#ThrowbackThursday: College Round

I'm officially back home in Chicago today, which means winter break is in full swing! This also means that I am halfway through senior year. Crazy how time flies!

I've been especially nostalgic lately, thinking about all I've accomplished and how much I've changed over the past three and half years at IU. When I was in high school, I never thought I would end up here. IU wasn't even on my radar until the summer before my senior year of high school. I went on a campus tour begrudgingly and ended up falling in LOVE!

I could never have imagined the amazing friendships I've made here. Not just surface-level friendships, but lifelong, future bridesmaid friends. I've learned so much - about public relations, about life and about myself. I've grown as a professional and feel confident that I will be pursuing a career I love after graduation. There have been ups and there have been downs but I've grown stronger with each and every experience.

I thought I would share some pictures from the last three and half years to take you along the journey with me. Hope you enjoy this as much as I did putting it together!

Freshman year // One of my closest friends, Linden. We met freshman year and have been inseparable since. Between you and me, it was pretty tricky to find a good picture from freshman year. For some reason, awful selfies were a pretty common thing that year.

Freshman year // This was New Year's Eve with my best friends from high school. From left, Arianna, me, Kristin and Katie. So thankful that we all are still such good friends now!

Freshman year // First Little 500 experience! Clockwise from left: my friend Claire, me, Linden, and Kelly. This picture still makes me laugh - although I'm not sure why we were doing this!

Sophomore year // Love when my parents got to visit for Parent's Weekend. Here we are in Brown County.

Sophomore year // This lovely picture (hint: we are at the Supreme Court in D.C.) marks the start of my friendship with my current roommate, Carmen. So presh!

Summer after sophomore year // Love, love, love my summer in London crew. Here's the group in Stonehenge. Can we all go back?! Like, now!

Summer after sophomore year // This picture basically summarizes a typical night in London. Laughing over Pimms with two amazing friends, Kourtney and Haley.

Junior year // Love my PRSSA girls (Kate, Carly, me and Kaleigh) at National Conference in San Francisco. A truly amazing trip!

Junior year // A great day in the city with these wonderful IU friends. From left: Matt, Kourtney, Mike Mack and me.

Junior year // Carmen and me in Atlanta for our second Media LLC trip together.

Summer after junior year // So lucky to become FHriends with this girl. Glad we can keep the fun going at IU, Jessica!

Summer after junior year // Loved all my Contiki friends but especially these ladies: Haylee, Katie and Anna! Glad I could experience the west coast with you all.

Senior year // Seriously adore "the company" - Nick, Carmen and Anu. I'm going to miss you crazy kids!

Senior year // I don't know what I would be without my PRSSA family. So thankful for all of these ladies. Loved taking on National Conference and Philly with you!

Senior year // Seriously grateful to have a friend like you, Carms!

What are some of your favorite moments from college?

Holiday Party Dresses

Most of the holiday parties in college involve scouring through Goodwill to find an oversized ugly Christmas sweater. Don't get me wrong, this tradition is super fun and not to mention, comfy! But it also doesn't give a girl the opportunity to get all dolled up. I love that special occasion that allows me to throw on a fancy dress and rock a smokey eye. In case you are lucky enough to score an invite to one of these occasions this holiday season, I rounded up a few fun cocktail dresses. Whether you are a classy girl or a party girl (or a little bit of both), you are sure to love some of the options below.

One // I love, love, LOVE this dress. This is a very 60's look that would look fab with a voluminous blow-out. The dress is conservative enough (read: long enough) to wear to a work holiday party yet still fun enough to show your unique personality. // Dot Mesh Bodice Dress: Eliza J via Nordstrom

Two // Every girl needs a red dress to make her feel like she can tackle anything. This one-shouldered number is a fun twist on the classic. Plus the beading detail on the side is thinning as well as festive. // Beaded One Shoulder Satin Dress: Eliza J via Nordstrom

Three // This silk chiffon number comes in a wide range of colors, but I'm really loving it in "rich peacock." I could see this emerald gown sticking around in your closet for years because of its universal shape. Perfect for any occasion! // Nadia Dress: J.Crew

