Girl Talk // The Thrifter

I'd like to introduce you to Amy Morby, the lovely writer of A is for Ampersand; I'm so happy she's here to join us! Amy just finished up a lovely month of Self - Love on her blog that I simply loved, and in case you missed it, she did a little wrap up here. Amy also currently works for Blowfish, who we all know has just lovely shoes, which if you didn't know that, then you need to hop on over and take a look (AFTER you read this ^_^) Now, enjoy!

What is your job title?

I am a former graphic designer, a freelance writer, blogger, full-time cat lady, music connoisseur, and voracious thrifter. I work from home for Blowfish and do all kinds of other freelance on the side.

What do you love about yourself?

I went through a long period of hating myself and the way I looked, but once I got over it, I learned to not care what anyone else thought. I started wearing crazy thrifted dresses because I and only I liked them, and that's all that mattered to me. I started wearing a lot of thrifted sweaters that most people gawked at and crazy vintage gold shoes that made my coworkers question my sanity. But none of it matters because it's all about loving yourself and rolling with it.

I love that I went through that journey of self-hate so I could end up in a lifelong journey of self love. I think that the most important thing a woman can do for herself is find her own self love. If you are 100% you, the rest falls into place.

Who is your role model?

My heart completely belongs to Tina Fey. She is extremely witty, wildly hilarious, and basically just my favorite human being on the planet. Maybe you guys are expecting a deeper answer than that, but I feel like Tina embodies everything I ever wanted to be, which is mostly just a writer for McSweeneys or The Onion. :) But seriously, though--she completely took over a mostly male-dominated business and made it rain. I love her.

What Inspires You?

Music is my only true love. I start every day of my life with music, I work all 8 hours of my day with music, and I usually end the day falling asleep to music. I am a hardcore vinyl enthusiast and can always be found with headphones on. The bands that mostly inspire me lately? Here We Go Magic, Radiohead, Tame Impala, Deerhunter. They are all the loves of my life.

I also find a whirlwind of inspiration from thrifting. Obviously thrifting sparks my wild style side, but thrifting also inspires my deign style. I know--very strange. But the vintage patterns and vibes I find thrifting always give me ideas for my designs. Plus, I find thrifting quite therapeutic, which is always inspiring. There's nothing like the high that comes from a fantastic thrift find, you know? So whenever that happens, I always try to channel it back into my work.

What are 5 words that describe you?

Introverted, quirky, musical, opinionated, stubborn

What is your biggest insecurity?

Like most women, I have about a bajillion insecurities. It's so easy to get caught up in society's definition of what it means to be a woman. If I had to choose one, it would be my shy personality. I've always greatly admired women who have an air of confidence, and I wish I could channel that in myself. But, I do think all of us women owe it to ourselves to fight these insecurities on a daily basis and redefine what it means to be a strong, confident woman.

If you could be anyone for a day, who would it be?

Defintely Jenny Lewis. I mean, come on. Look at that red hair! And her style! I've idolized Jenny Lewis since I was 14. I'll never get over my massive girl crush on her.

Thanks so much for sharing with us Amy! Everything was just so nicely said; I love hearing from such genuine girls like yourself! 

If y'all would like to visit with Amy a bit more, you can hop on over to her blog or read up on some of her tweets! Have a lovely afternoon!

xo.

Melisa

Girl Talk // The Beauty Queen

I'm so excited to introduce you to the oh so sweet Britanny Toll! She is just a doll; former Miss New Mexico and just as humble as can be. I love to read her daily musings over at Happy Brittany and I know that you will just love her!

What is your job title?

My professional job title is Manager of Teacher Leadership Development with the non-profit teaching corps Teach For America. After my two year commitment as a Teach For America corps member in New Mexico, teaching pre-kindergarten, I decided to move forward with the impact I was making in my classroom and join the Teacher Leadership Development team of Teach For America. I now support 24 first & second year teachers who have committed to teaching for 2 years in Oklahoma in an effort to close the achievement gap and reform the education system. Most of the teachers I support teach pre-kindergarten as well. I am continuing my work & deepening my understanding of the realm of early childhood education and the impact of a strong educational start in a child’s life. My personal job title is Happy Brittany on happybrittany.com. I love the art of expanding my optimistic attitude through my blog and showcasing various self-improvement activities and actions in hopes of inspiring or connecting with others.

What do you love about yourself?

