A Little Piece of You

A Piece of Rachael's Story

July 07, 2017

Meet Rachael - a 29 year old from Miami Beach, Florida. Rachael is the Fashion Director at Miansai as well as the founder and President of Style Saves. She has a passion for both philanthropy and fashion, and has used her passions to shape her career. Rachael is a true example of a hardworking and passionate woman! Thank you for sharing your incredible talents with us, Rachael!

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO RIGHT NOW? TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF!

As always, fashion and philanthropy. I’m the President and Founder of Style Saves, which is currently in the midst of our 7th annual fundraiser Swim Fashion Show planning, as well as our Back To School event where we dress over 2500 students. I’ve also taken the role of Fashion Director at Miansai, where I work directly with my fiancé, Michael Saiger - Creative Director and Founder, running the business as well as creating and producing photoshoots and content for high end fashion luxury clients.

YOUR EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE IS VREY IMPRESSIVE. WILL YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR STUDIES AT DOMUS ACADEMY IN MILAN, ITALY?

It was really an interesting time because it was before Instagram or social media was really a thing. My teachers were and still are world renown- Anna Dello Russo among others. It’s really unheard of to have that kind of one-on-one learning experience, it’s like having Ana Winter as your teacher.

YOU APPEAR TO BE VERY BUSY BETWEEN YOUR CAREER, PHILANTHROPY, AND PERSONAL LIFE! HOW DO YOU BALANCE ALL OF THIS?

I have a lot of really good help and support. I also do yoga.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GET INTO THE FASHION PR INDUSTRY WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THIS INDUSTRY?

My favorite part of the industry is using my resources to help others.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP FOUR PERSONALITY TRAITS

AMBITIOUS

CREATIVE

COMPASSIONATE

HONEST

YOUR AMBITIOUS NATURE IS PROVEN THROUGH YOUR LST OF CLIENTS THAT YOU HAVE WORKED WITH. TELL US SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES.

Favorite clients are Aventura Mall, Calvin Klein & Veuve Clicquot.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK WITH STYLE SAVES. WHAT MAKED YOU WANT TO BEGIN THIS PROJECT?

I realized that there was a void in the fashion charitable sector and realized that I would be able to utilize my network and resources to fill this niche.

WE ARE SURE EVERY DAY IS DIFFERENT - BUT WALK US THROUGH A TYPICAL DAY IN YOUR LIFE.

I always start my day with a well balanced breakfast which include a fruit smoothie and eggs with some sort of Zak the Baker bread. I usually spend the first half of my day at Miansai working on pr, strategic initiatives, design, amongst other things and then head to Style Saves warehouse in Wynwood where we plan fundraising and giveback events as well as sort donations for all upcoming initiatives/service trips. After work consists of a run on the Venetian, a home cooked meal and finally an hour long visit with the Hammam at The Standard.

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED AND INSPIRED? IS THERE A CERTAIN THING OR PLACE THAT KEEPS YOU GOING?

A double Espresso in the morning. Haha! But also more specifically making a difference and being successful.

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE THAT YOU LIVE BY, OR THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN TO OTHERS?

Nothing is impossible, as long as you work hard and focus anything is achievable.

CHECK OUT MORE FROM RACHAEL BELOW!

Website | Instagram | Style Saves

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A Piece of Tessa's Story

June 30, 2017

Meet Tessa! She is a blogger, a student, and an advocate of self-care and positivity! Tessa is going into her senior year at Grand Valley State University. She is newly engaged and looking forward to the next stage of her life while fully embracing each day that life gives her!

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO RIGHT NOW? ARE YOU IN SCHOOL, WORKING?

Right now I am traveling as much as possible, creating content based on my experiences, wedding planning, and enjoying each and every day! I love to live each day to the fullest, while embracing each moment one day at a time!

DO YOU HAVE ANY UNIQUE MORNING RITUALS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH US?

