and below is a short description of each one, in addition to a link that will take you to a test to find out your love language!

3 Ways to Do Your Own Alterations or Customize Your Clothes!

If you're anything like me, you'll purchase something and even if the zipper is broken, or if it's two sizes too big, you still get it and figure out a way to make it work!  If you're unaware of how easy it could be to fix little issues (I was one of those people), here are three ways to do your own alterations or customize your clothes! 

Problem 1: You purchase a skirt that is too long and you want to freshen it up by giving it a new look.

Do You Need Monday Motivation?

Good morning and happy Monday! This week, let's take the time to be thankful for everything we have in our lives. I know there are times when life gets the best of you, or you feel like everything becomes difficult or unbearable at once. The good news is, that is the EXACT time for exponential growth!

Never settle on others ideas or judgements about you. Even Walt Disney was fired from a newspaper for, "Lack of imagination and no good ideas." So, in short, never give up! And as Alfred A. Montapert said, "Expect problems and eat them for breakfast!"

(Hugs)

Want To Step Up Your Spring Fashion Trend Game? You Need To Read This First!

I have legitimate hopes that talking about warmer weather will magically bring it into existence, so, I have decided to write about this springs biggest fashion trends, and display two of my favorites.  

On the runways we saw everything from pastels in a rainbow of soft shades, to tuxedo stripped trousers.  Personally, I am a big fan of the boxy-cropped jackets (see below), and the shift blouse (see below that).   

Fall in Love with a Vintage Beaded Blouse

If you have a fun night planned, be sure to put on an item that is graceful, yet attention grabbing.  This beautifully designed vintage beaded blouse will definitely turn some heads! Pair this with high waisted leather shorts or dark skinnies for a feminine look that no one will soon forget!

Vintage Help

Good morning and happy Monday, all!  I recently came across this fantastic website called, Vintage Fashion Guide.  Now, I may be late on this one, but for all of you that haven’t discovered this hidden gem, I am providing the gateway now!

If you are new to the vintage fashion game like myself, this website will give you all the in’s and out’s to garment and item specifics. You can also join as a member of this respected group for very small annual fee, and you’ll receive all of the advertising and promotion that VFG does for the vintage community.  This site is beneficial to everyone - sellers and consumers of vintage alike!  Hope I just helped in the advancement of your knowledge game.  But if I didn't, oh well, I tried ;)

(Hugs)

Happy Valentine's Day!

On a day like today, we celebrate love.  The most important love to honor is the love you have for yourself.  Don’t lack confidence, don’t crave admiration, and don’t live on others reflections of you.  Once you’re acquainted with yourself, you’ll possess the love that’ll really address your needs.  Dare to be YOU! Happy Valentine’s Day!

Valentine's Day is Around the Corner

With the holiday of love being right around the corner, I found it necessary to list some outfit ideas that I love regardless of your relationship status.  Maybe some of these looks will inspire you!

If going out with girlfriends I've always been a fan of stylish versus sexy.  Most women dress so that other women can comment on what they have on – make sure this is still one of those nights!  Below is one of my favorite looks listed on seventeen.com.  Now, you don’t have to be 17 to wear this; I'm 31 and would definitely rock this dress and wedges!  This look is fashionable without looking like you’re trying too hard to garner someone's attention.

Motivational Fact

I read an interesting fact today: Coca-Cola only sold 25 bottles their first year but kept going.  Proving that you should never give up on your dreams.  I made my first sale on my Etsy store (Sagittarian Rising) this weekend!  I must say, it feels great!  This gives me the motivation to keep going and I hope you feel the same internal push this Monday, to find and follow your purpose! (Hugs)

Fridays Call for an Oversized Sweater

Happy Friday everyone! Still awaiting a break in this chilly weather? In the meantime, get this oversized sweater and prove that even your casual style is on point. Layer it up, or wear it on it’s own. Either way, you’re sure to have others gazing in delight!

You can find these items below:

Oversized Aztec Design Sweater: My Etsy Store – SagittarianRising

Distressed Jeans: Zara

Moccasin Boots: Minnetonka Moccasin

FUN SAGITTARIAN FACT: Sagittarians have a fear of weakness. Those around Sagittarians often feel hurt or puzzled by their occasional insensitivity or heartlessness. The truth is, Sagittarians are extremely uncomfortable with appearing weak, which compels them to adopt a defense mechanism to prevent them from that feeling.

*source: likes.com