ARTSY FUSION @artsyfusion-blog - Tumblr Blog

10 Things To Do Over The Summer

1. Get an internship, while taking classes

2. Become a http://capfabb.com member

3. Travel, read books and take tons of pictures

4. Rent a bike, do some hiking and have a picnic at a park

5. Get ACTIVE (play sports or go to the GYM)

6. Get a TATTOO/cartilage piercing

7. Go to The Newseum, Crystal city: bright art walls, Union Market (Bluemercury), Dupont Circle (fresh farm market, The Phillips Collection, the National Geographic Museum) Culpeper, VA (historic downtown culler virginia), Adams Morgan (JUMBO PIZZA PLACE), BlackCat, The Roxy Theater, Georgetown, DC (The Tombs)…

8. Attend a Topaz and Arrow- DIY workshop (ULYSSESROOM.com),

9. Visit Bethesda, MD.

10. Grab lunch at National Harbour (get into the Capital Wheel), and take the ferry/water taxi to Old Town Alexandria.

My visit to GEORGETOWN SIGNATURE EVENT

(Photo credit to http://www.georgetowndc.com)

Each spring, the Book Hill neighbourhood of Georgetown celebrates the annual Georgetown French Market.

Apparently is supposed to be one of the District's most anticipated shopping weekends, as it marks the triumphant return of the spring season. For that reason my mom, boyfriend and I decided to go out and explore the locally-owned merchants, after having brunch at Deans and DeLuca’s.

As we strolled down Wisconsin Avenue, we stumbled upon a street that had the most beautiful brownstones and blooming trees. The color of the buildings contrasted by the pinks, whites and even lilac hues of the flower trees was without a doubt picturesque. And as we made our way to P Street and Reservoir Road, where the galleries are located, we discovered the emblematic ideal of what this area represents. Galleries display art and so do the outside walls – street art. So, obvi we had to take some shots as we walked through this cute neighbourhood.

It was the last weekend in April under the perfect weather (sunny and bright), and the neighbourhood resembled an inviting open-air market full of boutiques, restaurants, salons and galleries displaying discounted items and unique finds. The evening featured live entertainment with music over the streets and children's activities. It evoked european style and the outdoor markets of Paris where guests like ourselves wander between shops and art works, as we were tempted by the aroma of fresh coffee and french pastries like croissants, sweet and savory crepes, grilled merguez sausages, and macarons.

#ooh la la #eveningstroll #chicmarket #washingtondc #eventunderthesun #openpublic #lastweekendofApril #french fare

THE POWER OF STORYTELLING: The promise of adventure and the feeling of imagination

I first developed my love of stories from my parents. The fondest memories I have from my childhood involve my father telling me bedtime stories with a great extent of creativity. He would enthusiastically tell them from memory, embellishing them with sound effects, dramatic pauses and movements, while emphasizing details with elaborate descriptions making the stories come alive.

Maya Angelou once said “People would forget what you said, people would forget what you did, but people would never forget how you made them feel...” Stories do that to people. At least that is what it did to me.

To this day I will always remember my father’s compelling tone that contribute to the essence of his mesmerizing narration, as he installed me with a passion for literature.

He almost never tripped over words, and he endowed every sentence with the right inflection. Interestingly, he didn’t go out of his way to do different voices, yet he made them all different somehow. With an upbringing like that it’s no accident that I learned to read at an early age, and was soon asking my parents to take me to the bookstore for an evening in the stacks. As a young child, I would dream about all the stories that my father shared, envisioning the person that I wanted to become and the type of life that I wanted to create for myself. They all gave me a sense of belonging, inspiring me to do all great things. Stories motivated me to create aspirations of my own for the brighter future. For me, they seemed as a reflection of the profound human need to comprehend patterns of life — not merely as an intellectual exercise but as a personal, emotional experience. They grant an emotionally connection with my love ones as they reach me with a bigger picture.

My mother introduced me to the wonderful world of interactive/transmedia storytelling through music, movies, dance and theater, which made appreciated the arts in general. They gave me such a deep understanding, as they brought with it an abundance of happiness, soothing the soul even when times were hard. After all, stories can be told and treasure in different forms… Movies transported me to different places, learning about history, different cultures and traditions. Music distributed a social force, rallying power, transmitting messages and overall changing my values. Dance gave me strength, flexibility and discipline to achieve anything that I would set my mind to. And lastly, but not least theater enlightened me with poetry, giving me a humbling and energizing experience that lead me to play roles, connecting with people, as I overcame by fear of ‘stage fright’ gaining confidence.

