With the Month of March kicking off International Women’s Day and Google Announcing Local Guides Connect 2019 conference, I was inspired to write a piece about myself and share some tips on how I lead a balanced lifestyle while staying on top of all my professional goals.
What is my role in Fashion Design
Since I’ve been working in Fashion since 2012, a great deal of my work has been both drawn by hand and later uploaded digitally for edits. From taking measurements to drafting patterns which are basically a blueprint of instructions for sewers, my tasks vary from project to project. I use Adobe’s illustrator which is my go-to software and more recently Procreate which allows me to draw measurements directly onto photos… I started making illustrations for my website and later scanning them into photoshop. I’ve always been very imaginative and liked drawing. Technology makes communication more direct and definitely adds to a presentation. I always have my iPhone, iPad, laptop, or a moleskin sketchbook handy.
How I use Google Maps in making my work easier
Whatever city I’m in, I open Maps and do a search for nearby fabric supply stores. I like to see everything that comes up and compare vendors. Mood in New York and Los Angeles are among my favorite along with International Silks and Woolens.
What I look for in a beauty service establishment
When I’m looking for a new salon to try, I keep an open mind and an understanding of different approaches toward techniques. The health and beauty industry is something I’ve researched a lot in different cities and in my hometown. I look for salons for many different services including yoga classes, gel mani/pedicures, eyebrow, and body waxing, eyelash extensions, and Swedish massages. I like to look at the number of times a place was rated and their overall score. I feel confident knowing that a lot of different people are saying positive things. Pictures add by giving me an idea of what to expect beforehand.
My favorite way to contribute to Google Maps and why
Nine times out of ten, there are pictures attached to my post. I take the time to write reviews about the places I’ve gone to for areas of interests I’m most passionate about. I like to spend my time going places that make me feel good and add to my aesthetic of what I have going on. Fashion Design can be hard work and sometimes months spent planning ahead. Having a busy schedule is ok as long as there is time spent replenishing and restoring. Having a good balance makes all the difference.
My favorite spas in my area and why I recommend them
There are a few good places I can recommend in the metro area, but the one I most recently discovered was Hand and Stone. They are a small chain throughout the midwest and offer a cool monthly service package. I like how tranquil the setting is in the locations I’ve been to. The staff is really friendly and does a good job making everyone feel comfortable prior to getting service.
How I relate self-care to success and productivity
Overall, I find that I’m able to perform at an optimal level when I’m feeling my best and most confident. Getting enough rest and having a relaxed mind allows me to focus in on my work. Exercising or a little time spent pampering prevents getting burnt out.
Tips for Local Guides who are just starting out
Take it one day at a time to level up. We use our phones every day and maps to get to where we are going. Before typing in a location to head to the next place, give a rating about how it impacted your experience for better or for worse, give a little extra thoughtful feedback in return. It would be appreciated so much from future patrons and would give insight to the owners on what it’s like to be on the receiving end. It’s not a competition if you really think about it. It’s all about you and what you get out of being present.