I believe morning rituals are essential every single day, and a good morning routine will help you to achieve your best self every single day! I start each morning with meditation, two cups of hot tea, and a good workout (preferably hot yoga, barre, spinning, or cardio)! After my workout, I love having a green smoothie, and planning out the day in my Erin Condren Life Planner and my Lilly Pulitzer planner! Mornings are my absolute favorite part of the day!!

YOU ARE ALWAYS ON THE GO! BETWEEN YOUR TRAVELS, BEING A STUDENT, YOUR WORK WITH YOUR BLOG, AND YOUR SORORITY...HOW DO YOU DO IT ALL?

I’m someone who thrives off of being busy, but I also enjoy having time to relax and binge watch some of my favorite shows! I believe in working hard and achieving goals, but allowing yourself to detox and to treat yourself every single day!

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED AND INSPIRED? IS THERE A CERTAIN PLACE, PERSON, OR THING THAT KEEPS YOU GOING?

My family, friends, and fiancé are by far my biggest inspiration, but also each and every individual that reads my blog! There are days where I definitely feel overwhelmed or discouraged, and it means the world to me when I am able to talk with individuals or read people’s sweet comments or messages that they send me! I wouldn’t be anywhere without every single individual who has supported me, and my blog, along this entire journey, and I am forever grateful!

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP FOUR PERSONALITY TRAITS AND WHY

DREAMER: I am constantly dreaming of the future, and future goals that I am excited to achieve! I love finding new inspiration and new places to explore, and I’m constantly dreaming about ways to further my blog while enriching my life!

LOVING: I am all about love; loving humans, loving nature, loving yourself, and loving the life that you’re living! I don’t believe in holding onto negative vibes, whether it’s a person, a job, a food, or anything else that makes me feel unhappy. I think allowing yourself to love every aspect of your life will bring you to your best self inside and out!

AMBITIOUS: I am always going after new ideas and goals, and I love taking on new adventures and challenges! I am very ambitious with my future career, the future of my blog, and with my life in general!

PASSIONATE: Sometimes I fear I may be too passionate, but there’s nothing I love more than being fully immersed into something that fuels my soul! For me that is my blog, health/wellness, my future goals and plans, and truly anything else that sparks my interest!

HOW HAS YOUR PASSION AND AMBITIOUS HELPED SHAPE YOU INTO WHO YOU ARE TODAY?

I’ve never been a quitter when it comes to something that I love and that I’m passionate about, even when there truly haven’t been enough hours in the day to finish what needs to be done. I believe my passion and ambition have helped me conquer some of my toughest battles, while also showing me it’s okay to let go of certain things in order to further succeed!

YOU SAY YOU'RE A DREAMER, WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST DREAMS AND ASPIRATIONS?

I dream of traveling the world, and allowing my mind, body and spirit to grow with each adventure! I dream of always living my best life with my best friend/fiancé, and I dream of the growth and success of my blog! I would love to one day be featured in Darling magazine (or any magazine), and to promote positivity and love to women of all ages!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING YOUR WORK FOR YOUR BLOG SIMPLY TESS? WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO START YOUR BLOG?

I have been blogging for a little over two years, and I actually started blogging because one of my friends Elizabeth had the cutest blog and I loved her content! I had always read blogs throughout my life, but I never felt like I was good enough or had good enough ideas to actually create and keep up with one! It’s the best decision I’ve ever made, and I was able to find myself through my blog which makes “Simply Tess” even more special to me!

YOUR BLOG DISCUSSES MANY THINGS, BUT ONE THAT REALLY STOOD OUT TO US WAS ABOUT PROMOTING SELF LOVE AND SELF CARE - WHAT ENCOURAGED YOU TO GO THIS DIRECTION WITH YOUR WORK?

