Meet the Blogger: Lynn of Hearted Girl

SOOO excited to introduce my sweet bloggity friend Lynn, from Hearted Girl. One of my favorite things about Lynn is that she genuinely cares for the people she connects with. Her thoughtful comments and exchanges lead to our instant friendship over the blogosphere. She is a gem to say the least! Hoping to meet her in person someday:) Thank you Lynn for being a guest here! Honored to have you!

1. You have such a positive and fun space over at Hearted Girl. What got you to start blogging?
Thank you so much Anna! I actually "started" a blog inside my head about 2 years before it became a reality. From the moment I spotted my first glimpse of others amazing spaces I was hooked on the medium and impressed with the variety it allowed for. To me, a blog is like a personal online self-exposure of memories, dreams, hopes, plans, inspirations and day to day life. It's the living diary form that appealed to me plus the design integration towards graphics, photography and illustrations.

After completing a web development course and upgrading my skill set I felt ready with the tools to brand myself in a way I'd feel proud of. Since then I started hearted girl and have loved growing and expanding on those initial roots. Nothing like a good dose of preparation to give you the confident spark!

(via hearted girl)

2. When someone asks you what you do for a living, how do you describe it?
ohhh, the "elevator speech", that's one I've sort of rebelled against. Since I was little my soul put it's back up towards any boxed in fences. The way I usually describe what I do is that I'm a creative person who's found a balance between my love of the logical and my passion for design.
This intention has expanded into a variety of workplaces; all with creative environments. Right now I'm involved with 3 things: I'm an event & office coordinator for Eckhart Tolle Teachings, a free-lance designer and a blogger. You know, to me, even Excel spreadsheets can be seen as a Zen like experience because you need to focus on the data, refine it and embrace frequent interruptions. Staying scrappy, being reactive with a good sense of humor and blending in some DIY approaches seems to be where it's at in my books!


3. What has been the best aspect of blogging for you?
Hand in hand: connection and creation. I had no idea when I began blogging that there would be such a grand community. I'm so grateful and humbled by the amount of wise ladies I've been fortunate enough to cross paths with; they are all awesome as anything!!! Bonus points go to Adobe CS, addicted is an understatement.

(via hearted girl)

4. What are your go to places of inspiration? (people, places, blogs, etc.)
people: the boyf b/c he can pretty much MacGyver anything and has wizard ideas about graphic elements. Kiddos are the smallest inspirations; their take on things almost contains transformative powers zooming me back to innocence. Childisms that speak volumes of truth make me recall a more tender age when we all were harmless as doves, believing in every possibility and young-minded delight.
places: Italy and New York.
blogs: too many to name but the first to come to mind are a beautiful mess, Rockstar Diaries and DESIGNLOVEFEST.

5. Just for fun, what is your favorite way to spend a day?
awe, any day with the boyf, our fur babies and some sunshine works wonders on me. If the evening included a lovely restaurant and a live concert then that would be most excellent too!


Thank you Anna, it's an honor to be here! Your space is so beloved by me; our friendship has been a pleasure to polish and be blessed with. ♥

Meet the Blogger: Ashley LeMieux of The Shine Project

It so encouraging to see a blogger working torwards positive change in society. Tell us what inspired The Shine Project? 

At the beginning of the year, I felt an extra PUSH to make my goal of getting a novel published by the time I turned 25. Not to reveal my ripe old age (ha) but I turn 25 at the end of this year, and I realized the time is NOW. With this motivation, I realized that there are millions out there, like me, who just need an extra push. I chose the word SHINE to represent what I wanted to accomplish, and wanted to inspire others to do the same in their lives. There's no time for unhappiness and unmet dreams!
How do you go about starting a project and making it successful? 

