The Importance of Self Love During Valentine’s Day

Once upon a time, I was 5 years old watching Cinderella and all of a sudden she finds her Prince Charming and they live happily ever after. I, then, dream of the same day myself, knowing my Prince Charming will come someday. It is 2004. Life is good. Little did I know, it would be 2022 and I am a 22 year old woman in the verge of kickstarting her career. Yet, she I have already started my career and am looking to progress even more in it and within my company. At the same time, I am also praying to find true love someday, with whomever God has set aside for me for when the timing is perfectly right. When Valentine’s Day comes around, being that it is the season of love, couples are ALWAYS highlighted. However, it is important to emphasize the love within yourself, too.

While it is human nature to want to be curious about and look around us for who may be our perfect match, we can also work to be our imperfect selves and love ourselves, too. Our future partners will be imperfect just like ourselves. Why not love our imperfectness just like we love and will love our future and/or current partners?!

Recently, I’ve become OBSESSED with a YouTuber named Mickey – a therapist who reacts to content from Christian fundamentalists and even Dr. Phil and many others, too. If you didn’t know, I am also a major fan of learning about Christian fundamentalism, BUT don’t worry I am not being a Christian fundamentalist (I am a practicing Christian, though) over here as I simply find the subject fascinating yet insane. Mickey provides a real life look into the realities of self love and having a peace with one’s self, too. Everyone’s self love journey is different, BUT it is key to remember that it is a very very very important one. Having peace with one’s self allows each and every single one of us to love ourselves as we do others.

I find it REALLY important to be able to love ourselves and work on loving ourselves. I am personally always working on my self love journey and firmly believe that one’s self love journey is ever-evolving. There are some times where we feel at peace with ourselves and others where we don’t and that is OKAY. I always find it important to love others for who they are, even though we find it SO hard to love ourselves within that mix at times, especially when others may make us feel less than our true potential. BUT, through it all and all of the ups and downs in this so-called thing known as life, we always have ourselves.

It’s important to remember that we’re each perfectly flawed and perfectly imperfect. As we love each and every single one of our friends and family members, remember to love yourself this Valentine’s Day – imperfect and perfectly flawed.

XOXO – Katie <3

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My 2022 Blogger Reader Survey Results & Goals

New year, new survey! Every year, I do a Blogger Reader Survey and share the results with y’all (check out last week’s reader survey results here!). This is my second year hosting a reader survey, along with a $25 Target Gift Card Giveaway (winner to be announced later this week!). As someone who works in data analytics within her full time job, I definitely see the importance on a daily basis with my work and any endeavor that I or someone else may pursue. Like last year, I plan to publicly share my results with y’all along with some of my 2022 blogger goals!

Survey Results

Before digging into my survey results, it’s important to note that this survey includes my followers on social media, readers of the blog, and those who may do both. This survey was also voluntary and all responses are anonymous upon submission and will remain anonymous.

Demographics:

90.6% of my readers are women and 9.4% of my readers are men. The majority of my readers (93%) are under the age of 35. Most of my readers live in the United States within the regions of the South, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest, which I guess most Lilly Pulitzer and/or Preppy Fashion Lovers live – LOL! My respondents came from all cities across these 3 main regions, with the most popular being within the Washington, DC metropolitan area, the Chicago metropolitan area, and the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Last year, most of my readers were from the South, so I’m excited to see my following expand up North and a bit West!

Unlike last year, this year’s survey included A TON of influencers from a variety of niches, but there were no repeats of influencers shared amongst different responses. Most of my readers follow fellow Preppy Fashion influencers including my friend Julie of @julies_colorful_life, Michelle of @michelles_lilly and the founder of Friends that Lilly, and Katie of @hellokatiegirlblog. Though not mentioned as an influencer per-say, many of my responders do not follow any other influencers besides my page or they are following my page along with influencers in other niches, including makeup artist Jeffree Star, travel couple Kara and Nate, and LGBTQ+ couple Allie and Sam. Overall, this insight was super neat to me, as I was anticipating a lot of similar responses when it came to influencers, BUT y’all always open my eyes to some new and exciting pages that I didn’t previously know about to follow.

Where They Follow Along & Posts Preferences:

Most of y’all follow along on either Instagram (71.9%) or Facebook (50%) or both. 93.8% of y’all have read a blog post on the site, whether or not your primary following of me on my platforms is on social media. At the same time, I was VERY excited to see that (25%) of y’all follow my site through subscribing to it via my site. To me, out of all of my site reach on social media, it’s so great to see that 1/4 of my reach comes from directly through my site alone. That being said, I am LOVING seeing my blog posts’ readership grow over this past year!

As we all know, Instagram Reels and Tok Tok’s have taken off like never before. Although Reels and Tok Tok’s are essentially the new black, only 43.8% of y’all said that they are your favorite type of posts. Meanwhile, the classic photos only Instagram and/or Facebook posts were everyone’s favorite – ranking out the reigns at 90.6%. At the same time, 46.9% of y’all love following along with my stories on Instagram and/or Facebook. And, lastly, my ShopLTK posts on the ShopLTK app are loved by 9.4% of y’all! Although I don’t post on the ShopLTK platform as consistently as I could, I am still super happy that my shopping looks and style inspiration posts there are loved by some of y’all!

Blog & Social Media Content:

In terms of blog and social media content, y’all appeared to like a variety of content that makes me me. More specifically, y’all’s favorite posts on the blog appear to be personal experiences of all kinds, whether it be my weekly menus, Relationship Sunday’s, or something else. As for social media, y’all LOVED seeing all of my outfits and watching me snap photos of different pieces from my closet – SAME! The following topics are what came up the most amongst y’all’s responses:

  • Travel
  • Personal Experiences
  • Tips
  • Outfits (especially outfit of the day)
  • Preppy Fashion
  • Home Decor
  • Financial Tips
  • Postgraduate Life
  • Affordable Fashion
  • Bargain hunting (e.g. The Dollar Tree, Great Deals, & Thrifting)
  • Shopping Guides
  • Food/Cooking (especially my Weekly Menu Round-Up’s)
  • Mental Health Awareness
  • Makeup/Beauty Products

Overall, y’all LOVED topics that involved fashion – more specifically outfits of the day and preppy fashion -, finding a great deal especially at The Dollar Tree and thrifting amongst many other places, home decor, and affordable AND healthy meals. Y’all also love finding great deals at places such as thrift stores, Marshall’s, Home Goods, TJ Maxx, Ross, and The Dollar Tree. While, at the same time, enjoy shopping at Target, Amazon, Walmart, Lilly Pulitzer, Belk, and Kohl’s. Y’all are also major fans of Kate Spade! Overall, I definitely found that y’all’s preferences to shop aligned with your content desires – preppy and/or affordable fashion.