Confidence is something I struggled with my entire life, through bullies at school and from scrutinizing my body far more than I ever should have. When I starting dating my fiancé over 5 ½ years ago, he showed me my worth and my beauty inside and out, and helped me realize that those bullies were irrelevant. 3 years ago once I started college, I was in an environment where body image was way overly saturated and I began to get discouraged once again. Thankfully my fiancé was with me every step of the way, but I also discovered the importance of self-love and self-care through books, podcasts, and YouTube videos. That began my personal journey to love myself, and every aspect of my life, and it’s something that I am very passionate about! That’s why sharing and promoting self-love on my blog is so important to me, because I hope everyone is able to find that within themselves!!

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE THAT YOU LIVE BY, OR THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN TO OTHERS?

Two of my favorite quotes of all time are;

“Positive mind, positive vibes, positive life”

and “She loved life and it loved her right back”

I believe in living my best life, and filling each day with positive vibes and endless love! Start each day with a grateful heart, with a mentality to conquer whatever is thrown at you, and share happiness and compliments to anyone you encounter! Focusing on feeling good inside and out through wellness and fitness, and treat yourself to your favorite things to stay balanced! Life is as beautiful as you make it, so let it flourish!

CHECK OUT MORE FROM TESSA BELOW!

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

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A Piece of Rachel's Story

June 23, 2017

Meet Rachel, a 24 year old Grand Rapid's resident, who created her own business Happiness from Scratch. Rachel inspires and encourages others to live a happier and healthier lifestyle! Thanks for sharing your story with us Rachel!

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO RIGHT NOW? ARE YOU IN SCHOOL, WORKING?

At the moment I am sitting on a porch looking at a snow-capped mountain listening to Fleetwood Mac and sipping a strong cup of coffee, cheers to being on vacation! If we are talking bigger picture I have started my own Health Coaching business called, Happiness From Scratch where I guide my clients towards a healthier, happier life through areas such as nutrition, stress management and disease prevention. If I am not health coaching you can find me at my second job at Bare Minerals, creating recipes for my Instagram page or searching for a new coffee shop to try.

WHAT IS YOUR DAILY ROUTINE DO YOU HAVE ANY UNIQUE MORNING RITUALS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH US?

I usually wake up at 7* (unless I snooze..) then go to the gym right away. After that it’s breakfast time which is usually a smoothie or big bowl filled with veggies and an egg. Now for some client sessions to go over their health and life goals! Then I head over to a local coffee shop to try and do work but end up getting distracted and listen to new music, drink a latte` and people watch). Later in the day I am off to my second job at Bare Minerals where I get to play with makeup and meet new people. After this long day I finally get to go home and catch up with my hilarious roommates, watch some Netflix and finally…sleep. Interesting rituals.. I can’t go a day without lemon water, homemade essential oil sprays and facetiming someone.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOUR WORK WITH HAPPINESS FROM SCRATCH?

As a health coach I truly love what I do, I get to create deeper relationships with people and learn about their goals, fears and passions. My favorite thing about what I do is seeing the transformation in people from when we first start working with each other to our last session. I get overwhelmed with joy when I hear someone reached their health goals or accomplished something we have been working on for months.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SOURCE OF INSPIRATION?

My biggest source of inspiration comes from wanting to live a long healthy life and helping others achieve that as well. I am constantly trying to find new recipes, exercises, ideas and strategies to help myself and my clients create a healthier life. I follow a lot of health and fitness Instagramers such as “Shut The Kale Up” and “Sarah’s Day” to get inspiration for new meals and workouts.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP FOUR PERSONALITY TRAITS AND WHY

FUNNY: I love seeing, hearing and making people laugh! When I make others laugh it brings me so much joy to know I was able to bring happiness to their life. One of my favorite things to do is to tell stories, I love telling people about my weird daily encounters or past experiences with a little extra flare. Life is way too short not to laugh at the little things and have fun!