Four // Normally I stray away from velvet, probably because it reminds me of dresses from my childhood, but there's something about this navy look that just makes me happy. The conservative shape will keep you warm but is also fun enough for the holidays. It would be great for church on Christmas Eve. Grandma would definitely approve...in the best possible way! // Velvet Blouson Dress: J.Crew

Five // Every party girl needs a pop-of-color dress to steal the show. This classic bubble-gum pink shade will make you stand out in a sea of LBDs. Plus, the drape front and exposed zipper in the back keep the look modern. // Drape Front Sleeveless Dress: L'Agence

Six // Chevron is everywhere now. Add sequins to the equation and I'm totally in. Plus, the sleek shape slims over your curves, creating a defined waist that is super flattering. // Chevron Sequin Dress: Dress the Population via Nordstrom

Seven // As you probably have realized by now, I adore a good fit and flare dress. This golden sequin number would be perfect for New Year's without being too flashy. Throw on a pair of black tights underneath along with black pumps and you are ready to hit the town. // Strapless Sequin Dress: Jill Stuart via Nordstrom

Eight // We all need a go-to black dress in our wardrobe. This dress fits the bill but with a twist. You have to check out the mesh paneled back that gives the figure-hugging number a futuristic look. This isn't your mom's LBD. // Levinson Dress: Elizabeth and James

What will you be wearing to the holiday party this year?

P.S. In case you need a boost to your holiday spirit, check out this video of a magical Christmas piano in Chicago's Union Station. The crowd's reaction is priceless!

Gift Guide for Dad

I was talking to my roommate the other day and we both agreed that the hardest person to shop for is our dads. Most of the time, the default present for my dad is clothing. While functional, clothes aren't always the most exciting gift to unwrap on Christmas morning. One of my favorite Christmas presents that I got my dad was a pillow that said, "Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad." While the sentiment is cheesy, there's a lot of truth to it. Plus, I was 10 and bought it with my own money. For the other Daddy's girls who might be struggling to find the perfect present, I gathered some options that are sure to put a smile on Dad's face.

One // Dad likes to be cozy too (I know mine does!). This robe will be sure to keep him warm on those chilly winter mornings. // Flannel Robe: $85 (plus 30% off!)

Two // If your dad plays the guitar like mine, this is the cutest gift. You can personalize your own message to be engraved on the pick, but I love the cheeky message shown above, "Couldn't pick a better dad." So sweet! // Personalized Brass Guitar Pick: $20

Three // What Dad doesn't have their favorite sports team? If you're in college, this is a perfect time to get your dad suited up in your school's gear. My dad went to the University of Michigan and is a die-hard Wolverine so it always melts my heart when I see him in IU apparel. That's true love! // Indiana Basketball Hat: $17.99

Four // Ever since my dad got a touch screen phone, he's been glued to that thing non-stop. As a result, he's been exploring social media more but I'll spare you the details of the tutorials I've been giving him - he still doesn't really understand Twitter. Now Dad can update his status and keep his fingers warm in these gloves with an electronic tip in the thumbs and forefinger. // North Face eTip Gloves: $45

Five // Make Dad shine at his work golf outing with these golf balls that reduce slices and hooks (which I think is a good thing) to improve his game. No one will know his little secret! Plus, they are banned by the United States Golf Association which means they are pretty BA in my book. // Hook and Slice Reducing Golf Balls: $34.95

Six // Dad will never misplace his keys again when he uses these Bluetooth tracker stickers that allow him to track lost items with the accompanying iPhone app. He can track up to 20 items at once within a 100-foot range. Technology at its finest!  // Bluetooth Location Finder: $49.99

Seven // If Dad follows the Humans of New York blog, he will love this book that is perfect for an office or coffee table! The book captures real New Yorkers and their stories to feature the true spirit of the city. // Humans of New York Book: $18.35

Eight // For the Dad that loves TV, this device brings online entertainment like Netflix, Hulu Plus, YouTube, HBO and more, onto his HDTV. Now the whole family can enjoy the new season of House of Cards in February. // Chromecast: $35

