It is officially the holiday season! We are seriously so happy and feel beyond blessed to be settled in to our new home, especially in time for the holidays. Decorating is so much more fun during this time of year. So, to get in the spirit, I decide to spruce-up my kitchen dining room table to seem like I’m fancy. 😉 I have to be honest- we RARELY eat at the kitchen table, and instead, at the kitchen island or downstairs. So staging my dining room table just makes sense, considering I can just leave it how it is. Now that I have it set, I feel a sense of completion. It fills decorating space in our open kitchen-dining room- and living room area. But it also shows a sense of living- like someone ACTUALLY lives here.
While keeping it set may not seem practical for some (especially if you have kiddos), I highly recommend investing in decor that will allow you to whip it together if needed for a family-function or when friends are visiting. And what’s even better is that you don’t have to spend a ton of money to make it look nice!!
Here are a few tips for decorating a tablescape and dining room on a budget:
Hit up Dollar Tree!! They have amazing dinnerware for only $1 each. This is where I got my gold-rimmed dinner plates.
Use pops of color. I chose copper, as it bleeds over from the theme in my kitchen and ties it all together. And on that note: don’t be afraid to mix metallic tones. I have hints of silver, gold, AND copper.
Choose between a table runner or place settings. Not both. Too much going on. In fact, I always lean towards a table runner because it lengthens the table and is easy on the eyes so your entire table isn’t covered.
If you have windows in your dining room, use decorative curtains. NO valences, as they are a thing of the past. And don’t go too crazy with the curtain patterns and colors. Keep it simple.
My favorite tip of all- use curtains that go all the way from the ceiling to the floor. I have 9ft ceilings, so I used 108″-long curtains. This will give the illusion that your ceilings are taller than what they are and lengthen the room.
Put a rug under your table. And make sure it is larger than the table itself, because if it is smaller, your room will appear smaller.
If you have a smaller dining area like I do, use a bench on one side of the table instead of chairs. Not only will this open the space up a bit, but it will also give some styling variation and edgy-vibes.
I’m tagging my dinnerware, wine glasses, kitchen furniture, Christmas tree, curtains, and EVERYTHING else below.
Its been over a month since my FIRST blogiverary. And I am finally getting around to the most requested blog post. Which is truly reflective of this lifestyle’s craziness! The busyness never ends when it comes to being an influencer, and I am here to share some blogging tips and tricks I have learned along the way.
There is often a misconception that bloggers/influencers don’t work hard. “All they do is shop, act basic, and take pictures of their outfits.” But honey, IT 👏🏻 IS 👏🏻 SO 👏🏻 MUCH 👏🏻 MORE 👏🏻 THAN 👏🏻 THAT! Behind every photo is a story- and hours of work to get the content posted. Below is just a SMALL portion of what we do as influencers:
Come up with new content
Find items online to tag for you guys to shop
Shop for looks for myself
Website coding, configuration, and organization (behind-the-scenes that most people forget about)
Write blog posts
Multi-hour photoshoots
Travel to events and photoshoots
Organize brand collaborations
Respond to emails, DMs, comments
Post to all social media platforms
Tag photos, hashtag to no-end
Create clever captions
Engage with other bloggers/influencers
So, you can see there is so much work, and a lot of people do this on top of working full-time, running a household, raising kids, and trying having a social life. You wouldn’t believe the amount of time and work I put into Type A Style. I am building a brand, so an easy way doesn’t exist. Plus, my perfectionist ways often times gets the best of me, so it takes me that much more time to complete.
I get so many questions from fabulous followers like you about how to start a blog, how to gain followers, and how to work with brands. While each these topics could be a long-post of their own, I am touching on them in my secrets below.
Website, Domains, & All thing Tech
After you have come up with a clever name for your blog, one of the first things you need to do is call dibs on rights to your name. That means for a website and all social media platforms. Go ahead and create an Instagram handle with your desired name and sign up for rights to the website domains. That way, no one else can grab it before you do! You can always come back to it if you don’t have time to start it right away, but getting rights to your name first will guarantee it for you.
Now, this aspect of blogging is not fun. In fact, it is what took me the longest in the beginning. If you are like me, and do not have a programming background, the terms, directions, and coding of website design is totally confusing. But it is something you MUST learn. I spend HOURSSSSS deep in coding, tutorials, and self-teachings to learn how to even begin a website.I use a website hosting site called Siteground that houses my domain and connects it to my WordPress site. This was super helpful in starting, as it made the setup of my site easy and user-friendly.To sign up with Siteground, follow the link HERE to get started. And if you have any questions along the way, always feel free to reach out to me for some guidance. Although I do not claim to be a professional, I will try my best to help. There are a lot of website hosts that you can use for a blog. There’s Blogger, WordPress, Wix. I personally use WordPress, as do many other bloggers and it works well for me. Plus it syncs well with Siteground for easy website configurations.
Investment
Please note: there are going to be fees you must pay in the beginning to get started. Fees for your blog’s template to make it look pretty and organized, yearly fees to own your website domain(s), and with hosting websites such as Siteground, there are annual fees to pay as well. But trust me, the initial (and continual) investment is worth it to make your page of substantial quality. And remember, you are investing in not only a website, but your BRAND- and that is what is important.
