Collaboration is Key

If anyone ever asks me what my favorite part of blogging is, the answer will always be the people. Blogging has introduced me to amazing people, wonderful businesses, and opened the door for opportunity. In meeting new people, one common thought is "lets collaborate!" - collaboration is important in businesses that fit each others brands and is a great way to promote community and each other, with value added on all parts.

This month, I was lucky to have collaborated with Lea Berry Coaching and CE Photography, with JRH Graphics. I had worked with Callum of CE Photography before, and Jonathan of JRH Graphics, but I hadn't met Lea yet, although I heard a lot about her from Jonathan and I jumped at the opportunity to meet her and have this collaboration. For me, I am always open to meeting and working with new people. Its an impactful way to get your brand out there, expand your network, and be introduced to your collaborators networks as well. You also can learn from collaborations and the people who you are working with, in this case- I enlisted Lea's tips on public speaking and Jonathan gained some photog tips from Callum.

For me, public speaking is terrifying. Even in smaller groups, I can hear my voice shaking and my anxiety goes through the roof. I need to face my public speaking fear by October as I was asked to MC the Beyond the Little Black Dress Fashion Show hosted by the Alliance Francaise DC. I immediately accepted, knowing public speaking would be involved, but I couldn't let my fear get in the way of this opportunity.

As Lea and I both have bright aesthetics and Callum is known for his mural photography, we decided the best place to shoot would be the new "Work It Girl" mural at the Elizabeth Taylor Clinic on 14th St. Our color themes were pink and blue, with out outfits planned to match and compliment one another. We also hit Miss Pixie's because it is one of the best vintage home furnishing stores in DC.

During our shoot, Lea and I got to know each other and she walked me through some of her favorite tips for public speaking, which have already helped me mentally prepare. I had never spoken with a Life Coach before, and talking with her left me feeling positive and upbeat, and ready to public speak! Since our collab, Lea has published a blog post on public speaking tips, which you can read here.

My outfit details:

Look 1- Flamingo Dress (similar here and here) | Silver Heels | Pink Bag (similar) | Sunnies (similar)