Starting a SHINE project is easy! I post weekly challenges that push all of us out of our comfort zones to SHINE. This could be anything from writing letters to support cancer patients, to accomplishing something you've never done. You can also start a SHINE SERVICE PROJECT. Brainstorm ideas of how you can help in your community, and get a group together. To make it successful, you just have to have faith in what you're capable in accomplishing.

What do you love most about your work/and or blogging? 

On May 6th, I will officially be SELF-EMPLOYED with the Shine Project. I am so thrilled I have to pinch myself everyday. I LOVE making a difference in people's lives. I love putting all of my energy into something that has a bigger purpose, and seeing the happiness that comes to others because of it.
Where do you turn to get your inspiration? 

I get my inspiration from my every day life. I've been working at an inner city school, and I see the love and encouragement that they need. They inspire me to make a change in the world. Finding joy in every day life, little things, gives me so many ideas to write about as well. As wierd as it might seem, I get floods of ideas while driving in the car. It's my thinking time.
If you were given the opportunity to make one major change in the world, what would it be? If I could make one change, I would change attitudes. If their was more positivity, there would be more LOVE, determination, hope, and courage. It's easy to get weighed down in this crazy world, and we forget what our potential is. Just think, if everyone believed in themselves, and cared about how their neighbor was doing...THIS WORLD WOULD BE AMAZING!

Just for fun, what are your top 5 day to day must haves??

1.Smooches from hubby

2.Time to write

3. Pink lipgloss. I seriously HAVE to have it on. Addicted, perhaps

4. 4-9 miles of running. However, this must have has been highly impacted because I tore my knee a month ago doing it. I'm in physical therapy and have some recovery time to go through!

5.Prayer

Her positive attitude is contagious isn't it?!  Thank you for being here Ashley!

Find more about Ashley and The Shine Project here:

Blog | Twitter | Facebook

P.S. Just a reminder to put in your daily vote for IHOD over at the Top25 Circle of Moms nomination. Thank you so much!

Meet the Blogger: Melanie Blodgett of You Are My Fave

Your favorite aspect of blogging?

The friends I've made online. That kind of sounds like I went to a chat room and met some sketchy dude and now we're getting married! But tell me, when you meet someone for the first time, what's the topic of conversation? Your similarities and interests. Relating to someone's blog and getting to know them online is just the initial step of becoming a friend. 

I went to a conference a couple weeks ago and met several bloggers that I've read for a couple years now. I even roomed with one that I had never met in person - and you know what? When we met we instantly embraced and felt like old friends. My mouth hurt from talking and laughing so much. I came home wanting all of them to become my next door neighbors. 

(Pinwheel Party - more here)

Meet the Blogger: Kirsten Krason of 6th Street Design School

Q: Which came first- blog or business?

A: My blog came first. But I always knew a business would follow. I started my blog about 6 months before I graduated from school so I already had clients ready once my business started after graduation. It was seriously great. My blog has been my biggest form of advertising and I've never had a shortage of great clients. 

Q: What has been the best aspect of blogging for you?

A: The best aspect of blogging is the feeling I get from great comments. It means so so so much to have someone say, "wow, great job!" or "we love your blog!". It's hard when you're starting out a blog to know if anyone is listening or if anyone cares. The fact that I've been able to grow my readership and write about things people actually care about is astonishing to me. I love it! 

Where do you turn for design inspiration?

Q: Where do you turn for design inspiration?

A: I always turn to blogs for design inspiration. My favorite blogs to read are fellow designers like me. I love reading about their sources or recent projects. There are so many talented people out there! 

Where would you like your business to be in 5 years?

In 5 years I'll probably have two kids total. Maybe 3??? So I'm really not sure how the business will run. Hopefully I figure out how to balance it all! I learn so much with each new client and project so hopefully in 5 years my business will run more efficiently and who knows I might even have an assistant. 

Just for fun- what are top must haves for designers?

- a supportive family
- great clients
- a good attitude and personality
- some great fabrics
- a space to work. Somewhere that inspires you. 