I always like to ask about y’all’s favorite small businesses as I LOVE finding new small business owners to support! I was so so so happy to see my friend Holly of Glitter & Daisies (check out her interview on the blog here!) show up as one of y’all’s favorites. Other favorites of y’all include: Evelyn Henson, Mell’s Trinkets, The Happy Headband Co, Knotties, thrift stores local to y’all’s own areas, and many more. Above all else, there were SO many small businesses that I saw that I had yet to learn of which for me means EXCITEMENT!

Now, for my favorite part, y’all aka my readers ALWAYS leave some super sweet comments. My favorites are shared below!

  • Thank you for being my friend <3
  • Your style, vibes, and the variety of content you share! I also love how genuine you are!
  • I enjoy everything about it! I just discovered this business, and I can’t wait to learn more and follow along!
  • I want to sign up for your newsletter!!! I enjoy your consistency and kind heart
  • Love your bright Sunny vibes and style and that you also share great advice & tips!
  • Pics of your outfits are fun! #Katie’s Confetti Adventure
  • You have a beautiful feed. Nice to see you go places to visit for others to see
  • I love your closet
  • I used to love reading your college updates, now love watching you enjoy life as a new grad in DC!!

2022 Blogger Goals

  • Explore the DMV more & share local favorites with y’all – There is SO much to see right here in the DMV aka the Washington, DC-Maryland-Virginia tristate area. I’ve been following A LOT of other fellow DMV area bloggers and I get SO much inspiration simply from looking at their feeds and regular posts on my own feed. So, I want to get out there and explore my own hometown this year!
  • Network with other influencers – This year WILL be the year that I meet fellow influencers in real life! These past 2 years have been great blogging years for me, but I would love to meet others who also blog and/or are influencers. Luckily, I think/hope that the pandemic will die down this year a bit more, so I am hoping that I can meet others and have MANY opportunities to do so, whether it be at events such as Friends That Lilly, The Blogger Union, or simply made independently of other events.
  • Share MORE bargains – Going along with y’all’s responses in my survey, I definitely want to share with y’all more bargains, whether it be from the thrift store, Marshall’s/TJ Maxx/Home Goods/Ross, The Dollar Tree, a grand markdown, or somewhere else. Bargains are ALWAYS fun and they consistently get me going and excited, so I am excited to share them with y’all too!

If you made it to the bottom of this post, THANK YOU for reading!! Here’s to a great 2022!

XOXO – Katie <3

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2 Years of The Pink Chickadee!

2 years a blogger! It’s oh so crazy how time flies since starting a blog. It, indeed, feels like yesterday when I was sitting in my apartment with all of my friends waiting for my site’s first-ever blog post (check that out here!) to launch. I had a launch party for The Pink Chickadee when it launched in my sweet college apartment right before the pandemic hit (read more about that here!) with some of my many college friends. Some of my best memories have come from creating my sweet spot here on the Internet and I’m ALWAYS grateful that I am able to share my story with y’all here.

When starting my platform, I knew that I wanted to start a blog months before in the Fall of 2019. It was the Fall 2019 semester aka my Junior year of college. Being in North Carolina then, so many people are in committed relationships by the time they reach their Junior year of college or even in their Senior year of college. Needless to say, many many people were in relationships then that are some of my good friends, classmates, and others within my college community and North Carolina area. I, then, became pretty discouraged by it all, as a single woman in what I felt was a couple’s world. It was then that I had actually realized that I wanted something for me and only me. And, that is how The Pink Chickadee was born.

Since starting The Pink Chickadee, I have made countless connections and even friends with several fellow influencers, small business owners, and Lilly Pulitzer lovers alike. I have been able to work with brands, including Panera Bread, Peet’s Coffee, Ouges, and Glitter and Daisies. I was accepted to become a Shop LTK influencer and have since enjoyed sharing all of my favorite finds on that fun platform, too. I have seriously found such an incredible community within the blogging world! At the same time, I have made the big move from Raleigh, North Carolina to the nation’s capital of Washington, DC and currently reside in the Virginia suburbs. I graduated from college with a Bachelor’s degree and a triple minor with Honors. I have started a brand-new full-time job at a great company in the Washington, DC area that I have been at for 6 months. I have adopted a Shepherd-Chihuahua mix – a rescue pup- out of ALL the breeds named Rosie. And, through it all, I have shopped WAYYYY too many Lilly Pulitzer sales, drank a TON of coffee, and enjoyed many nights getting to create the amazing community on my corner of the internet. That all being said, I am OH SO grateful to be able to write here and share my story with y’all here at The Pink Chickadee!

From 2 years and onwards, I look forward to many more years here at The Pink Chickadee!!

XOXO – Katie <3

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My 2022 Goals!

For me, a new year means new goals! At the end of every year, I look back at what I didn’t like that I consistently did and strive to make changes accordingly. I see life as a cycle of continuous improvement and setting goals each new year does exactly that for me! Below, I have listed out some of my major goals for 2022.

