During our weekend away, we had a lot of time to talk. And…we talked a lot. Of course, we chatted about what restaurants we wanted to try out, trends we were keeping an eye out for while shopping, and when it was really, really time for happy hour. But our best talks were the ones that went below these surface level conversations — what goals we’re setting for the next year, what we struggled with last year, advice to one another about how to overcome these issues and support in how to not only reach, but surpass these goals. These conversations inspired us in more way than one. We realized that if these types of conversations were so helpful and memorable between the two of us — how amazing would it be if we created a little community of gals who value the same thing?
Hence, the creation of #darlinggirltalk, a new series where we’ll get real with you, and hope that you’ll do the same with us.
We’re starting with a Q&A to kick it off, covering some of our everyday highs and lows —
What has been the most challenging thing about starting the blog?
H: I think, going into it, we both knew it was going to be a big project to take on, integrate into our lives, and keep up with it to the level that we wanted. Regardless, it was still a challenge to balance this extra work with everything else going on in our lives. Fortunately, we both love the work! So even though it might cut into our sleep schedule, we’re still love what we’re doing.
A: The hardest thing was honestly just starting it, deciding to post it and get it off the ground. You can always make excuses for not doing something, and we all say we’re “too busy” and make excuses. But, the truth is we’re always busy and if you’re passionate about about your side gig, you’ll find the time and it will definitely be worth it!
What has been the most rewarding thing about starting the blog?
H: We’ve talked about this a few times, and I still stand by our past answers completely. We’ve become closer than ever (who knew it was possible!) and have meet the most amazing community of bloggers — local and across the world. But another thing that I’ve been thinking about recently, we’ve really proved to ourselves how much we can achieve when we push ourselves. We started this blog with the mindset, “let’s just give it our best shot and put it out there.” It leaves room for lots of trial and error, and lessons learned from experience…but we’ve continued to see the this mindset of fearlessly working as hard as we can play in our favor. Not only for our blog, but how it reflects onto the rest of our lives, as well!
A: Like Haley said, we’ve talked a lot about this over the last nine months. It’s hard to say what the single most rewarding thing has been, so I’ll give you my three most rewarding things. The first is our friendship. Business with a bestie is always a risky venture, but it’s strengthened, challenge and pushed our relationship to a whole new level and it’s fun to share in success with someone you’re already so close to and rooting for. The second thing is that it’s amazing to have something that is ours – something we are so proud of and ultimately have total control in. It’s success and failure is all ours, and that feels so great. Lastly, I love that it’s pushed me to truly embrace all the beauty around me.
Where do you find inspiration?
H: I’m a very visual person, so I often turn to magazines, pinterest, designspiration, or the local art museum when I need a quick jolt of creative inspiration. Just getting outside can work wonders as well.
A: I work in PR, so all day, everyday is spend online reading articles, scrolling through Twitter, writing, listening to podcasts and spent in brainstorms. I love looking to other creatives and successful entrepreneurs when in need of a little inspiration. My favorite blogs are Who What Wear, MyDomaine, Damsel in Dior, and my one of my favorite podcasts is Millions by Clare O’Connor, although there hasn’t been a new podcast in a few months.
H: That reminds me…music, too! Spotify playlists have been helping me through some especially hard work weeks recently. (If you haven’t listened to the “Who Run The World?” playlist at some point, you need to.)
Okay, I’ve had a tough week and really need to hit the reset button and regain some motivation, what should I do?
H: Call someone — your best friend, your mom, your sister…anyone who will let you vent for a few minutes. Then, get moving. Go for a run, take a spin class, whatever your exercise of choice it. Take a long bath or hot shower. Pour yourself a glass of wine, and put on your go-to chick flick.
So, now what? How do I take this new energy and make it last beyond 10 am?
A: Starting the day with a clear head, and on my own terms is increasingly important for me. It’s so easy to immediately check email, Instagram and get lost in everything you need to do for the day, but the best thing you can do is start the day however makes you the most happy. For some, that’s a hot yoga class or a cup of coffee in front of the morning news, or maybe you treat yourself to a fancy latte on your way into work. Whatever it is, make sure you prioritize yourself and practice self love first thing in the morning. And then do your best not to let anyone take that away from you.
Thanks for following along our first girl talk session! We would love to hear your answers to any of the above questions in the comments.
XX,
H & A
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