How to Grow Followers
What everyone really wants to know if how to grow followers. I could really write an entire post on this in itself, which I may do at a later date. But to save the anticipation, here are a few pieces of advise to grow your following:
Know Your Audience
I am a Senior Business Analyst by trade, so I am a numbers girl at heart. Maybe it is just my experience or love for numbers, but analytics is EXTREMELY important. Analyzing your stats, followers, stories, Pins, blog posts, and everything that drives traffic to your page and social medias is so important. There are so many tools available through Instagram, Engagement apps, Google Analytics, and your Website Host that can give you insight into your following, their demographics, best times to post, and how your posts are reaching your followers. There are so many reporting metrics available to you: so use them! This has helped me GREATLY when trying to increase my following and engagement. This is how you get to know your audience and then build your content around that.
Quality Photos
The first thing a follower notices about you is your photos. Invest in a good camera or make friends with someone who has one. This will help with content photos in your blog posts and create a sense of professionalism on your page. I use a Canon Rebel T6 DSLR camera, which is beginner-friendly and not too expensive. I also use a 50mm f/1.8 lens to give my photos more of a bokeh effect (which is that blurred background you see in professional photos). However, you can achieve good photo quality with an iPhone as well. In fact, I have found that my iPhone photos are more successful than my fancy camera photos. This is because people love things that are obtainable- and access to an iPhone is much easier to most than a DSLR. So do what works for you and your audience will grow based around that.
Instagram Bio
Second to your photos, followers see your Instagram Bio. This is really important- because it is what details who you are and what your page is all about. Here is where you want to outline yourself- a little about your personal life and who you are, what you offer through your brand, and how to get in contact with you.
Have fun with this! Don’t treat this as a resume- have fun with it and throw in some character and sassiness through creativity and humor.
As you see from my bio, I have first outlined who I am- so a little about my personal life. I’m a Christian and wife and I have a dog. So I outlined these 3 important things about me in a creative way.
Next is what I offer through my brand. The purpose of Type A Style is fashion and interior design on a budget. So, to make it fun, I give myself a job-title for these 2 passions of mine. Next is where I am located, which is a must- as you can gain attraction based on your geographic location. People love to follow locals. And last, I have directions on how to contact me, how to reach my blog, and how to gain access to shop my outfits, which I reference often in my posts.
Use Hashtags and Tag Brands
You are given 20 accounts you can tag per Instagram photo and 30 hashtags to use. Use them wisely- and use ALL of them. Tag your post with as many accounts as you can that correlate to your photo. Tag where you got your entire outfit, your makeup brands, your shampoo and hair products. If you are at a restaurant or store, tag not only the Location in the photo, but also the store/restaurant’s Instagram themselves. This is how to get brands to notice you, as I will go into more detail below.
Stories
Instagram Stories are a GREAT way to interact with your followers. Honestly, I receive more engagement and response from my stories than I sometimes do from a post. People love to see the behind-the-scenes actions of the often-staged photos you post to your feed. Plus, the sense of reality that comes with stories is what attracts and KEEPS followers. This is where people truly get to know you and shows them that there is more to your life than the outfits you post to your feed.
Consistency
Another way to grow engagement is to be consistent. Instagram is no longer a basic app- it is super complex with all its algorithms and such, so gaining peoples attention is that much harder. Therefore, posting consistently is that much more important. Do what works best for you- I personally try to post 1-2 times per day. And using apps such as Prime, you are able to figure out which time of says are best to post to gain the most engagement.
Engagement
Speaking of engagement, social media is ALL about getting what you give. You put in a lot of time and effort, you will receive the same back in return from your followers. This is something I struggle with, not because I don’t love my followers and the blogger community, but it is VERY difficult to keep up with the demand of replying to ALL. However, the more your respond and engage with your followers, the ore they are likely to stick around and engage with you!
Giveaways
I like to get involved with some sort of giveaway each month. Not only is this a chance to broaden your audience, but it is also a networking opportunity with other bloggers.
Business Account
There is a debate around this topic, on whether switching your Instagram to a business account affects your follower count or not. And to be honest- I don’t even pay attention to those discussion. Based on my experience, it has only helped. And even if it didn’t, I still like the idea of the business account. Not only does it make your page look professional, but it also gives you access to some amazing analytics that a personal account cannot provide. And as I mentioned earlier, this is SUPER important in your growth.
Working with Brands
Second to growing followers, everyone wants to know how to collaborate with brands. And honestly, 98% of the brands I work with have reached out to me. There has been no searching my behalf. This is all because of
the tricks I mentioned earlier on how to grow your followers. Using all the same techniques, I am able to get my name out there for brands to see. How to get brands to notice you does take some action. For example: tagging and using hashtags is so important to get brands to notice you. It is how they find their products in use. And through that, they will then reach out to you if they are interested in a collaboration. And once you get a couple brand collabs under your belt, other brands see that and then the growth continues from there. If it is taking you a while to get noticed by brands, don’t get discouraged. In the meantime, work on bettering your photos and photo quality, growing your followers, and perfecting your website. It will all come in time, so just remain patient, work on bettering yourself, and don’t get discouraged.
