It’s Fall Y’all!

Move out of the way Spring Cleaning there’s a new kid on the block and it’s the Fall Closet Clean Out. Why save the big clean for the spring? Your wardrobe changes with the leaves so should your closet.

Have you ever looked at your closet and felt completely overwhelmed? Have you ever struggled to pick an outfit even though you feel like you have so many pieces of clothing? If you answered yes to any of these questions I have a solution for you.

I offer three specific closet clean out services to help with your dressing woes.

All of these services include a body evaluation so that we can go through your current closet and handpick items that work best for you. I will also do a closet inventory to help you create a log of all of your current clothes so that you have a “refresher” sheet to jog your memory anytime you are struggling with a look.

 

So lets take a closer look at each of the individual services.

 

The Seasonal Closet Clean Out:

  • body type assessment {3 simple measurements to determine your shape}

  • seasonal analysis/inventory of your spring/summer or fall/winter wardrobe essentials based on your specific body type

  • sorting items that need to be altered, donated, or consigned and organizing what’s left

  • customized “Style File” including tips for your body type, your wardrobe essentials checklist, and additional trends and style tips including Forever Styled’s local favorites list of resources and retailers

 

The Ultimate Closet Facelift:

  • body type assessment {3 simple measurements to determine your shape}

  • complete analysis/inventory of your entire wardrobe based on your specific body type

  • sorting items that need to be altered, donated, or consigned

  • re-organization of your closet/wardrobe and upgrading hangers {cost of the hangers not included}

  • customized “Style File” hyperlinked with items to shop including tips for dressing your body type, your wardrobe essentials inventory checklist, and additional trends and style tips including Forever Styled’s local favorites list of resources and retailers

 

The VIP Elite Concierge Status:

  • you customize the amount of time you would like to pre-purchase at a reduced rate

exclusive invitations to bi-annual VIP parties and other seasonal events with high-end collaborative partners

  • shopping discounts from collaborative partners

  • special Style Party hosting incentives {host a party and receive 50% off a gift package/service of your choice}

  • receive benefits from a unique client referral program

This concierge experience can be tailored to your budget.

 

You can inquire about any of these services in the comments below or in the “What We Do” tab. Happy Fall (Closet Clean Out) Y’all!

 

Summer Dressing

When it comes to summer, you have to think about more than just fashion. I do not know about y’all, but here in Texas it gets hot… I mean like HOT.  So when dressing for those scorching months it is about managing style while trying to hide sweat marks.

One of my favorite outfit options in the summer time is, drumroll please, The Summer Dress! I know, I know, what a predictable idea, but really it is the best option. When going with a Summer Dress you can always find a fit that is flattering for any body type and you can play them up or down with accessories. (Bonus: Summer dresses can double as special event dresses – simply swap out accessories to match the occasion!)

Summer Dresses:

   

 

Here are my suggestions for switching up the summer dress: You can layer on jewelry, or add pops of color with bold shoes without adding layers of clothing that can be extremely hot.

Jewelry:

   

 

Shoes:

   

 

Another look I love for summer is the two-piece set. You can find two-piece sets in fun prints and different cuts, which helps to make them wearable for an occasion. The are particularly great for String Bean body types!

 

Two-Piece Sets: 

   

 

One last thing to complete your summer look: Sunglasses! Sunnies are not only a fun way to jazz up your look, but they also protect your eyes against harmful UV rays and add some polarization to block out pesky glares from Texas heat mirages!

 

Glasses:

   

 

 

Stay cool and cute, my friends!

Jen Young

Completing an Outfit with Accessories

Ever been stuck in a dressing rut? It might be shocking to hear coming from a stylist’s lips, but I feel ya! That is right friends, I sometimes have just as much trouble pulling polished and complete looks out of my own closet ((even if it is newly cleaned and organized). So what do I do when it comes to getting over the fashion hump?? I steer clear of boring basics and go straight for the finishing touches! I hit the accessories hard and get creative with what once felt dull.