Nine // I have yet to find a Dad (or anyone) who doesn't find Seinfeld HILARIOUS. Help him relive his favorite episodes with this boxed set of the entire series. He will love you forever. // Seinfeld The Complete Series: $84.94

Ten // My dad is master of the grill in our house. And every guru needs his proper set of tools. This is a gift the whole family will benefit from this summer. I can just smell the burgers now! // Stainless Steel Master BBQ Tool Set: $82.39

Eleven // Treat your dad to a gift card from his favorite restaurant. Bonus points if you go to dinner with him. Not only will you get a free meal, but some of my favorite conversations with my dad happened over a meal. For my dad, I'd get a gift card to Wildfire. Yum! // Lettuce Entertain You Gift Card: $75

Twelve // Help wake Dad up with an adorable silhouette mug for his morning cup of joe. You can submit your own picture of you as a kid to make it truly special. // Personalized Silhouette Mug: $40

P.S. Check out my other gift guide for your girl friends. Plus, everything is $35 and under!

What will you be getting Dad for the holidays?

PR Prep: Winter Break To-Do List

It's finals week for me which means I'm counting down the days until I will be home for the holidays! I'm so excited to catch up on TV (per my friend's suggestion, The Good Wife is on my list!), do some reading for fun and reunite with friends - including my Contiki roommate, Hayley who is stopping by Chicago on her way home to Australia. But don't let these three weeks of freedom slip away without being (slightly) productive. It can be tempting to push aside the job/internship hunt while you are on vacation-mode, but this is the perfect time to get down to business! Here are some tips for getting your professional self into gear over winter break.

One // I second all of the ideas in this PRSSA Progressions post from 2011. For tips on how to create your own business cards, check out how I made mine in October.

Two // Winter break is the perfect time to schedule informational interviews. Last year, I knew I wanted to intern in Chicago and was lucky enough to live near the city to do informational interviews over the break. Identify some agencies or companies you would like to learn more about. Once you have this list, try to find a way to meet someone from these companies. Reach out to family or friends or check out your school's alumni directory to find connections. Ask your contact if they are able to meet for about 20 minutes to grab a cup of coffee and chat. Informational interviews are great opportunities to learn if an agency is a good fit and hear about the work they do. Plus, when it comes to hiring, having a connection always helps you stand out from the pack!

Three // Just like your family sends out Christmas cards each year, the holidays are a perfect time to follow up with professionals. Drop your past intern supervisor a short note about what you've been up to and wish her a happy holidays. Sending a hand-written note will show that you care and this is also a perfect opportunity to remind her that you are looking for a job in May. This ensures you are still on her radar but in a subtle, just-thinking-of-you way. For the perfect cards, check out my post on professional stationery options.

Four // I'm a super-nerd and over Thanksgiving I created an Excel spreadsheet of all of the agencies I want to apply along with their application deadlines and the materials I have to submit. This helps keep me organized when it comes time to actually apply in January and February. Making an application checklist now will help you stay focused on what you need to accomplish while keeping you mindful of due-dates! I also included a column for contacts at the agency that I might want to alert when my application is submitted. That way your connection knows to look for your name in the stack of hundreds of applicants.

Five // It seems that all I've been doing lately is updating my resume. Winter break is the perfect time to put the finishing touches on your resume so that it is ready to be sent out at the drop of a hat. If you already have some agencies in mind, you might want to tailor each resume for that particular agency. For instance, some agencies run their resumes through a machine that searches for specific keywords. To ensure your resume gets to the next level, use the same words from the job listing in your resume to show that you have the necessary skills to succeed at their company. If you have time, start tackling the ever-dreaded cover letters as well.

Six // Winter break can also be a good time to clean up your online presence. Create an online portfolio with relevant work samples and information about your professional experiences. Check out mine here! Start a blog about something you are passionate about to showcase your writing skills. Update your Linkedin profile with relevant experience. Google your name to make sure that only the good things come up. Clean up your Twitter account, or create a whole new account for professional purposes. These are all things employers check out during the hiring process so you want to make sure that you are putting your best foot forward before you even come in for an interview.

Seven // Make sure to save some time to have fun as well! Enjoy time with family and friends, eat lots of food and snuggle up on the couch. Rejuvenate now so that you can tackle spring semester and the ensuing job search with ease!