Some Apps I Use
Lightroom: photo editing
VSCO: photo editing app with LOTS of filters to give you that consistent “preset” look on your Instagram page
Google Analytics: This will show insights into traffic to your blog. This is very insightful and data is detailed.
Preview: This is my Instagram post planner. It allows me to layout my Instagram photos and see what it will look like with futureposts.
Instagram: I use Instagram Analytics often to track and understand my audience, engagement, best times to post, etc.
Prime: this is another app to use to find the best times to post for each day of the week. This is based upon YOUR Instagram analytics that the app calculates on the back end.
BE REALISTIC
That is what connects people- reality. Not some fake-attitude with overpriced pieces no one can afford. Don’t act humble, them post some $350 dress that clearly no one can afford. Because trust me- 95% of your followers are not going to relate or engage in your content, and in turn, decreasing your popularity.
There are times when I get completely burnt out. It is truly difficult to maintain a full time job, household, family life, social life, AND a blog. Because the issue with being an influencer is you are ALWAYS at work. It truly never stops. And while I wouldn’t change it for the world, my perfectionist ways (hence the TYPE-A) sometimes gets the best of me and causes me to shut down. While this is all for fun, I approach this blog thing as a business opportunity, and always have since the idea was sparked, so I take it very seriously. When i can’t get the shot right, or I am running out of content, or have a collaboration deadline i have to meet and having writers block and just want to give up. It’s just like when your college, and your paper is due by midnight, and you just started the day of and it’s 9PM and you only have the intro written. Literally, things have not changed and I still try and cram it all in. And sometimes, forcing it just makes it worst. So my suggestion- (which I need to take my own advice sometimes) is to just relax!! This is all for fun, and you should enjoy every opportunity you make. While you may be your own worst enemy, don’t allow the devil on your shoulder to shut you down. Meet the deadlines, don’t wait for the last minute, and most of all- DON’T PRESSURE YOURSELF!
How to deal with the follow-unfollow game
I got this question from a sweet follower and I wanted to answer, because I am sure a lot of people have this same question. At first, when you are just wanting to see some sort of growth in your following, it is so frustrating to see these types of games other bloggers play. Essentially, it is a method THEY think is successful to gain followers. They are banking on the engagement rule, which most nice bloggers like us abide by: you give me a follow, most of the time, I will follow you back to support other girls in this blogging world. However, they will then UNFOLLOW you immediately after, or if they notice you don’t follow them back right away. This pity game is annoying to all of us. And like I said earlier, when I first got started, I took this game seriously and was offended by the unfollows and would do the same in return. However, I have come to realize that these types of pages are notthe type of followers you want anyways. If they are willing to play follow-fishing and unfollow you for a snap at a follow back, then they are only here for themselves and will not help provide any sort of engagement with you in the long run. And to be honest- engagement is a lot of times more important than the number of followers you have anyways. So try not to worry about that dreaded “follower count”.
Competitive Vibes
That being said, there are going to be some negativity that comes from being in the “spotlight”. Many girls suffer from self-esteem issues that bleeds over into their relationships with other girls, and therefore, creates a competitive atmosphere. And in the blogging world, there are LOTS of these cases. Many feel that because THEY have a blog, others cannot be successful with one of their own. REALITY CHECK: There are a MILLION other blogs and bloggers out there so there isn’t one in particular who rules the blogging society. And while that may seem daunting, it is just a reminder to BE YOURSELF. Everyone has their own story to tell, and if you remain TRUE TO YOURSELF, people will want to listen. Don’t be blinded by those who try and put you down or compete with you. Just consider it a form of flattery- because apparently you’re interesting enough for them to even care. 😉
While I do not wish misfortune to these unhappy gals who claim “ownership” of the blogging world, I do believe good things come to those who aren’t petty. Don’t be tacky or fake- because that shit is annoying. People can read right through it, just like they can your insecurities. Don’t get caught up on how “perfect” you may think someone else’s page looks- because let’s be honest- Instagram is all for show. It’s when an influencer allows you “behind the scenes” that makes them successful. Allow others to influence your creativity to come up with a new idea, because after all, we aren’t called influencers for no reason. If you need help, reach out to someone you admire and ask for advice. And help those that reach out to you, offering kind words and advice with an open heart just like you would like to receive. I try my best to give words of encouragement for those who reach out to me for blogging advice. It is important that we lift each other up in positivity, kind words, and endearing compliments, because we cannot do this alone. Who runs the world? GIRLS do- so lets do it together!(I can’t be motivational without a Beyonce lyric thrown in there haha!)
BE YOURSELF
I mentioned this earlier, but it is so important that I want to bring it up again. Don’t compare yourself to others. You are on your own path. Stay completely true to yourself! You have your own story to tell, and trust me, people are going to want to listen so stay true to yourself and everything else will fall into place.
It seems that I always stock up on Sephora products whenever a sale rolls around. It is not only a great time to replenish my favorites, but also a great time to try out new items! Since the last Beauty Insider Event, I have changed my makeup routine a bit, so I am sharing my new faves and go-to’s with y’all below!