Today, my love for storytelling has no boundaries and continues to grow and blossom with every passing day. Stories encourage me to travel through the passage of time seeking and bringing back all the fairy tales, legends, myths and personal memories. They inflected me with a sea of knowledge, inviting me to believe in possibilities and just expanding my perceptions.

I once read a line that goes like this:

“You are the books you read the films you watch, the music you listen to, the people you meet, the dreams you have, the conversations you engage in. You are what you take from these…”

It all resonated with my artistic spirit. Therefore, by the time I got into college I knew I wanted to do something with Literature or Journalism. It was only natural that I wanted to tell my own stories as I enter the field. An English major came to mind, although later did I recognized that writing wasn’t my strong suit. However, that didn’t stop my interest and enthusiasm, so I decided to pursue a degree in Public Relations with a minor in Electronic Journalism. I knew that English as a second language was going to be a challenge but I wanted to improve my writing and be able to transport people into an atmosphere full of insight. Soon enough storytelling became my unavoidable fervor. I was going for freelance gigs at the Fourth Estate Newspaper (writing columns and covering events), participating at a writing contest to win tickets for New York Fashion Week and so on. Writing became so naturally and transactional. I knew I was at the right place.

#a little bit of me #thisishowitstarted #self discovery

A visit to the number one C & C in the area: Katie’s Cars & Coffee in Great Falls, Va

It looks like the bat mobile and has a price tag that would make even Bruce Wayne wince. A loud revving nearly $600,000 Lamborghini Aventador was the most hotly observed vehicle at Katie’s Cars and Coffee on Saturday.

The matte black color alone made this car stand out stealing just as much attention this time around. It’s screaming 7.0 liter V12 machine left car enthusiasts with their mouthwatering as they gazed at the impeccable engine, aside from the squared pipes of the quad-exit Armytrix system and it’s complete aero kit.

“To help bring that rear end closer to the ground, I have extended four of the fins on the stock diffuser with elongated sections and then connected with a sub-diffuser– effectively giving a second layer to the extremities,” said owner Mark Smith, looking at his car with a smile. “I hope other car lovers such as myself enjoy from my work.”

Setting next to the Aventador was the three-box runabout racer, a true collectible. A rusty but still intact white Datsun 510 Station Wagon.

“What makes the Datsun 510 an enduring platform for those who like driving is its simplicity, durability and flexibility,” owner Bill Mercker said.

Most of us think of the two-door sedan, front grille and it’s four round headlights when we think of a Datsun 510, but the station wagon has been gaining ground among collectors.

“In a time where economy meant driving around in a wheezy compact, the Datsun offered more,” said Michael Richardson, a huge fan of Japanese car. “Fully independent suspension has set the compact Datsun apart from its solid-axle competitors. It has the classic box like, Japanese domestic market (JDM) look, which makes it memorable. It is also one of the most rare Datsuns in America. I love this car so much! People don’t understand how rare that car is … it is so underrated but so beautiful! It has such great bodylines, and has the air of a classic Japanese car!”

Other creations that pulled into the special automobile assemblage were Maseratis, Mercedes Benz, Aston Martins, Porsches, Corvettes, two F-40 Ferraris, and the iconic AC Cobra 427 owned and signed by Carroll Shelby.

“What makes Katie’s so special, is that it doesn’t matter what the car is. If it’s unique and it’s a love of yours, I can guarantee that somebody else here will love it too,” said Mike Kearney, owner of Katie’s Coffee House.

It is an affluent place where different crops feel free to bring what they have and show it to other enthusiasts. There is always a mix of hot rods built by owners, costume-made designs, traditional English rides and of course, some Japanese furious that adds more flavor to the motorsports fest.

“It’s interesting to see its wonderful progression,” said Lizzy Patel, resident of Great Falls, Va.

What once started as a small group assembly, and was inspired by the early morning gathering that is popular in California, is now converted into a massive interactive family environment for everyone to come.