What will you be doing over winter break?

$35 and Under Gift Guide: Gal Pal Edition

I've got to admit, the holidays are one of my favorite times of the year. While the weather has been anything but desirable, it has been so much fun lately to come home and snuggle up under a nice warm blanket with some hot chocolate. The holidays also mean: GIFTS! Which can be both stressful and fun to find. I rounded up a few options for your girlfriends this holiday season. I can imagine gifting basically every single item on this list to one of my friends (and potentially keeping a few for myself!). Plus, they are all $35 and under, so you won't be caught on the naughty list for over-spending this December.

One // What girl does not love lounging in a comfy pair of fleece pajama pants? This fun red polka dot pair is perfect for the holidays. // Fleece PJ Pants: $7 (on super sale!)

Two // I know a lot of preppy friends that would "love" this twist on the classic pearl earrings. Get it? // Love Studs: $22

Three // Do you have that friend who's always in need of a hair tie or stain remover? I know I do! This sleek pouch has 21 beauty necessities for when she's in a pinch. // Skinny Minimergency Kit: $24

Four // Your friend will never misplace her keys again when they are on this cute calf hair key fob. Bonus points for being easy to find in her purse! // Key Fob: $22.50

Five // For the wine connoisseur in your friend group. It's like a sippy cup for adults! // Vino 2 Go Cup: $16

Six // Not only is this journal a super vibrant color, it also has advice every girl can live by. Life's short, anyways! // Eat Cake For Breakfast Journal: $24

Seven // Help your over-stressed friend unwind with this decadent assortment of body washes (like frosted lemon cake) that are almost good enough to eat. Even better? The calories don't count! // Baked with Love Philosophy Body Wash Set: $24

Eight // For your eco-friendly gal pal, these candles contain no additives or chemicals yet smell (and look) just as good as any alternative. // Joya Candle: $25

Nine // Don't let your friend be seen at the holiday party without festive nails. These four shades are sure to dazzle. // Essie Winter 2013 Nail Polish Collection Cube: $17

Ten // A must-have for the hostess with the mostest. Help her home shine with these adorable multi-colored glitter coasters. // Glitter Coasters: $35

Eleven // Every gal needs a cute, teeny pouch to throw in her purse. Whether it holds lip gloss, loose change or tampons (am I right?!), no one will know. // Monogram Pouch: $24

Twelve // For those times when she just wants to say "ciao," this adorable stationery set is perfect for the sophisticated lady. // Hello Darling Stationery: $19.95

Thirteen // The cool tones in this scarf will go with everything in your friend's closet. With a bunch of different colors available online, try to find one that matches her favorite coat. // Infinity Scarf: $20

Fourteen // This cute watch will help your globe-trotting friend relive her travels (and think of you) whenever she checks the time. An excellent idea for the girl you studied abroad with. // Around the World Watch: $34

Fifteen // You must get this adorable iPhone case right meow for your feline-loving friends. It is just purrr-fect. // Cat Face iPhone Case: $14

Sixteen // Isn't every great friendship "a beautiful mess?" Well, maybe those are just my friends...and of course I say that with love! // A Beautiful Mess Dishtowel: $14.95

What are you giving your best girlfriends this year?

November Favorites

Lately, I've fallen into the time-suck known as YouTube vloggers (aka video bloggers). I'd never really followed vloggers before, aside from the occasional Jenna Marbles video. Now I find myself wasting hours watching haul videos or make-up tutorials. It's probably not a good idea I discovered this so late in the semester. 

Hands down, my favorite videos are the monthly favorites. I enjoy trying new things, so it's fun to see what my trusted vloggers are loving that month. Because I'm not as good on camera as I am in words, I thought I would just post my own November Favorites here. I hope to do this series every month, using the seven categories below to show you what I am obsessed with this month. Let me know what you think!

