Write Down All The Things

Someone once asked me why I started blogging and well I don't really have a specific answer. If you read from back when I started Anna Christina you might notice that I started blogging right out of college. I had just received my PR degree and wanted to grow my knowledge of how the industry worked, while pursuing my passion for fashion. [Blogging is a PR tactic. When I was at a PR firm I was running blogs for specific accounts, now I’m just running mine.]

I didn’t start blogging because I wanted to be a blogger. It sounds ridiculous, but blogging and Instagram have created this false reality of always having fresh roses at home and perfect manicures. I think a lot of bloggers start because they think they want that life. It isn’t real. I started because I love writing and playing dress up. It gives me more satisfaction than a seemingly perfect life ever could.

I never started a blog with the thought that people would read it, I just had a degree that taught me how to blog for companies. I wanted to transcend that into a blog that would help girls do what I do best, spending money on frivolous things: clothing. However, life isn't solely about fashion and beauty, although you've seen plenty of both.

I love blogging because it allows me to create a place where readers can learn new things and be inspired to try something different. In order to compose a successful blog though it takes a lot of work and a notebook.

As I’ve mentioned before Etsy is my best friend. It truly is the world’s most vibrant handmade marketplace. I recently discovered Jillanastasia Paper Co. based in Omaha, Nebraska. The company is rooted in love for design, paper and people. Jillian the owner started her business after college as a way to express her passion for love for creating something that makes people smile. She finds her inspiration in her day-to-day life from travel magazines to conversations with friends. Oh, and she’s the sweetest too! Don't forget to check out her blog too!

She offers high-quality paper goods uniquely customized for you. I am thrilled to announce that one lucky reader has the opportunity to win a notebook by Jillianastasia Paper Co.!

Isn’t it so cute? And the saying is so true for bloggers, especially.

Head on over to Instagram for a chance to win this fabulous notebook! 

To enter:
1. Follow me @annachrsitinapalagi and @jillianastasia 
2. LIKE today’s photo

Giveaway ends Thursday, June 4th at 5PM PT!