I have been a Kylie LipKit fan since day one- however, I recently discovered Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick, and I’m addicted. It is a very similar formula to Kylie’s, but I notice Smashbox lasts longer. Because matte is my fave, Kylie and Smashbox both
My fave colors: Big Spender / Babe Alert / Girl Gang / Vino Noir
When pairing with the Smashbox Liquid Lipstick, the Sephora Collection Gel Lip Liner is a MUST! In fact, it is so good, I pair it with ANY lipstick! Something about the gel formula makes application so smooth and I am obsessed. And there is such a large color selection to choose from, which makes it easy to pair with any lipstick color.
My fave colors: Rose Wine / Wine-O
Side Note: I used to NEVER wear lip liner. It was a foreign concept to me, and I felt like my hand were not steady enough to apply. However, once I discovered this gel liner, I found application to be very easy, and now, I can apply without a mirror!! AHHH!
This seems to be a popular mascara- and I believe a best-seller at Sephora. I have been using for the past year and it hasn’t disappointed. And they just released a GORGEOUS new package that I had to get my hands on. In honor of their 20th Year Anniversary, Too Faced released a bottle that is complete PINK GLITTER! Same formula, same price, just cooler packaging. So if you like to stock up on staple items like this mascara, make sure you crab this special-edition package to add to your collection.
Before I learned about the art of makeup, I had 2 eyeshadow colors- one for lid, and the other to go above. I know I’m not the only one that has done that! And while I am no expert still, I have branched out to using more colors, and this wonderful tool called a shading brush! I find that Tarte and Too Faced both have amazing eyeshadow palettes that are super pigmented and reasonably priced. I’m tagging my faves below.
I’ve featured this before, but it is a staple item I always stock up on during these sales, so I wanted to share it again. I use it only for my top lid, but it makes for a perfect cat-eye look.
I’ve talked about the wonders of this setting spray before, but there is an AMAZING bundle deal right now that I have to highlight! I cannot get over how good of a deal it is, because it is too good for it to be true. Okay, so what’s the deal? For $39, you get a set of TWO full-size bottles of Urban Decay’s All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray. And y’all, you can get your additional 15-or-20% off on top of that!! Regular price for this bottle is $32, so you’re practically getting an extra bottle FO FREE!!
For the longest time, I had been searching for a lighter alternative to the Fenty Foundation that I am obsessed with. Working from home, I don’t always do my makeup, so if I need to apply just a little, to feel fresh and new, this CC Cream is the perfect alternative! I am obsessed with the coverage it provides, and my skin feels so free. Its like I am not wearing anything at all.
Don’t know which color to get? No worries! There is an shade-finder option in the link. Starting with your current foundation shade from another brand, this tool matches up the IT Cosmetics CC Cream color that is a similar shade to your current product. I tried it for myself, and IT WORKS!
When I went to purchase the CC cream, the gorgeous Sephora associated suggested pairing it with the IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Finish Powder. However, I use it with all foundations! It makes my skin so silky smooth and hides all those huge pores I have covering my face. It is a miracle-worker and totally recommend.
Y’all know I live, breath, and eat this foundation. I swear by it. The coverage is amazing, and the oxidization of the formula allows it to truly form to your skin tone. This is my glam-foundation: so I apply it whenever I have a photoshoot, event, date night, etc. I used to wear it everyday, but it started to become too heavy and I needed something to help my skin breath. But for special occasions, this is the best!
Again, I have talked about this primer before. I have even tried a couple other primers since then. However, I always resort back to the ORIGINAL Smashbox Photo Finish Primer, and it never disappoints. Another staple item I stock-up on during these sales, because I use it every time I apply any sort of foundation.
One of my favorite makeup products is highlighter. Highlighter can change your entire look and make it seem like you know what you’re doing. And Becca Cosmetics has the BEST highlighter. They have lots of color options, but my fave is Champagne Pop. It is a gold-tinted shimmer that makes your face brighten up. They are available in both the regular size and travel size, so if you’re looking to try it out, the mini version is a great economical option, plus has plenty of product to last.
If you are a VIB member, you’ll get 20% off using promo code VIBBONUS now through 11/12. If you are a Beauty Insider, you’ll get 15% off using promo code BIBONUS 11/16 through 11/19.
If there is one thing I love doing- it is getting dressed up. Working from home has made my daily routine much more casual than it used to be, so I jump on any opportunity I get to dress-to-the-nines and head out of the house. Whether it is a girls night to a champagne bar or a classy date night out with my hubby, I love getting all done up.
This Type-A girl is a planner- so planning my outfits is all apart of the fun of going out. And while the outfit itself makes for a fun night, so do fabulous accessories to tie the look all together. I love to add a blingy pair of statement earrings, a bold lip, and a fancy clutch to make my entire look date-night ready. And this marble acrylic clutchfrom Marleylilly does just that. It is the perfect size to fit the necessities. Yes, I am able to fit my phone, lipstick, credit cards and ID, AND a powder compact all in that handheld box of perfection. Plus, its neutral tones allow it to match any outfit. AND FREE MONOGRAMMING!
Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you have to skimp on being glam. Marleylilly has some fabulous pieces, just like this gorgeous marble clutch, to spice up any look, all while saving your pennies! As you can see, this acrylic marble design with a metallic scripted monogram totally gives a classy vibe. Because everything is better when it’s monogrammed!
Paired with a fabulous dress, some pumps, and a smile, you will be feeling yourself all through the night with your man or best girlfriends AND a monogrammed clutch from Marleylilly!
Be sure to visit MarleyLilly.comto discover more monogrammed accessories perfect for any occasion.
*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Marleylilly. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*
A staple to every woman’s closet is a Little Black Dress. If you don’t have one- YOU NEED ONE! Not only does black favor the figure well, but it also goes with just about anything! Whether you’re dressing it up, making it casual, or needing a pop of color, a LBD is totally necessary. Plus, it’ll totally make you feel like Audrey Hepburn or Jackie O, which is every girl’s dream!
This LBD from the Julie Brown NYC collection at Swanky Shoppe is one of my favorites! Not only is the fit so flattering with the A-line style and synched wait, but tweed material makes for a classy look. And the gold metallic worked into the tweed I just can’t get enough of! Can we say GLAM?? It doesn’t get much better than that. Plus, it just gives me another reason to wear these totally crazy gold booties. Eccentric, I know- but totally FABULOUS!
I absolutely LOVE the collections from Julie Brown NYC. And thanks to Swanky Shoppe, I can shop these pieces in-person. And today and tomorrow, Swanky Shoppe is celebrating their Julie Brown Trunk Show by offering BOGO HALF OFF the Julie Brown NYC pieces. These styles are not only trendy, classy and totally fabulous- just like all of you! So head over to Swanky Shoppe to take part in this FABULOUS before the Trunk Show ends at closing on Saturday, October 20th at 4PM.
*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Swanky Shoppe in Elizabethtown, KY. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*
A couple weeks ago, I had my initial lash extension appointment with DekaLash and have since had a fill-in as well. I had such a wonderful experience, I thought I would share it with you all! I’ve had lots of questions about the specifics of eyelash extensions, so this post will be structured in a FAQs kind-of way!
My Lash Extension History
Before I begin, I want to provide a little background on my previous lash extension experience. Once of my closest girlfriends used to get her’s done frequently and they always looked so amazing! I was always in such awe at her lashes, I knew I would eventually want to get them done as well. I have always had long, dark lashes (and lots of them), so I never had much problems with volume or length as lots of women do. However, being the glam-girl I am, I wanted to try them out for myself. So a few years ago, I went and got lash extensions at a salon in my hometown. Now, I am NOT going to use my platform to trash another person or business, so I will keep their name anonymous. However, I was not pleased at all with my experience. My lashes were all glued together into several clumps, chunky, and going every which-way imaginable, making me look like a deformed spider. I was so upset, I removed them myself (which I do not recommend). In turn, damaging my lashes. This left me defeated and upset that I did not receive the results I had anticipated.
My Experience with DekaLash in Louisville, KY
Fast forward a year or so later- DekaLash reached out to me and informed me of their grand opening in Westport Village in Louisville, KY. After much research, I knew this place was legit! While they are a nationwide-brand, they franchise their locations out, so each salon is ran by their own local business owner. It gives the salon a confident, well-known vibe with a hometown, cozy personality.
When arriving to my appointment, I was greeted by several beautiful faces and checked-in using the modern iPad system. With gorgeous, sleek PINK decor all around and a modern vibe, this salon surpassed all my expectations. Each station is supplied with a comfortable bed that curves to the natural valleys of your spine, making for a therapeutic experience. Plus, they supply you with a fluffy blanket to keep you warm if it becomes too cool.
My initial set took 2 hours to complete. God blessed me with full lashes, because my technician said she could lash me for 3 hours with all my natural lashes. But with 2 hours, she was able to achieve a wonderful set that was very full and lush. She asked me what type of look I would like to achieve. And me being extra, said to make me as glam as possible! So, I received the Classic Set with a D-curl extension. As for the fill-in appointment: that took about an hour to complete. Same process, just not as long. And I go in soon for my next one. 🙂
How much do they cost?
If you are not local to Kentucky, I would recommend contacting your nearest salon for pricing. However, for all my Kentuckiana gals: at DekaLash, a classic set of lashes for new clients are regularly $79.99 or $169.99 for volume lashes, which is already a fabulous deal. However, if you mention promo code TYPEASTYLE at checkout, you can get a full set of classic lashes for $60 or volume lashes for $150. (P.S. This is a FANTASTIC deal, even better than the current promotion on Groupon. See, there are perks to following me 😉 ).
Refills (or fill-ins) are $70 and lash removal is $30. They also offer brow tinting for $24.
Also, there are memberships available for those who like their lashes looking fly 24/7. I highly recommend checking out there membership options found HERE, as it is a great way to save money AND .Sign up during your first visit and you’ll save 50% off your membership fee for the first month. Plus, the $40 sign up fee is completely waived!
How long is the appointment?