  • Grow in my Christian faith – In the new year, I am looking to get back into a groove of attending church more often. In high school, I went to church 2-3 times a week for different activities including Sunday church and small groups throughout the week. Those times at my church were super special for me, too. I missed those days looking back and have even signed up for a church course with a retreat that I cannot wait for!
  • Network with other bloggers and meet some IRL – 2022 is THE year that I will be meeting some other fellow bloggers in-person. I have yet to meet some of the many amazing fellow influencer/blogger friends that I have established here on this platform. So, I NEED to make it happen this year, as I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to not only network with and meet other bloggers that I have yet to connect with, but also meet many of the lovely folks that I have already connected with!
  • Show off more bargains – I am a SUCKER for a bargain, BUT who isn’t?! More recently, I have become more interested in thrifting, shopping at The Dollar Tree, and simply finding a great deal. Since I am a sucker for a good bargain like all of y’all, I am so excited to share more of my bargains with y’all and want to be more consistent with sharing them on my platform, too!
  • Attend a professional conference – So, I attended a conference with my Mom in Bulgaria when I graduated from high school. Although I was NOWHERE near looking for a job when I graduated from high school, it was still such a meaningful experience of mine that indeed opened my mind up to the many many many benefits of attending a conference. That being said, I would love to attend a professional conference related to my full-time job this year!
  • Join an outside of work committee – If you knew me in college, then you know that I was the QUEEN of overcommitment. In fact, I was personally victimized by overcommitment – LOLLL! Since taking my first 6 months in my new job to simply develop myself within my company and in my new role, I am looking towards excitedly joining a brand-new committee of some sorts that is NOT work related. Something that is a great experience for me that I could use similar skills within my job, but not necessarily within my job is ideal. My overcommitment is something that I pride myself on throughout my college years and hope to get involved somehow beyond my professional world in this new year.
  • Shoot MORE items from within my closet – So, I guess I am a real life Carrie Bradshaw when it comes to my closet??? I LOVE my closet and it is huge and it is indeed my happy place. Believe it or not, there are still SO MANY items within my closet that I have yet to share with y’all that I WANT to share with y’all. In 2022, I would love to focus on sharing some of those many many many pieces with y’all and more!
  • Put myself out there more in my new city – Life is ALL about constantly putting yourself out there! What can I say?! Due to COVID-19 with the current ongoing Omicron variant and adjusting to my new 9-5 job, I have yet to establish myself in my new city. There is so much I can do here in Washington, DC that I want to do. Putting myself out there especially when it may feel like a drag will only put me so much further out there to shine!
  • Reorganize again and again and AGAIN – My newest favorite pastime has become reorganizing. I guess you can say that I am always keeping people on their toes! I have gone to both The Dollar Tree and Target multiple times and have redone my pantry a bit and am in the process or re-dolling up my office, too. The results of both of those projects will be shared here on the blog. At the same time, I am hoping to deck out my dining room, bar cart, and bathroom plus my closets. ALL of which I plan to share here, too!
  • Explore the DMV more – There is a lot to say about simply exploring your own backyard! There is SO much to do around the DMV aka the Washington, DC-Maryland-Virginia tristate around that I am excited to do this year. I spent a lot of 2021 especially the end of 2021 traveling that I missed out a bit on experiencing some magic within my own backyard. As the sun sets later and later, I am itching to get out more especially after work.
  • Visit more Virginia vineyards – This year, I was gifted a 2022 Virginia Wine Pass. A Virginia Wine Pass essentially gives you and a guest discounts on goodies at each participating vineyard (varies by vineyard). There are SO many vineyards in the beautiful state of Virginia that it’s not even funny! I cannot wait to explore SO many of them, too.
  • Find a way to professionally grow – As a new, starting out employee, I am definitely looking for ways to professionally develop myself and my portfolio. Whether it be a certification, course, or simply attending an event (or two), I really want to strive to find a way to allow my resume to expand in my current role this year.

Now, onto achieving my 2022 goals! But, I am wondering, what are some of your goals?!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Relationship Sunday’s – Being Single & Content

There comes a time when a person becomes content with being single. But, that time can take quite a while for many to find a point of contention with being single. Let alone, being single in a couple’s world is a tough pill to swallow for anybody. Trust me, it is HARD to be single in a couple’s world AND happy with your relationship status (or lack thereof). Though it may be tough, I find being happy while single as something that is essential for experiencing a happy relationship and eventually true love.

For myself, I wasn’t always happy while being single. Throughout my college years in North Carolina, I witnessed many of my classmates dating others and longed for that relationship of my own. There were many nights where I felt upset as a single woman and really wanted that commitment with another person. In December 2020 out of ALL of the times that one could enter a relationship, I entered a relationship. I wholeheartedly committed myself to that person and was content with the security that it brought me. On the contrary, while in this relationship, I found myself longing for my single days yet again. As someone who was looking for jobs as a soon to be postgraduate, I missed my days of being able to not worry about another person when searching for a job and where it could be located. My then-partner wanted me to stay in the state of North Carolina, despite my connections in all other states but North Carolina. My job application process during that time was miserable. During that same time, my partner did not commit to me in the way that I had hoped they would. I felt stressed trying to reach them, as they refused to reciprocate that attention to our relationship that I felt I gave. Needless to say, right after Valentine’s Day 2021, I broke off the relationship and had never felt happier to call myself a single woman. In fact, the days after my breakup were some of the most liberating days of my life.

I share this story of mine with y’all today to share how I became content with being a single woman – by being a woman in a relationship that wasn’t true to myself or my own desires. Indeed, this relationship wasn’t the right relationship for me. As a single woman, I have been able to make my own decision to move to the Washington, DC area which I have NO regrets doing. I don’t have to sit by the phone hoping that my partner calls back when they don’t feel like it: I can have my own nights to myself and myself ONLY. I can be myself and I can be happy with who I am. I can live my life in the way that I want to without any worry for anybody else, but ME.

While in college, although I was single for most of my years there, I am glad that I was. I was able to study abroad in Italy, England, and Belize. I travelled on weekend trips to Charleston, Washington, DC, Savannah, and Ocean Isle. I volunteered and served in several student leadership positions. Needless to say, I made the best of my college experience and took in every moment and enjoyed every experience. If I was in a relationship for most of my college years, then I don’t know if I would have been able to do all that I did and enjoy it all as much as I could have.

