Stay golden!

If you haven't heard, this weekend is the Texas Style Council blogger conference! I've been scrambling to get my booty in order...outfits, swap swag, photo gear...so exciting! I'm still learning how all of this works so it's fun to network and learn from others.

One networking tool we're all familiar with (blogger or not)...business cards! I feel lucky to work in the creative industry because essentially, you get to have a little bit more fun with the every day riff-raff. SO, instead of investing lots o' bucks into some serious branding, I decided to go with a simple "Hello, I'm Andrea" kinda card. I don't own my own business...I'm just here learnin' the ropes! This DIY was inspired by the lovely Camille Styles.

Make it: (estimated cost:  $25 - $30)

• First, create a 3.5" x 2" design via Photoshop (PowerPoint could work too) and upload to your local Fedex/Kinko's office.

• Next, use what ya got! I had some gold paint laying around and decided to spice up my cards with a fancy gilded edge effect. You could also make a fun design using watercolor paint or washi tape... be creative! 

{Tip}
If you plan on giving out your phone number, I recommend using Google Voice (especially when buying/selling on Craigslist). You can block spammers, send texts and there is even a voice mail feature. Thanks Google for having basically, everything.

We're all unique and business cards should not only reflect a brand but personality as well!  Don't let anyone tell you you're just a template...!:)

{Weekend}

Hey Austin, I've been doing a little exploring and with this triple digit Texas heat, it feels nice to wander in and out of (air conditioned) shops. It feels even nicer if there are cold drinks involved:)

Among the snapshots of my weekend, I discovered a couple South Lamar gems...

• Mockingbird Domestics...This store is a great place to get inspired by local artists. Most of the items are a bit out of my price range, but the hand-made furniture is stunning.
• Henri's Cheese, Wine & Charcuterie...This quaint little cafe had me at cheese:) They serve lunch and offer cheese and wine into the evening hours. This is a must-try spot! Not to mention the funky Austin interior vibes...those pendants (above) had me drooling. 

Also, meet my hunky boyfriend Doug, bestie Andrea (name twins) and her sweet pup BRUCE! We were busy with fixer upper projects, fresh basil recipes and sunset trail walks.  I hope you had a lovely weekend as well!

Cheers.