A full application will take about 2 hours, which may seem like a long time, but the technicians are fabulous and make not comfortable for you during the entire process, and the results are so worth it! Refills take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how many lashes you have lost and how long you have gone in-between appointments.
How long do they last?
The extensions are designed to last as long as your natural lashes. So when your lashes naturally fall out, as does the glued-on extension with it. I recommend getting refills every 2 to 3 weeks, as it keeps the lashes full and symmetrical.
What is the daily maintenance?
Aftercare of your lashes are very important to maintain healthy natural lashes and to help you maintain your extensions for their intended lifespan. Make sure you clean them daily, with oil-free makeup remover and/or oil free face wash. I also brush my lashes with a clean wand (like the ones found in mascara) at least 2-3 times (or more) a day. This will help tame any wonky lashes and keep the lashes clean from debris. Other than that, the daily maintenance is very minimal.
Do they feel weird or hurt?
This is the most asked question! With the lashes used at DekaLash, they are so lightweight, I rarely notice they are even there. Aside from the occasional poking of a misplaced or flipped lash, there is never any pain. And that is current simply with a quick brushing.
During the appointment, it may seem a little uncomfortable with the tape used to protect your bottom lashes from getting glued, however, there is never any pain. When opening my eyes for the first time after my full set application, I didn’t even notice anything was glued on my eyes.
Do you still wear mascara?
When I am reaching the point of needing a refill, I sometimes apply mascara to the tips of my lashes to add some volume that has decreased from the lifecycle of the lashes. However, I don’t need mascara until that point, as the extensions provide enough volume to make up for that. It is important to make sure you are NOT using waterproof mascara when you use, as the chemical of waterproof makeup products can deteriorate the glue, causing the extensions to fall.
What is the difference between Classic and Volume?
A Classic set includes only 1 extension per natural lash. The Volume lashes are light weight enough to add more than one to each natural lash. These are perfect for women who have sparse lashes or want a thick, very glam look.
While I cannot attest to the Volume lashes, I myself have a set of Classic Lashes with the D-curl, which gives me enough length and curl to notice I have extensions and enough volume without looking like a drag queen.
Are you pleased?
To stay I am happy with them is an understatement. What most people don’t mention is the CONFIDENCE lash extensions give you. Because I work from home, I often go a lot of days without any makeup on and a ball cap to cover my messy hair. But now with lash extensions, I don’t feel like a bum. They give me volume and length to bring out the feminine features of my face and make me feel pretty, even in my sweatpants. This is what I love most about getting lash extensions: that I don’t NEED to wear makeup all the time to feel decent. And because of the demands of my side-gig, I can hop on my instastories at any time with NO FILTER!
Selfie-Ready thanks to DekaLash!
A Few Tips:
Don’t get your lashes wet for 24 hours.
Don’t use saunas, steam rooms, or tanning beds for 48 hours.
Don’t use cleansers, makeup removers, or moisturizers that contain oils or solvents.
Don’t rub your eyes or pull on your lash extensions.
Don’t manually curl or perm your eyelash extensions.
I love my lashes and know you will too! If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to comment below, email me, or DM me on Instagram and I would be so happy to help!
*This is a sponsored post brought to you by DekaLash Louisville. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*
If you’ve been following along, you know I am obsessed with my spray tans. I get one once a week, and I always go to Sun Tan City. And in honor of FREE SPRAY TAN WEEK, I am sharing all my secrets for my pre-spray tan routine.
Shower
The first thing I do to prep for a spray tan is shower. You can shower hours before, or immediately prior. You just cannot shower or by near any water 4-6 hours after getting your spray tan. So, to prepare for this, I often shower right before I go. Because I usually tan at the last hours of the night, I am to get all freshened up, removing any natural oils my skin and hair product, allowing for a fresh canvas for the tan. This provides my tan a good 8+ hours of setting. The longer the wait to shower after, the better, so showering right beforehand is beneficial.
Exfoliate
One of the most important steps to my pre-spray tan routine is exfoliation. In order to make for an even tan, you have to remove all the dead skin (and prior spray tan if you tan often). It will make your skin smooth and prevent blotching and an uneven tan. I like to call this a “dirty” tan. Dirty is bad. Clean is good- so exfoliate!
I highly recommend using a sugar scrub with a loofa when you shower beforehand. I use the brand Tree Hut from Target (found HERE). They have many scents, my favorites being the Original Shea and Tropical Mango. It makes for a healthy scrub without damaging your skin, all while nourishing it at the same time with the shea.
Shaving
Because of my deep European roots, I have very dark hair. Therefore, I shave every single day. So, this extra step in the pre-spray tan routine is not inconvenient for me. Nevertheless, I highly recommend shaving beforehand. This provides for a smooth surface for the tan to adhere to, and will also add an additional sense of exfoliation to your skin as well. I use Suave Coconut conditioner as my shaving cream. As weird as it seems, it works much better than foamy shaving cream, leaving my skin smooth and nourished, plus the bottle goes a longer way with a much cheaper price.