What I love about myself is that I am a collective character of all of the amazing people I have come to know in my life. I’ve been fortuned with incredible friends, family members, co-workers, beauty queens and children in my life. All of these individuals have influenced me in countless ways and have molded me into the character that I am now & continue to evolve into. I not only learn from each of them and their experiences but have increased my confidence for who I am through their genuine support and appreciation of my quirks & personality. I really cannot take responsibility for who I have become; I owe it to so many others. 

Who is your role model?

My role model… I’ve had the great fortune of having many people to look up to in my life. When I think of who I am now and where I’ve come from I recognize that the greatest influence on my life has been from my very own mother. While I consider myself very independent and free-spirited I know that I learned to be this way from her and the empowerment she gave me to pursue the life of my choice. Through our lives together she has taught me many lessons about life, happiness and the impact of our choices. What I have admired most about her is her ability to love at such a deep and unconditional level. Along with that I cannot go without saying that she has impeccable fashion sense and organization skills- two traits I am fortunate to have adopted from her as well. 

What inspires you?

When I think of what inspires me I am compelled by the potential to end educational inequity in our country. I am inspired by the individuals who work at the forefront of educational reform every day to ensure that every child receives the exceptional education they deserve and nothing less. I am inspired by people who believe in the potential of every individual and who strive to help others shine through complete selflessness. I believe with every sparkle in my body that if we can close the achievement gap then we can ultimately end poverty.

What are five words that describe you?

creative, optimistic, affectionate, talkative, clever

What is your biggest insecurity?

My biggest insecurity is how I am perceived. On the outside it may be easy for others to generalize my ambitions and intelligence, but on the inside I am so much more than what meets the eye. I hate being misunderstood and become insecure if I feel someone has misperceived me by appearance or insignificant actions. I would never want my commitment to my work or my aspirations to be compromised based on my exterior.

If you could be anyone for a day, who would it be?

If I could be anyone for a day I would want to be Alice during her adventures in Wonderland. I have always connected with the character of Alice… perhaps it’s her love for books & cats, maybe it’s her blue dress & blonde hair combination (which parallels my evening gown presentation at Miss USA), but certainly it’s her dreamy heart & curious mind that I connect with most. I also identify with the naïve spirit she demonstrates through the characters and situations she encounters in Wonderland. Given our similarities I would love to take her place for a day in Wonderland, assuming I would still have my friends, family, and work to come home to at the end of the day.

Thanks so much for chatting with us Brittany!! You're just the sweetest! I hope you all have a lovely day and if you want to get to know Brittany a little better, go visit here!

xo.

Melisa

Girl Talk // The Soft Spoken

Today we get to have a chat with the lovely Meredith of One Sheepish Girl. Meredith is just the sweetest gal and oh so terribly talented! I absolutely adore her work and I think you will all really enjoy reading more about her!

What is your job title?

At the moment I am a college senior, knitter, and blogger!

What do you love about yourself?

If you asked me this question a few years ago, I would have had no response. I went through a time in my life where I loved nothing about myself. I dealt with insecurities and doubts in a big way. Thankfully, I discovered knitting, blogging, and slowly developed a “voice” and sense of self. I still struggle with my insecurities, but I definitely feel better about myself today. I love that I love different things than people my age. I like Jane Austen, drinking tea, and curling up with a good book or movie more than anything.

Who is your role model?

My role model is definitely my mom. Without a doubt she is the person I look up to the most. She has supported my creativity ever since I could roll a glob of Play-Doh into a worm. I am so appreciative of her wisdom and kind spirit. I just love her so much!

What inspires you?

I am inspired by bright colors mixed with classic styles. I really love sweaters and cardigans, a pretty basic fashion staple, but I tend to navigate toward fun patterns and colors making them more unique. A skirt with a basic shape covered in pink triangles is something that would definitely catch my eye! I guess I’m a little bit like what inspires me. I’m classic, dare I say “granny”, because I love Frank Sinatra and knitting at home, but I’m also a bit colorful in the ways I dress and live my life.

What are five words that describe you?

Reserved, Kind, Bibliophile, Determined, and Sheepish ;-)

What is your biggest insecurity?

Unfortunately, my biggest insecurity is worrying about what other people think. I worry about what others think of my clothes, knitting, blog posts…pretty much everything. Sometimes it becomes extremely consuming. Eventually I realize that living my life based on other people’s opinions is a complete waste of time, but I still have moments of weakness that I need to work through.

If you could be anyone for a day, who would it be?