Thank you so much Kristen for being a guest here, and sharing a little more about you and the work you do! She is a fabulous chica so make sure and say hello! 

 6th Street Design  School

Blog | Twitter

*images via Kirsten on her lovely blog!!

Meet the Blogger: Rachel of Lovely Clusters

*I am so happy to introduce you to Rachel- one of my very first favorite blogs. She is bursting with talent and inspiration:) If you are a small business owner take note! :) 

Which has been the best aspect of blogging for you?

Being able to meet new people from all around the world that have similar interests to me. I feel like I am part of a great supportive community and I love how everyone is so nice and generous. 

What inspired the Lovely Clusters Gallery/Shop?

It actually started with a sentence that I saw on Rachel Ashwell’s blog. On one of her beautiful photos she wrote “clusters of loveliness”. I just adored how that sounded so I started thinking of a way I could use those words. I decided to create a theme on my blog where I would create a cluster of images whether it be by color, category or mini portfolio of an artist or designers work. During that time I started getting really into Etsy and got lost on it for hours on end. I felt like I was rummaging through a flea market. I thought that by cataloging my favorite items on my blog and by adding them to my favorites on Etsy, it would be a good way to go back and find lovely sellers and items, but the navigation wasn’t quite right. I am a graphic and web designer so I figured that I could design a website where you could easily find favorite sellers and items by color or category. Once I had that idea I mulled it over in my head for 2 months and one day I just decided that I had to do it. It has been so much fun ever since!  I love meeting new sellers from around the world and constantly being inspired by the large amount of creative individuals out there.

(source via Lovely Clusters)

What are your favorite resources for inspiration and creative ideas?

I am an internet junkie so I am constantly looking for beautiful photos from pinterest.com, flickr.com, tumblr.com and of course other blogs on my google reader. Lately I love browsing chic magazine and catalogs online on issuu.com.

(via Lovely Clusters Shops)

For small business owners, what have been the #1 tools for your success?
1. Online Networking with other small businesses and bloggers through twitter, blogging, facebook, and email. I would not be where I am today without it all.
2. I also don't know what I would do without photoshop. My internet browser and photoshop are the two things I open up first thing in the morning.
3. My camera has also been quite handy. I get the best responses when I add my own photos to the blog and its a great way to log my creative path. 

(source via Lovely Clusters)

Just for fun- what are your 5 must haves as a designer? My Inspiration Board , Photoshop, Printer/Scanner, Camera

Lovely Clusters

Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Shop Gallery

Meet the Blogger: Erin of Dandelion & Grey

Which came first - blog or business?

The blog came first! After planning our wedding in June '09 I needed an outlet to continue my creativity. It wasn't until about 6 months after I had been blogging that I realized I also really missed the planning & design aspects of our wedding- which led me to start Dandelion & Grey Event Design in January 2010.

Your event and styling work is beautiful! What is your favorite aspect of getting to work with events?

My favorite aspect of getting to work with events is the diversity and creativity involved. Each couple has a different story, history & style and I truly feel so lucky to get the opportunity to bring that to life.

Where do you go for inspiration for your creative work?

I gather inspiration everywhere, but I would say the top three places I find it would be blogs, travel and tv/film. I am continually impressed at what I see on a daily basis on so many blogs. I think this community we have all created is just incredible and allows us to push ourselves to fulfill new creative endeavors.

How has blogging influenced your work or vice versa?

Blogging is a huge part of what I do. I love to be able to share my photoshoots, parties, weddings and inspiration with my readers. On the flipside, the business has influenced the blog in the sense that I tend to blog only about my work and inspiration these days, whereas I used to blog daily wedding inspiration. It definitely is ever-evolving, but this is a good way for me to share my work & maintain a balance! 

Just for fun - what is on your must have list for fall? 

Fall is my favorite season! I just purchased some adorable camel colored flats that I can't wait to wear. I also adore scarves, sweaters and boots...they are definitely staples in my Fall wardrobe!