Casual // I scored this sweater for 40-percent off on Black Friday and have worn it so much since then. Last week I wore it twice alone and begged my roommate not to judge me for it (she didn't!). I love the funnel-neck and the neutral shade reminds me of something Olivia Pope would wear. It's a tad on the itchy side, but its loose shape easily makes up for it. No fabric touching my body equals a happy Christine. // Enchanting Sweater: Eddie Bauer

Fun // I've got to admit, I stole these socks from my mom. When she first showed me the pair, I made fun of them but I was in heaven after slipping them on my feet. I have abnormally large feet and these socks come in large and x-large sizes so they are super roomy and perfect for keeping my tootsies warm under boots in the winter. And the fact that they are mismatched gives them some character, don't you think? // Comfy Socks: Soulmate Socks

Beauty // I am not a fan of liquid eyeliner, yet I adore the winged-out look I see everyone pull off. I've been using Urban Decay pencil eyeliner for years, but I decided to give liquid another shot. After researching drugstore varieties online, I stumbled upon this option. It's super easy to apply (even for those that lack a steady hand) and stays on all day, yet is still easy to remove at night. // Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner: L'oreal

Professional // Also while Black Friday shopping, I discovered this sweater from J.Crew. If you've been in the store (or shopped online) lately, you know that J.Crew is all about embellished sweaters this season. And I am more than okay with that! Layered over a button-down, this slightly boxy sweater is instantly chic. // Jeweled Sweater: J.Crew

Wildcard // I love nail polish, especially during the winter when I can indulge in dark colors without appearing goth. What drew me to this shade is that it is definitely something I'd never seen before. It is purpley-gray but when the light hits it, it's slightly iridescent green. In the best possible way, of course. // Essie Nail Polish in Sable Collar

PR Advice // This article came into my inbox a few weeks ago and when I saw the words "office snacking" in the subject line, knew I had to open it. While this topic may sound silly, I was always faced with the tempting box of donuts sitting in the kitchen or Fleishman's infamous Thursday treat cart. As a girl who finds it hard to resist a chocolate-chip cookie staring me in the face, I found these tips really helpful. Major take-away: don't always take, take, take when it comes to snacking. Return the favor by providing treats the next time. // Proper Office Snacking Etiquette

Book // I rarely get time to read during school, but I had to make an exception for this book. Emily of Cupcakes and Cashmere recommended this mystery novel and I seriously couldn't put it down. While the point of view takes a while to adjust to at first, this book kept me turning the pages. And the ending? Didn't see it coming! // Afterwards by Rosamund Lupton

What are some of your favorites right now?

Scandal!

To say I am obsessed with this (new to me) show would be putting it lightly. My friend, Jessica, recommended I watch it earlier in the semester but I never had the time to fully commit to it. I knew Thanksgiving would be the perfect time to binge-watch the show. And I was right! There are so many reasons why Scandal is fabulous, but I will break it down into four main reasons:

1. It's about PR (kind of) // Olivia Pope is D.C.'s "fixer," the woman you go to if you committed a crime and want to get out of it or want to get elected president. She is a media relations queen who focuses on listening to her gut. Olivia always asks her clients, "What do you want?" This question is equally important for anyone in public relations to ask of a client before working on a campaign. You must establish goals beforehand so that you know what you are working towards. We should all strive to be gladiators in suits!

2. The fashion! // Not only is Olivia incredibly smart, she also is an amazing dresser! Her style is classic in modern shapes and neutral tones. While I love adding a pop of color to most of my outfits, there is something so simply elegant about sticking to the basics. And just to show you what I mean...

You can't go wrong with a sleek grey suit. // This beige jacket is to-die with Olivia's chic long gloves.

Love this white Burberry coat and Prada handbag. Something tells me Olivia must have super powers to prevent spilling on herself.

Simply stunning in this champagne floor-length number.

3. I love presidents // I have a strange obsession with all things presidential. So much so that I shamefully admit that I would love to be First Lady one day. Although after watching this show I'm not sure I want all that responsibility, especially with a cheating husband. The plot twists are endless in this show, which always keeps you wanting more! It's so much fun to see the inside world of our government. Hopefully in real life it's a little less (I couldn't resist!) scandalous.

4. Olivia Pope loves wine // How she manages to consume copious amounts of red wine and still keep her figure, I have no clue. But her vino addiction is fueling my love for the Crate & Barrel wine glasses she uses in the show. I'm not a fan of red wine, but these adorable, tall goblet glasses sure make me want to give it another shot.