Above all else, remember to count your blessings – being single and all! One day, you will be glad you enjoyed your single years. In fact, would you want to be in a relationship and sad that you weren’t content before entering your relationship? I surely wouldn’t and I hope you wouldn’t either!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Why I Started Shopping at The Dollar Tree + Items I Primarily Buy From There

I have always been a sucker for a great bargain! When I was in high school, I used to LOVE shopping at the thrift store and getting the best deals on ALLL name brand items. I did the same for sale items in stores, too, including Kohl’s, Marley Lilly, Kate Spade, and even scored a pair of Hunter Boots for under $120 my Junior year of high school on Amazon during a Black Friday sale. Above all else, I LOVE a good deal and The Dollar Tree is NO exception to getting a great deal!

Surprisingly enough, when I was in high school, I was never really shopped at The Dollar Tree, however, that has changed since and so has what I shop for and where, too! I started shopping at The Dollar Tree during my Senior year of college which for me was about 8 months ago – HAHA! – when my friends Kaylee and Julia gifted me adorable Christmas gifts – wine glasses – which to my surprise were from The Dollar Tree. Around the same time, a YouTube video popped up from Kathryn at Do It On a Dime who spills the tea on ALL of The Dollar Tree goodies to pick up. I started watching some of her many many videos and needless to say, I became obsessed with her channel and extremely eager to make a shopping trip to The Dollar Tree.

When learning more and more about the offerings of The Dollar Tree, from wine glasses to cleaning supplies to holiday decorations and even pouches, I began to start thinking of SO many ideas for my apartment. Around this time, I was also getting ready to move into my apartment in the Washington, DC area since I was soon graduating from college in North Carolina and making my big move up North. I had a job lined up with great pay, but I was also not starting it until the end of July 2021, so I had over 2 months before I started working that I would be decking out and setting up my apartment before starting to work. That being said, The Dollar Tree was a great and affordable option to find apartment essentials of ALL kinds that got me EXCITED. Not only was I finding a great deal on even name brand items, but I was also buying practical items.

Since my The Dollar Tree obsession has started and blossomed, there are so many items that I primarily pick up regularly from there. In fact, I go to The Dollar Tree for certain items before I even check out other stores like Home Goods, Target, and Walmart. The other week, I went on a not so little shopping spree to The Dollar Tree and the cashier and I were discussing how we both believe that everyone should “come here [The Dollar Tree] first,” as it “may not have everything you need, but it will have quite a lot.” The cashier has seen people of all ages shop at her storefront – college students, high school students, parents, Senior citizens, and people starting out are all amongst the crowd of shoppers.

Items I Primarily Shop for at The Dollar Tree:

  • Holiday decorations for EVERY holiday (thanks Kaylee for this one!!)
  • Organizational items (bins, baskets, buckets, etc.)
  • Tea towels
  • Party supplies and decorations
  • Balloons
  • Wrapping paper and other gift wrap
  • Tumblers and mugs
  • Pouches
  • Cards
  • Mail packaging items
  • Banners
  • Wine glasses and champagne flutes
  • Travel size toiletries
  • Tissues
  • Sponges
  • Hand Soap
  • Craft supplies

Here’s to many more Dollar Tree shopping trips in your future!

XOXO – Katie <3

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My Highlights of 2021!

This is my first full year as a blogger and it has brought about a whirlwind of emotions – both good and bad. Through it all though, I have had an extraordinary community here at The Pink Chickadee that has only flourished in this year. Earlier this week, I shared my Blogging Highlights of 2021 and a favorite outfit from each month (you can read more on that here); however, today’s blog post will solely focus on a peek into my personal life aka The Life of Katie!!

Winter 2021 (January-March):

In Winter 2021, I kicked off my new year in what I thought would have been the beginning of forever for me – I was dating somebody that I envisioned spending the rest of my life with. I came out as apart of the LGBTQ+ community here on my blogging platform, even though many of my friends knew about my sexuality before in fact years before I shared it publicly. I began to make many more connections thanks to my coming out here on this platform and am oh so grateful to have witnessed nothing but support from it all! Though I had high aspirations for my then-partner, I started to realize many red flags when dating them that for my own sanity I ended up breaking off the relationship in February. I became a victim of a mentally abusive and exhausting relationship, which I realized after breaking it off after a few months of dating them and thank goodness I did! While dating this ex of mine, I wished to be single more times than I did enjoying dating them. So, when the break up came about, I truly felt nothing but liberated.

Right after my break up, I truly began to change up my search for a job in my dream post-graduation life city: Washington, DC. My ex insisted that I live in North Carolina, in order to be close to them, where I barely had any luck finding a job in. On the flip side, I was starting to get some luck with some of my many connections in the Washington, DC area. My networking search continued to grow most specifically in the Washington, DC area. I was so excited that I ended up visiting the area where my Mom and Papa live for Spring Break. With a friend of mine, we stayed at my Papa’s house where I got to meet his dog Rosie who is now proudly mine too for the very first time. And, I went ALL around the city, even during the COVID-19 pandemic and pre-vaccination era, including: The National Mall, Nationals Park, the Jefferson Memorial, Clifton in the Virginia countryside, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, and National Harbor in Maryland. Needless to say, it was an amazing time and I, then, decided to solely continue to search for a job in only the Washington, DC area via an announcement on the blog! The best part?! I was SINGLE and more than ready to start out on my own.

Spring 2021 (March-May):

Since announcing my move to the Washington, DC area, things started to only look up from there. My Papa has a basement that doubles as an apartment, which he graciously was excited to allow me to move into at a much cheaper than Washington, DC area rent cost. So, I had a place to live. I started to network even more which landed me an incredible job that I am still at today in the Northern Virginia area. So, I had a job. And, Papa had Rosie – a Shepherd Chihuahua mix from Puerto Rico who has since become my dog, too, and has made me a Dog Mom. So, I had a dog. All of this post graduation life excitement was in the city of my dreams. Needless to say, my life was looking pretty great when it came to my life after college!