 

Here are my top tips using accessories to turn your style frown upside-down:

 

HATS

A great way to spice up your jeans, tees or simple denim jacket is by throwing on a hat. You can make it fancy, or keep it simple, like this floppy felt brim option. Either way you turn it, hats are a great way to add that extra “oomph” that ties everything together from head to toe. Oh, and did I mention hats cover up your overdue for a shampoo hair?? Don’t make a face! We’ve all be there one time or another…

 

 

GLASSES

Sunnies cover up a long night and an early morning. I also like to think that my final look in the mirror after leaving the house is more complete with matching sunglasses. The nice thing about a good pair of shades as a finishing accessory is that you can have one simple pair that works for most every look. My rose gold aviator ray bans are my favorite.

 

 

 

JACKETS

Jackets used as accessories are an uncommon twist on what is so traditional. So I ask you to step outside your usual fashion box, and work with me. Look past the functional aspect of a jacket. Yes, they are there to keep you warm…But what if you simply throw it over your shoulders and wear it like a cape? Or even better, take a denim jacket and wrap it around your waist? Jackets can also be a way to add color or pattern to your wardrobe.

 

 

 

 

 

BAGS

Purses are the perfect way to complete and transform an outfit. No one can afford to buy something new to wear for each day of the year, or if you can, I would LOVE a peek inside your closet. For us normal folks though, finding ways to reuse clothing and revamp items is key. I find throwing a different bag with a staple piece is perfect for jazzing up its basic purpose. Clutches for evening wear are preferred. A unique classic professional tote for work is also appropriate.

 

 

JEWELRY

The most obvious ((and maybe best?)) of them all! Jewelry is great when left simple or layered to perfection. I encourage clients to mix metals, use vintage with new, and go bold when it comes to this accessory. Make any dress or shirt look refined and fresh with a statement necklace, or turn up the arm candy party by layering tons of bangles with your daily watch. And NEVER forger the power of a bold earring! Be cautious, however, of adding too much bling if you are planning to speak to an audience with a headset or present to camera. Those larger pieces can often interfere with your first impression !

 

I hope these tips give you greater style confidence ! Please do share how you plan to integrate these styling ideas into your wardrobe this week, loves!

Stylishly yours,

Jen Young

Closet Clean Out – Before & Afters

 

In true closet clean out fashion… This is taking MUCH longer than I initially thought. Where we were hoping to have an awesome array of images from my own closet, there are still a few finishing touches missing from the album. Not to get all “busy working mom” on you, but I think there is a great lesson to be learned in all of this.

Perfection is never reachable, and some things just take longer than you anticipate. Despite the time I DO NOT have to finish cleaning out my own closet, let me show you some of the ones I have completed and give a little insight on what happens during the process of closet clean out. Each space poses its own set of trials and tribulations, as no two closets are alike!

 

 

Small Space, Big Wardrobe 

This closet is actually a combination of two coat closets and one smaller walk-in. The goal was to maximize space and give a flow to the placement of items. We accomplished this by designating closets to specific items of clothing (i.e. shoes, coats, everyday items). This way every like minded thing lives together.

 

 

Move In And Un Pack

I love a clean slate like I love a good piece of chocolate! Being able to work with clients as they move into their new homes is a great way to make a fresh start in the space. It can be a daunting task to unload and sort all of your crap, but the results are life-giving when it’s all said and done.

 

Sophistication Is Just One Step Away

When it comes to matching your closet to your lifestyle, it’s all about the sophistication! A very easy way to accomplish this is just by turning your hangers! I have said it once and will say it a million times more, using matching felt hangers makes a world of difference. Don’t believe me… Look at the photos above! Everything lines up and the same eye level making it easier to discern what item to select each day. Added touches like displaying beautiful handbags and other treasures styles the space in boutique fashion. And look at those striped hat boxes…to die for!

 

Another Before And After

Here is another example of why turning hangers and reducing clutter is SO IMPORTANT! We got rid of a 1/4 of these clothes my client will never miss. Adding a matching hanger also gave her added space and more peace of mind!

 

 

Dry Cleaner Bag Hell

These images reveal the power of removing those dreaded plastic dry cleaner bags and letting your clothes breathe for a change. If you are concerned about something getting soiled or dusty, consider purchasing reusable clear zip up bags. Here is another quick tip: Ask your dry cleaners to turn your hangers and cover your garments with your personal zip up bags so you never bring wire or plastic bags back into your life. This practice is environmentally responsible and makes the practice of daily dressing much easier.

