As you’ve probably noticed, my instagram and blog have taken a turn into the fashion world the past few months. Did I plan this all along? Frankly, no I didn’t. I did want to include fashion in my blog from the beginning, but I didn’t really know what I was doing. My first “real fashion” shoot for the Nordstrom sale that I did with my friend Ashley, confirmed that I did indeed have a knack for fashion and my insta-family loved it too. And I also gained some confidence. So when I learned, about a whole day photoshoot…I decided to take a risk and sign-up or it. . . and I’m so glad I did!

Photo: Jaqueline Barkley Outfit Earrings: Hide & Heart Co

Inspire Society Tribe

About a month ago I had the pleasure of being part of a unique event for bloggers and photographers with the Inspire Society. The event was described as an “ultra-glamorous one day photoshoot with influencer, photographers.” To be honest, I was hesitant to be a part of this even because I was doubting myself. The event was advertised as an event for bloggers/influencers and I wondered if I was a “good enough” blogger to be a part of such an event. Just like I struggle to wonder if I’m a “good enough” Mother, my tendency is to doubt the confidence that I have in myself. I had to really psych myself up for this event, and I did. My outfits were carefully chosen, and I met with my hairstylist and an amazing makeup artist in the morning to boost my confidence even further. And then I listened to one of Rachel Hollis’s podcasts on my drive downtown. And I told myself it was going to be okay…and to my surprise it was more than okay, it was a blast!

 

Photo: Cassie & Dee

The Host: Inspire Society

Inspire Society, is an influencer organization run by two lovely ladies, Jess and Mandy. They are the masterminds behind this fun one day event. The event was held in the beautiful Robey Hotel in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago. This hotel is STUNNING! It has so many beautiful details all around the property–I would highly recommend it if you’re looking for a central and unique place to stay in Chicago. This is definitely not an average place. Bonus: it has the most amazing rooftop pool if you’re going in the summer!

The hall was decorated with a beautiful flower wall from Lil Epic Designs, I would definitely work with them on future events! We also had a delicious donut display from Stan’s donuts to get a good sugar rush in the morning. Truthfully, it looked too beautiful to eat.

Lil Epic Designs made this GORGEOUS flower wall backdrop and donut display from Stan’s Donuts! I mean…can you even?!

During this event, I got meet 9 other bloggers, all with different styles, but all of us were able to come together for this event. It was great meeting these ladies and learning about their blogging experiences! We also got to work with a number of talented photographers, as well as, wonderful brands that were sponsoring the event.

The Bloggers Behind Inspire Society Tribe-Give them a Follow!

Rachael Martinson (@Midwestdimples), Lindzi Shanks (@thetrendysparrow), Dr Kiara King (@drkiaraking), Anne Holdren (@manolosandminivans), Megan Arzbaecher (@Megpies_traverse), Jessica Kovar (@thestylenative), Ashieka Daniels (@zuri_tajriba), Michelle Jones (@styledbymjonesy), Danielle Metzler (@daniellemetzler_), and me, (@theblissfulmomma)

Brands I Worked With

Designer Share

Designer Share, one of the event’s sponsors, had a variety of high—end accessories and clothing that we could rent for the photoshoot and these ladies were the best! I rented a number of their purses and was thrilled to be able to shoot with several Chanel bags, a classic Yves St. Laurent clutch, and a beautiful Gucci clutch! They truly have some unique designer pieces you can rent for a fraction of the cost.

My favorite though, was when they helped me style this scarf with this vest. I love the colors in this outfit and how the pictures turned out!

Photo: Breeze Art Creatives

Branch Basics

As you may know, I’ve been trying to switch my beauty and home products to safer products with less toxic ingredients. I was thrilled to work with Branch Basics –a company dedicated to creating the non-toxic home cleaning products. The company also educates about how to lead a safer, more holistic lifestyle. All of their products are safe to use around all humans, not tested on animals, plant & mineral based, biodegradable, and they work! I’ve been impressed with the quality and how well they clean my toddler messes at home. Head over to Branch Basics to learn more about their amazing products.

Photo: Jaqueline Barkley Photography

2nd Kind

I was thrilled to be able to sample the products from 2nd Kind, a skincare brand dedicated to promoting self-love, as well as safer, high-quality skincare products. Sound familiar?! This brand appeals to me so much! I love that there are more and more companies who aren’t willing to compromise the ingredients they use. I’ve been trying out the Black Obsidian & Charcoal Scrub and am very pleased with how it makes my face feel. I can’t wait to try their other products. Head over to 2nd Kind to check them out!

Photo: Melina Morales Photography

Other Photos from the Event

Photo by: Olivia Kohler Photography Outfit: Here Tee: Evereve

Photo: Cassie & Dee

Photo: Breeze Art Creatives

Photos: JanetD Photography Outfit: Here

Photo Jennifer Coffey

I was truly honored to be a part of this event, and look forward to sharing even more pictures from this fabulous photoshoot on my instagram!