Dandelion and Grey

Blog| Twitter | Portfolio

*Thank you Erin for being a visitor here! You work is such an inspiration:) If you haven't yet seen her blog, you are missing out! Head on over!

Meet the Blogger: Alli of Hooray Design

Hooray is one of my favorite resources for lifestyle inspiration. How did you determine your blog content and direction?

There are tons of blogs out there and I try not to take mine too seriously or let my life surround it, but I am passionate about things like parties, decorating, and discovering shops, so that's what I blog about. I named it Hooray in honor of celebrating fun, creative things. Plus I wanted an excuse to say my favorite word more :)

What came first- business or blog?

Blogging came first. I kind of fell into it after discovering blogs through a friend who had one. I started following her links and before I knew it I was reading a list of design blogs regularly. It was amazing to find so much inspiration on everything from decorating to cooking. I'd always been a big magazine person, so it helped fill the void left behind from good mags like Domino folding.

Your Hooray shop is filled with stationary and print goodies. What is your favorite aspect of being a small business owner?

I've been interested in owning a shop since I was little, so my small online store is just the first step in reaching that goal. I love the creativity involved with designing your own business, as well as being able to work with customers who share the same enthusiasm for design. 

(all items via Hooray shop)

Where are your top places to go for inspiration? 

Oh, there are so many...Rachel and Mariah for cute finds, Natalie for business advice, Krystle for healthy living, Melanie for party ideas. And offline - books, nature, and travel for endless sources of inspiration. 
Just for fun - must have items for fall??

I'm loyal to this combination: trench coat, great pair of boots, and a cute scarf. Perfect with any outfit!

(photo sources can be found via Hooray blog)

Thank you Alli for being a part of the series! Alli was one of my first blogger friends:) 

You will LOVE her blog and shop. Find more here:

Blog | Shop | Facebook

Inspiration: The Anderson Crew

I first discovered the Anderson Family through Buggie and Jellybean. (Thanks Amy!) I recently saw this post, and it made my heart swell. Read on for some true inspiration from Emily and her crew!

You are in the process of adopting a little girl from Ethiopia. What helped your family decide to adopt?
Well, Mr. Anderson and I have always known that we would adopt.  I have had a heart for it, for as long as I could remember.  We didn't think it would happen so soon for us, but the more we felt led to go in this direction, the more it made sense to us. If we bring her into our family now, while our munchkins are still little, I'm hoping it will help us all to adjust. I never want her to forget where she's from, but at the same time, I will always want her to think back and remember growing up with us.


What advice would you give to families considering adoption?
Fear is a reality of adoption.  There are so many unknowns.  We believe that God has us on this path for a reason, so we choose to trust Him.  I am having to give up with my fears...because really, what good does it do to worry about them anyways?  If I start to become overwhelmed with fears, or unknowns, I just look at her sweet little picture and realize it's all worth it.  Just like pregnancy/labor/delivery...it's hard work, but completely worth it in the end.

Follow the Anderson's Story Here:

Blog | Ollie Wren Photography

*Thank you Emily for sharing your inspiration with us. I am looking forward to following this incredible journey!

Meet the Blogger: M. Fay of Amateur Couture

What decided the theme for your blog?

Amateur Couture has evolved to a blog that celebrates the connection between art and fashion, often in the most literal of senses. It happened very organically, with a Jason Wu dress that reminded me of a painting that I loved. I posted both images and the concept was born, sharing my favorite things and using art as inspiration.

How do you go about finding the perfect pairings between art and fashion?

Sometimes I find the dress.  Sometimes I find the art. I remember pictures the way other people remember words. It can be like a memory game that happens quickly, as often as it can be a treasure hunt.

Is this an outsource of creativity for you or is it an extension of the line of work you are in?