 

 

A Full Overhaul 

This closet was one where I got to add an extra spin. For me a space is all about looking past the clothing and finding a way to design to its full potential. I love adding in little flares to hang jewelry or store smaller items. Adding a touch of your personal style to the decor of your closet is a great way to finish the look and make your clothing stand out even more.

 

 

If you are planning to clean out your closet and need help, email me: jen@foreverstyled.com. And stay tuned for a fully finished look at my own closet this coming week!

 

 

Stylishly Yours,

 

Jen Young

Closet Clean Out – Purging and Sorting

 

 

Closet Cleanout

 

Sometimes practicing what you preach is one of the hardest things to do. Day after day I help women and men get a fresh start with their wardrobes–cleaning their closets, purging and sorting, filling the gaps, and transforming their image. It seems I also try hard to avoid doing the same for myself. Not that my closet is a pigsty… But I do occasionally turn my head to the side and eye-roll when I walk past the door. It’s the cobbler’s children have no shoes mentality, right?

 

This past year I moved my clothing into my dream closet, and now I need to take time to make it the picture perfect room. For the next few weeks I will bring you all through my own closet facelift, and hopefully learn some new things along the way!

 

Closet Cleanout Purging and Sorting

When it comes to going through closets {which can really be a microcosm of your life}, the key is to remember this is a very personal job. Not only do clothes tell the story of someone’s personal tastes and treasures, sometimes they also hide the pain they might be feeling. Let’s face it {me included}, inventorying your wardrobe is a cleansing experience AND a process you must stride gingerly through.

Purging and Sorting consign repair donate

First things first: I have clients make three piles. Consign, Repair/Launder and Donate. Anything that is not a for sure “keeper” ends up in one of these piles. I suggest you repair items that are realistically repairable or gussied up by a fresh press at the professional dry cleaner asap. All other garments and accessories should be sent to a donation center of your choice or consigned for a new start. You can see some of the places I consign in my PREVIOUS BLOG. 

Purging and Sorting thread up

One of my favorite ways to consign is by using ThredUp. They send a kit to place your clothing in with FREE SHIPPING, you mail it back, and they do the rest! I love making money while I sleep. Wink.

Purging and Sorting shoes

Look for rough edges on shoes or worn out toe fronts.

 

Purging and Sorting discoloring

When items start looking furry and discolored..purge them. You are better than that!

 

Purging and Sorting pilling

Frayed edges mean Bye Bye.

Look for Pilling, Frayed Edges, and Shoe Wear and Tear: When it comes to what I look for with repair items vs. donate and consign…Though this is always up for debate, some of the more apparent problems I see are scuffs and rips on shoes, discoloration on clothing, and pilling on items like sweaters or pants. We all know them and we see them often, but saying goodbye to our cherished items often times is hard to do. If you struggle to know just when to let go…here is another post to help you ask seven simple questions to declutter your wardrobe. 

 

Purging and Sorting dogs

And though I am one who truly loves furry friends, it is always nice to make sure and arrange someone to watch them, or have a pen they can stay in during the process. And that goes for non-furry little friends too. When you purge and re-org–make this a sacred time for you and your closet. These decisions can be stressful… so give your self a kid free-pet free moment to deep dive into the challenge.

 

If you want to learn more on having your own fresh start with a closet clean out, email me: jen@foreverstyled.com or call me at 678-772-9975. You are worth it. Your closet will thank you and likely spur you on to lean out other parts of your life as well.

 

 

Stylishly ((and realistically)) Yours,

 

Jen Young

Lessons From 2017

 

I am not going to lie to you…I am really happy 2017 is in my rear view window.

 

You know—some years are better than others, but this last one I grew like a beanstalk, facing both the challenges of single motherhood and learning what it means to stand firm on my own two feet as an entrepreneur. That statement is code for—this girl needs a nap asap.

 

Please don’t hear me complain with a voice positioning myself as a victim. I love my life and all that God has revealed the last twelve months amidst uncharted waters. And thanks to my parents; I have slept in for seven days in a row at their home in Florida this week, so I am officially a well-rested camper.

 

But let’s all face it: Adulting. Is. Freaking. Hard.

 

Can I get an, “Amen??” And then wear this shirt if you agree…..

