December 31st.
Wow 2014! Where do I begin?
Hot Chocolate in hand and time to review how sweet you were…
WORK:
At the start of the year, I’ve changed my career completely and became a self-employed Social Media & Digital Communications Consultant, which is the best decision I’ve ever made! Started off with one client and now managing a range of various businesses from catering, property, health and fashion to festivals with big names like Human League (I have a musical background)! It’s only when I write it all out I realise how far I’ve come… Yes, knowing the right people helps, but it’s even better when you’re recommended, right? PS! Follow my fun over the NYE with Human League on Twitter or better, come and join me in Stonehaven for some Hogmanay fun (sorry, can’t stop working)!
BLOGGING:
From doing my 3rd ever product review in January 2014 (I’ve only been blogging for 1.5 yrs), to working with some of my favourite brands such as Rag and Bone, French Connection, L. K. Bennett, Kate Spade, Levi’s, Lola & Grace, Pull & Bear, VILA, DUO Boots, Todd Lynn & Mooi and many more – I’m kind of speechless! And yes, for some this may not seem like a a big deal, but I’ve worked hard and so proud to have been recognised for all my achievements. Remember I was one of four Herald Fashion “Blogger of the Year” finalists earlier this year?
But that’s not all… I’ve learnt so much about running my own business (with so much more to learn). I learnt how supportive my partner and family are with my blog and work, and I’m ever so grateful for their time, support and their trust in me. I really couldn’t have do it without them. Gosh, it’s like I’m receiving an Oscar here, dry your eyes out Tatyana!
And all of you girls, who have sent me private messages asking for advice and simply sharing your journey and how you were inspired by my blog – thank you, your thoughts and comments are so important to me! I do it all for you…
Bloggers can often come across almost so perfect all the time online. Things they share on their social media, their always so perfect looking hair, skin, life… For me, blogging has encouraged me to speak up about my “imperfections” for instance my acne and acne scarring battle I’ve been suffering and feeling self-conscious for over 10 years now. I’ve even made a VIDEO (with more to come) about it, which I hope helps others with similar issues.
FASHION:
But here’s why we’re all here for – FASHION! We love to escape from work for a few minutes and connect with people who share the same style and taste in fashion don’t we? Plus if those people find the perfect-looking coat, model it for us, tell us a bit about their day and life and provide us with the link to buy the bargain, then that’s like shopping on a whole new level! This is why I started Secret little Stars in the beginning – I’ve realised that as a young mum I must encourage other mums and mums-to-be and all the girls to remain true to their own style and fashion tastes, as well as remind myself that I don’t need to be “labelled” in our society and must be whoever I want to be. Blogging has helped me do that, and I urge anyone thinking of starting a blog or any other business idea they’ve had on their mind to just go for it. If you you’re scared about making the wrong decision, how are you going to know it’s right if you never make it? You have no idea how much your life changes when you break some of those societal barriers we’re used to be worrying about every day! If you want to take a selfie in the middle of the street and post it on Facebook – do it! Who cares what everyone thinks? They all secretly want to do it too, but worry too much about what everyone else thinks!
2015:
I think about the New Year ahead and can’t stop feeling excited about it. I don’t know why, but I just feel some of my huge dreams are going to come true in 2015! But since I’m a little superstitious – I’ll only share them once they do! I know, weirdo… What I do know for sure, is that I’m really excited to work even harder in the New Year and with the help of my new representative / agent (Handpicked), I see a lot of exciting things happening on the blogging front for me.
But above all, comes my family and I’m just so grateful that I’ve managed to build my working life in such a way which makes me available to my loved ones at any time they need me. Who knows, maybe I’ll be partnering up with someone else in 2015 in my working life? Time will tell…
But for now, Happy New Year to all my lovely followers, readers, occasional visitors, family, clients and friends for making my 2014 so AMAZING! Here’s to an amazing 2015! Hope you enjoyed some of my favourite moments / looks of 2014!
Big Love!
Tatyana xxx