HARD WORKING: I grew up on a ranch in Colorado where the quote “we’re burin’ daylight” really meant something. I would be up when the sun rose to take care of animals, fix fence, haul hay and a long list of other things that needed to be done. I watched my dad work endless hours without complaining once, this is where I learned the true meaning of hard work. In my day to day life now I always have to be working on something whether that be health coaching, blogging or just cleaning my room; I am highly motivated by productivity or I feel as though I am burnin’ daylight.

EASY GOING: Life is way too short to take things too seriously or get worked up over the small stuff. Plans change, things don’t go your way, you wore your short inside out all day.. hey don’t sweat it. I find that people stress themselves out too much by overthinking or over planning instead of just letting life take control. When you just relax and have fun life gets a lot easier.

ENCOURAGING: As a Health Coach I need to motivate my clients to reach their goals, being supportive and encouraging is one of the ways I do this. I find that using your own strengths to help others creates symbiosis, it allows both people to succeed. When I encourage others it comes from an honest and genuine place because I truly want to see someone grow and succeed.

EXPLAIN HOW YOUR HARD WORKING AND ENCOURAGING PERSONALITY HELPED INFLUENCE WHO YOU ARE TODAY.

Having a hard-working personality trait has given me the drive to create my own business and work towards a career that is still new in the health field. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to create a business that you truly love and are excited to wake up and do. I have an encouraging personality which helps in my client sessions, but I also try and carry that into self-encouragement and not let myself get down if things don’t work out. When creating your own business, or starting a new job there are a lot of moments that will feel as though you have failed or should quit, but if you keep encouraging yourself and working hard you will reach your goals.

HOW DO YOU USE YOUR HUMOR AND EASY GOING TRAITS IN YOUR DAILY LIFE?

I love to laugh and to make others laugh, it creates a more relaxed environment so people can feel comfortable to be themselves. I use humor in my daily life to get to know someone and build their trust whether that be with clients or with my friends. Being easy going helps create a relaxed atmosphere so no one feels stressed or overwhelmed especially during client sessions.

IF YOU COULD DESIGN THE PERFECT DAY, WHAT WOULD IT ENTAIL FROM MORNING TO NIGHT?

Ahh the perfect day.. I would wake up early (early enough to hear the birds and smell the fresh air) get in a good workout, then make a cup of coffee and enjoy it on the front porch. I would then have a couple client sessions hearing all about the goals they have reached and life updates. I love getting brunch so next I would invite an old friend to try a new restaurant and catch up with them. Afternoons are for relaxing outside or going for a horseback ride, then in the evening I would invite some good friends out for beer and tacos (guilty pleasure) laughing and letting the night lead us into an unforgettable memory.

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE THAT YOU LIVE BY, OR THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN TO OTHERS?

If it brings you joy do it, if it doesn’t.. don’t.

CHECK OUT MORE FROM RACHEL BELOW!

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

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A Piece of Sarah's Story

June 22, 2017

Meet Sarah, a current student at Costal Carolina University in South Carolina. Sarah is a fitness and wellness coach who has the additional obstacle of type one diabetes Sarah's story is truly inspiring - thanks for sharing!

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO RIGHT NOW? ARE YOU IN SCHOOL, WORKING?

I am currently a full time college student at Coastal Carolina University, majoring in marketing! In addition to school, I work part time ( but some days feels like full time) as the founder of StrongHER Dynasty.

BEING A HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACH, YOU HAVE TO BE BOTH MENTALLY AND PHYICALLY STRONG. TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR ROUTINE ON HOW YOU DO SO.

I am a full time college student first and a health and fitness coach second but they both feed into each other’s success. My schoolwork and obligations will always trump my health and fitness coaching because that’s what’s important to me! But again, if it’s important to you, you will figure out a way! Stay up a little later, get up a little earlier! I love health and fitness because it not only makes your body strong but it also helps with your mental status. If I am in the middle of studying and can’t focus, I will go knock out a workout and feel so much more alive, focused and ready to crush whatever task is in front of me! The discipline of college has feed into my success as a health and fitness coach, I make my own deadlines and have benchmarks that need to be met just like you would in a college course!