“I gather with friends every other Saturday to watch the wide range of pretty cool vehicles from oldie classics to modern models,”

Patel said. “It’s crazy to even think about the value that these have, not to mention the amount of money spent in such installations.”

#eventforcarlovers #katiesc&c #showwhatyougot #fuelandgear #funsaturdays

http://www.washingtonpost.com/posttv/local/virginia-is-for-cars-and-coffee-lovers/2014/10/23/8e42dd4c-5a65-11e4-9d6c-756a229d8b18_video.html

Katie's Cars and Coffee Featured in the Washington Post - Katie's Cars & Coffee

Mouthwatering Snacks

Dairy to Dream: Homemade Greek Yo

Ingredients: A good amount of BERRIES (your preference) the more the better, CRUNCHY GRANOLA ( I always get mine at Whole Foods-they have a great variety), NATURAL HEMP SEEDS (aside from your yogurt, you can sprinkle them on your salad, and cereal… you can find them at Whole Foods as well, I get an orange package of the brand MANITOBA HARVEST hemp foods called:HEMP HEARTS RAW SHELLED HEMP SEEDS), ORGANIC HONEY, GREEK YOGURT (preferably NON-FAT CHOBANI PLAIN 0% or LOWFAT FAGE total 2%) and voilà there you have it! {ENJOY}.:* <3

FRENCH TOAST

Description: 7-GRAIN BREAD, EGG BATTER, MARKET FRUITS, WHIPPED BUTTER & PURE MAPLE SYRUP

SMASHED AVOCADO TOAST BENEDICT

Description: 2 POACHED EGGS, CURRIED HOLLANDAISE, AVOCADO SMASHED WITH CURRY, MUSTARD SEED, AND LIME SERVED WITH ROASTED POTATO HASH

A Beautiful Italian Creation

Store-made dough that's thin with sweet tomatoes and chewy-melty mozzarella describes the makings of this simple Fresh Mozzarella, Heirloom Tomato and Basil’s pizza. I added some complementary Avocado, Cilantro Herb, and Green Pepper for more flavor. Lastly, I spread a touch of :CREMA all’ “ACETO BALSAMICO di Modena I.G.P” (product from EATALY)

(photo courtesy of PINTEREST)

The Classic Açaí Bowl: super antioxidant-rich breakfast or dessert… you decide! It’s the perfect after-beach sesh, GO TRY IT!

Another healthy kick alternative is:

A fresh salad with lettuce, walnuts, banana peppers, cucumber, strawberries, spinach, almonds, blackberries, cheery tomatoes, baby carrots, quinoa, broccoli and mushrooms. And a green smoothie made of pineapple, chai seeds, coconut oil, almond milk (I suggest to buy ALL NATURAL Blue Diamond Almonds: Almond Breeze), banana and spinach.

Other of my favorite yummy goodness are:

coconut water, spirulina, goji berries, macs powder, shredded coconut, raw cacao, bee pollen, green tea blended with chamomile, lavender & rosebuds- a lulling infusion of rose petals, valerian root & citrusy herbs to which eyelids willingly succumb (sometimes I mingle with calming lemon balm and used raw agave, honey or pure stevia to sweeten it up), chai tea with soy milk and a pinch of cinnamon

And last but not least, is the Sunchoke Soup. Below↓ is the youtube video where I got the recipe from

Bon appétit,, nom nom!

#artsyfood #delicious #antioxidants #crispy #layersofhappiness #healthyeats #eatcleanlivelean #rawliving

video courtesy/ YOUTUBE

#song of the week

A month in Italy

Last summer I decided to join the Italian Media, Society and Culture study abroad program from George Mason University as part of my college years.

BEST DECISION EVER!!!

During a small amount of time (four-weeks) I got to immerse myself in Italian media and cinema, learning how it interrelates to culture and society, while getting the experience of traveling outside the country for the very first time.

The amazing exposure that I received was indescribable. My group and I were able to visit cities like:

Milan

Rome

Venice

Florence

Turin

Pompeii

and see some of the most remarkable sights in Italy. We had lectures given in English by Italian faculty from the University of Milan on specific topics and then visit related spots that contribute to the lessons. The In-class course work was supplemented with tours to several other places where we learned about Intercultural Communication, Renaissance Art, Fashion, Architecture, Commerce, and the Performing Arts.