 

Can we also harmonize, in tandem to the mess and hardship we all face, this life holds so much beauty?

 

Let me expand a bit so perhaps all my imperfections and revelations from them will urge you on to something bigger and better than you ever thought possible for yourself. Taking an introspective look at myself has been a healthy exercise, so I pray you will garner some insight as you prepare your own clean slate for 2018.

 

When I got my initial footing in the fashion industry just four years ago thanks to my mentor and friend Lauren Lafevre {Edit By Lauren}, I had no idea how much the simple notion of “get your clothes on” {as stated in my tag line} would lead to profound personal truths that run deeper than just my wardrobe.

 

 “Fashion is not necessarily about labels. It’s not brands. It’s about something else that comes from within you.” Ralph Lauren

 

Here are the lessons I will take with me into the new year:

 

 

1.} Attitude is Everything: Choosing a positive attitude and self-concept is paramount to combat all the negative input that can potentially sabotage your daily routine. My personal commitment is to bring light to a dark world…and that happens to begin with a thoughtful outfit, an intentional smile, and lending a helping hand. I also like to keep in mind the popular phrase that became a mantra in Facebook’s hacker culture, done is better than perfect. Or even better, acknowledging Voltaire’s statement, “Perfect is the enemy of good.” Not to say giving something your all isn’t a worthy goal, but knowing when things need to take your time and when they don’t is also important.

 

My kids: Jackson (14}, Me {no age required}, Julia {11 going on 21}!

 

2.} My Children, Family, and Friends are my Greatest Resume: I think about the time I invest in my team members with Forever Styled {love you Shelby and Alex}, keeping my home organized and calendar oiled with kid/biz appointments, but nothing is more sacred than the moments I invest in my children, family, and friends–especially during technology free dinners chock-full of meaningful conversation. That means protecting this time is uber important. Who you surround yourself with on any given day also shapes who you become and the legacy you will ultimatley leave behind.

 

3.} I am NOT a Superhero: While I secretly wish I could clone myself, read the minds of my teenagers, or even be invisible for a day, I recognize I am not Wonder Woman or any other being that requires a cape. But knowing I cannot do it all, be all, for everyone liberates me. Becoming a master “time-blocker” of my calendar and recognizing my limitations as a person has saved me. Learning to say “NO” in order to give greater value to the things I say “yes” to has changed my life. Don’t be a slave to thinking you have to be a multiple plate spinner to be a success. Simplify your commitments and aspire for greatness at a few things. Invest in the philosophy that less is more. That includes the amount of stuff you have as well. To that point, stay tuned for a “full monty” view {kidding} of my own personal closet purge later this month.

 

My buddies: Shannon, Amy and I on a recent trip to San Fran.

4.} I Need Fun: Being an adult carries so much responsibility! I have learned that some of the my best original ideas for my business and personal goals have come out of weekend retreats with soul sisters or times when I just let loose and eat waffles with fried chicken. If you haven’t spent time laughing with your friends or at yourself for that matter…then get on it. You might uncover your greatest strengths by doing something out of the ordinary like saying yes to kayaking when you prefer to read a book at home. Staying stagnant is boring. Venture out and explore something new. You deserve a unique adventure that just might expand your territory.

 

5.} Health is so Important: As I have learned to take better care myself this year, by adjusting my workout routine {thank you Susan Stivers}, food and sleep plan, and getting more margin around my calendar, I am happier and wiser. I took baby steps toward life balance, but will keep pressing forward knowing this pursuit works. There are no medals for people who push themselves beyond human capacity warranting daily doses of Xanax. I am ready to be stronger and mentally clearer than ever this year.

You with me?

 

Blessings to each of you this New Year. What have you learned that you will take into 2018? Share the love….

 

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Cor 12:9

 

 

With Strength and Dignity,

 

Jen

 

 

The Gift That Saves Time & Money

Gift That Saves

We are only two weeks away from Christmas which means sheer panic has set in. HA! If you are anything like me, there is not ONE gift under the tree to date, nor do you even have an idea of what you need to purchase.

 

Hopefully, you saw in my blog last week how local boutiques like Raven and Lily hold such a dear place in my heart and how finding brands that give back as a part of their mission helps your holiday shopping make an even larger impact.