HOW DO YOU FIND TIME (OR BALANCE YOUR TIME) TO HAVE SUCH A HEALTHY AND ACTIVE LIFESTYLE ALONG WITH ALL OF YOUR OTHER OBLIGATIONS?

We all are given the same number of hours in a day, so it’s not making the time for activities, it’s finding the time for them! People always ask me how I keep it all straight and the real answer is, I DON’T. A ton of the things on my to do list don’t get done each day and it’s okay. For me, I have to use a planner to stay organized otherwise half the day will be gone and I will not have anything done! Organization is SO important in my life!

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE THIS HEALTH AND WELLNESS PROGRAM? WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM IT?

Type one diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the pancreas no longer produces the beta cells that your body needs to break down food and drink to use for energy. With t1d, you have to use an alternative form of insulin via an insulin pump or multiple daily injections. For people with type one diabetes, good blood sugar controls are everything. A long time after being diagnosed almost 14 years ago, I didn't think exercising with type one diabetes was a realistic goal. It wasn’t until I had finally had enough with my college diet and bad habits that I knew I had no option so I had to figure out the balancing act. When I first started, I went to the gym with my boyfriend but I would end up with a low blood sugar; that means that you need to eat or drink to raise the blood sugar or you will pass out. Kinda counter productive don't ya think? I used to watch videos on YouTube that were short in time but the workouts were so effective plus I was able to do them at home! That was exactly what I needed; I had all my low blood sugar snacks in my cabinets, didn't have to worry about driving anywhere, my CGM and water were only steps away! it was perfect!

I had a feeling that maybe I wasn't the only t1d that felt like they were stuck between working out and not working due to blood sugars. I had finally found a safe and healthy way to exercise and i wanted to share that!

Working with other t1d’s and just others in general has thought me a lot. Everyone comes from different paths in life and brings different perspectives and ideas to the table! My dad always says “you learn something new everyday”.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP FOUR PERSONALITY TRAITS AND WHY

AMBITIOUS: Being a type one diabetic effect every aspect of your life, it slows you down sometimes but you have to remember that those are speed bumps, not stop signs. Just because it takes a little bit longer does not mean give up! This has in return played into every aspect of my life, I knew I could never settle for ordinary. I am a go all in or don't go in at all kind of gal, so everything I do is 100000% or 0%.

HARDWORKING: I have never been the smartest, or the most prepared. I have however always found a way to make it work, I think that goes hand in hang with being ambitious. If you want it you will figure out a way!

STRONG: Again, with type one diabetes, you have no other choices but to be strong. You live in a body that is constantly trying to kill itself. There are no off days, no rest days or giving up.

PASSIONATE: I am passionate about things that can help others! Advocacy for type one diabetes, so that one day will have a cure! Heath and fitness, to give others to feeling of taking their own lives back! Fashion and accessories because everyone should be able to express themselves For me, I like being the brightest person in the room.

YOU ARE AMBITIOUS AND HARDWORKING HOW DID THOSE TRAITS HELP YOU START AND GROW STRONGHER DYNASTY?

I was never the type of girl that had a million girlfriend in fact I typically had one good friend and that was it. It was more so about quality than quantity for me. After high School I moved out of my small town in Maryland to find something greatest then what was offered there. I knew no one, and to me that was SO scary but I knew I needed to do it. I moved 400 miles away to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. There i found roommates and a few friends but they were never “my people” you know the ones that you just click with, you can finish each other's sentences and you just get?! I wanted those people in my life that would love the things I loved and hated the things I hated. I founded StrongHER Dynasty because I knew I needed help, I couldnt changed all the lives by myself and if I was putting out what I wanted in a friend that maybe by some miracle (miracle being the internet) I’d find my tribe. After A few short months, I started to realize that it was working. I was finding genuine, kind, and thoughtful people but not only for fitness and health but for every aspect of life. They were the people you wanted to surround yourself with! Through all the trials and errors, I've learned that you have to put out, what you want to receive!