What shows are you loving right now?

Well, Hello Again!

Sorry I have been on a brief (ahem, a little over a month) hiatus on the blog-front. Life has been crazy lately. Blogging has been on my to-do list for weeks, but somehow it always got pushed aside. Now that it's dead week, I miraculously have extra time so here I am again! I thought I would give you a short recap of what I've been up to since you last heard from me. So here we go...

1. In October, I traveled to Philadelphia with 12 (whoa!) other IU PRSSA members for PRSSA National Conference. Talk about an amazingly energizing weekend! I always feel so refreshed after a PRSSA National event. I love connecting with members and hearing that they face the same problems that we do at IU is incredibly reassuring. It was fun to reconnect with old (and new!) friends as well as grow stronger as a Chapter. I can definitely tell you executive board meetings are so much more fun now that we all feel a little bit more (and sometimes almost too) comfortable with each other. Plus, it's fun having nicknames for each other now. Hello, Magsteph and Elijah! Here's a few take-aways from the weekend, plus details about the awards we won!

Part of the group after the Living Legends of PR keynote on Sunday.

We managed to sneak in some fun in Love Park on our last day.

We are PR!

2. In November, I participated in Hoosier PRSA's Half Day with a Pro event. I was placed at Borshoff in Indianapolis and had a blast hearing about everything they do at this PR and advertising agency. I also enjoyed meeting other PRSSA members from all over Indiana, which is always a fun result of these events.

3. I'm on the PRSSA Bateman Case Study Competition team this year and in November, we started our campaign. I love, love, love our team this year. While the work hasn't gotten too crazy yet, I know that we will accomplish great things because we all know how to work hard but also have fun while doing it. The best of both worlds!

4. On a fun (non-PRSSA) related note, I had an awesome time at a pre-Thanksgiving potluck with friends a few weeks ago. Every year, we get together and everyone brings a different Thanksgiving dish. And my favorite part, we all dress up. I wanted to show pictures of the dress I wore that I got at the beginning of the year, but didn't get a chance to wear until now. It's from the Prabal Gurung line for Target, so I don't think it's available anymore but it's perfect for the holidays. The dress is a little too short without tights, but very festive in red. Not to mention, super slimming with the black paneling on the side.

From left: my roommate, Carmen and friend, Mike Mack. Love these people!

5. I had the whole week off of school for Thanksgiving and I had THE BEST time lumping (read: relaxing) and eating the whole time. On top of this, I got hooked on a new show, but I'm saving this news for a whole different post because it's that good! Also, I shopped my butt off on Black Friday...and Thanksgiving (guilty!). My mom and I shopped from 9:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving to about 3 a.m. Then slept and were back at the mall by 10 a.m. and finally got home around 4:30 p.m. Let's just say we literally shopped 'til we dropped. But we scored some amazing deals on Christmas presents for family...and a few for us too!

What have you been up to lately? 

Finished!

I am happy to announce that I officially finished my #30DaysofJewels challenge! I know in my previous recap post  I talked about how much I enjoyed this challenge. And I did. But the second half was much harder than the first. I struggled to find new ways to wear old pieces and it was a hassle to plan my outfits around my jewelry options (this was especially true when packing for PRSSA National Conference - more on that in another post!).

I'm still glad I pushed myself to finish the challenge and I would highly recommend it to anyone who's looking to mix it up a bit with their wardrobe. While I didn't repeat any pieces, feel free to re-wear your jewels in different ways to create a new look! I would love to see what you come up with using the hashtag #30DaysofJewels!

For now, here's a run-through of the second half of the challenge and where you can find my looks. P.S. I wear my chambray top a few too many times - 6 times in the last 30 days!