During the remainder of my Spring 2021 semester, I had classes all online except for one – Public Speaking. Public Speaking was all about female empowerment and was indeed the best class to wrap up experiencing the in-person aspect of classes. I see that class as God’s way of giving me closure to my academic career for the time being. At first, I was super upset that I had an in-person class, but looking back, it was a great gift to have! At the same time, my college opened up the opportunity for many more in-person events. We had a Senior class parade, Alumnae Induction Ceremony, Graduation Ceremonies for the Class of 2020 (which I volunteered as a Marshall for), and a Freshmen class dinner which I also volunteered for. Most importantly, I got to help plan an in-person event called Class Day with my friends Maggie and Miranda (read more about that here!) and had an in-person graduation ceremony in the courtyard of my beautiful campus! I celebrated my achievements by being awarded 4 awards across my campus by my professors, classmates, and staff. Meanwhile, I got to celebrate my 22nd Birthday in-person, my friend Chandler’s 21st Birthday in-person, go to Ocean Isle, North Carolina with friends as a pre-graduation trip (read about here), take graduation photos with my friends Chandler, Addy, Miranda, Hannah, and Sophie (see those here – shoutout to Hannah and Quinn for the amazing photos!), celebrate my graduation with a Grad Party courtesy of my mother, and many dinners and lunches and brunches in between! It was a hectic yet super special time.

Since graduating, I immediately packed my bags into a huge U-Haul and Papa’s truck and made it with Rosie who is by the way NOT a lap dog on my lap to Washington, DC. Papa and I enjoyed some pizza that night and began to unpack the next day. The rest of my month of May consisted of me unpacking and getting settled into my brand-new home.

Summer 2021 (June-August):

My Summer 2021 was kind of a bummer. I didn’t have any trips except for a few weekend trips away and it was starting to hit me that I was not living with all of my friends just a few doors down. It sucked for a while, but I managed. Fortunately enough, my best friends Hannah and Alanna came for the weekend of July 4th and my best friends Caroline and Cassie came at the end of August. It was so much fun to be able to visit my new town with some of my best friends. At the same time, I also took several day trips in my new town – the Washington National Cathedral, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Georgetown, the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, the National Mall, the Smithsonian American Museum of History, and Nationals Park. I was also able to explore much of my new state – Virginia – including: Burke Lake Park, Vienna, Old Town Alexandria, Mason Neck State Park, Occoquan, and Mosaic, Clifton. I also spent A LOT of time decorating my new apartment with pieces that I have had for years and some newer pieces (see my bedroom, pantry, office, patio, and kitchen respectively). I have explored my own home decor style and learned that I am most definitely a bright Palm Beach Grand Millennial who happens to not live in Palm Beach – haha!

Summer 2021 also marked the start of my career, with my first-ever salaried job starting in the end of July. While an intimidating at first glance, working full time has been super empowering and rewarding at the same time. I have begun to get involved and network within my own company and continue to do so – something that everyone should do!

Fall 2021-Christmas 2021 (September-December):

As my work progressed, I began to honestly feel a bit depressed during the Fall months. I was loosing my college experience, as I watched those in my network go back for their highly-anticipated Fall 2021 semester, despite the fact that I had already graduated. I had and still have yet to get my bearings in my new hometown: I am still in the process of making new friends and establishing new connections. There is so much excitement, but there is also so much nerves and sadness too. I spent a lot of time alone this Fall 2021 season, simply processing it all and hoping to find a way to feel connected. I also work primarily remote and will continue to at my company moving forward. It hasn’t been easy, but I hope to feel connected with others in my hometown and in my workplace very soon.

Meanwhile, my life looked anything but drab on the outside! I traveled ALL over the place – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Skyline Drive at Shenandoah National Park, Virginia; Pennington, New Jersey; Haddonfield, New Jersey; Raleigh, North Carolina for a Meredith College Reunion and a wedding as well as the NC State Fair; Bethany Beach, Delaware; and Charlottesville, Virginia. I had experienced many blessings with many friends and family and a great holiday season, too! My good friend Shivani moved to the Washington, DC area too and it was great to be able to have someone to do some fun things in this area with as well – we went to Georgetown and Ballston and she even fit right into our family at Thanksgiving Dinner. My Dad also spent some time with me at my apartment in November, which was such a blessing, too! Despite some of the post-graduation hardships, I also feel like there were many many many blessings within the silver linings.

Highlights!

My last first day of school!
Celebrating my 22nd Birthday with Caroline, Claire, Hannah, Miranda, and Chandler
Announcing my Washington, DC move!
Graduation photos with Sophie – champagne and all!
My pre-graduation trip to Ocean Isle, North Carolina
Hosting my Housewarming Party and getting to see my good friend Sarah
My Graduation Party with Julia, Kaylee, Alanna, Hannah, Sophie, and Macy
Seeing where the Constitution was signed on Constitution Day in Independence Hall in Philadelphia with my Pumpkin Spice Latte
Uncle Ed’s Ice Cream with Chris, Andrew, Joe, and Tim in Pennington, New Jersey
One of my favorite photoshoots with my Big Sis Macy
My bizarre lighthouse experience at Fenwick Island Lighthouse in Delaware
Class Day was a success after planning it for 6 weeks and getting to have it in-person!!
Photoshoot and picnic fun with Hannah and Alanna in Dorothea Dix Park in Raleigh
My Fourth of July visitors – Alanna and Hannah
Visiting Nall’s Produce for all of my Fall Instagramming needs
Graduation photos with Miranda and Chandler
The Senior Parade at Meredith College
My first-ever visit to the brand-new Meredith Lake at Meredith College
Meredith College Reunion Weekend with Alanna, Kaylee, Julia, and Chandler
My solo trip to the Washington National Cathedral
Going to a wine tasting with Amanda in Haddon Heights, New Jersey
My first-ever Nationals game with my best friend Wyatt
When Cassie & Caroline came to town and made a pit stop at the White House!
Visiting my new favorite winery – Paradise Springs Winery in Clifton, Virginia
Graduating and becoming hotter by one degree – my parents luckily were able to watch me walk across that stage!
Picnic with my good friends Violet and Haley
Day trip to Skyline Drive at Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Papa’s family reunion 2021 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania
Visiting my Lil Sis Lelia and my Grand Lil Madelyne at Meredith College
Visiting Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia with Papa
Going back to the NC State Fair with Alanna, Hannah, and Bryn
Meeting up with Shivani in Georgetown
Visiting Chris in Titusville, New Jersey
The Alumnae Induction Ceremony at Meredith College with Chandler – our first in-person event since COVID-19!
Dinner at Ballston with Shivani
Visiting my best friend Amanda (Christmas Village in Philadelphia)
Visiting the National Christmas Tree
Christmas 2021

If you’re oh so curious about what I was up to in 2020 (surprisingly, it was a pretty good year for me!) you can read more about that in My Highlights of 2020 blog post (linked here).

