Behind the Blogger: Rachel of Rachel's Lookbook

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1) When & why did you start blogging?

 I started blogging in November of 2011. After college, I felt like I was limited in my creativity at work, so I wanted to start something where I could channel my creativity through two of my passions: writing and fashion. I was going to look into writing some pieces for local magazines or newspapers, but my boyfriend suggested I start a blog. Later that night, we sat down and worked out all the details, beginning with buying rachelslookbook.com. It is kind of crazy how it all came together because before that I didn’t really understand what a blog was!

2) What’s the greatest thing that’s come out of blogging?

 Meeting new people and being a part of such a supportive community. It can be really hard to explain to people in real life, but some of the connections I’ve made through blogging have been amazing. I’ve also met bloggers in real life who have become some of my best friends! It can also be really cool to work with brands you’ve admired for years.

3) When you’re not blogging, what can you be found doing?

Hanging out with my boyfriend and pup, grabbing drinks or coffee with friends or lifting in the gym! This summer, hopefully taking advantage of being outdoors more.

4) If you were stranded on a desert island, what would be the one thing you would take with you?

A boat!!!!!! That way I could enjoy my time alone on the island and then I could leave when I want!

5)What’s the one piece of advice you would share with bloggers just starting out? 

 Have fun with it! It doesn’t matter what the reason for starting your blog is, business or personal reasons, having fun with your blog will help your personality shine through and keep you motivated. Putting yourself out there, even if it is by choice, can be a very scary thing to do, but if you are passionate and love the content you are producing, chances are others will love it as well! Also, connect with bloggers similar to you through social media and by interacting with their blog content. It will help give you exposure and help you build a network of supportive bloggers.

6) What’s your “can’t live without” piece in your closet, kitchen,  home etc?

 My Celtic ring. I purchased the ring in Dublin while I was traveling during my study abroad experience. It represents one of the best times I’ve ever had. Studying abroad was amazing for many reasons, but I feel like it was when I finally became an adult and started making decisions for me, rather than trying to please everyone else. I wear my ring every day and it reminds me to stay true to myself.

7) On a Friday night, what can you be found doing?

It varies a lot from week to week, but lately, it has been at home on my couch with my boyfriend and pup watching TV or movies. We either make a nice dinner or order in pizza. I like to have a beer or a glass of wine in hand too! 

8) How do you balance blogging with a work/social life?

 I definitely don’t have a great balance between blogging and socializing. It seems I focus on blogging for three months and then take a three month break with a random post here and there. While going through blogging spurts like this isn’t the best way to maintain an audience, I feel like I’ve made so many great connections that people are still supportive when I come back to blogging on a more regular basis. I think blogging is something I will do for years to come, but personally I believe it shouldn’t take precedence over your social life unless you are doing it as a full-time job. Sometimes it is important to take a break from the computer screen or your phone and live in the moment! (For me that means staying OFF of Instagram)

9) What’s your favorite quote? Or what’s a quote that describes you?

    "I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious ambiguity." –Glinda Radner. What can I say, it is an amazing quote, and a good reminder that not everything goes according to plan. As a perfectionist, it can be hard to let go of things and be spontaneous, but I always end up having the most fun when I just go with the flow!

10) What’s your dream job if you haven’t landed it yet?

  That’s a good question! Honestly, I would love to combine all of my passions into one job (that includes writing, fashion, beauty and chemistry) but I’m not quite sure what that would be yet. I envision myself starting my own business, what exactly that business is I don’t know, but I’ll get there further along in my career. For now, I’m just working hard and trying to learn new things as often as I can.

11) Guilty pleasures?

  Pretty Little Liars and nachos. I’m not a sweets person, but give me salty foods and I CANNOT STOP. And nachos are definitely my biggest weakness.

12) What’s your favorite “little thing” in life?

  love rain and thunderstorms – I am insanely happy just listening to rain. Also, some of the best nights are spent cuddling on the couch.