Do fictional people count? I would love to be Mrs. Darcy aka Elizabeth Bennett for a day. Married to Mr. Darcy…yeah…I could handle that. ;-)

Shop // Blog // Twitter // Facebook // Pinterest

Thanks so much for sharing Meredith! If y'all would like to get to know Meredith more, feel free to follow one of the links listed above. 

xo.

Melisa

Girl Talk // The Colourista

Elycia is the lovely blogger of Love, Elycia. I've known her for over a year and she has been such an inspiration for me. She's so sweet, funny and completely real. I love that she's not afraid to be silly and I know that you'll just love her!

What is your job title?

I am a full-time blogger, dreamer and cat hugger. 

What do you love about yourself?

I love that I don't take myself too seriously. I like that I have a good sense of humour and can have a really good laugh at my own expense. I also love that I am kind of all over the place and that I get excited pretty easily. Basically I'm nuts and I love it.

Who is your role model?

Anyone with good follow through. I really look up to people who are pros at consistently making their good ideas a reality.

What inspires you?

Sunshine, oldies, the smell of laundry (fresh, not stinky, waiting to be washed laundry), fun colour combinations and lovely vintage toys & magazines inspire me like crazy! I would probably say that sunny days inspire me the most though. I'm about 100 times more productive on sunny days than I am on cloudy ones.  

What are 5 words that describe you?

Silly, oblivious, colourful, honest, curious

What is your biggest insecurity?

My likability. I really like to be liked and I worry about people thinking I'm too weird/not funny/annoying when I meet them. Also, along the same lines, I am pretty terrified of accidentally offending people.

If you could be anyone for a day, who would it be?

This might sound weird but I would love to be one of my kitties for the day. They are so hilarious and I want to know what goes through their little minds. Also, snoozing on the couch in the sun all day doesn't sound too bad at all. Ok, ok, if I had to choose a person I would pick Katie from Color me Katie. Her life looks so fun and colourful! 

Thanks so much for chatting with us Elycia! If y'all would like to get to know Elycia more, visit her twitter or blog. Oh, and she sells cute goodies here!

xo.

Melisa

Girl Talk // The Simple Girl

I was first introduced to Kinsey on A Beautiful Mess when she first began doing the sweetest, most inspiring DIY's! I was so happy when I found her blog and truly enjoy reading it on a daily basis. I think she is sweet and simple, and absolutely beautiful. She is a talented photographer and a true inspiration. I know you all will love her!

What is your job title?

Photographer and DIY contributor for Red Velvet Art.

What do you love about yourself?

I love that I am able to live a beautiful life, not by my own doing by any means, and that makes it all the more wonderful. I am truly blessed to share this journey with some of the most admirable people I know to exist. 

Who is your role model?

The every day heroes that dedicate their lives to helping others and have a genuine love for everyone they encounter. To me, that's truly a life worth living. 

What inspires you?

I'm constantly inspired by the hidden beauty all around us. If we truly just took the time to notice each day, we would realize we encounter inspiration at its best on a daily basis. There is something magical about the way light bounces off of objects, sound echoes off the walls, and colors blend so perfectly. I guess it's the photographer in me, but seeing that still shot of beauty captured is not only inspiring, but irreplaceable. 

What are five words that describe you?

In no particular order: adventurous, diligent, spontaneous, thoughtful, and empathetic.

What is your biggest insecurity?

I would have to say that all of my insecurities combined are a result of the same controversy; fear of failure. I try to remind myself when doubt creeps in, that to fail is but another stepping stone to success. 

If you could be anyone for a day?

I have a slight obsession with Zooey Deschanel, so I would have to go with her. The thought of someone being so  adorable, witty, beautiful, and comical should make me desperately jealous. But on the contrary, it makes me love her all the more. If not Zooey, I'd say an it is an even tie between my fictional obsessions, Rory, from Gilmore Girls, and the ever so adorable Claire, from Elizabethtown.

Thanks so much for chatting with us Kinsey! If you ladies would like to get to know Kinsey a bit better, or are in need of some fabulous DIY ideas, hop on over to her blog, or A Beautiful Mess, where she is a contributor. 

xo.

Melisa

Girl Talk // The Daydreamer

What is your job title?

jewelry and home accessory designer & blogger.

What do you love about yourself?

I love that I am who I am.  In that I mean, although I am constantly growing and changing physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually, I allow myself to grow and change into just me.  Just the girl I am supposed to be and become, not for my friends or family, or blog readers, just for me.  I think knowing ones own heart and mind is a wonderful attribute... (one reason I find my best friend so beautiful.  she is so different from me, but so just herself, and its stunning!).