There was something majestic about being in Italy. Like authors, Luise Fili and Lise Apatoff describe it on Italianissimo (The Quintessential Guide to What Italians Do Best)

“With the mention of the word Italy, a flood of sense memories are released: light-filled landscapes, voluptuous markets, unforgettable meals, breathtaking art, expressive language, and generous strangers-even for those who have never set foot there. This is a seductive culture which inspire undeniable romanticism, and has captured the imaginations of many. Quite simply, everything tastes better, sound better, and looks better in Italian.”

Here are some of my adventures:

https://blancinitaly.wordpress.com

{Enjoy!}

This picture was taken at the Palazzo Madama e Cassaforte degli Acaja (a palace located in Turin, northern Italy which was the first Senate of the Italian Kingdom, and takes its traditional name from the embellishments it received under two powerful queens (madama) of the House of Savory. This was by far one of my favorite excursions!!!

Being in front of the Colosseum or Coliseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre was unreal! This ambiguous amphitheatre in the centre of the capital city, Rome, gave me an extraordinary sensation that can't be explain.

For those of you who might be interested..this is why you need to go!!!

(Video credit to Khafre Barclift, promo video for CGE Study Abroad George Mason University Italy)

#studyabroad #GMU #summer2014 #EPICexperience #opportunity #bless #traveling #friendships

My New York Fashion Week Experience

They say that New York Fashion should be experience at least once. Luckily, I I have been fortunate enough to go three years in a row, which has been more than I could have EVER possibly imagine.

As someone who wants to work in the magazine industry after graduation, I’ve always dreamed of going to New York Fashion Week. But, hands down NEVER would've thought that this distant dream of mine would actually happen.

Looking back as I was doing my research for potential academia before transferring to George Mason University, I came across the Academy of Art University, the first fashion school that has premiered the collections of students and recent graduates during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week since 2005.

“We are committed to helping our students launch their careers, and as a part of that commitment we are thrilled to give students the opportunity to present their work to industry professionals during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week,” said Dr. Elisa Stephens, President of Academy of Art University.

An instant interest took place as a fashion enthusiast, of course! Weeks later, the opportunity came by when I received an email from the Academy of Art University offering me to participate in a contest for a chance to win exclusive tickets to their show.

An e-mail like this…

In case you didn't read… it consisted on writing a personal essay “describing your passion for fashion,” which I ended up doing with the smallest amount of effort (thinking that I wouldn’t be able to get it).

SERENDIPITY TO ITS FINEST

After a few days, an unexpected phone call came through, informing me that I have been selected… and at that moment, I went absolutely ecstatic, sharing the news with Paola, my longtime best friend who lives in New York .

I remember precisely our initial reaction which involve a load of chants, expressing the high levelof the excitement that we both encountered as we assimilated the pleasant surprise. We were both basically jumping over the phone, following with overjoyed lines such as: “AHHH!!! WE’RE GOING TO FASHION WEEK, WE’RE GOING TOFASHION WEEK,” (in our singing voice).

But I guess it all comes down to the real question that we all wonder… (assuming that you might be interested in fashon, DUH!)

What does it means to be there? Or better, how did it felt?

First of all…

NYFW is like the most exclusively fabulous elite of NYC.

However, I’ve learned that although NYFW is really an industry event about doing business, it’s more accessible than I originally thought. Once upon a time (okay, a year ago), Fashion Week seemed like a far off dream of mine. But I made it my reality. There are definitely opportunities for anyone interested in fashion to be involved, whether it be by volunteering at shows, or stalking live streams from your dorm room.

Coming down to my previous question…

Ultimately, I would suggest to find your ‘very’ own purpose (whether it is JUST for the experience or to add more to your portfolio). This could be, making connections with people from the industry (i.e. designers, models, photographers, editors, or even bloggers), spending your evening capturing inside scenes from the shows, conducting interviews, photographing trends in Lincoln Center or stylish attendees as they arrive, and then building slideshows and articles based on what you have found.

Figuring out for yourself the reasons behind attending, is essential to what you will make out of your of appearance/vision of NYFW.

So yeah there is really no perfect explanation of what it means. It’s rather more of a unique essence (an individual perspective to everyone) because like all things in life, we all endure differently.