Lotion
Because of my eczema, I have very dry skin, and therefore, apply lotion to my entire body after every shower. However, the only exclusion to is right before a spray tan. In order to prevent any barrier to your skin, you cannot apply any lotion prior to spray tanning. This provides for a clean surface for the tan to adhere without any interference. However, I do recommend moisturizing after your tan (after your first post-tan shower). This will help the skin from drying, which can cause the spray tan to flake. Lotion will help lengthen the spray tan and keep your skin healthy.
Primer
There is an exception to the lotion rule: and that is priming lotion. Sun Tan City offers several options to pre-spray tan primer to help prepare your skin for the spray. They assist with lengthening the life of your tan, keeping your skin nourished and healthy. My favorite: the Designer Skin CC Sunless Primer. It helps with eleminating the odor that often comes with a spray tan, intensifies the bronzing elements of the spray tan (and UV bronzers if you double dip), and tightens skin for longer-lasting tans. You can purchase at your local Sun Tan City (found HERE).
Barrier Cream
Another exception to the lotion rule is barrier cream. At each Sun Tan City, you have access to complementary barrier cream in each spray tan room. The name says it all- it provides a barrier when applied to any part of your body that you do not want the spray tan to adhere to. I apply this to my hand, nails, bottom of feet, and sometimes ankles, elbows, and knees. Essentially, any place of your body that acts as an extreme magnet for the tan and that you want to PREVENT from tanning.
So head over to your local Sun Tan City to take part in FREE SPRAY TAN WEEK (Monday, Sept. 24th through Sunday, Sept. 30th). Get a FREE spray tan in any of the spray tan booths, get weekend pricing for add-ons (double pass of legs, hydration), join any spray tan membership for free (no one-time membership fee), and so much more! See further details of this amazing promotion HERE.
Happy tanning!!
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*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Sun Tan City. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*
The North is a direction. The South is a lifestyle
As a young girl born and raised in Kentucky, I was taught the ways of the South. My mama didn’t raise no fool- and because of that, I have instilled in me a way of life fueled by sweet tea, biscuits, and bourbon. 😉
When Swanky Shoppe reached out to me to build a collaborating relationship, I knew it was a definite yes! Not only it this local store ran by two fabulous women with go-getter attitudes, which I can totally relate! Plus, their brand encompasses the style of a true southern woman- with ruffles & pearls galour, sweet home decor, smockings for the kiddos, dapper garb for the gents, and so much more.
And one of my favorite brands they carry is Draper James. It is so exciting to have access to this well-known brand in my small hometown. Reese Witherspoon knew what she was doing when she started this name, and I’m obsessed her versatility in style. Along with her fabulous clothing brand, Reese curated a fabulous book, Whiskey in a Teacup, detailing all things southern- between recipes, parties, style, and stories seeping with tradition.
And in honor of her new release, I am sharing my own version of this Southern bible with 10 things I have learned from being raised in the South, all while rocking a Draper James outfit, courtesy of Swanky Shoppe!
1. Hospitality
Between whiskey, wine, and line dancing, us Southerners know how to party! And growing up, I witnessed my mother host all sorts of events, always carrying them out with such ease. She consistently welcomed in our guests with a sense of hospitality, and I always strived to do the same. The way to any Southerner’s heart is through food, and whipping up the best meal always makes for a great event. And when you add festive drinks, decor, and of course A THEME, then you have yourself a PARTAYYY.
2. I don’t have an accent, y’all do
There is one thing EVERY southern girl has, and it is a southern drawl (and a strand of pearls, but I will save that for #3). Y’all, bless your heart, as all get out, over yonder: just to name a few souther-isms. But there is something so endearing about the voice of a southern gal. The accent is full of love, comfort, and a sense of “home”.
3. When in Doubt, Overdress
You know when you’re going to an event, and your girlfriends always ask, “what are you planning on wearing?” Because no one wants to seem to out of place! But my advise is always this: when in doubt, always overdress. Because it is better to be overdressed than under! Something a southern girl always takes pride in is her fashion sense. We love to get dolled up, with extravagant accessories, overdone hairdos, and make-up galore. Oh, and pearls go with anything- faux, real, whatever floats your boat.
4. Monogram Everything
During adolescence, when a girl has a major crush on the cute boy in class, she usually daydreams of being a wife. She will scribble her name on her paper, and add his last name to the end of hers. But us southern girls take it one step further. We draw out what our monogram would be, because if it doesn’t look right, that is a definite deal-breaker! If it isn’t breathing, we monogram it. Our bags, pillows, robes, sweaters, just about anything you can imagine, And thanks to Swanky Shoppe, I can get all my monogram needs personalized on just about anything! Follow their website HERE to check out their large selection on monogramable goodies.
5. Mind Your Manners
What is great about the South is the friendliness you encounter by just about everyone. We great each other with a smile and always say “yes, sir” or “yes ma’am”. Our parents taught us to always behave, especially in public, or else we would get a whoopin’ when we got home. We write thank you notes every chance we get, because that’s proper, y’all. We aren’t just a buncha hillbillies- we know etiquette just as much as Queen E herself.