Who is your role model?

My role model is hands down my mom.  She passed away four years ago from cancer and still everyday holds the crown for who I strive for in this world.  She was the kind of woman who made everyone she ever met feel like they were her good friend; feel loved.  She not only loved all people, but she loved the earth and had such an appreciation for its beauty.  She was the such a forgiver and acceptor of humanity and all its faults.  She was hilarious and childlike at times, but so graceful at others.  She showed me the meaning of hard work to live the life you dream of, perseverance in marriage through the bad times, love for your children even when at times it can be so hard, the spirit of animals and sticks and rocks, and the way to put others first.  I could literally go on for hours with what this woman means to me!!!

What inspires you?

I would say the biggest thing that inspires me is nature: feathers, stones, light, shells, textures, colors, smells, all things of nature.  Im also very inspired by colors and patterns, especially culturally inspired ones.  And when Im inspired, its always paired with some good tunes like Micah P Hinson, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell and Rocky Votolato - just to name a few.

 

What are five words that describe you?

passionate.  daydreamer.  nurturer.  nostalgic.  homebody.

What is your biggest insecurity?

Fear.  Since losing both of my parents before having children, I have big fears of having children, although I want them very much.  So I guess my insecurity would really be doubt?  The ability to successfully raise my children without having my wonderful parents by my side.  That is my current biggest personal stumbling block.

If you could be anyone for a day, who would it be?

My dad.  As hard as it might be to face, I'd like to know how he was feeling and what was in his heart.  Maybe if I could've stepped inside him on the right day, he would not have taken his own life.  (sorry I know that is really sad, but its my most honest answer).  I'll give you two answers to this one to balance this out a bit... I'd also love to be Joy Williams of The Civil Wars... to know what it feels like to sing so beautifully, and you know, to hang out with John Paul White all day would not be too bad at all ;)

I reeeeally really enjoyed reading this week's Girl Talk and have been anxiously awaiting the day I get to share it with you all. I absolutely adore Laura's honesty and openness; something I strive to be more like. Thank you so much Laura! If you all would like to continue getting to know Laura, and I 'm sure you do, feel free to visit these...

Website // Blog // Etsy // Facebook // Twitter

xo.

Melisa

GIRL TALK // The Editor

Today we have the privilege of chatting with Tori of the Editorial, yes, the very editor herself! I am so pleased to introduce you to her, as she is quite wonderful and I know you will enjoy her!

What is your job title?

Currently I'm a full time college freshman, a nanny, a YoungLife counselor, and a blogger! All of which began this year!

What do you love about yourself?

I love that I've been blessed to be born Southern. Nothin' against other places, but I think Southern girls are the best! There is nothing better than baking apple pies, wearing dresses to football games, knowing everyone you see at the store, and having big hair because you're supposed to! :)

Who is your role model?

This is a hard one. I'm fortunate enough to have so many people in my life that I can look up to, but I think the best one of them is my mother. She is one of the strongest women I know. Together, the last couple of years have been oh so hard on us. We've went through some things that no one deserves- but together, we have become so much closer and so much stronger. Without the comfort she has provided for me, I don't know where I'd be today.

Who inspires you?

When I began my blog, I thought it would have been just a bunch of ramblings no one would ever care to look at. But as my blog has grown, and as I meet more and more of the sweetest encouraging readers, mentors, and friends the blogging world has become one of the biggest inspiration for me. People like Casey Wiegand, Edie Wadsworth, and Victoria Hughes remind me that I can do whatever I please with my life. It's short, and is a one time thing- this life. I need to take advantage of it and my talents and never let my dreams drift away- even when they are bigger than the little town I live in {which is pretty often}.

What are five words that describe you?

Organized, tender-hearted, outgoing, southern, free

What is your biggest insecurity?

I hate hate hate sharing my weaknesses, but here we go! I'm always afraid I won't be enough. Maybe even more than that- being left because I wasn't enough. Not pretty enough, not nice enough, not enough of wife or mother material, not enough for someone to want to stick around.

If you could be anyone for a day?

I would for sure be Faith Hill. She seems to have a wonderful life. She is beautiful, has a great body, has a husband that adores her, and so does everyone else. She has a voice that makes me go weak in the knees. I think it would be a great day- don't you?

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Tori! And if y'all haven't quite heard enough from Miss Tori, feel free to hop on over to her blog!

xo.

Melisa