For me, it meant a great deal. I’ll forever be thankful to the Academy of Art University!

Here are some of my pics through the years, hope you guys enjoy!

The view #fromwherewestood

A glimpse of FALL 2014 #heaven

Spotted the legendary Times fashion photographer Bill Cunningham ✔

As Anna Wintouronce said, "We all get dressed for Bill." And, why wouldn't we? (He actually took a picture of my outfit in FALL 2014, by the way)

We met Miss Angola 2011, Leila Lopes who became the second black African woman and the fourth black woman in the world to win the Miss Universe title at the Miss Universe 2011 competition held at Sao Paulo in Brazil.

Nemo couldn’t stop us! #FALL 2013

(Photo courtesy to Blanca Acevedo and https://instagram.com/paoluevano/)

#experience #fashiondiaries #opportunities #nyfw #MADEit!

Supermodel MARIAN GUILLEN gives us an insight scope on how she made it.

Marian Guillén was discovered soon after she participated at the Fords Super Model of the World Puerto Rico contest in 2006. At the age of sixteen, Marian was signed with Ford Models NY agency, where she started to fully escalate within the industry, getting major deals, traveling worldwide, while enjoy all the perks . Currently Marian is part of the Wilhelmina Models in Miami, lives in New York City but plans to move to LA, California.

Something Good Can Work: Marian Guillén By Johnny Rozier For Rever Spring/Summer 13

model: marian guillén (request) photographer: johnny rozier stylist: johnny rozier hair and make-up: kelsey morgan

#editorial #topmodel #rever magazine #MARIAN GUILLEN #inspirational #photoshoot

Exclusive Interview with Marian Guillén (FORDS' Supermodel of the World Puerto Rico)

Greetings Marian, So tell us more about yourself and what was life like growing up?

It wasn't easy. I was the tallest and skinniest girl in my classroom, so I was bullied a lot. By the time that I got out of school, I knew the drill all too well. I was 15 when it started. But, I handled it like a tough girl. So, it didn't really bother me to a point of despair. I just kept saying to myself…"Don't let it sink in, don't let sink in. You are not the reflection of those who can't love you."

Did you always knew you wanted to pursue this career path and become a model?

I never wanted to be a model, I was pretty much a tomboy and raised in a housewhole with two brothers. So as you could imagine, being 'girly' was definitely not my thing…

I remember how people would always go to me saying: you should be a model! Of course, I took it as a compliment but in reality it seem more as if they were only saying it because of my height and skinny self. Others would always tend to refer more to as running up for the 'Miss Universe' beauty pageant, which to this day I do not take into account. Honestly, when I entered I had no idea that modelling was such a huge industry and that there are even models with different categories. Per say…those that specifically model for particular purposes, like modelling for hair products, selling shoes or nail polish, so like “toes or hand models”. When I say it like that, sounds quite hilarious but is true (haha).

When did you decide to go into the modeling industry? When exactly did you realize you had the passion for modeling?

The person who finally convinced me was Johanna Baez. A woman from the Residencial Llorens Torres, a public residential housing in Puerto Rico, who had a special agency called FMG and with the help of the government made the dreams of many young fellas with low-income families and poor resources through an organization called 'Atrevete'. She was the one who made me see another side to it, projecting a different perspective, and show me that I didn’t have to be a 'miss' in order for me to be a model and create a name for myself in the industry. Baez taught me everything I needed to know to start, including what has been my career as a model up to this date. Without doubt, her agency will forever be my modelling alma mater.

Any nominations, tittles, awards or honors that you would like to tell us about?

I won 'Ford Model Supermodel of the World Puerto Rico' back in 2006. This was a competition made by the modeling agency Ford Models and represented Puerto Rico in New York. Although, I didn’t win the competition, I was very proud of myself and for my accomplishments so far. In that very moment was when the good stuff started to air. Luckily for me, FORD signed me anyway and that’s were it really started to happen for me. Before I knew it, I was moving to New York, booking castings, traveling to the greatest cities "fashion capitals"(Paris, Milan, London, Greece)… Making Fashion Week around the world, modelling for international and well know designers/brands such as Nicole Miller, Tory Burch, Chloé, Carolina Herrera, Richard Chai, Mara Hoffman, Christian Lacroix, Afshin Feiz, Atil Kutoglu, Doo.Ri, Gustavo Arango, Alejandro Carlin, James Coviello, Michel Klein, Naeem Khan, Ruffian, among others. Since the start of your career what has been the biggest hurdle you have had to overcome? What plans or sacrifices you had set in order to make it happen?