 

Next week, we will reconvene for our boutique spotlight series and touch on the importance of recycling and re-homing fashion {as I call it} with a wonderful re-sell shop I adore, Haute Exchange. It’s like an adoption process but for clothes. This topic just makes me giddy—especially for my clients who struggle to let go of those items they have purchased but still have tags hanging on them. Or those still-so-fabulous items that no longer work for your body type.

 

Pardon my interruption, but this week, let’s unpack the theme of TIME.

 

TIME is of the essence and each year there seems to be less and less of it. TIME is a big thing I often help my clients with and a topic of interest I value. Though my services focus on bringing peace to the daily dressing routine and fine-tuning a person’s individual style, they are also geared to help you save time and minimize the clutter of your life.

Gift Closet

Working with me during a thorough closet assessment allows the opportunity to make educated choices on what you should and should NOT wear/keep, as well as make room for new things in your life. Like that fabulous pair of shoes you want for Christmas! Personally, my heart is set on these Valentino Studded beauties. What can I say ? This girl can dream.

I also help with the ins and outs of your everyday wardrobe through personal styling! And thanks to this amazing thing we call technology, I have recently added a virtual styling option to the mix. That is right my friends, you can inventory your closet online, and I can help you style, fill in gaps, and organize your clothing all over the world wide web. Woo hoo. It is a more affordable way to stay organized all the while keeping your fashion mojo intact.

Gift Shop

SHIRT | LEGGINGS | SLIPPERS | NIKES | NECKLACE | PERFUME

 

Although, best of all in my opinion, is that you can now save even more time and money by shopping my top monthly picks under the categories: For Her,  For Him,  Home Items, Things Under $100 all on my website! Never overthink what to purchase for you or a loved one ever again!

 

So long story LONNGG, as we continue with our month of shopping with a purpose, I would love to have the privilege to work with your special friend or someone this holiday season. Consider purchasing a gift card from Forever Styled as your thoughtful  way to bless those in your life with an experience way more creative than a spa treatment {although don’t get me wrong…. massages are also straight from heaven!}

 

Gift Card

I will be offering my Seasonal Closet Nip and Tuck for $375 (usually $495) or if you Prepay for a year of Virtual Styling I will give you a month for free – $600 value for $550. Both options make great gift card ideas!

 

 

Wishing you all a HAPPY HOLIDAY!

 

Jen Young

 

 

Holiday Highlight: Raven and Lily

Holiday Highlight Raven and Lily

Holiday Highlight Sign

Holiday Highlight Dresses

 

The holidays are indeed upon us… And getting back to my original plan this month, I am honored to feature amazing businesses in the coming weeks that deserve high praise for not only the “beauties” they sell but also to celebrate the mission behind their brand.

 

This Christmas has taken on a whole new meaning for me as a single mom, so I am excited to share about a thoughtful company that empowers the working woman to experience financial reward and personal freedom as a result of unique international partnerships.

 

Holiday Highlight

Kirsten Dickerson {the tall blond} alongside her beautiful artisan partners

 

It is a joy to talk with my dear friend Kirsten Dickerson, Co-Founder of Raven and Lily, for this post.
We have known each other for over 20 years from our Pi Beta Phi sorority days, so it a blessing to watch her business thrive as she changes lives everyday. Her vision to offer trend-forward fair trade fashion, accessories, and home furnishings to empower women on a global scale truly inspires me.

 

Here is a little Q and A with Kirsten.

 

J- What was your inspiration behind Raven and Lily?

 

K- My inspiration behind Raven + Lily is the value of women. I believe in dignity oriented opportunity for women, and I know that when women are empowered, they will invest in their families and communities. I created a lifestyle brand that would provide the Western women with products that reflect the beauty and culture of the women who made them. We think about the impact on people and the planet at every stage of production and follow fair trade standards. Our customers are part of the beautiful redemptive stories of hope unfolding in the lives of the women who make our designs.

 

Holiday Highlight Outfit

J- Can you explain your signature look / describe the brand behind Raven and Lily?

K- We are modern, yet organic. I love neutrals, texture, minimalism and a little bling. I believe in designing things for fashion and the home you can love for years and aren’t dictated by trends. All materials used in Raven + Lily designs are natural and sustainably sourced.

