Greetings Everyone!
It’s Friday and I completed my Faux Leather Cardigan. However, I am on the video editing phase for this project. Thank you in advance for your patience as that always take time.
While putting my outfits together for this project, I envisioned my lifestyle and all the daily/weekly/yearly responsibilities I had. During this particular outfit session, I had a flashback of a meeting I had a year ago with a fellow friend in the Fashion Industry, David Dang. He had shared that not everyone is my audience and I had to get to know my audience well – where they shop, places they hang out, how they live, what their professions are, etc. I didn’t have the answers back then, but it occurred to me recently. I hope to express some of it through my outfit stories…
Red Faux Leather Cardigan
When I decided to step out of my comfort zone a couple of years ago, I had the opportunity to meet some amazing women and each had a unique story. I met them at bridal events, networking events, fashion events, and some are my closest friends and family. Their stories fascinated me. I was amazed by their passion, determination, and generous hearts. They were Brides-to-be, Wives, Mothers, Dreamers, Singles, and Women of faith. I was able to relate to some ladies more than others. They were the Youtique Bride or lived the Youtique Lifestyle.
Bride-to-be. I too was a bride-to-be. As much as I wanted to plan the wedding myself, I needed help. I had concerns and worries of planning a wedding so I hired a wedding planner. She helped set up meetings with different vendors while I got to focus on designing and sewing my wedding dress. If I could, I would DIY everything. I enjoy going to the fabric and craft stores and allow my imagination to wonder. However, I also had to be realistic and remember my time limitations. I am thankful for family and friends who helped make my wedding day extra special. Many thanks to my Aunt Kimmie who made my wedding veil.
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Date Night Outfit: More than one way to wear my Color Block Tee & A-line Skirt
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Date Night Outfit: Altered Belt worn over the cardigan
Wife. I too had to learn how to be a wife and manage the home. Over the years, my cluttered and messy home slowly became more organized and clean (thank goodness for more cleaner days than messy;). I learned how to simplify, build routines, shopped for the best quality I can afford so things will last longer. I learned that quality does not always mean a higher price tag. Often, I want to make sure things had more than one use and purpose. I work alongside my husband as an equal to build a strong family foundation. When I am weak, my husband is strong. When he is weak, I am strong. That helps us to grow together and learn from one another. We build each other up. We work as one. I want to thank my friend John Tran for sharing this bible scripture with me years ago on “The Good Wife.” Proverbs 31
Motherhood. I too understand motherhood. I want to provide my children the best education and life experiences I can afford. I also want to make sure they felt loved and cared for yet allow for some growing pains. I pray daily for their future, development of their gifts so I can help guide them in their purpose. I understand that I will never be the perfect parent but I am giving it my all as a parent. And although I try my best to have healthy meals, I give into fast foods once in awhile because of music lessons or after school activities. Each year, I readjust my schedule for teacher meetings, school events, recitals, etc. I learned the best time to grocery shop and how to modify recipes to make it quick and healthy. My children may not always like the food I make but it’s ok. We are thankful to have more than enough and life will go on.
Dreamers. I too have a dream. When I first started, I didn’t know what I was doing. I just had a dream, passion, and drive. I had put together my first business plan and it would be modified several times over the years. I worked overtime when it wasn’t necessary because I wanted my dreams to become reality. I had sleepless nights because business ideas would fill my head. I would fail many times but I was relentless because I knew a few victories will follow. I did not want to give up (although the idea would often come). I was always in learning mode and tried to figure things out. Eventually, I would learn how to manage the business finances and develop the operating systems. I still have so much to learn but I am thankful for friends who went before me and helped mentor me.
Meetings Outfit : Floral Dress with Boots
Grocery shopping, Car rider line, parent/teacher meetings, quick errands : sleeveless chambray blouse
Singles. I too was once single searching for a life partner. I did not want just any life partner, but the right life partner for me. I learned that superficial qualities does not mean a quality husband. I prayed for the right person to come into my life and he eventually did. He only came after I took the time to learn more about myself and gave myself the respect I deserved. However, I would like to also talk about the widows and single mothers I met. This group of women leave me awestruck. In the most challenging times, they persevere. They may be tired but they use every ounce of their energy to make things happen. They are resourceful. They are builders. They are able to work with what they have. It appears they can make something out of nothing. They rely on hope and build up other women because they understand the challenges. I see their victories even when they don’t see it, maybe because they are exhausted.
Women of Faith. I too am a woman of faith. I rely on God because he is my provider, my strength, and my salvation. He created me to be unique and helped me understand that I will not always fit in. He is my creator and because of Him, I create. He loves me and my imperfections. He wants the best for me and knows what I can and can not handle. He reminds me that life is full of joys and heartaches but to depend and lean on Him. He is a loving God and answers my prayers by saying, “yes and not now, I have something better for you.” He reminds me that not all battles are mine to fight, but to discern and choose wisely. He understands me when I am misunderstood. He wants me to grow, serve with joy, and be the best version of myself. I live with love, hope, and faith.
I understand that not everyone is meant to be my audience, but all are welcome. I thank you for visiting. If you choose to stay, thank you and welcome. I look forward to our journey of growing & evolving together. If not, thank you for visiting and I hope you find your community. You are welcome here anytime where there is mutual love and respect.
XOXO, Ann
This getaway was much needed for the both of us. We had the opportunity to reconnect & talk more about our future plans. We got to share our wants & needs without judgment & had a better understanding of where we are now as individuals. We talked and discussed how we can continue to grow as a couple & how we can become a stronger family unit. Our children love to travel so we can not wait to do more of that after he completes his semester.
Mr. T, thank you for everything. Thank you for your dedication to our family & to me. I know we are both trying the best we can for our family, but ultimately, I know we have to rely on God for the graces, blessings, & mercy to overcome any of the challenges. We are almost graduating….ok, he’s almost graduating, but we did it together. It’s almost real! We got this! Love you Mr. T! Love you everyone! Thank you for reading & sharing this big milestone with us. Praying for many many many more years of growing in marriage 😉
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