The hardest part was being away from my family and my island …I've learned to live on a plane and no longer go to Puerto Rico constantly, but always look for ways to give myself a trip even for a weekend, but it's still difficult.

To what do you attribute your success? Tell us what you took away from your upbringing (whether is from your family values, previous experiences, etc.)

My parents always gave me wings, and let me be free to do what makes me happy. Foremost, they taught me morals (what is good and what is bad), and especially taught me to stay strong and to be courageous of all things. I recall them saying the most fundamental advice of them all: “to say 'no' is not ridiculous nor bad. Don't be afraid to step up for yourself. If you don't do it, nobody else will.”

On that basis, I became more independent. Eventually I decided to move out, and went to live on my own. Not gonna lie, it was challenging but thanks to my parents I have been able to survive and excel in a rough, competitive environment in which you see many things. Lets just say that a 16 year old girl alone in New York without values or principles would have not been able to fully comprehend what is going on or know what decisions are right and would’ve probably be found in many of the situations where I was. So I'm forever grateful for my parents. For raising me with the right amount of discipline and positive engagement while still being goofy and liberals.

How would you describe your personal style, where do you pull your inspiration from?

My style is simple, I think less is more…I have a little bit of gypsy in me, like some sort of bohemian vibe within. I believe that comfort is the most important aspect when it comes to pulling out a garment. I wear what I like, and what makes me feel good. Nothing too experimental either risqué to my taste. I don’t take many chances when it comes to dressing up. I flow with simplicity.

What do you enjoy most about being a model and who are some of your biggest influences in the modelling world?

The richest feeling that I get from my career is that you can designate in many areas, different places, meet numerous people, and learn from so many cultures, while practicing what you love doing. It’s really a blessing. I get paid to travel, what else can I ask for? I've always like think of traveling as an universal college where you get to know what you really like, find yourself and grow as a person. It’s amazing! I think that young people should be given the opportunity to meet, greet and travel instead of just leaving school and going straight to college. One of the nicest thing is to reach any country and know you will have a friend waiting with open arms.

What’s your philosophy in life?

Live and let live.

What are some of your tips and advice for those aspiring models out there?

I would say…find a good agency and not starve yourself. Stay away from drugs, say ‘no’ to plastic surgery and do not take it seriously … at the end of the day it is a short-term job not lifelong. Absorb all the knowledge that you can, from all the exposure you can possibly get. Everything counts! Make connections, the more…the better! Take chances but be aware of the outcomes and future horizons. Be ahead, work hard, have confidence with yourself, trust you guts and have fun.

How often do you work out and what are some of your best health and fitness tips that keep you looking radiant and glowing?

Yicks! I never do exercises. However, I do try to eat healthy and occasionally have a yoga session to relax. But nothing out of the ordinary. If I crave something not so healthy, I eat it too, I thank God for my metabolism (haha).

What are some of your latest and upcoming projects? (campaigns, photo shoots, runway shows)

I am currently in Mexico, this weekend. I’m shooting for Calvin Klein Mexico, just did a campaign for Zingara Swimwear, and was featured in the November 2014 Mexico Vogue issue posing for Lorena Saravia, a minimalist designer who won the first edition of Vogue Who's On Next and plans on opening her first store in Mexico. I think my next step is to soon move to Los Angeles. LA awaits me, among other things …

Name a few of your favorite designers and photographers you have worked with from the beginning of your career? (You can add others that you would like to work with)

I love too many, if I start the list I would probably never end. I don't have preferences lol

Any top beauty secrets you what to share with our readers?

Absolutely! I wash my scalp with white vinegar, put some rosemary oil afterwards through the scalp and the apply coconut oil only on my ends as an overnight remedy. It’s wonderful!

Another tip that I would suggest is to try aloe vera for the face as an overnight mask treatment or to drink it with honey and lemon … is miraculous!