 

 

J- Could you tell us a bit about your heart for philanthropy and vision for sustainable fashion?

 

K– With every purchase, our customers are helping to provide fair trade employment for at risk women.  With every purchase, our customers are also helping to donate back to help provide micro loans for HIV+ women who have graduated from a business skills training program. At every stage of our production process, we think through the impact on people and the planet…as far back as the buttons and where cotton is sourced.  We want to know the story behind our designs so that our customer can be confident they are having a positive and not negative impact with their purchase.

Statistically, fashion is the second largest polluter, 1 in 6 people are employed in the industry, less than 3% earn a livable wage, and 80% are women. These stats are heart-breaking, but I’m in the business of breaking that negative impact and proving that it is possible to produce beautiful products that empower women and protect our beautiful world.

 

 

J- What tips would give others to keep in mind this holiday season when shopping?

 

K- Slow down, and look for opportunities to gift, dress, and decorate thoughtfully this holiday season. It takes time, but its possible to do this.  There are so many wonderful companies and products that do good in the world now. If you don’t know where to start, try this excellent of social good companies  http://www.thegoodtrade.com

 

Holiday Highlight Bag

 

J- What is your favorite piece in the store right now (if you had to choose one)? 

 

K- For fashion, I love the goat hair bucket bag and Simbi black dress with brass buckles. It’s the perfect LBD for year round wear.  For the home, I love the wool pom blankets and pillows from Morocco. They are on my master bed and look perfect for the holidays though I use them year round!

 

Holiday Highlight glamping

 

J- Talent runs in your family. Tell us a little about  your husbands movie premiere and background?

 

K- Well, my husband, Brandon Dickerson, is a film-maker and current director at Laity Lodge.  His most recent movie, “Amanda and Jack Go Glamping” was filmed at our former glamping retreat, Green Acres, outside Austin and was just released. You can download and watch it this week! Our son is also an aspiring film-maker and my daughter wants to be a culinary artist.  So I guess its safe to say we are a family of artists who really love movies and nature.

 

 

Learn More About Raven and Lily by visiting them ONLINE or on INSTAGRAM

 

I  hope your holidays are filled with happiness and peace. It always pays royally when you shop with purpose and with brands who gives back a hundred-fold like Raven + Lilly.

 

Blessings to You and Yours this Holiday Season.

Jen

Skip The Crazy This Black Friday

NATIONAL

     

 

LOCAL

 

 

 

Now, don’t let the title fool you, I know good and well most of us are doing some kind of shopping this Black Friday. However, I am trying to make it as easy and quick as possible so you can get back to laying on the couch with family and respecting your time to give thanks.

 

Above are tons of sales, both locally and nationally, and their links to guide you through your shopping experience. And to make things one step easier for you, I’ve added a SHOP tab to my site with easy to snag options for gifts under $100, for him, for you and for the family!

 

For those of you still needing to get out and face the crowds… Here are some tips on making your excursion a little less painful:

 

  1. Do all the ONLINE shopping you can first, before trying to get out and about. And don’t forget to take advantage of free shipping and gift wrapping, it is such a time saver in the long run!

 

  1. When going out to the stores make sure to prepare like a momma. Bring snacks and water to keep your pulse and blood sugar going with you!

 

  1. Don’t feel like you need to do it all. Splurge on a nanny for the kids so you can shop child free.

 

  1. Better yet, make it a girls day! Meet up with your friends and throw a relaxing lunch in between stores.

 

  1. Always remember to dress for trying on! This sounds silly, and though you might not be shopping for yourself, it is always something to keep in mind. Wear a regular bra, not a sports bra, and cami so you can easily slip on and off tops. Think comfortable shoes and make sure to have on bottoms (not a dress).

 

  1. Take advantage of curbside pickups at stores like Nordstrom’s. You can shop ahead of time and roll right up to snag your bags.

 

  1. Be willing to valet park (or prepare for walking). It is a good way to shed those newly added turkey pounds!

 

  1. Prioritize. Don’t think you will make it to every store on your list. Know the top things you want to score deals on and go for those first. Anything else is a bonus and a pat on your back!

 

 

Happy Thanksgiving to you all! And happy shopping to those brave souls out there.