6. The bigger the hair, the closer to Jesus
I grew up watching my mom wear velcro rollers each and every day. It gave her the extra volume she needed and curl she didn’t naturally have. Accompanied with an excess amount of hairspray, this southern girl knows how to tease her way to heaven! Not only is our hair big, but so is our hearts for Jesus. We may drink a little, but we sure do love our Lord! As a southern girl raised Christian, I walk by faith. Without my God, I am nothing, and I think the Lord each and every day for his mercy and grace.
7. Mama Knows Best
Speaking of Mama, every southern house is ran by a strong, southern women. She shows love through home-cooked meals, knows when to fight back and when to show compassion. She is well put together, and never sleeps. Everyone minds her and always hugs her goodbye. This woman goes by Mama. While I may be Daddy’s girl, I always looked to my mom for guidance, especially when it came to learning how to be a lady. She knew how to cook, how to throw a dinner party, and always dressed with great style. A lot of who I am now I attribute to my momma.
8. It’s A Family Tradition
Every family has their own traditions. And they usually arise around the holidays. As a typical southern gal, Christmas decor goes up on November 1st! I am obsessed with this winter holiday and love to go all out! Here in the south, we love to be “extra” with our Christmas traditions. Christmas is the best time of year. And with that come lot of traditions. Each and every family has their own way of doing things, which makes us all positively unique. I love hearing all the different traditions for all different families, as it gives me new ideas for which to add to our family.
9. Raised on Sweet Tea and Mint Juleps
One of my favorite memories growing up is spending summer days at my grandma’s house, playing outside and swimming in their pool. And a big glass of iced sweet tea always accompanied these hot days. My grandmother makes the BEST sweet tea: strong, sweet, and southern (just how I like my men 😉 ). No one can surpass my grandmothers recipe, and I look forward to having a glass every time I go and visit.
Are you really southern if you don’t put 2 lbs of sugar in your tea?! And are you really from Kentucky if you don’t like Mint Juleps? This Southern gal isn’t just raised on sweet tea, but also on mint juleps. Being in the heart of Bourbon Country, this Kentucky Kocktail is a classic, and especially enjoyed during the 2nd-best holiday of the year: the Kentucky Derby. Inspired by a combination of these 2 southern specialties, below is my recipe for a twisted tea you will love all year long!
Ingredients
2cupswater
1cupsugar
5to 6 mint leaves
2family-sized tea bags (I use Luzianne)
3cupswater
3/4to 1 cup bourbon (optional)
crushed ice
lemon slices
mint sprigs
Instructions
Bring 2 cups water, sugar, and mint leaves to a boil in a medium saucepan, stirring to dissolve sugar.
Remove from heat and add tea bags. Steep for about 5 minutes.
Remove tea bags and add 3 cups cold water.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Add your finest Kentucky bourbon to tea mixture (if desired).
Fill glass with crushed ice. Pour tea on top and garnish with lemon and mint leaves.
Enjoy with friends, family, & your neighbors down the road.
10. Whiskey In a Teacup
And finally, being a southern women isn’t just about being raised in the south. It is about fighting for what you believe in. While we agree with chivalry, we thrive off independence, because Mama didn’t raise no fool. Being a southern woman means being strong-willed, not backing down, and making your voice heard. We may be delicately put together on the outside, but on the inside, we can kick your a** like whiskey does!
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You can shop this look by visiting the Swanky Shoppe in Elizabethtwon, KY or by placing a phone order by calling 270-307-6367. And while you’re at it, visit their Instagram HERE and give them a follow.
*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Swanky Shoppe in Elizabethtown, KY. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*
My second favorite place to be (right behind being at home with my family & friends) is the fabulous city of Nashville. I go there often for work, but just as much for play too! Every time we visit, I always try to find new places to go, restaurants to try, and places to shop. However, I do have my usual stops that I MUST visit. And one of these stops is Coffee and Coconuts in Franklin, TN- right outside of Nashville. This is hands down my most FAVORITE coffee shop. Not only does it make me feel like I’m about to walk onto the beach, but they have a vast menu with fabulous latte flavors. My favorite: the Banana Mocha Latte- with coconut milk, of course. Seriously, it tastes EXACTLY like a chocolate covered banana. Something about banana-flavored coffee that gets me every time.
Aside from the fabulous coffee selections, the aesthetic is what I am really obsessed with! They did such a great job at creating a beach-environment without being cheesy. The decor is sleek and simply, with a tropical and MODERN flare- styled with hanging hammock-style chairs, bright teal floors, and white shiplap. And the bathrooms are a MUST SEE: the women’s is covered from floor to ceiling in flamingo wallpaper. Totally Instagram-worthy!
I can’t think of a better way to send-off the summer than with a feature of this costal cafe. But don’t let the seasons top you- they are open all year long! So the next time you’re in the Nashville-area, make sure you hit up Coffee and Coconuts. And tell them Type A Style sent you. 😉
Welcome to Type A Style! I’m Amanda, a fashion guru and self-taught designer living in Kentucky. I approach fashion & interior design with a frugal eye, and I love sharing my awesome finds! I’m a proud wife of a sexy police officer and mommy to the cutest Labrador. Jesus is my ROCK & that’s how I ROLL.