Today, Marian Guillén is represented by Wilhelmina Models, which is one of the most prominent talent management agencies in the world. We certainly believe she has what it takes to continue her success in every task that she propose along the way. After all, headlines have been saying… "New York's young design brigade has latched on to FORD's new stunner from Puerto Rico, Marian - the 5'10" beauty has already racked up major options for Fashion Week after only a week in the United States," said THEFASHIONSPOT.COM.

Photo credits to Wilhelmia Models, Johnny Rozier (fashion editor/photographer of © RÊVER MAGAZIN for his amazing 'Something Good Can Work,' March 2013 photoshoot. Nevertheless, we want to give a big thanks to our tropical beauty, Ms. Guillén herself, for supporting our blog, grating us permission to published some of her beautiful pictures, but mostly for sharing her story. We wish you the best of luck in your future projects and know that you will continue to progress as your further go.

#supermodel #unhiddentalent #inspirational

Fashion blogger/wedding photographer who is ready to take more on her plate as she continues to progress on her businesses. Find her on Instagram @agirlnamednydia

#itgirl #march2015

Meet our IT GIRL of the month: Nydia E. Mercado

She describes herself as a 27 year-old, who feel fortunate to be married to her best friend Jayson and is mother of the most adorable (and overwhelming) dachshund ever named Guiffi.“I grew up in a small town in the east coast of Puerto Rico in a house surrounded by women and my dad, being the youngest of 4 daughters,”said Nydia. “I’m a part-time wedding photographer, book junkie, music enthusiast who is obsessed with Paramore, The Walking Dead and Paris.”

For those who haven’t heard, she is an amazing fashionista! One that has establish a deep love and connection with photography since high school, but didn’t consider it as a professional career. “It wasn’t something I planned but happened in the long run, and I’m glad I did!,”said Nydia. “I started studying Psychology and after 2 years in my bachelor my creative self decided to take a leap into Advertising. Like everyone, I had many ups and downs during the process and it took me a while to get here but once I started doing wedding photography and blogging was like finding my own little place in the world.”She believes that investing your time and life in something that you’re passionated about and enjoy doing, is fully essential… and that is, what she eventually decided to do! “Fashion wise, I’ve always looooved playing dress up, so mixing both was just the perfect idea,”said Nydia. When we asked her about the sacrifices that she took upon herself as she became a fashion blogger/wedding photographer, she explained: “Changing a career was a big part of it all. It wasn’t an easy decision but once made, everything started to fall into place,” said Nydia.

Recently she was featured in Refinery29, under a fashion piece called ‘The Party-Dress Trend That Will Set Your Outfit Apart’. Ana Colon, staff writer for the R29 online page, comments: “Nydia Mercado breaks out her feathered skirt for special occasions (this #OOTD was snapped on her birthday). But, the blogger plays down the eye-catching piece with a navy sweater, making it daytime appropriate.”Fashion blogger herself responded: “I was thrilled! That was extremely amazing… I’ve been a fan of their page for quite a while and seeing myself there was too much,”said Nydia. As if this was too little of an exposure, she has also been featured in other cool social media outlets such as: The Cut NYMagazine, Chictopia’s main page, and appeared in Baublebar’s Instagram (her favorite online jewellery shop). “When I contemplated the idea of starting a blog back in 2010, one of the things I put a lot of effort on was in choosing the name. I didn’t want it to be too cliché or restricting. Other than fashion, in my blog I write about life experiences, travels, music, book recommendations and all my favorite things that make up who I am as a person, so what better name than: a girl named Nydia!?” Getting into a more in-depth convo, she spoke about her loves ones, being her number one supporters. She added saying: “in occasions they believe more in me, than myself.” However, I do always try to be better and trust the knowledge I acquired during my college years, studying photography/design.

My husband is the most hardworking, intelligent and funniest person I know, he inspires me to be myself and believe in my talents every single day.

Nydia finds it difficult to define her personal style in just one word. Mostly, she considers her style being feminine, fun and comfortable! As she explained: “I love creating affordable looks for the everyday gal!,” said Nydia.”I dress in a way that represents me and how I’m feeling. If I’m inspiring others along the way, then thats even better!! “Her inspiration comes from all sorts of places. The music that she listen too, the books she reads, other blogs and Pinterest, which is her main source of influence. “I just enjoy all the process. Taking potos, editing, writing and of course dressing up! Is the perfect mix of all my favorite things. Of course, inspiring other girls to be themselves and being confident in what they wear, is my foremost goal whenever I’m composing a fashion column or posting a new photo, “said Nydia.