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED? IS THERE SOMETHING IN PARTICULAR THAT KEEPS YOU GOING?

Well I get out of bed in the morning because I typically have to pee, or my insulin pump is out of insulin. ;) Keeping my health on track so that I am able to live a long healthy life gets me up and continuing this lifestyle. I know if I don't live healthy now, I won't be living healthy later. Not only will it help me later but it helps almost every aspect of my life now. I feel better when I live this way.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR WORK WITH STRONGHER DYNASTY?

I love helping others see their full potential. When I start working with girls, a lot of them don't have confidence in themselves, I am that person until they do. I want everyone to feel like they are worth something!

IF YOU COULD DESIGN A PERFECT DAY FROM MORNING TO NIGHT, WHAT WOULD IT ENTAIL?

Nothing specific - just a day without type one diabetes.

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE THAT YOU LIVE BY, OR THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN TO OTHERS?

Just keep going. There is going to be good days and there is going to be bad days. You weren't put here for life to be easy. You are going to have to find some GRIT.

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A Piece of Allyson's Story

June 09, 2017

Meet Allyson, a full time student, part time bridal consultant, avid traveler and lifestyle blogger! She has big dreams of working in a big time fashion house. With many things to juggle, Allyson is always on the go. Thanks for sharing your story with us Allyson!

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO RIGHT NOW? ARE YOU IN SCHOOL, WORKING?

I am currently a full time student going into my senior year at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan. I am studying Hospitality and Tourism Management with an emphasis in event management with big dreams of becoming an event planner. While in school, I work part time as a bridal stylist at Bianka Bridal in downtown Grand Rapids. Through this job, my love for the bridal fashion industry was developed and has truly flourished. Last Fall, I had the opportunity to attend New York Bridal Fashion Week with my Bianka Bridal girls and ever since I have dreamed of becoming a Fashion Week event coordinator.

WERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 5 YEARS FROM NOW?

Five years from now I see myself working full time for a fashion house planning events throughout the year, like launch parties and even Fashion Week. I love being able to show my creativity with events, and fashion week is truly where that can come alive. I would also love to see my blog, A Touch Of Tulle, grow and be a full time blogger, continuing to document my favorite things in life (fashion, travel, day to day happenings).

HOW DO YOU FIND BALANCE BETWEEN BEING IN COLLEGE, HAVING A JOB, BLOGGING, AS WELL AS A SOCIAL LIFE?

I sometimes feel like my life runs at 150 miles per hour every day, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Being busy keeps me sane. For school, I try to have all of my classes on just Monday’s and Wednesday’s. They tend to be longer days, usually starting around 8am and ending around 9pm, but it works for me because I then have more time during the week to work and see my friends. I work at Bianka Bridal at least three days a week, but my coworkers are all my best friends so it never really feels like work. We basically get to play dress up with some of the most beautiful gowns and accessories all the time. Since writing has always been one of my passions, I try to set time aside for blogging whenever I can. Whether it’s in between classes, before or after work, or late at night when I should be fast asleep. I also plan ahead for several posts so that I know exactly what days I will need off, and what exactly I will be doing/wearing. As for my social life, I try my best to have time for my friends during the week when I am not in class or working and on the weekends. We love to grab coffee or even go to the Downtown Market for a quick bite to eat and catch up. Any chance I get to spend time with them I do!

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR BLOG A TOUCH OF TULLE? WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF HAVING A BLOG?