In my fantasy world I am a sophisticated lover of art, but in reality I am an amateur devotee. I spend my days as a shop girl in a darling soap store, but at night I turn into creative wanderer, drowning myself in art books, fashion magazines, and my beloved laptop.

If you could go any place in the world to soak up fashion and art where would it be?

I wish I could say Paris or New York, but I haven’t been to either unless in a daydream. I find inspiration in shapes, color combination and textures. Looking for the beauty in all things, I challenge myself to see the world through rose-colored glasses.

What are your favorite sources of creative inspiration (this can be websites, places, people. Etc)

Oh my! I could go on and on and on….may I rant and rave.  Chagall, Bardot, Warhol, the stars, the sea, my Grandmother’s jewelry box, Chanel (always Chanel), the promise of an empty canvas or a blank page. 

Amateur Couture

Blog | Twitter

* Thank you so much M. Fay for being a part of the series! I am fascinated by your blog and can't wait to see more!

Meet the Blogger: Liz Stanley - Say Yes to Hoboken

Tell us how you got started blogging, and what has been the best part about it?

I started blogging as more of a family blog, documenting our adventures living in Hoboken, NJ.  Inspired my sister in law, Jordan Ferney of Oh Happy Day, I started using it as a way to archive products and diy projects I was working on and it just kind of blossomed from there. My favorite part is what a creative outlet it's been for me and the sense of community bloggers have. I love blogging, look forward to doing it everyday and even if I were making nothing, I'd still be doing it. It's one of my very favorite hobbies.

(Cloud Rug Tutorial  featured here)

As a mother, small business owner, and blogger, how do you juggle it all?

I'm someone that really likes to be busy. I'm pretty efficient in my time use and love to have a schedule and plan out my day. With only one child now, it seems to work out fine. I set aside time during the day (usually during naps or in the evening) to deal with blogging/advertising issues/answering emails and then make sure to shut the laptop quickly and go do something fun with my son. It's a nice balance right now.  

(Big Bow Pencil Skirt)

Where do you go for creative inspiration? 

I'm embarrassed to tell you how many blogs I subscribe to but it is A LOT. I don't read them all every day, or even every week, but when I am looking for inspiration it's a great place to start. I also love old issues of domino and martha stewart kids.  

What do you see yourself doing 5 years from now?

I have no idea! I love working from home and hope to be able to keep doing it even when our family grows. It's very fulfilling for me and a great creative outlet.

(Beach Tote Bag)

Just for fun- what are your weekend guilty pleasures? 

I love running, camping, hiking  and sewing. I also love checking out local thrift stores and eating out at a new restaurant here in San Francisco. 

Find Liz Stanley Here:

Blog | Shop | Twitter

*So happy to welcome Liz Stanley here on IHOD! She has been one of my favorite bloggers since I entered the blogosphere... Say Yes to Hoboken is overflowing with creative inspiration...I hope you will visit! Thank you Liz for taking the time to be a part of this series!

Meet the Blogger: Melissa from So About What I Said

In 5 words describe Melissa: 

Honest, loyal, determined, funny, quirky
What brought you to start "So About What I Said?" 
I began my blog in November 2008. As a writer, I wanted to have a central body for my work, and a blog seemed like the perfect fit - an electronic portfolio of my writing. Also, no one seems to talk much about looking for love with a physical disability, and I felt that was an area that needed a voice - a frank and honest chronicle of my journey. Also, I love to mix in little gems that aren't necessarily disability related, but are just fun because in life, I've learned to not take myself too seriously. You have to enjoy the fun and awesome things along the way.

You write incredibly well. Do you have a big dream/goal to accomplish for writing in the future? 
Why thank you - that really means a lot to me! I wrote a piece about my disability for Redbook magazine a few years ago, and writing for magazines full-time would definitely be my ultimate goal!




What has been the best part of blogging for you? 
Oh, the best part of blogging for me has been the ability to connect with such amazing people. There are so many wonderful blogs out there, and sometimes I just want to take entire weekends and do nothing but read blogs. Give me a root beer and I could read read blogs all day.