Day 16 // Cheetah Ring: Camden Market (Similar)

Day 17 // Ribbon Gold Necklace:  Old Forever 21 (Similar-ish)

Day 18 // Wrap Watch: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 19 // Tortoise Necklace: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 20 // Gold Ring: Camden Market (Similar)

Day 21 // Pave Bow Belt: Old J.Crew (Similar)

Day 22 // Pave Link Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar) // Link Watch: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 23 // Floral Watch: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 24 // Rose Studs: Forever 21

Day 25 // Black Wrap Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 26 // Faux-Diamond Drop Earrings: Old Nadri (Similar)

Day 27 // Buckle Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 28 // Bubble Necklace: Charming Charlie

Day 29 // Turquoise Necklace: Charlotte Russe (Similar)

Day 30 // Dangle Earrings: Old J.C.Penney (Similar)

What's your favorite look from all of #30DaysofJewels?

Hold 'Em

I've already stressed the importance of investing in your own set of business cards. But you also need something to carry these business cards in. A "purse" of sorts for your cards. Need I say more?

Imagine you just met an incredibly awesome connection at a networking event. You two are really hitting it off and are ready to exchange business cards. Nothing is more embarrassing than having to pull out a plastic Ziploc baggie from your purse to retrieve your card. Well, maybe it would be equally embarrassing if you didn't have business cards in the first place!

Either way, business card holders are a must for transporting your cards in style. They show you are professional and prepared, two very important qualities in the job hunt! I have to admit I need to invest in a fashionable business card holder, so I rounded up some of my favorites. Christmas present, anyone?

1. Gold Envelope // I am a huge fan of gold and this sleek envelope would be perfect for stashing discretely in your purse. // See Jane Work

2. Let's Do Lunch // I love the minimalist design, and the cheeky "let's do lunch" engravement on the front is adorable. This holder shows your personality while not hitting you over the head. // kate spade new york

3. Tiffany's Blue // Nothing is more chic or timeless than Tiffany's. While this business card holder is definitely a splurge, it could be a good reward post-graduation. // Tiffany & Co

4. Patterned Envelope // The bright colors and fun pattern on this business card holder will stand out - in the right way! Added bonus - you will always be able to find it in your purse! // Etsy

5. Tory Burch // Another splurge, but the simple, classic design will be sure to last you for years! The cognac-colored leather is to die and would be the perfect complement to a Tory Burch wallet. // Tory Burch 

What kind of business card holder do you have?

Half Way There

You remember when I started doing the #30DaysofJewels challenge, right? If not, here's a refresher. Now that it's officially Day 15 (where did the month go?!) I thought I would do a recap of what I've worn for the past 15 days.

I knew I had a lot of jewelry, I just didn't know how much until I forced myself to mix it up a little bit. I'm having a blast rediscovering old pieces that I hadn't worn in years and also challenging myself to wear my favorites in different ways.

It hasn't really been a struggle to take pictures of my jewelry every day. In fact, it's been pretty fun! Although I will admit it is tricky on Sunday when all I want to wear is a sweatshirt and leggings. Besides that, I'm really glad I pushed myself to actually do this challenge.

However, it's lonely out there all alone in Instagram world. I want to see how you wear your jewelry! I love getting inspiration from others and stealing ideas from you! Use #30DaysofJewels to document your favorite statement necklace or fun arm party of bangles. Can't wait to see what you come up with!

Day 1 // Flower Necklace: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 2 // Bow Earrings: Forever 21 (Similar)

Day 3 // Cuff: Wholesale (Similar...kind of)

Day 4 // Stone Necklace: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 5 // Christine Necklace: Sarah Chloe

Day 6 // Leopard Ring: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 7 // Drop Necklace: Target (Similar)

Day 8 // Link Watch: Wholesale (Similar) // Bow Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 9 // Faux-Diamond Collar: Forever 21 (Similar)

Day 10 // Rose Gold Watch: Wholesale (Similar) // Rose Gold Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar) // Pink Chain Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 11 // Grey Link Necklace: Wholesale (Similar-ish...but still super cute)

Day 12 // JB5K Color Run - I was covered in jewel tones!

Day 13 // Delicate Stone Necklace: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 14 // Drop Earrings: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 15 //  Wrap Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar-ish) // Chocolate Gold Watch: Wholesale (Similar) // Stretch Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar but with spikes!)

Which day of the #30DaysofJewels was your favorite? Don't forget to Instagram your best jewels this month using #30DaysofJewels!