XOXO – Katie <3

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Interview with Holly of Glitter & Daisies

Ever since I started my platform here at The Pink Chickadee, I have LOVED getting to interview several women and men, all of which I have known personally and mostly from my college. I am so excited to expand my interviews beyond my little friend and college bubble in this world. Today, I am interviewing the lovely and ultra-talented friend of mine – Holly! Holly runs a Disney small business known as Glitter & Daisies (linked here) you can also follow Holly @glitteranddaisiescastle on Instagram, where she designs the most beautiful Disney ears and gives some of the proceeds to the American Cancer Society (only the BEST way to spread some Disney cheer!!!). You can also use my code PINK10 to get 10% off your purchase on anything on her site. Now, let’s learn more about the amazing Holly!!

Tell me a bit about yourself!

I’m Holly, I love all things pink, glitter and floral. My favorite animal is a corgi. I am a huge romantic comedy movie fan. My favorite TV show is Parks and Recreation. I’m 27 and still figuring out this adult thing. I love to craft and spend time with friends and family. 🙂

When did your Disney obsession begin?

My Disney obsession started as long as I have existed honestly. A lot of my childhood was spent watching Disney animated movies and watching Disney channel with my dad. I remember  when Lizzie McGuire was airing live on TV. My dad and I used to watch the show together sitting in his favorite recliner chair. My bedroom was Little Mermaid themed growing up, I had the bedding set and a rug, I felt like the coolest kid. I remember getting so excited for all the new DCOM’s (Disney Channel Original Movies) to air. As I got older I still felt connected to Disney and  was fortunate in high school to star in my high school’s musicals of Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast. When I went to graduate school to pursue my master’s degree I made a really good friend who also loved Disney! During the pandemic I was able to have more time at home in the evenings since I was no longer commuting to the office and was able to really dive deep into Disney movies I hadn’t seen in a really long time.

Who is your favorite Disney Princess and/or Disney character?

My very first favorite Disney princess was Ariel. The Little Mermaid was my absolute favorite when I was growing up. When I was in high school the movie Tangled came out and I instantly fell in love with Rapunzel’s personality and her independence. So Ariel and Rapunzel both have a special place in my heart!

Tell me a bit about Glitter & Daisies?!

Glitter and Daisies started out as a fashion instagram during my first semester of graduate school. I was in a new city and didn’t know anyone, so I wanted to explore my passion for fashion and started an instagram page! I still utilize my fashion instagram but have shifted my focus more now on the Glitter and Daisies brand within the Disney community. 

So, what made you want to start Glitter & Daisies?

I have honestly always wanted to start a business. During the pandemic I needed a creative outlet and I started making Disney ears. At first it was just a fun little project but then I fell in love with the idea of sharing my ear designs with others and seeing them worn in the parks. So I pulled together my resources and started my business!

Tell me a bit about some of the designs that you’ve made. What’s been your favorite of the bunch to design?

I feel like every time I make a new design it becomes my favorite! At this point in time my favorite is a pair I called Rapunzel’s Glow. They really look like pure joy and sunshine to me. I have a pair that was my original favorite and part of my original line up from when I launched my shop celebrating the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World. That pair is so special to me. I included glittery depictions of Cinderella Castle, little pom poms on the trim and this beautiful blue and purple iridescent fabric. 

I know you have donated some of your profits to the American Cancer Society. I think that is inspiring! What inspired you to do just that?

I have always really appreciated when brands or companies take the time to honor important causes. I know as a consumer that’s something that I really value when I can shop for things I love and support a good cause in the process. I already had this pink ear design called Aurora’s Crown and October is such an important month because it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The pieces really just fell into place and the idea clicked! I researched organizations that had a positive reputation in where their funds go to and how they help breast cancer patients and survivors. Obviously I am not a huge corporation, but if I can use my shop to help support such an important cause then I want to do what I can.

What were some of the first steps you took to make your dreams of opening Glitter & Daisies a reality?

I had to do a lot of research into how to start a business. My background is in mental health counseling, so I have zero experience when it comes to actually making a business come to life. I am fortunate that a really good friend of mine from college is a CPA so one night I had a long talk with her about steps I needed to take to make it official and obtaining my business license. If anyone out there is considering starting a business, google is your friend. There are so many amazing step by step guides to help you with filing for your business license and knowing how to make a website.

Running a small business isn’t easy for anybody. I know you made a super fun Instagram Reels sharing the many roles that you take on for Glitter & Daisies. Can you share a bit about what some of those are for those that may not know what a small business may entail?

When you run a small business, especially at first, you may not really have a staff. In my case, I was starting this business from my apartment. I do almost everything in the business myself. I make the ears, buy the inventory, ship the orders, manage the website, do the social media marketing. It can be a lot, but I have been able to learn so much and really appreciate the work it takes to have a business. My boyfriend helped me make my website and he designed my logo because he has graphic design skills. I am definitely happy to have support!

We all know that commitment is key when running a small business or any side hustle. How do you stay motivated to keep hustlin’ even when you feel as if you need a break?