(all image sources via So About What I Said)

Some of my favorite posts of yours are "letters to your future husband." I laugh or cry every time I read them. Your vulnerability is inspiring. What is your motivation behind them? 
Those letters are actually my favorite part of my blog. When I started my blog, I knew that those letters would be a recurring feature. I like the idea of capturing a moment in time for someone you haven't met yet. It's another interesting way to document my journey, and writing has always been very therapeutic for me. Even if Mr. Melissa Blake doesn't come along, it'll still be fun to look back at these letters in 10 years and see just how far I've come.

Find more of Melissa Here!:

Blog | Facebook | Twitter

*Thank you sooo much Melissa! If you can't already tell, Melissa is a pretty incredible gal. I have learned so much from her already:) Please make sure and head over and stay hello!

Meet the Blogger: Jennifer of I Art U

Q: 5 words that describe Jennifer:

A: curious. imaginative! reflective. harmonious. and adaptable :)

Q: What got you to start blogging?

A: I was in major need of a creative outlet! Blogging is the perfect outlet. It helps me organize thoughts and ideas as well as share my passions and inspirations with others!

Q: When people ask you what you do for a living, how do you describe it?

A: I like to say that I practice the art of creatively living and loving well :) 

Q: When you are in need of some inspiration, where do you look?

A: I'm inspired by the juxtaposition between the city and the earth! Those two things are inspirations within themselves--and I seek their wisdom! Blogs are also essential to my daily living--there are many that I look to for creative awakenings!

Q: You have incredible design taste. What are the elements that catch your eye when it comes to design?

A: Wow, thank you! I am flattered! Let's see...in short, I am consistently drawn to clean and simple design! I'm also drawn to a lot of texture, colors, and symmetry (YUM)! I drool over mid century modern and sustainable and urban design! Those are just off the top of my head!

(all image resorces found via i art u)

Find Jennifer Here:

blog | twitter | facebook | flickr

*Thank you Jennifer for being a part of the series and sharing your inspiration with us! Look forward to more!

Meet the Blogger: Chris of Postcards & Pretties

Tell us the story behind the name Postcards and Pretties:

There is no real story behind the name. Since postcards are mainly used to send short messages to people, I saw my blog as a virtual postcard where I would be able to share my ideas and inspirations with my readers in different parts of the world… and not to mention I liked how two words sounded together.  J

What has been the best aspect of blogging for you?

It’s a tie…the best things for me about blogging is getting all the ideas I dream about out and being able to share them with my readers. I also love the blogging community - I would have never thought that I would meet such incredibly talented people {fellow bloggers, photographers, vendors, etc.} from all over the world with a common goal to inspire, create and support. I love that!

Your inspiration boards are incredible! What are your resources for inspiration?

Wow! Thank you! Let’s see…Antique shops, flea markets, magazines {online or print} and wedding and design blogs are mostly my main resources. I find inspiration in pretty much everything and anything.  I’ve noticed since I began blogging I tend to be more observant and keep notes of random things that could possibly transform into next weeks inspiration board. I’ve even began to carry a small journal in my bag for whenever I get inspired.

Do you have a current favorite color scheme or wedding trend?

It varies…but I would have to say soft neutrals - lots of cream, soft brown, pink and peach – to me there is something warm and casual about those colors.

I’m also a big fan of simple and intimate outdoor weddings especially with vintage/heirloom pieces mixed in and diy projects.

Just for fun-What is your ideal way to spend your weekends?

Sleeping in!! but that never happens. I love to visit local farmer’s markets, doing a bit of shopping and spending time with my nephew and niece.

Find more Postcards & Pretties Here:

Blog | Twitter | Flickr

* Find all the resources for the photos on Chris' blog! Thank you Chris for being a part of the series and sharing your inspiration with us! Can't wait to see more!