Like I mentioned before, writing has always been one of my biggest passions. I considered pursuing a degree in Journalism or English Literature early on in school, but I decided that having my own blog was a better choice. I can write what I want, when I want and I love it. I love sharing with my friends and family my favorite things of my life, including my everyday style, travels abroad, and my lifestyle. I recently began creating my own tulle skirts and showcasing them on my blog, so I would say that my favorite part would be the support and connection I receive from my readers. Each day, I want to learn and grow more as a blogger and young designer and my readers definitely encourage that passion.Though I have experienced many struggles throughout my life, from my parent’s ugly divorce when I was in junior high and high school, to unforeseen set backs with things like school and my health, I continue to stay strong and trust that God has a set plan for me. From time to time, I will have those little breakdowns, but I know how to pick myself up and move on. I also know that I have amazing friends and family that have my back at any given moment, which keep me feeling strong and fiercely ready to take on the world.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP FOUR PERSONALITY TRAITS AND WHY

DREAMER: As a kid, I was constantly daydreaming; my family called it “Ally Land.” But it was mainly just me trying to make my perfect world a reality. Now, as an almost-college-graduate, I still find myself daydreaming, but for completely different things. I dream about having the perfect job someday, the perfect family, and the perfect life traveling the world. I know that with hard work, I can make those dreams come true, and that’s exactly what I plan to do.

COMPASSIONATE: I’m a very emotional person naturally, so I tend to be the most compassionate person in any situation. From something as simple as giving to those in need, to trying to help and understand the heartache that a close friend is enduring. I always try to put myself in someone else's shoes, and treat people the way I would want to be treated if I were in their same situation. I was taught that kindness is key and I try to throw it around like confetti.

LOYAL: I am loyal to myself first and foremost. I remain true to my personal values and beliefs even in the most difficult situations. I am also loyal to my family. My brother and my dad are two of the best people in my life. I would do absolutely anything for them, just as they would for me. I am also loyal to my friends and boyfriend of several years. I would do anything for them. Often, I am the shoulder to cry on or the ear that listens to many of my closest friends and I would not have it any other way. I consider myself very loyal, and I know that the people in my life do as well!

STRONG: Though I have experienced many struggles throughout my life, from my parent’s ugly divorce when I was in junior high and high school, to unforeseen set backs with things like school and my health, I continue to stay strong and trust that God has a set plan for me. From time to time, I will have those little breakdowns, but I know how to pick myself up and move on. I also know that I have amazing friends and family that have my back at any given moment, which keep me feeling strong and fiercely ready to take on the world.

SO YOU SAY THAT YOU ARE A DREAMER, WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST DREAMS AND ASPIRATIONS?

My biggest dream is to simply live a happy life. Working with events truly brings joy to my life, so I want to work as an event planner for a high end fashion house or bridal fashion designer. I want to be the person behind the scenes of the parties and the fashion shows making everything come alive. I love to be creative and I also love organizing things so I feel that fashion is the perfect medium for that! Another one of my aspirations is to be able to travel the world on my own time. I have always had a desire to explore, and I want the same for my future.

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED? IS THERE SOMETHING IN PARTICULAR THAT KEEPS YOU GOING?

My future self is who keeps me motivated. I want to be a better me every single day, so my role model is actually me in ten years. She is someone who has her life together and is happy and that is who I aspire to be. Once I reach that age, my next role model is me in ten more years. This idea causes me to stay focused and motivated in reaching higher for my goals for myself every single day.

IT APPEARS THAT YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN EUROPE - WHAT ARE YOU DOING OVER THERE?

Like I said before, I am in love with traveling so any time I get the chance to be experience new cultures, I take it. As a GVSU student, I was given the opportunity to travel to the south of France and work the Cannes Film Festival to learn more about high profile events. I had such an amazing time getting to know more about the events industry, as well as networking with individuals in the film industry as well. I even got to walk the red carpet with a few celebrities! After the festival, I returned to one of my favorite cities, Paris, for a few days, and then enjoyed exploring Malága, Spain with one of my best friends.

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE THAT YOU LIVE BY, OR THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN TO OTHERS?

“Life is what you make it.” I choose to live my life with positivity and take every moment I’m given and live it to the fullest.

CHECK OUT MORE FROM ALLYSON BELOW!

Website | Instagram| Facebook

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