One thing I have learned is it’s okay to take a break. Some days you are just not in the right headspace to go film videos or take photos and that is okay! Burnout is a very real thing and it can strike at any time. On days where I maybe feel less motivated, I try not to overload myself. On a day to day basis I write down what I call my daily intentions. It’s a to do list, but I call them intentions because these are things I want to view as intentional and meaningful to me. I try to have at least 5 things on a daily list. Some days that includes working on orders, other days it is filming videos for Instagram and Tiktok. On days where it is more of a struggle I get done what I am able to, but I give myself the grace to allow some things to remain on the list for tomorrow. I also remind myself that I started this business as a fun creative outlet. I love to look at pictures and videos I receive from customers because it reframes my focus and brings me so much joy.

Also, on the note of Instagram Reels and Tik Tok, you create some of the most fun content when it comes to those two things! What is some advice that you have for others who are struggling with creating Reels and Tik Tok’s?

Oh I love this question! At first I was really hesitant with reels and Tiktok. But my best advice is to lean into it and allow yourself to have fun! Some of my favorite videos and most popular ones on my pages are ones where I let loose and let my personality show. I am generally a really happy person who loves to make people laugh and if I can bring that to a video, even better! Start small, don’t feel like you have to go out and film 15 videos tomorrow. Try just working on a small video and brainstorming ideas that sound fun to you. You absolutely do not have to do dancing videos! I know some people are super intimidated by them, and even I am at times. I use the app InShot to edit all my videos, it is such a helpful tool and it’s free!

What has been your favorite Instagram Reels/Tik Tok that you have made?

I really love the styling my ears series I have done. It combines two of my passions, Disney and fashion! It also reminds me of where I started since my brand began by starting a fashion blog. I also really loved the one I did based off the Full House theme song where you show the different roles in your business.

What is one thing that you didn’t expect to learn from running Glitter & Daisies?

Hmmm, honestly learning TikTok! I didn’t utilize Tiktok at all until I started this business. So I have had to learn how to use it, market within it and growing an audience there, which is pretty different from Instagram. Social media marketing in general can be tough to navigate but is such a necessary means of growing your brand, so I have been learning and growing my way of reaching people.

Many people dream of starting their own side hustle, including a small business. Today’s Instagram Algorithm makes it rough for new small businesses to garner visibility. What has helped you to stay afloat and still get some great visibility for Glitter & Daisies?

Oh the algorithm…what a time I have had fooling with it. Instagram is tough and it can be really defeating at times if I’m being honest. That’s just the nature of the algorithm. Making more video content has been helpful as well as focusing on building connections with other Disney creators. I have made some really sweet friends through Instagram and when you make those connections, those people will show up for you. I have recently been focusing more on audience engagement through stories as well because that’s a space where people can get to know you on a more personal level. Sharing small bits of your daily life (and only as much as you feel comfortable sharing) can help them to see the person behind the brand and the more raw moments of your life. Posting questions boxes, polls, and asking them questions helps them to feel important too!

I know you’ve started supporting others within your Disney niche on social media via engagement, whether it be influencers or other fellow small business owners. How has that benefitted you and your business?

It’s important to build connections. It’s similar to the traditional business world where networking is important, the same goes for social media. When you start engaging with other creators, you have the opportunity to get to know a real person. I have been able to meet some truly fabulous people through my business in the last few months. When you build connections, you’re building trust as well. And when people trust you, they will show up for you by engaging on your content and can even work with you on partnerships. It’s also been really nice to get to know other Disney creators because I unfortunately do not live close to the parks. So I am not one of those people who can go every week. I’ve had people that I have gotten to know who have offered to take product photos for me in the parks when I am not able to be there. I am always so appreciative when people offer to do something like that because they don’t have to. They don’t owe that to me. But they want to help me out and I am always blown away by the support from people I haven’t gotten to meet in person yet. 

There are many people who want to start their own small business solely for the profits. But, we both know there’s so much more to it than money. It involves passion and I can see it in your creations and social media content! What would you say to someone who is looking to start their own small business?

I would definitely say don’t start one just for profit. It takes a lot of work to make a business profitable. Sometimes it can take months to years before you reach a place where you are really profitable. One thing I have had to learn is patience. I have all these goals and big dreams, but it doesn’t happen overnight. You really have to work for it and that takes time. And I would also say that it is easy to get discouraged, but if it’s something you really want, hang in there! And have fun with it too, you want to do this for a reason and you need to enjoy it!

What are some of your goals for Glitter & Daisies in 2022 (that you don’t mind sharing!)?

Oh this is a fun one! In 2022 I would love to expand my Princess Series collection. I am hoping to potentially add a few new products (besides ears) to the shop as well. And a goal I have is to reach different locations across the country. One of my goal states is California! This may not happen in 2022, but I would also love to someday do a pop up of my shop. That may take more planning than I can do in 2022, but definitely a future goal of mine!

So, I know you are going to Disney World in 2022! What are you most looking forward to doing?

Oh my gosh, everything!! I am going to celebrate my 7 year dating anniversary with my boyfriend. We have never been to Disney together so I am really excited to experience this with him. We were able to snag a reservation at Cinderella’s Royal Table and I am soooo excited to get to eat there! As far as attraction wise, I am super stoked to get to ride Slinky Dog Dash, it’ll be our first time getting to ride it! And honestly just excited to be at Disney. It’s such a magical place and it’ll be nice to just be there.

I also know you participate in virtual runDisney events. Tell us a little bit about that!

So back in my high school days I used to run cross country. I kept up running throughout college just not on a team. Once I got into full on adulthood I had a harder time with maintaining work, social life and having down time after work to relax. I wanted to get back into an exercise routine once I was working from home because I really had the time to make it a priority. Then I learned runDisney was doing virtual races and I jumped at the opportunity! What’s great about it is you have the ability to do this on your own time, it’s not something where you have to do it on a certain day. So you could space it out over multiple days or do it all at once depending on your preference. And it’s nice to still feel a part of the magic even if you aren’t able to attend the races in person. Plus you get a super cool medal and I just can’t pass that up! 🙂

Lastly, what are some ways that others can support small businesses like yours and others that they love?

