2016 has been a year of extremes – the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.
As another year comes to a close, I like to look back at it in two parts: the first is a collection of my favorite blog posts. Some got lost in the mix and deserve to be dusted off, while others have helpful advice I think you’ll enjoy…or are just fun to look at.
While this blog has always had an underlying creative focus with a special love of design, one subject doesn’t make up an entire person (or audience) so I’ve included a variety of posts below, from creative insights to personal stories to style to travel.
Let’s get started!
CREATIVE INSIGHTS
1. Do It For The Love
Not everything needs to be done for monetary gain or fame. Whatever happened to doing something purely because you love it?
2. External Validation and Remembering That You’re Good Enough
With so much time spent online these days, it’s easy to fall into the trap of seeking external validation, which is a bottomless pit.
3. Show Up and Do the Work
There is no quick fix…the one way to get what you want out of life is to do the work.
4. Being Different Is Good
You’ll never stand out by following the crowd.
5. Give Yourself Time To Just…Be.
It’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out. The truth? Nobody really does.
6. 5 Tips to Update Your Design Portfolio
Portfolios are never really done — here are some ideas to freshen yours up.
7. 5 Tips For Getting Comfortable With Staying No
Saying no is something I still struggle with! How about you?
8. Overcoming The Pull Between Creativity and Criticism
Criticism can make us feel small and stop sharing. Don’t give into the negativity.
9. What’s Your Story?
Tell your audience who you are and exactly what you stand for. They’ll respect you even more.
10. An Inside Look at the First 3 Years Of Running a Creative Business
When I decided to build my own design studio from scratch, I had no idea what I was in for.
11. The Benefit of Longer Term Self-initiated Projects
Show potential clients what you’re capable of.
12. 10 Tips to Land Your Ideal Job
The perfect job doesn’t usually land in your lap but with some effort, you can make it happen.
13. 5 things To Share On Your Instagram Account
When you’re feeling stumped over what to share, these tips will get you going.
14. Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number
People avoid doing all sorts of things because they feel too old. The truth is, your age is an asset.
PERSONAL STORIES
15. Cheers To 9 Years!
Blogging changed my life for the better. 9 years in, I’m still going!
16. Thoughts on Friendship
Friendship as an adult is harder than I remember it as a child. Here’s how I feel about the subject.
17. My Palm Springs Vow Renewal
Joey and I celebrated our wedding anniversary in our favorite home away from home!
18. Fear and The Mountain
My irrational fear is heights. Sometimes, you just have to climb the damn mountain.
TRAVEL
19. The Mini Guide to Marrakech
This Summer, I visited Marrakech for six wonderful days. Here’s a guide of what to see and do.
20. Out & About: Bar Luce
Wes Anderson designed this 50s-inspired pastel colored cafe in Milan. So magical!
21. What to See, Do and Eat in Palm Springs
My ultimate Palm Springs travel guide (and probably the most popular post this year).
22. New York City Guide: 20 Things To Do
Need some quick and easy ideas for your next visit to the Big Apple? I’ve got you covered!
FASHION & PERSONAL STYLE
23. Style Direction: Desert Rose
A rose-covered departure from my usual monochromatic style, shot in the middle of the Nevada desert.
24. What I Wore: Big Hats, Smokey Eyes and Leopard Print
An early Summer adventure with Made U Look (and my favorite style shoot of the year).
25. A Tattooed Dress In The Desert
Ah, the glorious beauty of Joshua Tree! I love that desert light.
Enjoy — and I’ll be back later with a look back at the year.
Lots of love,
Shauna