My style motto is to find new ways to wear what I already have. Re-wearing helps your creativity and is the key of versatility!! Also, have fun and don’t be afraid to wear something uncommon or different.

WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT NYDIA? Keep reading below,or be sure to check out her blog at

http://agirl-namednydia.blogspot.com

, and follow her on instagram @agirlnamednydia

For more photos and details about her wedding and engagement services,please visit:

http://photosbynm.blogspot.com/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nydiamercadophotos

Life philosophy:

“Live a life you would love to remember!”

Are you open to try new stuff or would you rather stick to basics and what you already like?

“Evolving and trying new trends is part of being a fashion/personal style blogger. Finding your own personal style is a process that takes time. Is about having a balance between trendy items and basics that you can re-wear and style in endless ways.

City with best street fashion?

I’m obsessed with California and Spanish bloggers! They have such a simple and effortless style, but it is also very fun!! Some of my favorites Devon Rachel, Grasie Mercedes (stylemegrasie.com) Alexandra from Lovely Pepa and Priscilla from My Showroom blog.

What would you say is the perfect paring?

A shirt dress pair with ankle booties or cool sneakers bold lips and wide brim hat!!”

Do you like to layer things up and perhaps mix and match pieces or would you prefer to go with classic statements, a minimalistic approach, embracing simplicity?

All of the above. It all depends of the day, my mood and of course the weather. My favorite has to be mixing and matching textures and print. Best way to take your outfit for boring to awesome!!

Do you have a signature look? (whether is makeup or a particular style that you always relay on)

I always rely on a red lip! It so classic and always makes a look stand out! What are your ideal investments pieces? (handbags, shoes, jewelry, or clothes) I’ve been dreaming a lot of a YSL monogram velvet handbag and a pair of Lovely Karen Walker northern light sunnies!

Which ones are you favorites or MUST HAVE ítems?

Statement jewelry, hats and a great jacket! All these can make a statement either together or separately.

Never leave home without__________.

My camara! haha…

Heels of flats?

I have to say flats (I’m wearing ones right know)… wierd I know!

Most successful ingredient of your brand? What were the major milestones that gave you that extra motivation boost?

I never thought about a particular “ingredient,” I think that the key is when you connect with people, and they notice, whether is complementing my style or how I dress. Receiving emails and comments from my readers, is what gives me that extra motivation boost, (It makes me so happy every time I read them!) because I get to acknowledge a level of appreciation for my work and just makes me want to continue progressing, surpassing any obstacle that comes along the way. Success can be defined in so many ways! Having some sort of photography knowledge and basic design skill also has helped!

What are some of your tips and advice for those aspiring fashionistas/style gurus out there?

For new bloggers is important to have clear goals and post constantly. Always believe in yourself and in your talents. Be persistence and never, ever give up! Oh! And social media is your best friend, so use it well!

You always look so beautiful and stylish….Any beauty secrets you what to share with our readers?

Oh thank you that’s so sweet! It’s not much of a secret but being happy and smiling constantly helps you be and feel confident on yourself, making you look beautiful in your own skin( inside & out). Also my Neutrogena Deep clean cleanser, scrub and Olay moisturizer might help too! Haha… What are some of your latest and upcoming projects? (campaigns, special events, editorials for magazines, photo shoots, runway shows…) I recently assisted to several local fashion events, including an event hosted by Nordstrom which is opening a new store here in the Island. Getting to know all the details and people working to make this happen was super fun. Also, My best friend Lianne recently started a blog (thezingmatter.com) and we have been planning several projects together! Entering the world of youtube videos is going to be very exciting!

Since the start of your career what has been the biggest hurdle you have had to overcome?

Finding balance between my job, blogging and personal time. Always trying to find new content and not become boring or monotonous.

Name a few favorite designers and photographers that you have worked with? (You can add others that you would like to work with in the future)

I have never worked with any of these talented people but they are some of my favorite!

Photographers: Elizabteh Messina, Jose Villa and Once Wed.

Designers: Elie Saab and Diane Von Furstenberg.

#it girl #fashionblogger #engagement and wedding photographer #girlboss

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