Engagement on social media is huge to help businesses be seen, especially when bigger brands tend to purchase ads and show up more often in people’s feeds. Sharing posts and videos is a free way to help businesses reach more people and show your appreciation for the content they spend time making. Tagging friends in comments if there is a product you think they would love is also a great way to help out! And I can’t tell you how much joy it  brings to see someone appreciate the work you put into not only your product but your content. Sometimes it can take hours to get the right photos or videos and edit them. Every little like or comment means the world! 🙂

Holly is extremely wise beyond her years. As she shows off her Disney ears, I cannot wait to see where Glitter & Daisies takes her in the many many years to come!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Is Ipsy Worth It?

When I was in high school, I used to get SO excited when I would see my favorite influencers at the time unboxing their monthly Ipsy bag subscriptions on most notably YouTube. Just a few years later as I got my own first-ever big girl job, I decided to *finally* take the plunge and sign up for a monthly Ipsy bag subscription in June 2021! Personally, I think that Ipsy is worth it for myself, but today, I will be sharing a little bit about Ipsy and its subscriptions and as to whether or not it may be the right fit for you, too.

What is Ipsy?

Ipsy promotes the idea that beauty is filled with self expression and inclusivity of people of all kinds. Ipsy strives to provide its community with “an endless exchange of beauty ideas” and inspiration first and foremost, celebrate the individual wearing their products, and empower others, too. Ipsy offers its consumers with a Glam Bag every month (~$13/month) that is filled with a personalized selection of sample sized products based on a survey that they take upon registration. Each of the items with the exception of one that I pick out are a big fat mystery until I get a monthly email showing me a preview of my Glam Bag when it ships. Along with the Glam Bag, Ipsy also has a Glam Bag Plus and Glam Bag X option at an additional cost per month.

Along with the Glam Bag, Ipsy also allows its community to become subscribers of its Refreshments. I personally am, and each month I get some hand cream (which I use as Christmas gifts for friends and family) and makeup remover wipes that I LOVE even with my sensitive skin. Actually, I used to be an avid Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes user until Refreshments came along sending me a free complimentary package of their makeup remover wipes upon signing up, which then I knew I needed to sign up and not order from anywhere else!

Ipsy also has a shop, sells exclusive Glam Bags designed by celebrities including the iconic Halsey, and a gift section. In addition to each monthly Glam Bag, subscribers can select add-on’s, too.

Why I LOVE Ipsy!

Ipsy allows me to try different products that I would not have used otherwise. I have been given some duo eyeshadow palettes that I LOVE and make my makeup routine oh so easy. Similarly speaking, I have also loved the blushes and highlighters that I have received as well as my Ciate Watermelon scented face primer. Personally, I have not been one to shop for makeup on my own beyond what I use on a regular basis. Ipsy through and through has allowed me to try out some new and exciting products and branch out – many of these products I have LOVED!

While Ipsy is a monthly investment, I think it is worthwhile if you are into makeup, wear makeup regularly, and are always wanting to give some new products a go. Ipsy is definitely worth it for me, but I cannot answer as to whether or not it is for you. Only you can answer that for yourself.

XOXO – Katie <3

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Why Adulting is HARD During the Holiday’s

The other day, I woke up to my glaring alarm clock at 6am. Pure exhaustion was at its finest. I had to catch a train later that morning, yet, I hadn’t packed for my weekend trip. So, I grabbed my coffee, started to chug it down to wake myself up, and I still didn’t feel awake. However, through it all, I got up and I started to hustle and hustle double as much as I was just a month ago. COVID-19 shot down the holiday festivities for the most part in 2020, and in 2021 my exhaustion is greater than ever before. With all of this, I know that I am NOT alone. The holidays are exhausting and that is OKAY!

Since starting my full-time job, I have felt exhausted more than ever before. Working full time is extremely tiring, and it is the grind that never stops. So many days, I wake up and think “oh I want to do *insert activity here* and I’ll get to it over Winter Break”, but then realize that working full time does not usually provide the luxury of a three week break. Some jobs don’t even give Christmas Eve or even Christmas Day off – I feel VERY fortunate that I have both off and am able to take a few days off for myself. It’s hard to realize that the working world does not have the same luxuries as the college world in terms of Winter Break and breaks, but it is something that each of us must face in our lives. We MUST keep going, despite all of the lack of breaks that we may get.

A few weeks ago, my friend Shivani and I were talking about how we do not need to overbook ourselves during the holiday season. However, I have *most definitely* overbooked myself already. I am traveling every weekend before Christmas, traveling even during the week, going on a few late afternoon/evening excursions, attending evening events and even hosting my own Christmas Party, and traveling for New Years, too – ALL while working full time. Let alone, we cannot forget that every human needs 3 meals a day give or take, some time for physical activity, time to work on their potential side hustle, and take care of their potential pets/children along with getting approximately 8 hours of sleep each night, in order to be healthy. Not to mention, the holidays brings on gift shopping, gift cooking and baking, decorating for the holidays, gift wrapping, card sending, and much more. The holidays are crazy, and it’s easy to overbook ourselves, especially when the world feels like it is never-ending.

When I was in college, a friend and I were in her car before a fashion show for one of our finals. For the course, the fashion show was a part of our final exam. I recall while riding with her to go pick out outfits for modeling within that fashion show she said “finals feel like a 3 week period that we think is never-ending until it is”. Indeed, the holidays are the SAME exact way for adults. However, the break part usually isn’t 3 weeks to a month. We keep going, despite the fatigue and we learn something if not many things from it. We learn how to maintain ourselves on our own and not depend on anyone else. We gain independence, strength, and the dedication to our work and outside of work commitments. Adulting is TOUGH, but it is the pathway to the life that can provide for ourselves, our pets, and someday our partners and maybe even children.

Adulting sucks sometimes, but it can also be super rewarding. The holidays make adulting that much more tougher. Having to keep going, despite the stress, chaos, and overbooking outside of the work world isn’t easy. But, at the same time, each and every single one of us has one life to live. Even throughout the extreme fatigue that arises during the holiday season with it all, living our lives to the fullest and enjoying every single moment is important. We all have one life to live and it is what we make it, especially during this holiday season of overbooking, overcommitment, and most importantly togetherness.

XOXO – Katie <3

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