Little House of Chic 2.0
Whoa, this feels like a surreal moment. I've invested considerable time into a brand re-design, and some of you may wonder why fix something that wasn't broken? Well, for me, it felt broken. I found myself embarking on an endless journey in search of my true style, striving to understand who I was and how I wanted my brand to be perceived. As a lifestyle blogger, your brand becomes an extension of your inner spirit, personal style, and unique personality.
Embarking on this journey of self-discovery, I felt a desire to unravel the intricacies of my own identity, to understand the factors that shaped me, and to recognize the individuals who left imprints on my life. Following the advice of experts, I heeded their counsel to begin this introspective quest by looking into my childhood and family. It was here, within the embrace of those early years and the presence of my loved ones, that I believed I would find the key to unlocking the secrets of my true self.
Grandma Louise
Self-Discovery with Family as a Guide
If you want to learn about yourself, start with your grandparents. They hold the key to the past, and their influence often shapes our interests and passions. For me, my beloved grandmother, Louise, played a pivotal role in nurturing my love for home design and the art of entertaining. From a young age, I found myself drawn to her stylish demeanor, the quintessential embodiment of Southern charm. Her impeccable taste in decor, her knack for creating warm and inviting spaces, and her sassy personality left an indelible mark on my own sense of style. I cherished the moments spent with her, watching as she effortlessly hosted gatherings that brought joy and laughter to all who entered her home. In her graceful and creative approach to homemaking, my grandmother planted the seeds of inspiration that have blossomed into a lifelong passion for creating beautiful spaces and memorable experiences for others.
My love for entertaining and home design flourished under the influence of my loving grandmother, Louise. Her innate sense of hospitality and her ability to transform any space into a welcoming haven were truly awe-inspiring. I absorbed her wisdom, observing her impeccable attention to detail when setting a table, selecting the perfect floral arrangements, and curating a harmonious blend of colors and textures. Her passion for creating an atmosphere that exuded warmth and joy became ingrained in my own approach to entertaining. From intimate gatherings to extravagant celebrations, I have carried her legacy with me, infusing my own personal touch while still honoring the timeless elegance she instilled in me. With every event I host, I strive to recreate the magic she effortlessly conjured, weaving together elements of comfort, beauty, and enchantment to create unforgettable moments for my loved ones. My grandmother's influence has not only shaped my love for entertaining and home design but has also become a cherished part of my identity, forever guiding me as I curate spaces that reflect love, laughter, and a true sense of Southern hospitality.
Little Emily
Go Back to Where You Came From
As a child, the journey to discover my true self presented its fair share of challenges. It was during those formative years, when finding a sense of belonging and forging a unique identity are paramount, that my family embarked on a series of moves. With each relocation, the process of building a solid foundation and establishing lasting friendships was disrupted. I found myself adapting and molding aspects of my personality to fit into new communities, only to realize that at the core, I remained wonderfully different. Despite my tender age, I had already amassed a wealth of life experiences that set me apart. Embracing the role of the perpetual new girl, I embarked on a heartfelt acceptance of my journey. This reality became an intrinsic part of who I was during those formative years, shaping the resilient and compassionate person I am today.
Among the multitude of places I called home, two locations stood out as the most impactful: Mississippi and Florida. They played a pivotal role in shaping my sense of style and the items I’m drawn to. The soft, comforting colors of the coast merged seamlessly with the elegance and refinement of the Southern aesthetic.
The experience of moving around during my childhood has profoundly influenced every aspect of my life. It has left an enduring imprint on the way I approach everything I do. When it comes to hosting stylish dinner parties, I strive to create an ambiance that blends elegance and comfort, accompanied by soothing music and soft lighting. The fabrics I carefully choose for my home exude a sense of lightweight coziness and gentle touch. Similarly, my personal fashion choices reflect a harmonious blend of bold colors, sassiness, and timeless sophistication.
Moving around may have been tough as a kid, but now as a 30-year-old woman, I’m thankful for the experience because it has made me uniquely me. Those experiences have played a significant role in shaping my authentic self, empowering me to embrace my individuality and celebrate those years that have made me who I am today.
The Early Blog Years
In the early days of my blog, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, uncovering my true self one photo at a time. It became a catalyst that prompted me to ponder profound questions: How could I make a meaningful impact on the world? What did I aspire to be known for? In what ways could I uplift and support women? Reflecting on my own experiences, what valuable lessons had I learned that I could share with others?
There are moments, particularly after indulging in a glass of wine 😂, when I find myself scrolling through my camera roll, chuckling at my previous styling attempts and home designs. Yet, amidst the laughter, I recognize that the road to self-discovery is a lifelong expedition. It is through those old photos that I comprehend the importance of taking action and embracing experimentation. Each endeavor, whether successful or not, contributes to personal growth and refinement. Only through doing and trying do we progress and evolve on our journey toward becoming the best version of ourselves.
I discovered that my passions resided in a few essential elements: the art of hosting, the joy of making others feel cherished, the pursuit of creating a home that exudes both beauty and comfort, the mission to empower women, and the thrill of unleashing my creativity through decor. These pillars became the guiding lights that illuminated my path toward fulfillment. There is a comforting clarity in knowing what truly brings us joy and purpose. It is in the act of hosting and creating meaningful experiences that I find solace. I cherish the opportunity to make others feel special, to provide a haven that envelops them in both aesthetic delight and heartfelt comfort. In supporting and uplifting women, I witness the transformative power that radiates from within. And when it comes to decor, I revel in the freedom to explore and infuse spaces with unique touches that inspire and captivate. These passions have become my anchors, guiding me to a life filled with purpose, warmth, and the comforting embrace of shared moments.
xoxo
Emily