 

 

  • Jen Young

Soul Care For My Soul Sisters

Soul Care

 

We started this month talking about empowering the working woman and celebrating just how awesome she is! As the weeks have progressed {what the heck— it is already the last week of October???} I’ve noticed how empowering her also means we need to “treat” her. Much like in a plane, you are no good if you don’t put on your oxygen mask first. Without some soul care you are bound to fall flat on all the everyday demands of both work and family.

 

Here are my top ten routines/tips to keep your heart and body healthy and happy… and none of them take too long so no excuses!

 

Soul Care Massage

1. Massage: Maybe it isn’t a full hour at a nice spa for your price conscious ladies? Maybe it is just a foot rub you bribed your kids to give you? Either way, having that moment to relax and breath means more than most could know. The power of physical touch and working out all the kinks in our bodies is so important as we press onward to our goal to change history with our lives.

 

Soul Care Lip Stick

ONE  | TWO  |  THREE  |  FOUR  |  FIVE

2. New Lip Color: Ever gotten a glance in the mirror around 4 pm and thought, “Yikes! Is that me??” A very simple way to combat this situation is by adding a new lipstick to your routine. Stop into a CVS or Walgreens for a quick fix. Or stop by the lip counter at your local Nordstrom or Sephora to test out the best shades for your pout.

 

Soul Care Flowers

3. Fresh Cut Flowers: You’re already at the store at least 3 times a week… Or is that just me?? Stop to smell the roses (literally) and bring a bundle home. I am convinced fresh flowers liven up a home and warm a heart. I shop Trader Joe’s for the most cost effective beauties, and love potted orchids which last up to three months with a simple ice cube to water each week and bright, indirect sunlight!

 

Soul Care Shoes

ONE  |  TWO  | THREE  |  FOUR  |  FIVE

4. Shoes That Fit: Some days we just need to walk on clouds. Every woman should have one pair of sneakers that are the “go-to” on days when your feet just can’t take it. I adore these leopard sneakers with skinny jeans and a denim top for an easy kick around solution.

 

Soul Care Food

5. Lunch Date: Take the time to meet a life-giving friend for lunch or coffee. Your soul, heart, body, etc. will thank you. Explore a new part of town or eat Dim Sum style. Your palette needs as much stretching as your wardrobe.

 

 


Soul Care Books
SO LONG INSECURITY  |  LIONESS ARISING  |  THE SILENT WIFE

6. A Great New Book: I am face planted in two books right now that are both convicting and inspiring me to do better and be a better women. Check out So Long Insecurity by Beth Moore and Lioness Arising by Lisa Bevere to spur you on to greatness. Get lost in a fiction book like The Silent Wife to escape “adulting” on a daily basis.

 

Soul Care Coffee

7. Warm Beverage: Perfect for the shift in the weather! A stop at Starbucks or your favorite local coffee/tea shop in the morning is a great way to take a second for yourself. Hold the cup between your hands and breathe in the sweet smell of a seasonal pumpkin spice latte or chai tea. The pleasant aroma might be all you need to stay inspired!

 

Soul Care Nails

ONE  |  TWO  | THREE  |  FOUR 

 

8. Mani / Pedi: This is a monthly “must do” activity if you ask me, and more importantly, one that relays the message of your first impression. Keeping up with your nails is not only a treat but necessary to suggest proper grooming is important to you—especially as a working professional.

 

Soul Care Icecream

9. Sweet Delight: Have 20 minutes between after school activities and meetings? Grab French fries or ice cream. And I dare you to not shame yourself for the treat afterwards! We are so hard on ourselves and the added pressure is just not needed. Be happy and eat those fries, ladies! Once a month won’t kill you.

 

Soul Care Running

10. Time Without the Phone: This is such a big one and maybe the most difficult. Try leaving your phone in the car during your yoga class or going on a short walk to take in nature uninterrupted. Give yourself some time to separate from the world; everything will still be there when you get back!

Finally, take a moment or two each morning to look in the mirror and remind yourself how great you truly are! Give yourself a compliment, we all know we deflect enough of them anyways. You matter. You are important. And you are created by a loving God who does not make junk!

 

Blessings and Style Peace,

Jen Young